“Farm fresh flowers are more unique, elegant, and have nuances. They don’t look like they’re manufactured like so
The Board of Supervisors last week voted to buy 17 acres along Goose Creek near the Sycolin Road bridge, across from the True North data center complex, at more than twice its appraised value.
FLOWER POWER continues 38
The entrepreneurs leading the growing sector aren’t just blending agriculture and artistry, but also promoting a more sustainable business model in the once import-dominated business.
Hope Flower Farm Celebrates Dahlias
much of what we purchase from other countries. It is very cookie cutter, and so much of the uniqueness of each stem is
on page
But supervisors were divided over the price tag, which is close to double their first offer and comes with five acres less.
Dana Armstrong/Loudoun Now
Hope Flower Farm owner Holly Heider Chapple has taught floral design around the world, and said the best blooms come from her own backyard.
status in the floral industry, she is convinced that the best blooms come from her backyard.
LINEAR PARK continues on page 37
Four Generations Re ect on Loudoun’s Local Flower Renaissance
Work with Loudoun’s Best LOCAL Exteriors Professional. in
Supervisors Buy 17 Acres Along Goose Creek for Linear Park Connection
The county this year assessed the land tract, totaling 22 acres, at a market value of just over $3.5 million, with taxable value of under $750,000. Much of the land is in the river flood plain. According to a county staff report, the county first made an offer based on an appraisal of $4.5 million, then $6.3 million after looking at the property’s development potential under the 2019 comprehensive plan, then $7.25 million, all rejected. The property
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
PRESRTSTD U.S.Postage PAID Permit#1374 MerrieldVA n LOUDOUN Pg. 4 | n LEESBURG Pg. 8 | n EDUCATION Pg. 10 | n OBITUARIES Pg. 23 | n PUBLIC NOTICES Pg. 28 VOL. 7, NO. 43 We’ve got you covered. In the mail weekly. Online always at LoudounNow.com SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 To schedule an appointment call 540.441.7649 or visit our website at hartleyhomeexteriors.com
BY DANA ARMSTRONG darmstrong@getoutloudoun.com
She grew up in Lovettsville with her parents, Albert and Sheila Heider. They maintained Heider Nursery (later sold to Meadows Farms Nursery) with 100 acres of bushes, shrubs, and Christmas trees used for landscaping.
As a kid, Chapple hated her daily chores at Heider Nursery. But once she started cutting and designing her parents’ bushes and shrubs into arrangements, she fell head over heels into floral design.
The land is envisioned as part of the Goose Creek Linear Stream Valley Park Trail, part of the network of linear parks and trails planned across the county, dubbed “Emerald Ribbons” by Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition, which proposed it.
Rural Loudoun County may be known for its vineyards and breweries, but another industry is blossoming in the countryside: flower farms.
Her career began at 22 and has led her to teach floral design workshops in New York, London, China, and Russia. She enjoyed the creativity and flexibility of the job, using it as a means to raise her seven children with her late husband Evan Chapple.Despite Chapple’s world-renowned
Holly Heider Chapple is a wedding and event floral designer with over 25 years of experience.
Round Hill
ROOF LOCAL
Located
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Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Loudoun Free Clinic Executive Director Maribeth Sheehan stands in the clinic’s newly renovated and expanded waiting room.
The Arc of Loudoun on Tuesday host ed an early intervention summit, offering advice on how best to help young children on the autism spectrum, and highlighting its six fully integrated programs including Aurora Behavior Clinic, Aurora School, Open Door Learning Center, Ability Fit ness Center, Project Horse and A Life Like Yours Advocacy Center.
And she said the goal now is to create a roadmap for parents dealing with a new autism diagnosis for their young child, who face a difficult situation, long waits for testing, complicated medical termi nology across a range of disciplines, and often no clear path.
Sheehan and Claude Moore Founda tion Senior Deputy Executive Director Dr. William A. Hazel said the renovation proj ect started with an outdoor lunch meeting in the early days of the COVID-19 pan demic, as Sheehan was just settling into her job. The pandemic prompted Hazel to take a tour of the clinic.
The Loudoun Free Clinic on Mon day unveiled its newly renovated space, which grew its capacity by 500 patients to be able to see up to 1,500 patients.
“Virginia’s unique in having these free clinics. Not every place does,” he said. “And particularly before the Medicaid
“I just can’t thank everybody enough. ‘Thank you is not a strong enough word,” she said. “I’m just so proud of what we’ve accomplished here.”
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Haleema Tayub, the mother of an autistic son, shares her family’s story at a summit on early intervention hosted by The Arc of Loudoun on Tuesday, Sept. 13.
39
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
The $500,000 renovation project was supported by a grant from the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation—money that went much further thanks to ser vices donated by E4H Architecture and WSP systems engineering company. With that money and working within the same footprint at Inova Loudoun’s Cornwall campus, the waiting room was expand ed, more private office spaces and patient care rooms were created, the nurse’s sta tion was renovated for safety and privacy, the utility room was split into separate “clean” and “dirty” rooms, and other work to improve the clinic’s capacity, quality of care, and the safety of its employees.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 3
EARLY continues on page
Loudoun Free Clinic Development Officer Erin Gulick said the renovations, along with renewed outreach work, will allow the clinic to serve more of the es timated 16,000 Loudouners who qualify for the clinic’s services. The clinic offers free healthcare to uninsured, low-income adults making up to 300% of the federal poverty level—in 2022, up to $83,250 a year for a family of four.
“It was really interesting ... how many of us were hearing from other provid ers that we didn’t know about,” Arc of Loudoun CEO Lisa Kimball said. “It’s always fascinating to me that within the same overarching community, whatever that particular issue is, there are so many people doing such great things but we don’t necessarily all know of each other. So this was a really great way for every one to really introduce and collaborate.”
It was also the launch of the Claude Moore Center for Early Intervention, a collaboration among services at the Arc of Loudoun in Leesburg and elsewhere to create a “one stop shop” for kids up to 8 years old, when their developing brains are most flexible for learning the skills and behaviors they will need in life. It is supported both financially and with ex pertise from the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation.Thesummit included presentations from experts both inside and outside the Arc of Loudoun, including Aurora Be havior Clinic Director Janelle McDonald and ALLY Advocacy Center Administra tive Director Eileen Shaffer, and guidance on how to get a formal diagnosis from pediatric psychiatrist Stephanie Mayrant of the Inova Kellar Center. A number of
Learn more about the Loudoun Free Clinic, donate or apply to be a patient at loudounfreeclinic.org. Learn more about the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation at claudemoorefoundation.org. n
expansion, we had so many people that that had no place to go.”
“It’s such a complex and convoluted situation … but by the same token, there should be some way to get it on a piece of paper,” she said. “There should be some way to consolidate this down to, ‘here’s a 10-point checklist, this is going to get you started, and here are the terms and defini tions and acronyms that you’re going to
He thanked the clinic’s board mem bers, “because this is one of the most im portant things that you can do for people.”
And, Executive Director Maribeth
Arc of Loudoun Launches One-Stop Intervention Program
Sheehan said, “certainly our patients are very, very impressed as they come in to see the new clinic.”
Sheehan also thanked Inova Loudoun, which provides the space for the clinic along with things like lights, utilities and housekeeping.
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
parents, experts and representatives from other organizations also attended in per son or on the webcast.
INTERVENTION
Loudoun Free Clinic Unveils $500K Renovation
PAGE 4 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
The issue was raised after a Loudoun County deputy pulled over a Philomont tanker truck. According to an Aug. 24 memo to the Board of Supervisors, the tanker—one of the heaviest types of fire apparatus—was headed south along Snickersville Turnpike toward Hibbs Bridge over Beaverdam Creek on June 24 when a deputy flagged it down and warned the crew about the bridge’s posted
County supervisors have approved separate rezonings to permit 61 townhouses near Dulles Town Center Mall and 41 townhouses near South Riding.
A Loudoun County Fire-Rescue Service heavy rescue vehicle responds to an incident along Lincoln Road in 2019.
Health Commission Seeks Volunteers
weightThatlimit.bridge, a double-arched stone bridge first built in the early 1800s and rehabilitated in 2007, has a posted weight limit of six tons. The tanker truck weighs about 29 tons, according to Loudoun Fire-Rescue.
The Loudoun Health Commission is seeking members to fill the four vacant seats of nine positions.
Parts of Loudoun Cut Off from Fire Service by Bridge Weight Limits
feet south of the existing substation by the intersection of Evergreen Mills Road and Arcola Mills Drive.
ON AGENDA
Firefighting vehicles cannot reach some parts of Loudoun without violating posted weight limits on bridges, and other areas could see firefighters having to take longer alternate routes, the Loudoun County Combined Fire-Rescue Service has warned.
continues on page 5
The company plans to file plans with the State Corporation Commission in the fall after gathering public input, including from county leaders and planning and conservation officials. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy Executive Director Michael Myers at the open house expressed concern about the power lines’ impact on the wildlife and waterfowl in the forested areas and stormwater ponds along the route at the trail system.
At Mountain View Residential, supervisors approved up-zoning 6.33 acres of residential land to permit 41 townhouses on Hopestone Terrace, between Savoy Woods Estates and the Reserve at South Riding. Currently, that site contains a vacant house, garden center, and some forest. The property is surrounded by other residential development. A majority of speakers at public hearings opposed the rezoning, citing density incompatible with the area, increased traffic congestion, pedestrian safety, and impacts to wildlife and Supervisorswater. approved the applications 8-1, Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) opposed to both.
Dominion Holds Open House on Power Line Plan
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Dominion Energy employees take questions on proposed new transmission lines near Birchwood at Brambleton at an open house at John Champe High School Thursday, Sept. 8.
Loudoun
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Supervisors Approve Dulles, South Riding-Area Townhouse Projects
At Colonnade, a project on an undeveloped parcel within Dulles Town Center at the corner of City Center Boulevard and Stefanie Drive, supervisors approved an application to rezone 4.15 acres from commercial zoning to residential use to permit 61 townhouses. The property is surrounded by other residential development, and the mall across the intersection.
Dominion Energy held an open house at John Champe High School on Sept. 8 to share illustrations and take questions on plans for two new substations, connected by a new 500 kilovolt transmission line from near Dulles Airport to Arcola Mills Drive.The route runs along West Perimeter Road on the edge of airport property, crossing Loudoun County Parkway and then over the North Fork Broad Run Stream Valley Park and trail system just south of Birchwood at Brambleton. The transmission lines would connect to a proposed new substation, around 1,000
See the proposed power line route and provide comment at DominionEnergy.com/nova. n
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
Those interested in serving on the commission can go to
“Health Commission members play an important role in advising the Board of Supervisors about public health needs in the county. The commission also provides a forum for health care providers, businesses, government and education leaders to exchange ideas,” said Loudoun County Health Department Director Dr. David Goodfriend. “With the Board’s recent disbanding of the Lyme Disease Commission, the Health Commission will also be taking on the responsibility of increasing awareness about Lyme disease prevention in the county.”
The proposal came after Dominion warned it may not have the transmission capacity to connect new data centers for years.
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
ON THE Agenda
WEIGHT LIMITS continues on page 6
THE
For more information, go to loudoun.gov/hansonparkproject.
The next Loudoun County Household Hazardous Waste collection event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 17 from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the Harmony Park and Ride, 39464 East Colonial Highway in Hamilton. Loudoun residents may bring hazardous waste from their homes to the event free of Typicalcharge.household hazardous waste includes things like fluorescent light bulbs, dry-cell batteries, oil-based paints and stains, paint thinner, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fertilizer, pool chemicals, fire extinguishers and gasoline.
The Loudoun County Office of Emergency Management is encouraging county residents and business owners to provide comments on the proposed Northern Virginia Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Cochran website: TheLeesburgVADentist.com
The multi-jurisdictional plan includes Loudoun and its towns as well as other Northern Virginia jurisdictions including Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William counties. It lays out strategies to reduce or eliminate property damage, injury and loss of life from disasters such as floods, severe storms, tornadoes, wildfires and winter weather, as well as from their long-term effects.Members of the public can submit their comments by email at NOVA2022PublicComment@iem.com until 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8. The draft plan and more information are online at nvers.org/hmp.
ON THE Agenda continued from page 4
Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Offered Sept. 17
The 257-acre park is located off Evergreen Mills Road in Aldie, between Brambleton and Willowsford. It will be one of the largest parks in Loudoun and the region.It includes a cricket pitch, disc golf course, four baseball/softball fields with batting cages, four tennis courts/pickleball courts, an outdoor basketball court, skate plaza, splash pad, ten multi-purpose grass fields, two artificial turf fields with grandstands and press boxes and two playgrounds with rubberized surface. It also includes an amphitheater, concession and restroom buildings and pavilions, fishing piers, five ponds, a lodge/event center, nature center, paved and unpaved trails, picnic pavilions, two off-leash areas for dogs, more than 75 acres of passive parkland and a renovation of the Hanson House.
Some hazardous waste will not be accepted at the event but can be disposed of at the Loudoun County landfill on Evergreen Mills Road, such as motor oil, antifreeze, car batteries, and propane tanks. n
County Seeks Comment on Regional Hazard Plan
Loudoun County will hold a ribbon cutting to celebrate the grand opening of Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park on Friday, Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m.
After Haldore “Hal” Hanson, a writer, U.S. State Department official and nonprofit leader, died in 1992, in keeping with the wishes of the Hanson and his wife, the Hanson Family Partnership agreed to sell the land to Loudoun County only for use as a park. The county bought the property in 2009 through negotiations with the Hanson family, Dominion Power and the National Park Service as a part of a United States Department of Interior program.
Hanson Park Ribbon Cutting Sept. 23
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The limit per household is 15 gallons of liquid waste in containers of up to 5 gallons, and 40 pounds of solid waste also in containers up to 5 gallons.
Weight limits continued from page 4
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80,000 pounds, the maximum permitted weight for vehicles traveling Virginia roads. Although the state has issued no weight limit exemption for emergency vehicles on the Hibbs Bridge, with the bridge along a major route to reach addresses between Philomont and Aldie and the apparent indication from VDOT that the bridge can take that weight, the fire-rescue system has lifted its own prohibition on crossing the bridge.
PAGE 6 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
— Keith Johnson Chief, Loudoun County Fire-Rescue
Transportation exemptions to the bridge weight limits, as well as continuing to gather information to provide to county supervisors and seeking other near-term solutions.Statelaw does permit a weight limit exception for emergency vehicles—but requires an engineering study on the bridge, and an annual permit for each emergency vehicle that may cross the bridge. County fire-rescue vehicles are sometimes called to travel far outside their first-due area to support other stations responding to bigger emergencies, or to fill in if a call comes while the nearest station is already busy responding to another.
“It’s been our highest priority for the last several weeks.”
The memo also notes there is an unknown number of private bridges in Loudoun that could also pose a concern, and which may not have been evaluated by a structural engineer.
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and six addresses on Greengarden Road and Sunken Lane. For another 96 addresses, fire engines can reach but the heavier tankers and ladder trucks cannot. And at many others, while firefighting vehicles can get there, to avoid bridge weight limits they must take longer alternate routes. That work, together with the county Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure, is continuing. They are seeking Virginia Department of
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“It’s been our highest priority for the last several weeks since we became aware of some recent issues,” Johnson told county supervisors at their Sept. 6 meeting. He said the system’s vehicles weigh anywhere from about 8 tons for an ambulance to 36 tons for an aerial ladder.
Loudoun Fire-Rescue vehicles have resumed using the Hibbs Bridge. The Virginia Department of Transportation provided documents indicating the bridge is built to “full load capacity,” which fire-rescue staff interpreted to mean
They found that, while ambulances can reach every part of the county, fire engines, tankers and ladder trucks cannot reach 11 addresses on Dutchmans Creek Road, 11 addresses on Aldie Dam Road
The incident also led system leaders to evaluate the weight restrictions on all the state-owned bridges in Loudoun County, finding 41 bridges in all, and to assess simulated response times with those bridges closed.
The county transportation department is already working to contract engineers to analyze the bridges for possible exemptions, Johnson said. He also said county staff members are meeting with VDOT staff this week. And county fire-rescue and transportation staff are working with the county’s public information office to keep affected residents informed.
While Loudoun’s historic bridges have only gotten older, firefighting vehicles have gotten significantly bigger and heavier over the years due in large part to new safety and equipment requirements. That has also led to debates in some areas about whether fire departments should buy smaller designs. In 2018, the National Association of City Transportation Officials and the U.S. Department of Transportation Volpe Center issued a report on the street safety improvements from using smaller vehicles with similar capabilities, such as are used in Europe and Asia, in urban environments. n
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That led Fire-Rescue System Chief Keith Johnson to issue a directive to responders that they are expected to observe posted bridge limits. According to the memo to supervisors, in follow-up discussions, the Sheriff’s Office indicated it has not issued any directives to “start enforcing” bridge weight limits on Loudoun Fire-Rescue vehicles.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 7 703-956-9470
For more information, go to LeesburgAirshow.com. n
Leesburg
At the core of its annexation petition, the town plans to argue that the Joint Land Management Area that includes Compass Creek was established to accommodate the natural expansion of the town. The draft resolution notes that the property, including the Microsoft land, is served by town water and sewer service and the town claims the data center project could not have developed on schedule without access to town utilities.
To receive real-time text updates about the airshow, text “PLANE” to 888777.
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Scott Francis makes a low pass over the Leesburg Executive Airport runway in his MXS during the 2016 Leesburg Airshow.
ANNEXATION continues on page 9
As the town works through the renewal of Verizon’s cable television franchise agreement, questions were raised about the impacts of the growing popularity of streaming services.Streaming broadcasts through apps like Netflix and Hulu isn't subject to franchise agreements and the town’s chief telecommunication advisor said that’s not likely to change.
Last summer, the Town Council requested a review of any business the town government conducts with China-based firms. On Monday, it got the answer. There’s only one: TikTok.“For Town capital improvement projects, all existing contracts are with companies that are registered with the Virginia State Corporation Commission and are authorized to transact business in Virginia. The Town is not aware of any current
Admission is free; gates open at 11 a.m. Event parking will be at Heritage High School, at 520 Evergreen Mills Road; and Segra Field, at 42095 Loudoun UnitedComplimentaryDrive.
AROUND Town
that flew over the skies of France during WWII. There will also be aviation-related exhibits and educational activities, an inflatable obstacle course and giant slide for the kids, and food and drinks vendors.
AROUND TOWN
Leesburg Airshow Returns Sept. 24
The Leesburg Town Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to initiate an annexation petition to incorporate the entirety of the Compass Creek development, including a Microsoft data center campus. It also is laying the groundwork to allow more data centers in town.
the Town has very little confidence it will ever be completed.”
Matt Ames said many of the rules that govern the ability of localities to regulate—and garner revenue from—cable providers were established in the 1980s. Also, the state government has ruled that the sales and use tax does not apply to streaming services, he said.
Town Reviews Connections to China, Finds Only TikTok
While raising the threat of a rare adverse annexation, the town “remains willing to reach a fair and reasonable revenue sharing agreement with the County re-
The action comes a year after talks with county leaders on a potential deal to share tax revenues from covering the Microsoft data centers broke off.
a central focus of the negotiations. If annexed, the data center campus and other businesses on the property would be subject to both town and county real estate and personal property taxes. While the county would not lose revenue, the property owners would pay more taxes.
PAGE 8 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
According to the resolution, the town plans to apply to the Virginia Commission on Local Government to annex the land through the approval of a special annexation court that would be appointed by the state Supreme Court.
The tax impact of annexation has been
“We’re giving them a free ride. We’re paying for the infrastructure,” he said.
continues on page 9
Council StreamingQuestionsImpacts
The Commemorative Air Force will alsoMeanwhile,return. on the tarmac visitors will get a chance to see a variety of modern and antique aircraft up close, including stepping on board a C-47B Skytrain
Beginning at 1 p.m., aerobatic performers will take to the skies of Leesburg. The event will feature the Flying Circus and aerobatics from David Windmiller, Mark Meredith, RJ Gritter, Jerry Wells, Chef Pitts, Chris Thomas, and Bob Schmidle.
Leesburg Executive Airport is at 1001 Sycolin Road SE, Leesburg.
Councilman Neil Steinberg requested the briefing to understand what happens if traditional cable providers like Comcast and Verizon move to all-streaming services. Ames noted that already Verizon is seeking shorter term cable franchise agreements and out clauses while increasing its investment in wireless services.While it is likely localities will have less control over the providers, Vice Mayor Marty Martinez said governments should be getting more revenue from them, including online retailers like Amazon, because they rely on local connections.
shuttles will run continuously from 10:45 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. A limited number of parking spaces at the airport terminal will be reserved for drivers with. A limited number of spaces will be available at the terminal for drivers DMV-issued permits for accessible parking.
Leesburg Executive Airport will host its popular annual Leesburg Airshow on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Microsoft data center campus in the Compass Creek commercial center is at the heart of the annexation dispute between the Leesburg and Loudoun County governments.
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Town Council Eyes State Petition to Annex Compass Creek, Microsoft Land
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@louuonnow.com
The town and county previously agreed on two cooperative boundary line adjustments covering portions of Compass Creek, although only one has been completed. The second expansion, which would bring land that includes the Super Walmart and the At Home stores into the town limits, was approved in April, but has not moved to the Circuit Court for final approval. According to a statement by the town, the county “has been very slow in working with the Town to complete the second boundary adjustment and
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Pool Day for Dogs at Ida Lee Park
The resolution lays out a series of benefits town leaders say would result from the annexation, including that the town will expand its tax resources, allowing it to provide existing and additional urban services to the town, the annexation area, and the surrounding region; development of the annexation area will create additional employment opportunities; the properties in the annexation area will benefit from a higher level of municipal services provided by the town, as well as lower water and sewer charges; the
After news of the annexation plan circulated last week, the county reached out to renew talks, Town Manager Kaj Dentler said. On Tuesday, the council agreed to assign members on a rotating basis to join Mayor Kelly Burk in meetings with county representatives. Town Attorney Chris Spera told council members that most annexation cases in Virginia are resolved through negotiation and never reach the trial stage.
— Photos by Renss Greene.
AROUND Town
While county government leaders have raised concerns that their operations are too depending on data center revenue, town leaders are looking to that industry to diversify the town’s tax base. n
continued from page 8
Annexation
Also on Tuesday, the council directed the planning staff to begin the review of the town’s zoning districts to determine which are best suited for data center development and to begin a study of design guidelines that would assure the buildings are more attractive than those built in other areas of the county.
continued from page 8 garding the data center parcels and complete the Walmart and At Home boundary line adjustment,” according to the statement.
Council members acknowledged that at least three other properties in town, in addition to the Microsoft campus, are being discussed as possible data center locations—in Oak Lawn, near the Village at Leesburg, and along East Market Street near Battlefield Parkway.
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contractors located in China. Any contract that utilizes federal funding requires the Town to buy American products or products made within the United States due to the Buy America Act/Davis Bacon Act,” according to the staff report.
as the only known link to China. The town’s Public Information Office in June launched an account on the app with the goal of reaching younger residents.Thereview followed the Town Council’s adoption of a resolution condemning the Chinese government’s persecution of the Falun Gong religious group and organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience. n
The staff report identified TikTok
annexation will not have any material adverse effect on the county, as the county will continue to collect taxes from the annexation area, and the property in the annexation area will remain a part of the county; and the commonwealth and the county will benefit because Leesburg will be a more viable and vibrant locality with enhanced resources to provide high quality municipal services to its citizens and the surrounding region.
The dogs got their turn in the pool at the 14th annual Dog Swim at AV Symington Aquatic Center at Ida Lee Park on Saturday, Sept. 10.
In addition to the airline tickets donated by Southwest Airlines, Smith received a gift basket that was filled with travel-themed items, including a neck pillow, portable phone charger, plush airplane toy, passport holder and travel snacks.
Year of the Educator Award Kicks Off with Ashburn Teacher
After a lengthy discussion, committee members voted 3-0 against installing it at thatBrendalocation.Sheridan (Sterling) proposed the staff look into other locations at the school that are 500-1,300 feet from the school and homes after Chairman Jeff
YEAR OF EDUCATOR continues on page 12
“I’m just speechless. I was not
Alliance of Families Holds First Meeting of the School Year
wedding in Mexico.
Education
“We are delighted to come here today to present this very special prize to one of our excellent educators,” Ziegler stated. He pointed out she was selected out of 11,000 staff members and said, “You might want to go and buy a lottery ticket, because that makes you very lucky.”
Loudoun County Public Schools
The proposed location, just outside of the football stadium and next to the opposing team bleachers was discussed during the School Board’s Finance and Operations Committee meeting on Sept. 6.
Pictured left to right Ashburn Elementary Principal Michelle Walthour, Superintendent Scott Ziegler, Meghan Smith, Danielle Nadler and Letty Kayser of the Loudoun Education Foundation.
The Year of the Educator initiative was created by the school division administrators in coordination with the Loudoun Education Foundation. The goal is to surprise a randomly selected teacher and support staff every month during the 2022-23 school year. Each winner will get a visit from the superintendent who will present them with a prize valued at $500 or more.
Memberspolicy.”serve a one-year term which starts July 1 and runs through June 30 of the following year. Members are nominated by their PTA, PTO, PTSO or other parent organization and can be reappointed. n
Morse said he read a lot of research that was “predisposed determination,” which he described as being very biased. He gave the example of a person hating school and going to a website called “I hate schools” and reading about everything they hated about school. He also said he looked at sites that said everything was safe about cell towers.
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com
Meghan Alice Smith, an early childhood special education teacher at Ashburn Elementary, received the visit and gift basket that included two airline tickets just after lunch Sept. 8.
Like LEAP, LEAF is comprised of delegates from schools across the division to advise the School Board. It is made up of one parent representative from each school and one parent who serves as an alternate, including the Academies, William O. Robey High School and The North StarHeatherSchool. Ward, an attorney and mom of two who moved to Ashburn from Birmingham, AL in 2020, was elected chair of the committee. She said she specifically picked Loudoun because of the reputation of its school system, and believes the school system has a lot to offer. She said as the parents continue to have a voice and work together with the School Board “together we can create a good future for our kids.”
Freedom High School Cell Tower a No Go For Now
Superintendentsaid. Scott Ziegler said the committee is a way to increase trust and open dialogue with the community and pointed out that Loudoun County Public Schools is “one of the only school divisions that I know of in the country that encourages public input on every [school board]
The Loudoun Education Alliance of Families elected its new leadership for the 2022-2023 school year during its first organizational meeting on Sept. 6.
concerns in the United States. He said, according to ARPANSA, it saw no issues with the levels of radiation from a cell tower. He said he also reached out to U.S. agencies, but none responded.
She is joined by Vice Chair of Planning Kristina Patrick, Vice Chair of Membership Mital Gandhi, and Vice Chair of Communications Karen Miller.“Thisis the missing link in our communication system. It’s important to establish a connection with parents,” Morse
School Board Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles) suggested starting LEAF earlier this year, which replaces the now-defunct Loudoun Education Association of Parents, or LEAP.
expecting this at all. This is just wonderful and exciting for my students too,” Smith said, according to the school division. She said when she learned the principal of her school, Michelle Walthour, was coming by her classroom that afternoon she was curious and asked herself why.
When asked if she had any immediate thoughts about how she will use the airline tickets, Smith said that she might use the tickets to attend a family
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com
An Ashburn Elementary School teacher was paid a surprise visit Thursday by Loudoun County Public Schools Superintendent Scott Ziegler and members of the Loudoun Education Foundation to award her with the first Year of the Educator prize basket.
Plans to build a 150-foot cell tower at Freedom High School have been stopped for Thenow.proposal has been a concern for some parents and neighbors worried about health and safety as well as a drop in property values.
CELL TOWER continues on page 12
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com
Morse (Dulles), who represents the area, cited that as his preferred minimum standards.Morse opened the discussion by acknowledging that he and other board members had received numerous emails on the matter since the discussion was first brought up several months ago. He said most of the information received from the public dealt with worries over cell“Thephones.research should be about cell towers, not cell phones. If you believe a tower is a threat and your phone isn’t you need to re-examine your process,” Morse said.Morse said he looked at peer reviewed research about cell towers. He said he reached out to the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency that he said was the equivalent of safety agencies tasked with health and safety
“Somewhere in the middle is the truth and the problem I keep running into is no one knows what that is. All the research is either contradictory or inconclusive and we just don’t know,” Morse said.
PAGE 10 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
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Cell tower
THE
precise. They are not confident in their findings.”
PRESENTS
erty value aren’t feasible since the tower would be built near a high school football stadium with lights and loudspeakers.
He pointed out that through his research that for the most part recommendations for safe distances from towers range from 500 to 1,300 feet.
He acknowledged the benefit of having FirstNet emergency communications on the tower and said, “I do think that is significant and the coverage helps with weakerMorsesignals.”addressed the worries residents had over decreased home values and said the estimate given him by people who oppose the tower of a 20% drop in prop-
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Morse said other towers build on school properties are a greater distance from homes and the school than is proposed at Freedom. The distance to the nearest home at the Freedom site is 450 feet and 350 feet from the school.
He suggested the tower contractor, Milestone, look at other properties in the South Riding area.
“Our team was really excited about being part of this,” Loudoun Education Foundation Executive Director Danielle Nadler said. “When we learned the name of the randomly selected staff member, there was a feeling of palpable excitement because we just knew we were going to make someone’s day. And it aligns so perfectly with LEF’s mission of supporting the well-being of LCPS’ teachers and staff.”LEF is securing the Year of the Educator prizes as in-kind donations or cash donations, which will be used to purchase the prizes, and joining the superintendent in presenting the prizes.
PAGE 12 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
The staff has been tasked with looking for alternative locations at Freedom High School that keep the tower between 500 and 1,300 feet from the school and homes. A report will be brought back to the committee at a later date. n
“Thesereview.standards are not accurate today because the FCC regulations have not kept up with the technology,” Morse said. “So, the real question becomes are the FCC standards acceptable? And I don’t think so and I don’t think that we know. So at this point I would have to say I don’t think they are.”
Event information
Year of Educator
“After looking at everything I’ve looked at even though we don’t have any firm data, we know that EMF is a hazard, we just don’t know what distance or what value. We know that the values are low, but the standards are insufficient.”
He pointed out that cell tower usage and frequencies have changed over the past 25 years and if you go to the Federal Communications Commission website you will see that all of their regulations are under
“The FCC calls evidence at lower levels of exposure for production of harmful biological effects ambiguous and unproved. ‘And since much research is not done on whole bodies there has been no determination that such affects constitute a human health hazard.’ That is not a ringing endorsement. We haven’t proven anything,” Morse said. “When you read something like that and you run into red flags in one sentence the words ‘routinely’, ‘typically’ and ‘significantly.’ Thy don’t use measurements, they use flowery language that is not accurate and it’s not
continued from page 10
Nadler said the foundation would love to get the support of local businesses to help celebrate and pamper the teachers and staff. To donate, contact Danielle Nadler at loudouneducationfoundation.org.danielle@ n
continued from page 10
“I believe the plan is just a little too aggressive. I think we’re trying to plop a cell tower in the middle of an established community and make it fit instead of building them prior to,” he said.
Morse said he looked at the arguments brought up in favor of building the tower—better coverage, money for the school system and better emergency communications. He said he drove around with his AT&T phone and didn’t notice a significant drop in service in the area. He observed it seemed to be a stronger signal, but it wasn’t “solving a big problem.” In regard to the benefit of the tower providing money for the school he shot it down saying they weren’t doing it for the money. The school division would get a one-time payment of $40,000 once construction on the tower begins and 40% of any revenue generated from the services providers on the tower.
He said he couldn’t support the current location of the proposed tower.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 13
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
General Assembly Elects 2 Judges
It is the second time Plowman has removed Biberaj from a case. In June, he disqualified the Loudoun County Commonwealth’s attorney’s office from prosecuting charges against a burglary suspect
More fire prevention and safety information is available online at loudoun.gov/fireprevention or by calling Public Education Manager Lisa Braun at 571-258-3222. n
At 12:16 p.m. crews were dispatched to a three-story apartment building on Huntmaster Terrace, finding fire showing from a third-floor window on the rear. Firefighters entered the building and extinguished the fire, finding nobody had been home in the apartment where the fire started.
A Circuit Court judge has granted a motion on behalf of Scott Smith to remove Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj from prosecuting him on the charge of disorderly conduct at a 2021 School Board meeting.Judge James E. Plowman issued the order on Sept. 2, months after Biberaj and the Smiths’ attorney argued the recusal on May 2 and almost a year after the motion was first filed Oct. 22, 2021.
Plowman
Public Safety
Loudoun’s courthouse is set for a shuffle in December following General Assembly action during last week’s special session.
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
after ruling that misrepresentations in a plea agreement that had been made in the case. Biberaj criticized that action as judicial overreach and appealed it to the state SupremeKendraCourt.Glover, communications and technical support specialist with Biberaj’s office, did not return a request for comment.Incourt in May, Biberaj had argued disqualifying her office from the case could set a precedent that any defendant could seek to have their local prosecutors disqualified.
Johnson and the fire-rescue system urged people to take safety precautions around those batteries. Those include making sure cords are not damaged, only using the manufacturer-approved charger and cable, monitoring batteries while they charge, and never charging a device or battery under a pillow, on a bed or couch or near flammable materials. People are advised to stop using or charging a battery immediately if they notice an odor or noise coming from the battery, too much heat or a change in color in the battery or charging system, or if the battery leaks or changes shape.
“Everyone could come in and say, ‘they have animus toward us or a bias toward us because they’re prosecuting,’” Biberaj said.
Plowman Again Removes Commonwealth’s Attorney from Local Case
Leesburg Apartment Fire Highlights Battery Danger
The legislature cemented its decision to not re-elect Circuit Court Judge Jeanette A. Irby to a second eight-year term by appointing District Court Judge Matthew Parke Snow to her bench seat starting Dec. 1.
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com
The Fire Marshal’s Office determined the accidental fire was caused by an electrical malfunction, from a cell phone being charged from an incompatible charger and cord. Damages are estimated at $250,000 in that apartment alone and $625,000 in total.The cell phone battery highlighted concerns Fire-Rescue System Chief Keith
“All that Scott Smith and his family have ever asked for is that the Loudoun County school system protect their daughter and treat them fairly; it has not. All that Scott Smith ever wanted to do at the school board meeting that night was to have its members be honest about what had happened to his daughter, and to have them protect all of their students from misguided policies that unfairly put his daughter in danger; they did not.
Smith is the father of a student who was sexually assaulted at her high school. He was subsequently arrested at a Loudoun County School Board meeting and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest without force after tussling with deputies. He was there to speak out against the School Board for what he believed was a failure to protect his daughter and engaging in a cover-up of the incident.
However, he wrote, “the position as articulated by counsel for the Defendant during oral argument is persuasive. The concerns about the public confidence in the integrity of the prosecution as well as the Defendant’s concerns regarding the impartiality of the Commonwealth’s Attorney are sufficiently grounded. As a result, the integrity of the Defendant’s due process rights is in jeopardy and must be protected.”Plowman appointed Stafford County Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric Olsen to replace Biberaj.
PAGE 14 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Bill Stanley, attorney for the Smith family, argued during the May hearing that chief Loudoun prosecutor Biberaj was inherently biased against Smith, which interfered with Smith’s right to a fairIntrial.his order, Plowman wrote that there was insufficient information “to determine whether or not a direct conflict exists that would mandate removal.”
SnowEvaluations.waselected to the District Court judgeship in 2020. He is the former law partner of now Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj and District Court Judge Lorrie Sinclair Taylor. His past affiliation with Biberaj, who has drawn criticism for her progressive criminal justice policies, prompted Senate Republicans to abstain from voting on his Fitzpatrickelection.isa principal with Sevila, Saunders, Huddleston & White. Prior to joining the firm in 2000, he served as an assistant commonwealth’s attorney in Loudoun County and an assistant public defender in Fairfax County andSnowRoanoke.andFitzpatrick were recommended for the positions by the Loudoun County Bar Association, which vetted applicants for the seats. n
“Often people will plug their e-bike, their e-scooter, their hoverboard, whatever device they are using … into the charging system of their home. They plug it in and forget about it,” Johnson said. “They leave it on the workbench, they leave it in the garage, they charge it in the bedroom of
Smith was found guilty in District Court and is appealing the conviction.
Johnson expressed the night before during a county Board of Supervisors meeting.
continues on page 15
Johnson told supervisors that lithium battery fires are on the rise both in Loudoun and nationwide, and that they have become a cause for alarm in the fire service. They are commonly used in consumer electronics ranging from cell phones and laptops to electric scooters and e-cigarettes. Loudoun Fire-Rescue estimated that as of that night, Loudoun had seen $11.8 million in damage caused by lithium battery fires since May 2021— which was added to by last week’s apartment building fire.
the home. You absolutely can’t do that; you have to monitor the battery.”
Irby was elected to the bench in 2014 to fill the seat of retired Judge Thomas D. Horne. Her term expires Dec. 1. In January, she was endorsed for reelection in the state Senate, but her name was pulled from the nomination list by the House of Delegates. That action followed a December 2021 joint meeting of the House Courts of Justice Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee during which she was questioned about low scores in the Judicial Performance
BIBERAJ
A Sept. 7 fire at a Leesburg apartment building was the latest caused by lithium batteries, a growing trend that worries Loudoun fire-rescue officials.
The assembly then elected Leesburg attorney William R. Fitzpatrick to fill Snow’s District Court seat for a six-year term, also starting Dec. 1.
Biberaj
In announcing the arrest, the agency stated that all Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System members, including Purcellville Volunteer Fire Company members, undergo a comprehensive background check including fingerprinting, and a criminal and traffic check of their adult and juvenile records. The county code also includes regulations for conduct and discipline in the fire-rescue service.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 15
Purcellville Firefighter Charged in Car Burning
According to the agency, on Aug. 12 members of the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System responded for an auto fire located off Samuels Mill Court east of Leesburg. Investigators determined the fire was incendiary in nature and on Sept. 8 charged Matthew Christopher Bush with the felony crime of burning or destroying personal property valued over $1,000.
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A Leesburg-area woman has been charged with second-degree murder following a domestic-related homicide that occurred last week at a home north of Leesburg.
The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office last week charged a volunteer firefighter for allegedly burning
Bush was a volunteer member with
Motorcyclist Dies in Dump Truck Crash
And, all that Scott Smith has ever wanted was to be treated fairly under the law by Loudoun’s Commonwealth’s Attorney in dealing with the unjust charges placed against him; and she has not,” Stanley wrote in a press release. He accused Biberaj of choosing “politics over truth, impartiality, and justice.”
According to the report, at 7 a.m. Sept. 9, a motorcycle rider was traveling on Gum Spring Road toward Rt. 50 near the Prince William County line when he struck a dump truck. The rider, Jonathan W. Bundren, 25, of Manassas, died at the scene.
The suspect, his daughter Alicia R. Carroll, 28, was located near the home and taken into custody. She lived at the home with her mother and father, the agency said.
During the May 2 hearing, the Circuit Court dismissed the obstruction of justice charge, one of the two charges that were pending against Smith. The remaining charge of disorderly conduct has not yet been set for trial. n
She is charged with second-degree murder, use of a firearm during the commission of a felony and shooting in the commission of a felony. She is being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a Fording Branch Court home shortly after 10 p.m. Sept. 7 for a reported shooting.
The cause of the crash is under investigation. Witnesses to the crash are asked to contact Investigator M. Lotz at 703-777-1021 n
Woman Charged in Fatal Shooting of Father
Jeffrey A. Carroll, 56, was found dead inside the house.
SAFETY Briefs
The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal crash that occurred Friday morning on Gum Spring Road.
Bush was arrested in Jefferson County and was held without bond in the West Virginia Eastern Regional Jail pending extradition to Loudoun County.
his 2021 Honda Civic.
the Purcellville Volunteer Fire Company, which he joined in June 2022. He has been suspended from that company and the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System.
continued from page 14
“A fair system of criminal justice that is void of both bias and political agendas is the cornerstone of a free society. From the beginning, Ms. Biberaj has sought to make an example of me for simply standing up to defend my daughter at the now infamous Loudoun County School Board meeting,” Smith said in the press release. He said Biberaj “has continued to fan the flames of those who would label parents like me who stand in protection of their kids against dangerous school policies as being ‘domestic terrorists.’”
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
For the third year, a group of leading women will take to the catwalk at a fashion show for a cause, raising funds an awareness for domestic violence survivors.
Trungo’s owners Mike Koch and Shaoshi Geller invited Loudoun Literacy to bring Buzzed at the Bee back to their restaurant after a two-year COVID-19 hiatus. It was the second Buzzed at the Bee at Trungo’s this year.
McQuillan
Buzzed at the Bee is hosted by Loudoun Now Deputy Editor Renss Greene. More information about Loudoun Literacy Council is at loudounliteracy.org.
Fashion Show Fundraiser Celebrates Triumphs Over Domestic Violence
Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now Models at this weekend’s P7 Fashion Show rehearse out of costume to get ready.
P7 DIVAS continues on page 17
Contestants tried their hand in spelling, trivia questions about Loudoun and the English language, and categories like “Renaissance Artist or Coffee” or “Spell it Out or Act it Out,” in which if they can’t spell a word—for example, macaque— they can act it out instead. They were competing for prizes donated by Trungo’s, including a grand prize $50 gift certificate and Loudoun Literacy swag.
Thursday night’s big winner was Maddy Goggin, after stumbling on the word “zoopraxiscope,” an early form of motion projector, but correctly answering every other spelling question—as well as successfully answering questions like which is the first alphabetically of all numbers (eight), naming all five states that border Virginia, correctly guessing that “Masaccio” is an artist rather than a coffee drink, and satisfactorily acting out the word “parkour” without causing damage to theTherestaurant.gamesraise money for Loudoun’s largest literacy nonprofit, which offers programs such as adult and youth English classes, GED preparation, individualized tutoring, baby book bundles, financial literacy, health literacy, and job site liter-
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Buzzed at the Bee champion Maddy Goggin, Loudoun Literacy Council Interim Executive Director Tanya Bosse and Trungo’s co-owner Shaoshi Geller celebrate Goggin’s victory Thursday, Sept. 8.
Trungo’s restaurant in Leesburg on Thursday night once again hosted Buzzed at the Bee, the spelling bee and trivia night fundraiser for the Loudoun Literacy Council.
Nonpro t
PAGE 16 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Charlie McQuillan has been elected the new chair of the Loudoun Hunger Relief Board of on2014,thehasDirectors.McQuillanservedonboardsinceincludingtheExecutiveCommittee as Secretary, during a time of unprecedented growth. He is General Manager, Federal Health Markets, for Octo Consulting, and lives in Ashburn. He is joined on the leadership team by Vice Chair David McOmber, Secretary Lorna Campbell Clarke, and Treasurer Roman Blazauskas.
P7 Walk With Purpose on Sept. 17 features the P7 Divas, or Powerful 7, women leaders in their communities and professions, and many of whom are themselves domestic violence survivors. The fashion show is the centerpiece of a party that begins with casino games, then includes a performance by R&B singer, songwriter and harpist Tulani, the headline fashion show, and then a live DJ and dance party that last until midnight.
Jones is the founder of Silence No More, a platform for collaboration among organizations, agencies, community members, elected officials, and real time victims and survivors, with a goal to build a system to sustain survivors for two full years after they leave their abusive partner.
GIVING back
Longtime board Chair Carol Barbe will continue her board service as Immediate Past Chair. Barbe, the president of Backflow Technology, served an unprecedented eight years as chair, and oversaw a shift toward healthy and whole food choices, significant organizational growth, and unprecedented demand for Loudoun Hunger’s services particularly during the height of the pandemic.
Trungo’s Hosts Buzzed at the Bee
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
Organizer Lisa Jones, the founder of Silence No More, said for her, the P stands for powerful—not just in status, but in giving, togetherness and harmony among the models.“They have become a sisterhood,” she said. “When they need each other, they’re on group chats. It’s a diverse group of age, nationality, and they have a bond. …. It is just an amazing, amazing energy.”
McQuillan Named Loudoun Hunger Relief Chair
acy. The nonprofit also works in the schools, providing the federally-mandated but unfunded Head Start program, and the Starting Towards Excellence in Preschool or STEP program.
Loudoun Literacy Council is also preparing for its annual “NOT Your Kid’s Spelling Bee” on Friday, Oct. 14, this year emceed by former Claude Moore Charitable Foundation deputy executive director and Lynn Tadlock & Associates CEO and Founder Lynn Tadlock, at The National Conference Center. Quizmasters this year include Loudoun Chamber President and CEO Tony Howard, Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson, and name-that-tune musical guests Lenny Burridge with Shye Gilad and Tim Rumfelt.
Tickets, sponsorship packages, silent auction donations and more information are online at loudounliteracy.org/event/not-your-kids-spelling-bee. n
“I want to personally thank each member of Loudoun Hunger Relief’s Board of Directors. Every person makes a unique and valuable contribution to the organization’s direction and governance through their volunteer service,” McQuillan said. “Thanks go to the directors who have completed their terms and are now LHR board alumni. I am grateful that Carol Barbe is remaining to lend her guidance as Immediate Past Chair. LHR will continue our work to provide high quality food assistance, and to be crisis responders with regard to hunger and foodLoudounsecurity.”Hunger Relief has been serving the community since 1991. Last year, the nonprofit served 14,000 Loudoun residents with about 2.3 million meals, and distributed 2.8 million pounds of food. For more information visit loudounhunger.org or call 703-777-5911. n
“I truly believe that education is the an swer to a lot of the situations that we’re facing in society, whether it’s homeless ness, whether it’s domestic violence, whether it’s inequality, whether it’s economic inequalities,” she said.
But the P7 Divas are there for the mis sion, as is the designer of their outfits, New York City-based Afua Sam.
The P7 Fashion Show Fundraiser be gins at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at 21586 Atlantic Boulevard, Sterling. Tickets are available at p7phasethree.com. n
“I have been a victim myself, years back, and I realized that immediately once I got the courage to move away, even though it took me a long time, everything started shining bright,” she said. “My creativity came out even more, because I’m free.”
The P7 Divas vote on a nonprofit to support each year. The event will this year benefit Women Giving Back, the Sterling-based organization that provides clothing for women and children escaping domestic violence. Both organizations can help prevent survivors from returning to their abusers—often, among the controls that abusers seek over their victims is con trol of their money and other resources, which can make it difficult to leave.
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“I knew that the focus would be more if we kind of narrowed these things down,” Sam said.
“The love behind what you’re doing gives you more joy when you’re creating pieces like that. And for a cause like this, it’s something dear to my heart,” she said. “And I’ve always—since I started design ing, and because it’s a gift—I always know that when you have a gift, it’s not only for you. It’s for the people, to create happi ness, to make other people smile.”
the resources—a lot of times, they need re-education. They need help getting a new job. They need help, their kids need help getting back on their feet.”
students on gardening and farming, pop-up health clinics and health education, as well as a college prep program in the U.S. for first-generation immigrant families, and which was last year’s fashion show benefi ciary. She also helps with Silence No More, and said the mission fits well with her non profit’s work to lift people out of poverty.
She said learning more about domestic violence—both the resources for victims, and how to recognize and be sensitive to domestic violence and dispel preconcep tions about it—is also important.
Reporter Alexis Gustin conducted interviews for this story.
P7 Divas
And she said the work becomes “effort less” when you love what you do.
Many of the models have been taking part since the first year, said Solitaire Car roll. She is the founder of One Sparrow, a nonprofit dedicated to serving communi ties in Haiti with hands-on instructions for
Jones said the fashion show isn’t just about the glamor—it’s all about the mission.“Itwas important to me that they weren’t volunteering just to be seen—I wanted them for the mission. For the first year, no one could know they were in a fashion show. Nobody knew it until they were actually on a stage,” she said.
Sam recalled meeting Jones years ago at an event for serving autistic children through fashion and art. For Sam, who has been designing since she was young and taught herself to sew so she could create what was in her head, her talent and art have always been tools to serve, and for her own liberation.
continued from page 16
Jones said the P7 Divas have had an im pact they may not even suspect.
“A lot of the root cause of homeless ness and economic disparity, especially for women, is domestic violence,” Carroll said. “Whether it’s why they don’t leave, whether it’s why they’re staying, whether it’s why they’re now impoverished, be cause they did leave but they didn’t have
“Our hope is that other women will speak up, and they have,” Jones said. “I don’t even think they know the good they’re doing—they really don’t. I get a lot of women who pull me aside separately because of them.”
The first year, she collaborated with other designers on the show. But she lat er decided to take on the whole show her self—despite the workload of designing multiple outfits for multiple models. It al lows her to put her artistic vision for the show, with Jones, on stage.
In Leesburg on Sunday afternoon, town leaders, first responders and members of the community gathered at Freedom Park for a brief ceremony and wreath laying.Mayor Kelly Burk called the attacks something truly unimaginable at that time.
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now Rick Etter rings the fire bell during Leesburg’s Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony at Freedom Park.
During the ceremony at Purcellville’s First Responders Monument, which includes a piece of steel beam from Tower 2 of the World Trade Center and stone from a barn near Shanksville, PA, participants heard a first-hand account of the rescue efforts at the Pentagon.
Loudoun Remembers 9/11 Attacks
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now Scouts from the All Dulles Area Muslim Society read prayers for peace from many different religions during Purcellville’s 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now
peopleday.usthenmoniestypesforget.agoised“Weimportant.prom-21yearsnevertoIftheseofcere-cease,atleastletremembertheLetus,thehere,paytributetotheindividualsandpeoplewhosac-
PAGE 18 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Although Leesburg’s ceremony was short, completed in less than 10 minutes, Burk said the annual gatherings
After emerging from the heavy smoke and jet fuel fires, he collapsed outside. Following triage in a nearby parking lot, he was taken to the hospital. He awoke four days later, undergoing treatment for pneumonia, collapsed lungs, burns in his throat and then dangerous acute respiratory distress Middletonsyndrome.saidhe didn’t feel like a hero, but instead gave that credit to his wife, Karen, who made the daily 90mile roundtrips to the hospital during his recovery while caring for their two young sons and working at her own job. “The worst part was what she had to go through,” he said.
Mayor Kwasi Fraser highlighted the unity that followed that tragic day.
Purcellville’s ceremony concluded with members of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society Scout Troop reading prayers for peace from different religious traditions, highlighting that universal sentiment. n
Warner Workman brought out a replica Liberty Bell to Lovettville’s Town Square and rang it marking the moment each World Trade Center tower was hit as well as the Pentagon and Flight 93 going down in Shanksville, PA.
At programs sponsored by the towns of Leesburg, Purcellville and Lovettsville crowds were relatively small but the participants stressed the importance of remembering the 2,977 lives lost that day, those who risked their lives in rescue efforts, and their families.
The 2,977 American flags placed at the Lovettsville Town Square to remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001.
Around Loudoun on Sunday ceremonies were held to reflect on the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the heroism shown on that day and the lasting impacts.
For Senior Trooper Sgt. Michael Middleton, of Ashburn, Sept. 11 started as a routine day. He had just cleared a car crash when he first got word that an airplane had struck the World Trade Center. Next, he received the call about the crash at the Pentagon. Minutes later he was running into the still-burning building to help rescue survivors. He crawled through pitch-black hallways going room to room and ran up a fiery staircase in search of those who were trapped.
rificed—the first responders, all the people in the towers, all the people at the Pentagon, all the people who flew on the planes. Let us remember them in our hearts and in our minds as long as we may live,” Burk said.
“Recalling this day 21 years ago, many of us can remember feeling shocked, anger, fear, anxiety, and sadness,” he said. “Yet there also emerged a strong sense of unity and solidarity as citizens of these great United States. Through this tragedy we found a connection to each other as, not nationwide, but a global community of citizens, as neighbors, as friends, as family, as fellow human beings.”
“To describe it, it was very hellish. If you even had a charcoal and you look at the ends of the charcoal you see the ambers glowing red, this what is looked like inside. There were chunks of the plane and the building,” he said.
Remembering 9/11
“They were the men and the women running into the buildings to get people down to safety. Many of them never knew that safety themselves. Since then, their children have grown up, their parents have passed on, their spouses live without their best friends, but life continues,” she said.
are
“It’s different for the people who were there,” he said.
Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now
Lovettsville continued its tradition of a morning program that marks with a blast from a firetruck horn the times that the airplanes hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and the crash of Flight 93 in a field in Shanksville, PA. Because of rain, this year’s program was held indoors at the Town Office instead of the Town Square where 2,977 American flags were displayed.During the course of the 90-minute program, those in attendance were asked to share their recollections of that day. Michael Baker of the Lovettsville Volunteer Fire Department spoke of his memories from 21 years ago when he was sent to help at the Pentagon after it was struck by Flight Warner77.Workman brought a replica Liberty Bell to Town Square and rang it marking the moment each tower was hit as well as the Pentagon and Flight 93 going down in Shanksville, PA. He spent 23 days in New York City as a first responder following the attack. He got emotional explaining the reason behind why he brought the bell out and rang it.
“The enduring power of the Sept. 11 attacks is clear. The overwhelming share of Americans who are old enough to recall the day will remember exactly where they were and what they were doing when they heard the news,” Burk said. “Yet an ever-growing number of Americans have no personal memory of that day, either because they were too young or they weren’t bornSheyet.”noted that many of the people killed in New York were first responders.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 19 FURNACE MOUNTAIN TRIO THE FRET CARROLLFLATTERSCOUNTY RAMBLERS FORD’S FISH SHACK UNCLE FRED’S BBQ OLD 690 BREWERY TWO TWISTED POSTS DOUK É NIE WALSH FABBIOLI PRESENTED BY SATURDAY OCTOBER 1 CIRCA3-10p.m.BLUE SCAN FOR INFO & TO PICNICORVERANDAHRESERVELAWNTABLESFREEADMISSION LAWN, BAR & FESTIVAL MARKET OPEN AT 2 p.m. LoudounNow
The SAR chapter is open to those with a Revolutionary Patriot in their family tree. For information, email the secretary secretary-vassar@virginia-sar.org.at
Those delays could threaten the two Rt. 7 interchanges and the park and ride, which are partially funded with state money.
The commission is working to establish authority to permit residents to keep livestock or fowl in town while also setting standards designed to limit the impact on neighbors. While the draft rules cover everything from buffalo to swine, the focus has been on chickens, an increasingly popular brand of suburban husbandry.
Speakers at the hearing said the requirements would unfairly exclude smaller properties from having chickens and urged town leaders to consider the benefits of the birds—from their taste for eating invasive bugs to the health benefits of home-grown Commissionersfood. asked Town Planner John Merrithew to come back with ideas to tweak the regulations at a future meeting.
Board of Supervisors’ finance committee, County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said it is now “probably more than a year” since the county’s administrative applications should have been processed.
STAFFING CRUNCH continues on
The county has six ongoing capital projects in and around town, including the Fields Farm Park sports complex, the Franklin Park to Purcellville trail, interchanges on Rt. 7 at Rt. 287 and Rt. 690, the Western Loudoun Park and Ride Lot, and Fields Farm Park Road. With the Rt. 690 interchange and Fields Farm Park Road, county staff members said they have had faced delays in getting design plans and plats through the town’s administrativeDuringreview.Tuesday’s meeting of the
Purcellville Staffing Crunch Cited as Threat to State Funding
Following an appeal by all six homeowners living on the street, a divided Round Hill Town Council last week voted not to seek a name change for Mosby Court.The cul-de-sac had been slated to be renamed as part of the Board of Supervisors’ push to remove names associated with the Confederacy and slavery from publicMosbyspaces.Court, named for the Confederate cavalry colonel, was one of several Round Hill-area streets on the county’s list, but the only one that is completely inside the town limits, leaving the naming decision entirely up to the Town Council.
“From the staff perspective, we’re not going to put a funding source as risk such as SMART SCALE because we can’t get through the regulatory process with them,” Hemstreet said.
Following an hour-long public hearing Sept. 7, the Lovettsville Planning Commission is looking for more options on regulations that would govern backyard chickens.
Longstreet streets cross the town/county boundaries. Lee, Jackson, and Pickett streets are entirely in the county.
Mosby Court residents, several of whom have lived on the road for decades,
MOSBY COURT continues on page 23
PAGE 20 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Round Hill Residents Win Petition to Keep Mosby Court Name
Towns
competes with other localities for that funding, and falling behind the state’s requested schedule for those projects could mean losing it.
And with the sports complex and the park and ride, the county filed legislative applications more than two years ago, with no action yet by the town Planning Commission or Town Council.
To earn the commendation, a business or homeowner must light the flag at night and replace it when it is worn, tattered, or soiled.
Lowry’s Awarded for Patriotism
After the COVID-19 pandemic began, reported county Design Program Manager Mark Hoffman, there was a “noticeable change” in the town’s responsiveness to the county’s filings. Hemstreet said the delays not only grow costs because of cost escalation and inflation, but could even threaten an important source of state funding, SMART SCALE, for capital projects across the county. Loudoun
Other nearby streets in the Hillwood Estates subdivision are named after Confederate generals: Lee, Jackson, Longstreet, Pickett, Hampton, and Hill. The county, in cooperation with the town, is in the process of asking residents on those streets to help pick new names. The generic-sounding Hill Circle has been exempted from the exercise. Hampton and
page 23
Loudoun County government staff members have warned that slow responses from the Town of Purcellville could threaten an important source of transportation funding countywide, as the town government grapples with short staffing and lingering delays from adjusting to COVID-era remote work.
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Chickens ChampionsFindat Hearing
AROUND towns AROUND TOWNS continues on page 22
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
“We are in a situation where delays on, particularly, SMART SCALE projects could affect our SMART SCALE applications across our entire CIP,” he said. And he said county staff members would sooner recommend pulling funding for county projects in Purcellville and returning it to the state rather than endangering that state funding countywide by winning it but not using it in a timely manner.
The award was presented in front of their restaurant by Compatriots Rhett Wade and Barry Schwoerer.
“We’re not coming after your chickens,” Merrithew assured the
LOVETTSVILLE
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
HAMILTON
Purcellville Capital Projects and Engineering Manager Dale Lehnig told the
first reached out to the town in July after learning about the plan to rename their street.
The street signs for Longstreet Avenue and Mosby Court in Round Hill.
The John Champe Chapter of the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution presented the owners of Lowry’s Crab Shack a certificate of commendation for exemplary patriotism in their display of the American flag.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE
During a two-hour community briefing with a delegation of the county’s parks and recreation and construction staff members Sept. 7, Mayfair residents questioned the need for new athletic fields, mounted objections to the impacts of noise and lights, and raised concerns about safety as many more cars would be channeled through theirSomecommunity.members of the Town Council and Planning Commission claimed they had been kept out of the loop on the project—by the county government or town staff—and disputed assertions that town leaders previously had signed off on elements of the plan, most recently with a 2019 town limits boundary line adjust-
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 21 Rates
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
ment to accommodate the development plans.In January 2019, the Town Council voted unanimously to authorize Town Manager David Mekarski to move ahead with a condensed annexation process, swapping 4.4 acres to the county in return for 4.9 acres and clearing a path for building the new Fields Farm Park Road and new sports complex. At a county finance committee meeting Tuesday, county staff members reported they had provided overviews on the project to the Town Council in December 2017 and January 2021, and to a joint meeting of the Purcellville Town Council and Planning Commission this June.
• Fees may reduce earnings on account
As the Fields Farm sports complex nears the construction stage after decades of planning, the project is facing strong opposition from residents of the adjacent Mayfair neighborhood and members of the Town Council and Planning Commission.Plansfor the sports complex reach back to 2006—before the Mayfair neighborhood was built—when the county first signed an agreement with the Upper Loudoun Youth Football League that would have seen the league connect public water and sewer and build a football stadium, practice fields, parking, road infrastructure and other facilities. The league later pulled out of that agreement, but the county worked up its own master plan for the sports complex.
CDs must have the minimum balance of $1,000 and the MMA must have the $100,000 balance to obtain the 1 65% APY
A key concern of residents is the extension of the neighborhood’s main street, Mayfair Crown Drive, to Rt. 690. Although town and county staff members noted that link had been depicted on the plans of both jurisdictions for many years and the final pre-construction documents are under review, council and commission members told residents they would seek to halt it.
www.fairhousing.vipnet.org
This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov
Purcellville Town Manager David Mekarski and Mayor Kwasi Fraser speak during a Sept. 7 community meeting on the Fields Farm Park plans.
• Other stipulations: New money only, maximum of $5 million
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Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
CDs: Choose 9, 12 or 15 months at 2 35% Annual Percentage Yield Money Market Accounts: Up to 1 65% APY Rates subject to change at anytime Minimum of $500 to open/ $25,000 to earn interest
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All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”
Fields Farm Park Opponents Find Support Among Town Leaders
The Sept. 7 community meeting was a prelude to a Sept. 22 town Planning Commission public hearing on the rezoning, special exception and commission permits required to build eight lighted ballfields and a 260-space commuter parking lot on the property. The land was purchased by the county more than two decades ago for the purpose of establishing a lighted sports complex as an alternative to installing lights on the fields at Franklin Park, although a later Board of Supervisors ultimately voted to permit lights there. n
Purcellville to the Rescue
PAGE 22 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
MIDDLEBURG
Town Manager Jason Cournoyer said the day got started with a break on the north side of town, which was quickly repaired. However, a resulting pressure surge caused a larger break on the south end, near the Heritage Highlands neighborhood. The town’s utility staff was aided by a team from Purcellville in making the repairs, which took more than 12 hours to complete.
Middleburg will hold its second annual Oktoberfest on Saturday starting with an 11 a.m. keg tapping ceremony and continuing until 7 p.m.
The event also features an Art Fair. Coordinated by the Middleburg Arts Council, artwork from local and regional artists will be available for purchase. Regional artisans will also be present throughout the day with exhibits of fine art, pottery, jewelry, wearable art and more.
A kids area includes with a bouncy house, craft area, and giveaways.
Council Approves Street Sign Sale
Festivities will take place on South Madison Street and Federal Street. which will be closed to traffic. There will be two biergartens, traditional German food, live music, and festival games. Local beer, wine, cider, and traditional Oktoberfest foods will be available for purchase from local vendors.
The recent replacement of street signs throughout Middleburg has provided the
town with a new revenue opportunity.
After inquiries from some residents wanting to know if they could have one of the retired signs, the Town Council last week agreed to put 138 of them up for sale. Eschewing the option of an auction, the council opted for a $25 sales price, with proceeds going to the town’s charitable Health Center Fund.
The sale will be offered online, with preference will be given to in-town residents and business. More details will be announced after the sales platform is developed.
crowd, saying that existing flocks would be grandfathered and not impacted by the changes.Commissioners noted more people came out to speak on that issue than the recent hearings on efforts to update the town’s comprehensive plan.
For more information go to facebook.com/MiddleburgOktoberfest.
Google Eyes Free Wi-Fi Downtown
If the project moves forward, Google would fully fund the equipment, installation, and Wi-Fi services for at least three years. Buffington said there could be future opportunities to expand this program to other locations around town.
As the Town Council nears closing on the sale of Round Hill’s long-decommissioned reservoir, neighbors are objecting to the process used to find a new owner. Several residents of the Tree Crops Lane neighborhood where the 13-acre reservoir property is located attended the council’s Sept. 7 meeting to raise concerns including about the structure of the Request for Proposals used to solicit bids, the inclusion of additional property in the deal after the RFP was issued, and about the danger that could result from a breach in theMayordam.Scott
Ramsey said the sale was scheduled to close no later than Sept. 30 and that the council followed required procedures for the private sale of the land. Although some of the neighbors said they would likely pay more for the property than resulted from the RFP process, Ramsey said there were no plans to reopen solicitations.Thetown stopped using the reservoir as a public water source in the 1990s. n
The town staff has identified improvements to its systems and procedures aimed at reducing the likelihood of cascading failures in the future.
AROUND towns continued from page 20 for Won’t You Join Us? CommunityFoundationLF.org (703) 779-3505 The Oscar Revere and Tara Trout Family Foundation makes grants as recommended by its founders. Designed to Serve Your Charitable Vision From personalized family foundations, to memorial funds, to scholarship funds, to donor-advised funds, we can help you make a difference that never ends. A Community Foundation Fund in the Spotlight at Woodgrove High School 36811 Allder School Rd. Purcellville, VA Register ryanbartelfoundation.org/were-all-human-5k-color-runOnline SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT 10:00 AM Help Prevent Youth Suicide Run or walk this family-friendly 5K to benefit the Ryan Bartel Foundation! Experience the power of connection & community at this event filled with color and heart!
A pair of water main breaks on the north and south side of Lovettsville on Sept. 7 resulted in a busy day for members of the Town of Purcellville’s utility department.Lovettsville
PURCELLVILLE
It’s Okoberfest Time in Town
Supervisor Tony Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) this week announced plans by Google to offer free high-speed Wi-Fi service along North 21st Street.
The offering is part of the company’s good neighbor initiative in counties across the country where it has data centers.
Neighbors Question Reservoir Sale
ROUND HILL
continued from page 20
in Hunterneed. is survived by his son, H. Grafton deButts, Jr., daughter-in-law, Beth Maskey deButts, and two grandsons, Brennan and Thomas; his daughter, Jor dan deButts, and son-in-law, Robert Mc Millen; his sister Candice deButts Hub bard, and brother-in-law Garry Hubbard; sister Desiree deButts Farren and brotherin-law Kenneth Farren; brother Richard deButts; and brother Victor deButts and sister-in-law Bridgette deButts.
Susie’s greatest joy in life was her chil
Vietnam War as an infantryman, rank Army Specialist 4, until January 1971.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, September 19 at Halls Funeral Home in Purcellville, with Rev. Craig Newman officiating. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Halls Funeral Home from 12:00 - 1:00pm. Burial to follow funeral service at Hills boro Cemetery. Donations may be made to a veterans organization of the donor’s choosing.”
Ramsey said the names of Confederate officers were selected in an overt attempt to intimidate those pushing for integration and equal rights—and to make sure
Purcellville Town Manager David Mekarski has repeatedly warned the town council that the town government is understaffed; an outside consultant’s review of town staffing levels is expected to be ready this fall. n
Hunter Grafton deButts, Sr., age 73, of Leesburg, VA, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2022 at Blue Ridge Hospice Inpatient Care Center in Winchester, VA. Born the oldest son of five children to parents Elmer (“Jack”) deButts and Doris H. deButts, Hunter grew up on Grassley Farm in Waterford, VA, and graduated from Loudoun Valley High School, Class of In1968.February 1969, Hunter was drafted and proudly served his country in the
“The public interest is to undo what was done in 1963 and to say that it was wrong,” Ramsey said.
continued from page 23
Joyce Ann “Susie” Gustavson
The residents returned to the Sept. 7 Town Council meeting to continue their appeal. They said they don’t associate the name of their neighborhood street with events that happened more than 150 years ago and that the name had never been raised as a concern by anyone living there. They asked to be left alone and spared the costs and inconvenience of transitioning to new addresses.
ington, DC to the late Robert and Mary Elizabeth Stanton.
to all, Hunter loved to share experiences with those around him. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and marksman, and it was with joy he brought friends and family to his favorite spots on
Susie died September 7, 2022 in Lees burg, Virginia. She lived her active adult life in Fairfax County before moving into a nursing home in Leesburg. She was born August 11, 1942 in Wash
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 23
committee those delays are due in large part to staffing constraints. She said in the past year, the town has gotten up to full staffing, and added more people to review plats. She gave supervisors an update on the more recent work by town staff to get those reviews moving ahead.
Obituaries
Staffing crunch
dren. Her son, Scott Gustavson who pre deceased her in 2014; she leaves, Carrie Gustavson Whitmer & Ingrid Gustavson all of Leesburg, Virginia; Grandchildren Hanna Whitmer, Bronson Whitmer, Finn Gustavson, Declan Gustavson and Britta Gustavson. There was nothing she would not do to support and encourage all of them. She also survived her siblings David Stanton, Alice Stanton, and Carol Stanton.Shehad a great love for all her friends especially her 40 plus year annual girl friends beach trip, music, entertaining, politics, reading club, volunteering and
the Chesapeake Bay or the Outer Banks to fish on his boat, or to Grassley Farm for target practice. He passed these skills on to his children and grandchildren, teach ing them a love for the outdoors through fishing and safe shooting.
After serving, Hunter returned home to work alongside his father as a dairyman, and later worked as an auctioneer and real estate broker. His career led him to sales and telecom work overseas in Turkmen istan, Azerbaijan, and Russia, sparking a passion for travel that prevailed through out his life. In the early 2000s, after recovering from Lyme Disease, he became devoted to his own health, and found his true calling by helping others along their personal health journeys. His business gave him the opportunity to travel around Asia, where he settled in Thailand, spend ing half of his time until the pandemic in 2020.Afriend
the “right people” moved into those new homes.“This is just history. History sucks sometimes,” he said.
Prior to the development of Hillwood Estates, Mosby Court had been named Lyneldo Lane. n
In lieu of flowers donations can made to The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health.Please share condolences with the fam ily TAVSONtheTowww.LoudounFuneralChapel.comsendflowersoramemorialgifttofamilyofJOYCEANN“Susie”GUSpleasevisitourSympathyStore.
Mosby Court
“If this is what the citizens want, we should abide by their requests,” Vice Mayor Mary Anne Graham said.
Hunter inherited a love of animals, a characteristic shared and passed down through the deButts family. Throughout his life, Hunter held special relationships with cats, dogs, horses, groundhogs and birds, to name a few. His open door poli cy at his apartment in Leesburg welcomed all dogs of the neighborhood, squirrels, andAnhummingbirds.activemember of his community, Hunter marched with the American Orig inals Fife and Drum Corps, and contin ued to serve his country by volunteering as a member of the Virginia Defense Force. During the pandemic, Hunter con tributed his time to a local organization that provided meals and staples to those
That position also was supported by Council members Michael Hummel and Paula Jones. Councilman Jesse Howe did not attend the meeting, but submitted a letter supporting the position of the Mosby Court Mayorresidents.ScottRamsey, who does not get a vote on town issues except to break ties, urged the council to change the name. He said the timeline of the street names was an important factor. He noted that at the time the Hillwood Estates subdivision was created in 1963, Loudoun County was deeply embroiled in Massive Resistance—the state government’s policy to block desegregation of public schools.
Council members Sean Lloyd and Isaac Pacheco voted against the motion to not change the name.
When she was born the doctor said she looked like a Susie and she didn’t know her legal name until starting kindergar ten.She graduated from Fairfax High School in 1960. Susie worked various government jobs starting at the age of 16 in the Pentagon. She even donned a hard hat as a safety inspector for OSHA. She retired as a legal secretary after working many years at law firms. Her typing and short hand skills were like non other.
laugher.Susiemade friends where ever she went and could light up a room with her warm personality and love of people.
A celebration of life will be held at the Lightfoot Restaurant on September 25 from 2-5pm.
Ramsey said taking the Confederate names off the street signs was a case where the public interest should supersede the private interests of the Mosby Court residents, who he noted were not to blame in the controversy.
HunterdeButts,GraftonSr.
A majority of council members cited the unanimous wishes of the residents in voting to support their request.
demonstratesSeidelmanMichael his gunsmith skills at the Waterford2018Fair.
Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing It’s a fun afternoon of jug funk and “jamcoustic” sounds from the Brahman Noodles with new songs along with old favorites from Jerry Garcia, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones and more.
“Surprisingly, our attendance numbers were pretty average,” she said. “I think people were ready to get out there.”
Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: Alexandria’svillageatleesburg.comDanBarryblends rock, jazz, folk and soul influences to create a unique sound.
Live Music: Bryan Williams Friday, Sept. 16, 7 p.m.
on page 25
Live Music: Eyes of the Nile Iron Maiden Tribute Friday, Sept. 16, 8 p.m.
“Bluemont Fair is a country fair at its roots. That’s our focus and we try to stick to that,” said Co-chair Cynthia Morris.
VAL Plaza Party: DanYko Friday, Sept. 16, 6-9 p.m.
After canceling the 2020 fair, organizers brought it back last year with COVID protocols in place, including a reduced number of vendors to allow distancing. But attendance levels were close to preCOVID numbers in 2021, Morris said.
In keeping with this year’s theme, organizers have set up a special exhibit in the historic E.E. Lake Store. “Bluemont—Our Agricultural Roots” features interviews and information about the history of agriculture in and around the village.The
Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now
FESTIVALS continues
Live Music: Dave Mininberg Friday, Sept. 16, 7 p.m.
The Branch, 49 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg Details: bowlthebranch.com
DanielleLoudounNadler/Now
Well known for his work with the band 7th Son of WV, Mininberg brings a unique blend of originals, classic rock, blues and country.
Elysium Axe Bar, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: Williamselysiumaxebar.complaysamixoforiginals and covers in a range of genres from Chris Cornell to Willie Nelson to Red Hot Chili Peppers.
And this year, the fair returns to its normal density—and a full, family-oriented slate of events.
Downtown Leesburg Details: crossroadsmusicfest.org
‘We’re Looking at Being Back to Normal’
Enjoy an afternoon of acoustic rock, blues, soul and folk from a favorite local duo.
This year’s theme is Bluemont’s agricultural roots with a focus on draft horses. The fair will include a field with draft horses and old-school farming implements on loan from the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, including farrows, platers, and horse-drawn wagons.
Live Music: Collective Friday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.
8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford Details: 8chainsnorth.com
Family Fun and Agricultural Roots in Bluemont
Bluemont Fair organizers have always prided themselves on staying true to the village’s rural roots.
LOCO LIVE
THINGS TO DO continues on page 28
Every fall, western Loudoun’s towns and villages roll out the red carpet for visitors and locals alike with regionally (and nationally) famous fall festivals. The pandemic took a toll on those beloved events, with all three festivals in Loudoun’s autumnal triple crown canceled or moved online in 2020. Last year saw scaled-back events as organizers juggled uncertainty and COVID-related restrictions. But this year, The Bluemont Fair, Lovettsville Oktoberfest and Waterford Fair are back in their full glory, with fun-filled weekends for Loudouners and tourists over three upcoming weekends.
“We’re excited about that. It’s something new we haven’t had,” Morris said.
spinning wheels making yarn and looms making textiles. There will also be a petting zoo and traditional games and activities for children.
Live Music: Deane Kern and Eric Selby Saturday, Sept. 17, 2 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 17, 5-10 p.m.
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: DMV-basedtallyhotheater.comEyesoftheNile delivers Iron Maiden favorites with intensity and emotion. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $35 for VIP seats.
The annual live music showcase benefiting Loudoun nonprofits serving children is back with 25 musicians and bands and ten outdoor venues in downtown Leesburg.
The Bluemont Fair takes place Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Bluemont. For tickets and information, go to bluemontfair. org. Tickets are $10 for visitors 10 and over. Admission for children 9 and under is free.
Western Loudoun’s Fall Festivals are Back
After Two Years, the Oktoberfest Party is Back in Lovettsville
Featured performers include Gray Smallwood, Frayed Knots, Big Bad Juju, Chris Timbers and Juliana MacDowell Admission is free, but
Jeff Schutte, a local educator and longtime town resident, wanted to help bring back his town’s beloved festival—even if that meant stepping up to run the show. As Oktoberfest chairman and festmeister, Schutte has worked with Town Council members and other volunteers to rebuild the event organizing committee. The result is a return to a full two-day schedule
THINGS to do
Face painting at the 2016 Bluemont Fair.
PAGE 24 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Crossroads Music Festival
Bluemont continues to focus on its niche as a source of old-fashioned family fun, with its popular fiber arts field where families can follow wool from source to finished product, with sheep and llamas,
In Lovettsville, town leadership ruffled a few feathers in 2021 when it decided not to move forward with the town’s annual Oktoberfest for a second year in a row. The popular festival, which celebrates the Northwest Loudoun town’s German roots, was named one of the top 28 Oktoberfest celebrations in the world by OktoberfestBeerFestivals.com in 2018. But pandemic uncertainty and upheavals in the festival’s leadership led the town to cancel the event once again last fall.
LoCo Living
Live Music: Brahman Noodles Saturday, Sept. 17, noon
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Jason Houtz holds aloft the winner of the 2019 Lovettsville Oktoberfest Wiener Dog Races, Huck.
2022 fair will feature several music stages, booked by local musician Todd Brooks who will also perform Saturday afternoon with his full band. The Bluemont Community Center stage features traditional music and dance, while the Wine & Beer Garden stage features well known country and rock acts including Gary Smallwood, Delta Spur and Rowdy Ace. The fair also offers a speakers stage with talks from local authors and historians and presentations from noted archaeologist David Clark.
BY JAN MERCKER jmercker@loudounnow.com
MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: Collectivemacsbeach.commakestheirMac’s Beach debut with the best of the ‘80s, ‘90s, 2000s and today.
“To me, that’s a huge confidence booster that shows the Waterford welcome,” Kirkman said.
Visitors can once again get a peek inside some of the village’s iconic historic homes, while garden tours will also be offered if folks prefer to stay outside.
“It’s such a cool thing that we do, and the song is awesome. Over the last two years, whenever I hear it on the radio, it brings that memory back to me,” Schutte said. “It’s a huge party and I love it being right here…It’s a great community event.
The 78th Waterford Fair takes place Friday, Oct. 7 through Sunday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Single day tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for students 13 to 21 and free for children 12 and under. Three-day passes are available for $30. Pre-registration is also available for in-demand talks and workshops. For a complete schedule, tickets and information, go to waterfordfairva.org. n
Friday, Sept. 23 from 5 to 11 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 24 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free. For more information and a complete schedule, go to lovettsvilleoktoberfest.com.
with food, beer, children’s activities and lots of live music.
The ‘Waterford Welcome’ Returns
At the 78th Waterford Fair, residents of the historic village are once again opening their doors to visitors for homes tours. And the juried crafters from around the U.S. that the fair is known for are returning for the three-day event Oct. 7-9.
Festivals
continued
After taking the fair online in 2020 and operating a scaled-back event in 2021 featuring garden tours instead of the traditional interior tours, the fair is back to a pre-COVID layout and program. Kirkman adds that the longtime tradition of villagers and nearby residents hosting traveling crafters in their homes has also returned this year, with 30 artisans staying in local homes.
The time-honored tradition of a Rocktoberfest concert from local favorites Ghost Pepper and the annual attempt to break the world record for a group rendition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” moves from Friday night to Saturday night this year because of band availability. The singalong is one of Schutte’s favorite traditions, a longtime community bonding experience that locals eagerly await each year.
The jam-packed 2022 schedule includes the traditional Friday evening German-themed dinner from the Lovettsville Lions Club, which also hosts the annual Oktoberfest royalty competition—reigning king and queen Chris Gardner and Rebekah Ontiveros have held their titles since 2019—and a Friday evening concert from ’80s band The Reflex. Saturday’s events include a new 5K and fun run, traditional Bavarian music and Kinderfest children’s activities in the historic downtown and the main tent with food, beer and music throughout the day on the nearby Town Green. The committee is bringing back stein hoisting and hauling competitions and another fan favorite on Saturday: the annual wiener dog races, featuring 32 adorable dachshunds in two afternoon brackets. With the construction of a new town hall building since the 2019 festival, organizers have moved the races from the town hall lawn to Zoldos Square in the town’s Squirkle. Town leaders have named the championship cup in honor of Kaiser, an Oktoberfest wiener dog race superstar and multi-year winner who died unexpectedly this summer at the age of 9.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 25
“Like everyone else, we were bummed but understood in 2020, and then we were really bummed in 2021,” Schutte said. “We said we’ll do whatever it takes to bring it Schutteback.”has worked with volunteer coordinator Lizzy Fontaine (wife of the town’s mayor Nate Fontaine), Town Council members Joy Pritz, Tony Quintana and Vice Mayor Chris Hornbaker and a committee of volunteers to bring the fest back to its former glory Sept. 23 and“We24. want to redo as much as we can, pick up where we left off and build on it,” Schutte said.
It’s really well organized and very positive for the Lovettsvilletown.”Oktoberfest takes place
from page 24
Organizers are expanding the fair’s musical offerings this year with a first ever Friday afternoon show. Award-winning California-based bluegrass band AJ Lee and Blue Summit perform two shows Friday afternoon. Local favorites Fiddlin’ Dave and Morgan take the stage Saturday, and the Danny Knicely Trio performs Sunday.Kirkman says this year’s fair also features new fodder for “history nerds,” including an exhibit on Waterford’s “remarkable Quaker women” and talks from living historian and salt maker Jim Bordwine (who appeared on the History Channel’s “Mountain Men”) and historian Rebecca Suerdieck who explores perfume-making practices in 18th Century Virginia.
“We’re looking at being back to normal,” said Fair Director Tracy Kirkman. “Our demonstrating artisan numbers are back up. It’s wonderful to see that they’re feeling comfortable getting back out.”
Crossroads Music Festival Rocks Downtown Leesburg on Saturday
BEST BETS
The event is a showcase for area artists and a community fundraiser for BENEFIT, a coalition of musicians and community leaders uniting people with music to raise funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations serving children in Loudoun County. In May, the organization awarded $24,000 in grants to nonprofits from the proceeds from last year’s festival and its Hope for the Holidays online music special.
BENEFIT’s Crossroads Music Festival returns to downtown Leesburg on Saturday, bringing performances by more than 25 musicians and bands on 10 stages.
THE ULTIMATE AC/DC EXPERIENCE Saturday, Sept. 17, 7 p.m. (doors)
Knots, Richard Goldman, Dave Goodrum, Rob Hoey, Ella Levri and Todd Wright, LK3MY5T, MAAM, Mike McCab, Juliana MacDowell, Dave Mininberg, Mintons Academy of Music, Purple Voyagers, Moonlight Ride, Chris Timbers Band, The Rearview, Max Redding and The Dogwood Gospel, Summer and Eric, The Robert Rogers Blues Band, Rule Of 3rds, Gary Smallwood, and Train Wreck
COLLECTIVE Friday, Sept. 16, 6-10 p.m. MacDowell’s Beach macsbeach.com
Saturday, Sept. 17, 5-10 p.m.
Downtown Leesburg crossroadsmusicfest.org
PAGE 26 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
To purchase passes, see the performance schedule and other details, go to crossroadsmusicfest.org. n
The music kicks off at 5 p.m. Sept. 17 with a performance on the courthouse lawn and continues until 10 p.m. at SideBar, Schmidt’s Barbecue, Goose Cup, King’s Tavern, Black Walnut Brewery, MacDowell’s Beach, Dynasty West Brewing, Delirium Café and the Town Green.Performing artists—all donating their time for the fundraiser—include Ache Harvest, Big Bad Juju, Laurie Blue, Anthony Covert, Robert Crerie and the Freedom Band, Ben Demase, Tamara Mae Dovell, Favorite Child, Frayed
CROSSROADS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Passes are not required for entry at any venue, however proceeds from pass sales benefit nonprofit organizations. There also will be opportunities to make additional donations at the venues.
THE NEW ROMANCE Saturday, Sept. 17, 6-10 p.m. Tarara Winer tararaconcerts.comy
Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheaer.com
Endings.Passes are available online and at each performance venue during the festival. Passes purchased in advance online will be $20 and those purchased on-site will be $30. With purchase of a festival pass, attendees will receive a wristband and a 2022 Crossroads Music Festival T-shirt at check-in. Wristbands will provide attendees access to event-day specials at participating music venues.
Utility Plant Technician or Senior Utility Plant Technician Utilities $50,000-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled
Administrative Associate I
$50,000-$75,040 DOQ Open until filled
Position Department
Public Works & Capital Projects $93,438-$169,567 DOQ Open until filled
Utility Plant Operator Trainee, I or II Utilities $50,000-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled
Urban Forester/Landscape Management Specialist Public Works & Capital Projects $67,175-$121,947 DOQ Open until filled
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 27 Post your job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com Post your job listings NowHiringLoudoun.comat CMYCYMYCMK NHLEmployerCard2.pdf 1 9/3/19 10:58 AM Let us help nd your next employee. • Candidate Search • Resume Postings • Employer Dashboard and much more NHLEmployerCard2.pdf 1 9/3/19 10:58 AM Search, nd and contact applicants directly on your mobile device or desktop. Manage prospective employees and resumes from a convenient secure dashboard NowHiringLoudoun.com BE A TAX PRO No experience necessary. Will train. Free classes starting Sept. 19th. Day and evening classes available Small fee for books Bonus paid upon completion Call or 571-306-1955text for more information Position Department Hourly Rate Closing Date Receptionist I Public Information $20.51-$33.42 DOQ Open until filled Regular Part-TimeEmploymentTownPositionofLeesburgOpportunities 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 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.
Town Manager’s Office $93,438-$169,567 DOQ Open until filled
Emergency Management Coordinator
Deputy Director of Public Works and Capital Projects
Emergency Management $67,175-$121,947 DOQ Open until filled
Public Works & Capital Projects $50,000-$75,040 DOQ 9/29/2022
Laboratory Technician Utilities $50,000-$88,071 DOQ Open until filled
Parks Operations Supervisor Parks & Recreation $56,956-$103,363 DOQ Open until filled Police Officer Police $62,000-$94,966 DOQ Open until filled
Stormwater and Environmental Manager
Public Works & Capital Projects $82,999-$150,445 DOQ Open until filled
Utility Inspector II Utilities $56,956-$103,363 DOQ Open until filled
Senior Planner (Preservation and Zoning Administration) Planning & Zoning $67,175-$121,947 DOQ Open until filled
Maintenance Worker I
Salary Range Closing Date
Public Works & Capital Projects
Thomas Balch Library $52,446-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled
Project Manager Utilities $76,426-$138,530 DOQ Open until filled
Management Analyst (Sustainability & Resiliency)
Cataloger/Reference Librarian
Senior Engineer Plan Review $70,374,$127,560 DOQ 9/29/2022
White and brown MongooseRebelbicycle model#R2356WM
The Branch, 49 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg Details: bowlthebranch.com
VAL Plaza Party: Rowdy Ace Band
optional festival passes are available for sale and include a t-shirt and specials at participating venues. Festival passes are $20 online, $30 at the door and support local nonprofits.
Wheatland Spring Oktoberfest
Dulles Plane Pull Festival Saturday, Sept. 17, 10:30 am.-4 p.m. Washington Dulles International Airport, 1 Saarinen Circle, Chantilly Details: specialolympicsva.org/plane-pull
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLES
Claude Moore Park Fall Festival
Create Local Jobs Shop LoCo
Spend a beautiful fall day outdoors and enjoy music and pumpkin painting. Shop from hand-made crafts from local artists. Food will be available for sale. No registration is required.
Saturday, Sept. 17, 6-9 p.m.
Coffeehouse Theatre: ‘Thought You Were Dead’ Sunday, Sept. 18, 6:30-8 p.m.
MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: Richmond-basedmacsbeach.comWimbish performs traditional country, bluegrass, classic rock, and blues songs along with crowd-pleasing originals.
Red GauntletDynacraftbicycle SO220013207 8/31/22 44020 Choptank Terr. Ashburn, VA 571-367-84009/15&9/22/22
Legal Notices
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com
JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary Open House Sunday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Stumptown Road and New Valley Church Road, TheDetails:Leesburgloudounwildlife.orgLoudounWildlifeConservancy’s inaugural
Claude Moore Park, 21544 Vestals Gap Road, Sterling Details: facebook.com/claudemoorepark
Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
THINGS to do
The Dulles Plane Pull festival benefit for Special Olympics Virginia is back with 100 local teams competing to pull a plane. The event also features a truck pull for children, community exhibitors, fire truck rides, aircraft displays, a classic car show and more. Admission is free.
This fun-filled event features two German biergartens, German inspired food, a stein holding contest, local
Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, AmericanaDetails:Purcellville franklinparkartscenter.orgmusicianKateMacLeod is an awardwinning songwriter and fiddle player who puts stories to music with historic characters, miners, sailors, river runners and pioneer women.
Live Music: Live Wire AC/DC Tribute Saturday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m.
NOTICE OF ABANDONED BICYCLES
MiddleburgLIBATIONSOktoberfest
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.
LOCO CULTURE
Live Music: Wayne Snow Sunday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m.
SO220014482 8/16/22
YR. MAKE MODEL VIN STORAGE PHONE# 2004 HONDA CIVIC SHHEP335X4U504460 ROAD RUNNER 9/15703-450-7555&9/22/22
Loudoun Jazz Jam Sunday, Sept. 18, 1 p.m. Chefscape, 1602 Village Market Blvd. # 115, JoinDetails:Leesburgchefscapekitchen.comtheLoudounJazzSocietyevery third Sunday for a fun jazz jam.
artist showcase, live music and children’s activities. Admission is free.
continued from page 24
Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery, 38506 John Wolford Road, Waterford Details: wheatlandspring.com
Music for Dessert: Kate MacLeod Tuesday, Sept. 20, 7-8 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Washington Street, Middleburg Details: facebook.com/middleburgoktoberfest
Catch all your favorites from this top-notch AC/DC tribute band. Tickets are $15.
Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: Pop/rock/folkflyingacefarm.comartistsTommy Gann and Kim Pittinger have been writing music and performing together since 2014.
Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville Details: Loudounfranklinparkartscenter.orgplaywrightRichFinkpresents an original script “Thought You Were Dead,” a comedy about three friends with an unusual dilemma, as Franklin Park’s Readers Coffeehouse Theatre returns. Tickets are $8.
Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., EnjoyDetails:Leesburgvillageatleesburg.comafunmixofcountryand rock tunes from Rowdy Ace on the plaza.
868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com
Live Music: Tommy and Kim Sunday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m.
Notice is hereby given that the bicycles described below were found and delivered to the Office of the Sheriff of Loudoun County; if the owners of the listed bicycles are not identified within sixty (60) days following the final publication of this notice, the individuals who found said bicycles shall be entitled to them if he/ she desires. All unclaimed bicycles will be handled according to Chapter 228.04 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County.
PAGE 28 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Cascades Pkwy/ Hampshire Station Dr. Sterling, VA 571-367-8400
Black Oak Sanctuary open house lets community members learn more about the wetlands mitigation project, conservation easements and community involvement. The event features short nature walks to explore the sanctuary’s vernal pools and the creatures they support. The sanctuary is not generally open to the public to protect the environmentally sensitive habitat.
Think of your favorite mixtape from the ’80s coming to life as The New Romance cranks out high energy favorites. Tickets are $20.
The event features special beer releases, a fest tent, traditional Oktoberfest music, German cuisine and children’s activities. Tickets are $25 and include a beer stein and first pour. Admission is $5 for designated drivers and $2 for children 1 and over.
Tarara Summer Concert Series: The New Romance Saturday, Sept. 17, 6-9:30 p.m.
Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Lucketts Details: tararaconcerts.com
Wayne Snow is a singer/songwriter based out of Shepherdstown, WV with a fun repertoire of indie, folk, pop and rock songs.
Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Live Music: Cary Wimbish Thursday, Sept. 22, 5 p.m.
The award-winning D.C.-based singer/songwriter returns to his Leesburg roots for an evening of topnotch Americana.
Live Music: Justin Trawick Saturday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m.
Description NumberCase RecoveryDate Recovery Location NumberPhone
RFP No. 100124-FY23-14
For additional information, http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboardvisit:09/15/22
Economic Development Strategy Plan Consultant
LOUDOUN URGENT VETERINARIAN
GG Purcellville, LLC trading as Gringo Gordo Empanada Cafe, 609 E Main Street, Suite N1 & 2, Purcellville, VA 20132
09/15 & 09/22
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE MIDDLEBURG PLANNING COMMISSION
The request is to allow, as a secondary use, the residential dwelling to be rented for lodging purposes for periods of fewer than 30 consecutive days.
CASE NO. C142200155200
For additional information, http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboardvisit:09/15/22
An affidavit having been made and filed stating that diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of Defendant GERTRUDE BASIL NOLAN who is believed to be living, and there is no post office known to the plaintiffs.
PUBLIC PROPOSALREQUESTNOTICEFOR(RFP)
The Town of Leesburg will accept proposals electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia. gov), until 3:00 p.m. on October 12, 2022, for the following:
RFP No. 500610-FY23-16
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Minor Special Exception application TLSE-2022-0006, Loudoun Urgent TheVeterinarian.subjectof the application is an existing commercial space addressed as 135 Robinson Mill Plaza. The property is zoned B-3, Community Retail/Commercial District and is further described as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 149-45-7258.
The Town is soliciting bids for the purchase of 0.72 pounds of authorized nutrient credits of phosphorus from an approved nutrient credit bank in the HUC 8 watershed (HUC-8-02070008). These nutrient credits are to provide the required water quality treatment for improvements associated with the construction of the Morven Park Road Sidewalk project in the Town of Leesburg.
Special Use 22-01 Request Michael A. Pappas for a special use permit for Limited Residential Lodging at 5 North Jay Street zoned R-3 Residential District.
COURT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY
The hearing will take place at the Town Office, 10 W. Marshall Street, Middleburg, Virginia. The file for this application may be reviewed online at www.middleburgva.gov/313/Public-Hearings or in the Town Office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. Questions may be directed to Deputy Town Manager Will Moore at (540) 687-5152 or by email at wmoore@ Themiddleburgva.govTownofMiddleburg strives to make its hearings accessible to all. Please advise of accommodations the Town can make to help you participate in the hearing.
9/8 & 9/15/22
The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine & Beer On/Off, Mixed Beverage On license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.
Mark Pajak, Owner
Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.
9/15 & 9/22/22
LoudounNow.com
It is hereby ORDERED that the said nonresident defendant GERTRUDE BASIL, do appear and protect her interests on or before the 18th day of November, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. and do what is necessary to protect her interests.
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSE-2022-0006
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Scott E. Parker, Senior Planning Project Manager at 703-771-2771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov
Minor Special Exception Application TLSE-2022-0006 is a request by Loudoun Urgent Veterinarian to allow a 2,400 square foot veterinary hospital pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section 6.5.2, Use Regulations
9/15, 9/22, 9/29, & 10/06/22
The Town of Leesburg will accept bids electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia. gov), until 3:00 p.m. on September 30, 2022 for the following:
WATER AND SANITARY SEWER UTILITY RATE STUDY
The Town of Leesburg (the “Town”) is soliciting sealed proposals to establish a contract to provide water and sanitary sewer utility rate study services. A non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held on Thursday, September 22, 2022, at 1:00 PM (local time). The pre-proposal meeting will be live streamed via Microsoft TEAMS and made available to the public.
PUBLIC NOTICE UNSEALED INVITATION FOR BID (IFB)
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 29
UIFB NO. SIDEWALKMORVEN14301-FY23-22PARKROADNUTRIENTCREDITS
The object of this suit is to effect partition amongst the owners by sale of a 1.1216-acre parcel of land located in Loudoun County, Virginia at 20965 Greengarden Road, Bluemont, Virginia 20165, with a PIN of 65538-8138, of which Victoria S. Davis died in 1958 seised and possessed.
PUBLIC PROPOSALREQUESTNOTICEFOR(RFP)
VIRGINIA:INTHECIRCUIT
The Town of Leesburg is soliciting sealed proposals from experienced and wellqualified firms to develop, in partnership with Department of Economic Development staff, a comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan.
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
The Middleburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 26, 2022 to hear public comments on the following:
THOMAS EDWARD REID, et al. SHERRELPlaintiffs,v.S.HARMON, et al. Defendants.
The Town of Leesburg will accept proposals electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia. gov), until 3:00 p.m. on October 20, 2022 for the following:
For additional information, http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboardvisit:09/15/22
Legal Notices
ABC LICENSE
Legal Notices
NEW HILLSBORO 447-48-2053 /26//24/////2/ 10.74
Greenhill Landscaping of Great Falls, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) amend the existing proffers and Concept Development Plan (“CDP”) approved with ZMAP-2007-0006, Tall Oaks Lot 1, in order to: 1) allow a contractor service establishment with outdoor storage; 2) to rezone the subject property from the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance as amended through September 29, 2010 to the PD-IP (Planned Development –Industrial Park) under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance as amended (“Zoning Ordinance”) in order to develop a contractor service establishment with outdoor storage; and 3) a Special Exception to develop a contractor service establishment with outdoor storage in excess of 20% of the lot area, pursuant to Section 5-662 and is permitted by Special Exception under Section 4-504 (HH) of the Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District and the Route 28 CB (Corridor Business) Optional Overlay District. The subject property is approximately 1.39 acres in size and is located on the north side of Woodland Road (Route 679) and on the west side of Cascades Parkway (Route 637) at 45934 Woodland Road, Sterling, Virginia, in the Sterling Election District. The property is more particularly described as PIN: 031-49-7342. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type)), which designate this area for a mix of office, production, flex space, and warehousing uses at densities up to 1.0 FAR. An earlier version of this advertisement incorrectly identified another Place Type.
INTERIM ADDITIONS TO AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTAL DISTRICTS
(FAR) of up to 1.0. ZCPA-2020-0004, ZRTD-2020-0004 & SPEX-2020-0015
NEW HUGHESVILLE 4 Years 25 Acres December 7, 2021
BANAKHOJASTESPEX-2020-0031CHILDCARE CENTER (Special Exception)
Citizens are encouraged to call the Department of Planning and Zoning on the day of the public hearing to confirm that an item is on the agenda, or, the most current agenda may be viewed on the Planning Commission’s website at www.loudoun.gov/pc. In the event that the second Thursday is a holiday or the meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be moved to the third Tuesday of the month. In the event that Tuesday is a holiday or the Tuesday meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be held on the following Thursday. The meeting will be held at a place determined by the
The LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on the first floor of the County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following:
Applications have been received by the Loudoun County Department of Planning and Zoning and referred to the Agricultural District Advisory Committee (ADAC) and the Planning Commission pursuant to Chapter 43, Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia to amend the ordinances for the following Agricultural and Forestal Districts to add the following parcels:
Sam Banakhojaste of Sterling, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit a Child Care Center use in the CR-1(Countryside Residential-1) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 2-504(X). The subject property is approximately 0.96 acres in size and is located on the west side of Potomac View Road (Route 637) and north of Palisade Parkway (Route 1795), at 20935 Potomac View Road, Sterling, Virginia, in the Algonkian Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 012-35-1065. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Neighborhood Place Type)), which designate this area for master planned neighborhoods with medium-to-large residential lots, and Retail and Service uses to serve the routine shopping and service needs of the immediate neighborhood at a non-Residential Floor Area Ratio
Any owner of additional qualifying land may join the applications with consent of the Board of Supervisors, at any time before the public hearing that the Board of Supervisors must hold on the applications. Additional qualifying lands may be added to an already created District at any time upon separate application pursuant to Chapter 43, Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia.
District PIN Tax Map Number Acres Enrolled
WOODLAND PLAZA TALL OAKS, LOT 1 (Zoning Concept Plan Amendment, Zoning Conversion & Special Exception)
9/8, 9/15 & 9/22/22
LoudounNow.com
is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings at all other locations. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246. Please provide three days’ notice.
PUBLIC HEARING
Any owner who joined in the application may withdraw their land, in whole or in part, by written notice filed with the Board of Supervisors, at any time before the Board of Supervisors acts pursuant to Virginia Code Section 15.2-4309.
Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-7770246 prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Planning Commission, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to loudounpc@loudoun.gov. If written comments are presented at the hearing, please provide ten (10) copies for distribution to the Commission and the Clerk’s records. All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Any individual representing and/or proposing to be the sole speaker on behalf of a citizen’s organization or civic association is encouraged to contact the Department of Planning and Zoning prior to the date of the public hearing if special arrangements for additional speaking time and/or audio-visual equipment will be requested. Such an organization representative will be allotted 6 minutes to speak, and the Chairman may grant additional time if the request is made prior to the date of the hearing and the need for additional time is reasonably justified.
NEW HUGHESVILLE 456-10-1614 /45////////52/ 10.00
NEW HILLSBORO 4 Years 20 Acres April 11, 2022
Each of these Districts will be reviewed prior to its expiration date pursuant to Chapter 1226 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County.
HearingChairman.assistance
LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
NEW FEATHERBED 466-36-1590 /87/E/1////38/ 25.25
The conditions and periods of the foregoing Agricultural and Forestal Districts to which parcels are being considered for addition are as follows:
In accordance with Section 15.2-4307 of the Code of Virginia, the applications may be examined by request at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by calling 703-777 0246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies or electronically at: https://www.loudoun.gov/adac (8-4-2022 ADAC Meeting under Agendas and Bylaws). Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/pc (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for Public Hearings Packet).
PAGE 30 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Received applications were referred to the Agricultural District Advisory Committee “ADAC” for review and recommendation. The ADAC held a public meeting on August 4, 2022, to consider the applications. The report and recommendations of the ADAC will be considered by the Planning Commission at its public hearing on September 27, 2022. The reports and recommendations of the ADAC and the Planning Commission will be considered by the Board of Supervisors at its public hearing.
BY ORDER OF: FOREST HAYES, CHAIRMAN
NEW FEATHERBED 4 Years 40 Acres November 4, 2018
Unless otherwise noted above, full and complete copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances and/or plans, and related documents may be examined in the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703-7770220, or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. Additionally, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically the week before the hearing at www.loudoun.gov/pc. For further information, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246.
District Period Subdivision Minimum Lot Size Period Start Date
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Starh Rahimi
VONDELL PERRY ETHEL VIRGINIATHOMASEVELYNCHARLETTAMYRTLEGRACIEFRANKREGINAKATRINAMORRISMORRISMORRIS-ABERCROMBIEMORRISIIMORRISGATESMORRISREDERICKMORRIS-HOLMESMORRISBOGANSPAGE,JR.ROSEMARIEGUNNBRENDASTANCILHENDERSONSTANCILJOSEPHGERALD,JR.ISSACLAWSON,JR.DIANESTANCILLORENZOSTANCILDOUGLASSTANCIL,JR.BRITINASTANCILHARRISREGINASTANCILTOWSONLeKEITHSTANCILLUTHERPETERSONROBERTL.PETERSONBARBARAPETERSONWHITTINGTONMICHAELPETERSONPHILLIPPETERSONJUNIORALEXANDERPETERSONJAMESPETERSONTHEUNKNOWNHEIRSATLAW&SUCCESSORSININTERESTOFDOUGLASPETERSON,SR.a/IdaFREDDOUGLASPETERSON,SR.andJOSEPHINEPETERSON, who are made parties defendant by the general description "PARTIES UNKNOWN"
It is ORDERED that the defendant Manuel Bardales appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before September 1, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (Adjudicatory) and October 12, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. (Dispositional)
LegalLoudounNow.comNotices
VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LOUDOUN CIVILCOUNTYACTION NO. OLT-L-563
IT FURTHER APPEARING to the Court, by affidavit, that diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the identities and location of the parties identified as "PARTIES UNKNOWN"; it is thereforeORDERED, that pursuant to Virginia Code §§8.01-316 and 58.1-3967, that the following Defendants appear before this Court on October 7, 2022 at 10:00 a.m., and do what is necessary to protect their interests herein:
THE COUNTY OF LOUDOUN Plaintiff,v.
The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-253 for Mailin Perez Munoz; and hold a dispositional hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.2 for Mailin Perez Munoz.
establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Marketplac license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.
Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
a. The first parcel contains 0.25 acres, more or less, vacant land with miscellaneous improvements, no situs address, located near Bluemont, Virginia and identified by Loudoun County PIN 653-37-8564-000 and Tax Map Number /53////////38/ and is further described among the land records of Loudoun County, VirginiaAllas:the
John Beers, putative father & Cathryn Beers, Mother
b. The second parcel contains 0.41 acres, more or less, with improvements, located at 33670 Austin Grove Road, Bluemont, Virgin ia 20135 and identified by Loudoun County PIN 653-37-8651-000 and Tax Map Number /53////////36/ and is further described among the land records of Loudoun County, Virginia as:
MICHAEL STEVENS
ANTHONY ANDRE WILKINS
Case No.: JJ044816-02-00
Mohamad Wali, putative father The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-252 for Starh Rahimi; and hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Starh Rahimi.
Felicity, LLC trading as Paint Nail Bar, 1601 Village Market Blvd SE, Suite 117, Leesburg, VA
Case No.: JJ046453-01-00
bounded as follows: Lot No. 3 begin ning at post and running S 68 V2 E. 8.24
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Alexander Beers
Karen M. Willis / Manager-member
following described tract and parcel of land, with all the improve ments thereon and appurtenances thereunto appertaining, situated, lying and being in Countythe of Loudoun and State of Virginia, and near the place called the Trapp, and
ABC LICENSE
Case No.: JJ046179-01-00
Loudoun County Department of Family/v.Services
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
AND BEING a portion of the same property, conveyed to Robert L. Peterson and Estus Peterson by deed dated May 10, 1930, recorded at Deed Book 10-F-320, 4D-441 WB, among the land records of Loudoun County, Virginia.
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. 9/15 & 9/22/22
IT FURTHER APPEARING that there are or may be persons whose names are unknown, including heirs at law and successors in interest of Douglas Peterson, Sr. and Josephine Peterson, who may have a potential ownership interest in the Properties and they are set out in the pleadings as defendants by the general description of "PAR TIES UNKNOWN."
The20175above
Manuel/v.ServicesBardales
IT FURTHER APPEARING to the Court, by affidavit, that there are certain individuals who may have a potential ownership interest in the Properties, and are therefore named as Defendants in this suit, who, based upon their last known address, are nonresident individuals.
Loudoun County Department of Family/v.Services
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282 and 16.1-281 for Alexander Beers.
Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
9/15 & 9/22/22
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Mailin Perez Munoz
8/25, 9/1, 9/8 & 9/15/22
It is ORDERED that the defendant John Beers, putative father and Cathryn Beers, Mother appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before October 24, 2022 at 3:009/15,p.m.9/22, 9/29 & 10/6/22
IT APPEARING TO THE COURT, that the object of the above-styled suit is to achieve the judicial sale of real estate located in Loudoun County, Virginia, for the purpose of collecting delinquent real estate taxes assessed against the subject real estate, consisting of two parcels (the "Properties").
33670 Austin Grove Road Bluemont, Virginia 20135
HEIRS AT LAW & SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF DOUGLAS PETERSON, SR. a/k/a FRED DOUGLAS PETERSON, SR. and JOSEPHINE PETERSON, et al.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 31
It is ORDERED that the defendant Mohamad Wali, putative father appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before September 28, 2022 at 3:00pm (Adjudicatory) and October 27, 2022 at 10:00am (Dispositional).9/15, 9/22, 9/29 & 10/6/22
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
poles to a cross fence, thence with said fence N 14 3/4 E 10 poles to an iron pin thence N 72 W 7.28 poles to an iron pin, thence S 20 W 9.60 poles to the place of beginning. Containing 10,662 square feet, more or less.
MARLENE PETERSON LAWSON a/k/a MARLENE PETERSON HOWARD SHIRLEY PETERSON BARTON FREDERICK D. PETERSON MARILYN KAY PETERSON LINDA M. PETERSON DIXON
IT FURTHER APPEARING to the Court, by affidavit, that the record owners of the Properties are the heirs at law and successors in interest of Douglas Peterson, Sr. and Josephine Peterson.
Defendants.
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Loudoun County Department of Family
MICHELLE STEVENS
All the following described tract and parcel of land, with all the improve ments thereon and appurtenances thereunto appertaining, situated, lying and being in Loudoun County and near the Trapp (a town in said County), Vir ginia, adjoining the lands of Dr. Wiley and others and bounded as follows by a survey made on the 28th day of No vember 1928, by A. C. Bell. Beginning in the center of a road and running N 13 'A E 12.20 poles to Fig. 2, a stake, thence N 68 3/4 W 4.72 poles to Fig. 3, a stake in a line of fence, thence in the center of the said road S 79 3/4 E 5.48 poles to Fig. 1 the place of beginning, containing sixty-five and seven tenths (65.7) poles, more or less, also known as:
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Marjorie Cruz
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
1. Pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 8.01-316, 8.01-321 and 58.1-3967, the PARTIES UNKNOWN shall appear before this Court on October 7, 2022 at 10:00 AM, and do what is necessary to protect their interest herein;
8/25, 9/1, 9/8 & 9/15/22
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Loudoun County Department of Family/v.Services
9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29
A message to Loudoun County Property Owners regarding the Land Use CommissionerRobertProgramAssessmentfromS.Wertz,Jr.oftheRevenue
PAGE 32 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LOUDOUN COUNTYCivil Action No. CL22-5089
The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-252 for Marjorie Cruz; and hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Marjorie Cruz.Itis
Real property owners who wish to apply for land use assessment for the first time must submit to my office an application along with the required fee by the filing deadline. Forms are available online, in my office, or can be mailed to you.
IT FURTHER APPEARING TO THE COURT that pursuant to Va. Code § 8.01-321, the party served by publication shall be required to appear and protect his interest by the date stated in the order of publication, which shall be not less than 24 days after entry of such order; it is therefore
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before September 12, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. (Adjudicatory) and October 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. (Dispositional)
Loudoun County Department of Family Unknown/v.ServicesFather
IT FURTHER APPEARING TO THE COURT that pursuant to Va. Code § 8.01-316 those who may have interest in the Property, named Parties Unknown, may be served by order of publication; and
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
IT FURTHER APPEARING TO THE COURT that there are or may be persons whose names are unknown that may have a potential ownership interest in the Property. They are identified in the pleadings as defendants by the general description of “PARTIES UNKNOWN”;
The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for child in need of services case, pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.4 for Diana Gissel Medina Lainez, Gabrielle Medina Lainez, Adrienna Medina Lainez & Karen Elizabeth Medina Lainez.
9/15, 9/22, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27
Legal Notices
1 Harrison Street, SE 1st Leesburg,FloorVA20175
IT FURTHER APPEARING TO THE COURT, that Plaintiff has exercised due diligence, to no avail, to ascertain the identity of the owner(s) of the Property and a location to serve said property owner(s) as party defendants;
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Diana Gissel Medina Lainez, Gabrielle Medina Lainez, Adrienna Medina Lainez & Karen Elizabeth Medina Lainez
Jose Medina, Putative Father
First-time Land Use applications and Renewal applications must be submitted to the Commissioner of the Revenue by Tuesday, November 1, 2022. Applications submitted after the deadline; November 2, 2022 through December 5, 2022, are subject to a $300 per parcel late filing fee in addition to with the standard filing fee. No first-time applications or renewal applications will be accepted after the December 6th deadline.
Overnight Deliveries
1 Harrison Street, SE, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20175-3102
COUNTY OF LOUDOUN, VIRGINIA, Plaintiff,v. PARTIESDefendants,UNKNOWN,
The object of the above-styled suit is to achieve the judicial sale of real estate located in Loudoun County, Virginia, for the purpose of collecting delinquent real estate taxes assessed against the subject real Property.ITAPPEARING that the subject real estate contains 13.22 acres, more or less, of unimproved land located in the Blue Ridge Election district, on “Poplar Ridge,” identified by Loudoun County PIN 688-45-3782-000 and Tax Map Number /68///4////UK/ (the “Property”), the owner of which is unknown. The Property is located in the southwest corner of the County, between Trappe Road and Blueridge Mountain Road bordered to the north by a parcel identified as PIN 693-208-837-000 with a current owner shown as Spurlock Family LLC, to the west by a parcel identified as PIN 693-196-566000, also with a current owner shown as Spurlock Family, LLC, to the south by a parcel identified as PIN 688-455-304-000 with a current owner shown as Victor E. Ferrall, Jr., and to the east by a parcel identified as PIN 688-379-524-000 with a current owner shown as Barbara Balfanz Allbritton.
Owners of real property currently enrolled in the land use assessment program must renew their land use status every 6th year by submitting a renewal form along with documentation corroborating the qualifying land use along with the required fee by the filing deadline. Renewal forms will be mailed the first week of September to those currently enrolled who are up for renewal. You may check your renewal year online at www.loudoun.gov/parceldatabase by entering the property’s address or parcel identification number and selecting the LAND USE STATUS tab. Properties renewed in 2017 are up for renewal this year.
An additional deferral of taxes is available to current program participants if they sign and record an agreement to keep the property in its qualifying use for more than 5 but not exceeding 20 years. The commitment must be filed with my office by November 1, 2022 and recorded in the Loudoun County Clerk of the Circuit Court´s office by December 15, 2022.
PO Box 8000 MSC 32 Leesburg VA 20177-9804
For submissions received or postmarked by November 1, 2022 $125 plus $1 per acre or portion thereof
Please visit our website or contact my office for information or filing assistance.
DEADLINES
It is ORDERED that the defendant Jose Medina, Putative Father appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his interests on or before September 28, 2022 at 3:00 p.m
Leesburg Office
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
9/1, 9/8, 9/15 & 9/22/22
3. Pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-601, the cost of the Order of Publication, if any, shall be paid initially by the Plaintiff subject to recovery of expenses.
Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, M - F Phone: 703-737-8557 Email: trcor@loudoun.gov
FILING FEES
21641 Ridgetop Circle, Ste 100 Sterling, VA 201669/8
Sterling Office
The Land Use Assessment Program provides for the deferral of real estate taxes on property that meets certain agricultural, horticultural, forestry, or open space use criteria.
Mailing Address
Case No.: JJ046150-02-00
Online: www.loudoun.gov/landuse
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
ADJUDGED, ORDERED AND DECREED that:
Case No.: JJ043081-03-00;JJ043080-03-00;JJ041604-05-00;JJ043082-03-00
For submissions received or postmarked between November 2, 2022 and December 5, 2022$125 plus $1 per acre or portion thereof plus a $300 per parcel late filing fee
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
2. Pursuant to Virginia Code § 8.01-321, this Order is to be published for two successive weeks in Loudoun Now; and
(2) Two Special Use Permit applications (“SUP 20-01” and “SUP 20-02”) for the following special uses: (a) one commuter parking lot with up to 260 parking spaces, and (b) 8 lighted public recreational fields;
Early Voting – All registered voters are now eligible to vote early in-person, no excuse required.
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(3) Two Commission Permit applications (“CP 20-01” and “CP 20-02”), for the purpose of assessing whether the proposed special uses, described above, are in substantial accord with the Town’s adopted Comprehensive Plan.
The subject property is shown in yellow on the map associated with this advertisement. This property is located north of Route 7, between Routes 690 and 611. The subject property includes parcel numbers 522-29-5928 and 522-29-6381, as well as dedicated Public Right-of-Way. The subject property affected by the proposed request cur rently has 2 soccer fields, with the remainder of the land being currently vacant. The subject property is adjacent to and south of Woodgrove High School, and abuts the west side of the Mayfair residential community. The property is proximate to the future interchange planned to be constructed at Route 690 and Route 7.
SBPL-2022-0004 Parkside Village
Saturday, November 5, 2022, at 5:00 pm is the last day upon which one may vote an absentee ballot in person for the upcoming election.
OWNER: LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
In-person early voting begins at the Office of Elections on Friday, September 23, 2022.
Email Your Comments: In addition, all persons have the option of sending an email to the Town Clerk, Diana Hays, at dhays@purcellvilleva.gov, with written comments or questions concerning the proposed project. Emails sent by 6:00 PM the day of the Public Hearing will be part of the written record for the public hearing, but may not necessarily be read aloud into the record at the public hearing.
Early voting starts – October 24, 2022 Mon, Wed, & Fri – 10 am – 5 pm & Tues & Thurs – 12 pm – 7 pm Saturdays, October 29 & November 5 – 9 am – 5 pm
Saturdays Hours ONLY, October 29 & November 5 – 9 am – 5 pm
The Planning Commission of the Town of Purcellville will conduct a public hearing on THURSDAY, SEPTEM BER 22, 2022, at 7:00 PM for the purpose of receiving comments on, considering, and possibly voting on the following applications:
9/8 & 9/15/22
At this public hearing, all persons desiring to present their views concerning this matter will be heard. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Town Council Chambers. If you require any type of reasonable accommo dation to participate in this meeting as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability, contact the Town Clerk at 540-751-2334; please provide notice of the accommodation at least three days in advance of the meeting.
EARLY VOTING NOVEMBER 8, 2022 – GENERAL & SPECIAL ELECTION
A full and complete copy of the proposed applications and all related documents are available for review on the town’s website at https://www.purcellvilleva.gov/1017/Fields-Farm-Park-Projects, and also in-person at the office of the Town Clerk, or at the office of the Planning Department, both located within the Purcellville Town Hall, 221 S. Nursery Avenue, Purcellville, Virginia from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. For questions, please call (540) 338-7421.
Saturday, October 29 and Saturday, November 5, Office will be open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
9/15/22
Loudoun County Government Office at Ridgetop – 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Sterling 20166
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Remote Participation Through “GoToMeeting” -- If you have already installed the GoToMeeting app and wish to comment during the hearing but cannot attend in person, please join the Public Hearing remotely by going to the following:
• Extended hours – Office remains open until 7:00 pm on the following dates Tuesday, October 25, Thursday, October 27, Tuesday, November 1, and Thursday, November 3
Important Dates for Leesburg Early Voting –
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Sunday, October 23 – Office will open from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Carver Senior Center – 200 E. Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville 20132
Additional information regarding this application may be found on the Loudoun Online Land Appli cations System www.loudoun.gov/LOLA and searching for SBPL-2022-0004. Complete copies of the above referenced application(s) are also available for public review at the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, Land Development File Room, 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Lees burg, Virginia, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Eric Blankenship at Eric.Blankenship@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to the Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by October 21, 2022. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above applica tion(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).
Early voting starts – October 24, 2022 Mon, Wed, & Fri – 10 am – 5 pm & Tues & Thurs – 12 pm – 7 pm Saturdays, October 29 & November 5 – 9 am – 5 pm
(1) One Rezoning application (“RZ 20-01”), which proposes to amend the zoning designation of the subject prop erty from “X - Transitional,” to “Institutional and Public Use District” (“IP”). The existing X-Transitional zoning district is the zoning district assigned by the Town to land when it is annexed into the Town’s corporate limits. The proposed “IP” zoning district is described by the Town Zoning Ordinance as follows: “[The “IP”] district is intended to permit the location and growth of public and private educational, institutional, public, and semi-public uses in areas appropriate for such uses. The district is intended to encourage the retention or adaptive reuse of larger public and institutional uses on sites identified for such uses in the adopted comprehensive plan.”
• Early voting starts on Friday, September 23, 2022
Legal Notices
You can also dial in using your phone: Access Code: 831-938-549 United States: +1 (571) 317-3112
Important Dates & Deadlines:
Office of Elections – Leesburg – 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C, Leesburg 20175
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://meet.goto.com/install
To find more information regarding the upcoming election, visit our website at www.loudoun.gov/voteearly.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 33
Dulles South Senior Center – 24950 Riding Center Drive, Chantilly 20152
Mr. Matthew Kroll and Mr. Stanley Settle of Timber Ridge at Parkside, LLC of Ashburn, VA are requesting a preliminary plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately eighty-seven (87.2) acres into two hundred forty-six (246) single-family residential lots and accompanying right-of-way and easements. The property is bounded by Fleetwood Road (Route 616) and Sleeping Woods Court (Route 616). The property is zoned Residential - Four (R-4), and Airport Impact Overlay District (AIOD), and Floodplain Overlay District (FOD) under the provisions of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance and is subject to the Proffer Statement associated with Zoning Map Amendment ZMAP-2020-0004 and the Conditions of Approval associated with Zoning Modifications ZMOD-2020-0008, ZMOD-2020-0009, and ZMOD-2020-0010. The properties are more particularly described as Parcel Identification Numbers 244-49-0257, 244-49-5748, 244-39-3372, 244-39-0937, 244-29-0197, and 244-28-8559 in the Blue Ridge Election District.
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://meet.goto.com/831938549
FIELDS FARM PARK
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TOWN OF PURCELLVILLE PLANNING COMMISSION
• Early voting hours – Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
APPLICATIONS FOR REZONING, SPECIAL USE PERMITS, & COMMISSION PERMITS PARCEL NUMBERS 522-29-5928 & 522-29-6381
Judith Brown, General Registrar / 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C, Leesburg, Virginia 20175 Email: vote@loudoun.gov / Telephone: 703-777-0380 / Fax: 703-777-0622
UPC: 118286
State Project: EN20-053-224, P101, R201, C501 UPC: 118286
HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and the Town of Middleburg’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Town of Middleburg; (b) the Town of Middleburg has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD, 820 First Street, N.E., Suite 450, Washington, DC 20002-4255, Attention: Mr. Michael D. Rose, Director, Community Planning and Development Division. Potential objectors should contact HUD at (202) 775-6266, to verify the actual last day of the objection period.
Find out about various planned improvements to the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail crossings spanning the length of the W&OD Trail within the unincorporated areas of the County and the Town of Purcellville, including crossings at: Ashburn Road, Hirst Road, Smith Switch Road, North Hatcher Avenue, Dry Mill Road near Route 9, Hamilton Station Road, Cochran Mill Road, and Ivandale
ImprovementsRoad.may
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
State Project: EN20-053-224, P101, R201, C501
For more information on this project, https://www.loudoun.gov/5746/WOD-At-Grade-visit: Crossing-Improvements
FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS
These540-687-5152notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be under taken by the Town of Middleburg.REQUEST
Improvements may include the realignment of trail crossings, the construction of median refuge islands, the installation of flashing warning signs, tree trimming and clearing, and the restriction of parking. Funding for this project includes local tax funding, cash proffers and federal grants.
W&OD Trail At-Grade Crossing Improvements Notice of Willingness
Danny Davis Town Manager
W&OD Trail At-Grade Crossing Improvements Notice of Willingness
Federal: TAP-5B01 (221)
Loudoun County: CRCP-2021-0010
If your concerns cannot be satisfied, Loudoun County is willing to hold a public hearing. You may request that a public hearing be held by sending a written request to Mr. Mark Hoffman, Project Man ager, Loudoun County, 101 Blue Seal Drive, Suite 102, Leesburg, VA 20177 or by email to dtci@loudoun.gov on or prior to September 21, 2022. Please reference “W&OD At- Grade Crossing Improvements” in the subject line.
The Town of Middleburg certifies to HUD that Danny Davis in his capacity as Town Manager consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Town of Middleburg to use Program funds.
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NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS
September 15, 2022
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Town Manager of the Town of Middleburg. All comments received by September 30, 2022, will be considered by the Town of Middleburg prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.
FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
Find out about various planned improvements to the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail crossings spanning the length of the W&OD Trail within the unincorporated areas of the County and the Town of Purcellville, including crossings at: Ashburn Road, Hirst Road, Smith Switch Road, North Hatcher Avenue, Dry Mill Road near Route 9, Hamilton Station Road, Cochran Mill Road, and Ivandale Road.
On or about October 3, 2022, the Town of Middleburg will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Community Planning and Development for the release of a grant under the Economic Development Initiative for the purposes of Community Project Funding/ Congressional Directed Spending funds under the Community Project Funding Awards of the Consol idated Appropriations Act, 2022 (P.L. 117-103), as amended, to undertake a project known as the Mid dleburg Town Hall for the purpose of construction of a combined Town Hall and Police Department facility, in the total estimated amount of $12,253,111 (inclusive of HUD and non-HUD funds).
Loudoun County ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you require an accommoda tion for any type of disability or need language assistance, please call 571-258- 3282 (TTY/TDD 711).
For more information on this project, visit: https://www.loudoun.gov/5746/WOD-At-GradePursuantCrossing-ImprovementswiththeNational Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 23 CFR 771, an environmental document in the form of a Programmatic Categorical Exclusion (PCE) was prepared as per an agreement between the Federal Highway Administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation. In compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 and 36 CFR Part 800, information concerning the potential effects of the proposed improvements on properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places will be available with the PCE. The PCE can be viewed on the project website.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
Loudoun County: CRCP-2021-0010
Pursuant with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 23 CFR 771, an environmental document in the form of a Programmatic Categorical Exclusion (PCE) was prepared as per an agree ment between the Federal Highway Administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation. In compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 and 36 CFR Part 800, informa tion concerning the potential effects of the proposed improvements on properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places will be available with the PCE. The PCE can be viewed on the project website.
9/15/22
Town of Middleburg P.O. Box Middleburg,187VA 20118
Federal: TAP-5B01 (221)
If your concerns cannot be satisfied, Loudoun County is willing to hold a public hearing. You may request that a public hearing be held by sending a written request to Mr. Mark Hoffman, Project Manager, Loudoun County, 101 Blue Seal Drive, Suite 102, Leesburg, VA 20177 or by email to dtci@loudoun.gov on or prior to September 21, 2022. Please reference “W&OD AtGrade Crossing Improvements” in the subject line.
The Town of Middleburg has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environ mental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the Town Office of the Town of Middleburg at 10 West Marshall Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 and may be examined or copied weekdays 8:30 A.M to 4:30 P.M or on the Town’s website at www.middleburgva.gov/townhallPUBLICCOMMENTS
Loudoun County ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you require an accommodation for any type of disability or need language assistance, please call 571-2583282 (TTY/TDD 711).
include the realignment of trail crossings, the construction of median refuge islands, the installation of flashing warning signs, tree trimming and clearing, and the restriction of parking. Funding for this project includes local tax funding, cash proffers and federal grants.
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Editor:
Yes, it creates uncertainty for businesses and developers. But it also puts taxpayers—or at least utility rate payers—at risk if water and sewer treatment plants are built to serve users who will never hook up. With Loudoun Water now working up plans to extend its lines west to the JLMA based on policies
At its origin, the JLMA concept was about cooperation. That is where this new round of talks should focus. If our town and county leaders can find agreement on the broad vision, the boundary line questions will find easy and consistent answers. n
15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176 PO Box 207 Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723
LETTERS to the Editor
Rebuild It
Students eat lunch in a cramped cafeteria, endure sweltering temperatures in classrooms, wait in excessive lines to use bathrooms that lack mirrors and inoperable toilets and sinks, and navigate overcrowded and unventilated stairwells and hallways that make daily maneuvering challenging and in the case of an emergency, gravely dangerous. The building is riddled with asbestos from the floor tiles to the glue securing chalkboards to walls. Considering these conditions, a safe renovation of Park View would take twice as long as a new build.
In response to this unstable political landscape, I invite, with neither hostility nor judgment, the leaders of the Loudoun Democrats and the Loudoun County Republican Committee to issue a joint statement as to the professionalism, security, safety, and integrity of our county’s election apparatus.
Jan Mercker, Reporter jmercker@loudounnow.com
This will help calm the waters such that we can vote and observe the final outcomes with confidence, barring any problems that arise and are announced through the system itself.—
Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC
People in high places and with significant influence have, without credible substantiation, called into question the integrity of the locally directed American election system beginning with the 2020 election.Thisis exceptionally unfortunate and
PAGE 36 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Tonya Harding, Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.com
Editor:
Back at the Table
in the county’s new comprehensive plan, the ultimate capacity requirements of the town’s utility system are unclear. Will town leaders want to invest in the plant expansions that would be required to serve the entire planned growth area? That hasn’t been made clear either.
So why rebuild? Park View was built on a smaller piece of property than
very serious, with democracy-ruining consequences, which can now easily find expression in the November elections right here in our own Loudoun County.
My husband and I are long-time Sterling Park residents. My husband is a Park View graduate, our oldest son graduated in 2022, and our youngest graduates from Park View in 2025. We’re familiar with the history and results of attempted renovations at the school. We’ve seen our tax money poured into state-of-the-art schools throughout the county. Other schools received building additions, cafeteria expansions, larger gymnasiums and auditoriums, music and arts wings, and additional classroom space, while renovations at Park View have meant reducing the two-story library to one-floor to create small classrooms; classrooms divided
Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com
Alexis Gustin, Reporter agustin@loudounnow.com
Election Integrity
ADVERTISING
EDITORIAL
Susan Styer, Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.com
Loudoun Now is mailed weekly to homes in Leesburg, western Loudoun and Ashburn, and distributed for pickup throughout the county. Online, Loudoun Now provides daily community news coverage to an audience of more than 100,000 unique monthly visitors.
It is important for the town and county to come to terms with how development will be managed in the entire 4,300acre Joint Land Management Area. It’s clear that the tenets that long formed the
— HeatherSterlingEarley,Park
The lack of clarity serves no one well.
Opinion
Those talks are critical and should not solely be focused on Microsoft’s data centers or their tax revenue potential.
foundations of the JLMA concept—that the town would gradually grow as new homes and businesses were developed in that zone—are no longer shared. Now, the land may or may not ultimately be incorporated into the town. And it may or may not be served by town utilities.
Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor - nstyer@loudounnow.com
Vicky Mashaw, Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.com
with paper-thin walls to convert them into two, storage closets converted to classrooms, and the school store converted into storage space.
most of the schools in the county and is extremely limited in its ability to expand. A multilevel structure is the only way to provide a school that accommodates the existing and anticipated growing number of students.
ChrisPurcellvilleStevenson,
Following the threat of an annexation trial, it appears Leesburg and Loudoun County leaders are headed back to the negotiation table on plans to incorporate the Compass Creek commercial center into the town limits.
And across the Greenway to the north, the county owns another 11.5 acres along the east bank of the river.
— Letter from Bill and Ari Hennessy, Goose Creek Gardens
“I just cannot support paying this amount of money for land that would not be developed,” she said.
After closing will come the work of preparing the land for use as a public park—first as a passive park, with landscaping, signage and fencing to support the existing trails, and a possible deceleration lane on Sycolin Road into the property.Inasecond phase of work, the county is looking toward a park master planning process, with an aim toward a kayak and canoe launch, improving the parking lot and other park features, as well as a possible eastbound turn lane onto Sycolin Road. County staff’s preliminary estimates for the total cost of those projects is about $1.95 million.
owners, Bill and Ari Hennessy, asked first for $12.5 million, then for $10 million. They offered the $8 million price tag on the condition they keep five acres and the existing buildings, which were formerly the site of the Goose Creek Gardens and Pavilion wedding venue.
“Arguably, this property is priceless, but in a world of budgets and bottom lines, we are forced to assess the intangible in dollars. We previously calculated a value of $12,400,000 but proposed a compromise of $10,000,000 for our entire property. We felt this was fair especially considering the long-term investment and enduring value this purchase will provide to the county and its citizens,” they wrote, adding they would consider $8 million if they kept the buildings and 5 acres.
When all that work actually begins will depend on the next annual update on the Capital Improvement Program, typically completed with the rest of the county budget in April, unless supervisors vote sooner to move the program up in the schedule. New capital projects typically go to the back of the line for funding, six years in the future. n
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 37
“I think this is a prime piece of property and this is—to me, this is a legacy project for the county,” he said.
“I wish we could spend less. But I don’t think that we could spend less and get it, especially when, if you remember not too long ago, there was a very controversial application on here, this same parcel, that included fairly dense residential,” he said.
Supervisors voted 7-2, Letourneau and Umstattd opposed, to authorize the
Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) agreed. She also pointed out the county is paying for land mostly in the floodplain, which is not developable and therefore possibly less valuable on the real estate market.
it’ll take over time to improve the park to where it’s publicly usable?’”
$8 million price, plus $135,000 to cover due diligence, estimated closing costs, surveys and subdividing the property to separate the five acres.
But the majority on the board agreed, if reluctantly, that it was worth the price.
“Arguably, this property is priceless, but in a world of budgets and bottom lines, we are forced to assess the intangible in dollars.”
“The actual market value of the land is what the seller’s willing to sell it for, and what the buyer’s willing to buy it for,” said Supervisor Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn), who took a leading role in the negotiations. “So the question, then, [is] ‘is having this piece of property worth the $8 million plus the roughly $2 million
He argued it is.
LAST LaborQUESTION:WEEK'SDaymarks the start of the sprint to Election Day. Where do you stand?
“This is really one of the first pieces we’re acquiring, and so we have now set a floor in terms of our cost expectation for every other negotiation we have along the way that is really, really high,” he said. “And so the acquisition cost of all those parcels to build this whole trail network just went Supervisorup.”
“Wethis.”are not going to get this for any cheaper. So it’s either we purchase it at this as a well-negotiated price, because it truly is a rare gem and value, or we just walk away from this, and I believe that the purchase of it is more valuable to the residents of Loudoun,” he said.
Linear Park
And County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said the purchase could also protect Goose Creek from future development.“There’smany ways to pay for something, and I think damaging the Goose, you’re going to pay a lot higher price at a later time than this,” she said.
Readers’ Poll
continued from page 1
Buffington pointed out that the land was part of the 46 acres in a controversial application to build 123 townhouses, 40 two-over-two stacked residential units, and a 75-unit apartment building. Supervisors first approved that plan in March 2021, then, facing public outcry, in a rare move two weeks later reversed their decision and voted it down.
If the county closes on the sale, it will assemble almost 42 contiguous acres along the banks of the river, including all of the riverbank between Sycolin Road and the Dulles Greenway. The county owns the 18.5-acre parcel to the north of the Hennessey property, and a 100-foot wide swath of land along the opposite bank of the river by the True North data center campus.
At the county board meeting Sept. 6, some supervisors balked at the price tag. Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said it’s too much to spend with the county expected to face its tightest budget in nearly a decade. And he also worried that the high price would drive up costs for the rest of the county’s Emerald Ribbons plans.
Supervisor Caleb E. Kershner (R-Catoctin) argued the county isn’t paying too much—“someone’s going to buy this eventually, and it’s going to be way more than
In a letter to Supervisor Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn), they pointed to the property’s riverfront, lagoon and other undeveloped areas and wildlife habitat. And wrote “this property is central in achieving a trail network connecting Beaver Dam Reservoir to the W&OD and onward to Algonkian Park on the Potomac; thus achieving significant progress for the county’s Linear Parks and Trails program.”
Her interest in flower farming stemmed from taking care of a few houseplants. That hobby gradually expanded. She began working at a local flower nursery in the summer of 2019 and then took an environmental plant science class at the Academies of Loudoun.
Chapple sells her flowers through a CSA, on her website, and right on her farm. You can come by during the farm’s open hours to pick your own flowers and enjoy a wine tasting. She also runs a gift shop at her farm that sells flower-related products. One of these products is her own patented armature—a gridded ma
continued from page 1
Father-daughter team Mike and Makena McLaughlin run Stonehedge Flower Farm, even while Makena is a freshman at Virginia Tech.
The event will feature live music, live floral demonstrations from their design ers, a selection of Autumnal wines and their homemade Jack Cat Hard Cider, walking tours of the farm, a scavenger hunt for kids, their friendly farm animals, and plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.Inthelasthour of the event on Sunday, you can help Hope Flower Farm clear the field by harvesting from their 2,000 dahlias.“It’s really amazing to see one of the most extraordinary flowers,” Chapple said. “Dahlias come in almost every color and all different shapes, sizes, and forms. So, this is a great way to expose people to the beauty of this particular flower.”
PAGE 38 LOUDOUNNOW.COM SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
continues on page 39
At a farmers market stall for Stone hedge Flower Farm, lush bouquets of dahlias and wildflowers are wrapped in a signature combination of black pa per and newspaper. Behind the booth is MikeOr,McLaughlin.ifyou’relucky, you may catch Stonehedge’s leading flower farmer on her fall break.
In 2015, Chapple and her husband bought Hope Flower Farm in Waterford. It was conveniently located just two miles from their home and offered ample space to grow flowers, run a bed and breakfast, host weddings, start a winery, and teach budding floral designers.
Her father and stepmother, Mike and Kristen, purchased a property near Hill sboro in late 2021 to start a business. Given Makena and Kristen’s mutual love of gardening, starting up a flower farm seemed to be the perfect fit.
“I’ve met countless other flower farm ers, and everyone is so nice at farmers markets. I love talking to customers be cause they’re always talking about their garden and their experiences. I think I’ve changed from just wanting to be behind the production of it all, and now I want to be the face of it. I want to talk to people about what we do, learn from other farm ers, and make connections.”
Contributed
The New Generation of Flower Farming
year. They say you’re supposed to plan a year ahead to start a business. But we thought we could do it, and I guess we sort of proved that right,” Makena Mc LaughlinMcLaughlinsaid. attributes their success to countless hours of online research on flower farming and the tried-and-true guidance of other flower farmers in the community.
“January [2022] is when I started planting the first seeds and, of course, some pre-planting in December of last
“We have a new farmer who’s helping us right now, and we have not used any chemicals this year which is really a big deal for us. Staying on top of the weeds and keeping everything really pure, we’ve managed to do that all year long and that is ourForintention.”thepasttwo years, she has also held flower festivals on her farm celebrat ing peonies in the spring and dahlias in the fall. This year’s Dahlia Days Festival will take place on Sept. 24-25.
Thursday-Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. The Dahlia Days Festival takes place on Sept. 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. For more information, go to hope flowerfarm.com/pages/dahlia-days-2022.
At 18 years old, Makena McLaughlin is already running a flower farm. She is a recent graduate from Loudoun Valley High School and is a freshman at Virginia Tech studying landscape architecture.
Sage Devlin is pursuing their vision for a sustainable flower farm and business at Far Bungalow Farm.
FLOWER POWER
“We grow thousands of tulips, bloom ing branches, anything and everything that I can grow here, short of roses [which she imports from a farmer in Bogota, Co lombia certified for sustainability]. I grow in mass so that I can supplement my de signs for my brides and grooms and now also for the guests that purchase from Hope Flower Farm.”
Flower power
Contributed
Dana Armstrong/Loudoun Now Hope Flower Farm worker Tera cuts flowers for an upcoming wedding floral arrangement.
Now that she’s at college, her role will be managing the website and social media and planning for the next year of growing.
She takes her inspiration from the garden for her floral designs and enjoys crafting romantic arrangements well-suit ed for weddings. Her wedding receptions are known for making centerpieces out of trees and transforming spaces into floral wonderlands dripping with colorful and textured floral installations.
Hope Flower Farm & Winery is lo cated at 40905 Stumptown Road near Waterford. Their current public hours are
bred out of it so they can get a consistent product,” Chapple said.
“When I was there, I was always the person who would go out every morn ing and harvest. I would wash buckets, I would weed, I would do everything— bouquet-making, market,” McLaughlin said.“Now, since I’m not there, my step mom Kristen is taking over a lot of the farm … and my dad is going to the mar kets. But I’m fully confident that they’ll be completely fine because they’ve helped me through the whole process.”
This is part of a recent shift to make her flower designing and farming practic es more sustainable.
chine used for flower arranging that is a sustainable replacement for floral foam.
Mayrant said during the summit that the signs of autism can be difficult to rec ognize, and autistic children can be diag nosed for conditions that may describe some of their behaviors but don’t get at the root cause. It can take a multi-disci plinary team and a set of specific tests to make an accurate diagnosis.
She said the Arc of Loudoun provid ed a one-stop shop for many of those re sources, a saving grace. And she said that early intervention has been key—with his rapidly-growing brain at his young age, there is a real opportunity to teach him the skills he needs.
One of the most shocking aspects of the job was learning how long fresh-cut farm flowers could last without using any chemicals during the growing process or sustaining the cut flowers with plant food.
the demand for local flowers.
Barbara Lamborne is a recently retired flower farmer and part of the mentorship program of ASCFG. Originally from Al exandria, she moved out to Lovettsville and then to Wheatland where she started Greenstone Fields flower farm 16 years ago.
Instead, Devlin designs their flower in stallations using recycled, Amazon pack aging that would otherwise be thrown away. They also design using exclusively local and seasonal flowers, which comple ments their “fieldy” and wild design style.
this point that floral foam is a microplas tic that does not biodegrade,” Devlin said.
continued from page 3
“I feel like it’s pretty well known at
“When I learned floristry, I learned pretty traditional floristry with the floral foam, imported flowers, chemicals, all that stuff. It just seemed very backward to me, especially when you need nature to do your profession,” Devlin said.
And the more natural and sustainable route is buying from local flower farmers.
Hearing from experts in the room like Mayrant was a poignant moment, she said.“That multidisciplinary team, if that had existed, if we had been able to find that back 2002—what might have been different?” she said. “I guess that’s kind of now a personal goal, to make sure that nobody else that we can help has that question of, ‘if only I knew.’”
Lamborne’s motto is: “grow more growers.” She’s succeeded with one of her farm’s former workers.
“Seasonality is probably the biggest factor for me in arranging. I feel like people are very stressed about color and things going together. That’s the big con cern of brides specifically. But when you are working with nature and seasonality, you don’t have to worry about that as much. Somehow the colors and shapes work out. It’s harmonious because it’s natural.”
“I do wish that at that time, I knew what I know now: that my child is that same child that got that diagnosis,” she said. “He’s the same child before and af ter. But what that diagnosis did was really open up resources for us.”
come across, and here’s who you want to talk to get on the waitlist, and here’s how you’re going to begin to advocate for your child.’”Haleema Tayub, the mother of a student at the Open Door Learning Center and client at the Aurora Behavior Clinic, said her own family’s journey with au tism began a little over a year ago when her two-and-a-half year old son was first diagnosed.“Itreally feels like a turning point in our lives. It felt like there was our life that we were leading up to that point, and now were on this different path of so many unknowns,” she said. “We had so many more questions than we had answers.”
Stonehedge Flower Farm is located at 36893 Highwater Road near Hills boro. They deliver, and offer pick-ups on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They also set up booths at Fruits in the Gap farmers market in Hillsboro and the Western Loudoun Farmers Market in Purcellville. For more information, go to stonehedgeflowers.com.
“I’m very passionate and pretty staunch about I don’t use floral foam. I try to stay away from single-use plastics at all costs. I do all vase rentals so we’re not just throwing away vases all the time.”
After attending college in New York for musical theater, Devlin worked in a flower shop in Portland, Oregon. It didn’t take long for Devlin to discover that the family’s interest in flowers passed on to them, and the floral industry was in des perate need of change.
Far Bungalow Farm is located at 42517 Farm Lane north of Leesburg. To become involved in its CSA flower share, purchase arrangements, look into whole sale opportunities, or learn more go to farbungalowfarm.com. n
Flower power
the Association of Spe cialty Cut Flower Growers (ASCFG), 80% of flowers purchased in the U.S. are imported from other countries. Since American florists could import flowers from South America at a cheaper price than domestic suppliers, many did. Thus, many American flower farmers gave up on wholesale to florists or didn’t bother to get into the industry.
“In the end, the fields will always be there—and there might be a few more weeds—but the fields will be there, and I can return to them when I’m ready.”
“When I started, I was one of two flow er farmers in Loudoun County along with Don Dramstad who does Don’s Dahlias. Now I don’t even know everybody. I’d say there are at least a dozen. And I think there were maybe three or four in the state backLamborne’sthen.” original intention with Greenstone Fields was to grow a berry farm. But poor soil conditions and a fortu itous grant from the Virginia Department of Agriculture encouraging 13 farmers, including her, to take on flower farming caused her to shift paths.
“The advice I always give to parents is, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask for help. Build your village,” she said.
Afterwards Kimball said in that way, she was reminded of her experience with her own son, who suffered a traumat ic brain injury at 14. It took years to get diagnoses, and those were mental health related—missing the underlying brain in jury. Her son was able to build a life for himself eventually, and today has a job, a marriage, and child of his own.
Early intervention
In 2019, Devlin moved to the family farm in Leesburg. While building up the garden on the farm and harvesting from their grandmother’s perennials, they worked part-time for Lamborne where they learned more about sustainable farm ing and floristry.
continued from page 38
Passing on the Torch of Sustainability
And those aren’t the only unsustain able practices in the floral industry.
Most of the flower bouquets available at grocery stores are shipped from thou sands of miles away. The flowers are tightly packaged in boxes for shipping. Therefore, the blooms are bred to not be as large or open and lose days of vase life in the shipping process. When they arrive at grocery stores, plant food is necessary to revitalize the flowers and extend what little life they have left.
flower garden and their paternal grand mother painted flowers.
She recalled the work to answer those questions—everything from how to find the right therapist and whether insurance will cover it, to where to find the right daycare, to how to be a parent to a child who learns differently.
thinks differently, he learns differently,” she said. “And my job as a mother is to love and accept him, but that also doesn’t change the fact that he needs extra sup port to learn things that other kids that are neurotypical are learning on their own.”
Devlin guesses their love of flowers is in their genes. Originally from New Jersey, they often visited their maternal grandparents’ farm in Leesburg. Their maternal grandmother grew an abundant
“The biggest thing was grieving, and then accepting that autism just means that my son’s brain is wired differently. He
She encouraged parents to get their children in line for testing early if they are showing any kind of development delay. And, she said, find a community and a support network.
All that changed when shipping and supply chain issues resulting from the pandemic and increased consumer inter est in sustainability suddenly increased
“The ASCFG has more than doubled in the past 10 years. It’s close to 3,000 now. I used to sit on the board, and we were really excited when we got to a thou sand [members in 2016],” Lamborne said.
Sage Devlin, 32, owns and operates Far Bungalow Farm in Leesburg. They are proud to be a queer, nonbinary flow er farmer that farms on the same land as their grandparents before them.
For more information about the Arc of Loudoun, go to thearcofloudoun.org. n
“It’s surprising how many florists still use [floral foam] and they know. And also, now with all these Instagram reels with demos and showing other people [how to design using floral foam]—it really grinds my gears. Because now you’re educating people on how to do this thing that’s so wasteful, and the consumer doesn’t know. It’s very disingenuous and dishonest.”
Stonehedge Flower Farm is just one example of the many new flower farms spanning Loudoun and the nation. Over the last decade, there has been an intense shift in the interest of growers and buyers for local Accordingflowers.to
SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 LOUDOUNNOW.COM PAGE 39
VERONICA ARAMBURU
REALTOR® | Licensed in VA & WV
rocky.westfall@gmail.com
ROCKYROCKSREALESTATE.COM
Middleburg, VA 20117
VIRGINIAHORSEANDHOME.COM
Veronica Aramburu is an experienced REALTOR® and Accredited Buyer Representative who regards every transaction as if it were her own and treats each client like family. She receives the greatest satisfaction from serving her community and watching clients, many who thought homeownership could not be accomplished, achieve their home ownership dreams. She believes in educating her clients, especially first-time homebuyers, about the benefits and responsibil ities of homeownership. Over the past five years, she has developed proven strategies to overcome unique home buyer challenges.
REALTOR® Licensed in VA & MD
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Eric has worked with a broad base of clients touching nearly every area of life. Having been raised within a family of REALTORS® and spanning a 30-year career in sales and marketing, he has proven to be both innovative and highly successful on the behalf of his clients.
Having lived in 3 different countries, he has consulted with many international clients from various parts of the world. Thanks to his depth of experience and regional knowledge, Eric offers advice on everything from long-term, strategic real estate investing to how to enjoy the area he also calls home.
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Rocky has a 35 year plus history of working in Real Estate and Home Lending. Both his lending and real estate experience have included primary homes, investment properties, second homes, raw land and country estates. His long career gives him a broad background to draw from to help his buyer and sellers meet their goals. Rocky has a simple, but powerful approach with clients- to offer help as soon as he can and suggest solutions and offer counsel after understanding what is important to them. He believes in open communication, transparency and action.
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ERIC M. DIELLO
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M 703.232.7265 O 540.687.6321 x 235 10 E Washington St PO
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