Loudoun Now for Aug. 15, 2019 by Loudoun Now

LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

LoudounNow

[ Vol. 4, No. 39 ]

[ loudounnow.com ]

[ August 15, 2019 ]

■ PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES - PAGE 30 ■ EMPLOYMENT PAGE 31 ■ RESOURCE DIRECTORY PAGE 33

Leesburg Approves ‘Game-Changer’ Downtown Project BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

Courtesy of Krystal Culpepper

The Loudoun South All-Stars boarded the bus Saturday and travelled to Williamsport, PA to compete in the Little League World Series.

Loudoun South Team Battles to World Series BY NORMAN K. STYER After storming through the Southeast Region tournament in Warner Robins, GA last week, the history-making Loudoun South American All-Star team is in Williamsport, PA hoping to keep the hot streak rolling. It is the first time in a quarter century that a team from Virginia has qualified for the Little League World Series. The South Riding-based team emerged from the regional tournament riding a 16-game winning streak that will be on the line when they return to the field at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15 to face the champion of the New England region from Barrington, RI. The game will be televised live on ESPN. The team arrived on the big stage behind the pitching arm—and the bat—of Justin Lee, who led the dominating 12-2

victory over rivals Peachtree City, GA in the regional finals Aug. 7. Lee pitched to all except the final batter, giving up no earned runs or walks and striking out seven. At the plate, he hit two home runs and drew a walk. Teammates Colton Hicks and Chase Obstgarten also drove the offense, with Hicks leading with three hits and Obstgarten driving in four runs. It was a break-through win for Loudoun South, which entered the tour-

nament with a 0-5 record in the finals. Last year, it was Peachtree City that sent them home empty handed. This year, Loudoun beat the Georgia team twice, including a 6-5 walk-off win two days before the final game. Peachtree City battled back in the finals of the consolidation bracket, beating South Carolina 10-1—a game that was postponed and forced the Georgia team into a final day double header. After a few days at home, the Loudoun team was back on the bus Saturday to travel to Williamsport. The team is housed in dorms and was outfitted with new uniforms by World Series organizers. The series includes eight U.S. teams and eight international teams, which will battle in individual double elimination brackets to decide the participants in the championship game on Aug. 25.

The landscape of downtown Leesburg is changing, and with a Town Council vote this week will come hundreds of new residents to the historic district. The council voted 5-2 Tuesday night to approve the Church & Market development, which will bring 116 rental apartments and more than 10,000 combined square feet of retail, restaurant and office space on land that currently includes the former Loudoun Times-Mirror building off Market Street, stretching back to the parking lot and alley that border Church and Loudoun streets. It’s been a long and winding road for the developer behind the project, Landmark Development. Formerly known as Courthouse Square, the once predominantly office development was approved by the Town Council in 2012 before the office market all but dried up. The developer retooled and turned its eyes on downtown’s hot, but nascent, residential market, and will offer a rare opportunity to rent an apartment downtown. Those who spoke in favor of the project Tuesday seemed to realize the weight of the decision. Mayor Kelly Burk admitted that she went back and forth during the time the council was considering the project on whether she could support it, but was finally swayed by the developer’s presentation during Monday night’s work session that provided 3D visuals of how the development would be laid out. “I think this is going to be a game changer downtown,” she said. Lansdowne resident Sarah Carter, a former town resident, spoke in support of the project during the petitioner’s section of the meeting, and acknowledged the vast change the town has experienced in the DOWNTOWN >> 38

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INSIDE

3 August 15, 2019

Loudoun United Plays First-Ever Home Game

NAACP seeks council apology

Fund launched for fallen cop’s family

Round Hill could extend water, sewer service

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT Loudoun United, Loudoun’s own professional soccer team, played in front of the home crowd for the first time Friday, Aug 9, drawing against Charlottesville Independence after falling behind three times. Head Coach Ryan Martin said the sold-out opening night crowd was in part to thank for the team’s endurance. Each time the visiting team took the lead, the home team put a point on the board to equalize, finishing 3-3 after tying up the game for the third time at the 79-minute mark. Defender Harry Hawkins scored both his first goal for Loudoun United and the first-ever Loudoun United goal at Segra Field, the teams’ home at Philip A. Bolen Memorial Park near Leesburg. Antonio Bustamante scored his second career United Soccer League goal to tie the game in the 65th minute, and Carlos Alvarez scored his first goal for Loudoun United to tie the game. “I think the biggest takeaway is the resiliency of the guys to come back and get a late equalizer,” said head coach Ryan Martin after the game.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Fans get ramped up at the Loudoun United FC professional soccer opening game on August 9th in Leesburg.

And he said the team arrived at the stadium at 5 p.m. for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff to find the tailgating, grilling and music already well underway. “That was just something that this

group hasn’t had yet, and just to have it here, have it be home in Loudoun, was just an incredible night,” Martin OPENER >> 6

Leesburg Resident Tagged as White Supremacist Resigns from HOA Board BY RENSS GREENE After the Southern Poverty Law Center published a report alleging Leesburg resident and State Department official Matthew Gebert lived a second life online as a white supremacist, his neighbors have pulled together and ordered 100 “Hate Has No Home Here” signs. The center posted a report outlining a litany of online and in-person

involvement with white supremacist groups and ideology, including hosting a gathering at the Geberts’ Leesburg home, participating in the deadly “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville in 2017, helping organize and recruit a DC-area chapter for an alt-right network, participating in online white supremacist forums and programs, dining with a famed anti-Semite, and donating to a white supremacist in a Republican

INDEX

primary in Wisconsin. If the allegations are true, Gebert appears to have been flying under the radar, both to his neighbors and professionally. Gebert was also recently the president of the Greenway Farms Homeowners Association, just south of downtown Leesburg on King Street, according to minutes from its Board GEBERT >> 39

Loudoun Gov........................... 4 Leesburg ................................ 8 Education ............................. 12 Public Safety ........................ 14 Nonprofit .............................. 16 Biz ....................................... 18 Our Towns ............................ 20 LoCo Living .......................... 24 Get Out Loudoun................... 28 Public and Legal Notices....... 30 Employment ......................... 31 Resource Directory ............... 33 Opinion ................................ 36

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Loudoun United’s Orlando Sinclair uncorks a shot on goal in spite of heavy defensive pressure at the team’s inaugural game at Segra Field at Philip A. Bolen Memorial Park last friday. The team finished in a 3-3 draw in front of a sold-out crowd at the 5,000-seat stadium near Leesburg.

Consultant costs cause concern

[ LOUDOUN GOV ]

[ BRIEFS ] County Government Wins Award for Procurement

August 15, 2019

Loudoun County

Finance and Procurement Director Janet Romanchyk.

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Finance committee chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) wondered last month whether it would be cheaper for the county to hire fewer consultants and more staff.

Recession Worries, Consultant Costs Shade Rosy Budget Projections BY RENSS GREENE Even as the current Fiscal Year 2020 began in July, Loudoun budget officers had already been looking ahead to how much tax money the county expects to collect in Fiscal Year 2021. And while revenue projections won’t be available until October, so far, they say, economic indicators are strong for Loudoun. During a recent Board of Supervisors’ finance committee meeting, county budget staffers cited world economic outlook projections from the International Monetary Fund, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the World Bank, which predict another year much like the last. That would mean continued growing revenues for Loudoun County. “The key takeaway here is that it’s very similar to where we were last year,” said Management and Budget Director Erin McLellan. “The only thing that we’re really tracking as a potential risk is some increased talk about a recession. There is a little bit more risk of recession in the next couple of years than there was last year, according to economists that are surveyed on a regular basis, but at this point there’s no reason for us to alter the way we’re forecasting.”

All three international organizations cited some threats to the world economy from government policies like trade restrictions and tariffs, historically high levels of corporate debt compared to earnings coupled with rising interest rates, and banking crises or national debt crises such as in the European Union. National, state and local forecasts show more of the same going forward—especially in Northern Virginia’s housing market, where values continue to climb, meaning more real estate tax revenue for Loudoun County government. Loudoun also shows lower unemployment and faster employment growth than the region and state. The county Board of Supervisors has been squeezing a lot into their always-busy budget over the past two years. In addition to the constant pace of construction, including filling in where the state continues to fall further behind on its obligation to build roads, the county government has been investing in itself as it staffs up to match its population growth. In the current budget, according to a report to the board’s finance committee, supervisors funded 208 new hires, which county departments are working to bring on now.

Next year, that spending will likely continue as the county enters the third year of its three-year plan to catch its staffing levels and payscales up to other Northern Virginia jurisdictions. Loudoun’s government staff, relatively small compared to its population and the number of ongoing government projects, has meant contracting a lot of consultant help—which finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said may not be the cheapest way to do business. “We’ve brought in a lot of external help,” Letourneau said. “I kind of want to look and see what has that actually done and is that a good model. Is it efficient for us to be using as many consultants as we are using to provide some of these services, or should we bite the bullet and just simply add more internal staff ?” With that growing government, Letourneau pointed out, the county will also at some point have to spend serious money to get more office space. County budget officers will return to the finance committee with projections both of revenues and budget needs in the fall. rgreene@loudounnow.com

Loudoun County has again received national recognition for organizational excellence in public procurement. The Loudoun County Division of Procurement has earned the 2019 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute. The Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award is given annually to organizations that demonstrate excellence by obtaining a high score based on standardized criteria. The criteria are designed to measure innovation, professionalism, productivity, e-procurement, and leadership attributes of the procurement organization. Loudoun County is one of only eight government agencies in Virginia and one of only 42 counties in the United States and Canada to receive the award this year. Loudoun has been a recipient of the award for 21 consecutive years. The Loudoun County Division of Procurement is responsible for the acquisition of all goods and services, including professional services and construction, for Loudoun County government operations. More information about Loudoun County’s procurement process can be found at loudoun.gov/procurement.

Animal Services to Clear the Shelter on Saturday Loudoun County Animal Services will join the fifth annual nationwide “Clear the Shelters” free pet adoption event on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adoption fees will be waived for all available pets, which includes cats, kittens, dogs, puppies, small pets, and reptiles. “Every year we have a line of people waiting when we open the doors,” stated Shelter OpBRIEFS >> 5

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<< FROM 4 erations Manager Amy Martin. “And there is nothing better than the feeling we get when we send homeless pets into the arms of loving families.” To help as many pets as possible, Animal Services is teaming up with four partner shelters to double the number of available pets in the week leading up to Clear the Shelters. “Pet overpopulation is still a struggle for many of our neighboring communities, but Clear the Shelters gives us the chance to help match pets in need with families looking to help save lives,” Martin stated. “It really is a winwin.” The shelter will also host a children’s craft tent, raﬄe baskets and giveaways from local businesses, a com-

plimentary snack bar and a TouchA-Truck opportunity with an Animal Control Officer. All dogs, cats and rabbits adopted from Loudoun County Animal Services are spayed or neutered and receive a microchip that is registered to their adopter. Dogs and cats also receive age-appropriate vaccinations. The shelter frequently has many pets available for adoption including hamsters, guinea pigs, turtles, rabbits, other small pets and livestock. Available pets can be seen online at loudoun.gov/animals. The standard adoption screening process still applies during this promotion and most adoptions can be completed on the same day. The Loudoun County Animal Shelter is at 39820 Charles Town Pike near Waterford.

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Loudoun United's team celebrates one of its goals by Carlos Alvarez.

Opener << FROM 3 said. “The guys were beyond excited to kick off, and I had to kind of calm them down a little, to be honest.” The players on the field felt the excitement in the stands, too, he said. “For us, when we walked out there to our fans in Loudoun, and the guys were just excited, that’s where you saw the resiliency at the end,” Martin said.

“People always say ‘the twelfth man,’ and how fans can help—it’s a situation like that where they can almost will you to equalize.” As Loudoun United continues to improve on its 5-9-5 record in its inaugural season, Martin said the team is “getting better every day” and “focusing on the process and not the results.” “If everybody does their job, if everybody continues to focus on what the task at hand is, the results will come,” Martin said. Hawkins, who scored the team’s

first-ever home goal, said there was “a great atmosphere” at the game. “As a defender I’m going to look at it slightly disappointed because of the three goals, all of which I think definitely could have been prevented, but credit to the boys, we were down a goal three times, and we came back and pulled something out of the game,” he said. Loudoun United also controlled the ball for almost two-thirds of the game, taking 11 shots on goal and recording eight saves.

The team, which assembled shortly before the first game of its existence, is just past the halfway mark its first season and is now playing at a stadium that was ready only a year after county supervisors announced they had been working in secret on a deal to bring the team to Loudoun. The 5,000-seat stadium is the first part of a $15 million sports complex that will also include the headquarters and training center for Major League Soccer franchise D.C. United.

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Economic Development Department Marks 40 Years tract tens of thousands of jobs and tens of billions of dollars in commercial investment. “Loudoun County is internationally-recognized for business-friendliness and quality of life. It starts with an entrepreneurial ecosystem and proactive business attraction, and continues long after grand openings,” stated Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer. “Despite our growth, we believe that personal touch still matters.” In the past decade, the commercial tax base has grown from providing 19 percent of the county’s budget to 34 percent. Over the same time, Loudoun has been recognized as one of the nation’s safest, healthiest and most educated communities. “Businesses have helped Loudoun shape its identity, from the Dulles Tech Corridor to the fertile farmlands in the West. By strategically diversifying our industries, we’ve grown an economy that best serves our residents,” Rizer stated. Between August and October 2019, Loudoun will celebrate economic and workforce stories that contributed to 40 years of business success. The community is also encouraged to share their favorite business moments on social media using the hashtag #LoudounPossible.

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This year marks 40 years since the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors created the Department of Economic Development. The Loudoun of today is radically different from the Loudoun of 1979. In the 40 years since, Loudoun County has welcomed thousands of businesses to the community, from farm businesses and home-grown startups to multinational corporations. Loudoun Economic Development has helped at-

August 15, 2019

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer.

[ LEESBURG ]

[ BRIEFS ] 9/11 Ride to Roll Through Loudoun Again

August 15, 2019

Kara Clark Rodriguez/Loudoun Now

Members of the Loudoun NAACP Legal Redress Committee, from left, Chairwoman Buta Biberaj, President Pastor Michelle C. Thomas and Vice President Amanda Tandy meet with members of the Leesburg Town Council.

NAACP Seeks Apology, Action In Wake of Proclamation Controversy BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ A meeting Monday morning between members of the Loudoun NAACP’s executive board and two members of the Leesburg Town Council included some strong words for the elected body, and underscored a desire by the NAACP to see the relationship repaired. The NAACP board requested the meeting following the controversial presentation of three proclamations by the council in May and June, including one presented to the NAACP in celebration of Juneteenth, the June 19 holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. Those proclamations included statements written by Councilman Tom Dunn, in lieu of his signature, that some community groups and individuals criticized as offensive. In the resolution presented to the NAACP, Dunn wrote, “This is a celebration, lynching is not.” The NAACP had a June 19 ceremony commemorating the county’s first memorial to a 14-year-old lynching victim. Dunn has apologized for offending the groups, but has maintained that the council’s proclamation process had become too politically motivated.

Monday morning, NAACP Legal Redress Committee Chairwoman Buta Biberaj, President Pastor Michelle C. Thomas and Vice President Amanda Tandy represented the executive board and were joined by council-appointed representatives Vice Mayor Marty Martinez and Councilman Neil Steinberg. Councilman Ron Campbell was in the audience for the meeting. “There have been a lot of disappointments and expectations not met,” Biberaj said, speaking on behalf of the NAACP. “We’d like to have a good relationship with the Town of Leesburg.” Both Biberaj and Thomas expressed their disappointment that other members of the Town Council were not in attendance for the meeting, particularly the subjects of their ire, Dunn and Councilman Josh Thiel, who wrote statements on the proclamations on Dunn’s behalf when he was not present for their signing. Pointed comments were also directed at Mayor Kelly Burk for not supporting a motion to censure Dunn and also not calling for his resignation. “It would be nice to have those conversations with those persons in per-

son. The perception is it’s not important enough for those individuals to be at the table,” Biberaj said. Thomas criticized Burk’s “unfortunate history of lack of support for the African American community” and said her absence from the meeting showed she was “not brave enough” to have a conversation about how to move forward. The council voted, with only Campbell opposed, to have an appointed committee of two council members meet with the NAACP board as an initial step moving forward. Thomas also said she did not understand how the written comments were not spotted before the proclamations were presented to the groups, and questioned whether the remarks would have been caught if it had been on a proclamation representing a group with which a council member identified. “This is about a process that happened that was a mistake,” Martinez said in response. Steinberg also noted that council members do not see a proclamation after they have signed it and that Dunn typically is the last person to sign most NAACP >> 9

Taste Leesburg Packs Downtown The streets of downtown Leesburg were packed for Taste Leesburg Saturday, Aug. 10. People came out to try food and drinks from almost 60 shops and hear music and see shows on three stages. —Renss Greene

Hard Swimmin' Fish rock the center stage at the corner of King Street and Market Street at Taste Leesburg on Aug. 10.

Trying treats from The Conche at Taste Leesburg

America’s 9/11 Ride will roll through downtown Leesburg once again on Friday. Motorcycle riders will be on their way from the Shanksville, PA crash site of Flight 93 to the Pentagon, and from there on to One World Trade Center in New York City. And once again, the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company will have ladder trucks set up on North King Street by Ida Lee Park hanging the American flag for the riders to pass under. America’s 9/11 Foundation, the event organizers, are asking locals to once again come out, wave American flags and show their support. The riders are expected to pass through Leesburg from approximately 1:15-1:40 p.m. The nonprofit foundation was organized in response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 to support first responders. In addition to leading hundreds or thousands of riders on a memorial ride each year, the foundation raises funds that go toward scholarships for the families of active duty fire, EMS and police. Over the past 15 years, the foundation has given out more than $420,000 in scholarships to children of first responders. The foundation also donates to other local and national first responders organizations. Leesburg is the foundation’s hometown, and Ted Sjurseth, who organizes the ride, lives in Lucketts. His customized tribute Harley-Davidson motorcycle is currently on display at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York, NY. More information can be found online at americas911foundation.org or by called 703-771-0118.

NAACP

krodriguez@loudounnow.com

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proclamations. “A majority of the Town Council is in agreement that [Dunn’s statements] were absolutely inappropriate, and we’ve taken steps to ensure it can’t happen again,” Steinberg said. He and members of the town staff outlined the steps the council was taking in the wake of the controversy, including a vote set for this week’s meeting that would include changes to the proclamation process. Those include: moving the presentation of proclamations to a half hour before the start of the bimonthly business meeting; voting on proclamations two weeks in advance of their presentation; no longer allowing other council members to sign on another’s behalf; and allowing only signatures to be written on the signature lines. Town Attorney Barbara Notar said the council has to be careful in terms of upholding freedom of speech protections in any changes it makes to its policies. “We hear so much rhetoric on the national level; we just don’t want it to be part of our local community,” Biberaj said. NAACP board members voiced support for those changes, but asked the council to scrutinize its disciplinary procedures for council members in an upcoming review of the ethics policy, set for the Sept. 9 work session. Thomas also asked for a work session to be scheduled to review the town’s Memorandum of Understanding with the

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August 15, 2019

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NAACP. She praised the relationship between the NAACP and the Leesburg Police Department. “We do not have that rapport with the Town Council,” she said. Thomas said the NAACP is still considering what next steps it will take in the wake of the controversy. She had previously expressed support for recalling Burk from office, in addition to calling on Dunn to resign. “We need a good apology. We need an acknowledgement of what happened,” she said. In particular, she expressed support for discussing disciplinary measures for council actions and said censure should not be off the table. At the council’s June 24 work session, Campbell raised the subject of censuring Dunn, but did not have the backing of a majority of the council. Reached after the meeting, Burk defended her record with the local African American community, noting her support for the naming of the alleyway after longtime business owner Nelson “Mutt” Lassiter and the placement of markers along the path for the annual MLK Day celebration. She said she was disappointed that NAACP leadership did not realize that the mayor and council have to follow certain rules and guidelines in governing. She added that following the democratic process, as the council has, should not trigger vitriol, rhetoric and calls for a recall vote. “We may feel a certain way but we are still bound by the rules and regulations in our bylaws,” she said.

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A guitarist in a five-man Mariachi band serenades a packed Rodeo’s Mexican Grill last Saturday during the Lovettsville restaurant’s grand opening.

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living in the German Settlement no longer have to leave town for an authentic Mexican meal or a quality margarita. Rodeo’s Mexican Grill opened its doors in the former Lovettsville Pizza & Subs location off South Loudoun Street last Saturday after less than four months of renovations, drawing a packed house nearly all day long, including visits from Mayor Nate Fontaine, several Town Council members and Supervisor Geary M. Higgins (R-Catoctin). But the most enjoyable part of many patrons’ experiences wasn’t simply feasting on the Mexican food, but also enjoying the upbeat Mariachi music played by a five-man band—a sight contrasted with the traditional Bavarian music usually featured in town at Oktoberfest and other community events. The restaurant is owned and operated by Mexican immigrant Victor Juarez, also the owner of a local painting and drywall business, and Adan Valdez, the owner of Frida’s Mexican Restaurant in Dillwyn. Named for the traditional Mexican rodeos that Juarez hosts at his Lovettsville-area home

each spring, Rodeo’s doesn’t have a most popular dish. Instead, Juarez said all the menu items are flying out of the kitchen, noting that one customer ordered one of almost everything on the menu the other day. During the grand opening, which lasted only six hours, Juarez went through 14 bottles of tequila when making margaritas. Since then, he said business has been just as busy each day. To make that point clear, he said a few customers came in for lunch one day, then back later with their families for dinner. “[Residents] love it so far,” he said. The opening of Rodeo’s comes a little more than 10 months after Chuck Blough closed Lovettsville Pizza & Subs after almost 24 years of operation. Fred George, the owner of the building, said Juarez agreed to open the Mexican restaurant in the spot earlier this spring, after initial interest from the owner of Leesburg’s Los Tios Grill. For now, the restaurant is open every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Juarez said he’s working to determine which day is the least busy so that he can close that day for a mid-week break. pszabo@loudounnow.com

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Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Rodeo’s Mexican Grill was packed most of the day with patrons and a Mariachi band during its grand opening last Saturday.

‘Bye Bye Birdie’ Comes to Purcellville

The Tony-award winning musical “Bye Bye Birdie” graced the stage of the Trillium Gathering Building in Lincoln last weekend with a condensed and edited version intended for younger audiences. First Act Productions, the company that staged the performance, is no stranger to the spotlight. It has sold out multiple shows in Loudoun since its founding five years ago.

Kristen Fitzgerald, the founder and director of First Act Productions, created the theater company while she was in high school and is currently a Musical Theater Major at New York University Steinhardt. From the beginning, the community response has been “overwhelming.” “It’s been really amazing these past five years seeing it grow,” Fitzgerald said. “We love the positivity that the community of Loudoun brings to the show.”

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family-friendly, but for certain shows they cut any language or innuendo.” “I think it's a great chance to introduce young actors to a variety of musicals,” said Ryan McGaughey, an actress in the musical. Although the adaptation may target younger audiences, the ages of the cast ranged drastically. The youngest among them is 10 years old, while the eldest is 65. Fitzgerald said she is amazed by the effort her cast never ceases to display during practice. “We’ve got an amazing group of actors from all walks of life,” Fitzgerald said. “I’ve never seen people so motivated. I’ve seen it in New York and I see it in these kids. They practice and perfect everything.” Before opening night, McGaughey said she was looking forward to showcasing the team that First Act Productions has brought together. “What I would love more than anything is for folks to come out and see just have talented this cast and crew are,” McGaughey said. “Nothing would make me happier than to get the word out about First Act Productions and show our audiences what we are made of.” As for the response to the upcoming showings, Fitzgerald said she has high hopes: “I’m really hoping that this is going to be our best show yet.” More about First Act Productions is online at thefirstact.org

August 15, 2019

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

The cast of “Bye Bye Birdie” rehearses before opening night.

Fitzgerald said it was always her intention to give back to the community through the theater company. When they staged “The Sound of Music” in 2014, the youth actors portraying the von Trapp children performed at a local soup kitchen. “I had always wanted to direct and start a company,” Fitzgerald explained. “I found the Tree of Life Ministries and my find passion for doing this. They just collided and created a company.” In addition to this community involvement, Fitzgerald said that about 60 percent to 70 percent of First Act performances financially benefit various charity organizations such as Tree of Life Ministries, though this production of “Bye Bye Birdie” did not. “We want to not just be in the community, but of the community,” Fitzgerald said. “And we want to always be giving back in whatever way we can.” Over the years, the company has sold out a variety of shows, including “Annie,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Music Man.” For the first time ever, they’ll be presenting the Young Performers Edition of a show, edited by Broadway musical licensing company Tams-Witmark. “We really want our shows to be fastpaced,” Fitzgerald said. “[The editors] take a two- or three-hour show and condense it to one hour. So, it has all of the best parts of the show, but they’re obviously cut down. This show is very

[ E D U C AT I O N ]

August 15, 2019

Leesburg Elementary Plans Back to School Bash

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Leesburg Elementary School will hold its inaugural Back to School Bash on Aug. 18 from 2-6 p.m. Principal Shawn Lacey and Assistant Principal Nikole Mullen invite all elementary school age children who live in Leesburg, and the rest of the Leesburg community, to join them in a community celebration to kick off the upcoming school year. Free hamburgers and hotdogs will be available along with food trucks to purchase other food and treats. Free haircuts will also be offered. Physicians and dentists will be on site and information on where to receive free check-ups and immunizations will also be available. Parents will have access to local and school district resources with volunteers to help an-

swer questions. Other community businesses will also be around promoting fun and games. There will be a no-sale yard sale where community residents can come with new or gently used clothing to be available to those who could use it. According to Tiffany Feagin, president of the Leesburg Elementary PTO, “The LES PTO is excited to stand behind and support the school administrators in making this event a hit. We look forward to partnering with different businesses in the community to make this happen.” Businesses that want to help sponsor the event or partner with the PTO should email LeesburgPTO@gmail. com or go to les.ptboard.com.

[ SCHOOL NOTES ] Middleburg Academy Transitions to Classical Liberal Arts Education Beginning with the upcoming academic year, Middleburg Academy will work with Hillsdale College to transition to a classical education model. Administrators said the transition is a natural next step for the school that began in 1965 as the Notre Dame Academy, a Catholic boarding school for girls, later became a co-educational Catholic day school in the 1990s and then operated as an independent, classical liberal arts school. Hillsdale College began in 1844 and was the first college open to all students regardless of race, sex, or creed and focused on classically rooted liberal arts studies. Administrators describe classical liberal arts education as practical and personal and say that bringing that approach to Middleburg Academy will better serve parents and students—with a focus that is both more immediate and more forward-thinking than college prep alone. The liberal arts are often cataloged as seven—the trivium of grammar, logic, and rhetoric; and the quadrivium of arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music. They take their foundations from ancient Greek philosophy, history, poetry, and rhetoric. The birth of the term dates from centuries after Athens’ golden age when the great Roman humanist and orator Cicero referred to them as the artes liberales. They consisted of education, literature, and eloquence; later humanists would reveal a fourth category implicit in Cicero’s presenta-

tion, namely the laws, the traditions of humanity and the dictates of practical reason. Learn more at middleburgacademy.org.

Qarni to Visit Minnieland Campus Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni will visit Minnieland Academy at Ashbriar next week to recognize the school’s recent STEM Early Learning Certification. Minnieland Academy locations in Ashbriar and Kirkpatrick Farms in Loudoun were among only five schools in the nation that have earned certification. The secretary’s visit is intended to underscore the importance of STEM preschool programs. He is scheduled to tour the school Aug. 21 and meet with teachers, parents, and administrators. “We are honored by our school’s achievement and the Secretary visit to recognize them,” said Charles Leopold, CEO and founder of the Minnieland Academy Schools. “Our teachers and leadership team worked very hard for this recognition and our company is proud to provide high-quality STEM programs to the children and families we serve.” In the first known certification of its kind, AdvancED’s Early Learning STEM Certification provides institutions and programs serving children from three weeks through five years of age a research-based framework and criteria from which to assess the quality, rigor, and substance of their early learning practices, including problem-based experiential learning and integrating components of STEM thinking into a broad range of activities and learning opportunities.

Vigil for Unity: ‘This Could Have Been Us’

August 15, 2019

BY NORMAN K. STYER

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Candles are placed on the stage during the Aug. 7, 2019, Vigil for Unity in Leesburg.

where 17 students were killed. “When one person falls to a senseless act of violence, we all suffer and mourn as a nation. Nothing can ever bring back those 31 lives that were cut short in El Paso and Dayton nor those innocent children in Connecticut, but I and millions of my peers will strive tirelessly to not allow this to be the norm in this country,” Marx said. “Our generation’s exposure to constant media coverage of attack after attack has reconfigured our role in what was once considered adult discussions. We will speak loud and clear because no one should ever feel hunted or defenseless in this country. In the United States of

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Daniella Marx speaks during the Aug. 7, 2019, Vigil for Unity in Leesburg.

America, no one should ever be brutalized for their race or their heritage and no one should be forced to feel unwelcome in a place they call home.” Kaylynn Breland said she was gratified to see so many attend their vigil, a response she said was reflective of a caring community. “This could have been us,” the 15-year-old said. “You can’t predict when something like that is going to happen, so I feel so blessed and so lucky to have this.” She urged her peers and those in the crowd to be politically active and aware and to support leaders willing to

make changes. “We cannot let horrible people doing unspeakable things separate us. We will not let them dismantle our strength and unity as we stand here today, able to heal and move toward tangible, compensable change, rather than inaction,” Breland said. “To everyone directly affected by these shootings or by any form of gun violence … we stand with you. We fight for you. This generation fights for you and we fight for change.” nstyer@loudounnow.com

The names of the 31 people killed in mass shootings in Texas and Ohio were read aloud on Leesburg’s Town Green on Aug. 7 as part of a vigil organized by a team of Tuscarora High School students. The program, which included speeches and musical performances, was attended by several members of the county Board of Supervisors and the Leesburg Town council, but the teens did the talking. Daniella Marx recalled that her first recollection of such violence was just after her 11th birthday when 26 people were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT. “They were elementary schoolers just like me. They were kids—kids who were senselessly murdered in a place where they, also I, were always supposed to be safe,” she said. “I had countless sleepless nights wondering if such a despicable act would ever occur again. I thought for sure that something so heartless, so inhumane, could never be repeated, but as I grew older it repeated again, again and again.” As a result, she avoided large crowds and public spaces, unsure where violence would break out. She found inspiration that her generation could make a difference during the 2018 March for Our Lives rally in Washington, DC, following the shootings in Parkland, FL,

August 15, 2019

[ PUBLIC SAFETY ]

[ BRIEFS ]

Judge Disallows Psychological Report as Evidence in Deputy Shooting Case BY PATRICK SZABO L ou d ou n County Circuit Court Judge James P. Fisher ruled last Thursday that a recent psychological report done on Douglas Johnson, the man charged with attempting to murder Johnson two Sheriff ’s Office deputies on Christmas Eve 2017, would not be admitted as evidence in the upcoming jury trial. On Dec. 24, 2017, Loudoun deputies Katherine Fischer, Tim Iversen, and Justin Nyce responded to a domestic dispute at Johnson’s Sterling home at about 4 p.m. After an hour-long effort to deescalate a days-long dispute between Johnson, 41, and his then-19-year-old daughter, deputies decided to arrest Johnson on a domestic violence charge. Johnson, a former U.S. Army major who was awarded a Bronze Star after serving 42 months in combat zones and who was working in the intelligence field with the highest level of security clearance, allegedly then became agitated, went to an upstairs closet, refused to come out and lunged for a 1911 .45-caliber handgun. Fischer then jumped on Johnson’s back while Iverson attempted to activate his TASER. Johnson then fired three shots, two of which hit Iverson in his arm and both legs and Fischer in her leg. A third bullet was found

lodged in Iverson’s vest. In May 2018, a grand jury issued 11 felony indictments against Johnson— two counts of attempted capital murder, two counts of aggravated malicious assault, four counts of use of a firearm in committing a felony and three counts of discharging a firearm inside a building. Last Thursday, Fisher ruled that a forensic psychological report prepared on June 26 by Dr. Stephen Lally—who reported that Johnson suffered from “moderate to severe depression and PTSD” at the time of the shooting and was actually attempting to kill himself rather than the deputies—contained speculative opinions and failed to establish clinical findings for an insanity defense because it did not describe “irresistible impulse,” but instead described Johnson in a “frenzy” at the time he shot the deputies. Fisher said that admitting the report as evidence in the trial would be “extraordinarily confusing” for the jury. He simultaneously ruled that Lally’s testimony on Johnson’s mental state during the time of the shooting would not be allowed. Lisa Caruso, Johnson’s defense attorney, argued that Lally’s report described Johnson’s action as being an irresistible impulse in which he meant to commit suicide and not shoot at deputies. She said that Johnson didn’t have a premeditated plan to kill himself, but that he resolved to do it in a single instant. “In that moment, he realized it was over,” she said. But Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Sean Morgan argued that an irresistible impulse to commit a crime separate

from what a person is charged with can’t be used as a not guilty by reason of insanity defense. Morgan also argued that admitting Lally’s report and testimony in the trial as evidence would have misguided the jury’s outlook on the case by presupposing for its members that Lally’s report should have been interpreted as the truth. He said jury members should decide on what the truth is on their own, without influence from the witness stand. Fisher also ruled last Thursday that Caruso would be allowed to obtain copies of interview video recordings of Fischer, Iversen and Nyce, which are in the possession of the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office. Caruso said that Sheriff Mike Chapman was unwilling to release the recordings for her review without a court order. In Caruso’s request for the videos to help build Johnson’s case, she wrote that the videos contain “favorable information to [Johnson] not previously disclosed, inconsistent statements and evidence of prejudice and bias.” Johnson’s five-day jury trial is scheduled for Aug. 19-23. If convicted on all charges, he could face up to two life terms in prison for twice attempting capital murder; two life terms for two counts of aggravated malicious assault; 13 years for an initial count and two subsequent counts of using a firearm in committing a felony; and up to 30 years for three counts of discharging a firearm indoors if done maliciously and up to 15 years if done without malice. pszabo@loudounnow.com

Police Association Starts Fund for Payne Family After the sudden death of Loudoun School Resource Officer and Deputy First Class Justin Payne, the Police Benevolent Foundation and the Virginia Division of the Southern States Police Benevolent Association have set up a fund for his family. Payne died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Aug. 6. He is survived by his wife, Erica, and his daughter, Addison. All donations to the Deputy Justin Payne Memorial Fund are tax-deductible, and all of the money will go to the Payne family, according to the foundation. Donations can be made on the Police Benevolent Foundation’s website pbfi.org. Payne was the School Resource Officer at John Champe High School and was scheduled to serve as SRO at Independence High School when it opens next week. He began his career with the sheriff ’s office in April 2005 as a patrol deputy and had also served as SRO at Sterling Middle School and as a member of the department’s SWAT Team and

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Deputy First Class Justin Payne, center, poses with campers in this 2016 photo from Teen Serve Camp, when hundreds of teens helped clean up Sterling’s Gwen Thompson Briar Patch Park while Payne and other officers kept watch.

Rapid Response Unit. “Justin Payne was a close friend, a loved and trusted member of his agency having served as a patrol deputy,

a SWAT Operator, and most recently as a School Resource Officer,” stated Loudoun County Chapter President Sean Dikeman. “Our thoughts, prayers and support go out to the family of Deputy Payne during this difficult time. We are now calling on the community to step up and help the family in this time of need. Justin is a true hero who dedicated 14 years to the safety and security to the citizens and children of Loudoun County.” “Justin understood the importance of an SRO, showing an interest in each student’s academics and extracurricular activities,” wrote the sheriff ’s office in a Facebook post. “He served as a mentor to many of them and we know he touched the lives of countless others, including his brothers and sisters here at the LCSO. He also loved woodworking and often created United States flags carved out of wood for his fellow employees.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

Investigators Seek Victims in Contractor Fraud Investigation The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is seeking potential additional victims as part of its investigation of a contractor fraud Ashford case. Stephen E. Ashford, 38, was arrested Aug. 5 on charges of failure to perform promise for construction, embezzlement, and contracting without a license. He operated Pro + Design, which was previously named Pro Home Remodeling. Several victims have been identified and detectives are working to determine whether there are others. Anyone who entered into a contract with Ashford or his companies and believes they were victims is asked to contact Detective Roy Ortutay at roy.ortutay@ loudoun.gov or 571-258-3375. Ashford was released from the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center on a $25,000 bond. A preliminary hearing in Loudoun County District Court is scheduled for Sept. 19. Loudoun court records show that Ashford pleaded guilty to charges of working without a license and deceptive advertising in June 2018, for which he received a 6-month suspended sentence.

Sterling Robbery Thwarted by Armed Bystander An Ohio man was arrested Saturday after an attempted robbery that was thwarted by an armed bystander, according to Bradley the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office. Deputies were called to the area of Holiday Park Drive in Sterling around 9:20 a.m. on Aug. 10 for a report of a robbery. The victim reported that a man he didn’t know assaulted him and his mother-inlaw and attempted to rob him. A nearby bystander witnessing the incident discharged three rounds from his personal firearm before detaining the suspect until deputies arrived. No one was struck by the discharged rounds during the incident. Jeremiah Bradley, 24, is charged with attempted robbery and two counts of assault and battery. He was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. Deputies continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident and the citizen’s discharge of the firearm.

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The final presentation of Bluemont Concert Series Bronze Bear awards was celebrated in Leesburg Aug. 9. Standing on the steps of Loudoun’s courthouse where the organization for decades offered summer Sunday night concerts are, (from left front row) award recipients Lily Dunning Widman, Milton Herd, Melissa Weaver Dunning and Robert Sevila, joined by (back row) founder Peter Dunning, first board chairman Steve Robin and Martha Robin, who coordinated the organization’s First Night Leesburg New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Bluemont Wraps with Final Bronze Bear Awards Early in 2018, the leaders of the Bluemont Concert Series made the difficult decision to terminate its programs after four decades of providing cultural programing in 34 Virginia communities. Last week, the organization formally wrapped up its work with the presentation of awards to four of its longest serving supporters.

Bluemont’s most visible program locally was its Sunday night summer concerts on the courthouse lawn in Leesburg, which then operated as the county’s largest venue for musical performances long before the explosion of today’s entertainment scene that provides concerts on dozens of stages each weekend. Bluemont also brought

performers, artists and storytellers into schools and nursing homes—more than 9,600 programs in total, reaching more than 3.2 million people. The Bronze Bear Award was created in 1990 and was conveyed by vote of Bluemont’s regional board of directors to recognize long-standing and successful leadership in the arts in

communities served by Bluemont. On Friday during a small gathering at the Downtown Saloon in Leesburg, the final four awards were presented to longtime board members Milton Herd and Robert Sevila, Executive Director Lily Dunning Widman and Business Manager Melissa Weaver Dunning.

[ NONPROFIT NOTES ] Rogers Tapped to Lead Middleburg Humane Foundation Rose Rogers is the new executive director of the nonprofit The Middleburg Humane Foundation, which works to rescue and rehabilitate abused animals. Rogers was one Rogers of the original incorporators of the foundation and has been a member of its board of directors and a volunteer since its inception in 1993. She succeeds board member Polly Gault, who held the post for the past three years. The leadership change comes as construction of the foundation’s long-

planned, state-of-the-art shelter complex in Marshall reaches completion. It will house cats, dogs, equine, livestock, and small mammals. “All of us at the Middleburg Humane Foundation see an opportunity to have a big influence on the surrounding communities through education and programmatic support and are thrilled to have Rose lead us in this exciting stage of growth,” Gault stated. “I’m excited about her next steps for the foundation, and I can’t wait to see where we can go.” Rogers’ hiring comes as the foundation implements a plan of strategic growth in grant-funded programs, development and outreach, building on the successes of the fundraising events expanding in Loudoun, Prince William, and Fauquier counties in addition to the annual gala, as well as a new partnership with the Virginia-Mary-

land College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech to expand the foundation’s spay, neuter and shelter management programs. “I am honored to have the opportunity to be a part of the Middleburg Humane Foundation team which has done so much for the animals in need. The foundation is poised to develop its vision and build on the tremendous momentum of the past twenty-five years. I look forward to working with the team to bring the foundation to the next level, making a positive difference for even more animals and people living in our area,” Rogers stated. Rogers has over 30 years of professional experience and will be leaving her position as business manager at BSI Professional Services and Solutions Inc, based in Reston. She holds a bachelor’s degree from George Mason University with a double major in ac-

counting and business management.

Harris Teeter Sponsors Food Pantry Back to School Week Harris Teeter has signed on as the signature sponsor for Loudoun Hunger Relief ’s 2019 Back to School week. The program supplies families with school-age children extra food prior to the beginning of the school year. The week long effort takes place from Aug. 12-17. “Harris Teeter strives to support the communities we serve and does so as part of our commitment to fight hunger,” said Communication Manager Danna Robinson. Loudoun Hunger Relief Executive Director Jennifer Montgomery said, “We are so grateful to have Harris TeeNONPROFIT NOTES >> 17

[ NONPROFIT NOTES ] ter as the Signature Sponsor of Back to School Week again this year. They are a true partner in the fight against hunger in our community, and their commitment to our working families is so important.”

Leveling the Playing Field, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free sporting equipment to low income communities in the region, is partnering with the Upper Loudoun Youth Football League to collect used sporting equipment. The event will be held Saturday Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The collection drive will be taking place at the ULYFL Jamboree Day located at Franklin Park west of Purcellville. LPF will have its trailer in the parking lot. Since 2013, LPF has donated over $5 million worth of sporting equipment to more than 750 schools and youth/ after school programs. “We have been so blessed to have the overwhelming support of the more affluent youth sports community in and around DC. Families understand firsthand how vital participation in sports have been to their own children’s upbringing and they have taken on the responsibility to ensure every child has the same opportunity their kids have no matter what their economic situation is,” founder Max Levitt said. “We are really looking forward to this collection drive with the Upper Loudon Youth Football community. This will not only bring much needed gear into our warehouse but will expose our mission to tons of families in the community.”

Master Gardener Training Offered The Virginia Cooperative Extension of Loudoun County is seeking applications for the 2020 Extension Master Gardener Volunteer training class. Extension Master Gardeners assist the Virginia Cooperative Extension in delivering environmentally sound horticulture education programs to the community. Volunteers receive a minimum of 60 hours of in-classroom/ lab training, and then undertake an internship of 75 hours in selected area programming to be complete by the end of the year. To continue tenure as a Master Gardener, 25 hours of volunteering and 8 hours of continuing education are necessary each year. The 2020 training will be held at 750 Miller Dr., SE, Ste. F-3, Leesburg, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Class begins on Jan. 28, 2020 and ends April 2. The fee for the course is $235 and includes the purchase of the 500+ page Virginia EMG Handbook, additional course materials and a background screening. The training schedule includes classes in basic botany, water quality, fruits, tree and shrub identification, vegetables, disease/insect diagnosis, and related natural resource subjects. Lab work is scheduled during the course. An Open House and Information Meeting is planned Sept. 24, starting at

Blue Ridge Hospice Announces New Interim CEO, President The Blue Ridge Hospice board of directors named Richard Kennedy to serve as interim president and CEO. “We are thrilled Richard has agreed to serve as interim CEO to lead and

continue the tremendous progress we have made in providing quality end of life care to so many throughout the greater Winchester area. Richard’s strong community connections, his expertise in nonprofit leadership, and the executive positions he has held, most recently as CEO of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber, ensures the ongoing vitality and success of Blue Ridge Hospice, while we conduct a search to find the permanent CEO,” said Board Chairwoman Jared Truban. In mid-2019, Kennedy left as CEO of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber to work with various regional nonprofit community organizations. Previously, he was the fiscal manager for Apple Country Head Start shortly after re-locating to Virginia from Southern

California. During Kennedy’s career, he has held financial positions ranging from CFO to controller to financial analyst in various industries such as computer manufacturing, banking, retail, transportation, and staffing. “I am very grateful to the Blue Ridge Hospice board for instilling their faith and confidence in my leadership and expertise to lead this fabulous and dedicated staff,” Kennedy said. “I also look forward to continuing to serve our community as part of the Blue Ridge Hospice team, and in helping to further our philanthropic growth. As interim CEO, I will be able to ensure a smooth transition once we are able to hire a permanent CEO.”

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ULYFL Helps Collect Sports Equipment Donations

7 p.m. at the Extension Office. Applications will be accepted through Oct. 25. Class size is limited. Applicants are accepted on a competitive basis based on qualifications of applicants in program areas. Loudoun residents receive priority. For an application, skills questionnaire, reference form, and more information, go to loudouncountymastergardeners.org/become-a-master-gardener/.

August 15, 2019

<< FROM 16

[ BIZ ]

August 15, 2019

A Change of Play? Indoor Spaces Closing Up

[ BIZ NOTES ]

BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ The closure of several area indoor play places has Loudoun parents scrambling for rainy day alternatives. In the past few months, parents and children alike have mourned the loss of Dulles’ Monkey Joe’s, Sterling’s Rebounderz, and, just last week, the Village at Leesburg’s Luv 2 Play. While the reasons for each closure are often undisclosed, Luv 2 Play’s abrupt closure in particular caught local parents by surprise. The location, which opened in late 2016, announced its closure the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 6 with an announcement that it was “being forced to close its doors, effective immediately,” and offering refunds to anyone who had booked future parties. This week, the business remained locked, but with all the business’ assets still visible inside. A message to the corporate office was not returned. The family entertainment center industry has seen an evolution over the past three decades, from the days of Chuck E. Cheese ball pits and McDonald’s playplaces to the current hot trends of indoor trampoline parks and bounce houses, high-end bowling and arcade entertainment centers, escape rooms and centers offering drop-in play. As experiential retail is the trend of the moment, it’s a global industry expected to surpass $40 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate topping 10 percent, according to data gathered by Allied Market Research. But with Loudoun’s surging population, and high concentration of young families, it can be somewhat surprising to see the recent closures of some once-popular businesses catering to younger children and eager parents looking for a cure for cabin fever. Tiffany Burfield was one of the early adopters of drop-in play in Loudoun County. After coming back to the U.S. following a dozen years in the U.K., she and her husband were looking to invest in a new business. With young children still at home in 2007, she found a dearth of options when she was seeking out indoor, drop-in play options. She opened

Kara C. Rodriguez/Loudoun Now

Love 2 Play in Leesburg is the latest indoor children’s activity center to close.

Chibis Indoor Playground in Ashburn four years later, and the business is celebrating its eighth year. It’s not an easy business to be in, she acknowledged, given the competition that has arisen in the area since its opening. She notes that she relies on parties to bring in 80 percent of the revenue she needs to keep the business running. And while rent grows by 3 percent a year, the customer base does not necessarily follow that same growth. The indoor play business is also solidly weather driven, finding itself most popular on days of extreme weather. Still, she counts herself lucky that Chibis is thriving and said customer loyalty and the business’ commitment to cleanliness, safety and doing what it does best is a big reason why. Unlike other competitors, Chibis has chosen to stay away from the food game, allowing customers to bring in outside, albeit nut-free, foods and snacks, and offering only packaged snacks and drinks for sale. “I don’t want to be a restaurant,” Burfield said. Following Luv 2 Play’s announcement last week, We Rock the Spectrum in Sterling, an indoor play place that caters to children of all abilities, used the moment as an opportunity to remind the local population that it’s still there, but needs support. “Running a small business in this area can be challenging and operating costs

are quite high,” a post on the business’ Facebook page read. “We don’t want to be another statistic…this is why we are asking for your support.” Getting the word out about one’s business is a challenge in Loudoun County, owner Anjali Gulati said, and the business relies on its loyal families to help spread the word about the inclusive play place. Gulati and her husband Manish opened the Sterling location in early 2018, offering a special space that, while open to all children, was designed to also cater to children with special needs. Gulati said that some months can be particularly hard, including during the summer when many families travel out of the area, but they do their best to think of out-of-the-box ideas to draw local families in. That can mean working with local medical providers to reach their patient base, arranging field trips for community groups or schools or hosting events like Parent’s Night Out or an upcoming Back to School Bash. The high rents charged in the area present its own problems, as well as the cost of insurance for the business, she said. As the family entertainment industry has, and will, continue to evolve, Gulati said she believes centers will continue to offer features that are more physically and mentally challenging, as well as an assortment of activities that cater to PLAY >> 19

Ashburn Ice House Marks 20 Years with Free-skate Community Event Ashburn Ice House is hosting “Skate N’ Celly” to celebrate its 20 years of serving the community on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The family event includes free skating and rental skates, mini lessons for first time skaters, a hockey shooting station with Washington Capitals mascot Slapshot, a skate session with a princess and an appearance by Snowplow Sam from 11:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m., skating and hockey demonstrations, children’s activities, giveaways, music and more. Also, Inova Blood Donor Services will be on hand collecting donations to ad-

Contributed

The Ashburn Ice House is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special community event, including free skating, on Aug. 24.

dress the local and national blood supply shortage. Those wishing to contribute should make an appointment at bit.ly/ AIH0824. Visitors also can enter a drawing to win a family four-pack of Washington Capitals tickets, skating- and hockey-themed gift baskets and complimentary skating passes. The drawing will take place at 1:15 p.m. and winners must be present to win. The first 100 attendees will receive a free T-shirt. Go to ashburnice.com/skatencelly to pre-register for the event.

Thalmann Featured at Estate Planning Council Breakfast Phil Blancato, president and CEO of Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, headquartered in New York City, will be the featured speaker at the Loudoun Estate Planning Council Breakfast Meeting on Aug. 23 from 8-10 a.m. at River Creek Club. Blancato’s “2019 Economic Update” will cover the state of the U.S. and global economy as it relates to investment markets. The presentation will cover positive and negative indicators of economic strength including the labor and housing markets, consumer strength, Federal Reserve, corporate earnings, industrials, and emerging markets. Attendees will learn tips on minimizing portfolio risk in the current market environment through diversification. Blancato is a 28-year veteran of the financial services industry with a specialized knowledge of portfolio and risk management, asset allocation, and macro-economic theory, as well as constructing and implementing seamlessly integrated platforms of fee-based solutions. He is often a resource for articles in The Wall Street Journal, frequently appears on CNBC, and speaks at industry conferences on topics such as investment management, portfolio risks and diversification, and alternative investments. LEPC is the local chapter of the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils and draws its membership from professionals in the fields of accounting, development, finance, law, and insurance. For more information and to RSVP for the Aug. 23 breakfast event, go to LoudounEPC.org or call Chris Breighner at 703466-0477.

Alpha Corporation Names Linehan as New President Alpha Corporation, a Dulles-based woman-owned engineering and construction consulting firm with offices throughout the country, has named Kathleen Linehan as its new president. Linehan, formerly vice president for Jacobs Engineering Group (formerly CH2M Hill) of Arlington, brings nearly 30 years of experience in the engineering consulting business. “We are entering an exciting new time at Alpha as we approach our 40th anniversary—expanding and innovating our services with a continued commitment to excellence,” said Kate Curtin Lindsey, board chairwoman and CEO. “KathBIZ NOTES >> 19

Inova Loudoun’s Ashburn ER Earns Lantern Award

Play << FROM 18 children of all ages. At We Rock the Spectrum, Gulati said she made a conscious choice to not offer activities that have screens, as she believes children get their fair share of screen time anyway. Perhaps one of the biggest challenges for family entertainment centers is the realization that “you can’t make everyone happy,” Burfield said. “It’s really difficult to be everything to everybody,” she said. “Places that try to do too much can get overwhelmed.” krodriguez@loudounnow.com

[ BIZ NOTES ] << FROM 18 leen brings the perfect blend of experience and know-how to lead us through the next 40 years … In addition, as a female CEO in an overwhelmingly male industry, I can’t help but note that Kathleen is a terrific role model for women and girls focused on STEM.” Linehan’s professional experience is a broad and deep mix of engineering and construction management. She led many Washington, DC construction projects, including as: program manager for the South Capitol Street Bridge and 11th Street Bridge project, project principal for the Virginia Department of Transportation Mega Projects, project advisor for St. Elizabeth’s Hospital East Campus, principal in charge of the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative and various roles for the Federal Highway Administration and DC Department of Transportation. Linehan is a registered professional engineer and earned her master’s degree in public administration from the George Washington University in Washington, DC and her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Marquette University in Minnesota where she serves on the Civil Engineering Advisory Council. Linehan is also on the executive committee for the Federal City Council and board of directors for the Anacostia Watershed Society. For more information about Alpha Corporation, go to alphacorporation.com.

Helping older adults and caregivers improve their quality of life.

Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging 703-777-0257 • loudoun.gov/aaa

Contributed

Nurses at the Inova Emergency Room – Ashburn celebrate their recent award from the Emergency Nurses Association.

safety and a healthy work environment. “Our specially trained ER team is extraordinary, providing excellent care to each person we have the privilege to serve,” said April Brown, the senior director of Inova Loudoun Hospital’s Emergency and Trauma Services. Inova Loudoun’s Wheeler Family Emergency Department in Leesburg, the Inova Children’s Emergency Room at Loudoun Hospital and the Inova Virts Miller Family Emergency and Trauma Center have previously been awarded the designation.

August 15, 2019

Inova Loudoun Hospital is a recipient of the Emergency Nurses Association’s 2019 Lantern Award for demonstrating exceptional and innovative performance in leadership, practice, education, advocacy and research at its Inova Emergency Room – Ashburn. It was one of 28 emergency departments nationally, and the only one in Virginia, to receive the designation. The Lantern Award showcases the emergency department’s accomplishments in incorporating evidence-based practice and innovation into emergency care and serves as a symbol of a commitment to quality,

[ OUR TOWNS ]

[ TOWN NOTES ] BLUEMONT

August 15, 2019

Volunteers Needed for Bluemont Fair Children’s Section

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

The Round Hill Planning Commission is recommending that the Town Council adopt a comprehensive plan amendment that will prepare for a utility service extension to the Weona Villa Motel property, along with two others.

Round Hill Commission Recommends Utility Service Extension to 5 Parcels BY PATRICK SZABO After a half-year of debate and a bit of resident concern, an idea to extend utility service to more properties outside the town limits is just a few steps away from becoming an official town policy. The town’s Planning Commission last week finalized a recommendation

for an amendment to the town’s 20172037 Comprehensive Plan that, if approved by the Town Council, would plan for the extension of town water and sewer service to three properties outside the corporate limits—including two where residential development has been proposed. The Town Council will begin its review of the issue at its Sept. 5 meeting, and will schedule a

public hearing for a later date before it votes on the amendment. The commission’s recommendation proposes the town consider extending utility service to three parcels on 20 acres along Airmont Road, the 7-acre Weona Villa Motel property along East Loudoun Street and a 12-acre property EXTENSION >> 23

Middleburg Community Looks to Raise $50K for Popular Cancer-Stricken FedEx Courier BY PATRICK SZABO In just four days, the Middleburg community rallied to raise $40,000 to support their favorite FedEx delivery driver. Sam Coleman has been delivering packages to Middleburg residents for about three decades. Upon learning that he was diagnosed with lymphoma, Realtor Helen MacMahon on Friday, Aug. 9 set up a GoFundMe page to raise money to support him during the trying time. By Tuesday at 2 p.m., the fundraiser had landed $40,571 in donations from 259 individuals—less than $10,000 away from the $50,000 goal. MacMahon said she created the page a few days after visiting Coleman and realizing that she wanted to help him and his family in some way. She said the funds go directly to Coleman and that they would help to pay for his living expenses and cancer

Contributed

Sam Coleman, Middleburg’s longtime FedEx driver, recently was diagnosed with lymphoma, prompting the community to raise $40,000 for him in four days.

treatments so that he doesn’t have to worry about day-to-day obligations and finances. “Everybody wanted to do something for him,” she said. “He’s obviously a leg-

end around here—this man is clearly loved by all walks of life in our town.” MacMahon said there’s a “tremendous amount of generosity” amongst the Middleburg community and that there’s even more money being funneled to Coleman in the forms of handwritten checks that she’ll deliver directly to him. She said Coleman and his family are “completely stunned by the outpouring of love and unconditional support.” Once the fundraiser reaches $50,000 on the GoFundme page, MacMahon said she’d most likely increase the goal limit. In addition to donations, residents can also send Coleman a card through the mail to 147 N. Cottage Road., Sterling, VA 20164. To donate, go to gofundme.com/f/ sam-coleman. pszabo@loudounnow.com

The Bluemont Community Center is seeking volunteers for the Children’s Fair section of the 50th annual Bluemont Fair on Sept. 21-22. Volunteers will get free admission to the fair and discounts on fair T-shirts. To register, go to signupgenius.com/ go/bluemontfair2019. For more information, email Leigh Ann Macklin at leigh.macklin@ loudoun.gov.

HILLSBORO Historical Society to Host Loudoun Quilt Talk The Short Hill Historical Society will host the next installment of its History Talks, Trips, and Treasures series at 2 p.m. this Sunday, Aug. 18 at the Between the Hills Community Center at 11762 Harpers Ferry Road. The nonprofit will feature a talk on the quilts of Loudoun County from award-winning quilter Priscilla Godfrey. Light refreshments will be provided. A suggested $5 donation per person is welcome. Godfrey, a charter member of the National Association of Certified Quilt Judges and treasurer for the Mason Dixon Professional Quilters Network, has been quilting for more than 40 years. She has also exhibited her quilts and won awards at National Quilting Association Annual shows throughout the U.S. and locally at Oatlands Plantation, among other venues. Her work has been exhibited at the Franklin Park Arts Center, the Leesburg Town Hall, the Purcellville Train Station, the Bluemont Fair, the Leesburg County Government Building and at the Purcellville Town Hall, where several of her quilts are currently displayed. To register for the talk, go to ShortHillHistoricalSociety.org.

TOWN NOTES >> 22

Purcellville Artist Merges Humans with Machines in Art Exhibit BY PATRICK SZABO

August 15, 2019 Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Purcellville artist Patricia Taylor Holz stands by her “Deus ex Machina” biomechanical digital portrait display in the Gum Spring Library, which will be on display through Aug. 31.

to work on independent films and on Broadway set designs. She worked on the first production of “The Lion King,” on “Beauty and the Beast” and as a painter, sculptor and director for The Muppets on Sesame Street. She later got a job working as a window designer for high-end department stores like Tommy Hilfiger and frequently traveled to stores in eight countries to set up their window displays. “My work took me around a lot,” she said. That lifestyle came to a close for Taylor Holz when she got married and started her family. At that point, she became an art teacher and taught at com-

munity colleges, community centers, churches and even Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. “I kind of had to redefine myself and reinvent myself,” she said. Now decades into her artistic career, Taylor Holz works as a painter, designer and freelance artist out of her home studio in Purcellville. Her “Deus Ex Machina” art exhibit, which she recently added onto with photos from residents at Star Wars Night, will be displayed in the Lovettsville Library from Sept. 3 to Oct. 31. She’s looking for Lovettsville locals ART >> 23

Loudoun Democrats’ Statement on Donald Trump’s Racism We realize we can’t respond to every tweet. But we also realize there are times when it’s important to stand up and speak out. This is one of those times. Let us be clear when we say that racism is an evil that divides our nation and makes us vulnerable to internal violence from white supremacists and external threats. This vulnerability played out in real time on the morning of Aug. 3 in El Paso, Texas. See the full statement here, https://loudoundemocrats.org/trumps-racism/

Authorized and Paid For by the Loudoun County Democratic Committee

The welcoming and brightly-painted murals and paintings found in galleries and public spaces across Loudoun might be inviting scenes to take in, but the darker and more intricate pieces included in Purcellville artist Patricia Taylor Holz’s “Deus Ex Machina” exhibit stimulates the senses in a more unusual way. Currently displayed at the Gum Spring Library in Stone Ridge, the exhibit includes close to 100 one-of-akind art pieces of individuals Taylor Holz photographed and merged with mechanical workings like gears, gauges, pipes and airplane parts. The blackand-white panels are displayed along a curved wall in the library and will continue doing so until Aug. 31. The works are a realization of an idea Taylor Holz hatched a few months ago, when the Loudoun County Public Library system asked her to create and display a piece of art at its July 20 Star Wars Night at the Rust Library in Leesburg. Taylor Holz said that in trying to figure out what the library wanted—something that would appeal to Star Wars and, more generally, Sci Fi fans—she decided to work on a piece that would portray cyborgs in a more personal way. To do that, she photographed 75 people who stopped by the Franklin Park Arts Center in June during the Western Loudoun Artists Studio Tour, focusing her shots on the human eye. “I always try to capture an expression,” she said.

She then headed off to the city to photograph the lunar module and other space program equipment at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC and submarines at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. After that, she took two weeks to compile the hundreds of photos and merge them to create images of humans in different stages of their transformations to machines—creating a paneled mural she said is a “biomechanical tapestry, like a keyboard.” “I was around the clock—I loved it,” she said about the work. “I would go hours without eating.” And going hours without eating is exactly what the subjects portrayed in her art display would do if they were real cyborgs—kind of like the characters in David Cronenberg’s 1999 movie “eXistenZ,” which inspired Taylor Holz. While that movie came out two decades ago, Taylor Holz’s art career began long before that. She has been drawing and painting as long ago as she can remember and, at the age of 9, was moved into an adult oil painting class. As she got older, she was set on becoming a production designer for film but was forced to go about that dream in a different way when she realized there wasn’t a specific production design area of study in the 1980s. Rather, production designers came from art and theater backgrounds. Knowing that, Taylor Holz found herself in the art and theater world, eventually earning a master’s degree in set and costume design and moving to New York City

August 15, 2019

[ TOWN NOTES ] LOUDOUN CHAMBER’S 2017 NONPROFIT OF THE YEAR

<< FROM 20

LOVETTSVILLE

OPEN HOUSE & ART SHOW SEPT 5

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 714 East Market Street, Leesburg Please join us in our new offices featuring the original artwork of Keith Patterson and the Claude Moore Nonprofit Training Center

CommunityFoundationLF.org | (703) 779-3505 | FacesofLoudoun.org

Final Love Summer Event on Saturday The Town of Lovettsville’s Love Summer events will cap off with a final event from 7-10 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 17 featuring a Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest, a screening of “Princess Bride,” family-friendly activities and food and beverage vendors. The chalk art contest will take place before the movie begins and will be judged by Mayor Nate Fontaine, Lovettsville Oktoberfest Queen Melissa Barton and “a very special guest,” according to Fontaine’s Aug. 2 Friday email. All registration fees will benefit the Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation. To entertain the kids, ZavaZone will bring out an inflatable that combines volleyball and basketball. There will also be multiple vendors—Lady K’s Catering will be selling food, Tarara Winery will be selling wine with 10 percent of their sales benefitting Stillbrave and the Lovettsville Lions Club will provide free snow cones. Palmercare Chiropractic will offer free spinal screenings and Lovettsville Summer on the Green shirts will be available for purchase during the event. The Lovettsville Cooperative Market will additionally be handing out a limited number of “coopons” for their new signature cookies made by the Blushing Cow Bakery, called Coopies. Coopons can be redeemed any Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lovettsville Seasonal Market at the Lovettsville Volunteer Fire and Rescue station. For more information, call the town at 540-822-5788.

Council to Discuss Priorities in Retreat on Sunday

BROAD SHADOW FARMS We are a new Private eventing barn based in Leesburg, VA, close to Morven Park Come board your horse & take lessons from our ICP certified instructor with many years of experience competing in the upper levels & training future event riders. We welcome haul-ins for lessons as well

The Lovettsville Town Council will convene for its annual retreat from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18. During the retreat, the council will review and update its existing priorities to align with the town’s fiscal year 2020 budget. Council members will review key challenges facing the town and identify key focus areas for improvement. If residents have ideas or priorities for the town, they are invited to send them to Administrative Specialist Lisa Mullen via email at clerk@ lovettsvilleva.gov. For more information, call the town at 540-822-5788.

MIDDLEBURG Loyal Companion to Host Dog Event

BROAD SHADOW FARMS Check out our website: www.broadshadowfarms.com or call Madison for more information: 517-712-7049

The Loyal Companion pet shop off Washington Street will host a Dog Days of Summer event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 17. Dogs are encouraged to stop in to pick up a frozen yogurt dog treat made by the Bear & The Rat while their owners talk with staff about ways to keep their pets cool during the hot summer months. Pets will also be treated to a

fun activity when they stop in. For more information, go to loyalcompanion.com or call 540-687-8727.

Library to Host Piñata Party The Middleburg Library will host a Summer Reading Piñata Party and grand prize drawing from 10:30-11:30 a.m. next Monday, Aug. 19. The party will commemorate the end of the library’s Summer Reading Program with an outdoor playtime, prizes and a piñata for kids to take a crack at. For more information on the event, go to library.loudoun.gov/LOCATIONS/ Middleburg or call 540-687-5730.

PURCELLVILLE Youth Football League Opening Day on Saturday Upper Loudoun Youth Football League will host its annual Jamboree Day to celebrate opening day of football and cheerleading from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 17 at Franklin Park. The event will feature team photo opportunities, concessions, a DJ, moon bounces, corn hole and other activities. The league will be partnering with Leveling the Playing Field, an organization driven to lower sports costs to give all children a chance to participate in the games they love, to collect sports gear for underprivileged kids living in the DC area. According to the league’s website, the rising cost of sporting equipment inhibits one in five underserved households from getting their kids involved in athletics. To learn more about the youth football league, go to ulyfl.com. To learn more about Leveling the Playing Field, go to levelingtheplayingfield.org.

ROUND HILL Yatton Road Water Loop Complete The town’s Yatton Road Water Loop project, which installed an 8-inch water line looping two mains running under the Rt. 7 bypass, recently completed, according to an Aug. 5 town statement. The project looped the water mains to feed homes in the town’s southern zone and installed a 4-inch raw water line connecting well 12 to the Westlake Water Treatment Plant. Now, if there is a single-line failure, the entire southern portion of town won’t be impacted by a lack of water service. The town can now shut off one line and serve residents with the other. Well 12 can also now be treated before being fed into the town’s water system. The town thanked residents in the southern area of town—specifically those in the Fallswood and Lake Ridge Estates neighborhoods and along Yatton and Airmont Roads and Hayman Lane—for their patience during construction. The town also recognized Fuog/InterBuild, Inc. for delivering the project under budget and ahead of schedule.

Extension

pszabo@loudounnow.com

Contributed

Patricia Taylor Holz's "Deus Ex Machina" merges humans with machines.

Art << FROM 21 willing to get their photos taken to be a part of the ever-growing exhibit. Beyond that, Taylor Holz said she would like to expand the piece to include the images of 500 people and is in talks with NASA’s outreach education coordinator about possibly displaying the piece at one of the federal organization’s venues, or maybe even at Dulles Airport or another museum in the area throughout winter. Those interested in being a part of the project may contact Taylor Holz directly at patotaylor1@yahoo.com or 610-551-2789. pszabo@loudounnow.com

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across from the motel. The recommended amendment proposes those utility extensions so the properties can support development of community recreation centers or public services; workforce, senior or universal design housing that would provide support services for seniors, the infirmed or disabled; and nursing homes, residential care or assisted living centers. Under the proposal, the town would consider extending utility service to the properties for those uses as long as they align with the goals, objectives and strategies of the comprehensive plan; don’t impact the integrity or authenticity of the town’s historic character; aren’t townhomes; and are built after making reasonable efforts to mitigate impacts on surrounding properties. The town would also need to determine that it has sufficient water and sewer capacity for any proposed use. If approved by the Town Council later this year, the comprehensive plan amendment would prompt the town and county to discuss a corporate boundary line adjustment and extension of the Joint Land Management Area to allow the town to serve the properties with water and sewer. It will give Tree of Life Ministries and developer John Clark a shimmer of

“I thought we were very responsive to the community’s concerns,” he said. “We are cognizant of the issues which have been raised about the possible future development.” Although the process to finalize the comprehensive plan amendment, which is now on its fifth version, has taken nearly double the amount of time that the Town Council directed it to take on March 28—originally slated for a public hearing and recommendation by June 20—Town Planner Lauren Runyan said the process was actually “very smooth.” Runyan said the commission took longer than it intended on the amendment because several commissioners missed meetings for family summer vacations, because Reed Mayer resigned in July and because commissioners wanted to ensure that the language in the amendment explicitly described the intent. “They had to be very careful in choosing their words,” Runyan said. She said the commission drafted the amendment in only three meetings and that commissioners during the final few meetings were focused merely on precise phrasing. Runyan said she would send the comprehensive plan amendment to council members and post it to the town website about a week prior to the Sept. 5 Town Council meeting.

August 15, 2019

<< FROM 20

hope in their efforts to build on two of the properties. On Feb. 7, Tree of Life Ministries Executive Director Paul Smith proposed to build a 32 micro-cottage community for low-income residents, like seniors, on the Weona Villa property. Smith said this week that his nonprofit appreciates the Planning Commission’s and Town Council’s efforts in working to amend the comprehensive plan. “Adjusting comprehensive plan language to enable consideration of additional parcels for water and sewer accessibility will help in our efforts to provide affordable housing for seniors and disabled adults,” he said. On March 7, Clark proposed to build 20 energy-efficient homes at 1,000 to 2,800 square feet in size that would benefit seniors and firsttime homebuyers on 20 acres of land across three parcels along Airmont Road. The Planning Commission did not consider the details of either of those tentative projects while drafting its recommended amendment. Planning Commission Chairman Manny Mirabal said the panel took into account and was “very respectful” of the concerns many residents had regarding the effects of potential development in the coming years, noting that many residents were upset by the county’s construction of the Round Hill Group Residence at the end of the Arrowwood Place culde-sac that Oak Hill Properties proffered in 1990.

[ LOCO LIVING ]

[ THINGS TO DO ]

August 15, 2019

Courtesy of Rowdy Ace Band

Friday on the Beach: Rowdy Ace Band Friday, Aug. 16, 5-8 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macdowellsbrewkitchen.com Rowdy Ace returns to MacDowell’s beach with a mix of favorite country and rock tunes. No cover.

Contributed

The Franklin Park Arts Center will exhibit original Bob Ross paintings from Sept. 10 to Oct 15

Franklin Park to Host First East Coast Bob Ross Exhibit LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT The Franklin Park Performing and Visual Arts Center in Purcellville will host the first exhibit of original Bob Ross paintings on the East Coast starting next month. The exhibit, “Happy Accidents: An Exhibit of Original Bob Ross Paintings,” is presented in partnership with Bob Ross Inc. and will feature 24 paintings. It presents a rare opportunity to see work Ross created during his famous and long-running series on public television. Ross started painting as a young

man after he was transferred to Alaska while serving in the Air Force. Having been raised in Florida, he was captivated by the snow, mountains and nature scenes, all of which would become favorite features in his paintings. Ross later returned to Florida, but he frequently visited the Bob Ross Inc. headquarters in Herndon for business meetings. He enjoyed antiquing and often found himself doing so in Purcellville. “It’s quite poetic that his first major exhibit would be in Purcellville,” said Bob Ross Inc. President Joan Kowalski. The exhibit runs Sept. 10 to Oct. 15,

from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and the weekends of Sept. 28-29, Oct. 5-6 and Oct. 12-13. Tickets are free, but there are a limited number available. They can be claimed at franklinparkartscenter.org. An opening reception is planned Sunday, Sept. 15, from 1-3 p.m. Admission to the reception is free and tickets are not required. The Franklin Park Arts Center is at 36441 Blueridge View Lane west of Purcellville. For more information about Ross, his work and Bob Ross Inc., go to bobross.com.

Main Street Theater Closes After Six Years BY JAN MERCKER For the past six years, Karlah and Arthur Louis have touched the lives of countless Loudouners through their nonprofit Main Street Theater Productions. When Arthur Louis died last month after a long illness, Karlah made a tough call: it was time to close the company. “It seems a lifetime ago that Arthur and I decided we wanted to open and run a theater company,” Karlah Louis wrote to Main Street supporters Aug. 10. “Main Street was born and it was our third child. ... We went through labor pains and for the first two years Arthur and I and our girls worked together side by side to get this company off the ground ...Very soon thereafter Arthur was diagnosed with his illness and Main Street became something different to each of us. I became the face and force behind it as Arthur pulled back his duties to become my support and the ‘producer’ paperwork guy.” Karlah and Arthur Louis fell in love while they were neighbors in Arlington in the mid-‘90s and moved to Loudoun in 1999. When Karlah left her award-winning career as a professional actor a decade ago, she began directing shows for other local companies. With encouragement from friends and fans,

Courtesy of Main Street Theater Productions

Karlah and Arthur Louis

she and Arthur eventually decided to start their own nonprofit company, with a goal of bringing high-quality, rigorously produced productions to Loudoun. Main Street put on its first show in 2013 and since then has consistently wowed audiences with its increasingly ambitious and sophisticated productions. Karlah Louis is known for her knack for drawing talented adults from around the region out of the woodwork and inspiring professional quality performances. In the past few years, the company has

taken several ambitious leaps, producing Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” in 2018 and ending its final season with the challenging classic “South Pacific.” Main Street and the Louises also touched the lives of hundreds of local children through annual performing arts summer camps and musicals at Harmony Middle School. With support from Arthur, her daughters Rachel and Sarah and her Main Street team, Karlah Louis fulfilled her commitment to dozens of young people enrolled in three Main Street performing arts camps this summer. Louis says she’ll serve as artistic director for a final musical at the school during the upcoming school year, but the planned 2019-2020 Main Street season has been canceled. For Karlah Louis, the focus will be on moving forward with her daughters, now 21 and 16. “My girls and I need to move forward into new careers and into new chapters of our lives. Without Arthur and the girls, Main Street can’t and wouldn’t exist to me... It seems fitting as our seventh season ends that we stop here,” Louis wrote. “Please wish my girls and me well as we leave one life behind and boldly step into our new ones. We will be here still... we will always be home on Main Street.”

Courtesy of the Plate Scrapers

Lovettstock Music Festival Saturday, Aug. 17, noon Quarter Branch Creek Farm, 40371 Quarter Branch Road, Lovettsville Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with a homegrown music and camping festival featuring live music from Caveman TV, The Plate Scrapers, The Short Hill Mountain Boys, Fractured Root Flying Machine and Gravel Quire. $30 donation includes camping. Gates open at noon. Music starts at 6 p.m.

Music Under the Stars: Southern Charm Saturday, Aug. 17, 6 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com Southern Charm is a modern country and classic rock-influenced cover band hailing from Frederick, MD. They’ll be playing wellknown country hits by Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Lady Antebellum, Gretchen Wilson, Shania Twain, Dixie Chicks and other favorites. Admission is free.

Doukenie Mandolin Wind Series: Firefall’s Rick Roberts and Larry Burnett Sunday, Aug. 18, 6 p.m., doors open; 7 p.m., concert begins Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com This seated event features iconic singer/songwriters Rick Roberts and Larry Burnett sharing stories, music and inspiration, with hits including “Cinderella” and “Just Remember I Love You.” Tickets are $50. Advance purchase is required.

Brambleton Summer Concert Series: The Reflex Thursday, Aug. 22, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Legacy Park, Olympia Drive, Brambleton

MORE THINGS TO DO >> 26

From Woodstock to Loudoun

BY JAN MERCKER

BUSCH >> 29

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Richard Busch, best known locally for his pottery works, has been spending time going through old photos from his days as a photographer in New York, including at the Woodstock festival in 1969.

Richard Busch

Richard Busch’s shot of this youth walking on the grounds at Woodstock was later used by Yippie co-founder Jerry Rubin as the cover for his book “We are Everywhere.”

Richard Busch Richard Busch

Richard Busch captured this shot of guru Sri Swami Satchidananda, who was the opening speaker at the Woodstock festival.

This shot of a woman in a tent was published in the LIFE special issue about the Woodstock festival.

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Things are pretty quiet at potter Richard Busch’s Glenfiddich Farm near Leesburg, and nature holds an important place in his work. But 50 years ago, Busch was a young photographer specializing in rock stars and hippies. This summer, Busch is spotlighting his dramatic black and white photos of the Woodstock music festival, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this week. “I wasn’t interested in the performances. I was interested in the peripheral stuff that was going on,” Busch said. “The things that I remember most are the energy, the people running around having a good time. It was a visual feast for the eyes.” For the past 20 years, Busch and his wife Olwen Woodier have made their home at the farm on a quiet lane west of Leesburg. But in the late ’60s, as a New York-based photographer, Busch was immersed in city life, shooting rock stars like Ike and Tina Turner, Jimi Hendrix, Roger Daltrey, Jerry Garcia and Mick Jagger, along with NYC street scenes and anti-war demonstrations. When Woodstock came around, of course he was there. Busch, now 78, started his career in journalism as a cub reporter for Life magazine in 1965. Part of his job as a young writer was to accompany the magazine’s photographers on shoots. Busch became captivated by the photographers’ art. He

August 15, 2019

Potter and Photographer Richard Busch Looks Back, Keeps Creating

[ THINGS TO DO ]

August 15, 2019

<< FROM 24 Details: brambletonhoa.com Brambleton closes out its summer concert series with favorite ’80s covers from The Reflex. Gates open at 6 p.m.

quilt judge Priscilla Godfrey discusses the history of Loudoun County quilts at the Short Hill Historical Society’s latest talk. Suggested donation is $5.

LIBATIONS Wine Tasting with Mary WatsonDeLauder

Friday, Aug. 16, 6:30 p.m. Black Olive Bar & Grill at the National, 18980 Upper Belmont Place, Lansdowne Details: conferencecenter.com Taste favorite wines with The National’s sommelier Mary Watson-DeLauder paired with small bites created by executive chef Frank Estremera. Tickets are $20. Advance reservations are required.

Endless Summer Cider and Brew Party Saturday, Aug. 17, 5-10 p.m.

Bird, Butterflies and Dragonflies at Bles Park

Market Station, 106 A South St. SE, Leesburg

Sunday, Aug. 18, 8:30 a.m.

Details: wildharecider.com

Bles Park, 44830 Riverside Parkway, Ashburn

Wild Hare Cider and Crooked Run Brewing celebrate summer with craft beer, cider, food for sale and live music from Daron Tapscott. Admission is free.

Details: loudounwildlife.org Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for a walk along the Potomac River in eastern Loudoun looking for birds, butterflies and dragonflies in this hidden gem of a park with a great mix of habitats. Event is free and open to the public. Bring binoculars if you have them.

History of Loudoun Quilts Sunday, Aug. 18, 2 p.m. Between the Hills Community Center, 11762 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: shorthillhistoricalsociety.org National Quilting Association certified

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Wine Kitchen Wine Blending Class Monday, Aug. 19, 7-9 p.m. The Wine Kitchen, 7 S. King St., Leesburg Details: thewinekitchen.com Learn how to blend your perfect red wine using several varietals while enjoying tasty hors d’oeuvres from the Wine Kitchen chef. This hands-on wine experience is a perfect date night or evening with friends. Cost is $75 and includes tax and tip. Advance registration is required.

MORE THINGS TO DO >> 27

[ THINGS TO DO ] Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville

<< FROM 26

2019 Polo in the Park!

This husband and wife duo from the Northern Neck return to Monk’s with their signature earthy, edgy, aggressive folk rock. No cover.

NIGHTLIFE Live Music: Jibraan Islam Friday, Aug. 16, 6-9 p.m. Blend Coffee Bar, 43170 Southern Walk Plaza, Ashburn

Live Music: Just South of 7

Details: blendcoffeebar.com

14 Loudoun, 14 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg

Enjoy acoustic pop, rock and R&B, combined with a unique approach to musical storytelling from this London native.

Details: facebook.com/14loudoun

Saturday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 p.m. Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com Husband and wife team Fiddlin’ Dave Van Deventer and Morgan Morrison have been rocking barn dances and Shenandoah Valley gatherings for over 20 years as a duo and as half of the Furnace Mountain Band. No cover.

Live Music: BulletBoys Friday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com Glam metal, hard rock and blues fusion elements. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of show.

Live Music: Mercy Creek Friday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m.

COMING UP World Heritage Festival and Festival of Kites Saturday, Aug. 24, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Photo by Bob Tobias

Visit PolointhePark.org for more details! Arena polo is every Saturday evening July 6 – August 24.

Tailgate spots available!

Visit PoloInThePark.org to purchase.

Bring a picnic, a blanket, and your favorite beverage to the terraced viewing area and sit back and enjoy an evening of polo! Gates open at 6 p.m. First match starts at 7 p.m. Featuring wine from Stone Tower Winery and food from Grubbers Food Truck and King Street Oyster Bar. Car passes are $35 in advance online, or $40 cash at the gate. Tailgate spots available.

Ida Lee Park, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg Details: chiceventsdc.com This annual festival features food from around the world, craft vendors, children’s activities and plenty of kites. Admission is free.

Chas Sumser Photography

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Lawn and Gap Bar Opens 6 p.m.

Friday, August 16

BEATLES NIGHT in The Gap

CAL EVERETT, TODD WRIGHT & TOM LOFGREN

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Friday, August 23

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This Leesburg-based six-piece dishes up guitar-driven rock covers from the ‘60s through today, from Johnny Cash to the Stone Temple Pilots and beyond.

Live Music: Fiddlin’ Dave and Morgan

Courtesy of BulletBoys

August 15, 2019

Details: monksq.com

August 15, 2019

SUMMER OF LOVE CAMPAIGN CAPS OFF WITH FESTIVAL

bulletboys 08/16/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

THE U2 SHOW! 08/17/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

TRIAL BY FIRE: JOURNEY TRIBUTE 08/24/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

THAT SEVENTIES PARTY W/ SUPERFLYDISCO! 08/31/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Cinderella’s tom keifer

Fifty years ago this week, more than 400,000 gathered on Max Yazgur’s 600acre farm in Bethel, NY to make rock and cultural history. On Saturday, a decidedly smaller crowd will converge on the 64-acre B Chord farm brewery near Round Hill for Loudoun’s own Summer of Love Festival. The event marks the end of a remarkable campaign by Visit Loudoun that invited locals and visitors alike to explore the county’s musical, craft beverage, culinary and cultural offerings. The tourism agency’s program was designed to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the landmark “Virginia is for Lovers” branding campaign, but the staff blend-

ed in a tribute to hippie culture as well. If you haven’t yet had your photo op with the Summer of Love VW microbus, Saturday’s concert will likely be the final opportunity. While the vintage bus has made appearances at dozens of community events over the past few months, the transmission dropped out a few weeks ago and it has been traveling on a tow truck to its recent stops. Headlining Saturday’s concert will be Michael Glabicki, of Rusted Root fame, performing with his new band Uprooted. Also on the bill are a roster of local favorites: Todd Wright, who composed a special theme song for the Summer of Love campaign; The Band-Changed and

Hungry on Monday. The event kicks off at noon, with music starting at 1:30 p.m. Among the craft beverage offerings are the Summer of Love beer by B Chord Brewing and Summer of Love wines by Tarara Winery. Food trucks, including Ford's Fish Shack, JolliJava, The Frenchman, and Two Smooth Dudes will be on site. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate. Patrons are asked to donate a non-perishable food item for Loudoun Hunger Relief 's food pantry for a chance to win a Summer of Love prize pack. For more details, go to visitloudoun.org.

Get Out Loudoun Best Bets

09/06/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

THE DARBY BROTHERS 09/13/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Live wire: THE ULTIMATE AC/DC experience! 09/14/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Beatlemania in the Gap

Groovalicious

The U2 Show

Big Bad JuJu

Cal Everett, Todd Wright & Tom Lofgren Friday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Hillsboro Old Stone School oldstoneschool.org

Ultimate Disco Revival Saturday, Aug. 17, 6–9:30 p.m. Tarara Winery tararaconcerts.com

Saturday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com

Village at Leesburg Plaza Party Saturday, Aug. 17, 6-8 p.m. villageatleesburg.com

Venue Partners

Tribute to prince: THE PURPLE Xperience 09/20/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

TRIBUTE TO PEARL JAM:

THE TEN BAND 09/21/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

BUMPIN’ UGLIES & TROPIDELIC 09/27/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Yacht rock night with boat house row 09/28/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Polo in the Park Saturday, Aug. 3, 6 p.m. Morven Park International Equestrian Center morvenpark.org

Passing his boards in veterinary pathology, Jack became a diplomat in the American College of Veterinary Pathologists in 1963. He served the Army in infections disease research, nutritional pathology and trained others in veteri-

Busch << FROM 25 got to know his colleagues and learned to shoot and print in Life’s darkroom. “1967 was the beginning of my plunge into the world of photography. I got deeper and deeper into it and it’s never left,” Busch said. “I’m still taking pictures.” By the time Woodstock came around in 1969, Busch was an established freelance photographer, with access to the backstage world of the festival’s musicians, along with all of the fascinating action around the edges. Busch and his then-girlfriend, entertainment journalist Robin Richman, to whom he was later briefly married, immersed themselves in the world of the festival. From organizers and stars to everyday people who flocked to the festival, including couples and families, Busch captured it all. Some of his best-known festival photos are shots of children and a series focusing on noted yoga master and Woodstock guru Sri Swami Satchidananda. Several of Busch’s shots were published in Life’s special issue on Woodstock. When the recession of the mid-1970s hit and freelance work started to dry up, Busch took a series of jobs in publishing. He worked as an editor at Popular Photography and was named editor-in-chief at the start-up in-flight magazine USAir. In the early 1980s, Busch took an editorial position at National Geographic Traveler magazine in Washington, DC, and his family moved from New York to Northern Virginia. Ceramics came into Busch’s life through a neighbor in Vienna, and what started as a few classes at a local community center turned into a second act passion. After a couple of years of classes, Busch acquired a wheel and kiln and began taking workshops with noted master potters. The next phase came when he was offered a buyout for early retirement from National Geographic. Busch’s retirement plan to focus on ceramics kicked in. He and Woodier found their idyllic farm in Loudoun and converted an 1840s barn into studio space, turning the stables into a workshop and showroom. “I just got serious about pottery and kind of plunged into it,” Busch said. “Doing ceramic work is extremely satisfying creatively. ... I’m constantly thinking about forms and color, decorative tech-

nary pathology. Leaving active duty in 1969, Jack became a Chief Pathologist for Hazelton Laboratories in Vienna, VA from 1969 to 1971. He was personally involved in the evaluation of pathologic alterations of lab animals involved in studies.

Together with colleague, Dr. William Busey, Experimental Pathology Laboratories was founded in 1971 in Herndon, VA. It grew from a two-person pathology practice to one of the leading independent pathology companies in the world. Through the years EPL INC has had other sites of operation in several US states and Europe. EPL provides pathology support to most major international pharmaceutical, biotech, agrochemical, and consumer product companies. In addition, EPL provides pathology services to EPA, FDA, NTP, and NIH.

niques. It just keeps going.” Busch is best known on the Loudoun arts scene as a potter, and ceramics occupies much of his day-to-day—he’s currently working on a series of plates using impressions of natural forms like branches and grasses. But photography remains an important force in Busch’s life, both in terms of new work and reevaluating and organizing older work. In the past few years, Busch has self-published several books of his work, organized thematically, and five of those collections were selected for the library at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The Museum of the City of New York has also added

HE T E V SA

! E T A D

In 1978, nearly a year before the preservation of research materials mandated by law by the FDA, Dr. Ferrell and Dr. Busey co-founded EPL Pathology Archives, INC. it is recognized as an industry leader in providing trusted managed bioreposity services. It is considered the first repository as a result of the FDA’s good laboratory practices regulations. Dr. Ferrell’s professional memberships include: American Veterinary Medical Association; International Academy of Pathology; American College of Veterinary Pathologists; Society of Toxicologic Pathologists as past president; Society of Toxicology; American College of Toxicology; and Directors for the Wildlife Center of Virginia on the Board of Director.

enjoyed skiing, golf and farming with his sons and especially his second home in La Quinta, VA. Survivors include his beloved wife of 53 years, Janis of Leesburg, VA, two sons, John K Ferrell of Bluemont, VA and Brian E Ferrell (Nicole) of Berryville, VA and Two Granddaughters, Charlotte and Emily. He also leaves his sister, Kathryn Shea of Newark, NY and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Jack’s will be held Friday, August 16 at 2 p.m. at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Cir. SE, Leesburg, VA. A reception to follow. His ashes will be placed at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date (Private).

Jack’s wonderful humor and with will be missed by all. He led an active life and

In Lieu of Flowers, Contributions may be made in his name to St. Jude’s Hospital Research, P.O. Box 1000, Dept 142 Memphis, TN 38148 or to the charity of your choice.

several of his NYC photos to its permanent collection. “I’m still going over them and rediscovering things I’d forgotten about. It’s one of the strange things I’ve learned about photography over the years: you go back and look at what you did 10, 20, 30 years ago, and you see things that you saw at the time, but it didn’t strike you necessarily that they were really great pictures,” Busch said. Reexamining his Woodstock photos in recent weeks has also been thought provoking and a little nostalgic, Busch said. “The [Woodstock] children are now in their 50s and 60s,” Busch said. “There’s a

sense of the passage of time. When you get to my age that’s a reality. You think about the passage of time and reflect.” But on a gorgeous summer day at Busch’s beautiful farm studio, there’s a sense of a life well-lived and the joy of making art in both of his beloved media. “It’s been a continuing process,” Busch said. “I don’t know where it’s going to end up, but it sure has been fun and interesting and exciting.” To check out more of Richard Busch’s Woodstock, rock ‘n’ roll and other photos, go to rfbphotos.com. For more information on Glenfiddich Farm Pottery, go to glenfiddichfarm.com.

LOUDOUN

RESTAURANT WEEK AUGUST 23-30, 2019 Loudounʼs restaurants are some of the ﬁnest in the region. Join with us as we take a week to celebrate while experiencing the BEST the Loudoun culinary community has to offer!

FOR DETAILS GO TO

loudounrestaurantweek.com loudounrestaurantweek.com

Dr. John Francis Ferrell, DVM passed away peacefully June 9, 2019 in the presence of family. The son of Dr. John Joseph Ferrell, DVM and Margaret R. Ferrell, he was born June 24, 1934 in Newark, NY. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jack graduated from NY State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University in 1958. After a post graduate internship at Cornell, Jack entered the Army in 1960.

[OBITUARY]

August 15, 2019

Dr. John Francis Ferrell

August 15, 2019

Legal Notices PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The Town of Leesburg will accept sealed proposals in the Procurement Office, 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176, until 3:00 p.m. on September 10, 2019 for the following:

Case No.:

RFP No. 100120-FY20-10 Lease of Town-Owned Personal Property (Mighty Midget Semi-Permanent Kitchen Structure) The Town is soliciting sealed proposals from individuals or businesses to lease and maintain Town-owned personal property, specifically, the “Mighty Midget” semi-permanent kitchen structure. A pre-proposal meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at 202 Harrison Street SE, Leesburg, VA 20175. Attendance at the pre-proposal meeting is encouraged, but not mandatory. For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard

CA 19-18

Loudoun County Circuit Court 18 East Market St. Leesburg, VA 20176 Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Rachel Stephanie Aguilar Flores The object of this suit is to: The adoption of Rachel Stephanie Aguilar Flores by Carlos Antonio Portillo Portillo It is ORDERED that Carlos Baltazar Aguilar Suarez, appear at the abovenamed court to protect his interests on or before Sept. 6, 2019 at 10:00 am. 07/25, 08/01, 08/08 & 08/15/19

Notice of Public Hearing

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE §§ 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104

Case No.:

CL19-1554, CL19-1555

Loudoun County Circuit Court 18 East Market St. Leesburg, VA 20176 Priscilla Nmashie, v. George Marquaye The object of this suit is to: Notify defendant of name change of children. From: Qu Nii-Qorley Marquaye To Qu Nii-Qorley Nmashie From: Naaki Afia-Dufie Marquaye To Naaki Afia-Dufie Nmashie. It is ORDERED that George Marquaye, appear at the above-named court to protect his interests on or before Oct. 4, 2019 at 2:00 pm. 08/08, 08/15, 08/22 & 08/29/19

The Lovettsville Town Council will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, August 22, 2019 at 7:30 PM at the Lovettsville Town Hall, 6 Pennsylvania Avenue, to receive comment on a proposed Resolution to commit 20% financial match for any awarded grant funds for the East Broad Way Phase 2A Streetscape Project. Resolutions must be included in the VDOT Transportation Alternative Program Grant Funding applications due October 1, 2019. For more information please call the Town Hall at (540) 822-5788. 8/8/19 & 8/15/19

A message to elderly and disabled Loudoun County residents from Robert S. Wertz, Jr. Commissioner of the Revenue

Please visit our website or contact my office for information or filing assistance.

7-Eleven Inc and Sakria LLC, trading as 7-Eleven 40052A, 43305 Junction Plaza, Ashburn, Virginia 20147

Leesburg Office 1 Harrison Street SE First Floor Sterling Office 21641 Ridgetop Circle Suite 100

The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine and Beer Off Premises licnse to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.

Internet: www.loudoun.gov/taxrelief

David Seltzer, VP, 7-Eleven Inc and Chinta Sharma, Manager Member, Sakria LLC

Phone: 703-737-8557

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. 08/15/19 & 08/22/19

Water mains are flushed by opening fire hydrants and allowing them to flow freely for a short period of time. The flushing cleans out sediment, removes air which may accumulate in the water mains and restores chlorine levels in areas of limited use, thereby, reducing the potential for bacteriological contamination. Water is safe to drink and safe to use during flushing. However, flushing may result in temporary discoloration and sediment in the water. If discoloration or sediment is evident, the Town recommends residents avoid doing laundry until the discoloration subsides. Flushing may also introduce air into the water, which may temporarily cause erratic flow. Some residents and businesses may experience lower pressure during the flushing in their neighborhood. The Town regrets any inconvenience the flushing operation may cause.

08/15/19 06/13/19

Town of Lovettsville – Resolution for Funding Requests to VDOT for Streetscape Projects

Residents 65 and older or totally and permanently disabled who wish to apply for 2019 Personal Property (vehicle) Tax Relief for the first time must submit an application to my office by the September 3, 2019 filing deadline.

ABC LICENSE

The Town of Leesburg will conduct controlled flushing of water mains throughout the Town beginning June 1 through November 30th, 2019. This preventative maintenance program is essential for maintaining the Town’s high standards of water quality.

Please call the Utilities Department at 703-737-7075 for further information. For after-hour emergencies, call the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500.

8/8/19 & 8/15/19

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

TOWN OF LEESBURG DEPARTMENT OF UTILITIES NOTICE OF WATER MAIN FLUSHING

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE §§ 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104

Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, M - F

Email: trcor@loudoun.gov Mailing Address: PO Box 8000, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20177-9804 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/19

Town of Leesburg Continues Water Valve Exercise and Maintenance Program Public Notification The Town of Leesburg is continuing a preventative maintenance program to protect the longevity and operation of the water system infrastructure and valves. This consists of a valve exercise program, which requires closing, then opening each main line valve and service line valves in specific distribution areas. The purpose of the program is to exercise main line valves throughout the distribution system to assure reliable operation and maintain water quality. During this program crews will exercise the valves by operating the valve through a full cycle and returning it to its normal position. Where valves are exercised, a fire hydrant will be flowed to ensure that the water in the main remains clear. During the valve turning exercise customers may experience some sediment or discolored water for a short period of time. Water is safe to drink and safe to use during this period. If this condition is noticed we recommend running several cold water taps at full force for a period of 1-2 minutes which should remove any discoloration from the water. It may be necessary to repeat this process after 30 minutes in some cases. In addition, the closing and opening of valves may introduce air into water lines which can cause temporary erratic water flow. The valve exercising will occur June through November during the hours of 7:00am – 2:30pm, Monday through Friday. The Town regrets any inconvenience the maintenance program may cause. If you have any questions regarding our valve exercising program, or have any concerns about water quality, please call the Utilities Department at 703-737-7075. For after-hour emergencies, please call the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500. 08/15/19

06/13/19

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. MAKE 2005 RAM MAZDA 1997 FORD 08/08/19 & 08/15/19

MODEL 1500 PROTÉGÉ 5 F150

VIN 3C63R3NK95G422524 JM1BJ246231213515 1FTDX1862VKB32975

STORAGE ROAD RUNNER WRECKER BODY WORKS BLAIRS TOWING

PHONE# 703-450-7555 703-777-5727 703-661-8200

Legal Notices

LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE BIDS FOR: RENOVATION OF THE STERLING COMMUNITY CENTER, IFB (RFQ) No. 101780, until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, September 18, 2019.

LVZA 2019-0001

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at the project site, 120 Enterprise Street, Sterling, Virginia 20164, PIN 022-26-9101, and PIN 022-16-8176, on August 21, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. for clarification of any questions on the Project scope of work, specifications, and site conditions. Inspection of the site will be included in the Pre-Bid Conference.

Zoning Ordinance Amendment to Article X (Landscaping, Buffering and Screening)

Consideration of an amendment to Article X (Landscaping, Buffering and Screening) amending the following sections as described below: Section 42-360. Applicability: Requires all applications for site plans and subdivision construction drawings to include the submission of a landscape plan and installation of landscaping, buffering and screening as applicable. Requires the submission of a landscape plan for all requests for a conditional use permit or zoning map amendment for which landscaping is required by the terms and conditions of such approvals. Requires a landscape plan for the construction or expansion of a parking lot whenever a site plan is required for said construction or expansion. Section 42-362. Landscape plan and maintenance. For any conditional use permit or zoning map amendment, the amendment authorizes the Planning Commission to recommend and the Town Council to approve a modification or alternative to the landscaping, buffering and screening required by this article where conditions are deemed to warrant approval of the same. Section 42-365. Tree canopy coverage: For any conditional use permit, the amendment authorizes the Planning Commission to recommend and the Town Council to approve reasonable conditions with respect to implementing the tree canopy requirements of this section. Section 42-369. Modifications and alternatives: Authorizes the Town Council to approve alternatives and modifications to the requirements and standards of this article provided the Council determines that such a proposal meets or exceeds the standards of this article or accomplishes the purpose and intent of the article to equal or greater degree of the applicable standard for which the modification or alternative is being requested. LVZA 2019-0002

Zoning Ordinance Amendment to Article XI (Signs)

Consideration of an amendment to Article XI (Signs), Section 42-405 (Signs in commercial and light industrial districts), Paragraph (c) in order to amend the requirement for signs for individual establishments located within developments containing multiple establishments. The amendment states that separate pole or monument signs for individual establishments shall not be permitted on any such property whereupon a multiple business establishment sign is approved or constructed, and that not more than two separate pole or monument signs for individual establishments shall be erected on any property containing multiple establishments. The amendment also clarifies the minimum front yard setback requirement for multiple establishment signs in subsection (1). The proposed zoning amendments are available for review at the Town Office between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm during weekdays or by special appointment, holidays excepted. Call (540) 822-5788 for more information or contact Joshua A. Bateman, Planning Director at jbateman@ lovettsvilleva.gov. In the event the meeting is postponed, the public hearing will be convened on the next regularly-scheduled meeting at the same time and place.

Solicitation forms are available by downloading them from the website at www.loudoun.gov/procurement at no cost. Solicitation forms may also be picked up at the Division of Procurement at 1 Harrison Street, 4th Floor, Leesburg, Virginia 20175 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. weekdays or call (703) 777-0403. WHEN CALLING, PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY TYPE OF DISABILITY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCUREMENT. 8/15/19

PUBLIC NOTICE OF SELECTION OF PROJECT BASED VOUCHERS (PBV) PROPOSALS In accordance with 24 CFR 983.51(d), the Loudoun County Department of Family Services (DFS), a Public Housing Agency (PHA) for the purpose of administering the Federal Housing Choice Voucher program of which the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program is a part, hereby provides public notice of the selection of a PBV proposal to provide housing under the PBV program. All submitted PBV proposals were evaluated in accordance with the Loudoun County DFS Administrative Plan for Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) adopted by the Board of Supervisors on May 3, 2016, as may have been subsequently revised. The selected PBV proposal is as follows:

Project

Owner

Number of PBV Units

Ashburn Chase

Ashburn Chase LLC and Ashburn Chase II LLC

Selection records and documentation for the basis of selection of the above-referenced PBV proposal are available for public inspection at the Loudoun County Department of Family Services, 102 Heritage Way, N.E., Suite 103, Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Inquiries by email can be directed to sarah.coyleetro@loudoun.gov or by telephone to 703-777-0387. 8/8/19 & 8/15/19

Employment

8/8/19 & 8/15/19

JOIN A DYNAMIC TEAM!

TOWN OF LEESBURG ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID IFB NO. 07315-FY20-12 BATTLEFIELD PARKWAY – RTE 15 TO DULLES GREENWAY TREE INSTALLATION PROJECT SEALED BIDS to construct the above project WILL BE RECEIVED by the Office of Capital Projects for the Town of Leesburg, either by mail or hand delivered to the First Floor Lobby Receptionist, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176, UNTIL BUT NO LATER THAN 3:30 P.M. ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 22, 2019. Bids shall be marked “Sealed Bid for Battlefield Parkway – Rte 15 to Dulles Greenway Tree Installation Project Bid Date–Thursday, August 22, 2019 – 3:30 P.M.” Bids will be opened and read aloud at 25 West Market Street, Lower Level Conference Room 2, at that date and time.

Blue Ridge Hospice has an opening for a Retail Associate in our Leesburg Store. $11.00 per hour-starting pay (additional with retail experience)

Please visit blueridgehospice.org to apply or stop by the store at 57 Catoctin Circle NE Leesburg Plaza, Leesburg Va 20176

All questions regarding this bid must be submitted in writing via email to CapitalBidQuestions@leesburgva.gov until but no later than 5:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 15, 2019. Work includes proper nursery selection, pre-installation tilling of existing soil, placement of new soil for extended tree beds, proper tree installation, mulching and watering, and care of trees for one year (warranty). The Town reserves the right to perform all, part, or none of the work. Bid Documents are available for download from the Town’s Bid Board at http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard. Contact Cindy Steyer at 703-737-2302 or csteyer@leesburgva.gov with questions about obtaining these bid documents. Any addenda issued for this project will be posted on the Town’s Bid Board and eVA (https://eva.virginia.gov) with a courtesy email to those firms who have registered on the Town’s Bid Board. It is the bidders’ responsibility to provide a correct email address and to be aware of any addenda. Terry Yates, P.E., Manager Office of Capital Projects

8/15/19

CDL DRIVER NEEDED Commercial Concrete, Inc. located in Chantilly, Virginia is seeking Full Time Class A Driver to work from 6:30 am to 5:00pm Monday thru Friday and after hours if necessary. We are a flat work concrete and asphalt construction Company and snow removal contractor. We require Valid CDL License, with good driving record. Must have previous experience driving dump truck pulling a trailer full of equipment and when needed drive a roll-off truck. Knowledge of Northern Virginia area would be helpful. Pay commensurate with experience. Please call Lisa O’Neal at 703-957-4914.

The Lovettsville Town Council will hold a public hearing on the following items at their meeting at 7:30 pm on August 22, 2019 at the Lovettsville Town Office located at 6 East Pennsylvania Avenue:

August 15, 2019

Notice of Public Hearing Town of Lovettsville Town Council

Employment

August 15, 2019

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

I-CARE Celebrates 26 Years Of Service

Position

Department

Salary Range

Closing Date

Deputy Director of Public Works and Capital Projects

Public Works and Capital Projects

$86,040-$147,299 DOQ

Open until filled

*SIGN ON BONUS*

Emergency Management Coordinator

Town Manager’s Office

$93,438-$159,968 DOQ

Open until filled

Earn 25K-65K per year!

Library Genealogy Associate

Thomas Balch Library

$48,295-$83,085 DOQ

Open until filled

Police Crime and Traffic Analyst

Police

$61,857-$105,896 DOQ

8/31/2019

Police Officer (Recruit)

Police

$53,233-$89,590 DOQ

8/31/2019

Police Officer (Virginia Lateral)

Police

$53,233-$98,772 DOQ

Open until filled

Senior Engineer

Public Works and Capital Projects

$70,374-$120,339 DOQ

Open until filled

Storm Water and Environmental Manager

Public Works and Capital Projects

$82,999-$141,929 DOQ

Open until filled

Utility Inspector II

Utilities

$56,956-$97,512 DOQ

Open until filled

Utility Plant Operator: Trainee, I, II or Senior

Utilities- Water Pollution Control

$41,353-$89,790 DOQ

Open until filled

Hourly Rate

Closing Date

We are looking to hire qualified and CAREing LPN, CNA, & PCA’s. Come learn about I-CARE at our weekly Lunch & Learn sessions with Larry at our Loudoun County office. RSVP at info@icareinc.com Or Text Larry at 703-865-5893 icareabouthealth.net

Flexible Part-Time Positions Position

Department

Library Administrative Associate

Thomas Balch Library

$19.52-$33.42 DOQ

Open until filled

Library Associate or Senior Library Associate

Thomas Balch Library

$21.20-$37.55 DOQ

Open until filled

Maintenance Worker

Utilities

$17.12-$28.24 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.

Earn $12-18/hour in a rewarding career. If you are looking to begin a career in the healthcare industry, and don’t know where to start, go to icare2aide.com for more information on how to become a personal care aide.

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Dulles Insurance - Erie Insurance in Leesburg has 2 current openings

NOW HIRING FLAGGERS Full time, to provide traffic control & safety around construction sites. A valid driver license & clean driving record a must. Starting $13/hr & scheduled raises & bonuses. Company-paid medical & dental premiums. Please fill out an application at careers.trafficplan.com or come to our office on Tuesdays or Thursdays (8am-10am) 7855 Progress Ct. Suite 103, Gainesville, VA

1. Licensed P&C Personal Lines agent 1-2 years exp servicing our clients 2. Receptionist-CSR (entry level) * If you are outgoing friendly *Great Attitude *Spanish a plus *Great Typing Skills *10-12/hour Hours FT or 10-3pm Contact:

Nick • 703-220-2408 Or send resume to

Nick@dullesins.com Home Care Agency needs CAREGIVERS in Vienna!

Loudoun County Public Schools Facilities Services Job Opportunities Visit our website: www.lcps.org Select jobs(careers)/current vacancies/advanced search/job category/facilities services Salary depends on qualifications Facilities Services - 571-252-2960 Job Posting #

Position

Location

Salary Range

Closing Date

IRC4364

Electrician

Facilities Services

$43,505 - $82,621

Open Until Filled

IRC5628

School Plant Engineer

Facilities Services

$40,761 - $77,216

Open Until Filled

IRC6475

HVAC Controls Tech. I

Facilities Services

$46,451 - $88,310

Open Until Filled

IRC6484

HVAC Controls Tech. II

Facilities Services

$56,530 - $108,102

Open Until Filled

IRC5630

Plumber

Facilities Services

$43,505 - $82,621

Open Until Filled

IRC6363

Preventive Maint. Tech.

Facilities Services

$38,181 - $72,115

Open Until Filled

IRC5631

General Maint. Worker I

Facilities Services

$35,783 - $67,462

Open Until Filled

IRC6072

Custodian

Facilities Services

$27,574 - $51,755

Open Until Filled

IRC6499

Energy Manager

Facilities Services

$77,653 - $117,455

8/28/19

IRC6362

Accounting Tech.

Facilities Services

$46,451 - $88,310

8/19/19

Call 703-530-1360 and ask for Anne. homestead.com/507/homecare-jobs to begin!

Attention Loudoun County! Home Instead Senior Care is looking for caring and compassionate CAREGivers to become a part of our team and join our mission of enhancing the lives of aging adults throughout the Loudoun county community. Home Instead provides a variety of nonmedical services that allow seniors to remain in their home and meet the challenges of aging with dignity, care and compassion.

Why should you join Home Instead Senior Care? • Very rewarding - meet wonderful people, build fulfilling relationships, and make a difference in the lives of our clients. • Paid training in healthcare-industrybest practices. • Flexible scheduling - perfect for retirees, stay-at-home moms, or students. • Great supplemental income Call us today at 703.530.1360 or visit homeinstead.com/507/home-carejobs to begin!

HELP WANTED Carpenter/Carpenter Helper to work on decks & porches throughout Loudoun County. Must have own transportation. Call 703-304-8134

Loudoun Now Employment Ads Post your job, get responses. 703-770-9723

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[ OPINION ]

August 15, 2019

The Learning Curve As the 70 candidates running for local and state offices prepare to gear up their campaigns for the fall spring to the Nov. 5 elections, current office holders are beginning work on their most important annual task. So far, there is a rosy tint to the Fiscal Year 2021 forecast as the county continues to ride the revenue wave generated by the unprecedented data center land rush that is driving land values to previously unimagined heights. But even with that trend expected to continue, the School Board learned this week that the district is likely to need a $100 million increase in local tax funding to achieve its programmatic goals in the next budget cycle. Both the school system and the county government are working to increase pay scales as competition for workforce talent continues to increase. But even those programs may fall short; despite offering the top starting salary for beginning teachers, Loudoun will start the school year next week with several classroom positions still unfilled. And that is just one element of the targeted budget expansions on tap. While candidates for local office should be getting up to speed on those choices, General Assembly candidates should put a focus on ways to increase the portion of tax revenue that is returned to Loudoun. This is especially critical in the area of transportation, where requirements to ensure the quality of life and support business growth have prompted the local government to invest heavily in the construction and improvement of state roads. In the current Capital Improvements Program, the county government expects to spend twice as much on road construction (a state responsibility) than it will on school construction (a local responsibility). The next School Board, which will include at least six freshman members, will receive the superintendent’s proposed budget eight days after taking office Jan. 1. The new county board will start its budget review just weeks later. The General Assembly members also will have a steep learning curve, with 60 days to debate and adopt the state budget covering the next two years. There certainly will be other issues that stir the passions of partisans and generate clever soundbites, but successful public service is built on fiscal stewardship.

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[ LETTERS ] The Problem Editor: It took only minutes for the Democrats to begin hollering about gun control in the wake of the shootings in El Paso and Dayton. And, of course, the left-leaning media wasted no time in interviewing those who blame President Trump and the NRA. Oh, and “white supremacists,” whoever they may be? Sadly, few are blaming Congressional Democrats, who are solely responsible for the immigration debacle that led to the El Paso incident. The Dayton gunman, of Democrat affiliation, wasn’t likely a “white supremacist,” but facts don’t matter, do they? But wait, how many people were murdered and wounded in that same time span in St. Louis, Baltimore, New Orleans, Detroit, Cleveland, Memphis and Newark? I can tell you it was more than in El Paso and Dayton, combined—a hell of a lot more. But those victims don’t receive any foaming at the mouth media attention, do they? Nor do the Democrat 2020 hopefuls make any reference to them. Even the president and the “white supremacists” aren’t blamed for it. Why is that? Is it because most of the victims are black? Should that matter? Is it because they weren’t all murdered and wounded in the same venue? Should that matter? Is it because single, double and triple inner city homicides don’t count in the Democrats’ eyes,

since the cities with the highest murder rates happen to be cities with Democrat mayors and Democrat city councils? Is it because they don’t want to call attention to the fact that this supposed threat from “white supremacists” is miniscule compared to the murders that go on every day, committed by non-whites? The liberals are hysterical over “white supremacy,” when the statistics (FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting and other analyses) reveal quite clearly that they are responsible for a tiny fraction of the murders committed. Does anyone really believe that “white supremacists” are doing the shooting in the four cities (St. Louis, Baltimore, New Orleans and Detroit) with the highest numbers of murders per 100,000 population? Not bloody likely. So how can the Democrats fix the problem when they can’t even identify it? A recent letter to this paper noted with great satisfaction how Australians solved their gun dilemma; as usual from that particular author, he misses the point entirely. Australia doesn’t have dozens of high murder rate cities self-destructing under the “leadership” of corrupt Democrat mayors, city councils and their completely dysfunctional method of failed governing. The lion’s share of murders in the U.S. are not a “white supremacist” problem, nor a gun ownership problem—they are a peculiarly Democrat problem. —MB Cranshaw, Aldie

Share Your Views Loudoun Now welcomes letters to the editor. Letters should include the name, address and phone number of the writer and should be a maximum of 500 words. Letters may be sent by email to letters@ loudounnow.com or by mail to PO Box 207, Leesburg, VA 20178.

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JITTERS >> 38

Unexpected Benefits of Leaving Facebook BY CHRIS CROLL

Stress Reduction

When I recently quit Facebook, reactions from friends were mixed. Several friends jokingly accused me of abandoning them, a few congratulated me, and others admitted they wished they could leave social media, too, but they just didn’t think they could do it. I’m here to tell you that it’s easier than you might think and there are many benefits to doing so. Maybe a complete break isn’t possible for you but taking a week or month-long hiatus from social media might help you in ways you don’t expect. If we can have “No-Shave November,” maybe we can institute “Facebook-Free February” or “Analog April.” Let’s start a movement— though we’d likely have to use Facebook to start an anti-Facebook movement. Oh, that Zuckerberg has us right where he wants us! Before I share some of the unexpected benefits I’ve experienced from taking a social media break, I must, in full disclosure, admit that I did keep my Facebook account live but with no friends (except my husband). I still access Facebook once or twice a week for 5-10 minutes to get updates on local news and events. I also predict I will be accessing the Jay’s Wintry Mix Facebook page once the season changes this fall. Considering I used to spend 3-4 hours on FB every day for work and personal business, this reduction represents a major shift for me. But in addition to gaining back time in the day, there are other reasons to take a break.

After the initial panicky feeling of, “Will I ever hear from my friends again?” subsided, I felt immediately less stressed after unfriending everyone. An invisible weight had been lifted off my shoulders that I didn’t even realize was there. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) disappears when you make the decision to put your own mental well-being ahead of your need to stay in the know. If this anecdotal evidence isn’t enough to convince you to take a break, there was a study published in The Journal of Social Psychology last year which confirmed that users who quit Facebook demonstrated an immediate reduction in stress.

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The school supply lists are published, the stores are full of supplies, and students are beginning to feel the worry about back-to-school. Each year brings new stresses, both to parents and students. I’ve heard dozens of stories about the new password system in Loudoun and how frustrating it can be just to log in to the system to view email, check schedules, and see which friends are in which classes. Technology has brought a new level of stresses to an already stressful time of year. It is a stressful time of year, absolutely. Our goal, as parents, is to do what we can to decrease that stress without taking over. Our children need to learn how to navigate their lives and should be involved in the details. Depending on their age, every child should be able to participate in most aspects of the preparations. For instance: No matter how tempting it might be to just get the back-to-school shopping done on your own, make sure to include your child. It’s important to get their input. They will definitely have an opinion on what looks good and what they will never be caught wearing. Sit down together to work on the technology side of school. There will be logins to memorize, schedules to review, and forms to fill out. Yes, your

child might find it boring, but it is important that they know the information, especially when it comes to the student rights and responsibilities. By the way, if you don’t yet know what a Juul is and what it looks like, take a moment to search online. It’s not a USB memory stick, which is what many students try to convince their parents when caught with one. Even if you think your child would never use one, it is always best to be prepared. Some of these suggestions will help your child feel more prepared for school, but most will still feel quite a bit of worry. What if I don’t know anyone? What if it’s too hard? What if my teacher is mean? Who will I sit with at lunch? Our first reaction to these worries is to reassure. My suggestion is: Don’t jump to reassurance right away. Here’s a step by step process you can try when your child has expressed a worry: 1. Indicate that you understand they are worried. 2. Ask if they have dealt with similar worries in the past. 3. Encourage them to brainstorm solutions. 4. Let them know that you have confidence in their bravery.

August 15, 2019

First Day of School Jitters

In the right environment, it's amazing what you can do.

August 15, 2019

Staff, Council Consider Multiple Traffic Hurdles Downtown BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ Drivers, beware: Upcoming construction projects are likely to make traffic in downtown Leesburg dicey in the months—and years—ahead. Two major developments, along with two sidewalk capital projects, could create disruption for drivers and pedestrians alike as early as next year. That’s what Renee LaFollette, director of the town’s Public Works and Capital Projects Department, told Town Council members during a preview at their Monday night work session. The Loudoun County Courthouse expansion project, between Market and Church streets, is expected to last twoand-a-half to three years, and the Board of Supervisors as early as next month is expected to award a construction contract. An archaeology study and demolition of houses along Edwards Ferry Road will occur first, by late this year or early 2020, LaFollette said. Just down the road, construction of the Church & Market project, if approved by the Town Council, would likely overlap with the courthouse project. If approved by the council, LaFollette said she expects design plans to be submitted by the developer this fall, with approval to take 9-12 months before construction kicks off. The project proposes a 116-unit residential building with retail uses and an office component in the former Loudoun Times-Mirror building off Market Street. Two sidewalk projects could also add to the chaos. The West Market Street sidewalk project will require a complete closure of Market Street between the west “Y” and Ayr Street for two-and-a-half

Jitters << FROM 37 For instance, your fourth grader is worried that she won’t have any friends in her class, and that she’ll be lonely and scared the first day. Our first reaction tends to be something like: “I’m sure you will have friends in the class. Don’t worry.” Instead let’s try the fourstep process: 1. You’re really worried about this, aren’t you? 2. How did you deal with this worry last year? 3. Is there anything you can do today to make you feel better? 4. I know it takes a lot of bravery to go to the first day of school. Now, we’ll try this with a high school student. For instance, your 10th grader will be taking a very difficult math class and doesn’t have much confidence he will do well: 1. You’re not so sure about how you are going to do in math this year and it’s got you really worried. 2. Were you worried about any classes

months in summer 2020. The Edwards Ferry Road sidewalk project was recently accelerated a year ahead of schedule by the council and is now set for construction in spring 2021. A staff report notes that Edwards Ferry Road will be one of the haul routes for construction delivery to the courthouse project and will require critical communication and coordination between town and county staff members for their delivery schedules. A large public education effort will be needed to inform motorists of traffic, road closure impacts and parking availability changes for any motorists traveling into or through downtown at the height of construction for the projects, LaFollette said. Councilman Tom Dunn emphasized that the town does not want to create a reason for visitors or residents to stop patronizing downtown businesses because of the disruptions. Vice Mayor Marty Martinez wondered whether the upcoming construction projects and their resulting changes to the downtown landscape make for a good time to revisit past talks of restricting Loudoun and Market streets to oneway traffic. “This is going to put a lot of added stress on the roads we have,” he said. “There’s been talk in the past of changing Market and Loudoun Streets to one way. The discussion now is there might be enough traffic on those roads to warrant it.” LaFollette emphasized that any exploration of changing streets to allow for one-way-only traffic would require a traffic study. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

last year before they started? I think I remember you were worried about math last year, as well. 3. Do you remember how you dealt with that worry? What do you think you can do this year so that you will do well? 4. I know it’s scary to face such a big challenge, but I’ve seen you face other challenges. The goal of these steps is to slow the process and don’t jump to reassuring or problem solving. Our goal should be not to reassure our children, but to help them learn to reassure themselves. If we guide them along, they can learn to calm themselves and solve their problems. This is ultimately our goal, isn’t it? Neil McNerney is a licensed professional counselor and author of Homework – A Parent’s Guide To Helping Out Without Freaking Out! and The Don’t Freak Out Guide for Parenting Kids with Asperger’s. He can be reached at neil@neilmcnerney.com

Downtown << FROM 1 years she’s lived in the area. While she admitted that she was not always a fan of change, she encouraged the council to embrace the project for what it could mean for the downtown’s future. “I feel that we’ve put in so much time and effort to push us to get to that place that this would only help us out in the future,” she said. Eric Byrd, a member of the town’s Economic Development Commission and the manager of the Loudoun Small Business Development Center, expressed the EDC’s support for the project. He noted that the project would be located in the town’s HUBZone—an area that gives businesses a leg up on some federal government contracts—and would be an attractive place to land for those who could secure jobs by living and working in such an area,. In the end, the majority of the council agreed that the pros of the project far outweighed the cons. Often mentioned throughout discussion of the project has been its economic impact, with an applicant presentation noting the Church & Market land represents $44 million in taxable property, not including any potential revenue from Business Professional & Occupational License fees or meals taxes. “Passing on this type of opportunity would be foolish for the council,” Councilman Josh Thiel said. Council members Neil Steinberg and Tom Dunn were the dissenting votes on the special exception application. Dunn said he believed that those town residents who did not support the project deserved a voice on the dais, while Steinberg said he was uncomfortable with how the six-story-high building would fit within the Old & Historic District. A Zoning Ordinance change passed by a previous Town

Facebook << FROM 37 a break from Facebook, consider your children. If you have teens in the house, your social media use could be normalizing excessive screen time which is linked to increases in adolescent cyberbullying, anxiety and depression. You may be inadvertently communicating that number of likes, comments and followers are important measures of social worth. Even if your children wouldn’t consider using Facebook per se, there is tremendous peer pressure for children and teens to access other social media networks that use similar metrics. Taking a break lets them know they don’t have to become slaves to these apps.

Authenticity The greatest benefit I’ve experienced since quitting Facebook has been that my friendships have taken on a feeling of greater authenticity. When I call people

Council allows six-story buildings within a small area of the downtown, including the Church & Market site. “This area offers us our last, best chance to have a positive, lasting impact on the downtown. My feeling is it’s just not quite there yet in this application,” Steinberg said. Yet to be determined is how parking on the site will be configured, with two options proposed by the developer. Option A would provide 169 spaces inside the garage and an additional eight as surface parking around the building. Option B would place an automated lift system inside the garage. The garage could then accommodate 202 spaces, with an additional eight spaces provided as surface parking around the building. The inclusion of the automated lift system would, however, result in the reduction of 2,000 square feet of retail development that fronts on the alleyway. A total of 191 parking spaces are required for the development, but the applicant is seeking a shared parking reduction to 177 spaces for Option A, which would require approval from the Planning and Zoning Department. According to a staff report, the provision of the lift system envisioned in Option B is incumbent upon satisfactory agreement with the Town Council to provide an unrestricted public parking component to the plan. Blair White, vice president of Landmark Development, said that parking for the office development portion of the project, where the Times-Mirror building currently stands, would most likely come through paying into the town’s payment in lieu of parking fund. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

on the phone, we really listen to one another’s updates. Information isn’t packaged for mass consumption, it’s shared with personal emphasis and inflection that says more than a text-and-photo update ever could. I am able to present a more nuanced version of myself to the people I care about most and I get a more accurate picture of what is happening in my friends’ lives. I’m not knocking Facebook—I spent more than a decade enjoying the experience of being online. But there are benefits to taking a break that may help reduce stress and pay social dividends far beyond those you might expect. So, go ahead ... give it a try. Log off and smell the roses. Chris Croll is a writer, community activist and member of the Loudoun County School Board (Catoctin District). She lives in Leesburg with her husband and two children.

39 August 15, 2019

Gebert << FROM 3 of Directors. He resigned from the HOA board Monday after a special meeting was scheduled to vote to remove him later in the month. Resident Peter Fedders suggested and organized the purchase of the “Hate Has No Home Here” signs. He said the report on Gebert was met with “complete shock” in the neighborhood. “I think the real shock was that he was like the head of our HOA,” Fedders said. “He was the president until I think July.” He suggested on Facebook that the community band together to buy the signs and began organizing, ordering the first batch of 100 signs at $5 each as people signed up to contribute. So far, 115 people have signed up and another resident has offered to put up the money for a second batch of signs. He plans to distribute the signs on Sunday, and said he expects to see rainbow balloons join the chalk art that he said has already appeared. “It’s just a sign, [but] it’s something, it’s a start,” Fedders said. “Because I don’t think people knew what to do. What do you do when there’s somebody like that that’s in your neighborhood leading your HOA? So I think people just kind of latched onto the sign thing.” After the Southern Poverty Law Center’s report, Gebert was reportedly suspended from his job at the State Department, where he works as a foreign affairs officer assigned to the Bureau of Energy Resources. Gebert’s wife, Anna Vuckovic, was also active in those online communities, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. And from 2015 until June, she served on the Visit Loudoun board of directors. According to Visit Loudoun CEO Beth Erickson, Vuckovic had also worked with other tourism agencies including Visit Phoenix, Choose Chicago, Experience Columbus, and Explore St. Louis. “I can assure you that during Anna’s tenure on Visit Loudoun’s board, any affiliation she or her family member may have had with the organization was not known to us and I did not believe it impacted her work on the board,” Erickson wrote in an email to

the county Board of Supervisors. “She resigned from the volunteer board in June 2019 and therefore has no association with Visit Loudoun at this time.” At the time that Gebert was elected to the Visit Loudoun board, Erickson wrote, she was the Director of National Accounts for Visit Phoenix. “Visit Loudoun is committed to the diverse and culturally rich community we serve and to ensuring that Loudoun County is a welcoming destination,” Erickson wrote. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center’s “Hatewatch” blog, which monitors hate groups and hate speech, Gebert was involved with white nationalist podcasts and online forums using several pseudonyms and hosted white nationalist gatherings at his home. He is also alleged to have attended the white nationalist gathering in Charlottesville on Aug. 12, 2017, which turned deadly for counter-protesters, and helped organize and recruit for a DC-area organization, “D.C. Helicopter Pilots.” The group is a chapter of The Right Stuff, an alt-right network the Southern Poverty Law Center lists as a hate group. “[Whites] need a country of our own with nukes, and we will retake this thing lickety split,” the center reported Gebert said on a podcast called “The Fatherland.” He is quoted as saying a variety of explicitly racist things, such as “I think it reflects the better angels of our white nature that we—despite all of the evidence we have from the criminality to whatnot that we still have a soft spot in our heart for Red Foxx and ‘Sandford and Son.’” Under his own name, Gebert donated to white supremacist and Republican primary candidate Paul Nehlen, who challenged then-Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI-1) in 2016 with endorsements from people like Laura Ingraham and Sarah Palin but was handily defeated. He ran a second time in 2018 but was again defeated, coming third in a field of six candidates. The center also offered evidence Gebert published antisemitic views and dined with a famed Holocaust denier. Gebert has not yet replied to an emailed request for comment. rgreene@loudounnow.com

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A “Hate Has No Home Here” sign on display along King Street in Leesburg. The residents of Greenway Farms, home of alleged white supremacist Matthew Gebert, have ordered 100 such signs and plan to order more.

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