Loudoun Now for April 2, 2020

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VOL. 5, NO. 20

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APRIL 2, 2020

Middleburg Offers $182K Financial Relief Package

BY PATRICK SZABO

pszabo@loudounnow.com

290 in Virginia. Those numbers lag the actual number of people currently infected with the virus, which is unknown because of limited testing and the gap of time—up

The Town of Middleburg will spend nearly $182,000 to help its residents, restaurants and nonprofits during a time of financial uncertainty.

The Town Council Thursday night voted unanimously to approve a four-piece financial relief package that will provide the town’s nearly 500 utility customers with $200 credits, provide residents with $20 meal vouchers, give restaurants more time to remit money collected via the 4-percent meals tax and contribute $16,750 to three area nonprofit organizations—all in an effort to stimulate the local economy and offer financial help amid the COVID-19 pandemic that has shuttered businesses and left many people out of work.

The total $181,750 will be pulled from the town’s Health Center Fund, which was established to fund charitable efforts in the community. According to the draft Fiscal Year 2021 budget, that fund’s total net position was $891,229 as of June 30, 2019. Mayor Bridge Littleton said the town would pay the money back over the next two to three years.

In addition to vowing to not shut water service off for customers who can’t pay their bills, and to waive associated late fees, the town will also credit utility customers $200 on their May utility bills. That is

STAY HOME continues on page 31

MIDDLEBURG RELIEF continues on page 21

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Round Hill Elementary schoolers held signs for their teachers as a line of 75 school staffers drove slowly along Evening Star Drive in their personal cars, which they adorned with “We Miss You” sentiments during a Friday afternoon parade. It was a scene repeated throughout the county, and the country, followimg school closures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus.

COVID-19 Infections Climb as Officials Push Isolation

According to figures released Tuesday, as of Monday evening, there were 87 reThe fight to slow the spread of ported cases of COVID-19 in Loudoun COVID-19 ramped up again Monday and 1,250 across the state, a jump of 26 when Gov. Ralph Northam issued a stay- in Loudoun and 230 in Virginia from the at-home order as state and local leaders day before. A week before, there had only braced for an expected surge in infections. been 18 reported cases in Loudoun and LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT

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Longtime Teacher is the First Local COVID-19 Death

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

A Loudoun County Department of Digital Innovation employee hands a Chromebook to a parent on Wednesday at Brambleton Middle School.

School Staff Distributes 11K Chromebooks, Readies for Online Learning

BY PATRICK SZABO pszabo@loudounnow.com

Thousands of Loudoun County public school students in grades 3-12 are getting the Chromebooks they’ll need to finish out their school years at home.

Staffers from the school system’s Department of Digital Innovation last week and this week distributed more than 11,400 Chromebooks to students for the distance learning curriculum they’ll be using to learn from now until the close of the school year in June.

Last Wednesday, 450 students were registered to pick up their Chromebooks at Brambleton Middle School—as part of a 7- to 10-day distribution planned at two middle schools and 14 elementary schools.

Superintendent Eric Williams made it to Brambleton to help hand out some of the laptops to parents as they drove through the kiss and ride area out front of the school.

While the county school system had already planned to distribute laptops to all students in grades 3-12, and has already distributed many of them, that initiative

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Loudoun County Public Schools Superintendent Eric Williams hands a Chromebook to a parent on Wednesday at Brambleton Middle School, as part of the final phase of the school system’s Chromebook rollout.

was expedited earlier this month because of the likelihood that schools would be closed to protect against the spread of COVID-19. Gov. Ralph Northam has since mandated that all Virginia schools close for the remainder of this school year.

The closures prompted the School Board last month to use $5 million in surplus funding from its health care account to fund the final phase of the Chromebook rollout, which had been scheduled for the 2020-2021 school year. On March 10, the school system ordered the addi-

tional Chromebooks.

Students will use the laptops to learn virtually, mainly via Google Classroom.

On Monday, teachers began offering learning activities—mainly review exercises—for students and parents to work on at home. Starting April 15, after a few more training sessions, teachers are planning to ramp up efforts to teach new subject matter and begin some live online classes.

Eventually, those exercises are expected to include formal assessment and grading, but school leaders locally and statewide are still debating how to implement that.

So far, administrators plan to give third quarter grades based on work completed through March 11, the last day students attended schools, with those grades to be finalized April 24. It is anticipated that there will be no formally-reported fourth period grades for work completed during the closure. There are a number of options in play to determine year-end grades, including pass/fail assessments in some circumstances.

Already, state leaders have secured waivers for federally-mandated tests, and state Standards of Learning tests are expected to be dropped, as well. n

As predicted for months, the wave of COVID-19 infections is growing and the tragic aspects of the worldwide pandemic are beginning to hit.

In Loudoun, that happened March 25 when a longtime public school educator became the first county resident to die from the disease. Over the weekend, a second coronavirus death was reported, a resident at the Falcons Landing retirement community in Cascades. The name of that individual was not released.

Susan Rokus, 73, was a retired Loudoun County teacher who returned to work as a PALS reading tutor at two Ashburn elementary schools.

While those in the school system mourned the loss of Rokus a respected educator and mentor, friends and family members were struck by the suddenness of the loss of someone who was healthy and energic just days earlier.

A Pennsylvania native, Rokus moved to Loudoun after graduating from Salem University. She started as a first-grade teacher at Round Hill Elementary School in 1969 and remained in the classroom for more than three decades. For some, she had a multi-generational impact, teaching the children and grandchildren of her former students.

Her retirement in 2014 was short-lived, as she returned to help tutor students. Outside the classroom, she was known for her love of tennis, practicing her faith at St. John Catholic Church in Leesburg and her deep love for and knowledge of Loudoun County, friends and family members said.

During a moment of silence during Tuesday’s School Board meeting, she was remembered as a “friend to all” and a “pillar of the community.”

“It is with great sadness that I relay the news that Susan Rokus, a longtime teacher and champion of our local schools, passed away last night,” School Board member Jeff Morse (Dulles) wrote in a Facebook post. “Her service has been so broad and expansive, serving multiple generations of Loudoun Students at schools including the old Arcola, Little River, Liberty, and Pinebrook. Last year she was honored by Little FIRST DEATH continues on page 7

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APRIL 2, 2020

Loudoun

Joint School Board, Supervisors Committee to Focus on Cooperation

BY RENSS GREENE

rgreene@loudounnow.com

The Joint School Board/Board of Supervisors Committee, a long-standing but previously seldom-meeting committee made up of members from both bodies, has laid out its goals for the new term.

In years past, the committee was scheduled to meet quarterly, and those meetings were sometimes cancelled.

But at their first meeting since the 2019 local elections, the new members laid out a set of goals to bring the two boards—and the two administrations—closer together.

Last Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors signed off on a work plan for the joint committee. Those discussions will include examining several ideas for combining their operations—such as joint contracting, joint land acquisition, shared office space, and jointly administering insurance plans between the county government and school system.

One idea in particular would be to bring members of the two bodies closer together—the possibility of shared district offices, in which supervisors and School Board members would get office space in county-owned buildings in or near their districts.

“Some board members, especially the eastern district members, were interested in having district offices if the county could afford it,” said committee co-chair

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) at a meeting of the Joint School Board/Board of Supervisors Committee, which she co-chairs.

Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg). School Board members started approaching supervisors interested in having a space, too.

However, she said, that is still just an idea, and a long way off from happening for now.

“This is not going to happen, obviously, in this upcoming budget year, because of COVID-19 and the impact on the economy,” Umstattd said. “I don’t expect it to

happen the next year either, and we’ll just have to see what happens after that.” And even though she said she was “skeptical we’ll have the financial ability to do it within this board’s term,” she said the offices could be placed within other county facilities, and doing so would bring Loudoun more in line with Fairfax and Prince William Counties.

Supervisors, in turn, would like the school system to allow school staff mem-

bers to attend meetings attended by county supervisors. Umstattd said she first became aware of the policy through Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) and County Administrator Tim Hemstreet.

Umstattd said she learned that Superintendent Eric Williams does not allow school staff to attend community meetings with county supervisors, for fear they would be perceived to be speaking for the School Board.

“Our perspective on the Board of Supervisors side is that there are issues where it would be really helpful to have, for example, someone from school transportation there, because if we’re thinking about putting in a crosswalk for safety, where’s the best location?” Umstattd said.

And supervisors would like to be briefed on the school system’s annual budget work earlier in the process, Umstattd said. She suggested Williams could brief the Board of Supervisors nearer the time he gives School Board members their first briefings on budget work.

“I have found in general, in government, the earlier you can educate elected officials as to what is coming, the better it is, the more they can begin to mentally plan for whatever the needs are.” Umstattd said.

The joint committee, like most committees during the COVID-19 pandemic, will have to wait a little longer to start on those goals. Its next quarterly meeting, on April 13, has already been cancelled. n

Supervisors Pass Electronic Meetings Rule Amid Emergency

BY RENSS GREENE

rgreene@loudounnow.com

County supervisors held an emergency meeting Wednesday, March 25 to pass an ordinance allowing them to hold remote meetings during the national, state and local state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In normal times, The Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires a quorum of members of a public body to be physically present in the room to conduct business, and to make the meeting open and accessible to the public. Under the emergency ordinance, public bodies, including the Board of Supervisors, the Planning Commission and other

board-appointed government panels, do not need a quorum of members to be physically present; however those meetings must be made open to the public to participate in-person or electronically.

County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said his staff members are working now to start a way for the public to participate in meetings electronically, which should be ready “in the next week or so.”

Those other appointed bodies are suspended whenever schools are closed; however, with schools closed for the long term, supervisors have discussed bringing some back to meet. Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) suggested bodies such as the Transit Advisory Board, Community Services Board or

Housing Advisory Board come back.

“Those guidelines were written because we thought it would be a blizzard, or we thought school would be closed at the most a week or so, but they weren’t really intended when they were written to be for months and months and months,” Randall said. “Since the schools are closed for months, there are some committees that we might want to have meet.”

However, County Administrator Tim Hemstreet cautioned that holding regular meetings of those committees would overtax county staff members—“we’re extremely thin right now.”

The School Board may also now vote to incorporate the emergency ordinance

so that it may also meet electronically.

The ordinance also relaxes some timelines on the county government, including how quickly county staff members must respond to Freedom of Information Act requests, as the government grapples with both an emergency response and limited staffing during social distancing protocols.

Earlier this week, Attorney General Mark Herring issued guidance to public officials on holding those electronic meetings, cautioning them that not every meeting should be held electronically—instead, where possible, public bodREMOTE MEETINGS continues on page 5

APRIL 2, 2020

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Passengers unload from a Loudoun County Commuter Services bus at the Broadland park-and-ride lot.

Loudoun Parks Commuter Buses, Local Transportation Fares Waived

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com

Loudoun’s commuter buses have been temporarily suspended, other bus service has been reduced and fares have been waived for at least the next two months as the county’s transit system adapts to life in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bus service to Rosslyn, Crystal City, the Pentagon and Washington, DC was suspended on Monday and all Metro Connection routes will operate with reduced service or be suspended. Fares are being waived on local fixed route and Metro Connection buses as passengers are loaded through the rear door rather than the front for the safety of the drivers. The fare collection device is at the front of the bus, next to the driver.

Currently, there are no changes to Loudoun’s fixed route service, although a county press release noted that alterations may be recommended as more ridership data is collected and analyzed.

The changes are in effect for at least 60 days.

There will be reduced service on Metro Connection services for Routes 901 and 902, serving Potomac Falls to Ballston Metrorail Station; Routes 923 and 924, serving

Remote meetings continued from page 4 ies should delay their business until they are able to meet in person again.

Herring wrote public bodies can meet electronically if “the purpose of the meeting is to address the emergency,” which

Goose Creek Village/Broadlands to Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station; Routes 925 and 926, serving Loudoun Station to Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station; and Route 88X, serving Dulles South/East Gate to Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station.

Routes 921 and 922, serving Harmony/ Leesburg to Wiehle-Reston East, are suspended.

Supervisors unanimously approved the changes at a March 25 emergency meeting, and gave County Administrator Tim Hemstreet the authority to make further changes without first waiting for another board meeting.

“What I do want is the ability to modify the fare or modify the service consistent with what the rest of the region does without having to come to the board first,” Hemstreet said.

As the county’s director of Emergency Management, the County Attorney’s Office opined, Hemstreet has that authority during a state of emergency. Supervisors would then later vote on whether to ratify his actions at their next meeting.

Over the coming weeks, Loudoun County Transit managers will continue to monitor ridership and services for possible additional changes. Service and schedule changes will be posted at loudoun.gov/buschanges. n includes meeting “to make decisions that must be made immediately and where failure to do so could result in irrevocable public harm.”

Supervisors will hold a public hearing on the ordinance, which as an emergency ordinance is already in effect, on April 15.

Supervisors approved the emergency ordinance unanimously. n

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No $78K Gov’t Boost for Museum Revamp

BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com

Loudoun supervisors have declined a request to give the Loudoun Museum a $78,000 boost this year, on top of the financial support the county already supplies the nonprofit.

The county government currently provides the museum with $156,000 a year subject to certain performance metrics and milestones. The agreement came about in 2016 amid increasing frustration among supervisors about county bailouts to keep the then-flagging museum afloat.

Since then, the Loudoun Museum has revamped with new staff, a new board of trustees, new bookkeeping and strategic planning, and new exhibits and efforts to raise money and get the word out into the community.

That county funding was approved each year, as the museum continues to meet the requirements of the agreement, which have also included goals like increasing fundraising by a third.

Now, supervisors are beginning a new 10-year agreement with the museum with similar requirements, starting at $156,000 a year and increasing by three percent each year thereafter.

According to a letter to County Administrator Tim Hemstreet from Board of Trustees President and Chairwoman Sharon Virts, that amounts to about 30 percent of what is needed overall for museum operations.

But the county board did not approve a one-time $78,000 boost to support revamping the museum’s exhibit space.

Leesburg District Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D) said the county board has “entered a whole new time period in which our priorities need to shift very carefully.”

pszabo@loudounnow.com

Election Day in the towns of Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, Purcellville and Round Hill on May 5 might go down as the most sparsely attended in western Loudoun history.

The Virginia Department of Elections and the Loudoun County Office of Elections and Voter Registration are encour-

Lovettsville’s May 5 Election Polling Place Moved to Game Club

BY PATRICK SZABO pszabo@loudounnow.com

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

The Loudoun Museum is preparing for a capital campaign to revamp its exhibit space.

“As much as I enjoy the Loudoun Museum, when the new [Loudoun Museum Board of Directors] … started, there was a lot of optimism that they would turn around the museum’s finances and be successful at fundraising,” Umstattd said. “… This amount is something that they probably should have been able to raise themselves.”

The Loudoun Museum is simultaneously launching a capital campaign and asking the Town of Leesburg for an extended lease, from five years to 10— which it currently gets for a token price of a dollar a year.

The $78,000, Virts said, was to support the museum’s outreach and education efforts while its director, Joe Rizzo, oversees the work of that capital campaign and of renovating the museum’s space. After that work ends, she said, the full-time outreach position would be maintained and supported by the museum’s other fundraising efforts.

“I can’t go out and ask you to give me money for building a new exhibit hall

and then say, oh, and by the way, can you stroke me a check for the operations,” Virts said.

She pointed out it was a relatively small capital campaign, with a target of $269,000 by the end of Fiscal Year 2021.

And while the museum did not get the $78,000 trustees hoped for, Virts said the museum will get by. And the larger impact right now, she said, is the COVID-19 pandemic that has closed the museum and shut down fundraising events for nonprofits. The museum is among the gathering spaces ordered closed until April 23 by Governor Ralph Northam.

“I’m not losing sleep over it, and especially now with what’s going on,” Virts said. “We’ll get by, we’ll do OK, it just may mean that the project itself is going to slow down.”

Virts said, “it took us a long time to reach this turning point.”

“It was going well, and I think it will continue to go well once we get through this, get back open, but we’ll weather it,” Virts said. n

Absentee Ballots Encouraged in May Town Elections

BY PATRICK SZABO

APRIL 2, 2020

aging residents to vote absentee in the May 5 municipal elections to avoid potential exposure to COVID-19. According to both, qualified voters may request absentee ballots using Reason Code “2A My disability or illness.”

In-person absentee voting opened last Friday and will continue until 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at the Office of Elections headquarters, at 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C in Leesburg. The last day to request a ballot through the mail is Tues-

day, April 28.

To request an absentee ballot by mail, apply online at elections.virginia.gov/ absentee or contact the county Office of Elections at 703-777-0380 or vote@ loudoun.gov. The office will send application forms to those who request them within three days. Residents may submit applications via email to vote@loudoun. gov, fax to 703-777-0622 or mail to the Office of Elections. n

The Loudoun County Office of Elections and Voter Registration has moved Lovettsville’s polling place for the May 5 town elections from the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Station to the Game Protective Association.

Registrar Judy Brown said that decision was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has closed fire departments to anyone aside from essential personnel.

Brown said her staff had looked into offering curbside voting outside the fire station but decided against it so that election officers would not be forced to brave the elements all day. She said no more than 10 people at a time will be allowed in the Game Club on election day, including election officers.

The town’s polling place has been located in the Lovettsville Community Center for many years. That location was moved in January to the fire station to keep voters out of the way of ongoing construction work at the community center.

Brown said her office is encouraging residents to vote absentee in the May elections—which will see voters head to the polls in Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, Purcellville and Round Hill. She said 326 of the 9,523 registered voters in those five towns have requested ballots via the mail so far.

As for the potential Republican presidential primary on June 9 and the Nov. 3 presidential election, Brown said her office has received no direction yet and is unsure how elections might look at that point.

One issue to navigate regarding those elections is the location of the polling place for voters in precinct 305—the Philomont Firehouse, which also currently can’t be used as a polling place. Brown said that by June, when the weather is nicer, curbside voting might become an option there.

Another concern the elections office is dealing with relates to the age of its election officers. Many of them are 65 years of age or older, which puts them at greater risk to contract the coronavirus.

For more information on upcoming elections, go to loudoun.gov/elections-voter-registration or call the elections office at 703-777-0380. n

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APRIL 2, 2020

First death continued from page 3 River Principal Kevin Murphy as one of the core leaders of the school when it first opened 20 years ago. A teacher to many, a tutor to some, but a friend to the entire community, Susan’s legacy will continue for generations to come.”

In an email sent to teachers and parents, Superintendent Eric Williams offered comfort and some suggestions to help students.

“The interfaith concept of Love of Neighbor, endorsed by many religious and non-religious people alike, will lead many of us to grieve her loss, even if we did not know her,” Williams wrote. “We know that she is not a statistic, nor a number. I am not sharing her name or specific remembrances because it is my sense that she would prefer it that way, but she is someone who loved and was loved.”

While not many details have been made public about the 87 county residents known to have contracted the virus as of Monday night, the school division has alerted parents that at least nine staff members, including Rokus, were among that count.

Two new school-related cases involve a staff member at Waxpool Elementary School, where the principal and two other employees were previous identified as

having the coronavirus, and a member of the Central Administration staff who works in the Administration Building.

Williams provided advice to parents for talking about the illnesses with their children.

“It is important to be available to speak with children about the ways adults are working to help keep them safe, reminding them of the basic actions they can take to protect themselves and others,” Williams wrote. “Finally, as caregivers, modeling both positive and healthy activities can be beneficial to helping your child through this time.

“A strength of each of our school communities is that its members support each other in our time of need,” Williams wrote.

“Life’s lessons are sometimes the hardest to teach and learn, especially with young children. If your child needs to speak with a school counselor, please reach out to the School Counselor or your child’s principal.”

Health Department Director Dr. David Goodfriend noted that it has been more than two weeks since schools were closed in Loudoun—meaning that if a child had caught the illness while in a school building, they would have shown symptoms by now.

Loudoun’s retirement communities also have restricted access in recent weeks in an effort to limit exposure of high-risk residents to infection.

Raspberry Falls

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Long Meadow Hamlet

Lofts at Village Walk

41600 Swiftwater Dr, Leesburg

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As of Monday, two residents of Falcons Landing had tested positive.

Falcons Landing has been screening all visitors for COVID-19 symptoms and risks at the main entrance gate since March 6 and since March 12, all employees have also been screened at the employee gate. Visitors to the campus have been prohibited since March 16. Residents of Falcons Landing independent living units are remaining in their homes with all services and meals being delivered to their doors.

“The restrictions we imposed on our residents and on staff have been difficult, yet despite all our precautions, we find ourselves in the situation we had hoped to avoid,” stated Falcons Landing President and CEO Barbara Brannon. “It has been devastating to lose a member of our Falcons Landing family despite our efforts. It is also a grim reminder that everyone is at risk for COVID-19. We will persevere in taking all known measures to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19. I urge all who read this to do the same.”

Falcons Landing is not the only retirement community hit by the disease, said Goodfriend said. And those communities are health officials’ top priority.

“Any place where people are residential in one way or another, whether seniors or health-based residential, we are starting to see those really throughout the region,”

19610 Bellingham Ln, Leesburg

170 Alpine Dr, Leesburg

1308 Ribbon Limestone Ter, Leesburg

Goodfriend said. “And so we’re not seeing in more or less in Loudoun County, but it is something over the last week or so, and that’s really our top priority, is how do we limit those outbreaks in facilities that cater to high-risk folks.”

The Virginia Department of Health reports positive tests by locality, but only reports deaths by region; as of Tuesday, the department reported seven deaths in Northern Virginia.

Also this week, the Sheriff ’s Office announced that a deputy was among those with the infection. The deputy works in the Field Operations Division and tested positive for COVID-19 Monday morning. According to the announcement, he has mild allergy-like symptoms and is recovering at home. At this time there is no indication the deputy had close contact with any community members during the course of his duties in recent weeks.

In all cases, the Loudoun County Health Department is conducting investigations to see who may have had close contact with the people who have tested positive.

It is unclear where the deputy contracted the virus, but there is no indication that the virus is a result of an arrest or personal contact with staff, according to the announcement. The health department also is conducting a contact investigation in the case. n

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Looking for a Few Good Loudoun Fellows Are you spiritually hungry? Do you want to LIVE your Christian faith in a more challenging and effective way? Are you ready for more study, so that you can deepen your relationship with Christ and further the work of God’s kingdom on earth? Then you are invited to join the Fellows Program, a year-long discipleship program from the CS Lewis Institute – Loudoun County, designed for those men and women who are ready to be intentional about spiritual growth and God’s work.

The Fellows Program’s life-changing opportunity is designed to be The Fellows Program dramatically spiritually transformative. works! A survey of our It runs for one academic year Fellows found that 76% (September – June), with summer would be willing to lead readings beforehand, and a retreat a discipleship group in in September to formally initiate the their home; 100% exyear. Each month examines a different perienced an increase biblical theme, with an overall focus in their involvement in on spiritual formation, apologetics, ministry to their family evangelism and our call to serve and community; 88% others. A combination of dynamic increased their involvement in workplace minteachers and writers, experienced istry; and 84% said the mentors, effective small groups and program had “transactive engagement with Scripture formed or significantly produces mature believers who can impacted their life.” articulate, defend and joyfully live out their Christian faith in every aspect of their life. It is a true feast for hungry souls seeking “more.”

Please prayerfully consider joining us for this exciting next step in your journey with Christ. We will be accepting Loudoun County applications through May 15, 2020.

Cost of the Program -- due to generous support of the program, there is no tuition cost to the Program. Each Fellow is only responsible for their books, materials and the cost of the retreat. For more information about the CS Lewis Institute and the Fellows Program, please go to www.cslewisinstitute.org or contact Tim Bradley at t.bradley@cslewisinstitute.org.

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Foot traffic may be down around their newly opened King Street shop, but David and Susan Mercado are seeing strong online orders, especially for their world renown chocolates.

Optimism Abounds as New Businesses Navigate Pandemic

BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

krodriguez@loudounnow.com

March’s First Friday event in Leesburg was a grand opening celebration of sorts for David Mercado and Leesburg Gourmet, his new shop at the corner of Loudoun and King streets, the longtime home of the Leesburg Vintner.

“It wasn’t a particularly pleasant evening weather-wise, but we were pretty much standing room only,” Mercado recalled. “People were excited, getting tastes of wine. Our sommelier, Andy, was very busy treating people to wines they had never had before.”

There was no indication on that happy evening, Mercado said, to how the country would change just a week later, when new CDC restrictions that have only grown in strength since then preached social distancing and advised the American public to just stay home.

Those mandates and the increased local transmission of the coronavirus have made opening a business in downtown Leesburg—which for the past few years has had a Midas touch particularly for restaurants, bars and nightlife spots— quite the challenge.

Charles Schech and Lauren Barrett were looking forward to the opening of their first restaurant, Buford’s Biscuits, in April, but that timeline has now hit multiple obstacles in the wake of the pandemic, between licensing delays and just about every entity they need to talk to closed or overwhelmed. Ever the optimist, Schech

said they are still hoping to open their doors on Loudoun Street in May, and have used the unexpected extra time to refine their menu and the restaurant space.

“We are looking at it as we have more time to perfect the space and plan everything for success. Basically, we are staying as positive as possible. Our industry is in this together and we try to remember that all of us are in a tight position but will come out of it bigger and better,” Schech said.

He said he recognizes that trying to open a restaurant in the midst of a pandemic is “another level of insanity” but it has left the duo undeterred.

“Lauren and I have wanted to do this for so many years. This will absolutely not stop us. Individuals that aren’t in the service industry are finally seeing that restaurants don’t open for profitability; they’re open for the passion of the business,” he said.

Jim Thompson has also had to modify his plans for the opening of Yummy Pig, which is relocating from Catoctin Circle to Market Street, the site of the former Casa Nostra restaurant. Rather than opening a full-service restaurant and an Irish bar that was to take the upstairs space, Thompson is instead focusing on getting the kitchen space up and running to begin carryout and delivery operations. He is also at the mercy of the waiting game, pending final approvals from the Health Department.

OPTIMISM continues on page 9

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APRIL 2, 2020

Optimism continued from page 8 “I’ve been in a holding pattern just like every other restaurateur,” he said. “Realistically, I’m looking at the middle of May. I’ve given up on Easter and Mother’s Day, which is pretty big.”

Thompson is optimistic since Yummy Pig had a robust carryout patronage prior to its Catoctin Circle closing. With many residents now in walking distance of the new space, he is hopeful that continues downtown.

“Our carryout was enough to keep us floating. I’m hoping that’s the same now,” he said.

Although Leesburg Gourmet has, for obvious reasons, not seen the standing-room-only traffic it did but a few weeks ago, Mercado said he has been pleased with how many residents have been patronizing the business. Many have been curious and excited to see what the Vintner’s successor has to offer in terms of its selection of wine, beer, cheese, chocolate, and charcuterie. While the CDC mandates change “the customer experience” by limited the unmber of people who can be at the shop at a time, those

who do come in have generated quality sales for the business, Mercado said. Some have taken advantage of curbside pickup options and called orders in ahead of time, but the majority have taken the time to come in and chat with Mercado and do a little shopping.

“It becomes an opportunity then to make the most of each encounter,” he said.

“It’s been a challenge but also fulfilling to get to know people more closely, empathizing with you, wanting to be more supportive.”

On the other hand, Mercado said, he has two other businesses that have been extremely hard hit by the pandemic, his Art Sweet Art gallery space on Loudoun Street, and his event production and audiovisual business. “We are celebrating the new gourmet shop but at the same time we’re under no illusion that it’s going to be easy,” he said.

Thompson summed up the challenge for the food and beverage industry in America’s current new normal.

“This is a really big kick in the stomach for us,” he said. “But restaurateurs pivot well by nature. Every time a hurdle comes up you’ve got to figure out a way around it. There hasn’t been a hurdle that I haven’t been able to overcome yet.” n

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Advertise in Loudoun Now If you operate a business in Loudoun County you already know that Loudoun Now’s in-home mail distribution of our print product combined with our online products provide more impressions than any other media platform in Loudoun County. Not a business? Use classified ads to sell your unwanted treasures or publicly recognize special events (graduations, anniversaries, etc.) with small recognition messages delivered to readers of our products.

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The Rowdy Ace Band plays on the outdoor stage at McDowell’s, one of the top live music venues in downtown Leesburg.

Leesburg Council Relaxes Embattled Noise Limits

BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

krodriguez@loudounnow.com

For the first time in more than a decade, the Leesburg Town Council has chosen to make changes to its noise regulations.

By a 4-3 vote March 24, the council approved a series of Town Code changes governing noise regulations in town.

Among the most prominent of changes is extending the time for amplified outdoor music to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings, two hours later than the previously permitted cut-off time of 8 p.m.

The 8 p.m. curfew still applies to Sunday through Thursday evenings. Amplified outdoor music may begin no earlier than 2 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 10:30 a.m. the other days of the week. The council chose not to extend the “plainly audible” noise measurement standard beyond its current limit of 50 feet from the property line. That means noise is deemed excessive if it can be heard unaided beyond that distance. A 100-foot limit had been contemplated.

The council maintained its current permit process for businesses that want to provide amplified outdoor music. Under the adopted regulations, a business must apply for a permit at least 48 hours ahead of the use, and the permit would be valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.

How to penalize violators of the regulations had taken up the lion’s share of de-

bate in recent meetings, and council members ultimately settled on a six-month cancellation of the permit following two written summons issued by the Leesburg Police Department. A business does have the ability to appeal such a decision.

Mayor Kelly Burk sought support for a permit cancellation following a single violation, but did not receive support. The council had also considered allowing up to three violations during a 12-month period.

Allowances will also be made for special events to use outdoor amplified sound at other times of the day with the approval of the town manager.

The final noise ordinance vote saw the dissent by Burk and council members Tom Dunn and Suzanne Fox. The vote will undoubtedly be a victory for many businesses, particularly the downtown’s restaurant and nightlife scene, which in large numbers had complained that the 8 p.m. weekend cut-off was outdated. Many downtown residents, however, had argued that extending noise allowance could negatively impact their quality of life.

As evidenced by the vote, the council also was split.

Councilman Neil Steinberg noted that the issue had been debated at the council ad nauseum in recent years. Even before NOISE continues on page 11

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APRIL 2, 2020

Noise continued from page 10 its most recent airing beginning this past fall, the council had twice debated the noise regulations over the years since it was last changed in 2009, but in neither instance made changes.

“We’ve been discussing this a long time,” Steinberg said. “It’s a compromise at best. We know we’re not going to make everybody happy.”

Dunn, however, said the revised regulations would not have the impact some council members thought.

“If there isn’t strict enforcement, then we’re going to have the same situation where citizens are looking for complaints to cause a change. I think we’re going to have unhappy residents, unhappy businesses, and if the police get dragged into it, unhappy officers. In the end, we’re going to end up with exactly the same thing,” he said.

The new regulations go into effect immediately, but, because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the closure of all restaurant dining rooms and bars, it will likely be weeks or months before their impacts are tested. n

State of the Town Address Cancelled The coronavirus pandemic has spelled the cancellation of another town annual event.

Mayor Kelly Burk’s annual State of the Town address, a tradition started by her predecessor David Butler in 2016, has been cancelled. It was originally supposed to take place Tuesday, March 31, and for a time was going to go on as planned, but without a public audience. But, as local transmission of coronavirus intensified, those plans were also shelved.

Yard Waste Collection Begins Patriot Disposal Services has begun yard waste collection for the year.

Yard waste for those living within the corporate limits of the town will be collected every Monday. A maximum of 10 bags or 10 properly marked trash cans will be picked up at each resident’s home per week, with no exceptions. Yard waste is limited to grass clippings, leaves, weeds and small twigs and must be placed at the curb by 6 a.m. on the day of collection, in biodegradable paper bags or in cans clearly marked as yard waste. The town will provide residents with free “Yard Waste” stickers. Residents can request stickers by

PAGE 11

calling 703-771-2790 or emailing trash@ leesburgva.gov.

The service could be suspended if there are staffing shortfalls or additional coronavirus restrictions. Information on service changes can be found on the town’s social media channels or at leesburgva.gov. For more information about yard waste collection, go to leesburgva. gov/yardwaste.

Town Hall Changes Operations In response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, public access to Town Hall is now limited to the first floor, except during public meetings.

The following changes took effect late last week: • The receptionist desk in the lobby is closed. Signs will direct visitors to the Finance Counter and the Town Manager’s Office.

• Access to the upper and lower levels of the building is restricted to staff only.

• The Finance Counter will be open normal hours to accept town payments.

• Land development plans and permit applications can be dropped off at the Town Manager’s Office. Plan Review and Planning & Zoning staff will be available to answer questions, but the second floor plan intake counter is closed to the public.

• The Town Manager’s Office will accept and date-stamp bid documents.

During public meetings in either the second floor Council Chambers or the lower level conference rooms, the public will have access to those rooms, but the staff will enforce social distancing protocols. Members of the public are encouraged to watch public meetings on the town’s local government access cable channels (Verizon FiOS 35 and Comcast Xfinity 67) or leesburgva.gov/webcasts.

Council Plans Another Coronavirus Special Meeting The Leesburg Town Council will meet for another special meeting this Friday, April 3, and the reason again relates to the coronavirus pandemic.

The council called its last special meeting March 18 to declare a local emergency related to the pandemic. Friday’s meeting, scheduled to start at 10 a.m., focuses on continuity of operations legislation specifically related to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a town press release.

The meeting will be held in Town Hall Council Chambers and will also be streamed via webcast at leesburgva.gov.

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Public Safety Unlicensed Sterling Dentist Charged with Sexual Assault A Sterling man was arrested last week on charges of sexual assault of a juvenile and practicing dentistry without a license.

The alleged sexual assault was reported to the Sheriff ’s Office on March 26. The victim told her family that Juan Ramos Jacobe, 46, assaulted her while she was at his home early last week.

She reported she was mildly sedated at the time to have the denJacobe tal work performed.

The investigation conducted by the Sheriff ’s Office Special Victims Unit found that Ramos Jacobe had operated a makeshift dental clinic out of his North York Road home since 2019.

Detectives are working to determine whether there are additional victims who have not come forward. Those with information are asked to contact Detective P. Roque at 703-777-1021.

Ramos Jacobe has been charged with aggravated sexual battery, object sexual

penetration and practicing certain professions and occupations without appropriate licensure. He was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.

LCSO: Fleeing Shoplifter Strikes Pedestrian A Chantilly woman faces criminal charges after backing into a pedestrian in a grocery store parking lot.

According to the Sheriff ’s Office’s report, deputies were called to the Giant store in the Greenway Corporate Center at midnight Saturday for a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.

Witnesses said the driver was leaving the store without paying for items. A loss prevention person, the victim, and an acquaintance of the victim followed the suspect to her vehicle. The suspect then backed up and struck the victim.

The suspect returned to the store where she was arrested.

Alicia Wolman, 31, of Chantilly was charged with larceny-3rd offense and hit and run with personal injury. She was being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.

APRIL 2, 2020

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PAGE 13

Nonprofit Hazel Joins Claude Moore Charitable Foundation Dr. Bill Hazel is joining the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation as its senior deputy executive director.

Hazel served eight years at Virginia’s secretary of Health and Human Resources under Governors Bob McDonnell and Terry McAuliffe, overseeing 11 state agencies including Hazel Medicaid, Health, Behavioral Health, Social Services, and Aging and Rehabilitation. The Fauquier County native graduated from Princeton University with a degree in civil engineering and Duke University with a degree in medicine, finishing his orthopedic residency at the Mayo Clinic. He was an orthopedic surgeon with an office practice in Northern Virginia, was assistant surgeon for the Washington Redskins, and the team physician for the

D.C. United professional soccer club.

He’ll begin the position April 1.

“Bill has served as a tireless leader and advocate for the health and wellbeing of vulnerable communities in the commonwealth,” said Executive Director J. Hamilton Lambert in announcing the appointment. “His contributions have already been recognized in numerous awards and recognitions, including being deemed a ‘Legend of Northern Virginia’ by the Northern Virginia Family Services and receiving the Salute to Service to the Profession from the Medical Society of Virginia Foundation. Bringing an asset such as Bill Hazel into our organization will add immeasurable strength to our management team and our ability to move forward. His track record in a host of areas including, but not limited to, management of complex organizations, the ability to solve problems, and his ability to effectively communicate and work with the private and public sectors, are just a few of his talents. We heartily welcome him aboard.”

The Foundation was established in 1987 by Dr. Claude Moore, who left most

of his fortune in trust for the purpose of enhancing educational opportunities throughout Virginia. The nonprofit devotes resources to programs that improve literacy, especially for youth; and, support K-12 healthcare education programs as well as nursing and medical education programs in higher education.

Ladies Board Extends Deadline for Scholarship Applications The Ladies Board of Inova Loudoun Hospital has extended the application deadline for nursing school tuition assistance to April 30.

Since the scholarship program’s inception in 1959, The Ladies Board has offered over 1,200 scholarships totaling nearly $1,875,000. In 2019 $104,050 was awarded to 45 students and scholarships ranged from $1,000 to $2,850.

Scholarships are available to eligible students in various programs of study, including degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

Applications and additional information are available at ladiesboard.org or by

calling 703-777-6357.

Scholarships are funded by The Gift Shop at Inova Loudoun Hospital, Twice Is Nice thrift shop, the Lights of Love program, and the Annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale.

Chabad of Loudoun Launches Community Outreach Chabad of Loudoun County has mounted a proactive effort to support the community. Volunteers are available to deliver essential food and supplies to anyone who does not feel safe or cannot leave their home.

The congregation is building a list of senior citizens or immunocompromised residents who may need assistance as well as a list of residents seeking to volunteer their services.

Details can be viewed at jewishloudoun.com/covid-19.

Rabbi Chaim even encourages individuals who need a listening ear to call him at 248-298-9279.

PAGE 14

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APRIL 2, 2020

Our Towns

TOWN notes

Amid Closures and Cancellations, Much of Loudoun Still in Operation

BY PATRICK SZABO pszabo@loudounnow.com

Loudouners these days aren’t out tasting wine in the countryside, sipping on beer on main street, watching live music in the grass or going out for family dinners.

Gov. Ralph Northam’s stay-at-home order has forced residents to find ways of having fun at home for the next few months, and has forced many businesses to shut their doors temporarily or permanently. But it has also forced the community to think outside the box when it comes to providing residents with the food, drinks, events and programs they’ve come to love.

For the food and beverage industry, that means takeout and delivery options.

For town governments, it means planning for the future. And for many others, it means virtual experiences.

A Virtual World Visit Loudoun CEO Beth Erickson said the community’s response to the pandemic and subsequent shutdowns has been quick, and that residents and business owners continue to adapt to the times, which are changing every day.

She referenced the virtual events many businesses are holding, like virtual wine tastings. Those include offerings from Breaux Vineyards, Cana Vineyards and Winery, Lost Creek Winery, Greenhill Winery & Vineyards, the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and Walsh Family Wine.

“It’s a great concept,” Erickson said.

Twinpanzee Brewing Co. also hosted its first Virtual Drink & Meet-Up last Saturday, which took place as a web conference on Zoom.

Erickson said area musicians are also hosting virtual concerts and the Loudoun Museum is hosting virtual walking tours of downtown Leesburg.

“The industry and the community is becoming very creative in finding ways to engage with their customers, with visitors,” Erickson said. “I think the creativity is flowing and the community is responding.”

Loudoun Museum Executive Director Joe Rizzo said the museum put together the virtual walking tours about three

HAMILTON Town Website URL Changed The Town of Hamilton recently changed its website URL from town. hamilton.va.us to a more succinct version—hamiltonva.gov.

The new URL is in line with that of Loudoun’s six other towns, which all feature the structure “[town name] va.gov.”

LOVETTSVILLE County to Complete Lovettsville Community Center Parking Lot

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Area children enjoy some ice cream on a Friday afternoon out front of Round Hill Local Grocery, where it’s essentially business as usual, in addition to curbside delivery, amid the COVID-19 pandemic that has led to state-order mandates on how businesses can and can’t operate.

weeks ago with the help of the Mosby Heritage Area Association. He said they filmed 10 short videos around downtown Leesburg, including in cemeteries, at the Glenfiddich house, and at the John Janney House.

And, Rizzo said, the museum is planning to film more, perhaps at Balls Bluff Battlefield Regional Park and even in sites in Ashburn and Middleburg.

“I want it to be all throughout Loudoun,” he said. “People are looking for options.”

Rizzo said the museum also offers History on Tap events on Zoom—an experience he hopes to offer nearly every week moving forward and one that saw visitors from across the nation log onto the first session last Thursday.

Erickson said another popular virtual event is the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center’s weekly Facebook Live chats with F-14 pilot and National Air and Space Museum Deputy Director Chris Browne. Those events will be held every Thursday in April a 1 p.m.

While virtual experiences are the best alternatives to in-person outings in today’s quarantined world, some of those experiences might just stick around once the coronavirus crisis loosens its grip on society.

“I do see a lot of merit for it,” Rizzo

said about a virtual world moving past the pandemic.

Until that point, residents living in and around all seven Loudoun towns are focused on a new way of life. Here’s what those towns have to offer.

Hamilton The Town of Hamilton still features several businesses that have kept their doors open. Miss Tina’s Amish Country Market, Natural Mercantile and the Hamilton Convenience Store are a few of those.

Hillsboro The COVID-19 pandemic has not stalled the Town of Hillsboro’s Rt. 9 traffic calming project.

While work is underway, area businesses have remained resilient and have remained open to customers at some capacity. The Hill Tom Market and the Stoneybrook Farm Market remain open.

Town leaders are also working to plant a community garden at the Old Stone School for residents to harvest fresh produce throughout the coming months and are hoping to hold distanced block parties each Friday evening. Last Friday, Mayor Roger Vance put speakers out on Rt. 9 and STILL OPEN continues on page 16

The county government has taken up work on the Lovettsville Community Center where its former contractor left off.

On Monday, it began work to complete the parking lot, earthwork and geothermal piping on the site in an effort to advance the project following the firing of the construction contractor.

According to a county statement, that work should take about two months to complete.

Meridian Construction Co. had been working under a $10.8 million contract on a project from July 2019 to early this year to demolish the nearly century-old building and replace it with a new, more than 15,000-squarefoot one. The county terminated that contract on Jan. 17 following a series of delays that set the project back four months. Meridian had already been paid $752,686.30. The county staff plans to re-issue a construction bid by late 2020.

Years ago, the county staff determined that the existing community center needed to be demolished and rebuilt because it is functionally obsolete, lacked ADA accessibility and has reached the end of its useful life, according to Loudoun Public Information Officer Glen Barbour.

Learn more about the project at loudoun.gov/5227/Lovettsville-Community-Center.

Town Moves to Monthly Utility Billing Model The Lovettsville Town Council last TOWN NOTES continues on page 17

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APRIL 2, 2020

PAGE 15

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Still open continued from page 14 played music for residents to hear from their doorsteps.

Middleburg The Town of Middleburg is typically known for its equestrian culture, arts scene and upscale shopping and dining. Last week, it gained a bit of popularity from the Town Council-approved $182,000 relief package that will support residents, restaurants and the community at large.

The town government also created a webpage to encourage residents to support local businesses—middleburgva. gov/326/Support-Local. There, residents can see which businesses remain open and at what capacity.

Artists in Middleburg has also created a virtual gallery highlighting art in its “MORE Things Considered” exhibit, which is on display through May 10. That artwork can be viewed at theartistsinmiddleburg.org under the “Gallery 102” menu tab.

The nonprofit is also developing a secondary Facebook page called “Friends of

the Artists in Middleburg Community” that will provide artists, art teachers and students with an interactive experience.

Residents are encouraged to share online art classes, demonstrations, inspiring articles, exhibitions and artwork with the gallery by emailing Sandy Danielson, the nonprofit’s president, at sandy@theartistsinmiddleburg.org.

Leesburg The Town of Leesburg’s typically bustling downtown area has gone silent, as all breweries and many restaurants have closed up shop. But residents are doing all they can to continue living semi-normal lives while complying with social distancing mandates.

Assistant Public Information Officer Leah Kosin pointed to a couple plans scheduled in the coming months.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ travelling museum is planning to visit town the first weekend in June, and local artist Kaeley Boyle is still scheduled to paint a mural on the South King Street bridge near the W&OD Trail next month.

Residents wanting to get out of the house sooner are also invited to the lower level of the Town Hall to view an art display.

Obituaries Jane Grondahl Packard (Age 98) player who “took no prisoners”. Jane conJane Grondahl Packard passed away on tributed to the community, serving as an March 27 in Ashburn, “Arlington Lady,” one of those who ensure Virginia. Born in Portthat no serviceman is ever buried alone land, Oregon on August at Arlington National Cemetery. Later, 24, 1921 to Sigrid and Lt. she was a docent at Oatlands Plantation Col. Sigurd Grondahl, National Trust near Leesburg. Jane kept Jane was the eldest of a beautiful vegetable and flower garden, four siblings, characters all. She was raised made her own compost, loved her husband, in Steilacoom, Washington, overlooking children, grandchildren, and then her Puget Sound, and attended Stadium High great-grandchildren. She laughed and she School and the College of Puget Sound. was loved.

The adventurous Jane earned her pilot’s After 66 years of marriage, Pete died in license prior to meeting her Air Corps 2007. In addition to her husband, Jane was husband, Peter L.M. Packard. Jane raised predeceased by her brother Capt. William her four, spirited children traveling North Grondahl, a fighter pilot. She is survived America as an Air Force wife. After Pete’s by her brother Jim Grondahl and sister retirement as a colonel, the two continued Sandra Grondahl of Steilacoom, WA, and traveling while he worked for Westingher children Pete of Leesburg, VA, Bill (Pat) house at posts in Shiraz, Iran and finally of Bethany Beach, DE, Millie of Bristow, Leesburg, Virginia, where they retired.

VA, and Sig of Winchester, VA, as well as 7 Jane said, “Life begins at 50,” and proved grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. it. A voracious reader and savvy conversaJane’s children will escort her remains to tionalist, Jane encouraged those around her her childhood home in Washington State. to know their world. Her dinner parties In lieu of flowers, please send a donawere well known for their lively discussions. She was also a ferocious bridge tion to your local hospice.

The Clay and Metal Loft is offering residents curbside material pickup for its paint-your-own pottery kits and is offering online classes. AR Workshop Loudoun is selling letter tile kits with all materials included. The Sunflower Shack is selling Quarantine Fun Baskets that include nostalgic games, puzzles and other activities available for curbside pickup or delivery within the town limits.

As for physical wellness, there’s more to do than sit around, drink and watch Netflix. For instance, Integrative Chiropractic is offering live streamed meditation nights, workout classes and more.

Lovettsville Former Lovettsville mayor Bob Zoldos used to say that Virginia’s northernmost town featured “more great restaurants per capita than any other town in Virginia.”

Today, in a world where the main streets of most Loudoun towns have become ghost towns, many of Lovettsville’s restaurants are still open, just at limited capacities.

To name a few, those include 1836 Kitchen & Tap Room, Andy’s Pizza, Back Street Brews, Market Table Bistro, Velocity Wings, Rodeo’s Mexican Grill and Thaiverse.

Lovettsville is also one of the only towns to not yet cancel one of its hallmark events. Instead, the town has postponed its April 11 Eggstravaganza event to an undetermined future date.

Purcellville In Purcellville, residents, business owners and town leaders are working to pull information together to keep the community up to date on which businesses remain open and which events they can look forward to in the coming months.

Administration Director Hooper McCann said the town staff developed a “Support Local Businesses During Coronavirus” webpage to provide residents with a listing of businesses that have adjusted their services. Businesses are encouraged to list their modified services and hours on the page. See the full list at purcellvilleva.gov/946/Support-Local-Businesses.

Mayor Kwasi Fraser said he helped a resident created PurcellvilleCares.com to provide residents with similar information.

Although all town events have been cancelled for the foreseeable future, McCann said the town’s Parks and Recreation staff is working to develop virtual events and activities to help keep residents connected with one another and engaged.

Purcellville Police Department Public

APRIL 2, 2020

Information Officer Emily Johnson said there are still a few outdoor options for residents to enjoy while stuck at home.

The W&OD Trail, which stretches 45 miles from Shirlington to Purcellville, is open for bicyclists and pedestrians and features restaurants that are still open for carryout at the trailhead in historic downtown. The Chapman DeMary Trail, the Suzanne Kane Nature Preserve and Dillon’s Woods in the Fireman’s Field complex are also still open, as are portions of Franklin Park.

Round Hill In Round Hill, it’s business as usual to the greatest degree, seeing that the number of prominent businesses in town, which can almost be counted on one hand and are all food-related, are still operating.

Round Hill Local Grocery and the Round Hill Mini Market are both still open, as is Tammy’s Diner, which is fulfilling takeout orders and added a new dinner takeout option last Friday. The Savoir Fare catering company’s C’est Bon dinners-to-go operation is also still open every Wednesday to Friday from 4-7 p.m. in the Old Furniture Factory.

The community morale in Round Hill also seems to have remained high. One area resident said her neighborhood held a “bear hunt” last Friday night, in which neighbors left stuffed bears in their front windows for children to walk around and spot.

Keeping the Creativity Flowing Moving into the next 11 weeks of Northam’s order for all Virginians to stay home, Loudouners will have to get more creative to stay occupied.

Whether that’s by engaging in self-guided outdoor endeavors away from other people or indoor virtual experiences, those activities could lead to a future full of new recreational opportunities.

But, Erickson said, even if internet-based fun becomes a prominent pastime, residents will inevitably have a pent-up desire to venture back into the Loudoun County they love. Erickson said that’s because the Loudoun community does personal experiences better than anywhere else.

“Beauty can’t be experienced virtually as well as in person,” she said.

For now, Loudouners can list events on Visit Loudoun’s calendar to share their experiences with their neighbors—a calendar Erickson said typically keeps 14,000 residents engaged. n

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

APRIL 2, 2020

TOWN notes continued from page 14 Thursday voted to amend the Town Code to move quarterly utility billing to monthly billing.

To begin monthly billings, the town staff will notify utility customers in their usual quarterly bills, which will go out at the end of April, May or June—depending on which cycle the customer is on. The first monthly utility bills will be sent out at the end of May, June and July.

Under the revised Town Code section, utility payments will be due 25 days after bills are issued. If bills are not paid by the due date, the town will assess those customers a 10-percent penalty and notify them that their service will be cut off after 25 additional days unless they pay their bills or enter into a payment plan with the town.

However, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the town will not cut off service to utility customers who are unable to pay their bills, and also won’t charge them late fees.

Lovettsville Crafting for a Cause Makes Masks The Lovettsville Crafting for a Cause group is making masks to protect against COVID-19.

Group members are making two different types of masks—a generic 100 percent cotton mask and a mask that has a slot for an N95 mask to fit inside. The group is sending those off doctors, nurses and also individuals who are sick and must wear a mask while in public.

For more information on how to help the cause, go to the Lovettsville Crafting for a Cause Facebook page or call Stacey Bassett at 240-457-0055.

Co-op Market Takes Over Quarter Branch Park Garden The Lovettsville Town Council last week voted to authorize the Lovettsville Cooperative Market for it to take over control of the Quarter Branch Park community garden.

The co-op will operate an 80-by-70-foot garden with eight 10-by-10-foot garden plots available for any Virginia resident to use. The garden has sat fallow since the Lovettsville Garden Club disbanded last summer. Returning gardeners will get first consideration for plots, followed by new Lovettsville residents and co-op members, then returning non-resident gardeners and lastly all other Virginia residents.

The 6-acre Quarter Branch Park was donated to the town by the developer of New Town Meadows in 2005 and now features a field with a walking path that the town will eventually upgrade to a rock dust trail with the possible addition of fitness stations, park benches and a nature trail in the lower wooded area.

MIDDLEBURG Town to Donate $4.5K to Concert Organizers The Middleburg Town Council last week approved a town donation of $4,500 to both the National Sporting Library and Museum and the Middleburg Concert Foundation.

The sporting library will use that money to pay for marketing costs associated with its Open Late Concert Series. The concert foundation will use the money to increase its staffing so that it doesn’t rely as much on volunteer work.

The Town Council also authorized the town staff to apply for a Virginia Commission for the Arts grant. Any proceeds from that will be split evenly between the sporting library and concert foundation.

Town Administrator Danny Davis noted that amid the COVID-19 pandemic,

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both concert series have moved their first concerts to the end of the season.

Town Recognized as 2019 Tree City USA The Town of Middleburg last Thursday was recognized as a 2019 Tree City USA via a letter from the Arbor Day Foundation.

The town achieved the designation by having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

Middleburg is one of more than 3,600 Tree City USA communities. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

PURCELLVILLE Purcellville Suspends Meals Tax Until June The Town Council last week directed the town staff to suspend collection of the 5-percent meals tax for April and May. The goal is to encourage residents to continue buying food from town restaurants amid the COVID-19 pandemic that is keeping

most people indoors.

Learn which town restaurants are open for carryout and/or delivery service at purcellvillecares.com/restaurants.

During last Tuesday’s Town Council meeting, Town Manager David Mekarski said the town staff expects to potentially lose $250,000 to $800,000 in meals tax revenue from now to the end of the fiscal year on June 30. He said the town staff is projecting a potential 50- to 75-percent loss in the revenue in Fiscal Year 2021, equating to a maximum of $2 million.

ROUND HILL Town Council Won’t Meet Until May or Later Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing social distancing protocols, the Round Hill Town Council will not meet until May, or later if there is no time-sensitive business to handle, according to Town Administrator Melissa Hynes.

Hynes said the council took care of all urgent business at its March 19 meeting.

For town updates, go to roundhillva.org or call 540-338-7878.

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LoCo Living

Credit Hyon Smith Photography

Leesburg-based dance and Zumba instructor Danielle Sirinsky is staying sane and bringing joy to neighbors by offering virtual classes by donation.

Curing Cabin Fever LoCo Style

BY JAN MERCKER

jmercker@loudounnow.com

With more than two weeks of self-isolation and social distancing under our belts and no clear end in sight, cabin fever is starting to set in. But Loudoun’s movers and shakers are fighting the COVID blues with creative ways to get moving and stay active. Loudoun Now checked in with a few of the community’s favorite cabin fever busters with suggestions from Zumba in your living room to starting a garden.

Get Moving When dance teacher and Zumba instructor Danielle Sirinsky realized that COVID-related gym closures were going to be around for a while, she had to take action, both for her own sanity and as a way to help her community. Sirinsky has been teaching daily weekday Zumba classes from her living room since March 16.

“I knew I wanted to do something that would not only help my community feel good about themselves but help me feel good about myself as well,” said Sirinsky,

who lives in Leesburg with her husband and two daughters. “I know I need to give myself self-care because I’m now stuck in the house with two teenagers. ... It helps me get up and gives me purpose.”

For Sirinsky, who teaches dance at Loudoun School of Ballet and taught Zumba at Leesburg’s LA Fitness for eight years, one of the upsides has been reconnecting with former students, including several who live out of state.

“It’s nice to just see the connections,” Sirinsky said, adding that her imperfect class from her living room can get goofy with jokes, occasional stumbles and stories about her day. It’s creating a sense of community and camaraderie. Another benefit of the online format is that it provides a low-pressure environment for exercise.

“It’s so important to keep yourself moving...It’s a mental escape from what we’re all going through right now. It puts you in the health mindset,” Sirinsky said. “Now more than ever, it’s just important to move.

It doesn’t matter how you move…The beauty about this is there is no one watching. It doesn’t matter if you make a fool of yourself. As long as you’re moving, you’re doing it right.”

Sirinsky offers Facebook Live classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 8 a.m. and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 4 p.m. via her personal page. She accepts donations via PayPal or Venmo.

“It’s not expected but of course welcomed and appreciated,” Sirinsky said. “I’m going to keep doing it no matter what.”

Get Centered For Tiffany Coombs, owner of Lotus Town Yoga in Lovettsville, yoga is a way to take the focus off worry and onto the present moment, using both breath and movement.

“My main process is just to remember to breathe. … It’s so easy to forget to breathe when things are less than ideal because everything is a little crazy,” Coombs said.

APRIL 2, 2020 “There’s just so much uncertainty sometimes and it’s a little scary. Just remembering to breathe is so powerful, and from a scientific standpoint, the breath actually helps you to calm down. It’s a real thing that the breath, especially the exhalations, help you to calm down.”

For Coombs, the decision to close her studio in downtown Lovettsville and go virtual was tough but necessary, but she’s adapting thanks to online resources and is watching a new community grow.

“It was kind of a scramble to figure out what I was going to do,” she said. “I needed to keep my business running and I want to be a support for people. I know how helpful [yoga] is for me, and it’s good to share that with other people.”

Coombs is offering a weekly free class in addition to a paid monthly membership including unlimited online classes and membership in a private Facebook group with tutorials and other tips. Just like for Sirinsky, the sense of community opening up online has been a silver lining.

“It actually opens up more possibilities for people to be able to practice in general. Sometimes it just doesn’t work in your schedule to be able to go to a class as it’s happening,” Coombs said. “Nothing compares to practicing with other people in person, but people are still able to interact with one another and make comments on the Facebook group as the class is happening or after. People are sending pictures of their home yoga studios. That’s actually been really fun to watch that unfolding and transforming as people are interacting more.”

Check out a free class and find out about signing up for a month of virtual yoga at facebook.com/lotustownyoga

Get Outside With Loudouners (and the rest of the CABIN FEAVER continues on page 20

Shaking Things Up: COVID Edition Here are just a few suggestions for Loudouners looking to beat cabin fever, get moving or try something new. Do you have an upcoming or ongoing virtual fitness, cooking, gardening or other class? Email calendar@loudounnow. com or list your virtual events at getoutloudoun.com.

Get Moving!

Clear your mind and move your muscles with free and low-cost exercise

options from some of Loudoun’s favorite instructors: One of Leesburg’s fitness hubs, IDA LEE RECREATION CENTER, is broadcasting short workouts with favorite fitness instructors under the hashtag #idaleeathome. Check out facebook.com/ idaleepark.

Lovettsville’s LOTUS TOWN YOGA offers weekly free classes Sunday mornings.

Love it? Sign up for a monthly membership for $130 and get access to unlimited classes and a private Facebook group.

Go to facebook.com/lotustownyoga.

FIVE PEAKS YOGA in Leesburg offers live and on-demand yoga classes.

Virtual drop-in for $15 or use existing class passes. Go to facebook.com/fivepeaksyoga.

DANIELLE SIRINSKY’S ZUMBA classes are live at 8 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Classes are open to the public and payment is by donation. Look for Danielle Sirinsky on Facebook.

Purcellville-based EMILY LEDFORD

FITNESS & NUTRITION has switched out in-person classes for online workouts.

Ledford offers live 30-minute classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:45 am. Monthly fee is $29.99. Ledford also offers free mini-workouts if folks want to check out her approach in advance.

Go to facebook.com/emily.ledford.fitness.

Purcellville’s BURR STRENGTH AND

SHAKE IT continues on page 20

APRIL 2, 2020

LoCo Living Virtual Arts Update Loudoun Now is working hard to help you keep up with local artists, musicians and performers as we move through uncharted territory. Here are a few cool virtual projects, both ongoing and upcoming. Have something to add? Email calendar@loudounnow.com or list your virtual events at getoutloudoun.com.

Living Room Tunes Loudoun’s musicians continue to adapt with innovative virtual concerts.

Loudoun Unity II Virtual Concert On the heels of a successful virtual concert March 28, Loudoun’s BENEFIT non-profit is planning a second show Saturday, April 4 at 7 p.m. The next event will be hosted by Todd Wright and features performances from Ryan Bentron, Ryan Wright, Dave Mininberg, Bill Rose and Laurie Blue, MidLyfe’s Crisis and Michael O’Connor. Go to facebook.com/benefitloudoun.

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM a series featuring local celebrities from Wayde Byard to Justin Trawick reading children’s books out loud. Go to facebook. com/loudounliteracy.

Karlah Louis closed Main Street Theater last year, but she maintains a tightknit network of students and actors who have come together to read beloved bedtime stories and fairy tales through Louis’ Fairytale Moments initiative. The series features professional voice actor Matt Curtis reading “Green Eggs and Ham” and other Main Street favorites. Go to facebook.com/mainstreettheaterproductionsinc for a story.

Get Crafty The Clay and Metal Loft has announced an online Pinch Pot Nesting Bowls workshop so you can make an adorable set of bowls without a pottery wheel. Class takes place Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m. (or anytime after that). Cost is $42 and includes materials. Advance registration is required. Pick up materials in advance. Bowls will be fired and glazed by the studio. Go to facebook.com/theclayandmetalloft.

Start Lunch with the Arts Franklin Park Arts Center continues

PAGE 19 its daily lunchtime virtual arts series. All performances and demos start at noon.

This week’s line-up includes a comedic monologue from Rich Fink on Thursday, April 2; a film by local photographer Doug Graham on Friday, April 3; an artwork and origami demo from Elizabeth Reid on Saturday, April 4; a splotch monster artwork demo from Steve Loya on Sunday, April 5; a musical mini-concert by clarinetist Mike Hennesey on Monday, April 6; and a nature hike with filmmaker Andrew Ouellette on Tuesday, April 7. Go to facebook.com/franklinpark.artscenter. n

A Team of Experts...

Inside the Boundary

Andrew McKnight: Live from the Living Room Just last month, McKnight unveiled his new album and book “Treasures in My Chest” at Franklin Park Arts Center. Now he’s moving the show to the living room with a new virtual gig. McKnight performs songs from the new record Thursday, April 9 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Suggested donation is $15. Go to facebook. com/andrewmcknight.musician.

Chris Timbers Band Living Room Series Local favorite Chris Timbers has also launched a living room performance series. Go to facebook.com/christimbersfanpage for updates.

Doukenie Winery Saturday Sounds Doukenie Winery is taking its Saturday Sounds series online. The series kicked off with a performance by Emma Rowley last week and will continue through April and possibly May, with a schedule to be announced. Details are at facebook.com/ doukeniewinery.

Literary Love Want someone else to read to the littles while you get some work done? Loudoun’s literary and performing arts luminaries have got you covered.

The Loudoun Literacy Council offers

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Goodwill Hunting…

Cometh the hour cometh the county.

As Loudoun’s COVID-19 lockdown continues, devastating our tourism and hospitality industry, local businesses and residents have stepped up in inspiring and innovative ways to help soften the blow.

“They say a crisis brings out the best in people and we’re seeing that,” says Tony Stafford, owner of Loudoun’s iconic Ford’s Fish Shack restaurants which had to furlough 140 employees when Virginia restaurants moved to takeout only.

Yet Stafford has managed to feed all his staff for free and extend their health insurance for 60 days, thanks in large part to the Ford’s Family Fund he set up. The fund has raised $25,000 so far through donations, gift card sales and tips loyal customers have given. “It’s incredible.

We’re so grateful to our customers and the Loudoun community,” says Stafford. “Stay healthy, stay safe and keep supporting small business in Loudoun.”

In Purcellville meanwhile, Loudoun’s

Cabin fever continued from page 18 DMV) hungry for opportunities to get outside, things at some popular destinations are getting too close for comfort. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has asked Americans to stay off the trail for now, as favorite day hiking destinations get clogged with nature lovers. This includes Loudoun’s beloved Bear’s Den hike near Bluemont.

Fortunately, there are some less crowded options in and near Loudoun. Just be sure to use common sense and practice social distancing protocols when you visit.

• The non-profit Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship near Neers-

Shake it continued from page 18 PERFORMANCE offers classes for members as well as free Facebook Live workouts for non-members. There’s also a twice a week program designed for elementary and middle school kids at a fee of $15 per family. Go to facebook.com/burrstrength.

FITNESS IMAGE RESULTS, which offers in-person bootcamps around the county, now hosts online bootcamps every morning via Facebook Live. Go to facebook. com/fitnessimageresults.

world-renowned distillery Catoctin Creek switched from making award-winning rye to giving out free sanitizing alcohol to those in need, particularly first responders, hospitals and care facilities.

With box stores running out of disinfectant, the distillery has turned to bottling hand sanitizer which can now be purchased curbside, along with their whiskey and gin.

In a similar vein, Vino Bistro in the Village at Leesburg complex has launched a “Feed Our Heroes Box”, requesting $10

donations which will be used to cook and assemble lunch box meals for doctors and nurses at nearby Inova Loudoun Hospital ER. “Let’s give back to those risking their health and well-being to make sure we are healthy and well,” reads the campaign statement. “We want to keep our doctors and nurses on top of their game by providing a meal to nourish their bodies and warm their hearts.”

At the same time, AhSo Restaurant in Ashburn is donating 5 percent of all gift

ville at Loudoun’s northwestern edge offers 10 miles of hiking trails and lots of gorgeous scenery. For details, go to blueridgecenter. org.

• Morven Park in Leesburg has closed its main gates, parking areas and all buildings. However, the park’s pedestrian entrance on Old Waterford Road remains open for walkers to explore its 1,000 gorgeous acres. For more information go to morvenpark.org.

• The C&O towpath, managed by the National Park Service, remains open with access in Brunswick and Point of Rocks, MD, just across the Potomac from Loudoun. Buildings, restrooms and some parking lots are closed. For details, go to nps.gov/choh.

• As of March 24, Northern Virginia Park Authority parks are closed to vehicular access, but trail systems remain open.

Buildings, nature centers, playgrounds and other features are also closed. Popular NOVA Parks facilities include Brambleton Regional Park, the W&OD bike trail, Rust Sanctuary and others. For a list of parks and guidelines, go to novaparks.com

Loudouners are also working out online with these local favorites: Purcellville’s NOBLE ATHLETICS: facebook.com/nobleathleticsgym Ashburn’s ROCK FITNESS & PERFORMANCE: facebook.com/rockfitnessperformance CATOCTIN CROSSFIT: facebook.com/catoctincf.

hour free gardening seminar that aired March 28 is still available on her Facebook page. Dramby is planning another live event for Saturday, April 4. Go to facebook.com/debdramby.

Plant Something!

DEBORAH DRAMBY VIRTUAL GARDENING WORKSHOPS

Deborah Dramby of Bluemont. A two-

Plant Something Gardener and farmer Deborah Dramby of Bluemont is encouraging Loudouners to start gardens during the crisis. Dramby’s free two-hour gardening tutorial on Facebook Live last Saturday drew an overwhelming response with nearly 200 enthu-

VIRTUAL FARM TOUR AT PLANETARY FARMS

Check out Hillsboro’s new agro-adventure Planetary Farms, which specializes in growing a wide range of fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts and flowers. The farm is currently growing over 400 varieties of plants.

Its first virtual tour is scheduled for Sunday, April 5 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at facebook.com/planetaryfarm.

APRIL 2, 2020

card sales to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases to help in the creation of a vaccine for COVID-19, while another Ashburn restaurant, Red’s BBQ & Pizzeria, sent their portable BBQ pit food truck out one afternoon last week to serve free ribs, pulled pork and smoked chicken to those in need.

All of which inspires Visit Loudoun CEO Beth Erickson.

“The fallout from COVID-19 has been heartbreaking but every day we’re seeing the love, pride, creativity, generosity and hope of our community.”

Last week Erickson announced the launch of the Visit Loudoun Foundation Tourism & Hospitality Relief Fund to help the 18,000+ people in the tourism hospitality industry in Loudoun who are struggling as a result of the crisis. The Visit Loudoun Foundation seeded the fund with $10,000 and the Loudoun Chamber Foundation has launched a $5,000 pledge match campaign.

To donate, go to http://www.visitloudoun.org/relief-fund or https://communityfoundationlf.org/product/tandhfund. n

siasts tuning in. That tutorial is still available to the public on Dramby’s Facebook page, and she’s planning additional shorter videos in coming weeks, including a “Plant a Pizza Garden” workshop on small-scale container gardening. For Dramby, passing on knowledge is important, but she’s discovered that she’s also creating community.

“That’s been the most magical part,” Dramby said. “Having all these conversations open with people about their gardens. ... I think our biggest lesson was that people are missing interaction. A lot of people wrote saying it was nice to feel normal again.”

To check out Deborah Dramby’s gardening seminar, go to facebook.com/debdramby. n

Cook Something ZAZA ZOOM COOKING CLASSES AT PETITE LOULOU

Purcellville’s Petite Loulou is offering a series of interactive Zoom cooking classes for adults and children of all ages.

Upcoming classes include Cadbury Egg Croissants on Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. and homemade Nutella (yes you read that right) on Wednesday, April 8 at 2 p.m.

Tickets range from $15 to $20. Pick up class kits at the restaurant before the class.

Go to facebook.com/petitlouloucafe. n

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APRIL 2, 2020

Middleburg relief continued from page 1 a one-time credit, meaning those whose bills come in less than $200 will owe the town noting on their next bills, but will be obligated to pay their bills on the next cycle. If the town had issued the credits in the last billing cycle, they would have paid out $65,000 to utility customers, given the range of bills that came in between $200 and $1,000.

That utility relief was granted because, according to a staff report, the town anticipates that water customers’ bills will be higher than in prior years because many residents are spending more time at home and washing their hands more frequently.

Town Administrator Danny Davis said the town could reverse individual credits to use to help the broader community if certain utility customers are comfortable paying their bills in full. He said residents can also donate money to the Health Center Fund to help the community as needed.

The town will also purchase up to $100,000 worth of $20 meal vouchers to distribute to residents to use between now and April 30 at any restaurant that has partnered with the town and is open at least four days a week for at least two meals a day. The town will purchase up to 500

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

The Town of Middleburg is pumping $182,000 back into its local economy via credits to utility customers, meal vouchers to residents, meals tax deferrals to restaurants and donations to nonprofits.

vouchers—$10,000 worth—at each participating restaurant.

Davis said the town would mail the vouchers, which Mr. Print will create for a few hundred dollars, to each residential utility customer. Davis said the town staff would “do a little digging” to find and send vouchers to residents who don’t have utility bills. Littleton noted that each customer would most likely receive one voucher from each participating restaurant.

Residents must spend the full $20 at each restaurant and will not be allowed to spend less than that amount to save the change to pay for another meal at a later date.

PAGE 21

Littleton said he talked to restaurant owners who were planning to close this week but resolved to stay open through the end of April in light of the town’s meal voucher program.

“It is going to have immediate impact on some of the businesses being able to keep their doors open,” he said, noting that the vouchers should be sent out within the next few days.

At the April 23 Town Council meeting, the council will assess the effectiveness of the voucher program and decide if it should purchase more.

The council also voted to defer penalties on payment of the 4-percent meals tax through June 30. The town will still charge interest on all late payments—10-percent annually, or 0.833-percent each month— to ensure that each restaurant remits the taxes “within a reasonable period of time,” according to a staff report. Restaurants are also still required to submit their gross receipts by the 20th of each month to give the town an idea of how much they owe.

The town’s Fiscal Year 2020 budget expects to bring in about $1 million in meals tax revenue, meaning the town will temporarily miss out on close to $260,000, but hopes to recoup that loss once restaurants remit the meals tax, and with interest.

Last on the relief package list is an $8,750 town donation to the Visit Loudoun

Foundation’s Tourism & Hospitality Relief Fund at the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties to assist hospitality industry employees during the coronavirus crisis. Although Visit Loudoun indicated that it did not intend to ask the town for its fourth quarter payment because both lodging properties in town are closed, the town recognized that restaurant and lodging staffers are “significantly challenged in this time,” according to a staff report.

The town will additionally donate $4,000 to Middleburg FISH—a nonprofit assisted by the Emmanuel Episcopal Church that provides temporary financial assistance to those in need—to aid its work supporting about 53 families amid the pandemic for the next 10 weeks, and another $4,000 to the Seven Loaves Services food pantry to support its online food purchase and delivery. The food pantry serves about 100 families each week through that program.

The town will also donate up to $2,000 to the Backpack Buddies Foundation if the nonprofit requests the money after Davis contacts its leaders.

Littleton labeled the relief package as “substantial and incredibly meaningful.”

“I think that’s going to be really meaningful for so many people,” he said. “It’s what Middleburg’s about.” n

Legal Notices ABC LICENSE

ABC LICENSE

Hidden View Bed & Breakfast, LLC, trading as Hidden View Bed & Breakfast, 36474 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132-2739

Hidden View Bed & Breakfast, LLC, trading as Hidden View Bed & Breakfast, 36474 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132-2739

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

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

Ray & Cheri Shields, Owners/Partners

Ray & Cheri Shields, Owners/Partners

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.

03/26 & 04/02/20

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.

03/26 & 04/02/20

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

Case No.:

Case No.:

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

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

19-1188

Loudoun County Circuit Court 18 East Market St., Leesburg VA 20176

,

Heather Elizabeth Salyer /v.

Brandon Lawrence Salyer The object of this suit is to obtain a divorce.

It is ORDERED that Brandon Lawrence Salyer, appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before Friday June 5, 2020.

LoudounNow.com

4/2, 4/9, 4/16 & 4/23/20

JJ035094-05-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

,

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Isabel Sarai Cruz Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v.

Manuel de Jesus Salamanca, putative father The object of this suit is to hold a 2nd permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Isabel Sarai Cruz.

It is ORDERED that Manuel de Jesus Salamanca, putative father, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before April 21, 2020 at 2:00 pm.

3/12, 3/19, 3/26 & 4/2

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 22

APRIL 2, 2020

Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING The LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on the first floor of the County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following:

ZRTD-2019-0007 BEAUMEADE CIRCLE PROPERTIES

SPEX-2019-0030 BANFIELD PET HOSPITAL

Beaumeade Properties LLC, of Reston, Virginia, has submitted an application to rezone approximately 18.33 acres from the PD-IP (Planned Development-Industrial Park) zoning district under the 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, in order to permit all principal and accessory uses permitted in the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance at a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.6 (up to 1.0 by Special Exception). The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, within the Route 28 Corridor Optional Overlay District, and within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay district, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours.

The subject property is approximately 18.33 acres in size and is located east of Cape Court, on the west side of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607) and on the southeast side of Beaumeade Circle (Route 3037) in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as:

Medical Management International, Inc., of Minnetonka, Minnesota, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit an Animal Hospital use in the PC-CC-SC (Planned Development-Commercial Center-Small Regional Center) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 4-204(C) (1) and more specifically under 4-204(B)(11). The subject property is located partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District) and contains moderate steep slopes. The subject property is approximately 9.529 acres in size and is located on the south side of Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7), east of North Sterling Boulevard (Route 846), and west of Dranesville Road (Route 228), at 21800 Towncenter Plaza, Sterling, Virginia, in the Sterling Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 01439-1743. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use place type)), which designate this area for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural and Recreational uses.

(Special Exception)

(Zoning Conversion in the Route 28 Taxing District)

PIN

PROPERTY ADDRESS

061-40-4434

N/A

061-40-8640

N/A

061-30-3196

N/A

The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area, Suburban Employment Place Type), which supports a broad array of Employment uses at a recommended FAR of up to 1.0.

SPEX-2019-0050

& CMPT-2019-0006 INVISIBLE TOWERS–KARMEN (Special Exception & Commission Permit)

Invisible Towers LLC, of Waterford, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) Commission approval to permit a 199-foot tall Telecommunications Monopole and associated ground equipment in the AR-1 (Agricultural Rural-1) zoning district; and 2) A Special Exception to permit a 199-foot tall Telecommunications Monopole in the AR-1 zoning district. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Table 2-102 and requires a Commission Permit in accordance with Section 6-1101. The modification of the Buffer Yard and Screening requirements applicable to the proposed monopole use is authorized as part of the Special Exception under Section 5-1409(B)(2), Waivers and Modifications, pursuant to which the Applicant requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION

PROPOSED MODIFICATION

§5-1404(B), Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscaping Plans, Buffer Yards, Use Buffer Yard Matrix, Table 5-1404(B).

Eliminate the required Type C buffer yard landscaping around the equipment at the base monopole.

The subject property is an approximately 1.59 acre portion of an approximately 163.88 acre parcel and is located on the south side of Lovettsville Road (Route 672), and the north side of Yakey Lane (Route 667) in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 216-356684.The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for mostly Agricultural and Agricultural supportive uses with limited Residential development at a recommended density of up to one dwelling units per 20 acres.

SIDP-2019-0008 LOVETTSVILLE HOME ASSISTED LIVING (Sign Development Plan)

Lovettsville Home Assisted Living, of Lovettsville, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Sign Development Plan to request alternative sign regulations for permitted signs in order to modify Table 5-1204(D), Sign Requirements Matrix, to increase the maximum area of any one Residential Name Sign from 2 square feet to 15.8 square feet. The subject property is being developed pursuant to ZMAP-2005-0042, Rural Policy Area Remapping, located in the AR-1 (Agricultural Rural – 1) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and pursuant to Section 5-1202(E) alternative sign regulations for permitted signs may be requested with the submission of a Sign Development Plan. The subject property is approximately 3 acres in size and is located east of Berlin Turnpike (Route 287) and west of Milltown Road (Route 681), at 39196 Rodeffer Road, Lovettsville, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 372-48-8868. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for Rural Economy uses and limited Residential development.

SPEX-2019-0028 ROLLINS PROPERTY (Special Exception)

Robert B. Rollins, III of Middleburg, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit a data center use in the CLI (Commercial Light Industry) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 3-904(CC). The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, within the Ldn 65 or higher and between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours, and is also located within the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District – Chantilly Crush Stone Note Area. The subject property is approximately 9.55 acres in size and is located on the south side of John Mosby Highway (Route 50) and the north side of Eastgate View Drive (Route 3010), at 43735 and 43743 John Mosby Highway, Chantilly, Virginia, in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 09736-1753. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Commercial Place Type)), which designate this area for larger format retail Commercial establishments and smaller Commercial establishments within a “main street” style environment.

Unless otherwise noted above, full and complete copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances and/or plans, and related documents may be examined in the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703-777-0220, or electronically at www.loudoun. gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications.

Additionally, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically the week before the hearing at www. loudoun.gov/pc. For further information, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246.

Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246 prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Planning Commission, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to loudounpc@loudoun.gov. If written comments are presented at the hearing, please provide ten (10) copies for distribution to the Commission and the Clerk’s records. All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Any individual representing and/or proposing to be the sole speaker on behalf of a citizen’s organization or civic association is encouraged to contact the Department of Planning and Zoning prior to the date of the public hearing if special arrangements for additional speaking time and/or audio-visual equipment will be requested. Such an organization representative will be allotted 6 minutes to speak, and the Chairman may grant additional time if the request is made prior to the date of the hearing and the need for additional time is reasonably justified.

Citizens are encouraged to call the Department of Planning and Zoning on the day of the public hearing to confirm that an item is on the agenda, or, the most current agenda may be viewed on the Planning Commission’s website at www.loudoun.gov/pc. In the event that the second Thursday is a holiday or the meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be moved to the third Tuesday of the month. In the event that Tuesday is a holiday or the Tuesday meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be held on the following Thursday. The meeting will be held at a place determined by the Chairman.

Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings at all other locations. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246. Please provide three days’ notice.

BY ORDER OF:

ERIC COMBS, CHAIRMAN LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

03/26 & 04/02/20

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

APRIL 2, 2020

Legal Notices

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary/record plat of subdivision for the following project.

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.

SBPR-2020-0002 One Loudoun Land Bay B-72 Residential

YR.

Mr. William May, of One Loudoun Holdings, LLC, of McLean Virginia is requesting preliminary/record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately two point eight one three (2.813) acres into twenty-seven (27) single family attached lots, open space parcels and accompanying easements. The property is located at the south-west corner of the intersection of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607) and Marblehead Drive (Route 2276). The property is zoned R-16 ADU (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential- 16 with Affordable Dwelling Units) and AIOD (Airport Impact Overlay District) under the provisions of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as Tax Map /63///872///2/ (MCPI # 058-20-9286) and Tax Map /63///872///1/ (MCPI # 05820-6677) in the Broad Run Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the Loudoun Online Land Applications System www.loudoun.gov/LOLA by searching for SBPR-2020-0002. Complete copies of the above referenced application(s) are also available for public review at the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, Land Development File Room, 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic physical public access to the file may be interrupted. You may contact the project manager to arrange for alternative access to the file if necessary. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Eric Jewell at eric.jewell@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development, 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by May 7, 2020. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary/record subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.09 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

4/2/20

1997 2003 2003 2003 1997 2002

MAKE

HONDA HONDA JEEP JEEP HONDA DODGE

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

Leesburg Office 1 Harrison Street SE First Floor Sterling Office 21641 Ridgetop Circle Suite 100 Internet: www.loudoun.gov/taxrelief Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, M - F Phone: 703-737-8557 Email: trcor@loudoun.gov Mailing Address: PO Box 8000, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20177-9804 3/26, 4/2, 4/9, 5/7, 5/21 & 5/28/20

VIN

2HGEJ6675VH569330 1HGES16543L035380 1J8GL58K93W554267 1J4FA29163P315874 JHMEJ6573VS004632 1B7GL12X52S530882

STORAGE

AL’S TOWING ASHBURN TOWING ROADRUNNER TOWING ROADRUNNER TOWING D&M TOWING D&M TOWING

PHONE#

703-435-2467 703-585-8770 703-450-7555 703-450-7555 703-471-4590 703-471-4590 04/02 & 04/09/20

OFFICIAL VOTING INFORMATION The Constitution of Virginia requires that you be registered in the precinct in which you live in order to be qualified to vote.

For the convenience of the citizens of Loudoun County, the Voter Registration Office at 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C, Leesburg, is open each week Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

In order to be eligible to vote in the Town Election to be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, you must register no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13.

The office at 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C, Leesburg, will be open on Saturday, May 2 from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. for the convenience of registered voters who need to vote by absentee ballot for this election. Expect delays as our office will only offer curbside absentee voting at this time.

May 2, 2020 is the last day for this election on which qualified applicants may vote absentee ballots in person.

Judith Brown, General Registrar 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C Leesburg, Virginia 20175-8916 703-777-0380 Email: vote@loudoun.gov Website: www.loudoun.gov/vote

Robert S. Wertz, Jr.

The deadline for residents 65 and older or totally and permanently disabled who are required to complete a 2020 Renewal Application or Renewal Certification, is June 1, 2020.

The renewal filing deadline of April 1, 2020 was extended in response to the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19).

MODEL

CIVIC CIVIC LIBERTY WRANGLER CIVIC DAKOTA

You are encouraged to make application for voter registration. Please call us at the number shown below should you have any questions. Remember, a good citizen registers and votes!

A message to elderly and disabled Loudoun County residents from Commissioner of the Revenue

PAGE 23

ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.:

JJ038628-13-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS: ,

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Sanay Elliyoun-Yousefabad Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v.

Shahnaz Zabihi Khodapasand, mother The object of this suit is to hold a 5th permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Sanay Elliyoun-Yousefabad.

It is ORDERED that Shahnaz Zabihi Khodapasand, mother, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before May 12, 2020 at 3:00 pm.

4/2, 4/9, 4/16 & 4/23/20

Town residents are encourage to register to vote or update their address or apply for an absentee ballot on-line at - www.elections.virginia.gov.

Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, Purcellville and Round Hill town registered voters are encouraged to apply online for an absentee ballot using the Virginia Absentee Ballot Application and Reason Code 2A to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). For those without access to the internet, please contact our office at 703 777-0380 to request the absentee ballot application be mailed to you. Town residents are encouraged to apply now to allow enough time to receive and return the marked ballot by Election Day, Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

Please Note: Town elections for Hillsboro and Leesburg have been moved from May to November.

All town voters are reminded that strict social distancing measures will be in place on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at all polling places. Voters should remain at least 6 feet apart and only 10 people will be allowed in the polling place at any given time. Voters should expect delays when voting in person on Election Day. Town voters are encouraged to vote by mail.

The Town of Purcellville election on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 for Mayor and Town Council has been moved to the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink.

The Town of Lovettsville election on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 for Mayor and Town Council has been moved to the Lovettsville Game Protective Association (Game Club).

Visit www.loudoun.gov/vote for more information.

04/02 & 04/09/20

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 24

APRIL 2, 2020

Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING

The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, at 6:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, April 15, 2020 in order to consider:

PROPOSED ORDINANCE TO SUSPEND CERTAIN DEADLINES AND TO MODIFY PUBLIC MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES TO ADDRESS CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC DISASTER In accordance with Virginia Code § 15.2-1427(F), the Board of Supervisors gives notice of its intention to adopt an ordinance pursuant to Virginia Code § 15.2-1413 to address continuity of government operations during the COVID-19 emergency/disaster by modifying public meeting and public hearing requirements for, and suspending deadlines applicable to County government, the Board of Supervisors, and other public bodies and entities created by the Board of Supervisors or to which the Board of Supervisors appoints members (“Public Entities”). In particular, the ordinance would allow Public Entities to conduct public meetings and public hearings without a quorum being physically present in one location, during the COVID-19 emergency/disaster. Upon adoption, this ordinance will supersede and replace the Emergency Ordinance adopted by the Board of Supervisors on March 25, 2020, and in accordance with Virginia Code § 15.2-1413, will remain in effect for no longer than six months.

A complete copy of the full text of the above-referenced proposed ordinance is on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the County Administrator, County Government Center, 5th Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or call (703) 777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 258 AND CORRESPONDING REPEAL OF CHAPTERS 250, 251 and 254 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF LOUDOUN COUNTY Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System Fire Marshal Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Line of Duty

Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-1427, the Board of Supervisors gives notice of its intention to amend Chapter 258, Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System, and repeal Chapters 250, 251 and 254, Fire Marshall, Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services, and Line of Duty , of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County. The proposed amendments include revisions in sections 258.03 Definitions, 258.05 Recognized Fire and Rescue Companies (Line of Duty), 258.04 Governance Structure and 258.06 Chain of Command/Certification Standards to reflect 1) a title change from Loudoun County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management (DFREM) to “Loudoun County Fire and Rescue” (LCFR); 2) updates the titles of DFREM Assistant Chief to “Assistant Chief of Support Services and Volunteer Administration” and career DFREM deputy chief of operations to “LCFR Assistant Chief of Operations” in section 258.04(b) Governance Structure; 3) revises the words career DFREM deputy chief of EMS to “LCFR deputy chief of the Fire Marshal’s Office” in section 258.04(b) Governance Structure; 3) amends board of Chiefs to “board of Directors” in section 258.04(c) Governance Structure;4) removes Middleburg Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. in section 258.05(a) Recognized Fire and Rescue Companies (Line of Duty);5) amends Arcola-Pleasant Valley Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. to “Arcola Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.” and The Sterling Park Rescue Squad, Inc. to “Sterling Park Rescue Squad, Inc.” in section 258.05(a) Recognized Fire and Rescue Companies (Line of Duty); 5) amends The Loudoun County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management to “Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, a department of the Loudoun County Government” in section 258.05(b) Recognized Fire and Rescue Companies (Line of Duty) ;6) amends their official duties to “themselves” in section 258.07(a) Code of Conduct and Discipline; 7) establishes new sections titled 258.10 Authorization for Certain Minors to Participate in Activities of Volunteer Company and 258.11 Tuition Reimbursement for Volunteer Members of the Combined Fire and Rescue System; and proposes to repeal Chapter 250 Fire Marshal, Chapter 251 Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services and Chapter 254 Line of Duty in its entirety. The repeal of these chapters is to consolidate Chapters 250, 251, and 254 into the single governing ordinance in Chapter 258 while also preserving the language of Chapters 250, 251 and 254.

A complete copy of the full text of the above-referenced proposed ordinance for the amendments to Chapter 258 and repeal of Chapters 250, 251, and 254 is on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the County Administrator, County Government Center, 5th Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or call (703) 777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun. gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).

RDAB-2019-0006 PROPOSED ABANDONMENT OF A SECTION OF EXPEDITION DRIVE (ROUTE 3425), AND CONVEYANCE OF ABANDONED RIGHT-OF-WAY Pursuant to Virginia Code §33.2-915, the Board of Supervisors hereby gives notice that it intends to consider the proposed abandonment of a section of Expedition Drive (the “Subject Section”). The Subject Section is not within the Secondary State Highway System, is not improved, and consists of approximately

1,648 square feet (0.03783 acre) of dedicated right-of-way. The Subject Section is located on the south side of the existing southern terminus of Expedition Drive (Route 3425), south of the intersection of Everfield Drive (Route 3423) and Expedition Drive, and west of the intersection of Fleetwood Road (Route 616) and Everfield Drive, in the Blue Ridge Election District. Pursuant to Virginia Code §33.2-924, the Board of Supervisors also shall consider the proposed conveyance of the abandoned right-of-way to an adjacent landowner for consideration and/or in exchange for other lands that may be necessary for the uses of Loudoun County.

Copies of the plats, and any associated documents, describing the proposed abandonment and conveyance are available for review and may be examined at the Office of the County Administrator, County Government Center, 5th Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or call (703) 777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).

SPEX-2019-0021 7-ELEVEN SOUTH RIDING (Special Exception)

7-Eleven, Inc., of Irving, Texas, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit a Car Wash use in the PD-CC-NC (Planned Development – Commercial Center – Neighborhood Center) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 4-204(A). The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60, aircraft noise contours and the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District-Chantilly Crush Stone Note Area. The subject property is approximately 2.132 acres in size and is located north of Tall Cedars Parkway (Route 2200), south of John Mosby Highway (Route 50) and east of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 606) at 25140 Loudoun County Pkwy., Chantilly, Virginia, in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 164-105-637-001. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Neighborhood Place Type)) which designate this area for predominately Residential uses with complementary Retail and Service Commercial uses.

SIDP-2019-0007 HAMILTON SAFETY CENTER (Sign Development Plan)

Hamilton Volunteer Fire and Rescue of Hamilton, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Sign Development Plan to request alternate sign regulations for permitted signs in order to modify Table 5-1204(D), Sign Requirements Matrix, to increase the total aggregate sign area, increase maximum sign area of any one sign, and permit illumination permitted for a public/quasi-public sign. The subject property is being developed pursuant to SPEX-2003-0024, Hamilton Safety Center, and STPL-2003-0017, Hamilton Safety Center, located in the RC (Rural Commercial) and JLMA-1 (Joint Land Management Area – 1) zoning districts under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and pursuant to Section 5-1202(E) alternate sign regulations for permitted signs may be requested with the submission of a Sign Development Plan.

The subject property is approximately 10.54 acres in size and is located on the south side of East Colonial Highway (Route 7) and east of Harmony Church Road (Route 704) at 39071 East Colonial Highway, Hamilton, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 382-27-7245. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for Agricultural and Rural Economy uses, and limited Residential development at a recommended density of one dwelling unit per 20 acres.

ZMAP-2018-0009, SPEX-2018-0025, & ZMOD-2018-0043 TWIN CREEKS (Zoning Map Amendment Petition, Special Exception, Zoning Modification)

Twin Creeks Development, LLC., of Great Falls, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) To rezone approximately 60.00 acres from the JLMA3 (Joint Land Management Area–3) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PDGI (Planned Development–General Industry) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to permit the development of all principal and accessory uses permitted in the PD-GI zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance at a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.40 (up to 0.6 by Special Exception); and 2) A Special Exception to permit an increase to the maximum FAR from 0.40 to 0.60. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed uses are listed as a Special Exception use under Section 4606.

The Applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION §5-1403(B), Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks, Road Corridor Buffer and Setbacks Matrix, Table 5-1403(B), Other Major Collector Roads.

PROPOSED MODIFICATION Reduce the minimum setbacks along Gloucester Parkway extension (Route 2150) from 75 feet to 35 feet for buildings and from 35 feet to 25 feet for parking.

HOR

Two large st just outside multiple pas quality grass owners on p Minimum tw 703-201-09

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

APRIL 2, 2020

PAGE 25

Legal Notices The subject property is located within the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District-Luck Note Area and partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District). The subject property is approximately 60.00 acres in size and is located on the southeast side of Cochran Mill Road (Route 653) at its intersection with Durham Court (Route 862), northwest of the confluence of Goose Creek and Sycolin Creek in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 151-49-4358 and PIN: 15149-2686. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Joint Land Management Area (Leesburg JLMA Employment Place Type)), which designate this area for a range of Light and General Industry uses at a recommended FAR of up to 1.0.

SPEX-2018-0029, SPEX-2018-0030, SPEX-2018-0031, & SPEX-2018-0032 MC DEAN PROPERTY (Special Exceptions)

Blue Knob Investors, LLC., of Rockville, Maryland, has submitted applications for the following: 1) A Special Exception to permit an Automotive Service Station; 2) A Special Exception to permit Retail Sales establishment(s); 3) A Special Exception to permit Restaurant(s); and 4) A Special Exception to permit Restaurant(s) with a drive-through, all in the CLI (Commercial Light Industry) zoning district. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed uses are listed as Special Exception uses under Section 3-904. The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 11.42 acres in size and is located on the south side of John Mosby Highway (Route 50), West of Pleasant Valley Road (Route 609), and east of Tall Cedars Parkway (Route 2200) in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as follows: PIN

PROPERTY ADDRESS

097-29-6923

25575 & 25567 Pleasant Valley Road, Chantilly VA

097-19-4565

44075 & 44057 John Mosby Hwy , Chantilly VA

The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type)), which designate this area for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural and Recreational amenities, and Office uses at a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) up to 1.0. Additional density (up to 1.5 FAR) may be achieved through the provision of additional project elements.

ZMAP-2019-0011, SPEX-2019-0023, & SPEX-2019-0024 LOUDOUN MUTUAL

Loudoun Mutual Insurance Company, of Waterford, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) To rezone approximately 3.13 acres from the CR-2 (Countryside Residential–2) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the RC (Rural Commercial) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to expand an existing corporate office building; 2) A Special Exception to allow the expansion of the existing building from 14,784 square feet to 24,584 square feet; and 3) A Special Exception to reduce the required number of parking from 4 spaces/1,000 square feet to 2.1 spaces/1,000 square feet. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use to allow any one permitted use in excess of 10,000 square feet is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 2-904(A) and the Special Exception to reduce the required number of parking spaces is allowed pursuant to Section 5-1100, Table 5-1102. The subject property is located within the VDOD (Village Conservation Overlay District) and HCC(Historic and Cultural Conservation Overlay District). The subject property is approximately 3.13 acres in size and is located on the west side of High Street (Route 665) south of Janney Street (Route 806) and west of Second Street (Route 662), at 15609 High Street Waterford, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 30316-7107. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural Historic Villages Place Type)), which designate this area for Residential and Non Residential uses.

Unless otherwise noted in the above notices, full and complete copies of the abovereferenced amendments, applications, ordinances, and/or plans, and related documents may be examined in the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, County Government Center, 2nd Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or call 703-7770220 or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).

All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on April 3, 2020, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on April 15, 2020. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. Citizens will also have the option to sign-up at the public hearing.

Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings.

BY ORDER OF:

(Zoning Map Amendment Petition & Special Exceptions)

Misc.

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Construction CONSTRUCTION C ustom C onstruCtion A dditions • r epAirs Blue Ridge Remodeling, Inc. 540-668-6522

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PAGE 26

APRIL 2, 2020

Resource Directory Construction LOUDOUN

CONSTRUCTION GROUP

Construction

Construction

Francisco Rojo Cell: 571-213-0850 571-235-8304

GENERAL CONTRACTORS

Licensed-Insured-Bonded

AQS CONTRACTING

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Finished Basement - Custom Audio/Visual Rooms General Painting - Kitchen & Bath Remodels Finish Carpentry - Sunrooms & Decks General Handyman Services - References Available

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Loudoun-Construction.com | Leesburg, VA

Driveway Repair

Decks Cristian Arias C & BROTHERS

contractor VA, DC HIC LISENCE

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240-413-5827 240-413-5873 www.candbrothers.com

LEESBURG, VA

Excavating

J.DREYERS EXCAVATING

Licensed & Insured and RLD Certified

Land Clearing • Roadways • Ponds • Riding Arenas • Demolition • Foundations Drainage Solutions • Under Drains • Large Pipe & Stream Crossing Boulder Placement • Storm Damage Cleanup • Large Stump Removal Laser Fine Grading • Earth Sculpting • Top Soil • Fill Dirt • Stone Hauling

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GARAGE DOORS Garage Doors

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Dentistry

The Good Guys

Purcellville Purcellville Pediatric Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry

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Asphalt Driveway Restoration

Nooshin Monajemy, Monajemy, D.D.S. Nooshin D.D.S.

• Best Asphalt Crack Filling • Patchwork • Best Oil-Based Heated Sealcoating • The Real Asphalt Preservative is Oil-Based Sealer • Not Just A Cosmetic Sealer Like Others • Oil-Based Sealer Preserves Asphalt • Offering Brand New Asphalt Driveways (Small driveways only) • 2" Overlays/Resurfacing

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17333 Pickwick Suite A Purcellville, VADr, 20132 Purcellville, VA 20132 www.novatoothfairy.com

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Fencing

Loving Fence

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WESLEY LOVING 1824 HARMONY CHURCH RD HAMILTON, VA 20158

Flooring OCHOA’S FLOORING

CARPET INSTALLATION - FLOOR INSTALLATION Hardwood Re-finishing - Laminate Installation

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703-597-6163 AngelOchoa1103@Yahoo.com Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OchoasFlooring

Hair Salon HAIR SALON

Gutters

Perm, Haircut for women, men, and children

PROFESSIONAL COLOR AND FOIL HIGHLIGHT PROM, BRIDAL, MAKEUP, UPDO

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(703) 443-1237

Please call KELLY for an appointment.

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HANDYMAN Handyman

Handyman General Contractor

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Heating & Air Conditioning

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C & Brothers Home Improvement, LLC 20 Years of Experience FRE Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling, ESTIMATEE S! Decks, General Handyman Services Cristian Arias 240-413-5827 | 240-413-5673 candbrothers@gmail.com

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Handyman

Handyman

For more than 30 years, Falcon Heating and Air Conditioning has been a leading residential HVAC company, providing the VA, MD and DC area with exceptional customer service and quality work

FalconHVAC.com

Handyman/Master Craftsman Licensed. Insured.

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Junk Removal

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Residential, Farm & Commercial Junk Removal Services, Rolloff Dumpster Services.

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Decks & Patios Basements Quality Builds Trust Owner Operated

mainstreet-home-improvement.com

Since 2000.

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HAULING

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APRIL 2, 2020

PAGE 27

Resource Directory LAWN CARE Lawn Care

Lawn Care

Lawn Care Flynn’s Lawn Maintenance

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ACTING.COM

Professional, certified and experienced gardener.

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nterior/ xterior Home epairs

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Weeding, Trimming & Edging • Planting & Mulching 15% OFF any Tree & Shrub Trimming • Spring & Fall Clean-Up lawn care Lawn Cutting And Many More Please Ask Us! services w/ this ad

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Veterans LLC

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Call or text us today for your

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Basement Finishing Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Granite/Marble Installation Interior/Exterior Carpentry Crown Molding Rotted Wood Repair/ Replacement Hardwood Floor Installation, Sanding & Refinishing Carpet Installation Power Washing

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ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 28

APRIL 2, 2020

Opinion The Non-Rosy Scenario All local governments are entering the final stretch of their fiscal year 2021 budget deliberations. Most of the preliminary work that forms the foundation of the spending plans was completed during the pre-COVID era. The landscape has changed significantly for governments, too, in recent weeks.

Not only have several sources of local revenue—user and service fees and taxes—suddenly dried up, many localities have tapped into reserve funds and anticipated surpluses to provide emergency relief to staff members and vital community needs.

There remains optimism for an economic bounce-back before the start of the new budget year on July 1, but this crisis has been defined by its uncertainty and it is hard to bet on business as usual returning so quickly.

The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on the county’s

Not Good Enough

$3 billion spending plan next week. To the county’s credit, the staff is working on a contingency plan that recognizes the chance— perhaps likelihood—of significant revenue shortfalls. The concept of establishing a $100 million contingency fund has merit. While a relatively small portion of the overall budget, the reserve would provide an important buffer should the economy worsen beyond current projections.

Under the current plan, up to $60 million would be earmarked for school operations and up to $40 million for the general county government. It is hard to imagine at this point, after months of generally rosy budget debates, how either side of the county government will reduce costs so deeply if that revenue fails to materialize. However, the consequences would be far more dire if they entered the year without acknowledging this new economic reality.

Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.com Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC 15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176 PO Box 207 • Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723

EDITORIAL Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com

LETTERS to the Editor

n

Editor: Now with coronavirus in our midst, many of us totally rely on our internet connections to get our work done and communicate with colleagues and friends. And in the evening, we’re grateful for the seamless entertainment the internet provides. However, few people realize the extraordinary amount of dirty energy all this activity runs on.

Big data centers, the backbone of the digital economy, need huge amounts of energy. Loudoun County hosts the highest concentration of computing centers in the world: 70 percent of the entire internet content passes through Loudoun. According to a Greenpeace report, the total power demand of the data centers in Loudoun County is almost 4.5 gigawatts—roughly the same power output as nine 500-megawatt coal power plants. These 4.5 gigawatts are largely supplied by Dominion, and largely by fossil fuels. Each of Loudoun over 70 data centers also owns back-up diesel

Jan Mercker, Reporter jmercker@loudounnow.com Kara C. Rodriguez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Patrick Szabo, Reporter pszabo@loudounnow.com

generators. Digital Realty has a whooping 139. None of these generators have pollution controls. Diesel combustion gives rise to ozone which contributes to the region›s smog.

Dominion, the supplier of most of Loudoun County’s electricity, uses about two thirds fossil fuels, one third nuclear power, and less than 4 percent renewable energy. Dominion has used rising data center demand to justify costly new investments in fossil fuel infrastructure, notably a 600-mile Atlantic Coast Pipeline to deliver fracked gas into Virginia and North Carolina. If built, this pipeline would lock Virginia into decades more of dirty energy—despite the recently passed Virginia Clean Economy Act of 2020, which directs the construction of 16,100 MW of solar power and onshore wind by 2035, bringing the state’s utility-delivered power to 100 percent renewable energy by 2045. Ratepayers will be footing much the bill. It has been said that this law will end up preserving through various clausLETTERS continues on page 29

ADVERTISING Susan Styer, Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.com Tonya Harding, Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.com

Loudoun Now is delivered by mail to more than 44,000 Loudoun homes and businesses, with a total weekly distribution of 47,000.

APRIL 2, 2020

I am a Turtle

BY R.C.

Note: Writer Chris Croll is dedicating her newspaper column each month to a student who bravely, and in their own words, shares what it’s really like to be a teenager growing up in Loudoun County. Submit your story at BeingATeenInLoudoun@gmail.com School was an absolute nightmare; a dream I could never wake up from. Even though I kept trying my hardest, I got F’s on every test. After years of this emotional torture, I finally looked at myself and knew there was something wrong with me. Like a turtle, I wanted to retreat inside my shell and never come out.

My parents had always told me I was smart, and deep down I knew it myself, but my grades didn’t reflect this. I didn’t know how to show the world how smart I was. Inside, where no one could see, I was a perfectionist; outside, I was being blamed for being lazy. I had to find some way of being good at something, so I found loopholes and developed unhealthy

LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 28 es and loopholes most of Virginia’s coal and natural gas plants and gas pipelines, perhaps for most of their useful lives, as it places no outright moratorium on new fossil fuel construction like pipelines or compression stations.

This is not good enough. Climate scientists have warned that we must phase out fossil fuels and transition to clean energy in the next 12 years to stay below 1.5 degrees Celsius of total warming.

Loudoun can do better. Iowa also hosts clusters of big data centers and these have significantly invested in clean energy. Wind turbines provide one third of Iowa’s electricity.

Since 2012, 20 large tech companies, including Amazon Web Services, have promised to transition to renewable energy. Already all Apple’s retail stores, data centers and corporate offices worldwide run on 100 percent clean energy. However, Amazon Web Services, Dominion’s largest customer, has backslid on its 2014 pledge to use 100 percent renewable energy to power its cloud.

So what do we do about it? Greenpeace recommends users of the internet platforms that rely on AWS to urge AWS

ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM

habits. I started putting others down with hurtful comments, trying to make myself feel better; I also started bragging to build myself up. Things were spiraling out of control.

By the end of third grade, I got tested and was diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD and dysgraphia. I was confused because I didn’t know what these words meant. After my mom explained, I was too embarrassed to tell anyone because I was afraid, they would laugh at me and call me stupid.

Because math class was scheduled around reading group, I had to be placed into a math group with kids who didn’t understand math. This was extremely frustrating because math was my best subject, and I wasn’t learning anything new.

At one point, we were an entire month behind the math group I should have been in. Worse, the teacher “worksheeted” us to death.

I was also bullied at school and felt very alone. After four years of this emotional torture, I started to refuse to go to school.

My dad would actually have to pick me up and throw me into the car like a rag doll.

I lost the real me. I lacked self-confidence. I felt vulnerable. I would act one way at school, and then let it all out at

home. It was exhausting. I didn’t want people to get involved in my life or to know how I felt. I avoided all my problems and hoped that they would go away. I kept wanting to just be “better” without doing the work.

My English teacher decided to start holding me accountable. She started pushing me harder to get my work done. It felt like a punishment. It felt unfair, like she was being super picky just to catch me. It seemed like she wanted to do everything in her power to make me look bad and feel bad. Finally, I got so angry, I sent an angry but very honest email to her and my other teachers.

In my email, I stated that no one understood me—and that I couldn’t do what they were expecting of me. Deep down inside, I knew this wasn’t really true, but I felt it so much, that it overwhelmed that small part that “believed” and almost made it disappear completely. At the same time, I was so tired of the way my life was going that I knew I had to change. I needed to fully come out of my shell ... and the honest email was my first step.

After the email, I went back to school, but something was different. I had become so tired of pretending that I decided to just

to honor its commitment. (AWS hosts Netflix, Hulu, Slack, Pinterest, AirBnB, Yelp, Zillow, Expedia, Instacart, DuoLingo, Soundcloud, the Weather Company and many more.) Amazon Prime members can do likewise.

But Dominion will have to make this possible as Virginia is primarily a regulated energy market. Data centers have few options in Loudoun for buying a renewable supply of energy if not offered by the local utility. (Only Apple has invested in enough renewable energy procurement to match its demand in the region.)

Dominion and Amazon, clearly two main players here, must be forced to step up to their obligations. Otherwise Virginia will make little progress transitioning to clean energy.

—Avril Garland, Vienna

briefings. We see other administration officials and even lesser functionaries like the mayor of Richmond present, but, never the lieutenant governor.

I like many other citizens have found this quite odd. Lt. Gov. Fairfax like the governor is a Democrat. Lt. Gov. Fairfax is black and from my understanding black Virginians are the most loyal Democratic voting bloc in the state. Lt. Gov. Fairfax happens to live in Northern Virginia (Fairfax County) the most populous and economically important region in Virginia, which is ironically the region of most concern in the state regarding the coronavirus. Still we have not seen the lieutenant governor at any of the governor’s briefing.

I know the lieutenant governor has been holding calls with black leaders and clergy for the past several weeks to discuss the crisis and issues surrounding coronavirus and its impact on our everyday lives. The first call was organized in less than a day and crashed the system because of the number of people on the call. Most if not all were black Virginians with critical concerns and questions that they felt that they were not getting answers to. His follow-on calls with black leaders and clergy again were at capacity and again revolved around questions black Virginians felt they were not getting answered.

On the Sidelines?

Editor: Over the past week or so, I keep getting this same question, sometimes rhetorically and something inquisitively, but always, “where is our lieutenant governor?” Now, I know our lieutenant governor is not sick or in self-isolation.

But what I and the rest of the citizens of the commonwealth do not know is why our lieutenant governor has been absent from all of Gov. Northam’s coronavirus

PAGE 29

be honest. I wanted to start over in school; this time being honest. Being dishonest and loop holing took a lot of effort. I wanted to stop and become a new person.

To be honest, there are still two conflicting sides that exist in my mind almost every day. My ADHD tells me that I need a break but my other side knows that even if it requires an extreme amount of effort, it’s better to get the work done to avoid problems in the future.

Today when I hit a roadblock, I know that I can talk to people honestly about it and get help. I have learned to resolve my problems in a much, much healthier way. I am still growing and learning - I am not completely out of my shell yet—but in time, I know I will be. n Chris Croll is a writer, community activist and former member of the Loudoun County School Board (Catoctin District). She lives in Leesburg with her husband and two children.

Despite making these valuable contacts and conversations with black Virginians, still we have not seen the lieutenant governor at the governor’s briefings. Does this mean that he has not been invited? Does this mean that the governor and his team are not talking to him?

Does this mean that the governor and his team are not interested in the questions and concerns the black Virginians have addressed to the lieutenant governor?

The absence of the lieutenant governor is extremely disconcerting to many of us black Virginians. This sort of reminds of us of when the lieutenant government was removed from joint campaign literature during the last election. It’s even more obvious and glaring when you compare it to how the black lieutenant governor in Maryland is treated, as an equal partner in addressing the issues of the citizens of that state. Although we understand that there are many questions to ask the governor in this time of crisis, many Virginians want to know where is our lieutenant government and why, when all hands are needed to address this crisis, is he being left, seemingly intentionally, on the sidelines?

— Phillip E. Thompson, Executive Director National Black Nonpartisan Redistricting Organization

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APRIL 2, 2020

Mt. Zion Church: Evolution of a Loudoun Landmark

Tell them you saw it in Loudoun Now Advertisers in this week’s edition:

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comparison to others, it nevertheless was an overwhelming victory for Mosby and his men.

Built as a place of worship in 1851, Mt. Zion became a place of war from 1861 to 1865. The transition may have been inevitable. Mt. Zion’s location on a high point at the intersection of the Little River Turnpike and the Old Carolina Road made it a visible local landmark for travelers from its earliest years. But during the Civil War, its hilltop location where these two then-prominent roads met, made the church an important reference point for troops moving through an area that shifted between Confederate and Union control.

In 1998, Mt. Zion was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the church’s architecture and the events in and around the church that have made a significant contribution to the narrative of America’s history. Remnants of the Old Carolina Road and the church’s cemetery, including at least 33 African-American grave sites outside the cemetery walls, were identified as import-

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In February 1865, Eliza Davis, living on a farm two miles east of Aldie, wrote to her mother-in-law in Connecticut a firsthand account of life on the home front during the Civil War: “I hope you are getting along comfortably in these times of War and Calamity . . . But you only know of war by rumor.

I have lived on the battlefield for the last four years, have seen the dead and dying all around me…. Providence would see…our barn and the [nearby Mt. Zion] church…as hospitals…both have been full of wounded, dead and dying at the same time. An army of men encamped about on every side, in every direction as far as the eyes can see….

“You would ask if I am not afraid. I was at the beginning of the War as timid and nervous as most people, but now since I have seen and realized so much of War, I have become hardened and almost fearless…. None but an eye witness has an idea.”

Indeed, Eliza had a front-row seat to view the fighting of the Civil War and the devastation left in its wake. She and her husband lived across the road from Mt. Zion Old School Baptist Church, now Mt. Zion Historic Park, a property of NOVA Parks. Eliza witnessed the movement of Union and Confederate troops along Little River Turnpike (now Rt. 50), and observed the cavalry battles of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville in June 1863, when Mt. Zion was used as a hospital for the wounded and ill of both sides. One year later, Eliza experienced the July 6, 1864 fight at Mt. Zion, when forces led by local Confederate Colonel John Mosby attacked Union forces of the 2nd Massachusetts and 13th New York cavalries. This 1864 fight began east of Mt. Zion, near the current-day Buddhist Temple on the south side of Rt. 50 and swept west over the fields to the church. A small fight in

• IN

BY MIKE KANE AND TRACY GILLESPIE

ant contributions to this designation.

With the help of many generous supporters and committed partners, NOVA Parks and the Piedmont Environmental Council are working to preserve the history and beauty of the church and the surrounding open space so visible from the hilltop. NOVA Parks acquired the church and seven surrounding acres in 2007, shortly after it had been restored

by Loudoun County and the Mt. Zion Church Preservation Association. The historic building is open to the public and for educational programming on a regular basis, and the property is open daily during daylight hours.

PEC owns 171 acres of rural land visible from Mt. Zion’s hilltop, including the adjacent Roundabout Meadows Community Farm property, where PEC and its

volunteers grow fruit and vegetables that are donated to Loudoun Hunger Relief.

And, working in collaboration with the Mt. Zion Cemetery of Aldie, Inc. and the Fauquier-Loudoun Garden Club, PEC and NOVA Parks have opened a public trail on the roadbed that was once the Old Carolina Road, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of this historic landscape.

Mt. Zion continues to be a prominent landmark for travelers. Its hilltop location now serves, for many people, as the point where Loudoun County’s congested suburbs fade and the beauty of the rural Piedmont’s forest and farmland come into view. The conservation work ensures that future generations will enjoy the welcome relief that comes from reaching the countryside. As Loudoun County’s suburbs creep further westward down Rt. 50, conserving Mt. Zion and the surrounding landscape has never been more important.

Come visit the Mt. Zion church and the surrounding PEC and NOVA Parks conservation lands that once served as the backdrop to Eliza Davis’s witness of the Civil War. These lands tell Eliza’s story, but also the stories of so many others who have shaped, and been shaped, by this hilltop landmark.

To learn more about visiting these sites, including now during the COVID-19 outbreak, go to novaparks.com/parks/ mt-zion-historic-park and pecva.org/ our-mission/working-farms-and-food/ roundabout-meadows-community-farm. n Mike Kane is Director of Conservation of the Piedmont Environmental Council.

Tracy Gillespie is Historic Site Manager of NOVA Parks. In Our Backyard is compiled by the Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition. For more information about the organization, go to loudouncoalition.org.

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But not everyone has been on board with safety precautions such as social distancing. People seeking fresh air have packed into some parks and onto trails—normally a good place to get some distance from other people—which led area officials to close many of those parks at least partially, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to urge people to stay off the trail for now.

After seeing crowds fill Virginia beaches over the warm spring weekend, Northam on Monday issued a new executive order that reinforces the call for residents to remain at home, but also closes beaches, campgrounds and university classrooms.

“Our message today is clear: To stay home,” Northam said to kick off his thrice-weekly COVID-19 public briefing. “… It is clear that more people need to hear this basic message—stay at home.”

“Our doctors, nurses and other medical professionals are putting their lives and health at risk every day, working to help people who are sick with this virus. I am so very grateful to all of you,” Northam said. “But this weekend, some of our beaches and other recreational areas were literally packed. Everyone who is gathering in a crowd at any place around the state is putting themselves and others at risk.”

Northam said Virginians should remain at their homes unless it is necessary to leave to get groceries, medical care or go to work.

The order came the same day that the number of confirmed cases in Virginia surpassed 1,000. Northam pointed out that between contact and showing symptoms, and the further turnaround time for COVID-19 tests, those numbers lag.

“We know that number unfortunately will continue to rise,” Northam said.

“What we’re seeing now is the result of how people interacted two or three weeks ago.”

Northam’s order falls short of the measures put in place by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. While violating some parts of the Virginia governor’s executive order is considered a misdemeanor, nonessential travel is not included. Under two COVID-19 related executive orders enacted so far, there is no penalty for making unnecessary trips.

In DC, violating Bowser’s order to stay at home unless necessary is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $5,000 fine and up to 90 days in prison. In Maryland, violating Hogan’s order is also a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a $5,000 fine and a year in prison.

Similarly, Bowser and Hogan have or-

N I T Y T HROUG

Northam: Get the Message and Stay Home

Gov. Ralph Northam

MU M

to weeks—between when a person is first exposed and when symptoms appear.

The county Board of Supervisors has adopted an emergency ordinance allowing them to meet electronically to adhere to public health professionals’ advice to keep people spread apart, and county staff members are working on new ways for the public to participate in those meetings from home.

And on Tuesday, the School Board held its first-ever fully electronic meeting with nobody in the room.

During the board’s March 20 meeting, most board members were seated at separate tables around the meeting room and others participated via phone calls; the public had to look on from home. The meeting Tuesday was conducted completely electronically.

Under new procedures adopted as part of the state of emergency declaration, comments from the public are accepted electronically via a public comment sign-up form on the school system website. Comments received at least 10 minutes before the start of each meeting will be posted for public review.

And the virus is taking its toll—not only in businesses closed and plans disrupted, but in lives lost. Across Virginia, 27 people had died as of Monday evening. Loudoun saw its confirmed first fatalities from the virus, one a veteran teacher and the other a retiree at the Johnson Center Assisted Living at the Falcons Landing Life Plan Community in Cascades.

Reliable

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dered non-essential businesses to close; in Virginia, they may remain open if they observe social distancing guidelines, and restaurants providing carry-out service and retailers limiting access to up to 10 people may remain open.

Only gatherings of 10 or more people are subject to criminal penalty, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Earlier orders also closed entertainment venues and the dining areas of restaurants, as well as beginning 10-patron limit in businesses considered non-essential.

These orders, Northam said, are meant to help prevent a surge of hospitalizations overwhelming health care systems. Simultaneously, hospitals and governments are seeking ways and funding to expand the number of hospital beds available. On Friday, Virginia was approved for federal funding for the National Guard response to the pandemic, and is seeking further federal funding for unemployment support, legal services, food assistance, and transitional shelter assistance, Northam said.

Northam said state leaders are working with the Army Corps of Engineers to identify sites to erect temporary hospitals.

The commonwealth has 18,500 medical beds, including 2,000 intensive care unit beds. Pandemic modeling being conducted by FEMA and panels of state experts indicate that more beds will be needed in the coming weeks, although there isn’t yet agreement on what the full impact of the outbreak will look like.

“This is an unprecedented and difficult time, and it will be hard for people, I understand that,” Northam said. “But I have faith in you as Virginians. We need everyone to take this seriously and act responsibly, and we will get through this together.”

The day after Northam’s order, chief elected officials across the Northern Virginia region including Loudoun County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At M  BU D Large) issued a joint LIS statementILasking IN the A N same.

“The COVID-19 virus ignores jurisdictional boundaries, political viewpoints, and socioeconomic differences,” the joint statement reads. “We must be united as one region while we each do our part to protect ourselves and each other. Staying home, practicing social distancing and avoiding gatherings, washing hands frequently, disinfecting surfaces regularly, and staying away from others when sick are simple but vitally important ways to keep each other safe. Please join us in this most critical fight.” n

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Stay home

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APRIL 2, 2020

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MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

APRIL 2, 2020

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

S I M P LY B E T T E R .

FLEETWOOD FARM | 1669 WINCHESTER RD | DELAPLANE

20561 TRAPPE RD | UPPERVILLE

$21,700,000 | Incomparable Fleetwood Farm is comprised of 26 parcels totaling 2,490 acres of mature farmland, only a mere 60 miles west of Washington DC. On the property are 4 rental homes. Surrounded by creeks, streams, and ponds. Not in conservation easement.

$4,400,000 | Trappe Hill Farm is a serene 474 acre estate in 5 parcels. Lovely residence with first floor master bedroom suite and incredible views. Three tenant houses, stable with 13 stalls, wash stall, office and apartment. Fenced paddocks and fields with 11 run-in sheds. Various easements.

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

36585 SAWMILL LN | PURCELLVILLE

17 W FEDERAL ST | MIDDLEBURG

$2,700,000 | Property in Land Use~hay & forestry. NOT in Conservation Easement. Zoned AR1. Property lends itself to endless possibilities. Open & rolling fields plus wooded mountain area. VIEWS in every direction.

Well-appointed home w/ 12,000+ finished sqft.

$1,300,000 | Beautiful, modern open 2 story office offering in the heart of historic Middleburg. Large open workspace for communal work environment, as well as individual office spaces to accommodate for multiple types of work preferences. Bright and open throughout. Small kitchen space, 2 bathrooms, and back patio.

Marcy Cantatore 540.533.7453

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

37575 CHARTWELL LN | PURCELLVILLE

10 RICE ST | BERRYVILLE

$999,500 | Gorgeous estate home w/ incredible indoor & outdoor living!! On 10+ acres, indoors-enjoy almost 6000 finished sqft, 5BD/4.5BA, open floor plan, gourmet kitchen w/ granite, HW floors, family room w/ FP, master w/ custom cedar lined closet, all baths updated, finished lower level w/ bedroom and full bath and walk-out to the patio, all w/ low UV light glass windows!

$325,000 | Back on the market! Charming well-maintained Victorian cottage in berryville, peaceful and safe! House maintains its historic charm including an upstairs sleeping porch and a wrap around front porch. The house has been well maintained!

With its many windows and beautiful woodwork, this home truly is unique.

Joy Thompson 540.729.3428

Anne McIntosh 703.509.4499

S I M P LY B E T T E R . | AT O KA P R O P E R T I E S . C O M MIDDLEBURG: 540.687.6321 | PURCELLVILLE: 540.338.7770 | LEESBURG: 703.777.1170 | ASHBURN: 703.436.0077 CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 | LICENSED IN VA + WV

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Maria Eldredge 540.454.3829