Loudoun Now for Nov. 17, 2022

Silver Line to Loudoun Opens

BY RENSS GREENE AND NORMAN K. STYER rgreene@loudounnow.com nstyer@loudounnow.com

Passengers on Metrorail’s long-awaited Silver Line to Ashburn rode the rails for the first time Tuesday.

The Nov. 15 grand opening brought out elected and government officials ranging from county supervisors to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. He pointed out the ribbon cutting coincided with the anniversaries of two other transportation milestones—it was one year to the day since President Joe Biden signed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, or Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and only two days shy of the 60th anniversary of Dulles Airport’s opening.

“When the airport was first opened, almost exactly 60 years ago today, President Kennedy said that the building symbolizes the aspirations of the United States. I think the same can be said of the Silver Line today, allowing people to affordably get to where they need to go, whether it is a baggage handler working at the airport or a federal employee commuting to the District of Columbia, or a software engineer working at the terrific tech employers who are here,” he said.

“In a region that’s moving like Northern Virginia, we need reliable transit and transportation to support families, small businesses, and continued economic success. That’s exactly what the Silver Line extension is going to do,” Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) said.

“We get to cut the ribbon, but who are we doing it for? We’re doing it for one reason and one reason only,” Loudoun County Chair Phyllis Randall (D-At Large) said. “Elected officials, community leaders, county employees all over the country, we’re here for one reason: we’re here to make a better quality of life for the people that we serve. This is a great day.”

‘A Whole New Game’

“It feels fantastic to see,” said former Ashburn District supervisor Ralph Buona, one of the county board members who voted to bring Metro to Loudoun in a 5-4 vote in 2012. “It’s been 10 years and four months since we took the vote. And it’s been a long haul ever since, but now

that you see it all together, you see the infrastructure, you see the excitement.”

Buona and other supervisors faced long criticism for that vote—criticism that was only renewed with each Silver Line delay and budget overrun. The first

Renss Greene/Loudoun

Schools’ Six-Year Construction Plan Tops $1.3B

BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com

Superintendent Scott Ziegler presented his recommended Fiscal Year 2024-2029 capital budget to the School Board on Tuesday night in front of a crowd of Ster ling Park residents who showed up to sup port one element of the plan—building a replacement Park View High School.

Several spoke during the public com ment section asking the board to support the superintendent’s recommendations. Others spoke up expressing frustration over other older schools, including Ban neker Elementary School in St. Louis, that are slated to be renovated instead of rebuilt.

The plan includes several construction projects, including three new elementary schools, renovating two older elementary schools, Banneker ($38.9 million) and Waterford ($20 million); a new middle school and $271 million Dulles North

high school; and the $221.7 million re construction of Park View High School.

In total, the construction plan seeks $1.3 billion in funding over the next six years. The biggest chunk comes in FY 2025 when $549 million would be required. That is the year the two

high school projects would be under construction.

At a meeting at Park View High School last week, school staff members presented a plan for a new school on areas of the 40-acre campus now used for the football stadium and bus parking. They

presented a new 295,000-square-foot school with room 1,800 students, compared to the school’s current capacity for 1,521 students.

The new school would be built while students continue to attend the old one. After students move to the new build ing, the old school would be torn down to make way for new football, baseball, softball and practice fields, also adding new bus parking and 42 parking spaces.

Chief Operations Officer Kevin Lewis at that meeting said the school would be expected to open fall 2027.

At the School Board meeting Tuesday, Lewis told the board several factors are considered in making decisions to reno vate or rebuild schools. One is capacity and making sure everyone has a seat. The next is the instructional environment, for which he said school staff members take a deep look into and ask whether the

SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION continues on page 39

Polifko, Ogedegbe Take School Board Seats

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

One week after special elections in the Broad Run and Leesburg districts, the School Board on Tuesday welcomed two new members.

Tiffany Polifko and Erica Ogedeg be took the oath of office Tuesday af ternoon and moments later participated in their first round of budget planning talks.

They were the winners of special elections Nov. 8 and will fill the re maining year on two unexpired terms. Ogedegbe was elected to represent the Leesburg District following the resig nation last year of Beth Barts. Polifko represents the Broad Run District fol lowing the death of Leslee King.

Their terms end Dec. 31, 2023.

Ogedegbe’s election victory over Michael A. Rivera was known on elec tion night.

Ploifko’s victory in a three-way race took longer to sort out.

At the end of ballot counting on Monday afternoon, she was declared the winner by 135 votes over Nick Gothard. She got 6,663 votes, Gothard got 6,528, and Andrew Hoyler, who was appoint ed to the seat following King’s death,

got 5,561 votes.

Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles) gave Po lifko and Ogedegbe a few minutes to introduce themselves at the start of the School Board meeting.

“I am privileged to be sitting here with the members of the school board to serve the community of the Broad Run

District, but not only Broad Run but the entire Loudoun County Public Schools. I have over 20 years’ experience in the field of special education, and I have been working to advocate for children and their families for the past two de cades and I look forward to continuing that advocacy here on the School Board

as your representative in the Broad Run District,” Polifko said.

Ogedegbe said it was an honor and privilege to be the new representative for Leesburg and for the whole county.

“I look forward to being able to sup port [LCPS] students, and teachers and work on communication with families and making sure we can provide great opportunities for all of our student to be in a safe and welcoming learning envi ronment,” she said.

Nick Gothard conceded the race late Monday afternoon.

“I am deeply humbled to have earned the trust and goodwill of thousands of voters in the Broad Run District,” Gothard said in a written statement. “I’m grateful for the tireless work and unwavering support of our team and supporters have put into this race. For everyone we fought for listened to and gave hope to: this is not the end. We built a broad pro-public education coa lition that proved voters want represen tatives who will fight for everyone. We may have come up short this year, but I know this community will continue to fight for our true values. I’ll always be right by their side.” n

Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now

School Board Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles) congratulates Tiffany Polifko (Broad Run) after she took the oath of office Tuesday.

Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now

A crowd of Sterling residents listen to a presentation on the school district's capital plans Tuesday, Nov. 15

ON THE Agenda Loudoun

Supervisors Pledge Help with Airport Noise

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com

County supervisors have promised a plan to help people affected by airport noise as part of their work to update the Airport Impact Overlay District designed to protect residents from that noise.

As flights in and out of Dulles Airport began to pick up again after slowing down dramatically during the pandemic, people living nearby were surprised at the noise from jets flying overhead. That is particularly true for people in parts of Brambleton. Changes to air traffic control

technology have planes flying new routes, taking them low over residents who aren’t used to seeing jets directly overhead.

Meanwhile, the proposed new Airport Impact Overlay District is based on a 2019 study of aircraft noise around the airport, both now and in the future with plans for more air traffic and a fifth, eastwest runway on the southern end of airport property. While the county doesn’t control flight paths, the overlay district in county zoning forbids residential development in the highest-noise areas of the county, and requires additional noise insulation in areas around that. The

revisions update projections made almost 30 years ago in 1993, which among other changes were based on a then-unbuilt runway that ended up built further west than planned.

Residents crying out for help with the noise in their homes have thronged the county’s meetings on the overlay district, including a Nov. 9 public hearing. Residents of Birchwood at Brambleton have also formed the Loudoun Aircraft Noise Mitigation Committee to push supervisors and the airport for action. In that

Transit Union Authorizes Loudoun Strike

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Just days before Loudoun expanded its bus service with the opening of Metro’s Silver Line into Ashburn, members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 working at Loudoun County Transit overwhelmingly authorized a strike, if necessary, in their ongoing battle with county contractor Keolis.

That includes more than 140 fixed route and commuter bus operators, mechanics, paratransit drivers, dispatchers and other transit workers, according to ATU Local 689. More than 96% voted to authorize the strike.

“At a time when transit authorities across the country are scrambling to address operator shortages with better wages and benefits, Keolis seems to be the only one in this region with its head in the sand,” ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson said. “Keolis underbid this contract and thought they were going to profit off of underpaying these workers forever. Our members aren’t going to let that happen. They thought they could stop us with illegal threats, retaliation, and other union-busting tactics, but they were wrong. Keolis needs to get serious. Half measures aren’t going to cut it.”

Loudoun’s transit workers have been in a protracted battle with Keolis North America, the winner of a $101 million, five-year contract to run Loudoun’s transit services in 2021. Workers have seen benefits like retirement and health insurance reduced, and have seen the company resist recognizing the union. In April, Loudoun County transit workers voted 95% to unionize once again.

Union leaders claims Keolis has de-

layed progress at the bargaining table and that the National Labor Relations Board has found merit to at least 47 unfair labor practice charges against Keolis. They also said the county transit system has staffing shortages because it is the lowest-paying transit agency in the region.

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 represents more than 15,000 members and retirees across the region. n

Board Approves Bluemont Speed Bumps

After a study found speeding problems on Snickersville Turnpike and Clayton Hall Road in the Village of Bluemont, county supervisors on Nov. 15 approved $95,000 in spending to slow traffic.

On Snickersville Turnpike, the county plans two “speed tables,” flattened, gentler speed bumps, near Railroad Street and the Bluemont Community Center entrance. On Clayton Hall road near the Snickersville Turnpike intersection, they plan new pavement markings.

Supervisors approved that spending unanimously.

Household Hazardous Waste Dropoff Nov. 19

The final Loudoun County Household Hazardous Waste collection event of 2022 is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Claude Moore Park in Sterling. Loudoun residents may bring household hazardous waste free of charge.

Typical waste includes fluorescent light bulbs, dry-cell batteries, oil-based paints and stains, bleach, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fertilizer, pool chemicals, fire extinguishers and hobby chemicals.

The limit per household is 15 gallons of liquid waste and 40 pounds of solid waste, container size not to exceed five gallons.

Not accepted will be waste like motor oil, car batteries, propane tanks, ammunition, explosives, electronics, and medical waste.

To find out if an item will be accepted, call the county’s Waste Management Division at 703-771-5500. More information is at loudoun.gov/hhw. n

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 Executive Board Recording Secretary Barry Wilson attends the Nov. 15 ribbon cutting ceremonies for Metro’s Silver Line extension into Loudoun County.

AIRPORT NOISE continues on page 7

Near-term Rt. 15 Work Heads Back to County Board

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com

The Board of Supervisors’ finance committee has endorsed a package of $14.9 million in near-term fixes to Rt. 15 north of Leesburg, signaling the chance for some improvement to the road’s congested and crash-prone conditions while people living in the area wait on larger road projects still years away.

In July, the county board approved conceptual plans for Rt. 15 including new roundabouts, widening it to four lanes and building a bypass around the Village of Lucketts. Preliminary estimates put the cost of those projects around $300 million, and unless the board decides to delay or cancel other major infrastructure projects for years, that work on Rt. 15 is likely six or seven years from beginning. At the same meeting, the board also directed county staff members to come up with options

for road improvements that could be done before then.

Supervisors heard options for that in October, sending them to committee for discussion. The committee is sending those options back to the full board for approval. Some of those are spending county money on state responsibilities such as trimming back vegetation, new pavement markings and signs, and guardrail markers. The county could also build roadside rumble strips, paved shoulders, and turn lanes at Vanish Farmwoods Brewery and Farmer John’s Market.

County staff members have also raised possibilities for more law enforcement, including installing speed cameras at Lucketts Elementary School—which would require supervisors passing a new ordinance to permit them—and building law enforcement pull-off areas alongside the road.

County staff members also ranked those improvements comparing their costs to their benefits, using a state for-

mula that estimates how many crashes they would prevent in the future and the costs of those crashes. Getting the state caught up on signs and pavement markings, at a cost of $1.1 million, ranked first, getting three times the return. Those were followed by paving shoulders on the southern part of the road, adding rumble strips, and building turn lanes at Black Hops Lane. Paved shoulders on the northern part of the road and turn lanes at Farmer John’s Market were slightly below break-even for cost-benefit.

And the pull-off areas for law enforcement are both the most expensive proposal and the one with the lowest cost-benefit ratio.

“Essentially, this is more of an enforcement area to enforce what’s out there, not necessarily directly related to motor vehicle safety other than to reduce speeds during the nonpeak hours,” Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure Acting Director Nancy Boyd said.

The state formula does not calculate a safety impact for trimming vegetation or new guardrail markers, and the county staff has not calculated the impact of speed cameras.

Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) balked at spending county money to supplement underfunded state responsibilities, pointing to the state’s half-billion-dollar budget surplus last year.

“I think that before we did that, we really should try to engage in high-level conversation with VDOT, and/or frankly some pressure from elected officials and others to get them to fund stuff that’s their responsibility,” he said. “I mean we’re talking about those three items are more than $3.5 million, and they are things that VDOT would do.”

The finance committee voted to send the list of improvements back to the full Board of Supervisors for discussion 3-0-2, with Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) and Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) absent. n

Leesburg

Town Council Picks Battlefield Interchange Design

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

The Leesburg Town Council is lining up behind an unusual interchange design to address a frequent traffic choke point on the Rt. 15 bypass.

On Tuesday, the council formally endorsed a Rt. 15/Battlefield Parkway interchange that will use two roundabouts and a bridge to keep traffic—and pedestrians—moving.

The decision follows a months-long public outreach effort during which three design options were evaluated. In addition to the double roundabout, the town looked at a traditional diamond design, and a divergent diamond, similar to the one in place at Rt. 15 and I-66. The double roundabout design scored the highest ranking.

The council’s endorsement vote is an early step in what is likely to be a

decade-long march to construction.

Next, the town staff will complete an Interchange Access Report, which is required to evaluate the interchange options and establish the project budget that will be used to secure funding in the years ahead.

The interchange has been in the town’s plans since 1980 as the Potomac Crossing and Exeter neighborhoods were under construction. Today, the intersection is an afternoon rush hour choke point as northbound Rt. 15 traffic backs up.

“The existing signalized at-grade intersection between Battlefield Parkway and the Route 15 Bypass is one of the higher accident locations in Leesburg, routinely experiences significant congestion, and acts as a barrier to pedestrians and bicycles crossing between residential neighborhoods,” according to the staff report on the project. “Since the mid-1980s, the Town Plan and various traffic studies have proposed that the intersection be re-

placed with a grade-separated interchange to improve traffic congestion and safety.”

Factors supporting the selection of the double roundabout design include that it meets the goals to reduce congestion and improve pedestrian safety; meets Town Plan goal to make Rt. 15 Bypass limited access; achieved the highest ranking alternative in public survey; acts as natural traffic calming; promotes a steadier traffic flow with no new traffic signals needed; provides separation to allow adding traffic signals at Fieldstone Drive and/or Balls Bluff Road if warranted in the future; and should reduce number and severity of vehicle crashes, according to the staff report.

During Monday’s council work session, members’ questions focused on finding the best way to pedestrians across Rt. 15, which will be on a bridge crossing in the proposed design. All members agreed the double roundabout design was the preferred option. n

Leesburg Hires Deputy for Emergency Management

The Town of Leesburg continues its focus on crisis planning with the appointment of a deputy emergency management coordinator.

Amy Cornell-Titcomb joins the town staff in that position two weeks after the town announced the hiring of Alex Fitch as emergency management coordinator.

Cornell-Titcomb most recently served as the emergency preparedness and all hazards manager for the Prince William County Service Authority. She previously worked for the Utah Transit Authority overseeing its muti-modal transit system that covered 1,600 square miles of operations. In 2021, she was named to the International Association of Emergency Managers Top 40 Under 40 list for her region.

In Leesburg, Cornell-Titcomb will work with Fitch and Town Manager Kaj Dentler, who serves as the town’s emergency management director.

20 Years of Frozen Gizzards

The Town of Leesburg’s Freeze Your Gizzard race celebrates its 20th anniversary Saturday.

Each year, the event draws hundreds of runners to Ida Lee Park for a 5K cross country race and onemile fun run.

Participants bring donations to help restock the Loudoun Hunger Relief food pantry as the nonprofit distributes special holiday meals to area residents in need.

All pre-registered 5K participants will receive a commemorative long sleeve performance T-shirt. One-mile fun runner will receive a commemorative finishers’ medal.

For details and registration, go to potomac.enmotive.com.

Free Holiday Parking

Starts Monday

Downtown public parking will be free starting next week and continuing through New Year’s Day.

Town of Leesburg

A rendering of the double roundabout design for the planned Battlefield Parkway/Leesburg Bypass interchange.

Council Eyes New Business Incentive Zones

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

Leesburg Director of Economic Development Russell Seymour is hoping to provide a few more tools in the town’s business recruitment effort.

On Monday, he briefed the Town Council on options to create new tourism and technology zones that could provide incentives for businesses to move or expand in targeted areas.

Technology Zones were authorized by the state in 1995. Tourism Zones were authorized in 2006. Both are intended to allow businesses to take advantage of state and local incentives not available to businesses elsewhere. Incentives can include waivers of business license fees, waivers of taxes on business property, utility fee

reductions, or expedited review of construction plans.

Seymour said that while the town is enjoying strong economic growth today, it is important to prepare for the future. “I want to keep the momentum going forward for us,” he told the council.

The town has two incentive zones. The HUB Zone is established by the federal government and provides qualifying small businesses with access to contracts. The Arts & Cultural District was established a decade ago, but only one incentive has been granted through that program, gaining a small BPOL tax break, Seymour said.

The Council on Tuesday authorized the staff to developed details of proposed technology and tourism zones and present them by February for consideration. n

Annexation Costs Top $500K

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

The Leesburg Town Council’s effort to annex the Compass Creek development, including the Microsoft data center campus, has cost $511,500 so far. On Tuesday night, the council allocated another $120,000 for the project.

After years of negotiations with the county government on a series of boundary line adjustments that would incorporate the property stalled, the council in September initiated an annexation petition through the Virginia Commission on Local Government.

The additional money is needed to cover the cost of the commission’s review and any subsequent court action,

according to the council’s funding resolution. The money will come from unallocated fund balance in the Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

Town Attorney Christopher Spera and other staff members on Monday night updated the council on the status the annexation effort during an hourlong, closed-door briefing.

Although town and county plans call for the area to be served by town utilities and, ultimately, be incorporated into the town limits, Microsoft has opposed a boundary adjustment, which is typically conducted as a cooperative, voluntary method of incorporation. An annexation through the Commission on Local Government is an adversarial approach, with the town effective suing the county to take control of the land. n

AROUND Town

Beginning on Monday, Nov. 21, onstreet metered parking spaces will be free. Parking in the Town Hall parking garage is already free because of on-going repair work that has limited the available spaces.

There will be a two-hour parking limit at on-street spaces on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular parking rates will resume Monday, Jan. 2, beginning at 8 a.m.

INMED Awarded Aquaponics Grant

The Virginia Outdoors Foundation has awarded INMED Partnerships for Children a grant to implement its aquaponics for food production.

Through its Get Outdoors Fund, the VOF supports projects that increase equitable access to safe open space in Virginia’s communities. The intent of the program is to serve as a flexible table tool for addressing communities’ needs, such as access to locally produced foods and clean and safe environments for recreation and work.

INMED is planning to introduce aquaponics, along with home and community

gardening, to strengthen food security among low-income residents of the Leesburg Mobile Home Park. Aquaponics combines aquaculture and hydroponics in a closed, symbiotic system that uses 90% less water and produces up to 10 times more in the same space as conventional agriculture, while eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.

The mobile home park is home to 130 low-income families that will be offered fresh produce, nutrition education, wellness workshops, fitness classes and other resources.

Village Kicks of Holidays with Tree Lighting

It will look a lot like Christmas on Saturday as the Village at Leesburg celebrates the holidays with a tree lighting, carriage rides, Santa, strolling carolers and more from 4 to 8 p.m.

Attractions include an interactive “Wish Tree,” billed as the only holiday tree of its kind on the East Coast. Wish donations will go to Loudoun Hunger Relief.

Merchants will offer specials and giveaways during the event. For a full list of activities, go to villageatleesburg.com/ holiday-events. n

Education

New Sexually Explicit Materials Policy Headed to School Board

BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com

A proposed policy requiring advance parental notification of the use of sexually explicit materials in Loudoun classrooms is one step closer to being approved by the School Board.

Proposed Policy 5055 involves instructional material that contains sexually explicit material, including novels assigned as part of a classes curriculum. The policy was mandated by the General Assembly earlier this year.

The School Board’s Curriculum and Instruction Committee reviewed the staff recommended changes to the draft policy on Wednesday Nov. 9 and voted unanimously to send it to the full board as soon as possible to allow them time to review it before its adoption by the Jan. 1 deadline.

This is the second draft of the policy. The first draft was presented Sept. 23.

Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Neil Slevin and Assistant Superintendent Ashley Ellis outlined what changes have been made to the policy after getting feedback from the public and different committees in the two months since it was last in front of the Curriculum and Instruction Committee.

They presented a slide show that outlined the changes made to the policy with Ellis pointing out it was unusual to have a new presentation on a policy already being discussed.

“Given the nature of the policy and some of the changes that have been made and just in full transparency to you and

the public, we would like to walk through them in a little bit more detail than you’d probably expect,” Ellis said.

Slevin said the policy mainly affects high schools, along with a number of titles used in middle schools.

“We have made it very clear that the intention of this policy is for identifying

School Board Outlines Priorities to State Lawmakers

BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com

The county School Board on Thursday Nov. 10 presented its legislative priorities to members of Loudoun’s General Assembly delegation at their annual breakfast meeting.

Among the top policy priorities are funding to address student mental health needs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the continuation of free school meals, and the prompt reporting of student or school employee arrests.

On the latter, the division wants notification within 24 hours or the next business day.

“What we are requesting is mandatory notification, verifiable communication via email and certified mail of any reports of an arrest of a student or employee … that will enable us to rapidly respond to any

needs that may occur coming out of such an arrest and to take the appropriate actions immediately,” Board Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles) said.

The School Board is also asking to remove the support cap, a restriction put in place during the recession, that “disproportionately limits local capacity to serve students with special needs,” according to a pamphlet outlining the school division’s 2023 legislative program. It also is seeking increased commitments to the teaching profession, including adding more incentives for potential teacher candidates to enter the profession, including waivers for college tuition and room and board and expanding funding for teacher mentorship programs. Additionally, the board is hoping to send the message that teachers and staff need to be paid competitively. It supports the continued use of the regional Cost of Competing Adjustment rather than basing state contributions to

teachers pay on average salaries across Virginia.

The School Board also supports overhauling the state public education funding model, continued funding for affordable universal access to high-speed broadband, dual enrollment opportunities, supporting a balanced assessment model to measure student learning as well as training for school divisions staff on how to interpret and use student data.

Assistant Superintendent Ashley Ellis said, while the school division supports Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s urging to raise SOL scores by the next test administration in May, administrators also know support is needed to continue to raise the bar.

Other state policy positions supported by the division include ensuring school resource officers have consistent standards, changes to Virginia law that allow students with disabilities to get the same

instructional materials that teachers intend to use or they intend to assign,” Slevin said.

Changes made to the policy include clearly stating the purpose as being to “provide for advance notification of the intended use of any instructional materials with sexually explicit content” in students education and does not include the selection of those materials. It also provides procedures for identifying all instructional materials with sexually explicit content assigned in classroom instruction and outlines procedures to notify parents, allow them to review the material and give them the option to choose something else for their student.

Slevin said a regulation has been drafted for how schools are going to handle the implementation of the policy.

“I want to be clear, this is going to put a lot of work on schools,” he said.

Slevin said other changes based on feedback included the removal of the reference to homosexuality within the sexual conduct definition. The policy states the purpose is not to censor books or designate them sexually explicit material based

BOARD PRIORITIES

Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now

Ian Serotkin (Blue Ridge) and Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian) listen to a presentation about a new policy requiring advance notification to parents about sexually explicit material used in classrooms on Nov. 9. EXPLICIT

Advanced Studies Diploma as students who can take physical education classes, allowing the School Board to keep

Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now School Board Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles) addresses lawmakers, fellow board members and students at the boards annual legislative breakfast on Nov. 10.

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Obituaries

Rose Marie Rawls, 67 of Winchester, Virginia passed on Sunday, October 16, 2022.

Rose is survived by her brothers, Pete Huffman Jr. (Janet), Joe Huffman, and Ed die Huffman (Peggy), sisters, Virginia Tol son and Thelma Minnick, Nieces, Virginia Payne (James) and Valeria Cooper (Tracy Longerbeam), several nieces, nephews, great Nieces, great Nephews, great great nieces, and great great nephews.  She was predeceased by her husband, Gene, brother, Jack Huffman, sister, Anna Armstrong, and brother-in-law, Frankie Tolson. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday, November 18, 2022, at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, Virginia. A Funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM. Interment will be in Sterling Cemetery, Sterling, VA.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

Glenn Amos, age 70, passed away on November 6, 2022. Glenn is survived by his wife Alice of 31 years, his daughters Rachael Johnson and Helen Moniz, sonsin-law Mike and Tony, and grandchildren Loralei, Michael, and Kathleen.  He will be cremated in accordance with his wishes and there will be a celebration of his life in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to the March of Dimes (www.marchofdimes.org/donate) or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www. stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude]www. stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude).

Cecilia Agnes Fallon (nee Herr mann), 85, of Ashburn, VA, passed away on Thursday, November 10, 2022. Cecilia was predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Patrick F. Fallon, Sr. in 2014, and her parents, August J. Herrmann and Mary Ganley Herrmann; as well as her siblings, sisters Anna, Mary, Regina, Eve lyn, Marguerite, and brother John.  Cecilia is survived by her three sons, Stephen (Jill) of Medford, NJ, Patrick, Jr. (Nancy) of Potomac Falls, VA, and Kevin of Salisbury, MD, and five grandchildren, Conor, Del aney, Kaitlyn, William, and Kevin, Jr. Relatives and friends are invited to visit from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at Colonial Funeral Home, 201 Edwards Ferry Road, NE, Leesburg, VA, 20176.  The Funer al Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am, on Friday, November 18 at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 21370 St. Theresa Lane, Ashburn, VA, 20147. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cecilia’s mem ory to St. Theresa Catholic Church Ashby Ponds Bus Service.  Private interment.

Gene Shirley Richey, 94, of Ber ryville, Virginia passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2022.Surviving are daughters Carol Byrnes (and Ray) of Leesburg, VA, and J. Kimberly Winn (and Sheila) of Minneapolis, son Stephen Anderson of Knoxville, Iowa, grandchildren Thomas Byrnes, Benjamin Byrnes (and Beth) and Suzanne Ward (and Harry) and great-grandson Jack Stensland. Private services will be held by her family.

Lives are like

LoudounNow

To place an obituary, contact Susan Styer at 703-770-9723

or email: sstyer@loudounnow.com

Board priorities

continued from page 12

any unspent money from its operating budget from one fiscal year to the next, pre-kindergarten for all, developing a formal process to fund important programs mandated by the legislature, funding for a pilot to provide hazing education, creating a regional governing board to oversee policy and administration of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, addressing the teacher and substitute shortage and state funding for electric buses and related infrastructure throughout the state.

Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian) told the story of Potomac Falls High School graduate Adam Oakes, who died in 2021 after a hazing incident at Virginia Commonwealth University. The Love Like Adam Foundation has been partnering with the division to bring education and awareness to hazing at the secondary level. Reaser said the division supports funding for a formal pilot program to teach education around hazing across the commonwealth.

Federal policies supported by the board include changes to Title IX that strengthen and restore protections against sexual harassment, sexual violence and sexbased discrimination, lift restrictions of the E-rate program—a program that provides discounts for telecommunications, internet access and internal connections to eligible schools and libraries. The School board supports policy change to remove or amend limitations on the program that restricts school divisions’ ability to expand their Wi-Fi footprint or deploy hotspots, and an expansion of Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs in county high schools.

Superintendent Scott Ziegler thanked attendees and said Loudoun County Public Schools is fortunate to have such access to the elected officials.

“I can get in a meeting, a phone call, a face to face with everyone from federal senators to Jennifer Wexton to our local representatives and our state delegates and state senators. Because of that, a lot of our legislative initiatives get through at the state level,” Ziegler said. He said having that kind of access benefits the students.

State Sen. Jennifer Boysko (D-33) shared what the broadband advisory council had been doing to expand access to broadband, including making major investments over the past several years in expanding access and affordability.

“Just to give you an example of how much we’ve invested in Virginia, in 2016 we had $1 million to spend for the entire commonwealth,” Boysko said. “As of now, with the leveraging of our fed-

eral dollars thanks to our legislators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner as well as the resources we’ve put in from the state and private funds we have invested $2.4 billion dollars.”

Boysko also said she would continue to work with the LGBTQ community and continue to watch what is going on with policies around transgender students, as well as keeping an eye on the social studies curriculum to make sure the history of all types of people are being told.

“When we tell the whole story, we are better able to understand one another and treat each other with kindness and respect,” Boysko said.

Del. David Reid (D-32) noted that he is the only member of the Loudoun delegation on a Appropriations Committee and said he takes the responsibility to heart. He said last year he submitted $6 billion in budget amendments, most of which was education related.

He addressed the teacher shortage across the state and said he has legislation that would create a mentor program he’s hoping Republicans will be interested in.

He also urged the board to continue to encourage students to look at other paths that don’t involve a four-year college degree.

“We have nursing programs, machinist programs and welding programs … we have to be sure we are encouraging children to have different paths to success which you can now actually be successful and live in places like Loudoun County if you are choosing not to go to college,” he said.

The breakfast was held at the Academies of Loudoun’s Culinary Arts department and prepared by students in the program.

School Board members in attendance included Chair Jeff Morse (Dulles), Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian), Ian Serotkin (Blue Ridge), Harris Mahedavi (Ashburn), and Tom Marshall (Leesburg). Newly elected School Board member Erika Ogedegbe, who took Marshall’s seat, also attended.

Also in attendance were Del. Irene Shin (D-86) and representatives from the offices of delegates. Suhas Subramanyam (D-87), Wendy Gooditis (D-10) and Karrie Delaney (D-67), U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Mark Warner (DVA), and Wexton’s office. And student school board members from high schools across the county and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology took part. n

rivers:

Eventually they go where they must, not where we want them to.

Explicit policy

on the sexual orientation or gender identify of characters within the books.

Slevin said they wanted to make it clear that the Virginia Department of Education provided the definition for sexually explicit instruction materials within the Virginia code and that it wasn’t developed by the school division.

“The state or Loudoun County Public Schools does not include standards or endorse any instructional materials that call for instructional resources that include any of the words included in the definitions. So, we aren’t certain why it was included in the definition, but we just want to make very clear that these are not endorsed by any curriculum standards in Virginia or in Loudoun County Public Schools,” Slevin said.

The policy encourages parents to engage with their students when it comes to independent reading and research materials but leaves that in the hands of students and parents. However, if a teacher recommended book for independent reading has sexually explicit material parents must be notified, according to the policy.

“This policy is really about notification. It’s not about the selection of resources so it’s about providing advanced parental notification of the intended use of any instructional material with sexually explicit content in your child’s education,” Slevin said.

The school district’s current practice allows for parents to ask for alternative materials if they are not comfortable with the instructional material. Current practice also includes posting all core, anchor and supplementary texts on the division’s website where families can review the reading material available to students, according to Slevin.

Ellis said Policy 5045, which sets procedures for the selection, review and challenge of educational materials, will be reviewed in the spring.

They also talked about the process teachers are using to identify resources that fall into the definition of sexually explicit material outlined in the model policies developed by the VDOE. Slevin said there was no recommended tool or any more clarification beyond the definitions from the VDOE to help in identifying materials, so the division is using things like Common Sense Media and teacher knowledge to identify materials that may need further review. The definitions included in the draft policy are being applied broadly,

according to Slevin, “because we’d rather have more information available to our families than less.” He said so far, through what they are calling “crowd sourcing,” they have reviewed 200 high school books and 250 middle school books. He noted the tight turnaround to develop and adopt the policy left little time to train the staff.

“While we are doing our best to stay ahead of this and work with our teachers, it is something that is an additional stress this time of year,” he said. He also noted that teachers who want to use materials that fall into this category in January need

to notify families by Dec. 1.

In addition to reading materials, Slevin said the policy covers art, fine arts and social studies (artifacts, drawings, and writings depicting mythological figures) and theater productions.

During discussion of the policy, Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian) proposed an amendment to increase the number of days parents have to let teachers know alternative material is needed from two instructional days to five. The motion passed unanimously.

Reaser also proposed sending the policy to the full board as soon as possible

to give members extra time to dive into the policy while keeping it on track to be adopted by Jan. 1. It passed unanimously.

The 2022 Model Policies were created after the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 656 in April to require the VDOE to create model polices that notify parents about instructional materials with sexually explicit content. Policy 5055 was created to bring the school division into compliance with the law. School divisions across the commonwealth are required to adopt the polices by Jan. 1.

It will go before the full board on Nov. 15. n

Work In Loudoun

To Live In Loudoun

HOMES

Loudoun teacher is $68,500 per year.

More housing options for Loudoun’s workforce is essential to the future of Loudoun. Workforce Housing isn’t an issue of charity. It’s about investing in Loudoun assets.

Let’s shape Loudoun’s future. Won’t you join us?

WORKFORCEHOUSINGNOW.ORG

Workforce Housing Now is an initiative of the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties.

Inova Loudoun Hosts 70 Job for a Day Students

BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.com

Over 70 high school students shadowed doctors, nurses and a host of other hospital professionals at Inova Loudoun on Thursday as part of the Loudoun School-Business Partnership’s Job for Day program.

The partnership has teamed up with Inova Loudoun Hospital for over 20 years to give juniors and seniors in all Loudoun County High Schools a chance to experience a career of their choice through job shadowing.

At the hospital, this year’s students chose from a variety of departments including heart and vascular services, labor and delivery, Children’s ER, physical medicine and rehab, medical/surgical, wound care, trauma services, public relations, materials department among others.

Catie Collins, a junior at Lightridge High School, shadowed the materials department, learning the supply chain and logistics of how supplies get distributed throughout the hospital.

She said she’s been looking at different colleges and really liked the supply chain and marketing management side of things. When she signed up for Job for a Day, she was excited to see there was a job she could shadow in a field she was interested in.

Collins said it was a fun experience.

“We’ve been packing stuff and they put it on these giant carts and we go all through the hospital and I have no idea where we are ever, but we always end up in a different room and put things on shelves,” she said.

She liked seeing the behind the scenes life at the hospital and said she recommended students take advantage of Job for a Day next year because it’s been a really “cool experience.”

Niejeen Abdul, a junior at Heritage High School, shadowed a nurse in the trauma unit. She said she didn’t know before how often doctors and nurses come together to collaborate on a patient’s treatment.

“There was a lot of problem solving that I didn’t think would happen. I thought everything was known or there was a special order but you come across these obstacles that you didn’t know were going to be there and you have to work around them, as a team too, not just one person … there’s a lot of team work and collaboration,” Abdul said.

She said she isn’t sure what she wants to do and is open to everything, but likes

the idea of a job that pays it forward and leaves an impact on others and thinks something in the medical field would be a good fit.

“It really gave a nice outlook of what the medical field is going to be like because we don’t get these opportunities every day. You can watch YouTube and 20 different shows but once you are in there in person and you get to see and hear everything, it’s a totally different thing,” she said.

Soumya Kosoor, a junior at Stone Bridge, had a personal experience on the patient side of oncology and wanted to see what it was like from the medical side. She shadowed oncology and surgery staff members for the day.

She said she got to do a lot of hands-on work, like charting and helping with patients. She said it was a “really cool point of view shift” to be on the medical side after being a patient.

“Before I would see things from a patient’s point of view and now I’m able to look at it like wow this is what the nurses and doctors are actually doing behind the scenes,” Kosoor said.

She said she also wants to pursue a job in the medical field and become a pediatric oncology nurse.

Abdul said she wished it was more than a one day program because she wants to see other departments.

Sukruthi Marmamula, a junior at RockRidge High School, shadowed Shondra Jones, clinical coordinator for cath and EP.

Marmamula jumped at the chance to shadow in the Inova Heart and Vascular Institute because she said she wanted to learn more about it.

As part of her experience, Marmamula was able to watch several procedures and learn about the advances in cardiovascular treatment.

She liked having the chance to ask questions of people who work in the field every day.

It was the 20th year that Inova has joined Loudoun’s Job for a Day program.

“As recent history with the global pandemic has taught us, health and medical sciences are a vital career path which our nation and world both depend upon. To have eager, bright, and talented LCPS students shadow medical professionals both boost our ‘Loudoun grown’ workforce, but also helps students who may find out by participating in this experience that another path would be better for them,” stated Grant Schafer, the school division’s supervisor of community connection in the department of instruction. n

Colburn Undergoing New Mental Health Evaluation

The man charged with murder in the July 2021 stabbing death of Natalie Crow at their Round Hill-area home has returned to custody in Loudoun County and is undergoing a new round of mental health evaluation.

He is charged with second-degree murder, stabbing in the commission of a felony, and concealment of a dead body.

Stone Lee Colburn, 25, had been undergoing psychiatric evaluation at Central State Hospital in Petersburg since his arrest last year. Last month, after county prosecutors feared he would be ruled unfit to stand trial they filed a new charge to provide time for a continued evaluation. However, on the day the charges were shuffled—charges were dropped in District Court and a new charge filed in Circuit Court—Colburn was released from the county jail. He was located the next day traveling with his family on I-95 near Savannah, GA.

He remained in custody there until Nov. 1, when he was extradited to Loudoun County. During Nov. 3 hearing, Judge James E. Plowman authorized a competency evaluation to be conducted by the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health. Colburn is being held without bond.

A status report is due Jan. 5.

safety or the safety of others.

All reports through the app are monitored 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week by dispatchers in the Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center.

Learn more about the app at sheriff.loudoun.gov/safe2talk.

3 Middle School Students Charged with Sexual Assault

Three juveniles face charges of aggravated sexual battery following a Leesburg Police investigation of an assault reported at Smart’s Mill Middle School.

According to the department, the investigation started late last month after a report that a juvenile student may have been assaulted. The investigation revealed that the victim had been assaulted by the suspects at the school during the current school year. No injuries were reported by the victim.

The juveniles were remanded to the Loudoun County Juvenile Detention Center on detention orders. The cases will be adjudicated in the Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. n

Leesburg

Police

Investigate Threat at Heritage High

The Leesburg Police Department has stepped up patrols at Heritage High School after learning of a rumored threat reported through the Safe2Talk App.

The LPD school resource officer assigned to Heritage High School is investigating the matter, which the department said they do not believe to be credible threat.

Parents can expect extra police patrols at the school during school hours this week.

Safe2Talk is a free app that allows users to choose the school where the issue is occurring and the type of incident. The user is provided options through dropdown menus for incidents such as alcohol and drug use, dating violence, weapons, sexual misconduct, graffiti, hate crimes, physical abuse, suicidal behaviors, or any other actions that threaten a student’s

Nonprofit

HeroHomes Building Fifth House

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Nonprofit HeroHomes is nearing completion on its fifth house, a country home near Round Hill for Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Jimmy Ochan.

Born in Uganda, Ochan came to the U.S. after high school and began college in Washington, DC. After two years of college, he enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps. He was deployed twice to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and once to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. During patrol he was hit by an improvised explosive device, resulting in several surgeries to his neck, spine and knees at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital.

He was honorably and medically retired from the United States Marine Corps after 11 years and 7 months of service in 2015. His fight continues, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and lingering migraines, and is still getting treatment through the Veterans Administration and equine therapy at Morven Park.

After he was discharged from the hospital, he was awarded Colorado Technical University’s full Patriot Scholarship to finish his degree, and in 2019 graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Emergency Management. He lives in Arlington with his wife of 11 years, Pat, and their 10 year old son William. Pat Ochan put aside her career

to help her husband recover, helped create the first caregiver group in Fort Belvoir, was a fellow with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, and now sits on the Advisory Board for Blue Star Families. She is also a two-time Patriot Scholarship recipient.

The nonprofit HeroHomes foundation works with other veteran support organizations to find deserving and injured veterans and get them into homes, ranging from fully-donated, to subsidized, to purchased. They completed their first house in 2017 in Purcellville, for an Army

veteran who had lost a leg above the knee after a live-fire artillery training incident in 2002. Ochan’s future home is the organization’s fifth.

On Thursday, Nov. 10, he toured the house under construction with almost all donated materials and work. He was guided by HeroHomes co-founder Jason Brownell and board member Kelly Weist.

“You can say thank you, but words are not enough,” Ochan said, promising to invite Brownell and others to the cookouts on his new deck. n

Empty Bowls Raises $48K for Hunger, Shelter

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

The 2022 Loudoun Empty Bowls event on Sept. 15 raised $48,000 to support Loudoun Hunger Relief, LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services and the Dulles South Food Pantry, the nonprofits announced Friday.

It was the annual event’s ninth year, bringing artists who donate one-of-a-kind handmade bowls and people who care about eliminating hunger and injustice in Loudoun, at Stone Tower Winery. This year’s event sold out in hours.

Each of the three organizations received a portion of the event proceeds.

back

Volunteers, Sponsors Needed for Red Kettle Campaign

The Salvation Army of Loudoun will hold its annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign starting Nov. 25 and is looking for volunteers and sponsors to help.

This year’s campaign comes as the organization continues to wrestle with the increased need for services following the pandemic and in the wake of rising inflation. The Salvation Army provides help with rent, utility bills, and emergency food assistance, among other support services.

Red Kettle volunteers will greet shoppers at Giant, Safeway, and Walmart stores across Loudoun through Dec. 24. In addition to seeking volunteers to ring bells at the collection stations, organizers are offering sponsorships to businesses for promotional exposure at the kettles.

To sign up to volunteer or to sponsor a kettle, contact call Bonnie Inman at 703-771-3371.

DryHomes ‘Free Roof for the Holidays’ Nominations Open

Sterling-based DryHomes Roofing and Siding is accepting nominations for the 20th annual “Free Roof for the Holidays” program, providing a new roof for a Northern Virginia individual, family or nonprofit in need.

Nominations close on Nov. 30. Winners will be announced in early December.

“LAWS is so grateful to again receive support for food purchases for those in our domestic violence shelter throughout the year,” LAWS CEO Debra Gilmore said.

“We extend our gratitude to each artist who contributed a bowl, truly pieces of art, to this effort,” Loudoun Hunger Relief President and CEO Jennifer Montgomery said. “Kaarin Nelson’s painting for the raffle was, as always, an event highlight. We are grateful to the event sponsors. And we thank every donor who made this event a

EMPTY BOWLS continues on page 19

Since the program began, DryHome has donated more than 20 roofs worth more than $200,000. Last year, Ashburn’s Chris Moorhouse and his family received a free roof to replace their home’s 25-year-old original roof. Moorhouse, who has struggled with cancer, was nominated by his wife. To make a nomination, go to dryhome. com or email info@dryhome.com. Nominators should include their name and phone number as well as the nominee’s name, address, phone number and reason they are being nominated. n

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Jimmy Ochan on Thursday, Nov. 10 takes in the view from the second-story deck on the house nonprofit HeroHomes is building near Round Hill, and which will soon be home to him and his wife and son.

Contributed

Donated bowls on display at Loudoun Empty Bowls at Stone Tower Winery on Sept. 15, which this year raised $48,000 to support Loudoun Hunger Relief, LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services and the Dulles South Food Pantry.

Volunteers Build Bee-Friendly Beds at JK Community Farm

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Volunteers from the data center industry spent Thursday morning building 25 raised beds at JK Community Farm to let the farm donate another 1,000 meals a year and help out pollinators.

More than 115 volunteers from the data center world labored to build the beds, which will be planted with bee-friendly, chemical-free annuals and perennials, adding to the produce and meat grown at the nonprofit farm and donated to hunger nonprofits like Loudoun Hunger Relief, Food for Others, Arlington Food Assistance Center, and DC Central Kitchen.

JK Community Farm launched in 2018 with the support of JK Moving Services, and today claim to be the nation’s largest community farm, donating everything they grow. In 2022, the farm forecast producing more than 230,000 pounds of healthy food. And they predict growing the bee population can help JK Community Farm increase its food donation yields by more than 20,000 pounds a year.

Volunteers came from Tate, QTS,

Empty bowls

continued from page 18

wonderful success. LHR continues to see high need for food in our community, and these funds make a difference in the work we do every day.”

“Dulles South is also seeing an increase in those needing food,” Dulles South Food Pantry Executive Director Meg Phillips said. “We are so grateful to our friends at Loudoun Empty Bowls for their contribution.”

The Empty Bowls team of Jenny Wolfer, Magen Morse, Amy Berringer, Kaarin Nelson, Kristen Swanson, Christine Kalchthaler, and Christi Palacios put together the event. Bowl makers included Maureen Alvarez, Amy Berringer, Dasha Berringer, Karen Burkardsmaier, Bruce Bucklin, Richard Busch, Laura Hennessey, Christine Kalchthaler, Meredith Kopp, Sheila Kryston, Maggie Labillois, Bryan Mattraw, Magen Morse, Alice Mullen, Kaarin Nelson, Joanne Rodgers, Carolee Stearns, Cara Stearns, Lori Stearns, Kristen Swanson, Jenny Wolfer, and members of the Relief Society, an all-women’s organization within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Learn more about Loudoun Empty Bowls at loudounemptybowls.org. n

ComNet, Stack, Albireo Energy, Commscope, Graybar, Carter Machinery, Yondr, Sunbelt, Digital Realty, Hitt, 7x24 Exchange, Himes Associates, Ardmac, Securis, CoreSite, CyrusOne, Loudoun County Economic Development, Moy Materials, RKD Architects, Aligned Data Centers, Phaidra, EdgeConneX, EE Reed, IPI Partners, Bala Consulting Engineers, JE Dunn, Iron Mountain, and Ethos Engineering.

In addition, a number of organiza-

tions came together to donate more than $16,000 to pay for the raised beds, including Munters Data Center, EdgeConneX, 7x24, David McCall, CyrusOne, Aligned Data Centers, JE Dunn, Digital Realty, FedP3, AKF Group, Bala Consulting, IPI Partners, EE Reed, Loudoun Economic Development, Yondr, Hitt Construction, Stack Infrastructure, and Greer Institute for Leadership.

Learn more about JK Community Farm at jkcommunityfarm.org. n

Samantha Kuhn

Volunteers from the data center industry help build 25 raised beds at JK Community Farm, to be planted with bee-friendly plants and grow the farm’s annual donations to hunger nonprofits by an estimated 1,000 meals.

Business

Ashburn Marketing Firm Awarded for VDH Vaccine Campaign

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com

Ashburn marketing firm Identika has been recognized for a campaign at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic urging people to remember those other vaccines.

Their statewide campaign, developed for the Virginia Department of Health, was awarded gold at the Davey Awards, the largest awards ceremony for smaller firms, sanctioned and judged by the invitation-only Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts.

During the first years of the pandemic, the state saw vaccinations of all kinds greatly decreased. The state health department hired Identika in 2020 to develop and implement a statewide marketing, advertising and communications campaign to fight misinformation and encourage people to get vaccinated against illnesses like human papillomavirus or HPV, meningitis, and the flu.

It was a campaign that presented some unusual challenges—from the strict requirements of the client, a government agency, to the deep-seated feelings many people have tied to vaccine misinformation.

“Let’s keep in mind that when we took over this contract, it was right in the middle of a pandemic,” Identika founder and CEO Fernando Beltran said. “So in addition to misinformation and everything else, the last thing people were worried about was really vaccines, especially other vaccines. So what we did is, we decided to target primarily moms as our main demographic, because moms are usually the decision makers when it comes to the health of the family.”

The resulting campaign appeared across print, digital, social media, billboards, at airports, on transit, and alongside social media influencers, along with putting health department leaders in front of people on TV, radio, newspapers, and other media. It also involved grassroots outreach in underserved communities, a one-stop bilingual website for learning about vaccination, vahealthy.org, and even directly helping organize some vaccination events.

According to the firm, it also resulted in around 18,000 social media followers, ads seen more than 315 million times and

more than 3,000 outreach events and vaccination clinics. That sort of work also helped catapult Identika onto the 2022 Inc. 5000, at number 524.

Many Virginians have seen Identika’s work likely without realizing it was a

small business in Ashburn that gave the state the familiar heart-shaped bandage logo and slogan.

“We decided if we approach vaccines from the standpoint of, ‘this thing’s going to protect you against viruses’ or ‘do

it because it’s the right thing to do,’ we know the message is not going to get across,” Beltran said. “So we tried to appeal to the family values, protecting your

Kuhn Files Plans for Leesburg-area Data Centers

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

JK Land Holdings announced Monday it has submitted a site plan application to develop warehouses and data centers on 112 acres southeast of Leesburg.

The land is located along Cochran Mill Road and Goose Creek. The tract includes land used for asphalt and concrete plants as well as undeveloped parcels. The new plan calls for transitioning the land for warehouse and data center use. The land is zoned Planned

Development–General Industry.

“We look forward to working with the county to make this available for commerce—including warehouses and data centers. Cochran Mill area is tucked away and long been used for heavy industrial, so our plan is a good fit and will contribute to the county’s growth,” CEO Chuck Kuhn stated in the announcement. “This is also consistent with our goal to balance growth with preservation.”

Together with property it owns in Prince William County, JKLH is work-

ing in partnership with Yondr Group to deliver 500MW of data center capacity on 270 acres.

In addition to buying and developing land, JKLH and the Kuhn family have conserved more than 22,000 acres, including a 128-acre Loudoun riverfront property that was donated to NOVA Parks, the 135-acre Westpark golf course in Leesburg that is being transformed into a park, 87-acre JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary, the 150 acre JK Community Farm near Purcellville and 42 acres in St. Louis. n

The Identika team, with founder and CEO Fernando Beltran at center.

Loudoun’s Tourism Revenue Tops $3B in Rebound

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Loudoun’s tourism revenue topped just over $3 billion in 2021, according to the latest data released by Virginia Tourism.

Visitor spending in Loudoun was up 61 percent from 2020, with $1.7 billion of that coming from transportation, which covers ground and air.

In 2021, tourism supported 13,533 jobs and $751 million in salaries and wages. It generated $108.9 million in local taxes as well as $55 million in state taxes. Across the state, Virginia’s tourism revenue reached $25.2 billion in 2021. That spending supported 185,000 jobs, $7.1 billion in salaries and wages, and $1.8 billion in state and local taxes.

Tourism Economics, which partners

with VTC to produce the annual economic impact study, uses aviation related spending for visitor’s airport and passenger data as well as any local transport services and the local share of air transportation spending in its calculations. With Tourism Economics including Dulles as part of Loudoun’s visitor spending data, it makes the county the largest tourism revenue generator in the

Commonwealth.

“Dulles is an economic engine for the region and with Metro set to open Nov 15, it will further connect Loudoun to the D.C. region and help drive more of that airport traffic through to our restaurants, wineries, breweries, hotels and other attractions,” Visit Loudoun President & CEO Beth Erickson said. “Even beyond the airport, the additional Loudoun Metro stops will bring a wave of new visitors into Loudoun who can now use public transportation to easily access DC’s Wine Country.”

“Washington Dulles International Airport is seeing a steady increase in tourism traffic from across the nation and around the world,” Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer of the Metropolitan Washington Airports

Authority Chryssa Westerlund said. “We appreciate our close partnership with Loudoun County as we work together to expand our non-stop flights beyond the current 100-plus U.S. cities and 50plus global destinations, to help support more new jobs and economic development across our region.”

“Tourism has seen an incredible comeback thanks to the hardworking leaders in the travel and tourism industry across Virginia,” Virginia Tourism Corporation President and CEO Rita McClenny said. “As travelers continue to visit communities across the state, Virginia is on pace to restore the tourism industry into the vibrant and highly performing economic engine it always has been. We look forward to an even stronger recovery in 2022.” n

Erickson McClenny

One Smile At A Time

Identika

continued from page 20

family—that’s what we called the campaign, ‘Protect the Ones You Love.’”

The personal nature of the topic and the diverse communities they targeted meant the company couldn’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Communicating in two languages meant more than just translating—sometimes a direct translation doesn’t have the same impact as in the original language. And working for a state agency, they had to work within guidelines from a government communications office, and get approvals through layers of oversight.

But Beltran said the Virginia Department of Health was supportive of their ideas, and Identika tried to push as much as they could—“I think we did some really creative, cool stuff.”

They also had to deal with a surge in misinformation and vitriol around vaccination.

“When it comes to vaccines, there’s a lot of controversy around it. So we have to double check, triple-check our information,” Beltran said. “We had to develop also certain guidelines when it comes to

people replying to content. When do we block someone? When do we reply to a comment, especially to some of the very nasty comments? Because we got quite a few of those.”

But Beltran said it was a special project. And the events they helped organize got around 8,000 people vaccinated—unusually direct action for a marketing and advertising firm.

“We love this project not just because of the challenge, but… it’s a good mission,” he said. “Our work is directly helping save lives and keep people healthy.”

Learn more about Identika at identika.com and visit the campaign website at vahealthy.org. n

“We love this project not just because of the challenge, but… it’s a good mission.”

— Identika founder and CEO Fernando Beltran

Politics

Zurn Will Not Seek Reelection

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Loudoun County Treasurer Roger Zurn announced Thursday on Facebook that he will not seek reelection in 2023, ending a career in elected office that began with a special election in 1990 in a very different Loudoun.

That was when Zurn won a seat representing the Sterling District on the county Board of Supervisors, 1,473 votes to 548. He went on to win the next general election and served on the county board for six years before winning the 1995 election for county treasurer.

He is now in his seventh term as treasurer, a post he has held for 27 years—28 by the time his term is up at the end of next year.

“During that time I have always tried to put taxpayers first along with the fiscal health of the County. During my tenure, we moved from a single A bond rating to AAA+. I have seen the population grow from 90,000 to over 420,000. The budget has grown from $500 million to $4.5 billion,” Zurn wrote. “In this job, I have been through three recessions, investing County funds without ever incurring a loss of taxpayers monies. Currently we invest over $1 billion dollars of which I singularly approve each and every investment. I helped to write the County fiscal policies as well as the Investment policy. Most recently, we became the only jurisdiction in the Commonwealth to bill and collect for incorporated Towns. I could go on but it will suffice to say I am proud of the work I have done over the years.”

He also pointed to his record of never having lost an election, and no opponent ever coming with 14 points of catching

him.

“I like to think that was my report card of what the voters thought of the job I was doing. Most of all, I have enjoyed my job and the people that I have worked with over the years. I never forget it is the people working with me who make me look good,” he wrote.

But now, he wrote “there comes a time to consider life after work.”

“It has been one heck of a ride and I am thankful to the voters, my fellow workers and most of all God, I never envisioned this path but the Lord blessed me and guided me along the way,” he wrote. “I am thankful for the opportunity to have served and will always cherish the memories of all the great people I have encountered along the way. What the next chapter will hold I do not know, but truly look forward to experiencing whatever the future brings.”

Zurn did not return a request for comment. n

Khanna Announces Dulles District Campaign

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

Small business owner and mental health advocate Puja Khanna has announced she will run for the Dulles District seat on the county Board of Supervisors.

In a press release, she wrote she will run because “it is time for Dulles District to have representation that reflects the values and demographics of its residents,” pointing to 2020 Census data that showed more than 20% of Loudoun’s population is Asian. Khanna wrote she is an Indian immigrant who has lived in Virginia for two decades and moved to Loudoun in 2011.

And she said she understands “the challenges of being an immigrant seeking the American Dream without the inherent privileges afforded to some who were born with it.” And she said Dulles needs “a new, forward-leaning vision, which is only possible with new leadership.”

She said she is running because she wants to see things done differently. She said she wants to fully fund schools and

allow for greater resources for mental health within them, while acknowledging supervisors can only give the schools money—they cannot control what the School Board does with that money. She also said she plans to focus on smart growth and smart development within the county.

“Land use is big on my agenda. Land is a limited resource, and we definitely need to make wise decisions on who is using it and to help with the environment,” she said.

“COVID has taught us our ability to get out of our homes is important. I would focus on shred pathways for the Dulles District so people can get from one place to another safely without a car,” she added. “I want people to have healthy lifestyles.”

A mental health instructor, she has served on several boards and has offered free mental health programs in partnership with the Loudoun County Public Library. She transitioned from IT to holistic coaching and founded “Mindfulness with Puja” in 2018. She also founded an online Teen Mental Health group in 2020 during pandemic lockdowns.

“Mental health in general is important to me. I worked for a number of years in the community on that,” she said.

She is president of Loudoun Interfaith Bridges and has three children in Loudoun County Public Schools, one each in elementary, middle and high school. She has volunteered for after-school programs like Odyssey of the Mind and First Lego League, and serves on the PTO of Stone Hill Middle School.

“Running for office came naturally. I’ve been involved in the community for a long time,” she said. “This was the next logical step so I can serve the larger community.”

Khanna said helping others is her passion and if elected, she will continue to be a strong advocate for social and emotional well-being in the county.

Khanna holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Chandigarh, India and studied Arts Management at American University. She is also a graduate of several programs designed to help women get elected to public office, including EMERGE, Meet our Moment, EMILY’s List, Virginia Progressive Leadership Program and Demand a Seat program with Moms Demand Action. For more information go to secure.actblue.com/ donate/puja-for-dulles.

The Dulles District has been represented by Matthew F. Letourneau (R) since 2012. n

County Democrats Chair Resigns to Run for Supervisor

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounow.com

With the last ballots of the 2022 elections still coming in, the first formal announcement from a challenger in the 2023 Board of Supervisors race had already been made.

Loudoun County Democratic Committee Chair Lissa Savaglio announced Wednesday, Nov. 9 that she will step down from chairing the committee to run for the Board of Supervisors in the new Little River District in next year’s election. Her resignation takes effect Dec. 1.

“The Little River District is a new district to Loudoun County and deserves representation that is not afraid to stand up for the values that we hold dear. We will not go backwards and, as I have sought to demonstrate time and time again, I will work tirelessly to bring this community together for the betterment of all,” Savaglio stated in the announcement.

“I am running on the foundation of beliefs that inspire me: public education, human rights, climate change, as well as issues specific to Little River, such as bringing action to solve the disrupting noise pollution from the Dulles Airport and the preservation of Western Loudoun.”

Although it’s her first run for office, Savaglio has been active in politics and the Loudoun Democratic committee since 2016. Like many Democrats campaigning today, she said she was urged to action during former president Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign and election.

“I remember I was watching the debate between Trump and Hillary [Clinton] sitting on my couch with my daughter, who was in high school at that time, and just watching him kind of tower over Hillary and realizing just what was going on,” she said. “I was looking at my daughter thinking, when my grandkids read about this time in history books and ask what I did, my answer couldn’t be ‘nothing.’”

In terms of specific goals on the county board, she pointed to the ongoing debate over the high noise zone around Dulles Airport. A Brambleton resident, she is among the Loudouners who see jet traffic from Dulles flying low over their homes. n

Zurn

Khanna

Savaglio

Towns

Lovettsville Council Approves $45K in Nonprofit, Small Business Grants

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.com

The Lovettsville Town Council has set aside $20,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding for to provide grants to nonprofits, and another $25,000 for small businesses.

It is the second round of grants approved by the council, with the first round approved in August 2021.

For nonprofits to be eligible for a grant, they must complete an application with a statement of need and impact in the community and provide IRS 990 forms for 2019, 2020, and 2021, a valid IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter

and the organization’s monthly financial statements. During a presentation to the council, Town Manager Jason Cournoyer said the minimum amount awarded to a nonprofit would be $1,500.

For small businesses to be eligible for a grant, they must meet both the federal requirements set by the U.S. Treasury and those set by the Town of Lovettsville.

Federal requirements dictate that the funding must be used for rehabilitation of commercial properties, storefront improvements, façade improvements, or creation and/or enhanced outdoor spaces that can increase public activity while minimizing the spread of COVID-19 as a funding basis.

The town requires demonstrating financial impact from COVID-19 by comparing 2019 and 2021 federally reported gross revenues, being in good standing with the town, and having had a business license since 2019.

The town is taking two different approaches for the small business grants, setting aside $10,000 for hardship grants for businesses that suffered the adverse financial effects of the pandemic. The remaining $15,000 is designated for capital investment matching grants. Cournoyer said businesses could be eligible for both.

The town is planning to post the application on its website by Dec. 1, with the goal to approve grants in January. n

Lovettsville Honors Veterans with New Pavers

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounow.com

The Town of Lovettsville and its residents held a Veterans Day ceremony at the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Banquet Hall to honor area those who served in the military and dedicate new pavers for the Veterans Memorial.

Mayor Nathaniel Fontaine emceed the program that included an opening and closing prayer by Chaplain United States Army Yul Song, a guest appearance by the Lovettsville Elementary Fifth Grade Chorus, a ceremony to honor prisoners of war and service members missing in action, a keynote speech by President and CEO of the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes David Walker, and a speech by American Legion Post 1836 representative Eddie Johnston.

Fontaine dedicated 13 new pavers that were added to the Lovettsville Veterans Memorial earlier this week. Service members honored on were: J.P. Foit, Reau James, Wade Robert, Robin Robison, Gary Robison, John Fleming, Richard Fleming, Roy Cole, Harold Baker, Lizzy Fontaine, Nate Fontaine, Sean Goza, and Larry Mitchell.

Walker spoke on the sacrifice made by veterans everywhere and the toll that service to the country takes on both the service member and their family.

Antonio

“Today is Veteran’s Day,” he said. “We are here to honor and commemorate the men and women who in every war since our founding have given their wealth and courage and even put their lives on the line in defense for our liberty.”

He also commended the town for its work honoring veterans including the establishment of an American Legion post.

The Lovettsville Fifth Grade Chorus, directed by Antonio Ford, sang a variety of songs including the National Anthem, It’s a Grand Old Flag, Fifty Nifty and God Bless the USA.

Johnston shared stories of servicemen and their sacrifices.

“So many veterans [thought] our nation was important enough to endure long separations from their families, miss the birth of their children, freeze in subzero temperatures, bake in hot jungles, lose limbs, and too far, loose their lives,” he said.

The Lovettsville Veterans Memorial was established in 2012 along with the Veteran Paver Program. Anyone interested in sponsoring a paver may contact the Lovettsville Town Hall or go to the town website. n

AROUND towns

HAMILTON Methodist Church Bazaar Planned Saturday

The popular Holiday Bazaar, organized by Harmony United Methodist Church, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds will be used to support the church’s projects assisting those in need.

Following a three-decade tradition, volunteers from the church have spent Saturdays and evenings for several months crafting and creating holiday items and gifts for the bazaar. Shoppers can expect to see a selection of wreaths, ornaments, decorative and gift items, as well as other finds in the Vintage Shop. Canned goods and preserves will be available and offer a variety of jams and even pickles with attitude. Baked goods will include pepperoni rolls and hot sticky buns.

A children’s room staffed by the church youth group will help little shoppers find affordable gifts for the special people in their lives. A silent auction raises funds and includes a variety of gift baskets, gift cards donated by area businesses, and other items.

Funds raised by the Holiday Bazaar are used to help the Loudoun County Hyperthermia Shelter, the Salvation Army Angel Tree, Mobile Hope, Loudoun Hunger Relief, Backpack Buddies, Teens Opposing Poverty, Hero Homes, the Society of St. Andrew and the Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter.

The church is located at 380 East Colonial Highway.

HILLSBORO

Hillsboro Gets New Council Member

Roger Vance will continue to serve as Hillsboro’s mayor, following the town’s elections last Tuesday.

Voters also filled five Town Council seats.

Planning Commission Chairman David MacDuffee joins the council,

Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now

Ford directs the Lovettsville Elementary 5th Grade Chorus at Lovettsville’s Veterans Day Ceremony.

AROUND towns

filling a seat held by Vice Mayor Claudia Forbes since 2017.

The other incumbent council members—Lisa Franke, Paul Hrebenak, Stephen Moskal, and Laney Oxman—were elected to new terms.

Vance has served as mayor for the past 16 years following eight years on the Town Council.

LOVETTSVILLE

Kris Kindle Mart Returns

The Lovettsville Lions Club on Dec. 3, is partnering with the Game Protective Association to revive Lovettsville’s Kris Kindle Mart.

The Christmas themed market will feature vendors selling a variety of products including White House Christmas ornaments, baked goods, and a selection of traditional German food.

Lovettsville Lions Club member, Lisa Brill said the market is the same concept as in the past but with a new twist. She said that previously all the vendors sold German food and products but that this

year she opened it up to different kinds of vendors.

“It’s the same, but different,” she stated.

The market will take place at the Lovettsville Game Protective Association on 16 South Berlin Pike from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

LUCKETTS Lucketts Ruritan Supports Wildlife Sanctuary

The Lucketts Ruritan Club Environ-

mental Committee recently participated in a tree planting, clean-up and construction of a deer exclosure on the JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary property.

The project was organized by the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy.

Along with the LWC volunteers, the Ruritans recruited youth volunteers from the Tuscarora High School Key Club to assist in the effort. The projects provided the students an opportunity to learn about the rare plant and animal species that reside in the sanctuary and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them.

MIDDLEBURG

Street Sign Sales Top $1,500

The effort to sell the town’s old street signs to support town’s charitable Health Center Fund is paying dividends. More than $1,500 had been raised as of last week.

After replacing street signs throughout the town, the Town Council voted to offer the old signs to residents and businesses as keepsakes—or potentially Christmas presents. As of the Nov. 10 council meeting, 61 signs had been sold for $25 each. n

LoCo Living

Loudoun’s Jazz Pastor

Chip Hammond Explores the Spiritual Roots of America’s Music

BY JAN MERCKER jmercker@loudounnow.com

Chip Hammond found music first. Then he found Jesus.

Hammond, a Leesburg-based Presbyterian minister and jazz drummer, explores the spiritual roots of jazz in his story and song performance “Jazz: Spirituality in a Minor Key” on Friday, Nov. 18.

“I talk about the intertwining of the Christian faith with the formation of jazz and the reflection of it in jazz. The points that I make are underscored and punctuated by music,” Hammond said.

Hammond grew up playing drums in rock bands in the New Jersey suburbs of New York City and at one point thought

music was his calling. But finding Christianity in his late teens changed everything and led to a different—but still rich—relationship with music.

“I thought [music] was what I was going to do in life,” he said. “I did not grow up in a particularly spiritual home,” Hammond said. “I had a spiritual awakening of sorts my freshman year of college. I still did music but it became less important as I pursued my education”

Finding Christianity while an undergrad at William Paterson College in New Jersey was life-changing for Hammond, an awakening inspired by his brother’s faith journey.

“His life just radically changed, and it kind of got my attention. I was a pretty outspoken atheist until that point,“

Hammond said.

Hammond became heavily involved with churches in New Jersey. As his faith grew, he felt a calling to pursue the ministry, inspired in part by the biblical Book of Amos, a shepherd turned prophet.

“Amos says, ‘I wasn’t a preacher. I was a shepherd and a pruner of sycamore fig trees and God called me and told me to do this.’ I kind of identify with Amos,” Hammond said.

Hammond earned his Master of Divinity degree from Westminster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. Shortly after graduating he got a call from Bethel Presbyterian Church in Leesburg as part

SPIRITUAL ROOTS

LOCO LIVE

Live Music: Julia Kasdorf

Friday, Nov. 18, 5 p.m.

Dirt Farm Brewing, 18701 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont Details: dirtfarmbrewing.com

Kasdorf’s exceptional voice, top-notch guitar skills and catalog of standards, pop hits, folk and rock ‘n’ roll set her apart on the local music scene.

Live Music: Gary Smallwood

Friday, Nov. 18, 5 p.m.

Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville

Details: twotwistedposts.com

Celebrate Friday with Gary Smallwood’s locally famous classic rock, country rock and blues.

Live Music: Kelley Jeanne Friday, Nov. 18, 5 p.m.

Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing Kelley Jeanne brings “glitter and grit” with a combination of classical techniques and a bluesy vibe.

Live Music: Chris Ellinghaus and Friends Friday, Nov. 18, 5:30 p.m.

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com

Just South of 7’s Chris Ellinghaus serves up acoustic favorites from the ’60s through today for a fun brewery afternoon.

Live Music: Meisha Herron Friday, Nov. 18, 6 p.m.

Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com

Rising star Meisha Herron returns to Flying Ace for an evening of soul and blues.

Live Music: Mark Dunn Friday, Nov. 18, 6 p.m.

Bear Chase Brewing Company, 18294 Blue Ridge Mountain Road, Bluemont Details: bearchasebrew.com

It’s an evening of acoustic rock, country and blues on the hillside with Mark Dunn.

Live Music: Kix

Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m.

Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg  Details: tallyhotheater.com

The Hagerstown, MD-based glam metal/ hard rock band achieved national fame in the 80s and continues to tour in celebration of the 35th anniversary of “Midnite Dynamite.” Tickets are $39.50.

Live Music: Dave Mininberg

Saturday, Nov. 19, noon

Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing Well known for his work with the band 7th Son of WV, Mininberg brings a unique blend of originals, classic rock, blues and country.

Contributed

Pastor Chip Hammond performs on drums with his jazz band, On Easy Street.

Beyond Thank You: Loudoun Program Reflects on the Service of Veterans

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

The George C. Marshall International Center hosted its 18th annual Veterans Day Commemoration ceremony Nov. 11, featuring remarks by Vice Admiral Joseph D. Kernan and a pledge from the county Board of Supervisors to do more to sup port Gold Star families.

Kernan served for 36 years, a career that included roles as the commanding officer of SEAL Team Two, command er of Naval Special Warfare Command, deputy commander of the U.S. Southern Command, and as under secretary of the Defense, Intelligence and Security.

“It is particularly fitting to celebrate this day at the home of one of greatest veteran leaders and public servants who selflessly and so effectively served this county and, candidly, the world through several military conflicts, through post-conflict recoveries, through depres sion, and through a whole multitude of other human misfortunes,” Kernan said. “As a general, a cabinet secretary, and Red Cross president, Marshall’s life’s work and example certainly transcends many generations of veterans, but well those who strive for peace and freedom.”

“Marshall’s character certainly was forged in uniform and his example re mains a standard that virtually every vet eran should strive to emulate. I would say citizens, leaders and diplomates should strive for that as well,” he said.

Kernan highlighted concerns over the nation’s eroding leadership on the global stage and challenges facing today’s mili tary, especially in recruitment.

“I’ll contend that our national security is uniquely threatened today and our re public could, if we are complacent, lose our position as a global, preeminent de mocracy without a shot ever being fired,” he said. “Sadly, that is enabled by some internal discord, and arguably as well some lackluster responses to actions of great power competitors, despots, and criminals. As [Marshall] once said, the patient is sinking while the doctors delib erate. He also said that if man does find a solution for world peace, it will be the most revolutionary reversal of his record we have ever known.”

“Our adversaries care little of our past events or our values, just about current and future opportunities to undermine freedom and reward themselves. They

operate lawlessly and elusively in expan sive physical and virtual domains. The likes of Putin, Assad, Rossi, Kim Jong Un, Bin Ladin, drug cartels—they will come and they will go and they will keep universal peace waiting forever. There lies the mandate for a strong military manned by courageous and honorable individuals who stand ready to serve and ready to be well-lead. Veterans have been and hope fully will always remain lights of hope, striving for peace and freedom, resolutely facing our adversaries. They do compre hend Marshall’s contention that the price of peace is enteral vigilance and that the only way human beings can win a war is to prevent it.”

Kernan said building the next gen eration of military leaders remains a challenge.

“We are not doing so well as of late,” he said. “For whatever reason you might opine, one glaring issue remains recruit ing. It is not going well across all the ser vices. Aside from a simple desire to serve, one aggravating statistic is that 70% of those eligible to serve in the armed forces do not meet the physical standards to do so. Whatever the other factors, I hope it does not take another catastrophic event the likes of Pearl Harbor or 9/11 to re solve the issue.”

Kernan and county leaders are look ing to push beyond simple “thank you’s” to repay the service of veterans and their families.

“Veterans just consistently display honor, courage, commitment and loy alty, the magnitude of the sacrifices and hardships experienced by them and their families, the challenges of dealing with physical and mental disabilities brought on by their service, of late traumatic brain injury, PTSD, which far too often these days results in suicide. The appreciation they deserve from the general populous, thank you’s are very much appreciated, but supporting one of the many nonprofits fighting to serve veteran needs is probably a better way to say it. Thank you to those who are working for veterans.”

County Chair Phyllis Randall (D-At Large) gathered on stage with other super visors attending the program to announce the board’s plans next month to expand support for families of service men and women who die in the line of duty.

She said the board was surprised to learn last year that the families of military personnel killed in the line of duty do not receive the tax breaks and benefits afford ed to those killed in action.

“We were pretty surprised by that and

thought that was a problem,” Randall said.

The county sought state legislation during the General Assembly session to expand the benefits statewide, but the issue was left of each county to decide. Randall said that on Dec. 6, the Loudoun board plans to become the first govern ment to extend those benefits.

“We made the decision that we were going to be first, because if you know me Fairfax is not going to beat us, ever,” Ran dall said.

She gave examples of line-of-duty deaths as those killed by friendly fire, who die of cancer traceable to burn pits, or who die by suicide because of their combat trauma.

“On, Dec. 6, Loudoun County will be the first county in Virginia that en sures that every Gold Star family who lost somebody in the line of duty will have the exact same benefits as those who were killed in action,” Randall said. “We cannot say that we care about veterans if we do not take care of the veterans’ families.” n

TO BENEFIT JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION AND LOUDOUN HUNGER RELIEF

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now Retired Vice Admiral Joseph D. Kernan speaks during the 2022 Veterans Day Commemoration at Dodona Manor in Leesburg.

THINGS to do

Live Music: Rowdy Ace

Saturday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m.

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts

Details: vanishbeer.com

Kick back with a fun mix of country and rock tunes from Rowdy Ace.

Live Music: Moxie Saturday, Nov. 19, 2 p.m.

Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro

Details: harvestgap.com

Enjoy an afternoon of uplifting acoustic favorites from Moxie.

Live Music: Ken Wenzel Saturday, Nov. 19, 2 p.m.

Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro

Details: breauxvineyards.com

Wenzel returns to Breaux with his signature rootsrock, country-jazz take on love, learning and life in America.

Live Music: Deane Kern and Eric Selby Saturday, Nov. 19, 2 p.m.

Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com

Check out modern acoustic roots music from one of Loudoun’s most dynamic duos.

Live Music: Jake Phillips Saturday, Nov. 19, 3 p.m.

Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com

With a powerful voice and dynamic guitar skills, Phillips’s repertoire includes original music and an eclectic set of classic folk and alternative covers.

Live Music: Kareem McCullough and Rachel Rowles Saturday, Nov. 19, 5 p.m.

Maverick Bikes and Cafe, 32 C Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg

Details: revolutionsmaverickllc.com

Classical guitarist Kareem McCullough and bluegrass artist Rachel Rowles team up for musical magic.

Live Music: Steve George and Friends Saturday, Nov. 19, 5 p.m.

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg

Details: lostbarrel.com

Celebrate Saturday with classic rock, country, blues and beyond from a local favorite.

Live Music: Mark Cullinane Saturday, Nov. 19, 5 p.m.

Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing Cullinane is back with acoustic classic rock tunes for a fun afternoon.

Live Music: Joey Hafner Saturday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m.

Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com

Local favorite Joey Hafner plays acoustic songs to sing along from the ’70s through the 2000s.

Live Music: Dave Goodrum Sunday, Nov. 20, 1 p.m.

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com

Goodrum brings acoustic music at its most fun, covering a range of genres from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today.

Loudoun Jazz Jam

Sunday, Nov. 20, 1 p.m.

Chefscape, 1602 Village Market Blvd. #115, Leesburg

Details: chefscapekitchen.com Join the Loudoun Jazz Society every third Sunday for a fun jazz jam.

Live Music: Hugh Ghiringhelli Sunday, Nov. 20, 1 p.m.

Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville Details: creeksedgewinery.com Check out alt-country favorites and much more from Hugh Ghringhelli of the Lost Corner Vagabonds.

Live Music: Matthew Metz Sunday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m.

Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville

Details: flyingacefarm.com

Matthew Metz plays old-time guitar, paying tribute influences including Doc Watson, Mississippi John Hurt and Merle Travis while creating a unique sound.

mystery featuring gumshoe Harry Monday who has his work cut out for him when Harrigan’s department store has its payroll stolen, and Santa Claus is kidnapped. Tickets are $18

Last Ham Standing

Saturday, Nov. 19, 8-9:30 p.m.

Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville

Details: franklinparkartscenter.org

This hilarious show is full of laughs for the whole family as performers take suggestions from the audience to create wacky scenes and improv games. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and $10 for children.

Waterford Concert Series: Castalian String Quartet Sunday, Nov. 20, 4-6 p.m.

Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford Details: waterfordconcertseries.org

The London-based Castalian String Quartet are rising stars on the international classical scene. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for students and free for children 12 and under.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

Claude Moore Turkey Time Camp re Friday, Nov. 18, 4:30-5:45 p.m.

Claude Moore Park, 21544 Vestals Gap Road, Sterling Details: facebook.com/claudemoorepark

Live Music: Melissa Quinn Fox Sunday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m.

Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro

Details: breauxvineyards.com

Wammie-winner Melissa Quinn Fox returns to Breaux with her signature high-energy blend of rock and country.

Live Music: Juliet Lloyd Sunday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m.

Doukénie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com

Singer/songwriter/pianist Juliet Lloyd returns to Doukénie with her signature pop, rock and classic soul favorites.

Live Music: So Fetch 2000s Dance Party Wednesday, Nov. 23, 8 p.m.

Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg  Details: tallyhotheater.com

Tally Ho’s annual Thanksgiving Eve show features favorites from the 2000s with So Fetch. Tickets are $20.

LOCO CULTURE

‘Scrooge: The Musical’ Friday, Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Capital Community Church, 20430 Ashburn Village Boulevard, Ashburn Details: thepickwickplayers.com

Pickwick Players presents this adaptation of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” with a joyous and humorous musical score. Tickets are $25 for adults, $21 for seniors and children under 12.

‘If It’s Monday, This Must Be Christmas’ Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m.

Seneca Ridge Middle School, 98 Seneca Ridge Drive, Sterling Details: sterlingplaymakers.org

Sterling Playmakers presents a holiday comedy/

Practice turkey calls as you wander the trails and see where turkeys frolic. After the walk enjoy a campfire and roast marshmallows. Event is free but advance registration is required.

Freeze Your Gizzard 5K and Fun Run Saturday, Nov. 19, 9 a.m.

Ida Lee Park, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg Details: leesburgva.gov

This beloved local tradition is now in its 20th year and includes a 5K and 1-mile fun run. Registration is $40 for the 5K and $20 for the fun run.

Village at Leesburg Tree Lighting Festival

Saturday, Nov. 19, 4-7 p.m.

Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg

Details: villageatleesburg.com

Kick off the holidays at VAL with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the WISH tree benefiting Mobile Hope, performances from local groups, carolers, cookie decorating and ice skating.

Artisan Holiday Shopping at Oatlands Sunday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg Details: oatlands.org

Shop for pottery, jewelry and other work made by local artisans.

JULIA KASDORF

Friday, Nov. 18, 5-8 p.m.

Dirt Farm Brewing juliakasdorfmusic.com

Spiritual roots

continued from page 26

of that congregation’s search for a pastor. The church was a good fit, and Hammond and his family found a welcoming community in Loudoun. Hammond has been pastor at Bethel for nearly 30 years and went on to earn his doctorate from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts while serving at Bethel.

Hammond said his divinity studies, work as a pastor and raising four children with his wife, Donna, didn’t leave much time for music for a couple of decades.

“[Music] got put on hold for a number of years,” he said. He said Donna, whom he describes as “a phenomenal singer,” helped bring music back into his life. “It’s something we started to do together,” he said.

Around 10 years ago, Hammond discovered the Loudoun jazz scene and started attending local jazz jams. Hammond formed his band, On Easy Street, and when the band lost its female vocalist a few years ago, Donna Hammond jumped in as the singer.

Hammond has been exploring the connections between jazz and spirituality for decades. He’s inspired in part by the work of one of his mentors, William Edgar, a professor at Westminster and jazz pianist whose book “A Supreme Love” explores the links between jazz and Christianity.

“What [Edgar] says that I think is really true is that jazz has a certain sadness to it. You hear it in what they call the blue notes: the flatted thirds and fifths and

BEST BETS

KIX

Friday, Nov. 18, 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m.

Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com

sevenths. But there’s also a defiant joy,” Hammond said.

He created his concert/seminar ”Jazz: Spirituality in a Minor Key” combining a talk on the spiritual roots of jazz, with a focus on faith and the African American community, with jazz and blues classics. Hammond is backed by his band, On Easy Street, for the show, with Donna Hammond on vocals, Ryan Benton on piano and guitar and Chris Thompson on bass. The band specializes in jazz from the 1920s through the 1950s, and the performance features familiar pieces from Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Fats Waller, Bobby Timmons and other greats.

Hammond recently launched a jazz jam at Bethel on the third Thursday of each month. He plans to continue to explore spirituality as a musician, finding meaning and connection in the music.

“Jazz, as Wynton Marsalis has said, is really about life. It kind of looks at all

the aspects of life.” Hammond said. “The blues really are a reminder that God’s not just in our happy moments. He’s in our sad moments too. The Bible is full of blues.” n

DUNLAP AND MABE

Saturday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m.

Barns of Rose Hill barnsofrosehill.org

Minor Key” featuring On Easy Street takes place Friday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 37018 Glendale St. in Purcellville. Admission is free and donations will be accepted. For details and advance registration, go to facebook.com/stpetes.

Chip Hammond’s “Jazz: Spirituality in

Contributed

Pastor Chip Hammond behind his drum kit.

Deputy

Aquatics

Assistant

Custodian

Groundskeeper

Land Acquisition Manager

Maintenance Worker I

Parks & Recreation $52,446 - $95,178 DOQ Open until filled

Public Works & Capital Projects $86,040-$156,137 DOQ Open until filled

Planning & Zoning $72,952-$132,386 DOQ Open until filled

$52,446-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled

Parks & Recreation $50,000-$63,626 DOQ Open until filled

Public Works & Capital Projects $93,438-$169,567 DOQ Open until filled

Parks & Recreation $50,000 - $81,495 DOQ Open until filled

Town Attorney $72,952-$132,387 DOQ Open until filled

Public Works & Capital Projects $50,000-$75,040 DOQ Open until filled

Police Detective Police

$68,356-$109,934 DOQ Open until filled

Police Officer Police $62,000-$109,934 DOQ Open until filled

Police School Resource Officer Police $68,356-$109,934 DOQ Open until filled

Police Traffic Officer Police $68,356-$109,934 DOQ Open until filled

Project Manager Utilities $76,426-$138,530 DOQ Open until filled

NHLEmployerCard2.pdf

Senior Engineer Plan Review $70,374-$127,560 DOQ Open until filled

Senior Planner (Preservation and Zoning Administration)

Stormwater and Environmental Manager

Transportation Engineer

Planning & Zoning $67,175-$121,947 DOQ Open until filled

Public Works & Capital Projects $82,999-$150,445 DOQ Open until filled

Public Works & Capital Projects $82,999-$150,445 DOQ Open until filled

Utility Inspector II Utilities $56,956-$103,363 DOQ Open until filled

Utility Plant Technician or Senior Utility Plant Technician Utilities $50,000-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled

Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee, I or II Utilities $50,000-$95,178 DOQ Open until filled

Legal Notices

LEGAL NOTICE for ABC License

Amia Salon & Spa, LLC, trading as LipLash Organic Spa, 20755 Williamsport PL, Unit 220, Ashburn, VA 20147-6523.

The above establishment is applying to the VIRGNIA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Marketplace License to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.

Judson H. Bach/Michelle Khau

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.

11/17 & 11/24/22

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (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 December 13, 2022 for the following:

RFP NO. 100330-FY23-05

COMPREHENSIVE ENGINEERING, SURVEYING AND RELATED SERVICES FOR FEDERALLY FUNDED PROJECTS

The Town of Leesburg, Virginia (Town) is requesting sealed proposals for engineering, surveying and related professional and nonprofessional services for federally funded projects.

For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard

11/17/22

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ030702

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Aislan Trevor McCall

Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v.

Dyana Elizabeth Guaraldi, mother

The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-253 for Aislan Trevor McCall, and; hold a dispositional hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.2 for Aislan Trevor McCall.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Dyana Elizabeth Guaraldi, mother appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before November 16, 2022 at 2:00pm (adj) and December 12, 2022 at 10:00am (disp).

11/10, 11/17, 11/24 & 12/01/22

LoudounNow.com

TOWN OF LEESBURG

NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER MINOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSE2022-0007 OLD MILL VETERINARY HOSPITAL EXPANSION

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, NOVEMBER 29, 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-2022-0007, Old Mill Veterinary Hospital Expansion.

The subject of the application is an existing veterinary hospital situated at 91 Lawson Road SE. The property is zoned I-1, Industrial Research Park and is further described by Loudoun County Parcel Identification Numbers (PINs) 231-19-8510-001 and 231-19-8510-002.

Minor Special Exception Application TLSE-2022-0007 is a request by Old Mill Boarding Kennel & Animal Hospital to allow a 6,700 square foot addition to the existing veterinary hospital pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance Section 6.7.2 Use Regulations.

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 Christopher Murphy, Senior Planning Project Manager by telephone at 703-737-7009, or by email at cmurphy@leesburgva.gov

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.

11/17 & 11/23/2022

TOWN OF LEESBURG

NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLES 5, 6, 9 AND 18 FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVISING ACCESSORY DWELLING REGULATIONS AND REMOVING EXTENDED FAMILY RESIDENCE REGULATIONS

Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2022-0002 to revise the following articles of the Zoning Ordinance:

• Article 5 Residential Zoning Districts to allow an Accessory Dwelling and Guest House as a permitted or Minor Special Exception Use in the R-E, R-1, R-2, R-4, R-HD Districts, and to remove Extended Family Residences as a use from the R-4, R-6 and R-8 Districts.

• Article 6 Nonresidential Districts to allow an Accessory Dwelling and Guest House as a permitted or Minor Special Exception use in the B-1 District.

• Article 9 Use Regulations to establish use standards for Accessory Dwellings and Guest Houses and to remove Extended Family Residences use standards

• Article 9 Use Table to revise the Use Table to reflect these changes in the district uses.

• Article 18 Definitions – to revise definitions as necessary for Accessory Dwelling and Guest House, and to remove the Extended Family Residence definition.

Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-771-2774 and asking for Brian Boucher, Deputy Director. Mr. Boucher can also be reached by email at bboucher@leesburgva.gov. This Zoning Ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2022-0002.

At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 11/17 & 11/24/2022

Legal Notices

Loudoun County Public Schools

Fiscal Year 2024 – 2029 Capital

Improvement Program

Fiscal Year 2024 – 2029 Capital Asset

Preservation Program

The Loudoun County School Board has scheduled meetings for the Fiscal Year 2024 - 2029 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Capital Asset Preservation Program (CAPP) budgets.

Date Time School Board Meeting Topic

Tuesday, November 15, 2022* 4:00 p.m. Superintendent’s Recommended FY 2024-FY 2029 CIP & CAPP Budgets Presented to School Board

Monday, November 28, 2022 6:30 p.m. School Board FY 2024-FY 2029 CIP & CAPP Public Hearing/Work Session

Monday, December 5, 2022 6:30 p.m. School Board FY 2024-FY 2029 CIP & CAPP Public Hearing/Work Session

Tuesday, December 13, 2022* 6:30 p.m. School Board Adoption of FY 2024-FY 2029 CIP & CAPP Budgets

*Regular School Board Business Meeting

The meetings will be held at the Loudoun County Public Schools Administration Building (21000 Education Court, Ashburn) and broadcast live on Comcast channel 18 and Verizon Fios channel 43, as well as viewable via simultaneous webcast on the Loudoun County Public Schools website (https:// www.lcps.org/webcast).

Detail on how to sign up to speak at the hearings is provided at https://www.lcps.org/Page/223425. In-person sign-up will also be available between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., on the evening of each attendance zone public hearing.

Those who need translation/interpretation assistance or a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability in order to participate meaningfully in the School Board meetings or public hearings should contact the Superintendent’s Office at 571-252-1020 at least three (3) days prior to the meeting.

Kevin L. Lewis, Chief Operations Officer

Loudoun County Public Schools, Department of Support Services 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, Virginia 20148

Telephone: 571-252-1385

Email: LCPSPLAN@LCPS.ORG

11/11/2022, 11/18/2022, 11/25/2022, 12/2/2022, 12/9/2022

NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLES

This notice is to inform the owner and any person having a security interest in their right to reclaim the motor vehicle herein described within 15 days after the date of storage charges resulting from placing the vehicle in custody, and the failure of the owner or persons having security interests to exercise their right to reclaim the vehicle within the time provided shall be deemed a waiver by the owner, and all persons having security interests of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, and consent to the sale of the abandoned motor vehicle at a public auction. This notice shall also advise the owner of record of his or her right to contest the determination by the Sheriff that the motor vehicle was “abandoned,” as provided in Chapter 630.08 of the Loudoun County Ordinance, by requesting a hearing before the County Administrator in writing. Such written request for a hearing must be made within 15 days of the notice.

YR. MAKE MODEL VIN STORAGE PHONE#

2011 INFINIT G37X JN1CV6AR5BM356165 D&M TOWING 703-777-7300

2003 FORD F-550 1FDAF56PZ4EA67238 BLAIR’S TOWING 703-661-8200

2015 KIA OPTIMA 5XXGM4A71FG482197 AL’S TOWING 703-435-8888

2008 TOYT CAMRY 4T1BE46KX8U226833 AL’S TOWING 703-435-8888 11/10 & 11/17/22

Public Notice

The Town of Leesburg Board of Zoning Appeals

The Town of Leesburg is soliciting resumes and letters of interest for an appointment to serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals. This position is appointed by the Loudoun County Circuit Court to fill a former member’s unexpired term ending December 31, 2023.

The Board of Zoning Appeals meets as necessary the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA. Additional information concerning this quasi-judicial board is available from the Clerk of Council during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-771-2733 or eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or the Town of Leesburg website at www.leesburgva.gov

Please submit your letter of interest and resume materials by 5:00 p.m., Friday, December 2, 2022, to the Clerk of Council, at the Town of Leesburg, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 or via email to eboeing@leesburgva.gov. All interested parties will be forwarded to the Loudoun County Circuit Court for consideration.

11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1/22

TOWN OF LEESBURG

NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 9 FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVISING HOMESTAY USE STANDARDS

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, NOVEMBER 29, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2021-0012 to revise the following section of the Zoning Ordinance:

Section 9.3.11.3 Homestay – amending various sections to revise the standards applicable to a Homestay use, or temporary short-term lodging, in the Town of Leesburg.

Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (MondayFriday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7920 and asking for Michael Watkins, Zoning Administrator. Mr. Watkins can also be reached by email at mwatkins@leesburgva.gov. This Zoning Ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2021-0012.

At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

11/17 & 11/24/2022

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ046340-02-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Zarabella Tucker

Loudoun County Department of Family Services

The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282 and 16.1-281 for Zarabella Tucker.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Jason Tucker, putative father, appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his or her interests on or before December 7, 2022 at 3:00 PM 11/3, 11/10, 11/17 & 11/24/22

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ041604-05-01; JJ043080-03-01

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Diana Gissel Medina Lainez, Gabrielle Medina Lainez

Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v.

Jose Medina, Putative Father

The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Diana Gissel Medina Lainez & Gabrielle Medina Lainez,

It is ORDERED that the defendant Jose Medina, Putative Father appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his interests on or before November 28, 2022 at 10:00 a.m 10/27, 11/3, 11/10 & 11/17/22

ABC LICENSE

Sri Prai Thai LLC trading as Red Bar Sushi & Best Thai Kitchen, 4 E Federal St, Middleburg, VA.

The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Beer Wine & Alcohol license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.

Matta Metzger, Member

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.

11/10 & 11/17/22

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ045875-03-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Joseph Kevin O’Brien

Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v.

Patrick Kevin O’Brien

The object of this suit is to hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Joseph Kevin O’Brien.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Patrick Kevin O’Brien appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before December 13, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.

11/3, 11/10, 11/17 & 11/24/22

Legal Notices

PUBLIC AUCTION

This proceeding is for the judicial sale of real properties located in Loudoun County, Virginia, for payment of delinquent taxes pursuant to the provisions of Virginia Code §§ 58.1-3965, et seq. Pursuant to Orders entered by the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, Virginia, the undersigned Robert J. Sproul, Special Commissioner of Sale of said Court, will offer the real properties described below for sale at public auction to the highest bidder in front of the Loudoun County Courthouse, at 18 East Market Street, in Leesburg, Virginia on: December 6, 2022 3:00 p.m.

RAIN OR SHINE Registration Starts at 2:30 p.m.

TERMS OF

SALE:

1. The sale of any real property is subject to the approval and confirmation by the Circuit Court of Loudoun County.

2. The Special Commissioner of Sale reserves the right to withdraw from sale any property listed and to reject any bid by declaring “NO SALE” after the last bid received on a property.

3. Any person who wishes to bid on any property during the auction must register with County staff before the start of bidding. As part of the registration process, potential bidders must: (i) have suf ficient funds on hand to pay the Minimum Deposit required for each parcel on which they want to bid; and (ii) sign a form certifying that they do not own any property in Loudoun County for which any delinquent taxes are due, or for which there are zoning or other violations.

4. The Minimum Deposit required for each parcel is specified below, as part of the property descrip tion. The full amount of the Minimum Deposit must be paid by cashier’s or certified check made payable to Gary Clemens, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, at the time the auctioneer declares the sale.

5. In lieu of attending the auction, bidders may submit written bids to Robert J. Sproul, Special Commissioner of Sale, at the address listed below. All written bids must be accompanied by the applicable Minimum Deposit, which shall be paid by cashier’s or certified check made payable to Gary Clemens, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County. Written bids must also be accompanied by a certification that the bidder is not the owner of any property in Loudoun County for which delinquent taxes are due, or for which there are zoning or other violations. A written bid form, which includes the required certification, can be obtained from the Special Commissioner of Sale or the Treasurer’s website.

6. Written bids (with the required deposit and certification) will be received by the Special Commis sioner of Sale at any time prior to the date of auction and held under seal until the date of the auc tion. If a written bid exceeds the highest live bid received from the audience during the auction, the audience will have an opportunity to bid against the written bid. If a higher bid is not received from the audience, the Special Commissioner of Sale may declare the sale to the proponent of the highest written bid or may reject all bids by declaring “NO SALE.”

7. If either a written bid or a live auction bid is approved by the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, the balance of the purchase price must be paid in full within 30 days after Court approval.

8. Once a submitted written bid or a live bid has been accepted during the auction, it cannot be with drawn except by leave of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County. Any bidder who attempts to with draw his/her bid after it has been accepted by the Special Commissioners of Sale may be required to forfeit his/her deposit.

9. Properties are offered “as is”, with all faults and without warranties or guarantees either expressed or implied. Prospective bidders should investigate the title on properties prior to bidding. The sale of the properties is not subject to the successful bidders’ ability to obtain title insurance. The sale of the properties is made free and clear only of liens of defendant(s) named in the respective judicial proceeding, and of those liens recorded after the County filed a lis pendens with the Circuit Court of Loudoun County.

10. All recording costs (including but not limited to any grantor’s tax/fee) will be at the expense of the purchaser. All property will be conveyed by Special Warranty Deed from the Special Commissioner of Sale.

11. Announcements made on the day of sale take precedence over any prior verbal or written terms of sale.

The Special Commissioner of Sale represents that information regarding the property to be offered for sale, including acreage, type of improvements, etc., is taken from tax and/or land records, and is not guaranteed for either accuracy or completeness. Bidders are encouraged to make their own investigation to determine the title, condition of improvements, accessibility, and occupancy status of each property and to bid accordingly. The sale will be made subject to matters visible upon inspection, and to restric tions, conditions, rights-of-way and easements, if any, contained in the instruments constituting the chain of title. Any costs incurred by a bidder to inspect or investigate any property are the bidder’s respon sibility and are not reimbursable. The owner of any property listed below may redeem it at any time before the date of the auction by paying all taxes, penalties, interest, costs (including the pro rata costs of publishing this advertisement and attorney’s fees) incurred through the date before the auction. Below is a brief description of each property to be offered for sale at the auction. More detailed information may be obtained by examining the files in the Clerk’s office of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, or by contacting the Special Commissioner of Sale at (703) 777- 0307; or N. Rebekah Long, Deputy Treasurer for Collections at (703) 771-5656.

***************************

THE COUNTY OF LOUDOUN v. NANCY J. LANG, et al. CIVIL ACTION NO. CL 22-4464

LOUDOUN COUNTY TAX MAP NO. 100/P/1P6A-401 PIN 204-25-9192-025

Robert J. Sproul, Special Commissioner of Sale Minimum Deposit Required: $38,730.00

Residential condominium located at 41895 Cathedral Valley Square, Unit 401, Alide, Virginia, and described of record, among the land records of Loudoun County, Virginia as:

Condominium Unit No-A-401, Phase 6, Building A, Centre Park at Stone Ridge Condominium, together with the use of the limited common elements appurtenant thereto, including the use of limited common element garage unit no. A-401, and parking space 28, established by the condo minium instruments recorded on February 26, 2014 as Instrument No. 20140226-0009257, with plat and plans recorded as Instrument No. 20140226-0009258, and as amended in Instrument No. 20141031-0061717, and any and all supplemental declarations and/or amendments recorded subsequent thereto, among the land records of Loudoun County, Virginia.

***************************

THE COUNTY OF LOUDOUN v. UNKNOWN OWNERS. CIVIL ACTION NO. CL 22-5089

LOUDOUN COUNTY TAX MAP NO. /68///4////UK/ PIN 688-45-3782-000

Robert J. Sproul, Special Commissioner of Sale Minimum Deposit Required: $4,271.87

Unimproved land containing 13.22 acres, more or less, with no situs address and otherwise described as being 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 693-196-566-000, 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.

***************************

Robert J. Sproul

Special Commissioner of Sale

Office of County Attorney

1 Harrison Street, S.E. P.O. Box 7000

Leesburg, Virginia 20177-7000 (703) 777-0307

11/10, 11/17, 11/24 & 12/01/22

Loudoun County Public Schools

Fall 2022 Secondary School Attendance Zone

Process for Ashburn, Central Loudoun and Eastern Loudoun

The Loudoun County School Board has scheduled a series of meetings to facilitate the review of Ashburn, Central Loudoun and Eastern Loudoun area secondary school attendance zones. The current boundaries for Broad Run High School/Farmwell Station Middle School, Dominion High School/Sen eca Ridge Middle School, Heritage High School/Harper Park Middle School, Loudoun County High School/J. Lupton Simpson Middle School, Park View High School/Sterling Middle School, Potomac Falls High School/River Bend Middle School, Riverside High School/Belmont Ridge Middle School, Stone Bridge High School/Trailside Middle School and Tuscarora High School/Smart’s Mill Middle School will be reviewed in the attendance zone process.

Thursday, October 13, 2022 6:30 p.m.

School Board Attendance Zone Overview

Tuesday, October 18, 2022 6:30 p.m. Staff Briefing & School Board Attendance Zone Public Hearing

Tuesday, November 1, 2022 6:30 p.m. School Board Attendance Zone Work Session

Wednesday, November 9, 2022 6:30 p.m. Staff Briefing & School Board Attendance Zone Public Hearing

Monday, November 14, 2022 6:30 p.m. School Board Attendance Zone Work Session

Tuesday, November 29, 2022* 6:30 p.m. School Board Review of Secondary School Attendance Zone Recommendations (Information Item)

Tuesday, December 6, 2022 6:30 p.m. Staff Briefing & School Board Attendance Zone Public Hearing

Tuesday, December 13, 2022* 6:30 p.m. School Board Adoption of Secondary School Attendance Zones

*Regular School Board Business Meeting

The meetings will be held at the Loudoun County Public Schools Administration Building (21000 Education Court, Ashburn) and broadcast live on Comcast channel 18 and Verizon Fios channel 43, as well as viewable via simultaneous webcast on the Loudoun County Public Schools website (https:// www.lcps.org/webcast).

Attendance zone information and data, as it becomes available (including potential attendance zone plans being considered or reviewed by the School Board), will be posted on the ‘Fall 2022 – Secondary School Attendance Zone Change Process’ webpage (https://www.lcps.org/Page/246406).

Detail on how to sign up to speak at the hearings is provided at https://www.lcps.org/Page/223425. In-person sign-up will also be available between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., on the evening of each attendance zone public hearing.

Those who need translation/interpretation assistance or a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability in order to participate meaningfully in the School Board meetings or public hearings should contact the Superintendent’s Office at 571-252-1020 at least three (3) days prior to the meeting.

Beverly I. Tate, Director

Loudoun County Public Schools

Division of Planning & GIS Services

21000 Education Court, Ashburn, Virginia 20148

Telephone: 571-252-1050

Email: LCPSPLAN@LCPS.ORG

10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1 & 12/8/22

11/17/22

Date Time Secondary School Attendance Zone Meeting

Opinion

Building on the Vision

Depending on whom you talk with, the vision for extending a rail line to Dulles Airport and beyond can be traced back to the airport’s opening 60 years ago; to forward-thinking planning 30 years ago; or to a single, tense Board of Supervisors vote on a July day in 2012.

And depending on whom you talk with, the Silver Line extension will be region’s greatest economic development catalyst in six decades or the greatest boondoggle certain to drive the area into financial ruin.

To the astoundment of many, the trains are running. The debates about the merits of spending billions of dollars on the project are over.

Now the challenge is making the best use of this new transportation tool and capitalizing

on the extraordinary investment. That includes sophisticated community planning that makes the best use of the land along the rail line, a limited resource that must not be squandered. It also means marketing the county as a workplace destination, expanding the pool of desperately needed employees to help existing businesses complete their post-pandemic recovery.

Like any asset, the value of the Silver Line will be determined by stewardship of its trustees. Its impact on future generations will be guided by decisions made by local leaders today—and in the months and years ahead. Will their actions be viewed as visionary 10 or 30 or 60 years from now? That is the standard against which decisions should be measured. n

LETTERS to the Editor

Onward

Editor:

Thank you, Leesburg, for electing me as your next Town Council member. I learned many things from meeting you, stopping at local businesses, and connecting with the families that call Leesburg home.

Here are the top three takeaways I have from our conversations: first, you really love this town—just like I do. And when it comes to areas where there’s room for improvement, you have some great ideas and solutions, and as elected officials, we should be listening to you.

The other thing that struck me was that we’re poised at the intersection of the past and the future. The best part of campaigning was meeting the people of Leesburg at their door or on the street and listening to their stories. Many of

you are from a long line of town residents; but many others, like me, chose Leesburg as the place to settle and raise your families even without previous ties to the area. Our vibrant history and forward-looking optimism are a great combination and the source of much of our strength.

Finally, you’ve told me over and over again that you want a town government that exists without disrupting your lives, but that seamlessly delivers the public goods and services you pay for with your tax dollars. Leesburg residents are practical and elected me to use common sense when sitting on the town council.

Over the next four years, I hope to make you proud of voting for me. And if you didn’t vote for me, I still want to represent your perspective on Town Council. I spoke to so many people about what they would

like to see in Leesburg. Please, continue to reach out and let me know your issues, and concerns, and how I can be of assistance. I ran because I want to help you solve your issues and get answers, and I’ll do that type of work for everyone in Leesburg.

Over the next year, I will be listening to you, and learning more about how to most effectively do my job. I will work on my campaign promises of workforce and affordable housing, traffic alleviation, increasing the tree canopy, and an entrepreneurial incubator. My door is always open if you need anything at all. You can contact me on either of my Town Council pages on Facebook or Instagram, or my town email, tciminojohnson@leesburgva.gov.

Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor - nstyer@loudounnow.com

EDITORIAL

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PO Box 207 Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723

Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com

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What

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.

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION:

Never hesitate to reach out. Onward we go.

—

Todd Cimino-Johnson, Leesburg

Optimistic

Editor:

Access to the internet at broadband speeds is an essential tool for everyday modern life and success in business. Lack of broadband service in Loudoun County has been an issue for far too long and has negatively impacted businesses and families in the county even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Loudoun Broadband Alliance is monitoring the project undertaken by the county and All Points Broadband to ensure the promised goals are met. The report given by county staff and Mr. Carr during the Nov. 1 Board of Supervisors meeting helped to clarify the project timeline and other details. County residents, however, continue to ask that All Points Broadband and the county provide insight into the order in which fiber service areas will be built.

Clearly, we wish this project had started much sooner, but we appreciate the county’s efforts over the past 24 months

to address this issue on a comprehensive basis. The Loudoun Broadband Alliance is optimistic that this public-private partnership coupled with county-urged expansions by Comcast and Verizon, and other fiber internet builds, like those undertaken by the Town of Hillsboro, by Cladded Glass and other ISPs, will eliminate the broadband gap in Loudoun County by the end of 2024.

— Kevin A. Noll, Co-Founder, President Loudoun Broadband Alliance

The actions of the CA’s staff are those of the CA alone and not her party, but the silence from the party that seems to follow these continued errors speaks volumes.

— Christopher McHale, Potomac Falls

Irreplaceable

Editor:

The current Loudoun Zoning Ordinance does not adequately protect our mountain resources from over-development.

• Zoning Enforcement – The established processes for enforcing the zoning ordinance in the mountains are weak and penalties for violations substandard. The penalties associated with violating the zoning ordinance should be sufficient to act as a deterrent. Furthermore, in cases of serious environmental damage the violator must be required to return the land to its original condition (prior to the violation).

Silence

Editor:

The murder charges were dropped against Abdul Waheed as a result of another error from the CA’s office. This is not someone on trial for shop lifting or drunk in public but first-degree murder.

The issue first arose when two “expert” witnesses were disqualified from giving expert testimony because of a missed deadline by the CA’s office. Now this guy is back on the streets of Loudoun as a result.

Will the CA take responsibility, or will she again try to blame the Sherriff’s Office? Will anyone from the Board of Supervisors speak out against the CA? Will any candidates running for office who are being supported by the Democratic Party speak out against the CA?

Following careful analysis of the draft ordinance, which was circulated for public comment in the spring/summer of 2022, we have four major concerns:

• Inadequate Definition – The definition of the Mountain Overlay District must be broadened to include the whole contiguous mountain area, from base to summit.

• Too Many Permitted Uses – Many of the permitted uses could cause significant parking, noise, lighting, and waste disposal issues in sensitive mountain environments. It is especially important that such negative impacts are considered when determining “by right” uses.

• Development and Performance Standards – Additional environmental standards or considerations are needed to evaluate proposed development in the mountains and protect their natural resources.

During the public review process that concluded on July 18, our organizations and members, as well as many independent Loudoun County residents, submitted detailed comments echoing these concerns through the formal comment process established by the county.

With this letter we want to again reiterate our concerns and express our strong hope that the next version of the Zoning Ordinance will provide adequate zoning protections for our irreplaceable natural assets. Also, many thanks to the Loudoun Board of Supervisors and county staff for their continued work on this challenging and lengthy rewrite process.

—Peter Weeks, President, Friends of the Blue Ridge Mountains Piedmont Environmental Council

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Blue Ridge Mountains Civic Association

Save Rural Loudoun

Silver Line opens

train into Dulles Airport pulled into the station about four years behind the orig inal schedule.

“There were people that didn’t believe in Metro, and but there were many that did, and you have to weigh the pros and the cons, but in the end infrastructure goes a long ways in making many other things happen, including especially land use and how it’s going to develop,” he said.

“It may seem like a no-brainer to ev erybody here, but let me tell you that at the time it was not a sure thing,” Super visor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said.

He is the only board member remaining from that 2012 vote, and now also serves on the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority—or Metro—board. He also saw pushback after that vote. He re called being dubbed “Metro Matt,” along side Buona’s “Railway Ralph” by Silver Line critics.

“When we you’re trying to talk about what we want Loudoun County to be, you have to have big ideas, and you have to actually stick with it and want to execute it,” he said. “And it does take political fortitude, and it takes perseverance, and it takes time, but eventually you can get there. And this is just the next step.”

Buona, who has since moved out of state, returned to ride the first train on the tracks. The Silver Line ends at Ashburn Station, yards away from the Loudoun Station mixed-use development with much more development planned nearby now that service has begun. He said that kind of economic development is why he voted yes in 2012.

“Most people think of it as transporta tion first, it’s really everything that comes with it,” he said.

Letourneau agreed bringing Metro to Loudoun was an economic development decision. He and Metro General Manager Randy Clarke both pointed to increased property values and tax revenues around Metro stops, reflected in property values around Loudoun’s Metro stops far out pacing the growth in values elsewhere in the county even before the stops opened. Letourneau said since 2013, those par cels have grown in value by 168%, 100% higher than the rest of the county.

“When you talk to big companies, site selectors, developers, they want to be transit-accessible. That’s where the future is. So for us to have Metro opens up a world of possibilities for us,” Letourneau said.

And he said Metrorail can bring a younger workforce into Loudoun who

live in other parts of the region, and who he said are more likely to take transit.

“If you talk to the business community here, that’s what they need. You know, we have a lot of CEOs in Loudoun County— we need some folks to fill in the rest of the company,” he said. “And a lot of those folks are people that might live in other places in the region and they’re not going to get in the car and drive here and pay the toll, but they will get on a Metro train. And I’m hoping our business community can really take advantage of that.”

Loudoun County Chamber of Com merce President and CEO Tony Howard said the Metro line should be a boon not only for new development opportunities, but also to help the area’s existing busi nesses, especially those clamoring for workers.

“I think it is going to be additive to the county’s workforce needs. It makes us more accessible to the rest of the region,” he said. “Anything we can do to make Loudoun more accessible to the regional workforce is a benefit.”

But, he acknowledged, there will be challenges as well.

“The world has changed quite a bit in the past 10 years. With fewer people not going back to the office, it remains to be seen how we as a region can reinvent Metro,” Howard said.

On July 3, 2012, one day before the deadline for the Board of Supervisors to commit to—or abandon—the rail project, then-Supervisor Ken Reid, representing the Leesburg District, was viewed as the

critical swing vote. Reid was a skeptic of the massive rail project, but the tax district financing plan developed by the county staff helped win his vote to move it forward.

Ten years later, he said that concept is holding up, with properties along the rail line generating enough tax revenue to cover the county’s operation and mainte nance obligations.

“This idea that people have that they are afraid it’s going to rob the General Fund or whatever is not necessarily going to happen, even if Metro gets into serious problems. And they are having serious problems,” Reid said Tuesday.

“That’s why I opted in. I had the Lees burg Town Council that wanted it. I had constituents in Leesburg giving me a hard time—including Republicans,” he said. “The tax district pays for itself. The rest of the county is not going to have to pay for it, even if data centers go south, po tentially.”

Executive Director of Economic De velopment Buddy Rizer noted it had been six years since he moved his department’s office to Loudoun Station prepare for the Silver Line opening.

In the world of business recruiting, access to mass transit opens a lot more doors, he said.

“This puts us in a whole new game,” Rizer said.

A Long Wait

Both of Virginia’s senators in Con gress celebrated the occasion Tuesday and recalled the long road to get there. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) working on the Dulles rail project while serving on the Commonwealth Transportation Board in 1991 during fights over the toll road and access road to the airport—“Mr. Sec retary, I did some research, you were in the third grade,” he said to Buttigieg.

And Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), who was Virginia governor when Metro broke ground on the previous Silver Line ex tension in 2009, recalled the long fight to

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

VIPs attending Tuesday’s Silver Line ribbon-cutting ceremony board the escalators at the Dulles Airport Station to take the first official ride on the new rail line.

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Former Loudoun County supervisor Ralph Buona joined his former colleagues at the ribbon cutting ceremonies for Metro’s Silver Line extension Tuesday, Nov. 15.

Silver Line opens

start that work, facing opposition from the George W. Bush administration and some members of the Virginia General Assembly.

“To get there, I was sued by members of the General Assembly. I think some of them might even be here taking credit along with me,” he said.

Metro’s opening Tuesday was four years behind its original schedule.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority took over building the second phase in exchange for taking over the Dulles Toll Road, and delivered Metro four years behind schedule and hundreds of millions of dollars over the original $2.8 billion budget amid repeated setbacks and construction quality problems.

Meanwhile, Metro suffered persistent problems on its existing system after long years of neglected maintenance, and a sometimes difficult relationship with the independent Washington Metrorail Safety Commission, which oversaw its efforts to bring the system and trains back up to par. The Silver Line’s opening looked likely to suffer one last delay after the commission in October rejected Metro’s plan to return to service its new 7000-series trains that had been sidelined because of potential defects in their axles. But on Oct. 25, the commission signed off on a revised plan with an intensive schedule of inspections, and Metro announced trains would run to Ashburn by Thanksgiving, shortly fol lowed by an official opening date.

The ribbon cuttings Tuesday at the Dulles Airport and Ashburn stops marked

School construction

building provides students access to what they need for their instruction. He said safety is another factor, and they look closely at access and opportunity.

“We want to make sure our buildings and campuses have equal access for the different things. All of our buildings built years ago don’t have the same features as the newer buildings so those are the things we look at to come up to speed,” Lewis said.

Lewis spoke about amendments made to the FY23 CIP which changed Park View from a renovation project to a re placement. He pointed out one project from FY23, ES-32 in Dulles South had been expedited with help from the Board of Supervisors and will now open in the fall of 2024. Lewis said ES-32 will bring

County Launches Silver Line Bus Routes, Stops

Loudoun County has begun phasing in the largest update to its transit system in more than a decade with the opening of Metrorail’s Silver Line extension into Loudoun on Nov. 15.

The county plans 21 new Silver Line bus routes and 156 new bus stops.

Facing a driver shortage, the coun ty will initially provide limited bus

service, and some routes will be served by vans. Service could be further im pacted if Loudoun Transit workers strike as part of their ongoing battle with county contractor Keolis.

The new bus routes will take pas sengers to and from the Ashburn and Loudoun Gateway stations in Loudoun County, and to and from the Innova tion and Reston Town Center stations in Fairfax County. Paratransit bus ser vice with ADA-accessible buses is also available within three quarters of a mile of all the new routes.

For details about each route, in

the beginning of passenger service to six new stations, including three in Loudoun. Between the Dulles Airport and Ashburn stops is Loudoun Gateway Station, near the intersection of the Dulles Greenway and Route 606.

New parking garages were also built near the Ashburn and Loudoun Gateway stations, with parking rates at $4.95 a day or $65 a month for a reserved space.

In Fairfax, new stations opened at Res ton Town Center, Herndon and Innovation Center.

The extension also includes what will be the largest rail yard in the system, the 90-acre Dulles Rail Yard on airport prop erty, which is expected to employ nearly 700 people.

To learn more about current Met ro routes and schedules, buy or reload a SmarTrip fare card, or download the SmarTrip app, go to wmata.com. n

cluding the location of bus stops, times of routes and maps of routes, go to loudoun.gov/silverlinebusroutes.

Additionally, the Broadlands and Loudoun Station park and ride lots close permanently on Nov. 16. Find other lots at loudoun.gov/facilities.

Regular updates will be post ed at loudoun.gov/buschanges, and riders can sign up for alerts at loudoun.gov/rideralerts.

Riders can also plan their trip using Metro’s Trip Planner at wmata.com/tripplanner, which includes both Metrorail and bus service. n

relief to Hovatter Elementary, which opened already overcrowded. Other proj ects from FY23’s CIP; ES-36 an MS-19 and an Eastern Transportation Facility are being delayed.

Lewis, who has been working with the school division since 2000, said it costs more now to design a school than it did to design, build and furnish a school at that time. He said inflation over the past 22 years has been significant and noted the past six months to a year have been extremely significant.

Lewis noted recent bids on MS-14 came in 20% above the estimated cost, and the student welcome center came in over 60% over the estimate.

Lewis also pointed out that schools that were built between 1993 and 2012 are coming up on their 20- to 30-year life cycle, which he said means those build ings are now costing more to maintain.

Lewis noted that in the FY23 CIP, it

was recommended that Park View have renovation work, this year’s CIP recom mends it be replaced. He said the school is 46 years old and has challenges other schools, even ones as old as Park View, don’t have such as very thin walls—less than three inches thick—that affect in structional needs.

“As you prepare for the conversation about the capital facility renewal and al teration projects, there were a number of projects we had to move out to be able to afford some of these things. Some of the miscellaneous projects identified last year were moved out to the out years to be able to afford the critical nature of seats for students, instructional environment and safety,” Lewis said.

Morse agreed that the maintenance in schools 20-30 years old is a huge cost and something they were going to have to continue to address.

Morse said the bigger concern is the

half billion-dollar price tag they would be approaching the Board of Supervisors with for FY 2025, and wanted to know if they were prepared for such a high number.

Lewis assured Morse that county su pervisors were aware of the scale of the school division’s construction plans.

“Just seeing that number for the first time, I’ve never seen anything over $250 million and it is a shocker,” Morse said.

Design and construction of the new Park View High School won’t begin un less the FY24 budget is approved. Ac cording to Lewis at a Nov. 10 public input meeting on Park View, construction could start in the summer of 2024 or late 2025. It will open fall 2027.

There will be public hearings and work sessions on the CIP on Nov. 28 and Dec. 5 at 6:30. The board is scheduled to adopt its construction plan Dec. 13. n

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks the opening ceremonies for Metro’s Silver Line extension at the Dulles International Airport stop Tuesday, Nov. 15.

s t L I S T E D L I S T E D

T h i s p r o p e r t y o f f e r s a l o v e l y 4 b e d r o o m h o m e o n 5 f e n c e d a c r e s r i g h t i n t h e h e a r t o f h o r s e c o u n t r y a n d i n t h e P i e d m o n t F o x H u n t t e r r i t o r y . I n c r e d i b l e v i e w s c a n n o t b e m i s s e d w h i l e w a l k i n g o u t t o c a t c h y o u r h o r s e i n t h e f r o n t p a d d o c k , o r p l a y i n g b a l l w i t h t h e k i d s o r d o g i n t h e f r o n t y a r d . T h i s c h a r m i n g c o l o n i a l s t y l e h o m e i s s u r r o u n d e d b y 3 l u s h g r e e n p a d d o c k s w i t h b l a c k b o a r d f e n c i n g , a r i d i n g r i n g , t w o s h e d r o w b a r n s t o t a l i n g 3 t o 5 s t a l l s , a n d a r u n i n s h e d S o m e i n t e r i o r f e a t u r e s i n c l u d e 2 f u l l y f i n i s h e d l e v e l s o f l i v i n g s p a c e , b e a u t i f u l r e f i n i s h e d h a r d w o o d f l o o r s , a n d f r e s h p a i n t t h r o u g h o u t . L o t s o f w i n d o w s t h a t p r o v i d e t o n s o f n a t u r a l l i g h t a n d f a r m v i e w s i n e v e r y d i r e c t i o n ! S o m e a d d i t i o n a l o u t d o o r f e a t u r e s i n c l u d e a 2 c a r a t t a c h e d g a r a g e , a d o l l h o u s e , a f e n c e d d o g y a r d , a n d a 2 s i d e d p o r c h w i t h s t u n n i n g m o u n t a i n v i e w s f r o m b o t h s i d e s ! S o m e u p d a t e s i n c l u d e n e w H V A C o n t h e l o w e r l e v e l , a n e w h o t w a t e r h e a t e r , a n e w w e l l w a t e r t a n k , a w a t e r f i l t r a t i o n s y s t e m , a n e w f r o n t w a l k w a y , f r e s h p a i n t o n t h e 3 b o a r d f e n c e , s m a r t l o c k s , n e w l i g h t f i x t u r e s , a n e w r e f r i g e r a t o r , a n i s l a n d c o u n t e r t o p , a n e w g a r a g e d o o r , a n d n e w p l u m b i n g f i x t u r e s t h r o u g h o u t T h e s e t t i n g i s i n c r e d i b l y t r a n q u i l t o o !

Y O U R D R E A M H O M E W I T H M I L L I O N D O L L A R V I E W S A W A I T S .