n LOUDOUN
Pg. 5 | n LEESBURG
VOL. 7, NO. 32
Pg. 10 | n EDUCATION
Pg. 12 | n PUBLIC SAFETY
We’ve got you covered. In the mail weekly. Online always at LoudounNow.com
Pg. 14 | n PUBLIC NOTICES
Pg. 29
JUNE 30, 2022
Loudoun Celebrates Independence Day The Town of Hillsboro, following tradition, kicked off Loudoun’s Independence Day events early with a party and fireworks Sunday night, but the celebrations— and fireworks—will continue through the weekend. FOR A LISTING 4TH OF JULY EVENTS TURN TO PAGE 39
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Silver Line Handed Over to Metro, Ready for Final Testing BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Metrorail’s Silver Line extension into Loudoun County hit one of its final milestones last week, as the six new rail stations, 11.4 miles of track and new rail yard were formally handed over to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority ready for final testing. Before then, the long-delayed Silver Line Phase II project was in the hands of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, which had agreed to build it. During a media availability after the
Thursday morning WMATA Board of Directors meeting, Interim General Manager and CEO Andy Off said the closest estimate Metro can give for when service will begin is late fall. Off said opening Silver Line Phase 2 is more complicated than the first phase thanks to the railyard. The last time Metro opened a new railyard, he pointed out, was more than 20 years ago, and noted the 90-acre size and 350 employees at the new railyard near Dulles International Airport. “There is a lot of movement. It is a dangerous place with a lot of employees and
a lot of train movement,” he said. “And there’s just a lot of unique equipment that we use to maintain our rail cars. So there’s just a certain degree of time and training.” And with construction enduring long delays—and commuting and working habits changed by two years of the COVID-19 pandemic—Board of Directors Chairman Paul Smedberg said he expects the system will be used differently today. “It’s not going to be the Monday-through-Friday, nine-to-five, everyone going to the core, you know, or in the District,” he said. “There are still people
that are going to do that maybe three or four days a week, but people are going to be using the system reverse commuting out. A lot of people who live in the district are now working out in Tysons, in Reston.” County Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles), a member of the Metro Board of Directors and the only current Loudoun supervisor who took part in the 2012 vote to bring Metro to Loudoun said the economic development vision for the SILVER LINE continues on page 38
HAIL YEAH! We can help with storm damage. To schedule an appointment call 540.441.7649 or visit our website at hartleyhomeexteriors.com
Permit #1374 Merrifield VA
PAID
PRESRT STD U.S. Postage
PAGE 2
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 3
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
From right, NOVA Parks Executive Direct Paul Gilbert reads the text of a ceremonial deed recording the dedication of a 128-acre addition to Springdale Regional Park to be signed by County Chair Phyllis Randall, Stacy and Chuck Kuhn and NOVA Parks Chairwoman Cate Magennis Wyatt.
Kuhn Donation Doubles Size of Regional Park BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The leaders of NOVA Parks on Tuesday celebrated the acquisition of 128 acres that will expand its Springdale Regional Park property along the Potomac River in northeast Loudoun County. The land was acquired, placed under
conservation easement, and donated to the park authority by Chuck and Stacy Kuhn. It is the latest in a years-long series of rural land purchase in which the family has placed more than 22,000 acres under easement. The transaction involved the Kuhns donating half the value of the land, $900,000, matched by an equal grant
from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. The federal program provides 50 percent matching funds to state agencies and localities for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation resources. NOVA Parks Chairwoman Cate Magennis Wyatt noted the parkland expansion builds on the vision began by
the park authority’s founding members in 1959—with the region’s localities working together to protect significant properties and historic sites they couldn’t acquire on their own. Today, NOVA Parks oversees some 12,000 acres of parkland. The property, bounded by Rt. 15 and KUHN DONATION continues on page 37
Loudoun Pride Festival Celebrates Community Support BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The first-ever Loudoun Pride Festival on Sunday filled Claude Moore Park with music, dancing, and strong demonstrations of support for the county’s LTBGQ community. “People keep asking: What is pride about?” Equality Loudoun President Cris Candice Tuck said during the event’s formal opening ceremonies. “Pride is a lot of things to a lot of people and I never know how to answer that question. Pride was a riot. Pride is a day to celebrate our heritage. It is a day to celebrate our accomplishments, to celebrate our fraternity, or sorority of brothers and sisters and everyone who is part of this amazing rainbow family.”
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
The first-ever Loudoun Pride Festival was held Sunday at Claude Moore Park.
The Pride festival was a runaway success weeks before the doors opened, with tickets sold out more than a week in advance. Candice Tuck said more than 100 businesses stepped up to sponsor or be involved, with more than $45,000 raised.
“They call us the rainbow mafia because they know that we would give anything for each other without a second thought. That is why this day is here so you can find each other—find friends, find help, find resources. Find people who
will love you unapologetically for who you are,” Tuck said. Of the businesses and nonprofits that set up booths or sponsored the event, Tuck said it was important to support them back. “Throughout this event, our number one concern has been safety and security. I don’t think it will surprise anybody here to know that we have had people emailing our vendors and threatening them for deciding to sponsor this, for deciding to be part of this. It takes bravery,” he said. “These are our allies, and this is our community and they are standing up for us.” County supervisors also spoke, presenting a proclamation supporting the LOUDOUN PRIDE continues on page 38
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 4
JUNE 30, 2022
live
WELL Helping older adults and caregivers improve their quality of life.
For information on COVID-19 testing
and/or vaccines, call the Loudoun County Health Department’s COVID-19 information line: 703-737-8300 For information about programs and services for older adults in Loudoun County, call the Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging: 703-777-0257
Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 5
ON THE Agenda
Loudoun
Supervisors Launch Zoning Change to Protect Prime Farm Soil BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
County supervisors have formally launched work on a zoning ordinance amendment seeking to preserve western Loudoun’s best agricultural soils. Loudoun’s existing cluster zoning option was meant to protect green space by permitting developers in western Loudoun to build more homes than normal zoning would permit, if they built them on smaller lots and left most the land in open space. But it ended up backfiring—the best soil for farming is also the best soil for septic systems, and those clustered developments, agricultural interests have warned, end up taking up the usable farmland and leaving less-arable land. “Once you do that, you’re never going to be farming on that again. And so what we don’t want to have is to less-
en the amount of farmable soils that we have left in Loudoun County,” said Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) before the June 21 vote. County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (DAt Large) pointed out the U.S. Department of Agriculture has found Loudoun is losing farmland at a faster rate than Virginia or the country at large. The most recent 2017 Census of Agriculture found that Loudoun had lost 10% of its farmland over the previous five years, compared to 6% statewide and 1.6% nationwide in that time. “We are losing our farmland, our prime agricultural land, at an astounding rate right now,” Randall said. Supervisors first started looking into reworking the county’s cluster zoning rules in 2020, but last week passed a Resolution of Intent to Amend, the first formal step to actually changing county zoning, bolstered in part by policies in
the new county General Plan. After their unanimous vote, the county staff will get to work writing new cluster zoning language intended to also protect those prime agricultural soils. They were more divided on a proposal from Supervisor Caleb E. Kershner (R-Catoctin) to analyze the zoning amendment’s possible impact on the value of that land, and whether it could disincentivize landowners placing land into conservation easement. He argued the zoning amendment could decrease the value of land eligible for cluster zoning, and that decreasing the land value could decrease the incentive to place it into permanent conservation easement, which permits an income tax credit of 40% of the value of the land. “The difference between this motion FARMABLE LAND continues on page 8
Non-EnglishSpeakers May Face Restrictions During Board Meetings BY OLIVIA AUSNEHMER
County supervisors are considering changes on the rules for non-English speakers giving input during their meetings, stirring alarm from New Virginia Majority. The current rules allow most speakers two and a half minutes to share their thoughts during Board of Supervisor meetings, and non-native English speakers a total of five minutes, allowing time for interpreters to translate their speech. Non-English speakers were rare in the boardroom until organizing efforts by New Virginia Majority. Now, Spanish-speaking Loudouners are a regular part of public input sessions, often with interpretation provided by New Virginia Majority organizers. Supervisors are considering limiting their speaking time to two and a half minutes, the same amount of time as English
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
New Virginia Majority organizer Sofia Saiyed speaks during a Loudoun County Board of Supervisors budget meeting in March.
speakers. Supervisors had been scheduled to vote on the policy change July 5, but put it off until Sept. 20 Some told the Board of Supervisors they find the consideration of shortening the time limit for non-English speakers unfair and unjust for those who can only speak other languages. “Currently, non-English speakers give their testimony in their own language, followed by English interpretation.
The proposed amendment would have non-English speakers choose whether to either give testimony in their language and provide a written transcript for the board, or allocate their full time to an interpreter to make their comments in English. Let me be frank, the changes proposed in this item would limit the public participation SPEAKERS continues on page 7
Supervisors Approve LED Streetlight Pilot County supervisors have approved a project to install LED streetlights on six Sterling Boulevard intersections, in part as a pilot for a countywide streetlight program. The six intersections are all between Rt. 7 and the W&OD Trail, including Greenthorn/Staunton Avenue, Maple Avenue, Holly Avenue, Beech Road, Church Road, and East Frederick Drive. The intersections were selected based on night-time crash data from the Virginia Department of Transportation. The project is expected to cost $214,320, and add close to $3,000 in annual service costs. The county continues work on a new Countywide LED Streetlight Program.
Summer Wellness Fest Set for July 9 Loudoun County and the Prevention Alliance of Loudoun will host the inaugural Summer Wellness Fest on Saturday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise Street in Sterling. The Summer Wellness Fest is free and open to all ages, and will feature music, food trucks, games, arts and crafts, and a variety of health and wellness vendors. Some of those include Aria Yoga and Wellness Center, Bach to Rock, Bike Loudoun, Brown Beauties LLC, Equality Loudoun, Inova Community Health, Just Neighbors, the Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter, county human services agencies, Loudoun County Public Schools, Loudoun Literacy Council, the Arc of Loudoun and Northern Virginia Community College among others. The Prevention Alliance of Loudoun is a coalition of youth, parents, Loudoun County agencies, faith-based organizations and other community stakeholders dedicated to mental health awareness and substance misuse prevention efforts. For more information on PAL, go to loudoun.gov/mhsadsprevention or email prevention@loudoun.gov. ON THE AGENDA continues on page 7
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 6
CABINET SHOWPLACE Fine Cabinetry for the Entire Home
JUNE 30, 2022
Loudoun to Host US Youth Soccer Regional Championship LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
www.cabinetshowplace.com
540.338.9661
210 N. 21st St., # E Purcellville, VA 20132
Let Kubota Do The Work!
BX2380
• 21.6 Gross HP,† 3-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine • Category I, 3-Point Hitch
L3901
• 37.5 Gross HP,† 3-Cyl., Kubota Diesel Engine • Performance-Matched Implements Available
$0 DOWN, 0% A.P.R. FINANCING FOR UP TO 60 MONTHS ON SELECT NEW KUBOTAS!*
US Youth Soccer has announced its 2023 Eastern Regional Championships are coming to Loudoun County next June, playing at the new Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park and Philip A. Bolen Memorial Park. The Eastern Regional Championships bring more than 200 boys and girls teams in the 12U-19U age groups each year, with the regional winners from the 13U-19U age groups advancing to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. “US Youth Soccer’s NCS East Region is excited to have Loudoun County as our location for the 2023 Regional Tournament,” stated USYS Eastern Regional Championships Chairman Brad Roos. “Through discussions with Visit Loudoun, we were very impressed with their enthusiasm and commitment to making this a memorable event for our players and families.” US Youth Soccer’s East Region consists of 15 state associations: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Eastern New York, New York West, Eastern Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania West, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. Visit Loudoun led the bid process and will help host the event along with the Virginia Youth Soccer Association. “We are very honored to be hosting the 2023 US Youth Soccer Eastern Regional Championships in Loudoun County,” stated Visit Loudoun Director of Sales,
Sports & Services Torye Hurst. “This is a great opportunity to showcase our sports facilities and destination to visitors throughout the Eastern United States. This event would not have been possible without the cooperation of numerous partners in the community.” “Sports tourism is an important part of our overall tourism economy,” stated Visit Loudoun President & CEO Beth Erickson. “This event is expected to have an estimated economic impact of $5.6 million for Loudoun, generating 9,000 room nights and bringing visitors to our restaurants, shops, and other attractions. Securing this bid also further positions Loudoun as a premier sports tournament destination.” “I am confident the Visit Loudoun staff and leadership in the Loudoun soccer community will provide all the elements necessary to successfully host this prestigious USYS event in 2023,” stated Virginia Youth Soccer Association Executive Director Don Rawson. “The Virginia Youth Soccer Association staff will also lend its many years of experience in hosting USYS events to support the Local Organizing Committee and help ensure success for all involved.” For more information, go to USYouthSoccer.org and USYouthSoccer. org/National-Championship-Series. n
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE Z412KW-48
• 22 Gross HP,† 2-Cylinder Gasoline Engine • Steel Welded 48” Mower Deck
Z422KW-54
• 24 Gross HP,† 2-Cylinder Gasoline Engine • Steel Welded 54” Mower Deck
BROWNING EQUIPMENT, INC. 800 East Main St. • Purcellville, VA
(540) 338-7123 • www.browningequipment.com
* 0% Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota BX, B, LX, L, MX, M60 & M4 equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. Some exceptions apply. Terms subject to change. Offers expire 6/30/22. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For more information, see Dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com. † For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer and the product operator’s manual. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. K1157-24-147326-2
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.
fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
ON THE Agenda
public calendar at loudoun.gov/calendar. The meeting will include a presentation by county staff as well as an opportunity to ask questions and provide comments.
continued from page 5
Red Hill Land Policy Meeting July 6
Public Meeting on Russell The Loudoun County Department of Branch Parkway Study July 11
Planning and Zoning will hold a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, July 6 at 6 p.m. to provide information on a proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment at the Red Hill community. The plan amendment will consider moving the community from the Rural Policy Area to the Transition Policy Area and change the community’s designation from the “Rural North” place type to the “Transition Large Lot Neighborhood” place type. That would not change the planned density of the area but would allow the extension of central water and wastewater service to individual lots within the Red Hill community as requested by residents. Surrounding properties on three sides already have that option. Approximately 40%, 173 acres, of the community is owned by the county and is planned for future school or public uses. Information about how to join the virtual meeting is posted on the county’s
Loudoun County is hosting an online public meeting to gain input from the public on the outcomes of the Russell Branch Parkway: Ashbrook Marketplace Plaza to Ashbrook Place Corridor Study. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 11 at 6 p.m. Login information, meeting materials and speaker sign-up and comment forms are online at loudoun. gov/russellbranchparkway. Members of the public must sign up by noon on July 8 to ask questions during the event. Online participants may also send questions to the project team as Q&A messages, which will be answered as time allows. The study investigated vehicle and pedestrian safety and the possible need for safety improvements at five intersections: Ashbrook Marketplace Plaza/Waltonwood entrance; Ashbrook Commons Plaza/Navajo Drive; San Joaquin Terrace/ Hopi Drive; Atwater Drive/Lumbee Way; and Ashbrook Place. n
PAGE 7
Speakers continued from page 5 of speakers of other languages,” said New Virginia Majority organizer Sofia Saiyed. “I’m not sure it’s fair to give some people twice as long as other people when it comes to providing their message,” said Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg). “Out of fairness to everyone, I think everyone should have the same amount of time to speak.” Delaying the vote until after the board’s summer recess will allow county staff members to reach out to community mem-
bers and stakeholders for their ideas on the best ways non-English speakers can participate in board meetings and to research what other jurisdictions in the region do with regard to non-English speakers. “It has nothing to do with wanting people to not speak in their language, that’s not the issue. The issue is giving one person double the time to give us the same message, and how do we do that differently so everyone feels like they are being treated fairly,” said County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large). n Olivia Ausnehmer is a rising junior at Penn State interning at Loudoun Now.
Cochran Family Dental Welcoming all new patients!
What we offer • • • • • •
LOUDOUN’S
LoudounNow
2021
W I N N E R
FAVORITE
W I N N E R LoudounNow
2020
LOUDOUN’S
FAVORITE
LoudounNow
2 0 1 9
LOUDOUN’S
FAVORITE
Cheerful, serene, state of the art office Digital x-rays (reduces radiation by 90%) We file all dental benefit claims Cosmetic Dentistry (veneers, white fillings, and Zoom Whitening) Crowns and Bridges, all phases of Implants, Root Canals and Dentures We offer periodontal therapy to restore your oral health as well as oral cancer screening.
Conveniently located in the Village of Leesburg 1503 Dodona Terrace #210 • Leesburg, VA 20175 • 703-771-9034 Mon. & Wed.: 8am - 6pm • Tues. - Thurs.: 7am - 4pm • Fri.: CLOSED • 24hr Emergency Service
Visit our website: TheLeesburgVADentist.com
COMPLETE KITCHEN & BATHROOM
DESIGN & REMODELING BASEMENT REMODELING CABINET WHOLESALER
QUARTZ & GRANITE COUNTERTOPS FABRICATION & INSTALLATION 4.9
74 GOOGLE REVIEWS
22446 DAVIS DRIVE #109 STERLING, VA 20164
2 WEEKS CABINET TURNAROUND, NEXT DAY COUNTERTOP INSTALL
FREE ESTIMATE
703.956.9470 WWW.GRANITECENTERVA.COM
LoudounNow
W I N N E R
LOUDOUN’S
FAVORITE 2018
July 4th Celebration
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 8
Kroboth Promoted to Assistant County Administrator LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
TRUMAN AT DODONA MANOR ★★★★
RAIN OR SHINE FREE OUTDOOR EVENT Dodona Manor • Leesburg, Virginia Monday, July 4, 2022 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
After the Leesburg Parade, join us on the grounds of historic Dodona Manor for a community-focused, patriotic salute to our nation. Don’t miss the reenactment of President Truman’s July 4, 1950 visit to Leesburg. Refreshments • Ice cream • Open house • Free parking at the Loudoun County Government Garage
georgecmarshall.org/events
★★★★
JUNE 30, 2022
Longtime Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure Director Joe Kroboth has been promoted to assistant county administrator. Kroboth has long had an outsized impact in Loudoun County government—as director of the construction department since 2013, he oversaw the county’s capital budget and road work, and more recently he oversaw the county’s land use planning as interim director of the Department of Planning and Zoning. “Joe is a proven leader who has demonstrated exceptional ability during his time with the county,” County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said in making the announcement Tuesday. “I believe his broad knowledge of local government, vast experience, and outstanding leadership skills will serve the county well in his new role as a key member of my senior management team.” As the director of the Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure, Kroboth has overseen the planning, land acquisition, design, and construction management of dozens of public infrastructure projects; has implemented the policies of the Countywide Transportation Plan; overseen the Loudoun Transit system; coordinated with outside agencies on the design and construction of the
★★★★
Farmable land continued from page 5 that we’ve asked staff to go and look at, and the conservation easement is, conservation easements are permanent. They will last forever. They will be far beyond my lifetime, my children’s lifetime, et cetera. The next board can ultimately just change this zoning back if they want to,” Kershner said. Supervisors agreed only to evaluating whether the zoning would discourage creating conservation easements, not property value impacts. Some argued the topic was too broad to come up with useful results—and Buffington said the language could be used to sink the cluster zoning work. He said, “there’s a lot going on behind the scenes here,” and called the language “a poison pill.” “This language is being added from folks who want to add it, who are against anything on actually protecting prime ag
Loudoun County
Assistant County Administrator Joe Kroboth.
Metrorail Silver Line extension to Loudoun and coordinated the planning and programming of transportation improvement funding through various regional and state partners. Kroboth’s prior experience also includes work in Hagerstown, MD, and Washington County, MD, including as director of Public Works and director of Fire and Emergency Services in Washington County. The assistant county administrator position became available earlier this year when Assistant County Administrator John Sandy was appointed the county’s chief financial officer. n soils so they can kill anything, any changes,” he said. “You can use these arguments, if this language is in here, to kill any recommended changes that would come forward in the future. And that’s why this is being added.” Supervisors voted 3-4-2 on studying the potential impacts on land values, defeating that study, with Buffington, Randall and Supervisors Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) and Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) opposed; Kershner, Vice Chairman Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) and Sylvia R. Glass (D-Broad Run) in favor and Supervisors Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) and Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) abstaining. Supervisors approved the request for information on whether the cluster zoning changes may disincentivize conservation easements 5-4, with Briskman, Buffington, Turner and Umstattd opposed. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 9
Supervisors Clash Over Oak Hill Historic Designation BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
A county supervisors’ vote to support a letter asking Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to designate the former home of President James Monroe, Oak Hill just south of Leesburg, as a National Historic Site led to strong words at their meeting June 21. Supervisor Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) was the lone dissenting vote. “I appreciate the important role James Monroe played in our state, in the liberation and formation of our nation, but we should not gloss over the fact that he was one of the most prolific slaveholders in our nation,” she said. “It was through owning slaves, and likely mortgaging the value and capacity of their labor and their bodies that Monroe and his family generated extraordinary, wealth, and that was passed down from generation to generation.” She expressed concern the letter doesn’t do enough about including the
SAH Archipedia.org
Oak Hill (James Monroe House) is 8 miles south of Leesburg off James Monroe Highway.
Monroe family’s history of slavery. “I know this is just a letter, but it may just be the last time that we have an influence over what might be a national park, and it needs to interpret the inconvenient history of James Monroe,” she said. “I can’t support even starting this initiative without a sentence or a few words about the slaves that were working on this plantation.” Most supervisors expressed their support for the letter, but Briskman’s comments were also met with heated words from County Chair Phyllis
J. Randall (D-At Large), who said, “if you think you care more about this than Supervisor [Sylvia R.] Glass (D-Broad Run), than Supervisor [Koran T.] Saines (D-Sterling), or I do, you’re wrong,” referring to the three Black supervisors on the board. She said Briskman’s suggestions would discourage the park service from taking the property. “I don’t need anybody, and I mean I don’t need anybody, telling me what it was to be an enslaved human being. Don’t need that for a hot damn second. Wow is right—Wow is right,” she said,
The Disposable Plastic Bag Tax Starts July 1
Prepare Your Business Get ready at Biz.Loudoun.gov/bags
over Briskman’s startled objections. “There are times you have to let us lead. There are times there are ways to be an ally and there are ways to be so far out in front of us, you’re doing us damage. This is a doing us damage moment. We want the property so the story can be told. The most important thing is the history get told.” Supervisors voted 8-1, Briskman opposed, to endorse the letter. Following the vote, Randall declared “I need a five-minute break” and gaveled the meeting into recess, striding out of the boardroom. With the vote, supervisors support a letter from the current owners of the 1,200-acre Oak Hill Farm near Aldie, the DeLashmutt family who have owned it for four generations. If Haaland designates it a National Historic Site, that will enable the National Park Service to acquire and preserve the property as a national park open to the public. The land is already a National Historic Landmark. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 10
JUNE 30, 2022
Leesburg
Mural Approved; 3 COPA Members Dismissed BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The Leesburg Town Council on Tuesday night approved a new Black history mural to be painted on the wall of the Loudoun Museum building on the town hall campus. The council also voted to remove three members of the Commission on Public Art who stirred controversy by walking out of a meeting to prevent the panel from formally endorsing the artwork. The mural was proposed last spring by Carmen Felder, president of the 89 Ways to Give Foundation, to highlight the Underground Railroad as area residents helped fleeing enslaved people find safety across the Potomac River. The initial version of the proposal drew criticism for prominently featuring Harriet Tubman, although she was not active in Loudoun. A revised design depicts two local residents—Bazil Newman, a prominent Black landowner and ferry operator, and Black abolitionist Leonard Grimes. There also was debate about whether the museum building was a suitable place for the mural and whether a projection, rather than a painting, of the image would be better suited for that property. During a review of the latest design at the June 6 COPA, three members who raised concerns about the artistic integrity and the historical accuracy of the image walked out of the meeting, leaving the panel without a quorum required to transact business. Council members supporting the mural said the artwork highlights an
Town of Leesburg
The latest version of the approved Loudoun Museum mural depicts local residents helping with the Underground Railroad.
important part of history that isn’t being told in the community. Councilman Zach Cummings said it was “abhorrent” that the Underground Railroad has not been recognized locally and “insulting” that no marker has been installed at the county courthouse, which has been designated as an Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site by the National Park Service. As for the vote to remove the three members of the commission, council members said dissenting ideas are welcome, but it was wrong to be disrespectful to the applicant and their colleagues. “It was in bad form. It was insulting and it is something I cannot condone,” Vice Mayor Marty Martinez said. Addressing the council before the mural vote, COPA members Minu Beijan and James Garofalo detailed their critical concerns about the mural based on their experiences as artists. Member Kareem McCullough, who had raised concerns about the historical accuracy of the image, said he was the one who suggested the walkout and asked that he alone be punished. That appeal won over only Councilwoman Suzanne Fox, who voted against removing Beijan and Garofalo. Several council members said they regretted taking the action, but could not support a “toxic” environment on the advisory panel. “The Commission on Public Art should be one of the most joyful commissions we have in town,” Councilman Neil Steinberg said. Councilman Ara Bagdasarian was absent for the meeting. n
Scooters Downtown? Town Council Has Concerns BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
In late 2019, the Town of Leesburg established rules that would permit e-scooter companies to start operations in town. Now that the first application has been submitted, Town Council members are expressing reservations about unleashing the enterprise.
Bird, a micro-electric mobility company that operates throughout the U.S. and Europe, is seeking to be up and running this summer in Leesburg’s historic district. The town’s ordinance doesn’t establish the annual fee for the required permit, so the council will have to hold a public hearing on that issue. Once the permit fee is established, the boundaries of the deployment zones are approved,
and operation permit with proof of insurance is inked, Bird would be able to start operations. During a briefing on the issue Monday night, council members said they’ve seen a lot of problems with scooter programs in other cities and towns, including areas littered with discarded scooters and bicycles. And they raised concerns about adding scooters to the narrow
downtown streets and sidewalks. Some council members suggested making the permit fee as high as possible and the number of scooters permitted as low as possible. Mayor Kelly Burk suggested a fee as high as $10,000 for the permit and limit as low as two for the cap on scooters. SCOOTERS continues on page 11
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 11
Dobbs Protestors Gather at Loudoun Courthouse Around 100 protestors gathered at the corner of King and Market Streets in front Loudoun County courthouse in downtown Leesburg on June 24, after the U.S. Supreme Court upset decades of precedent on abortion rights by overturning Roe v. Wade. The Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs V. Jackson rolls back almost 50 years of federal protections for abortion rights, returning the authority to outlaw abortions to the federal and state legislatures. In Virginia abortion remains legal; however, Gov. Glenn Youngkin has already said he plans to seek restrictions on abortion access. The decision drew heated statements from candidates and incumbents preparing for elections this November and the next. Rep. Jennifer T. Wexton (D-VA-10) called the decision “an all-out assault on women’s right to an abortion—our worst fears, realized—handed down by an extreme and partisan Court that is violating decades of precedent.” “We’ve now seen that this Court cannot be trusted to defend basic established freedoms, which is why Congress must do everything in our power to protect against this egregious attack on women’s freedom and reproductive rights,” she wrote. “I’ve proudly voted to codify Roe in the House, and I urge the Senate to eliminate the arcane filibuster rule that is standing in the way of upholding the law of the land.” Meanwhile her challenger in the November election celebrated the decision, while also making unsubstantiated allegations of “unprecedented violence by pro-abortion activists.” “I built a career protecting the lives of all Americans, born and unborn. We have a duty as Americans to protect all lives, at any stage, regardless of their ability to protect or care for themselves,” wrote Hung Cao. “Today, our country watched the Supreme Court overturn a ruling which
continued from page 10
Renss Greene/Louduon Now
Protestors gather in front of the Loudoun County courthouse in Leesburg on Friday evening, hours after the U.S. Supreme Court published a decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
previously determined that abortion was a Constitutional right. Now, the Court has overturned that ruling, giving the states and the people the opportunity for their voice to be heard on abortion regulation in their communities.” Loudoun state legislators expressed outrage—and asked for donations to support Democratic candidates. Ashburn Del. David A. Reid (D-32) said “as the father of two adult daughters, I’m shocked and dismayed that their rights have become more restrictive today than what they had yesterday.” “It is disappointing and disturbing that the young women of today will now have fewer rights than their mothers or grandmothers. Never in the history of our republic has a Supreme Court taken away individual rights and freedoms, until today,” he stated. “On behalf of all the
women of the Commonwealth, am 100% committed to maintaining access to the full spectrum of reproductive healthcare choices, including abortion.” “A Republican-packed Supreme Court, who perjured themselves during their confirmation hearings, has upended constitutional integrity in judicial review,” he added. The exception was Del. Dave A. LaRock (R-33), Loudoun’s lone Republican state legislator, who celebrated the decision and called for laws banning abortion in Virginia. “Today, June 24th, 2022 marks an end of Supreme Court-imposed abortion law; that is a giant step forward. Hopefully, today also marks the beginning of a time in Virginia where the rights of the unborn are given the protection they deserve,” he wrote. n
Celebrating 30 Years in the Garden Members of the Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardener program gathered at their Ida Lee Park demonstration garden earlier this month to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the—literally— groundbreaking project. Since 1992, the trained volunteers have educated the public about gardening techniques through their Demonstration Garden, while also raising thousands of pounds of fresh produce to be donated to
Scooters
the Loudoun Hunger Relief food pantry. Master Gardeners volunteer in the garden and answer horticultural questions from the public. Community members may visit the garden, located just east of the recreation center, at any time to learn more about gardening and to check out the raised vegetable beds, fruit trees, bulbs and ornamentals. Learn more at loudouncountymastergardeners.org/demonstration-garden. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Members of the VCE Master Gardener program unveil a new sign for their Demonstration Garden during a June 15 celebration of the project’s 30th anniversary.
“I don’t think this is appropriate to be in the historic district. I don’t think our streets are wide enough. I think there is a lot of traffic. I think this is an accident waiting to happen,” she said. However, Town Attorney Christopher P. Spera cautioned the council to not unduly restrict a business that otherwise complies with the ordinance and the state code. He suggested the town first collect data from the operation, perhaps in a pilot program status, and then determine if additional restrictions are needed. Councilman Zach Cummings, a candidate for the 13th District state senate seat next year, said the problem stems from the General Assembly’s 2019 action that required localities to establish ordinances for shared bicycle and scooter programs by Jan. 1, 2020, or surrender the authority to regulate them at all. “This is just another example of the Dillion Rule and the legislature forcing their thoughts and their ideas on local municipalities where they shouldn’t be. There is no reason that the state legislature should push us or any municipality to allow these arbitrarily within their borders,” he said. The town is likely to adopt a pilot project approach that would set some lower program parameters to start and allow the town to identify the problem areas. Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel and other staff members are meeting with leaders in other area localities, including Manassas and Arlington, to learn more about how their programs work and what limits they set. The council has been scheduled to hold a July 11 public hearing on the permit fee. After Monday’s debate, that hearing date was pushed back to Sept. 13, with a staff update expected at the council’s July 25 meeting. Under the application, the rental scooter use would be limited to the downtown area. Patrons rent the scooters using an app and pick them up a one of a number of designated collection—or nesting— sites around the area. Bird uses geo-fencing technology that shuts off the motors if users go out of bounds. According to the staff report, the town may regulate how many scooters are permitted be in a specific area. For example, the City of Manassas program has 100 deployed Bird scooters, but only 20 scooters are allowed in the core downtown. The town may restrict scooters from streets during specific events such as the Flower and Garden Festival or TASTE. n
PAGE 12
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
Education
Loudoun4All Steps Up, Schools Adapt After Summer Meals Come Up Short
School Board Advances Plans for $1K Employee Bonuses BY RENSS GREENE
BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
rgreene@loudounnow.com
The Loudoun County School Board and budget staff are hoping to give out $1,000 bonuses to all employees who didn’t previously receive bonuses thanks to a new tranche of state funding, even though the state money isn’t enough to cover the strings attached to it. With the state finally passing a budget months after the regular General Assembly session adjourned, the school division expects to receive $15.1 million more than it budgeted for. However, the budget also came with new requirements for the school district—for example, $1.6 million to support a new mandate to provide one reading specialist per 550 students in kindergarten through third-grade, just over 40 new reading specialists, which school budget staff estimates will cost $6.9 million. Similarly, the state budget calls for $1,000 bonuses—or however much is best to maximize the use of funds, at the school division’s discretion—and includes $8.1 million for that. However, school budget staff estimates giving out $1,000 bonuses will cost $11.1 million. In all, the new state funding falls roughly $3 million short of what the school division will use it for, according to the budget staff. But they say the school district can cover that difference so long as the county board, which controls the school district’s spending authority, simply authorizes the additional $15.1 million in state funding. “While we’ve provided targeted bonuses to small groups of employees in specific roles over the past two years, we were not able to do what pretty much every other nearby school district did in providing a bonus to all school district employees,” said School Board Vice Chair Ian Serotkin (Blue Ridge) at their meeting Tuesday, June 28. “…It is past time to do so.” But the Board of Supervisors has another option, which it has exercised in the past—recognize the new state funding for schools, but reduce the county’s contribution by up to the same amount, effectively keeping the school district’s budget the same but reducing the county budget by $15.1 million. School Board members and
After Loudoun County Public Schools’ newest summer meals program pickup site quickly ran out of food Monday, advocacy group Loudoun4All stepped up to meet the new surge in demand and the school district is adjusting its plans accordingly. The school system increasingly has become a source of food support during the pandemic. This year, the school system’s summer meals program expanded to include a pickup site at Leesburg Elementary School, and to allow families to pick up a week’s worth of meals for their kids rather than eat a meal on-site, after the school district obtained waivers from the Virginia Department of Education. But at the first pickup date of the summer on Monday, the meals ran out in less than an hour at Leesburg Elementary, the westernmost pickup site in the county. Hearing that, Loudoun4All organized a second meal pickup later that same day. “This was it for western Loudoun, for Leesburg, for everything,” said board member Amanda Bean. “… We were worried people would be stuck this week with nothing to eat.” She got the OK from the group to spend $500 of Loudoun4All’s money on a
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Loudoun4All board member Amanda Bean organized a second summer meals pickup at Leesburg Elementary School within hours of hearing that the morning’s meal pickup had run out of supplies in less than an hour.
shopping trip, and the group set up outside Leesburg Elementary School on Monday afternoon to give people who missed out on meals in the morning a second chance. The shopping she and her three kids did was also bolstered by food donated by Equality Loudoun. Bean also said the school’s families and principal helped get the word out about the food distribution on short notice.
And at least one family also stepped up with their own pantry—Val Esquivel and his daughter Mikayla, a Leesburg Elementary School student, showed up with a red wagon of canned food to donate to the effort. Bean said hopefully it will be a one-off event. SUMMER MEALS continues on page 13
LCPS Hosts Thank You Cookout for First Responders LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Heritage High School was home to the First Annual First Responder Cookout appreciation event, hosted by LCPS Partner, the Loudoun First Responders Foundation, and the Loudoun Education Foundation on Friday, June 24. School Resource Officers and other representatives from Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, Leesburg Police Department, Purcellville Police Department and Loudoun County Fire and Rescue gathered in the lunchroom decorated in red, white and blue, a theme that extended to the cupcake display in the shape of an American flag. School and community volunteers prepared more than 350 hotdogs and hamburgers for the cookout, which was attended by more than 125 officers and firefighters. Honorees
Contributed
Loudoun First Responders Foundation President Ed Williams, Sheriff Mike Chapman, Loudoun County Public Schools Assistant Director Renée Dawson and Leesburg Police Chief Greg Brown take part in the First Annual First Responder Cookout at Heritage High School Friday, June 24.
enjoyed side dishes donated by Monk’s BBQ and a heartfelt video where students from elementary schools across the county thanked the heroes. They also received
water bottles and patches as tokens of appreciation. COOKOUT continues on page 13
BONUSES continues on page 13
JUNE 30, 2022
Summer meals continued from page 12 “Ideally for it to be equitable, it really needs to happen through the schools, and I think there are organizations that specialize in hunger that are better equipped to deal with it than we are,” she said. “We don’t want to step on their toes or take their place.” Meanwhile, the school district is working to adapt to the new surge in demand— and the next day on Tuesday, Leesburg Elementary hosted another meal pickup from the school district and staffed by school district administrators. School administrators and nutrition staff scrambled to meet the demand, driving carloads of meals to the line of families waiting outside the school—the meals must be prepared offsite in a production kitchen, such as at a high school. Chief of Staff Daniel Smith said Monday’s numbers were based on last summer’s demand. Next week, he said, the school system plans to double the number of meals prepared for the Leesburg site to meet the new surge. And Deputy Superintendent Ashley Ellis said the school division will again seek waivers from the state Department
Cookout continued from page PB
Renée Dawson first hosted an appreciation event for first responders as principal at Brambleton Middle School. Now in her role as Assistant Director leading Career and Technical Education, Computer Science, and Community Connections, she partnered with community organizations like the Loudoun First Responder Foundation to bring the event together. One attendee, firefighter and LCPS alumnus Jake Park, attended the event and saw his former kindergarten teacher,
Bonuses continued from page 12 Superintendent Scott Ziegler expressed confidence that the Board of Supervisors would simply pass along the new state money. “We have stated our case, we have indicated that it is no change to the county’s contribution, and this is simply passthrough from the state which is earmarked for education,” said School Board Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles). Even if the Board of Supervisors
LOUDOUNNOW.COM of Education to offer meal pickups at more sites. To qualify to host a meal pickup, she said, a school must show at least 50% of its student body qualifies for free or reduced lunch. The school district had already requested waivers to host meal pickups at more sites, but had been denied by the state, and is now trying again. Already, according to the school district, Loudoun hosts as many meal pickup sites as Fairfax County despite the difference in population.
Where to Get Summer Meals This summer, the school district is hosting meal pickups next Tuesday, July 5—due to the July 4 holiday—and then every Monday until Aug. 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. while supplies last. Meal kits, distributed for children ages 18 and younger, include breakfast and lunch for seven days. Pickup sites are at Park View High School, Leesburg Elementary School, Rolling Ridge Elementary School, Sterling Elementary School and Sugarland Elementary School. For more help with food, Loudoun’s hunger nonprofits have launched a central online resource available in multiple languages, loudounfeeds.org. n Emily Dubnowski, and his former principal Elaine Layman, both of whom have continued their education careers with LCPS in administrative roles. Dawson announced that in partnership with the Loudoun First Responder Foundation and the Loudoun Education Foundation, the event will become an annual tradition of Loudoun County Public Schools gratitude to the law enforcement and emergency responder community. Superintendent Scott Ziegler thanked the first responders for their support of students both in and out of the classroom. Meanwhile, Heritage High School Principal Jeff Adam manned the grill. n simply passes on the state money, Chief Financial Officer Sharon Willoughby said, there is still some uncertainty on the exact bonus amount as staff members work to hash out the details. Worst case scenario—with only the $8.1 million the state provided for bonuses—would be $500 bonuses, she said. If the Board does not pass along any additional funding the School Board will be back at work on the budget chopping off an $18 million funding shortfall. The Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the new state funding on July 19. n
PAGE 13
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 14
JUNE 30, 2022
SAFETY Briefs
Public Safety
Judge Declines to Hear Appeal in CA’s Office Removal Order BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@louduonnow.com
The appeal by Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj to a June 9 order removing her office from prosecuting a burglary suspect will not be heard in Circuit Court, leaving her Supreme Court petition as the only avenue to reverse that action. Judge James E. Plowman ordered the removal on June 9 after alleging that an assistant prosecutor made misleading statements regarding the case against Kevin E. Valle to win support for a plea agreement. Valle was charged with two felonies and three misdemeanors stemming from a spree of break-ins that happened May 18, 2021, in which two men were accused of smashing the glass doors of Sterling APPEAL DENIED continues on page 15
Loudoun Now file photo
Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj.
Robbery Suspect Tased at Claude Moore Pool A 26-year-old Sterling man faces multiple charges following a Saturday afternoon altercation at the Claude Moore Park Recreation Center. According to the report, deputies were called to the pool area at 5:20 p.m. June 25 for a report of a fight. They found an intoxicated male attempting to assault another individual. The man failed to comply with the deputies’ commands to stop, pulled off his belt and “held it in an aggressive manner, and approached two deputies.” A Taser was deployed by one of the deputies. Two victims who had previously left the scene reported that the man approached them while they were walking and demanded their wallets, phone, and glasses. Edwin G. Amaya Ramos was charged with two counts of SAFETY BRIEFS continues on page 15
FUN AT THE BRANCH!
BRING THIS AD TO THE BRANCH AND GET 1 HOUR OF FREE BOWLING AND 6 FREE SHOE RENTALS! Valid Monday through Friday, use by August 31st
JUNE 30, 2022
SAFETY Briefs continued from page 14
attempted robbery, three counts of Assault on law enforcement, obstructing justice, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. He was held without bond at the Adult Detention Center.
Teen Charged for Biting Deputy An 18-year-old from Sterling has been charged with two counts felony assault on law enforcement and one of obstructing justice after deputies say she bit one of them. According to the Sheriff’s Office report, around 9 p.m. Monday deputies were at a residence in the 100 block of Hamilton Road responding to a call for service when a resident jumped on two deputies, biting one of them. Balsama Al Qassab was taken to Loudoun County Adult Detention Center where she was held without bond.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
Leesburg Police Investigate Hotel Holdup The Leesburg Police Department is investigating an armed robbery that occurred last week at the Best Western Leesburg Hotel & Conference Center. At approximately 12:58 a.m. June 22, Leesburg Police dispatchers received a call about an armed robbery at 726 E. Market St. The suspect, armed with a handgun, entered the business, demanded money, and fled the scene with cash. The suspect is described as an older Black male, approximately 6 feet tall,
PAGE 15
with a skinny build, baggy clothing, wearing a mask – possibly a ski mask. The Fairfax County Police Department and the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the search for the suspect, who remains at large. Anyone who has not already spoken with law enforcement and has information about this incident is asked to contact Detective M. Taylor at 703-771-4500 or mtaylor1@leesburgva.gov. Those wishing to remain anonymous, may call the Leesburg Crime Line at 703443-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent using TIPSUBMIT via text. Text
Leesburg Police Photo
Investigator release video images of the suspect in June 22 robbery at the Best Western Hotel.
274637 (CRIMES) and begin your message with LPDTIP. n
Appeal denied continued from page 14 businesses and stealing cash registers and other items. While the felony charges carry penalties of one to 20 years in prison, the agreement sought a six-month active sentence. Plowman objected to not being informed that the suspect was facing additional charges—and had pleaded guilty to some—in other jurisdictions. Biberaj said some of those actions happened after the plea agreement was drafted and denied the office was attempting to mislead the court. She filed a motion to have the removal order reconsidered, but in a brief June 23 status hearing on the case, Judge James P. Fisher said that would not happen. He said the reconsideration motion only could be heard by Plowman, but Plowman in his order also recused himself from further action in the case. Plowman had appointed Fauquier County prosecutors to take over the case. Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney Scott C. Hook was present at the June 23 hearing and requested more time to review the facts of the case. An Aug. 18 hearing date was scheduled. Biberaj has filed a writ of mandamus with the Supreme Court of Virginia asking the justices to find that Plowman lacked statutory authority to unilaterally remove her office from the case without notice or a hearing. The court may take up that petition at its discretion. n
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Custom Pet Protection With Our Boundary Plus® Family of Products At Invisible Fence® Brand, we’ve pioneered and modernized the pet containment industry by providing you with a customized outdoor solution and training designed specifically for your home and your pet’s needs. The result? Complete confidence in your pet’s safety both indoors and outdoors.
SAVE $150 Outdoor Solution 703-968-6500 InvisibleFence.com ©2022 Radio Systems Corp. All Rights Reserved. *Limited time offer valid on new professionally installed Boundary Plus pet fence. Offer may not be combined with other discounts, promotions, coupons or previous purchases. Valid only at participating Authorized Dealers.
PAGE 16
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
Nonprofit
Blue Ridge Hospice Announces Free 24-Hour Support Line LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Blue Ridge Hospice has announced the launch of a 24/7/365 toll-free support line, at 1-833-898-0714 or 540-313-9230 local. Healthcare providers, case managers, nursing home staff, patients, and patients’ caregivers or families may use the line to make referrals or get someone admitted when the time is right for hospice. “A common misconception about Blue Ridge Hospice is that we only operate during regular doctor’s office business hours—that’s not true,” said Chief Business Development Officer Jason Parsons. “We are available around the clock, 365 days a year. Day or night, someone right here in the northern Shenandoah Valley— and not at a call center a thousand miles away—will answer your call and assist you if you pick up the phone and reach out.” The support line is intended to get patients admitted to hospice sooner and faster. It’s also meant to convey and reinforce the message that anyone can refer a patient to hospice. “Another common misconception about hospice is that a physician has to refer a patient to hospice,” said Clinical Manager of Admissions Nancy Morse. “Even medical professionals don’t always realize that literally anyone can refer someone to hospice. If you are thinking about us, call us. You don’t even have to be sure whether the patient or your loved one is eligible for hospice—we’ll help
Contributed
Blue Ridge Hospice Chief Clinical Officer Jennifer Martin.
you sort that out. It’s our job.” “Fact is that 39% of Blue Ridge Hospice’s patients are in our care for only seven days or fewer. Similarly, 61% of our patients receive care for 30 days or fewer. That is because patients don’t come to us
soon enough,” said Chief Clinical Officer Jennifer Martin. “Someone with a terminal illness is eligible for the hospice benefit if their life expectancy is six months or less. There is so much we can do for our patients and families in those six months,
but most often we aren’t brought in until the end. “It just breaks my heart. We’d really like to see those numbers change,” Martin said. “The 24/7/365 Support Line should make it clear that we are here and we are ready to help.” The support line rings into Blue Ridge Hospice’s admissions department or reaches on-call staff. Blue Ridge Hospice can admit patients anytime of day. The admission process generally takes about four hours, and the goal is to admit new patients who are eligible within 24 hours. The hospice encourages people to consider their service if a patient’s or loved one’s health is declining, curative efforts have been exhausted, their pain is out of control, they are losing weight, and/or experiencing more frequent emergency room visits or hospitalizations. “Don’t wait,” Morse said. “The sooner you reach out, the more we can do to help.” Blue Ridge Hospice is a not-for-profit serious illness and end-of-life care provider in operation since 1981, serving the City of Winchester and Loudoun, Clarke, Fauquier, Frederick, Page, Rappahannock, Shenandoah, and Warren counties. More information is at brhospice.org, or call 540-313-9200. n
Claude Moore Awards $50K to Loudoun Education Foundation LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation awarded $50,000 to the Loudoun Education Foundation to support the Claude Moore Scholars Program in Loudoun County Public Schools. The Scholars Program, launched in 2007, focuses on broadening perspectives and opportunities to encourage stu-
dents to pursue high demand entry-level healthcare careers. The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation selects and advises grant recipients of the Scholars Program, and also provides support for
school systems, community healthcare organizations and nonprofit groups to further workforce training in areas of critical need in the healthcare industry. “The Foundation is committed to addressing the healthcare workforce crisis in Virginia and the Claude Moore Scholars Program provides Loudoun County students with a clear pathway to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare,” stated
Claude Moore Charitable Foundation Executive Director and Trustee J. Hamilton Lambert. The foundation has made a commitment to foster the program in every public school system in Virginia. The Claude Moore Scholars program is in 46 school districts across the state. For moer information, go to claudemoorefoundation.org. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
®
PAGE 17
Our whole home generators will keep your power on and your family safe.
703.880.9850
THE STANDBY POWER PEOPLE ®
We Have Generators In Stock!
Generac Home Standby Generators automatically provide ®
you backup power during a utility power outage – whether you’re home or away. Whether it’s for a few hours or several days, your family and home are protected. Generator Supercenter is the #1 Generac dealer in North America. We have the experience and expertise you need. From design, local permitting, installation and long-term maintenance support, we are there for you. That’s why they call us the Standby Power People. © CHS NOVA 2022
FREE Whole Home
Surge Protector* with a generator purchase from Generator Supercenter of Virginia. *Terms and conditions apply, call for details.
Schedule Your Free Estimate Today! Generator Supercenter of Virginia www.GeneratorSupercenterNOVA.com Visit our showroom at 21005 Ashburn Crossing, Suites 125-130, Ashburn, VA
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 18
JUNE 30, 2022
Business
State, Local Economic Development Leaders: Loudoun Leads BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Economic development officials hope to make Virginia one of the fastest-growing states for business in the country, and Loudoun is leading the way, Loudoun Chamber of Commerce members heard Friday morning. Virginia Economic Development Partnership President and CEO Jason El Koubi said during the Chamber’s June 24 PolicyMakers Series breakfast that Virginia’s job numbers and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic has not been as fast as he would like to see. “We are one of the slower states to recover our pre-pandemic jobs baseline, and we’re not hanging with the crowd that we would like to hang with in terms of rapid-growth states,” he said. But, he said, Virginia is projected to hit that baseline by the end of the year, and the state’s rural areas are not as far behind as was once feared. But he said he wants Virginia to sit squarely the fastest-growing states in terms of both job growth and median income. “Historically, Virginia has been sort of
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Virginia Economic Development Partnership President and CEO Jason El Koubi speaks during the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s June 24 PolicyMakers Series breakfast.
a middling-growth state. We haven’t been super slow, but we’ve kind of been in the middle of the pack,” he said. “So getting squarely into the top 10 is a big transformation, and it’s a transformation that Loudoun, the leading economic engine, is going to have to participate in.”
He pointed to data center investment in Loudoun, the biggest data center market in the world. “You guys have capabilities here that can be sort of exported to other parts of Virginia as other parts of Virginia participate more in this, and it’s going to be
great for you guys,” he said. But he also talked about some of the statewide challenges that Loudoun feels particularly keenly—housing costs, and the workforce pipeline. El Koubi said the way governments have thought about workforce in the past have been “pretty crude.” “This isn’t just a matter of cranking up degree programs. It’s a matter of getting really, really smart about the linkages between what’s happening in our education and workforce space, and how that shows up in the economy,” he said. He said it’s one of the most important things he wants to tackle as the CEO of the Economic Development Partnership: “This is huge for us, and it has enormous implications for Virginia and our community, and I think if we can crack this code, it’s going to have enormous implications for America.” Loudoun County also has some of the state’s highest cost of living and a low unemployment rate, which Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer said can dissuade new businesses from moving in as they consider how they’ll find and pay employees. LOUDOUN LEADS continues on page 20
$150K ‘Shark Tank’ Pitch Competition Announced LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The Loudoun Economic Development Authority and Department of Economic Development have opened the application period for the annual Loudoun Innovation Challenge business pitch competition, which will award a total of $150,000. Applications will be accepted through July 28. “The EDA’s goal with the Loudoun Innovation Challenge is to promote entrepreneurship by investing a total of $150,000 into six trend-setting companies,” Economic Development Authority Chairman Bernard Mustafa stated. “Every successful business starts with a good idea and the funding to make it happen. Fresh ideas are always worthy of investment, and we’re excited to support the next generation of homegrown entrepreneurs.”
This is the third year for the Challenge, funded through revenue generated from the authority’s tax-exempt bond financing, which supports commercial development in Loudoun. This year will follow a new format, with the 12 selected finalists making their presentations at a live, in-person pitch event on Sept. 24. The winners will be announced Segra Field during the Loudoun United FC vs. Detroit City matchup on Oct. 1. Six winners will be selected. Innovation Challenge Grand Prize Winner award of $40,000 will go to the business with the top overall scores, regardless of industry. Winners in each of four categories will receive $25,000. The Agri-Tech Innovation award will go to a business developing technology that improves yield, efficiency or prof-
itability for agriculture, horticulture or aquaculture businesses and growers. The Information and Communications Technology Innovation award will go to a business providing technology that allows people and organizations to better interact with the digital world. The Clean Energy Innovation award will go to a business developing renewable, less environmentally invasive forms of power, including solar, wind, water, geothermal, bioenergy, natural gas and nuclear. The Highly-Specialized Manufacturing Innovation award will go to a business improving quality control, shop floor management, inventory management and worker training processes and designs, which increase quality or productivity. And the $10,000 People’s Choice Award will go to the business that receives the most votes from attendees at
the live pitch event. “We are expecting this year to be the largest and most competitive field of applicants for the Innovation Challenge,” Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer stated. “Over the past two years, this contest has introduced us to outstanding innovators in every industry and corner of the county, resulting in a plethora of #LoudounPossible success stories. We’re excited to meet this year’s applicants and see what the future holds for the entrepreneurs and innovators in our county.” Businesses are not required to have a real estate presence in the county, but winners must prove their commercial investment in Loudoun before receiving funding. For more information and this year’s application, go to LoudounInnovationChallenge.com. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 19
Hanley Announces Another Expansion in Loudoun LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Thursday that Irish-owned Hanley Energy will spend $8 million to expand its Hanley Energy Electrical division in Ashburn, opening a new facility on Russell Branch Parkway and anticipating creating 343 new jobs. The company first came to Loudoun in 2016, and announced last year that it would expand its U.S. headquarters in Loudoun, with at that time plans to hire 170 people by the end of 2022. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Governor Youngkin for taking the time to speak with senior leadership of Hanley Energy recently,” stated Hanley Energy CEO Clive Gilmore. “We are greatly looking forward to moving into our new facility next month. This impressive facility will increase our output, range of products, and services to our ever-growing U.S. market. Additionally, I am delighted to announce that this manufacturing facility will expand our workforce by a further 300 + staff. Another ‘Good News’ story for Virginia and
Loudoun County.” “It’s been incredibly exciting to watch Hanley Energy grow in Loudoun, from establishing their U.S. headquarters here in 2016 with 20 employees through this expansion to a new location and 343 new jobs. Hanley has been able to leverage the density of ‘Data Center Alley’ into a thriving and growing business,” stated Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer. “Clive Gilmore and his team have been great community partners, and we appreciate their continued investment in Loudoun County.” The company designs, builds and commissions secure and reliable power for the data center industry. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Loudoun County to secure the project for Virginia and will support Hanley Energy’s job creation through the state-funded Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities.
“Virginia has emerged as one of North America’s premier locations for technology and Loudoun County is the epicenter of the data center industry. This contribution is a perfect fit for Hanley Energy and its vital services that keep this sector growing,” Youngkin stated. “From establishing its U.S. headquarters and expanding its Hanley Energy Electrical division, the company continues to grow its footprint in the Commonwealth and reinforce our many industry advantages.” n
One Smile At A
What happened? Local news, online always.
LoudounNow.com
One Smile Time At A Time
One Smile At A Time
Offering the latest technologies & newest treatment optionsOffering the latest technologies & newest treatment options Invisalign™ - Digital Imaging Invisalign™ - Digital Imaging Russell Mullena free Dodona consultation Terrace SE Ste 201, Russell 703-771-98 Mullen Call orCall text us us for a for 1509 DDS, MS complimentary consultation!
complimentary consultation!
(703) 771-9887
Find us! Proudly Presents
Leesburg, VA 20175
Next to the Leesburg Wegmans!
DDS, MS Find us!
Next to the Leesburg Wegmans!
www.mullenortho.com
www.mullenortho.com
Friday, October 7, 2022 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Washington Dulles Airport Marriott | Dulles, VA
This one-day event will bring together women business owners for a unique roundtable experience, educational workshops, and strategic business connections.
Are you a business owner? Then you ARE a CEO. Join us and for invaluable content, conversations, and connections. Featuring over 25 expert business speakers.
“Absolutely informative and worth the time! The speakers were quite engaging and topics were on point. I am pleased to know that as a woman in business we have such a supportive and progressive female community in VA.”” —Rekisha P. Founder & Producer
Leesburg, VA 20175
Dodona consultation Terrace SE Ste 201, (703) a free 703-771-9887 Russell Mullen Call orCall text us us for a for 1509 771-9887
Grand Sponsor
Print Partner
Strategic Partner
0 0
embracing the power of print over40 40years. years. embracing the power of print forfor over celebrating 40 years
celebrating 40 years
CopyGeneral.com \a_alYd hjaflaf_ t khgl mn t \a]%[mllaf_ t Zaf\]jq Úfak`af_ eYadaf_ t ^mdÚdde]fl t hY[cY_af_ OYk`af_lgf t :m\Yh]kl t Egk[go t HjY_m] t OYjkYo
Purchase Tickets at WomensCEOSummit.com Use Promo Code LoudounNow to save $50. To learn more about how you can sponsor this event, call or email us today!
Produced by CEO Consulting Group, LLC | WomensCEOSummit.com | (703) 779-2694 | hello@theceowoman.com
DDS, MS
PAGE 20
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
Environmental Enhancements Recognized for Vanpooling, Telework LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Environmental Enhancements of Sterling was among five employers across the region recognized for their outstanding commute alternative programs at the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ 25th annual Employer Recognition Awards ceremony at the National Press Club Tuesday, June 28. “The employers we are honoring today have implemented innovative and successful commuter and telework programs. We hope that through their example, other organizations will embrace similar initiatives, creating more opportunities to maximize the efficiencies of shared commutes,” stated National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board Chair and Manassas Vice Mayor Pamela Sebesky. Commuter Connections received nominations from employers throughout the region, all of which focused on improving their work culture and community through innovative commute alternative programs. A selec-
Loudoun Leads continued from page 18
SCAN ME
“This board has really decided to take affordable housing on, because it is an economic development issue, it’s a quality of life issue, it’s a community issue—it’s really important,” Rizer said. “… We can’t build those jobs unless we have the houses that can support a wide range of people.” Rizer talked about Loudoun’s transformation from a residential community—with tax revenues rocked when a housing bubble burst—into an economic development success story that leads the fastest-growing commercial real estate industry, data centers, has attracted diverse employers like Raytheon, Athari Biosciences and the USDA, and, if anything, now leans too heavily on commercial tax revenues for local government. County supervisors have just begun a likely years-long project to rebalance local tax revenues following warnings form budget officers that the local government is too reliant on revenues from taxes
tion committee evaluated those nominations and chose winners based on their efforts and accomplishments to reduce gasoline consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through fewer vehicle trips and miles traveled while creating measurable and sustainable commuter benefits for employees. Environmental Enhancements received the 2022 Employer Recognition Award for commuter incentives. The landscaping services company incentives program centered around an in-house company vanpool program, which led to reductions in absenteeism and commuting and vehicle maintenance costs for employees. Of the company’s 38 employees in the metropolitan Washington area, about a third participate in the program. In addition, administrative staff who are not required at customer worksites are given the option to telework. The vanpool and telework programs have helped reduce employee vehicle miles traveled by 121,000 and save 5,505 gallons of gas annually. n
on data centers. And he said the ongoing debate around where new data centers construction should be allowed in the county is an important one. But he said the opportunities ahead for Loudoun are even bigger, both in data centers and in other developments, especially mixed-use. He pointed to Rivana, the ongoing project on Loudoun’s eastern border now before the Planning Commission. “This is going to be and can be the most significant mixed-use location for corporate America on the East Coast, if we do it right,” Rizer said. “One Metro stop from the airport, at the intersection of [Rt.] 28 and the toll road—it is everything that we could ask for, and it is the actual vision that Loudoun saw when we opted in for Metro.” “Virginia is a state where you can really have it all,” El Koubie said. “This is an amazing commonwealth, and I think there is no place that is more of a microcosm of that amazing spectrum of assets, and quality of life, and business dynamism than Loudoun County.” n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 21
Post your job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA. Regular Full-Time Positions Position
Department
Salary Range
Closing Date
Assistant Aquatics Supervisor
Parks & Recreation
$50,000-$81,495 DOQ
Open until filled
Management Analyst (Sustainability & Resilience)
Emergency Management
$67,175-$121,947 DOQ
Open until filled
Police Crime & Traffic Analyst
Police
$61,857-$112,250 DOQ
7/8/2022
Police Officer
Police
$62,000-$94,966 DOQ
Open until filled
Project Manager
Utilities
$76,426-$138,530 DOQ
Open until filled
Small Business Development and Tourism Specialist
Economic Development
$67,175-$121,947 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Operator: Trainee, I, II or Senior
Utilities
$50,000-$103,363 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Technician or Senior Utility Plant Technician
Utilities
$50,000-$95,178 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Systems Technician Trainee
Utilities
$50,000-$81,495 DOQ
Open until filled
DRIVERS NEEDED Regular & CDL Call 703-737-3011
Summer Positions Position
Department Maintenance Worker
Hourly Rate Utilities
Closing Date
$15.00
Open until filled
Flexible Part-Time Position Position
Department
Hourly Rate
Closing Date
Parking Enforcement Officer
Finance
$16.86-$28.85 DOQ
Open until filled
Senior Engineer
Plan Review
$55.00-$70.00 DOQ
Open until filled
To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs. Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications. All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35.
MAIDS NEEDED No evenings or weekends Pay starts at $15/hr Please call 571-291-9746
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES • Assistant Service Manager/Service Writer • • Tractor and Equipment Repair Technican •
REPORTER
Loudoun Now has an opening for a reporter providing in-depth coverage of government, community and business news. Fast-paced newsroom committed to community journalism and investigative enterprises. Photo/video experience preferred. Send résumé, clips to editor@loudounnow.com.
At Western Loudoun’s largest equipment service organization. Experience required. Full benefits package with healthcare and 401k.
BROWNING EQUIPMENT, INC. Purcellville, VA 540-338-7123 sales@browningequipment.com
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 22
JUNE 30, 2022
Towns
AROUND towns
Round Hill Council Honors Dennis for Decades of Service
Southern Annexation Nears Completion
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The Round Hill Town Council earlier this month presented a special resolution honoring Robert Dennis, who has retired after operating motor vehicle repair shops in town for 42 years. One of three mechanic businesses in town, Dennis started at the gas station, then a Gulf station, in 1980, before moving across the street to operate as Round Hill Auto Service. He was recognized for having “always treated his customers with honesty and respect, providing service at reasonable costs and in a timely manner” as well as supporting community activities such as FestiFall and the Hometown Festival. Several Town Council members acknowledged being satisfied customers of his shop. “One thing about a small community, you’ve got to treat everybody fair,” Dennis said about his approach to the business. Dennis has sold his shop and last week auctioned off the remaining tools
The plan to expand the town boundary to take in the 1.7-acre West End Motors property and the 27acre One Family Brewing Co. tract cleared another hurdle last week. The Town Council approved water and sewer agreements with the property owners and a resolution approving the boundary line agreement with the county government. The final step is for a Circuit Court judge to sign off on the annexation.
LUCKETTS
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Round Hill Mayor Scott Ramsey presents a resolution to Bobby Dennis marking his retirement after four decades of operating his auto repair business in town.
and supplies. After putting the wrenches away, he has travel plans.
“I have a camper sitting at home and it is begging me to tow it somewhere,” he said. n
Stillman Celebrated in Lovettsville
STILLMAN continues on page 23
Lucketts Ruritans Award Scholarships The Lucketts Ruritan Club presented scholarships totaling $20,000 to five Lucketts-area students, four of whom graduated from Tuscarora High School and one from Fusion Academy in Loudoun. The Lucketts Memorial Scholarships are awarded annually to Lucketts graduating seniors who have chosen to extend their education and have excelled in their academic and service endeavors. Rachel Berson, Sofia Hardesty, Lea Lesho, James Rollison and Natalie Sher were selected based on academic achievement, school and community service, the student’s essay on his or her future goals and plan to achieve them, letters of recommendation and financial need. This is the 34th year the club has awarded scholarships.
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
After a couple of meetings that featured controversy over its proclamation policies, the Lovettsville Town Council last week found something to agree about, unanimously adopting a resolution celebrating the educational career of Sarah Stillman. She served as a music teacher at Lovettsville Elementary School for 22 of her 23 years at Loudoun County Public Schools. The council recognized her for playing “a major role in developing not only music appreciation, but character, confidence and teamwork, among our Lovettsville Elementary School students.”
LOVETTSVILLE
Town of Lovettsville Photo
Retiring music teacher Sarah Stillman was honored for her more than two decades of service during Saturday night’s Love Summer movie night on the Town Green.
AROUND TOWNS continues on page 23
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
AROUND towns continued from page 22
MIDDLEBURG Freedom Center Supporters Press for Asbury Church Two weeks after Town Council heard presentations for two organizations seeking to take ownership of the town-owned Asbury Church building, the Town Council last week heard support for one of them. One offered by the Loudoun Freedom Center envisions using the North Jay Street building as an educational center telling stories of the town’s Black community and the Civil War. Another would use the building as a yoga studio and community center. Both would aim to preserve the historic integrity of the 193-year-old structure. A delegation of supporters of the Freedom Center proposal urged the council to select that plan to use the building to tell the stories of the town’s Black residents as well as the cooperation in Middleburg between the white and Black communities and to be an educational resource for
students from throughout the region. The proposals were not formally solicited by the council, which has been discussing them in closed session. There is no deadline for a decision to be make.
County Supervisors Recognize Middleburg American Legion
PAGE 23
and will continue to serve as the Middleburg precinct polling location during the next several elections while the Middleburg Town Hall is under construction.
PURCELLVILLE
Town Readies for Wine & Food Fest Loudoun County supervisors on June
21 passed a ceremonial resolution recognizing the Middleburg American Legion Post 295 on its 75th anniversary. In 2021, Post 295 was recognized as one of the top posts out of 212 active posts in the state. Post 295 has also received eight awards for membership, and Post Commander John P. Moliere received the Year End Post Membership Chairman Award and the Above and Beyond Award for his service to the community. In March of 2022, the Virginia State Senate presented the Middleburg American Legion Post 295 with a Resolution recognizing the many accomplishments and awards it received in 2021. Post 295 also hosts the Vets Helping Vets Program, provides Veterans Benefits Services, and sponsors Scout Troop 2950, among other services to the community. The post’s Patriots Hall has served as a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles DMVConnect mobile operations location
Ticket sales are underway for the Purcellville Wine and Food Festival, to be held Saturday, July 16 in Dillon’s Woods at the Fireman’s Field complex. This year’s festival has a variety of vendors including wineries, food purveyors, artisans, and brewing companies. There will also be live music, face painting, caricature drawing, corn hole, and other activities. General admission tickets to the Purcellville Wine and Food Festival are $5 in advance and $10 at the gate and include entry to the festival and a souvenir glass. Wine tastings, glasses and bottles of wine will be sold by participating wineries. VIP tables are available for $250, which includes admission for six, a table for six, three bottles of local wine, six souvenir glasses, early entry to the festival, and other goodies. Purchase tickets or a VIP table at purcellvillewineandfood.com. n
Stillman continued from page 22 The resolution cited a long list of accomplishments, including traveling with the 5th Grade Chorus 19 times to represent Lovettsville in Washington, DC. and perform in front of the National Christmas Tree; taking the Lovettsville Chorus to sing the National Anthem for the Frederick Keys, Baltimore Orioles, and the Washington Nationals; creating Lovettsville Elementary’s Veterans Day Ceremony; and creating and directing 75 grade-level musicals for each grade at the school. “Sarah Stillman is a beloved member of the Lovettsville Community who has touched the lives of thousands of children within our community, and made an impact that can never truly be put into words,” the resolution stated. June 24 was officially Sarah Stillman Day in Lovettsville. n
for
“WORRY-FREE” NO BREAKDOWN GUARANTEE*
$
79
SAME DAY
A/C TUNE-UP
60 PLUS, 1 LB. OF REFRIGERANT FREE VA1LU E LIMITED TIME!
$
WE GIVE YOU UP TO
LIMITED TIME!
UP TO
WHEN YOU BUY A NEW COOLING & HEATING SYSTEM
(571) 207-9571 SnellHeatingandAir.com *No Breakdown Guarantee: If your A/C or heater breaks down for any reason during the season after our tune-up, we’ll refund the cost or put it towards the cost of repair. ®
© By SNELL Heating & Air Conditioning. All Rights Reserved. VA: #2705171530 ELE GFC HVA PLB #2705135480
From personalized family foundations, to memorial funds, to scholarship funds, to donor-advised funds, we can help you make a difference that never ends.
CALL FOR DETAILS!
WHEN YOU BUY A NEW COOLING & HEATING SYSTEM
PLUS, WE GIVE YOU
Designed to Serve Your Charitable Vision
A Community Foundation Fund in the Spotlight
CALL FOR DETAILS!
As created by Will and Kirsten Langhorne, the Scaffolding Fund is dedicated to helping build stronger supports and structures around marginalized and vulnerable members of our Northern Fauquier and Loudoun community.
Won’t You Join Us?
CommunityFoundationLF.org (703) 779-3505
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 24
JUNE 30, 2022
Students Lead Gun Violence Event at Purcellville Town Hall BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
Loudoun high school students organized a gun violence awareness event on Saturday, June 25, the same day President Joe Biden signed into law new gun safety measures. Gabriel Kelso, a member of Loudoun Valley High School’s Students Demand Action chapter, pointed to estimates that gun violence kills 110 people a day. “When you hear numbers this large, it can be easy to get lost and think, ‘well, that’s a lot,’ and not really think about any further. But you have to remember, these aren’t just numbers. These are people,” Kelso said. “Every day, 110 people will die from gun violence. Every day, 100 people with emotions and with things they love, and with things they fear, with favorite foods and least favorite co-workers—every day 110 people with opinions, and pet peeves, and birthdays, and secrets, and childhood memories are killed. And this is why we say lives are lost, because these people that are killed have lives that are just as complicated as your life is every single day.” And, he said, those killings affect more than just the immediate victim. “For every person killed, a dozen more are plunged into a lifetime of grief,” he said. Kirsten Ponticelli said the U.S. is the only first-world country with a gun violence epidemic. “These issues are preventable, but only if we act now. We cannot continue to think and pray these issues away.
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Kirsten Ponticelli of Students Demand Actions speaks at a gun violence awareness event at the Purcellville Town Hall Saturday, June 25.
We cannot continue to sit quietly while our children continue to face the consequences of our inaction,” she said. “The children of Sandy Hook, of Stoneman Douglas, of Uvalde—none of them asked to be the face of this movement. So if you have a voice, use it.” Loudoun NAACP Third Vice President Christian
Yohannes, a college student, said he grew up desensitized by the constant news of gun violence. He said that only changed in the past year. “It’s easy to be discouraged, and even easier to accept situations for what they are. However, some things are worth not taking the easy way out for,” he said. “Over 200 mass shootings this year—that’s worth doing things the hard way for. An elementary school having to be bulldozed because they couldn’t ask the students to come back there after their watched their friends be slain in the middle of the halls—that’s worth doing things the hard way for.” And he said the gun violence measures signed into law that morning were a first step in decades that meant gun safety advocacy was working. County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said she and her generation owe the younger generations an apology for their inaction. “We owe you an apology because Columbine happened in 1999. Columbine happened in 1999. And in 1999, we started hearing the term ‘thoughts and prayers,’” she said. “Well listen, I’m a Christian. So please pray for me and please think about me. But thoughts and prayers without action just doesn’t mean anything. So we owe you an apology falling for the ‘thoughts and prayers’ statement, for all the excuses that came after, and not doing anything.” Purcellville Mayor Kwasi Fraser also took part, introducing speakers, and Kelso read the names of 110 victims of gun violence. Catherine Northedge read the poem “Hymn for the Hurting” by Amanda Gorman. n
“There is no substitute for a local newspaper that is doing its job.” — Warren Buffett SIX WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT QUALITY LOCAL JOURNALISM.
1
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
3
SEND US YOUR NEWS TIPS
Loudoun Now is entirely supported by local businesses who invest their marketing dollars with us to inform our readers know about the goods and services they offer. If you appreciate receiving your free community news, let our advertisers know by telling them “I saw this in Loudoun Now” next time you patronize their business.
Mark Zuckerburg doesn’t cover news from the Loudoun school board or county meetings. We do. But we can’t be everywhere all the time. So we rely on you, our readers, to let us know if you know something that our readers would want to know. Send your news tips to editor@loudounnow.com. We want to know.
SUBSCRIBE TO LOUDOUN NOW
ADVERTISE IN LOUDOUN NOW
2
Loudoun Now mails copies of the paper to readers throughout Loudoun County because we believe that’s the best way to reach readers and advertisers in the county. You can show that you appreciate local news delivered to your home by subscribing to the newspaper. Visit LoudounNow.com/subscribe today.
4
If you operate a business in Loudoun County you already know that Loudoun Now’s in-home mail distribution of our print product combined with our online products provide more impressions than any other media platform in Loudoun County. Not a business? Use classified ads to sell your unwanted treasures or publicly recognize special events (graduations, anniversaries, etc.) with small recognition messages delivered to our readers.
In your home weekly. Online always at loudounnow.com
5
SIGN UP FOR OUR DAILY NEWSLETTER
Did you know that Loudoun Now offers a daily newsletter? Sign up for this free service to receive breaking news alerts delivered directly to your e-mailbox five days a week. Log on to LoudounNow.com/subscribe to start your free subscription today.
6
CONTRIBUTE
We are frequently asked by readers how they can support the newspaper and the work of its staff. Following a trend among community news organizations, we offer a way to directly support the newspaper through a voluntary pay program. A voluntary pay program is exactly that—a completely voluntary contribution. Readers who wish to contribute can help support our mission to serve Loudoun’s residents and businesses. To contribute go to LoudounNow.com/contribute.
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 25
Loco Living
THINGS to do SUMMER TUNES VAL Plaza Party: Junkfood Duo
Friday, July 1, 6-9 p.m. Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: villageatleesburg.com JunkFood vocalist Bart Harris serves up acoustic favorites for Friday fun.
Tarara Summer Concert Series: The Legwarmers
Saturday, July 2, 6-9:30 p.m. Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Lucketts Details: tararaconcerts.com The Legwarmers return to Tarara with ’80s favorites. Tickets are $20.
VAL Plaza Party: Mark Vollten and the Scenic Roots
Saturday, July 2, 6-9 p.m. Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: villageatleesburg.com It’s a groovy Saturday night with this folk, rock and reggae jam band from Fredericksburg.
Acoustic on the Green: Georgia Randall
Saturday, July 2, 7-8:30 p.m. Leesburg Town Green, 25 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: leesburgva.gov Norfolk-born Georgia Randall started singing gospel in the church and then embraced Motown, rock and blues. Her voice has been compared to Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt and Melissa Etheridge, but Randall’s style is all her own.
LOCO LIVE Live Music: Tim Marcum Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Chef Declan Horgan, ‘Big D,’ will helm the new Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen on the corner of King and Market Streets in downtown Leesburg.
NEW ON THE CORNER Rebellion Brings Chef Declan Horgan To Leesburg’s Downtown BY JAN MERCKER
Is Leesburg ready for its first celebrity chef? With “Hell’s Kitchen” finalist Declan Horgan at the helm, Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen opens this month in the heart of downtown Leesburg. And if the social media buzz is any indication, Horgan’s local fanbase is more than ready. The 6’3”, 300-pound Horgan, known as Big D, made a splash on the Food Network’s “Guy’s Grocery Games” in 2019 and went on to showcase his big personality (and finish third) on Season 19 of “Hell’s Kitchen,” which aired in early
2021. With more than 77,000 followers on Instagram, Horgan is on a mission to create great American dishes, with a focus on quality without the fluff. “I trained in Michelin-star restaurants, and I know looking at the food that this person’s going to McDonald’s after this– it’s so small,” he said. “I want to increase the flavor of dishes, but I don’t want any of the frou-frou. … I like good hearty food, but I don’t like it to come out of a packet. Everything is from scratch in this kitchen.” Horgan specializes in smoked meats and handmade sauces (barbecue sauce is a favorite, and he’s also working on a home-
made version of Sriracha). He’s working with farm-to-table guru Eric Hilgartener of Upperville-based Village Cheeseworks to connect with local producers. “Once we get rolling, we’re going to be sourcing from the local area as much as possible,” he said. Horgan said he has plans for “off the chain” twists on American classics like burgers, wings and steaks and is already making plans to dry age local heritage meats with bourbon infusions for signature dishes. The bourbon side of the equation REBELLION continues on page 26
Friday, July 1, 5 p.m. Hillsborough Vineyards, 36716 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro Details: hillsboroughwine.com Kick off the holiday weekend with great country tunes from a LoCo cowboy.
Live Music: Eli Cook
Friday, July 1, 5:30 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Cook blends blues, rock and grunge for a gritty and electrifying sound.
Live Music; Summer and Eric
Friday, July 1, 5:30 p.m. Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com This DMV duo plays a fun, eclectic and unexpected mix of music from the past and present, as well as original tunes.
Live Music: Benton and McKay
Friday, July 1, 6 p.m. Loudoun Brewing Company, 310 E. Market St., Leesburg Details: loudounbrewing.com Ryan Benton and Casey McKay return to LBC for a fun First Friday evening.
THINGS TO DO continues on page 27
PAGE 26
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
Rebellion continued from page 25 comes from restaurant owners Brent McCaslin and Joel Griffin. McCaslin, who lives near Leesburg, is also the restaurant’s general manager and shares both a passion for bourbon and military veteran status with Griffin, a Fredericksburg-based entrepreneur. “The passion for bourbon is innate, I think,” McCaslin said. “It’s the only true American spirit. By definition, it’s one that any veteran would gravitate to.” When the partners opened their first restaurant in Fredericksburg, they named it after the Whiskey Rebellion of 1792, a series of protests against the new republic’s whiskey tax under George Washington. Handling the rebellion was seen as a successful test of Washington’s leadership, and historians also credit the events of the period with the birth of bourbon, as Kentucky distillers shifted from rye to corn to make whiskey. For McCaslin and Griffin, Loudoun was the next logical site after success further south, with Loudoun’s dynamic growth as “the Silicon Valley of the East Coast,” McCaslin said, combined with the area’s rich 18th century history. The partners undertook a two-year renovation of the historic building at the corner of King and Market Streets that formerly housed the Le Tache lingerie
Everybody Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Owners Brent McCaslin and Joel Griffin planned the Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen to share their passion for “the only true American spirit.”
shop. The new restaurant features three levels, including a downstairs bar, a second floor dining room and members-only cigar lounge on the third floor. And the owners have put plenty of time and attention into the restaurant’s design, working to preserve exposed brick and woodwork and keep the historic flair. “For us, it’s about being a part of something, restoring some of these historic buildings that have been around forever and becoming part of a community. Loudoun is an amazing county,” Griffin said. McCaslin runs the restaurant’s bar program, sourcing rare bourbons as much as possible under Virginia’s state-run spirits REBELLION continues on page 27
has a
favorite
Who’s Yours? VOTE TODAY! DEADLINE JULY 1!
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen occupies a prime spot on the busy corner of King and Market Streets in downtown Leesburg.
loudounnow.com/favorites Voting ends on July 1, 2022.
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
Rebellion continued from page 26 program and offering creative cocktails with bourbon and other spirits and a wine and beer menu. The owners are working with Loudoun winemaker Doug Fabbioli to create a bourbon barrel-aged red blend wine. The partners added Horgan, fresh off his television success, as executive chef and culinary director in March. And for an Americana-loving Irishman, working for a veteran-owned restaurant in Virginia is a perfect fit. “I want to elevate Americana and modernize it. I want to bring everything back to handmade,” Horgan said. Horgan, 44, got his passion for food from his grandmother, who prepared old-school classics like lamb hearts and taught him never to be afraid of vegetables. His father was an avid fisherman and hunter, and Horgan grew up hand-processing fish and game. Horgan trained at the DIT School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology in Dublin and worked at some of that city’s most famous restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Peacock Alley. But the larger-than-life chef eventually outgrew the Dublin culinary scene. And he knew the U.S. was the next logical step. “I’m a big personality ... Ireland was too small for me and too cliquey. I’m too outspoken and had too many ideas and too much that I wanted to do and make,”
THINGS to do continued from page 25
Live Music: Better Off Dead with the Medicated Headsmen
Friday, July 1, 6 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com More than a tribute band, Better Off Dead comes at the music created by The Grateful Dead and The Jerry Garcia Band with the same sense of discovery, care and exploration as its heroes. The Medicated Headsmen open with the music of Traffic, Blind Faith and other favorites. Admission is free.
Live Music: The Surf Junkies
Friday, July 1, 6:30-10 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macsbeach.com Kick off the weekend Mac’s Beach style with a fun mix of surf rock classics.
PAGE 27
Horgan said. “One of the reasons I came to America is because it’s a bigger audience. Everything I’ve achieved in seven years, it’s literally the land of opportunity once you put your head down and work.” Horgan came to the U.S. in 2015, sponsored by an Irish restaurant in Old Town Alexandria. He opened Kirwan’s on The Wharf as the District Wharf revived Southwest DC’s waterfront, then opened the Jack’s Ranch Italian restaurant in Tyson’s before getting snagged by Rebellion. Horgan says that despite his outsized persona, he experiences self-doubt like most chefs, and his television experience helped build his confidence. “It solidified for me that I’m actually good at what I do,” he said. After seven years in the states, Horgan is now at home in Loudoun. He and his girlfriend recently bought a home in South Riding, and his social media fandom continues to grow–both locally and internationally. And as the Leesburg team puts the final touches on the new location, the buzz is definitely building in the final stretch. “Everybody’s going crazy,” Horgan said. n Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen is located at 1 N. King St. in Leesburg, with a grand opening set for Friday, July 8. For more information, go to eatatrebellion.com. To learn more about chef Declan Horgan, to chefdeclanhorgan.com or find him on Instagram at chefdeclanhorgan. blues sound covering everything from Mississippi country blues to the urban Chicago sound and beyond.
Live Music: Morris-Morris
Saturday, July 2, 1 p.m. Maggie Malick Wine Caves, 12138 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville Details: maggiemalickwinecaves.com Morris-Morris is a father/son duo performing standards, jazz, classic rock and blues.
Live Music: Ken Wenzel
Saturday, July 2, 1 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Wenzel returns to Flying Ace his signature rootsrock, country-jazz take on love, learning and life in America.
Live Music: Brisk
Saturday, July 2, 5 p.m. Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg
Live Music: Hard Swimmin’ Fish
Friday, July 1, 8 p.m. Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com Hard Swimmin’ Fish returns to Monk’s with a versatile
THINGS TO DO continues on page 28
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 28
JUNE 30, 2022
BEST BETS
THE LEGWARMERS
GEORGIA RANDALL
SLAUGHTER
DC TRANSIT BAND
Saturday, July 2, 6-9:30 p.m. Tarara Winery tararaconcerts.com
Saturday, July 2, 7-8:30 p.m. Leesburg Town Green loudounnow.com/aotg
Sunday, July 3, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com
Monday, July 4, 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. MacDowell’s Beach macsbeach.com
THINGS to do continued from page 27
Details: lostbarrel.com It’s an evening of MTV Unplugged-style ’90s alt rock covers from Brisk.
Live Music: Crash the Limo
Saturday, July 2, 5 p.m. Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing
This new DMV band offers a high-energy, hard-edged rock sound.
Live Music: Keeton
Saturday, July 2, 6-10 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macsbeach.com Keeton serves up high-energy 90s favorites.
Live Music: ELO Tribute Show
Saturday, July 2, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com This stellar tribute to ELO and Jeff Lynne is a
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com The glam metal band best known for their 1990 album “Stick It To Ya” is back on tour. Tickets are $45 for general admission, $100 for VIP seats.
full-length sight and sound production by top Philadelphia-based musicians. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $35 for VIP seats.
Live Music: Short Hill Mountain Boys
Sunday, July 3, 2-5 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Celebrate Sunday with old-time picking and singing from a local favorite.
Live Music: DC Transit
Monday, July 4, 5:30-9 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macsbeach.com Keep the Independence Day party going with highenergy dance tunes from DC Transit.
Live Music: Slaughter Sunday, July 3, 8 p.m.
The Town of Leesburg’s Award Winning Free Summer Concert Series
2022
Town Green 25 West Market Street Official Radio & Social Media Partner
Presents:
Official Media Partner
“One of the Summer’s best concert lineups.” -The Washington Post Washingtonian Magazine’s Best Bet for Summer Concerts.
Georgia Randall Saturday, July 2 7:00 - 8:30 pm Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended. No smoking, alcoholic beverages, or pets allowed. In case of inclement weather, the show will be cancelled. For more information, visit www.idalee.org
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 29
Unlikely Pair Makes Cuts a Path in Ice Skating Dance BY NICK CHESHIRE
After eight months of dedicated practice at Leesburg’s ION International Training Center, an unlikely pairing between 18-year-old Nikita Sosnenko and 15-year-old Harlow Stanley has blossomed into a talented junior ice skating dance team with loads of potential. Just eight months ago, Sosnenko—a Ukrainian native and lifelong resident— moved to the United States to pursue an opportunity to train with premier coaches and talent from around the world here in Loudoun County. A skater since the age of four, he switched from freestyle skating to ice dance at the age of 13. He saw the move to the United States and the chance to skate with Stanley as “an opportunity to become a great team.” Stanley, born in Denver where she spent the early portion of her childhood, relocated to Loudoun County nearly 10 years ago. A skater since the age of four like her partner, she only recently transitioned from freestyle skating to ice dance, around the time Sosnenko moved to the area. Her Mexican heritage gives the team
the distinction of representing Mexico in International Skating Union events. “At first, it was very difficult,” Stanley said. “There was a big difference in age and culture.” They attend Riverside High School in Lansdowne, and despite their differences, the two have many things in common. Sosnenko is working to learn Spanish, which will be his fourth language, while Stanley is a member of the Hispanic Honor Society. They also both enjoy loud music and bike rides, but most importantly, they both love their sport and are committed to giving it their best every day. Thanks to WISA Ice Dance Academy and coaches Elena Novak and Alexie Kiliakov, Sosnenko and Stanley have worked since late 2021 to build their chemistry as a team, on and off the ice. Having many coaches from diverse backgrounds and different countries has benefitted the team. “They have different views,” Sosnenko said. “They help us fix things in different ways.” Both attribute much of what they’ve learned not only to the coaches, but to the teams and the entirety of the WISA
organization at the ION Training Center. “We have the opportunity to train with so many amazing teams at ION,” Sosnenko said. The team began competing in May, with their first competition taking place in Mexico. Now, they are preparing for an international competition in Dallas in July, where they will be the only Latin American team in the field. These competitions culminate in the ISU Grand Prix in late August, a prestigious series of events that runs through December, where Sosnenko and Stanley hope to shine on the
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Case No.:
Case No.:
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104
CL21004658-00 LOUDOUN COUNTY Circuit Court
18 East Market St., Leesburg VA 20176 Kimdara, LLC v Kevin Falkner, et al. The object of this suit is to seek monetary relief and equitable relief to address the wrongdoings of Defendants.
6/16, 6/23, 6/30 & 7/7/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Virginia Code § 8.01-316 Case No.:
JJ046340-01-03
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Virginia Code § 8.01-316, 317, 20-104
CJ22-17
LOUDOUN COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT 18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176 Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Melanie Healey The object of this suit is to hear an appeal of Dispositional Order entered in the Loudoun County Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Madison Bartlett. It is ORDERED Unknown Father appear at the above-named court and protect his or her interests on or before August 1 – 4 at 10:00 a.m. 6/30, 7/7, 7/14 & 7/21/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Virginia Code § 8.01-316
LOUDOUN COUNTY JUVENILE AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS DISTRICT COURT 18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176
Case No.: JJJ045837-02-00; JJ045838-02-00; JJ045839-02-00; JJ045840-02-00; JJ04584102-00; JJ045842-02-00 Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Jason Tucker & Kelly Scott
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Zubayer Rafik Ekren, Sumeyyah Nadiya Ekren, Asiyeh Hanan Ekren, Khadija Ulka Ekren, Fatima Zahra Ekren and Osama Othman Ekren
The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Zarabella Tucker.
Contributed
Nick Cheshire is a student at Virginia Tech interning at Loudoun Now.
Legal Notices
It is ORDERED that Kevin Falkner appear at the above-named court and protect his interests on or before August 5, 2022 @ 10:00 a.m.
18-year-old Nikita Sosnenko and 15-year-old Harlow Stanley have made an unlikely—but talented—pair as a junior ice skating dance team.
biggest stage. The sport has given both skaters a lifetime experience to learn from and be proud of, featuring lessons that are applicable not just within ice dance, but in life. “This sport requires not only skills, but you have to be able to communicate,” Stanley said. “You have to learn how to be able to adapt in different scenarios.” Follow their journey on Instagram at harlownikita_icedance. n
It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Jason Tucker, putative father, and Kelly Scott, mother, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before Adjudication hearing on July 21, 2022 at 10:00 am; and Dispositional hearing on August 17, 2022 at 3:00 pm. 6/30, 7/7, 7/14 & 7/21/22
Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Unknown Father(s) The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-282 and 16.1-281 for Zubayer Rafik Ekren, Sumeyyah Nadiya Ekren, Asiyeh Hanan Ekren, Khadija Ulka Ekren, Fatima Zahra Ekren and Osama Othman Ekren It is ORDERED that the defendant, Unknown Father(s) appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before July 6, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. 6/9. 6/16, 6/23 & 6/30/22
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 30
JUNE 30, 2022
Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, at 6:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, July 13, 2022, in order to consider: PROPOSED CONVEYANCE OF COUNTY PROPERTY Grant of Easement to Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative 41975 Loudoun Center Place Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-1800 et seq., the Board of Supervisors shall consider granting a 15-foot wide easement and right-of-way to the Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative through and across a portion of County property known as the Government Support Center Campus and Phillip A. Bolen Memorial Park for the purpose of installing, laying, constructing, operating, repairing, altering and maintaining underground conduit and cable lines for transmitting and distributing electric power, and for telephone, television and other communication purposes, and such easement will service the planned mixed-use development known as Tuscarora Crossing. The subject property is located on the east side of Sycolin Road (Route 625) and north of Cochran Mill Road (Route 653) near the intersection of Kincaid Boulevard and Cross Trail Boulevard at 41975 Loudoun Center Place, Leesburg, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 191-16-9866. Copies of the draft deed and exhibit showing the location of the above-listed conveyance, and associated documents, are available for review and may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or call (703) 777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).
ZMAP-2020-0012 & SPEX-2021-0020 MOUNTAIN VIEW RESIDENTIAL (Zoning Map Amendment & Special Exception)
43500 Mountain View Dr LLC, of Brambleton, Virginia, and 43474 Mountainviewdr LLC, of Chantilly, Virginia, have submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone approximately 6.33 acres from the CR-1 (Countryside Residential - 1) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the R-8 ADU (Single Family Residential - 8, ADU Development Regulations) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop 41 Single Family Attached residential units, at a density of approximately 6.5 dwelling units per acre; and 2) A Special Exception to permit the modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-8 ADU zoning district from 15 feet to 10 feet. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and the proposed modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-8 ADU zoning district is authorized by Special Exception under Section 7-803(C)(4). The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours and is also located within the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District, Chantilly Crush Stone Note Area. The subject property is approximately 6.33 acres in size and is located on the north side of Mountain View Drive (Route 834), west of Poland Road (Route 742) and south of Savoy Woods Court (Route 2290) in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as: PIN
PROPERTY ADDRESS
128-39-9805
43500 Mountain View Drive, Chantilly, Virginia
128-39-6515
43474 and 43494 Mountain View Drive, Chantilly, Virginia
The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Neighborhood Place Type)) which designate this area for predominately Residential uses on medium-to-large lots with a residential density up to four dwelling units per acres, or up to six units per acre for infill development, and a total non-residential Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of up to 1.0.
to one (1) dwelling units per 20 acres.
SPEX-2021-0039 ASHBURN CORPORATE CENTER HOTELS (Special Exception)
EH19, LLC of Arlington, Virginia has submitted an application for a Special Exception to modify the Conditions of Approval and Special Exception Plat associated with SPEX-1998-0016 (Ashburn Corporate Center L 4 and 5), in order to increase the maximum number of hotel rooms from 240 to 244 within the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district. This application is subject to the 1972 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Sections 722.3.2.1 and 607.2.4. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, Corridor Business (CB) Optional Overlay, and located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 7.16 acres in size and is located on the north side of Waxpool Road (Route 625), west of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607) and east of Smith Switch Road (Route 1950), at 44610 Waxpool Drive, Ashburn, Virginia, in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 061-37-8938. The area is governed by the polices of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type)), which supports a broad array of employment uses up to a 1.0 floor area ratio (FAR).
ZMAP-2021-0007, ZMOD-2021-0025, ZMOD-2021-0026, ZMOD-2021-0027 & ZMOD-2021-0028 INNOVATION MULTIFAMILY (Zoning Map Amendment & Zoning Modifications)
Greystar Development East, LLC of McLean, Virginia, has submitted an application to rezone approximately 4.8 acres from the R-1 (Single Family Residential) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PD-TC (Planned Development – Town Center) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop a maximum of 415 attached multifamily dwelling units at a proposed maximum density of 86.46 dwelling units per acre. The applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
Reduce the PD-TC minimum zoning district size from 30 acres to 4 acres.
§4-802, PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Size, Location, and Components.
Allow the Town Center Core to be located within 10,000 feet of another Town Center Core.
§4-802(A), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Size, Location and Components, Town Center Core.
Eliminate the requirement for vertically integrated buildings.
§4-802(A), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Size, Location and Components, Town Center Core.
Reduce the Town Center Core minimum size from 10 acres to four acres.
§4-805(A)(3)(a), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Lot Requirements, Town Center Core, Yards, Front.
Increase the maximum front yard setback from 25 feet to 35 feet.
§4-805(C)(2), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Lot Requirements, Other yard requirements, Adjacent to Other Districts.
Reduce the minimum building and parking setback from 20 feet to 15 feet.
SPEX-2021-0052 & CMPT-2021-0013 MDS EQUINE CENTER (Special Exception & Commission Permit)
Virginia Tech Foundation, Inc. of Blacksburg, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) a Special Exception for termination of non-conforming status of the public utilities provided by the Town of Leesburg serving the animal hospital use in the AR-1 (Agriculture Rural–1) zoning district; and 2) Commission approval to permit the extension of Town of Leesburg municipal sewer and water lines to serve an expansion of the animal hospital. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and a non-conforming use or structure may be deemed to be in conformity with the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and allowed to continue and to expand as a lawfully existing use or structure through the issuance of Special Exception approval in accordance with Section 1-405. The subject property is located within the LOD (Limestone Overlay District) and is also located partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District). The subject property is approximately 197.99 acres in size and is located on the east side of the intersection of Old Waterford Road, NW and Fairview Street, NW, at 17690 Old Waterford Road, Leesburg, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The property is more particularly described as PIN: 229-27-9023. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for Agricultural and Agricultural Supportive uses with limited Residential, Rural Business, and Tourism uses at a recommended density up
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§4-802, PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Size, Location, and Components.
and Reduce the minimum setback for outdoor storage and loading from 35 feet to 5 feet.
§4-806(A), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Building Requirements, Lot Coverage.
Eliminate the 0.80 maximum lot coverage requirement in the Town Center Fringe.
§4-806(B)(1)(a), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Building Requirements, Building Height, Town Center Core, Maximum Height.
Increase the maximum building height from 60 feet to 85 feet.
§4-808(A)(2), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Eliminate the requirement for a town green.
§4-808(A)(3), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Allow for a maximum of up to 100% of the total gross floor area to be devoted to residential use.
§4-808(A)(4), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Eliminate the requirement for civic or public uses.
CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 31
Legal Notices ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§4-808(A)(5), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Eliminate the requirement for on-street parking.
§4-808(A)(8), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Eliminate the requirement for 12 foot sidewalks in the Town Center Core.
§4-808(A)(11), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Eliminate the requirement for above grade parking structures to be compatible with nearby building architecture.
§4-808(B)(1), PD-TC Planned Development –Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Town Center Core.
Eliminate the requirement for blocks in the Town Center Core.
§4-808(B)(2), PD-TC Planned Development –Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Town Center Core.
Eliminate the requirement for block frontages to be occupied by pedestrian oriented businesses on the ground floor.
§4-808(D), PD-TC Planned Development –Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Access from Major Roads.
Allow the primary access to the district to be from a residential neighborhood street.
§5-1102(D) and Table 5-1102, Off-Street Parking and Loading Requirements, Number of Parking and Loading Spaces Required, Parking and Loading Requirement by Use.
Reduce the parking requirements to 1.25 parking spaces per unit.
§5-1303(A)(1), Tree Planting and Replacement, Canopy Requirements, Site Planning.
Allow the 10% tree canopy requirement to be calculated based on the land area of the property in lieu of the limits of the rezoning.
§5-1403(B) Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks Matrix, Table 5-1403 (B).
Reduce the required building setback from 75 feet to 20 feet and the required parking setback from 35 feet to 15 feet along Innovation Avenue and Davis Drive. and Allow for a Buffer Type 1 along Innovation Avenue and Davis Drive in lieu of a Buffer Type 2.
§5-1403(D) Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks, Road Corridor Buffer Width and Plant Requirements, Table 5-1403(D).
Reduce the Type 1 required road corridor buffer width from 10 feet to eight feet.
§5-1404(B) Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Buffer Yards, Use Buffer Yard Matrix, Table 5-1404(B).
Eliminate the buffer requirements along the northern property line.
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 contours, within the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District- Loudoun Note Area, and partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District). The subject property is approximately 7.11 acres in size and is located north of Innovation Avenue (Route 209) and east of Sully Road (Route 28), in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN 035-27-7033. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Urban Policy Area (Urban Transit Center Place Type)) which designate this area for a range of Residential, Retail, Office, Entertainment, and Community Activity uses at a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of up to 2.0.
ZRTD-2021-0008 & SPEX-2021-0040 1501 MORAN ROAD
(Zoning Conversion in the Route 28 Taxing District & Special Exception) 1501 Moran Road Development LLC of Washington, District of Columbia has submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone 7.65 acres from the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district under the 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, in order to permit all principal and accessory uses permitted in the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, at a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.60 (up to 1.0 by Special Exception); and 2) a Special Exception to permit an increase in the maximum FAR from 0.60 to 1.0 for data center and associated uses. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, and 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 7.65 acres in size and is located on the south side of the intersection of Moran Road (Route 634) and Broderick Drive (Route 1070) and on the east side of the intersection of Moran Road (Route 634) and Acacia Lane (Route 865) in the Broad Run Election District. The Subject Property is more particularly described as PIN: 045-46-5016. The area is governed by the policies of the 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type) which designate this area for Office, Production, Flex Space, and Warehousing uses at up to 1.0 Floor Area Ratio.
APPROVAL OF A BOUNDARY LINE AGREEMENT TO CHANGE THE BOUNDARY LINE BETWEEN LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA, AND THE TOWN OF ROUND HILL, VIRGINIA Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-3106 et seq., the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors hereby provides notice of its intention to approve a Boundary Line Agreement with the Town of Round Hill, Virginia, (“Town”) to change the existing boundary line between Loudoun County, Virginia, (“County”) and the Town. The proposed boundary line change would incorporate into the municipal limits of the Town a land area containing 125.47 acres, more or less, being all of the property identified in the table below, plus a Virginia Department of Transportation parcel identified as 35435 Harry Byrd Highway, and a portion of Harry Flood Byrd Highway (Route 7). The new location of the boundary line between the County and the Town would correspond generally to a line extending westerly from a point located along the Town’s northwestern boundary, which point also is located along the northeastern corner of a parcel owned by the Loudoun County Public Schools (PIN 584-28-9179), westerly along the parcel’s northern boundary, to the southeastern boundary of a parcel owned by Loudoun County School Board (PIN 584-38-6516), then northerly to the parcel’s northeastern boundary, then westerly and northwesterly along the southern right-of-way of Pickett Road (Route 1311) to the northern boundary of a parcel owned by Loudoun County School Board (PIN 584-38-2815), then generally westerly along the boundary of PIN 584-38-2815 to the parcel’s northwestern boundary, then southerly along the parcel’s western boundary, to the northern boundary of PIN 584-27-9883 and then westerly along the parcel’s northern boundary to the parcels northwestern point, then southerly along the parcel’s western boundary to the northwestern point of PIN 584-27-3688, then easterly along the northern boundary of PIN 584-27-3688 to the parcel’s northeastern point, then southerly to the northern boundary of 584-27-3147 and then southerly across Walraven Way to the northern boundary of PIN 584-17-9082 and then westerly along the parcel’s northern boundary to the parcel’s northwestern point, then southerly along the western boundary of PIN 584-17-9082 to the northwestern point of PIN 584-17-7032 and then easterly along the northern boundary of PINs 584-17-7032 and 584-17-8435 to the northeastern point of PIN 584-17-8435 and then south along the parcel’s eastern boundary to the parcel’s southeastern point, then crossing Simpsons Creek Road (Route 1158) to the roadway’s southern edge and extending southwesterly to the southeastern point of PIN 585-45-5313, then extending southwesterly along the southern boundary of PIN 585-45-5313 to the southeastern point of PIN 585-45-1906, and then extending north-northwesterly, northwesterly, and westerly to a point where the boundary extends southwesterly to the parcel’s western point, then extending southeasterly to a point and then southerly along the western boundaries of PINs 585-45-1906 and 610-30-6565, crossing Harry Flood Byrd Highway (Route 7) to the northwestern point of PIN 610-30-7924 and then extending northeasterly along the northern boundary of PIN 610-30-7924, crossing Stoneleigh Drive (Route 1330) to the northwestern point of PIN 585-352635 and extending northeasterly along the northern boundaries of PINs 585-35-2635 and 585-27-2235, 585-47-4718, 585-47-9130, 585-48-0233, 585-48-1235, 585-48-2237, 585-48-3337, 585-48-4337, and 585-48-5438 to the parcel’s northeastern point, then crossing Route 7 to the southeastern point of PIN 585-48-2279 and then extending northerly to the southeastern point of PIN 584-18-6013 and then west to a point and then northwesterly to the southern point of PIN 585-48-1892 and then northeasterly along the eastern boundary of PIN 585-48-1892 to the parcel’s northern boundary, then extending easterly along the northern boundary of 584-18-6013 and crossing Mystic Lane (Route 1161) to the northwestern point of PIN 584-18-9118 and extending southwesterly along the parcel’s western boundary to the parcel’s southwestern point, then easterly to the parcel’s southeastern point, then extending northerly to the existing Town boundary and then following the existing western Town boundary northwesterly and then northerly, crossing West Loudoun Street (Route 7 Business) and following the existing western Town boundary to the northwestern point of PIN 584-18-9751, then extending easterly along the northern boundary of PINs 584-18-9751, 584-19-1251, and 584-19-3086 to the existing western Town boundary extending northerly along the eastern boundaries of PINs 584-29-4402-001 and 584-29-0920, the western edge of High Street (Route T1301), and through PIN 584-28-9179 to the parcel’s northeastern point, which is also the point of beginning. The Subject Properties to be incorporated into the Town are located adjacent to generally to the western side of the current municipal limits of the Town, in the Blue Ridge Election District, and are depicted on the below map. PIN
Legal Acres
PIN
Legal Acres
584280957000
1.53
584285220000
5.08
584279883000
15.55
584185769000
9.85
585482279000
6.55
584179082000
14.18
585481892000
0.76
584284179000
3.12 5.41
584189118001
1.28
584382015000
584290920000
5.06
584386516000
0.54
585451906000
11.20
584285994000
0.91
610306565000
0.57
584182378000
0.25
584294402001
0.45
N/A
9.64
CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 32
JUNE 30, 2022
Legal Notices ABC LICENSE
ABC LICENSE
LBL LLC, trading as Lettuce Be Loco, 208 Church Street, SE Leesburg, Virginia 20175 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Mix Beverage Restaurant license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Cory Fisher, Owner 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. 6/30/22, 7/7/22
& Green 6/30 The Green Tree Corp., trading 6/23 as The Tree, 15 S. King Street, Leesburg VA 20175 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Mixed Alcoholic Beverage license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Fabian Saeidi 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. 6/23 & 6/30/22
VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY RE: ESTATE OF KENNETTA PETERS RUSS, deceased ) PROBATE FILE NO. 19431
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
SHOW CAUSE ORDER
Unless otherwise noted in the above notices, copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances, and/or plans and related documents may be examined by request at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-7770246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies, or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”). In addition, for detailed instructions on how to access documents using LOLA, to request that documents be emailed to you, to receive physical copies of documents, or to arrange a time to view the file at the Loudoun County Government Center, please email DPZ@loudoun.gov or call 703-777-0246 (option 5). Board of Supervisors public hearings are available for live viewing on television on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings. All members of the public who desire to speak will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Public input may be provided by electronic means at Board public hearings. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, will be accommodated without advanced sign-up during the hearing, however, members of the public are strongly encouraged to sign-up in advance. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on June 30, 2022, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on July 13, 2022. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. Citizens will also have the option to sign-up during the public hearing. Citizens may also submit written comments by email sent to bos@loudoun.gov. Any written comments received prior to the public hearing will be distributed to Board members and made part of the minutes for the public hearing. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings. BY ORDER OF:
PHYLLIS RANDALL, CHAIR LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
IT APPEARING THAT a report of the account of Kennetta Peters Russ, as Executor of the Estate of Kennetta Peters Russ (the “Estate”) and of the debts and demands against the Estate has been filed in the Clerk’s office and that six months has elapsed since his qualification, on motion of such Executor; IT IS ORDERED that the creditors, beneficiaries and all other interested parties in the Estate do show cause, if any they can, on July 15, 2022, at 9 a.m., before this Court at its Courtroom against the payment and delivery of the Estate to the creditors, claimants and beneficiaries in the amounts stated in the accounting filed with the Clerk of the Loudoun County Circuit Court. 6/23 & 6/30
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
JJ045875-02-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Joseph Kevin O’Brien Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Patrick Kevin O’Brien The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282 and 16.1-281 for Joseph Kevin O’Brien. It is ORDERED that the defendant Patrick Kevin O’Brien appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before July 27, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. 6/23, 6/30, 7/7 & 7/14
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE BIDS/PROPOSALS FOR: BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT SERVICES-REISSUE, RFP No. 525782 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, July 20, 2022. HVAC TESTING ADJUSTING & BALANCING, IFB No. 519784 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, August 16, 2022. Solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting our web site at www.loudoun.gov/procurement. If you do not have access to the Internet, call (703) 777-0403, M - F, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. WHEN CALLING, PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY TYPE OF DISABILITY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCUREMENT. 6/30/22
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 33
Legal Notices PUBLIC NOTICE – ENVIRONMENTAL PERMIT PURPOSE OF NOTICE: To seek public comment on a draft permit from the Department of Environmental Quality that will allow the release of treated wastewater into a waterbody in Loudoun County, Virginia. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: July 1, 2022 to August 4, 2022
PERMIT NAME: Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit – Wastewater issued by DEQ, under the authority of the State Water Control Board.
APPLICANT NAME, ADDRESS AND PERMIT NUMBER: Loudoun County Milling Company, Inc.; 18074 Harmony Church Road, Hamilton, VA 20158; VA0092924.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Zayo Group, LLC (VMRC #2022-0720) has requested a permit from the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to install ten (10) fiber optic cables underneath a 100-foot section of Broad Run adjacent to Waxpool Road in Loudoun County, Virginia. Send comments/inquiries within 15 days to: Marine Resources Commission, Habitat Management Division, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg 96, Hampton, VA 23651 or ipa.permits@mrc.virginia.gov. 6/30/22
FACILITY NAME AND LOCATION: Loudoun County Milling Company Wastewater Treatment Plant; 39098 Irene Road, Hamilton, VA 20158.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Loudoun County Milling Company, Inc. has applied for reissuance of a permit for the private Loudoun County Milling Company Wastewater Treatment Plant. The applicant proposes to release treated sewage wastewaters multi-purpose commercial development at a rate of 0.0045 million gallons per day into a waterbody. The permit will also allow an expansion of 0.009 million gallons per day. Sludge from the treatment process will be transported to the Broad Run Water Reclamation Facility (VA0091383) for further treatment and final disposal. The facility proposes to release the treated sewage in an unnamed tributary to South Fork Catoctin Creek in Loudoun County in the Potomac River watershed. A watershed is the land area drained by a river and its incoming streams. The permit will limit the following pollutants to amounts that protect water quality: physical and chemical properties, nutrients, organic matter, solids and bacteria. This facility is subject to the requirements of 9VAC25-820 and has registered for coverage under the General VPDES Watershed Permit Regulation for Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus Discharges and Nutrient Trading in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed in Virginia (Nutrient GP). As a condition of this permit, the permittee will be required to offset in advance, any loads of total nitrogen or total phosphorus that are expected to be discharged in a given calendar year. This facility has elected to offset its future nutrient loads by acquiring waste load allocations from the Town of Leesburg Water Pollution Control Facility (VAN010061). The delivered load limits(s) of the Town of Leesburg Water Pollution Control Facility have been reduced in the General VPDES Watershed Permit registration list to reflect this acquisition.
HOW TO COMMENT AND/OR REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING: DEQ accepts comments and requests for public hearing on the draft permit by handdelivery, email, fax or postal mail. All comments and requests must be in writing and be received by DEQ during the comment period. DEQ must receive handdelivery and postal mail by close of business and email and fax comments by 11:59 p.m. on the last day of the comment period. Submittals must include the names, mailing addresses and telephone numbers of the commenter/requester and of all persons represented by the commenter/requester. A request for public hearing must also include: 1) The reason why a public hearing is requested. 2) A brief, informal statement regarding the nature and extent of the interest of the requester or of those represented by the requester, including how and to what extent such interest would be directly and adversely affected by the permit. 3) Specific references, where possible, to terms and conditions of the permit with suggested revisions. A public hearing may be held, including another comment period, if public response is significant, based on individual requests for a public hearing, and there are substantial, disputed issues relevant to the permit. CONTACT FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS, DOCUMENT REQUESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Douglas Frasier; DEQ-Northern Regional Office, 13901 Crown Court, Woodbridge, VA 22193; Phone: 571-866-6522; Email: Douglas.Frasier@deq.virginia.gov; Fax: 804-698-4178. The public may review the draft permit and application at the DEQ office named above by appointment or may request copies of the documents from the contact person listed above. 6/30/22, 7/7/22
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.
2004 2015
MAKE
HYUNDAI NISSAN
MODEL SANTE FE SENTRA
VIN
KM8SC13D14U695152 3N1AB7AP6FL653126
STORAGE
BLAIR’S TOWING LCSO IMPOUND LOT
PHONE#
703-661-8200 571-258-3543 6/23 & 6/30
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 15 SIGN REGULATIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVISING AWNING, CURBSIDE AND SECONDARY WALL SIGNS Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2022-0011 to revise the following article of the Zoning Ordinance: Article 15 Sign Regulations various sections as necessary to consider signs on the slopes of awnings subject to limitations, to define and exempt curbside signs subject to limitations, and to permit secondary wall signs subject to limitations. Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-771-2774 and asking for Brian Boucher, Deputy Director. Mr. Boucher can also be reached by email at bboucher@leesburgva. gov. This Zoning Ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2022-0011. At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 6/30 & 7/7/2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 34
Loco Service Providers
Legal Notices
Cleaning
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO CONSIDER AN AMENDMENT TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 9, USE REGULATIONS Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, July 7, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, to consider the following amendments to the Zoning Ordinance: 1.
JUNE 30, 2022
Sec. 9.5.4 Specific Temporary Uses, creating a new temporary use “Temporary Outdoor Seating, Eating Establishments” with use standards.
Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7920 and asking for Michael Watkins, Zoning Administrator. This Zoning Ordinance Amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2021-0006.
R&D Cleaning Service, LLC Residential - Commercial Move In/Out - Carpet Cleaning
Excellent References - Reasonable Rates Licensed & Insured - FREE ESTIMATE
CALL MARLENE
(703) 303-1364 Email: rdcleaningserv@gmail.com R&D Cleaning Service LLC RDCleaningservice.com
WE ACCEPT:
CONSTRUCTION Construction
Kenny Williams Construction, Inc. * Decks & Screen Porches * Additions * Fences * Garages * Finished Basements * Deck Repairs Free Estimates
703-771-8727
C ustom C onstruCtion A dditions • r epAirs Blue Ridge Remodeling, Inc. 540-668-6522
www.kennywilliamsconstruction.com Licensed • Insured • bonded
www.brrinc.net Purcellville, VA
At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
CONSTRUCTION Construction
Serving Loudoun County for 35 years.
Since 1976 • Free Estimates Licensed & Insured
Class A Contractor
6/23 & 6/30
Construction CONSTRUCTION
Construction TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISISON PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN AMENDMENT TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 9 USE STANDARDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF POTENTIALLY REVISING THE CONTENTS OF SECTION 9.3.12.2 DOGGY DAY CARE
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, July 7, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2021-0004 to potentially revise the following Section of the Zoning Ordinance: 1.
HOME IMPROVEMENTS BY CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS 31 Years of Construction Experience Christopher Trent, Contractor
Free Estimates, Basements, Small Jobs, Decks, Drywall, Trim Specialist, Painting, Fences Now Featuring Bed Bug Removal! Licensed & Insured
Decks
At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 6/23 & 6/30
• DRIVEWAYS • EXPOSED AGGREGATE • PATIOS • FOOTINGS • SLABS • STAMPED CONCRETE • SIDEWALKS
Free Estimates
Ph: 703-437-3822 • Cell: 703-795-5621
Decks Decks
Sec. 9.3.12.12 Doggy Day Care, to add additional use standards for this use including indoor animal space requirements.
Copies and additional information regarding the proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment is available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling Scott E. Parker, AICP, Senior Planning Project Manager at 703-771-2771. This proposed zoning ordinance amendment is identified as case number TLOA-2021-0004.
571.577.7300
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
C & BROTHERS Cristian Arias
contractor VA, DC HIC LISENCE
Serving Northern VA for over 15 years
DECKS, PATIOS, AND STONE WORKS LICENSED BONDED & INSURED | LEESBURG, VA
240-413-5827 Free Estimate 240-413-5873 candbrothers@gmail.com www.candbrothers.com
Now taking orders for all type deck projects
Doors Roofing
Yard Sales Christ Star Church
YARD SALE
Saturday, July 16, 2022* • 9AM to 1PM 45662 Terminal Drive, Suite 150 Dulles, VA 20166 Clothes, Household Items, Jewelry, Give-aways, and More A portion of the proceeds will be donated to BetterALife, Inc. (*In case of rain, event will be rescheduled.)
LoudounNow.com
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
PAGE 35
Loco Service Providers GARAGE DOORS Garage Doors
EXCAVATING Excavating
Driveway Repair
The Good Guys Referrals Available!
Upgrade your Resource Directory advertisement with an “Enhanced Listing” online!
Asphalt Driveway Restoration Hot Tar Crack-Filling
Call Susan today for details and incentives!
• Patchwork • 2” Overlays/Resurfacing • Best Waterproof Oil Based Heated Sealcoating • The Real Asphalt Preservation is Oil-based Sealer • Offering Brand New Asphalt Drieways • (Smaller driveways only) • Not Just A Water-Based Paint Like Others • We Use Hot Tar Crack Filling
Great Quality Work is Not Cheap. Cheap Prices are Not Quality. We We Want to Keep You Happy.
Paul Jones and Son 703.582.9712
GoodGuysPaving@gmail.com Warranty FREE Estimates
Leesburg, VA Satisfaction Guaranteed
703-770-9723
Loving Fence
NEW INSTALLATION, REPAIRS & PAINTING BOBCAT SERVICES LICENSED & INSURED
WESLEY LOVING 1824 HARMONY CHURCH RD HAMILTON, VA 20158
C & Brothers Home Improvement, LLC 20 Years of Experience Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling, Decks, General Handyman Services Cristian Arias 240-413-5827 | 240-413-5673 | candbrothers@gmail.com Licensed, Bonded & Insured | References Available
We Give You Back the Land You Already Own Lovettsville, VA Veteran Owned & Operated VA, MD & WV Residential & Commercial
703-718-6789 major@veteransllc.us www.veteransllc.us
Siding
Masonry
Landscaping Providing The personal professional touch to each of our customers.
Mowing and landscaping mulching, spring and fall cleanups sod, core Aerating and over seeding, excavating, Ponds, Horse arena, horse burial, retaining walls, patios, stonework, demolition, asphalt, hardscapes Also selling bulk material such as mulch, topsoil, filled dirt and stone.
No job too big or too small
North’s Custom Masonry Retaining & Decorative Walls • Stonework Fire Pits, Fireplaces & Chimneys Repointing Brick, Concrete DIS 20% C on Pa OUNT and Paver Driveways ver P atio & Walk wa
ys
Call Brian 540.533.8092
Angie’s List Member • Free Estimates, BBB, Lic/Ins.
Expert Tree & Stump Removal Hes Company, LLC 703-203-8853
15% OFF
HOA Maintenance • Tree Planting • Lot Clearing Storm Damage Pruning • Trimming • Crowning • Spring Clean Up Mulch • Roofing and Decking Available JohnQueirolo1@gmail.com • www.hescompanyllc.com
Licensed & Insured • Member Angie’s List & BBB • Affordable
Interior & Exterior
More Than 20 Years of Experience FREE ESTIMATES
(703) 597-6163
AngelOchoa1103@Yahoo.com Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OchoasPainting
Windows Roofing Basement Finishing Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Granite/Marble Installation Interior/Exterior Carpentry Crown Molding Rotted Wood Repair/ Replacement Hardwood Floor Installation, Sanding & Refinishing Carpet Installation Power Washing
Video Production
Tree Removal
Window Cleaning: Inside & Outside • By Hand • Residential Specialist
Your Complete Tree & Landscaping Company
(703) 356-4459
Tree Removal • Lot Clearing • Pruning Trimming • Clean Up • Deadlimbing Uplift Trees • Grading Private Fencing Masonry Work • Grading Driveways
Family Owned & Operated | Licensed • Bonded • Insured Working Owners Assures Quality & Knowledgable Workmanship
Family Owned & Operated
Lic./Ins. Free Estimates Angie’s List Member • BBB
Windows & Power Washing POTOMAC WINDOW CLEANING CO.
NORTH’S TREE SERVICE & LANDSCAPING
Honest & Dependable Service 24 Hr. Emerg. Service • Satisfaction Guaranteed
s
Painting
Expert Tree Service
(540) 533-8092
Roofing
Veterans LLC Land Rescue
FREE ESTIMATES!
540-668-9005
540-338-9580 LOVINGFENCE@AOL.COM
Land Clearing
Handyman
Serving Loudoun County since 1989
Gutters
Fencing
18 Liberty Street SW
Ask about our Soft Wash, No Damage, Low Pressure Cleaning using Rotating Soft Brushes to Clean Brick, Stone, Siding & Decks The Montgomery Family Thanks You for your Interest
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 36
JUNE 30, 2022
Opinion Valued Service
A strength of Leesburg’s government, and that of many other towns around Loudoun, is its roster of community volunteers who dedicate their special talents and experience to help their community. Often these advisory boards and commissions languish in obscurity with little direction, responsibility, or energy. But sometimes they make lasting impacts. In recent years, Leesburg’s Commission on Public Arts certainly has made an impact—and a positive one.
Those successes make it more painful when they stop working well, typically undone by internal conflicts or politically-motivated meddling from above. It’s not unprecedented for members of these panels to be removed, but it is usually for a failure to show up and put the work in. In this week’s dismissal of three COPA members, their offense was cited as being too unyielding in their passion, to the point of disrupting the operations of the group they helped to build. There may be merit to the claim of some council members that the volunteers’ conduct
had become disrespectful and perhaps even “toxic.” However, if they are seeking to create an expectation that these appointed advisors should toe the line and simply rubber stamp the wishes passed down to them, town leaders threaten to undermine the value of this service. That caution is important from the statemandated Planning Commission to the Tree Commission. The danger, as other towns have learned, is that if they discount the services these residents are willing to contribute others won’t show up went the call is made. n
LETTERS to the Editor Town COLAs Editor: This month, the Leesburg Town Council approved automatic pay increases for itself, to be equal to any Cost of Living Adjustment it approves for town employees (Council Enacts Automatic COLA Pay Hikes, Loudoun Now, June 23). Since the Town of Leesburg employees had not received a COLA increase since 2014 prior to this recent 2% approval, and now that the Town Council will automatically receive a piece of this compensatory pie, does that foretell, in their own self-interest, that it will be much sooner than nine years before they approve another such COLA? Further, I believe it is irresponsible and unreasonable, especially to our first responders during the pandemic, to think that the town employees’ 2% COLA in any way comes close to the actual inflation increases nationwide just this calendar year, talking about recognition
for no COLAs for the previous eight years. Only for the sake of town employees, I hope future COLAs will correlate to actual inflation rates in a more timely manner. — Rebecca Reeder, Leesburg
Toward Moderation Editor: It is one of the ruinous effects of the previous administration that the beloved American institution of patriotism, fueling the parades and picnics of next week, has been poisoned, leaving it unnecessarily a contentious and divisive topic. Powerful interests urge us to define a patriotic American as one who must celebrate and signal at least the following: angry defiance, Christian nationalism, the story of a stolen presidential election, cultish fealty to the 45th president, and proud membership in or support of the Republican party. This profanes the sacred. The American project needs mending,
and would find a measure of it if patriotism were seen instead as a deeply personal appreciation of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution and the ideals enshrined in them—something known only by those intimately familiar with that citizen’s heroic political soul. This is the difficult and holy work of moderating where there is fierce anger, unifying where there is ominous fracture. — Chris Stevenson, Purcellville
No Bystander Editor: Sen. Tim Kaine did us all a service during his speech on Juneteenth, when he described the process of institutionalizing chattel slavery in Virginia. Unfortunately, he also portrayed Great Britain as an innocent bystander. “England did not allow slavery,” he said. “We created it.” This is politically popular, but it ignores two glaring realities. First, Virginia was inhabited by British subjects, whose laws had to be approved by the British
parliament, and whose leadership was largely part of the British landed gentry. The laws made here were British laws. Second, Britain did allow slavery. While not prevalent at the time on the British Isles (England), the British Empire had established it in the most brutal form in the Caribbean Islands. The slave code (1661) established on the island of Barbados, a British colony, was equally, if not more, barbaric than that established in Virginia. A look at the horrific death rates on the islands, relative to that in America, should give you a clue. The American colonies were not innocent, of course, but it is undeniable that the British Empire was the source of our slave culture and laws. When colonies tried to get rid of it, the crown vetoed the laws. Much more could be said, but let’s get the record straight: The British Empire was the biggest slave trader in the world and was so well into the 19th LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continues on page 37
Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor - nstyer@loudounnow.com EDITORIAL
Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC
Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com
15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176
Jan Mercker, Reporter jmercker@loudounnow.com
PO Box 207 Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723
ADVERTISING Susan Styer, Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.com Tonya Harding, Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.com Vicky Mashaw, Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.com
Loudoun Now is delivered by mail to more than 44,000 Loudoun homes and businesses, with a total weekly distribution of 47,000.
JUNE 30, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 37
Readers’ Poll THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: What is your favorite part of the July 4th holiday?
LAST WEEK'S QUESTION: What is the biggest challenge members of the Class of 2022 are likely to face?
LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 36
century. Just ask India. Don’t let them off the hook. — Nancy Spannaus Lovettsville, Virginia
Extreme Measures Editor: County Chair Randall imposed painful COVID policies on Loudoun County without any discernible upside. At the same time, she claims them to be of great success. Instead of honestly examining what she would have done differently, she chose to congratulate herself for her destructive actions. Her restrictions followed most blue states’ approaches, which in the final analysis produced similar COVID-19 health outcomes as the red states but without the financial and mental health damages. We believe that her whole
Kuhn donation continued from page 3 the Potomac River near Point of Rocks, adjoins the 150-acre Kenslee Hill property previously donated by Robert and Kristin Santone to create a 278-acre park. The property is expected to open to the public as a passive park later this decade. County Chair Phyllis Randall (D-At Large) said that although she is known for not being an “outdoorsy gal,” she understands the importance of protecting land in western Loudoun not only for conservation, but also to reduce the region’s
Share your views at loudounnow.com/ polls
approach was a massive mistake that citizens paid dearly. Her failures must be examined to prevent them from happening again. Ms. Randall locked down schools in mid-March 2020. They remained locked down pretty much through the end of 2021 and then re-opened on a limited basis with frequent testing of asymptomatic students and wearing masks (which Gov Youngkin had to fight to stop). However, by the end of April 2020, we already knew that for healthy kids, COVID-19 is much less dangerous than dying in car accidents. Kids were 3000 times less likely to die of COVID-19 than vaccinated 75-year-olds. Most who succumbed to COVID-19 were old, had several co-morbidities, and were in feeble health. Ms. Randall’s policies did not reflect these known realities. More unnecessary and arbitrary restrictions followed. Play areas were locked out; all surfaces were furiously scrubbed even though COVID-19 moved through the air. At one point, the
Rust Library was closed with the idea to provide county employees’ childcare at citizens’ expense. One of the many poorly thought-out decisions. Decisions were not based on age risk-stratification or science; they were based on panic, resulting in severe and unnecessary cumulative damage. In the meantime, schools in many red states returned to normal and to in-person instructions very quickly. No, they were not experiencing mass deaths of children and teachers (who had lower death rates than other professions). Private schools opened in blue areas (with loud protests from county and state health officials). But not LCPS. Ms. Randall continued extreme measures; Virginia ended up being the seventh most locked-down school system in the country. We knew early on, and now for sure, that these measures were all pain and no gain. All states with light or stringent restrictions ended up in the same spot. Lockdowns resulted in unnecessary mental and business costs. Ms. Randall ended up limiting our freedoms;
she did not feel a need to explain and convince citizens about these measures. Instead, she and her lieutenants imposed restrictions and penalties for breaking them. Today, Ms. Randall thinks she did a fantastic job. She conveniently forgot about all the mistakes she made, the length of the restrictions she imposed, and that states and counties without restrictions did much better. In times of crisis, she showed us that she would not hesitate to use dictatorial powers to impose useless policies that damaged the general population. She also revealed that she does not trust people to adjust their behaviors independently. People today wear masks on their own based on their preferences. Sadly, she is not going to learn anything from her failures, but we are not going to forget or forgive. — Scott Pio, Chairman Loudoun County Republican Committee
carbon footprint in the face of global warming. She said the efforts of the Kuhn family are “helping us preserve history by helping us preserve land.” “It is not lost on us. I appreciate you and we appreciate you,” she said. Chuck Kuhn said the June 28 dedication ceremony was the culmination of a four-year effort. Noting that Randall often describes Loudoun as the best county in the country, Kuhn said he views it as one of the best in the world. “We’re living and we’re driving and we’re acting in what I feel is truly a liv-
ing museum in western Loudoun. I think it is a real jewel we need to work hard to protect. We have to find that balance,” he said. Kuhn said that conservation easements are invaluable in that effort. And while his family has been the most active in that realm in recent years, he noted their work has followed the efforts of others and the work will need to continue with future generations. “We’ve tried to do our part. There are a lot of people who were here before us doing a lot of great things in this county. I’d like to thank them and I look forward to the people who will step up after
us and continue to protect this county,” Kuhn said. The purchase saves the property from residential development, as it was once destined to become a subdivision of 16 house lots. A top priority of NOVA Parks’ soon-to-be-finalized 2023-2027 Strategic Plan is protecting the environment, including actively acquiring and managing many of the largest intact natural areas in the region and restoring natural resources like riparian buffers to protect waterways and to plant trees to remove ozone-depleting carbon from the air. Learn more at novaparks.com. n
PAGE 38
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
about. We will follow your lead and talk about the things that are important to you. We are here to support you in every single way possible.” Equality Loudoun also presented scholarships to four students and its second annual Pride in Our Community Award to Connie Rice. “Connie has been a representative of our community for over a decade. She has been killing it. She has been helping the corporate world rewrite the rules around LTBQ+ inclusivity and this is our most honorable award for her years of service and activism,” Tuck said in presenting the award.
‘Balance the Narrative’ Loudoun Pride, Tuck said before the event, is meant to be especially family-friendly. “We know throughout the nation a lot of pride event are aimed at older teenagers and adults. Loudoun County and our board is a family-friendly community. Most of our board either has children, are parents, or work with families, so we wanted to make this whole event as family friendly as possible,” Tuck said. With seven hours of music from six different artists from Tennessee, North Carolina, Maryland and Loudoun on the schedule, plus a Drag Queen Story Hour
with drag queens reading kid-friendly LGBTQ stories and guest speakers including lawmakers, it was also scheduled to be one of the biggest music festivals of the summer, although latter portions of the event were rained out. “It’s an inaugural event not only for Equality Loudoun but for Loudoun County, and we took it as an opportunity—given the climate, the rhetoric we’re having right now—to foster good will and balance the narrative,” said Equality Loudoun Vice President Samantha Clarke. She said the goal was to be “inclusive, family friendly, celebratory, educational.” “I think the loudest voices get the most attention, but I don’t think they’re representing the community as a whole,” she said. “So I think an event like this helps to do that, and it helps to call in those individuals, whether they’re part of the LGBTQ community and our allies, it allow them a safe space to have their voices heard as well.” “The last two years have been incredibly difficult,” Tuck said. “We know that over the pandemic there has been a surge in the number of kids and adult that have come out and come to grips with their identity, and being forced back into school and work environments has been really detrimental for a lot of them.” But he also said young people are driving that conversation. “These kids know a lot more than we do. We’re learning as we go along, and that’s an important part, I think, of the overall narrative,” Tuck said. “This generation is pushing things forward in a way that no generation has before. They understand that equality means more than just lip service.” n
areas, and we have attracted interest,” he said, pointing to developments like Loudoun Station and plans like Rivana at Innovation Station, a planned 103-acre mixed-use development. “I think it’s coming together, and we want to, as a county, diversify. And it was no different back in 2012,” he said. “We did not have the extent of data center revenue then that we have now, but the desire back then and the discussion was about diversifying the economy, and now it’s even more important because we’ve talked a lot about how reliant we are on data centers.” Loudoun County government also is preparing its bus transit system. When Metro service in Loudoun begins, Loudoun County Transit will provide bus routes to and from the Metrorail stations.
More information, including about Metro station parking and bus service to Silver Line stations, is online at loudoun. gov/silverline. “I am thrilled the project is moving forward toward opening to the public,” stated County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large). “Loudoun is ready to see our investment in this project pay off as Loudoun becomes connected to the region by Metro. In addition, we are excited to welcome new tourist and visitors from the Washington, D.C. area to Loudoun.” The first phase of the Silver Line opened in July 2014, adding five new Metro stations, reaching to Wiehle-Reston East Station in Fairfax. The second phase connects Metro to Herndon, Dulles Airport, and two stops in Loudoun, with rails in the median
of the Dulles Greenway. Maryland and Virginia senators hailed the milestone in a joint statement, include Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) who helped broker the deal with Metro, the airports authority, the state and local governments during his time as Virginia’s governor. “Today’s news takes us one big step closer to our shared goal of ensuring that our transportation infrastructure is reliable, convenient, and capable of keeping up with the National Capital Region’s growth,” they wrote. “We welcome this development and encourage WMATA to safely and expeditiously put the finishing touches on this project so the Silver Line can fully open for customer service.” n
Loudoun pride continued from page 3 event. Supervisor Michael Turner (D-Ashburn), sporting rainbow suspenders, reflected on his service as an Air Force fighter pilot, recalling that he started each day asking why he and his colleagues were putting themselves at risk in a dangerous profession. “The reason we were doing that is exactly why we are here today. So that every American—man, woman and child— can go about their lives and pursue their dreams without fear of hatred, fear, anger, discrimination. They can stand up and be who they are any time they want to be that to feel the pride of being together with all other Americans in our society,” Turner said. County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said the board stands ready to provide support as needed. “All of us on this stage will follow your community, and you tell us what is important. If you tell us it is important to you for us to talk about the fact that 50% of trans kids either consider suicide or attempt suicide, that is what we will talk about. If it is important to you that we talk about the fact that yesterday Clarence Thomas actually said we may want to discuss whether gay marriage—oh by the way also just called marriage—is something that they will roll back the rights of, that’s what we will talk about. If it is important to you to talk about whether or not we should have a sister city on the continent of Africa when their LBGTQ polices are so horrible, that’s what we will talk
Silver Line continued from page 1 Silver Line hasn’t really changed. “It really is similar to what we discussed back then, and I think some of it’s come to fruition,” he said. He said the 2012 projections for revenues from the tax districts established to pay for the Silver Line have been amazingly accurate. And the Board of Supervisors has been laying the groundwork for the development the Silver Line is expected to attract once it’s open. “The board did a lot of work on zoning to sort of create a way forward to higher density, transit-oriented development that would feature mixed-use to occur in these
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Supervisor Michael Turner addresses the crowd during the 2022 Loudoun Pride Festival on Sunday at Claude Moore Park.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 30, 2022
Ol’ Time Fourth of July Celebration
4th of July continued from page 1
Saturday, July 4, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling
While Hillsboro’s plans for a full evening of live music, food and fun were doused a bit by a sudden summer downpour, the event wrapped up successfully with the county’s earliest fireworks display above a packed crowd gathered on the lawn of the Old Stone School. For many communities, this year brings back popular events that were canceled during the pandemic.
Details: loudoun.gov/webtrac Celebrate Independence Day with music, crafts, nature exhibits, historic tours, carnival games and more. Tickets are $5 for ages 5 and up. Purchase in advance on Webtrac or bring cash or check to the gate.
Middleburg July Fourth Celebration
Here’s the lineup of community events:
Monday, July 4, 5:30-9:45 p.m. Middleburg Community Center, 300 W. Washington St., Middleburg
Star Spangled South Riding Friday, July 1, 5:30 p.m.
Details: middleburgcommunitycenter.com
South Riding Town Hall, 43055 Center Street, South Riding
The evening starts with a children’s parade at 6 p.m. and features live music from JunkFood followed by fireworks. Food, beer and wine will be available for sale.
Details: southriding.net/sr-events/ star-spangled-south-riding The celebration kicks off with a Star-Spangled Parade with dressed-up bikes, wagons, strollers and cars led by Blue Styles Brass Band, followed by a concert at the South Riding Golf Course with Up All night, food, drinks, light up toys and fabulous fireworks.
Leesburg Concert and Fireworks Monday, July 4, 6 p.m. Ida Lee Park, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg Details: leesburgva.gov
Star-Spangled Sterling
It’s a fabulous night of music, food, fireworks, and fun. Enjoy tunes from Kevin Mac and The Homies followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Friday, July 1, 7 p.m. Sterling Middle School, 201 W Holly Ave, Sterling Enjoy a fireworks show in the heart of Sterling at the Sterling Middle School track field, hosted by the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services.
Franklin Park Celebration & Fireworks Monday, July 4, 5 p.m. Franklin Park, 17501 Franklin Park Dr., Purcellville
BRAM: What a Blast! Saturday, July 2, 6 p.m. Evergreen Mills Road at Loudoun County Pkwy. Details: brambletonhoa.com/1584/ BRAM-What-a-Blast Come out on for BRAM: What a Blast! and enjoy live music, food trucks, beer/wine/spirits, and fireworks. $5 per person for Brambleton residents, $10 for non-residents, kids 3 and under free.
Lovettsville Independence Day Sunday, July 3, 5:30 p.m. Lovettsville Community Center, 57 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville Details: loudoun.gov/lovettsvillecc
PAGE 39
In the town that can’t wait to celebrate, the hometown parade kicks off at 5:30, followed by a pool party and fireworks.
Leesburg Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4, 10 a.m. King St. from Ida Lee Drive to Fairfax St. Details: leesburgva.gov This year’s parade features fan favorites American Originals Fife and Drum Corps and lots of local organizations and
public figures. Loudoun Now honors the best parade entry with the 14th annual Patriot’s Cup.
Purcellville Independence Day Parade
Details: Email dept-prcs-franklin_ park@loudoun.gov Franklin Park fireworks are back. Enjoy outdoor activities, food and beverages while patriotic music plays during the fireworks.
Fifth of July Fireworks
Blue Ridge Middle School to Main St., Purcellville
Tuesday, July 5, 6:30 p.m. Lakes Ampitheater, 44078 Cheltenham Circle, Ashburn
Details: purcellvilleva.gov
Details: ashburnvillage.org
Monday, July 4, 11 a.m.
Celebrate the fourth with an old-fashioned small-town parade.
Make Independence Day last a little bit longer with the Ashburn Village HOA. The Dave Minniberg Band plays at the Lakes Ampitheater, followed by fireworks at sundown over the lake.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 40
JUNE 30, 2022
10% OFF
kitchen and bathroom remodeling (minimum job required $40k)
We do inspired remodels that make you WANT to stay in your kitchen and relax in your baths! Visit our showroom in Leesburg, meet with an expert and find your inspiration.
213 Crescent Station Terrace SE Leesburg | 703.793.8307 | VIRGINIAKITCHENANDBATH.COM
