Loudoun Now for Oct. 10, 2024

n LOUDOUN

4 | n EDUCATION

10 | n PUBLIC SAFETY

14 | n PUBLIC NOTICES

Community-Supported News. Free to all.

VOL. 9, NO. 48

26

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Supervisors Eye Car Tax Relief Options

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The Board of Supervisors’ finance committee on Tuesday was presented with options to eliminate the countywide vehicle tax or lower the personal property tax, but did not endorse either.

During the fiscal year 2025 budget discussions earlier this year, the board directed County Administrator Tim Hemstreet to return this fall with options to provide personal property tax relief in anticipation of a new state law that would permit localities to create a separate tax classification for vehicles.

The current personal property tax rate is $4.15 cents per $100 of assessed value and is applied to all personal property ranging from vehicles to, most notably, data center computer equipment. In previous years, if supervisors were to lower the tax rate to save vehicle owners’ money, they also would be foregoing a far greater amount of taxes from data centers.

This year the county is expected to collect $668 million in data center personal property tax revenue and $200 million in vehicle personal property tax revenue.

The new legislation allows localities to set different tax rates on vehicles on a temporary or permanent basis.

Now county staff members are looking for direction from the board CAR TAX continues on page 6

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

From right, Jonathan Loveless, Fernando Hernandez, Jon Rooney and Charlie Saylor stand among rows of donated supplies divided into 50-pound bundles for transport to North Carolina.

Volunteer Airlift Aids Hurricane Response Efforts

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

As residents of North Carolina and Georgia begin their long recovery from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, scores of Loudouners jumped to offer aid.

Efforts to collect and transport emergency supplies spanned to nearly every corner of the county in classrooms, places of worship and offices. Among the most impactful work starting in the early days following the storm was conducted by an ad-hoc squadron of local pilots orchestrated by Leesburg Executive Airport fixedbase operator Kuhn Aviation.

For eight days, starting Sept. 30, pilots shuttled payloads of diapers, water, medication and other supplies to airports in western and southern North Carolina, putting them into the hands of emergency workers on the front lines of the response.

By the time the operation wrapped up Tuesday, more than 100 tons of supplies had been collected and distributed at the airport.

Supply deliveries are continuing, with community groups including St. Francis De Sales church in Purcellville and the Loudoun-based America’s 911 Foundation among those loading trucks and trailers this week.

The airlift began after Kuhn Aviation staff members got the idea to use vacant

hangar space as a collection point for supplies. They got the Leesburg-based Smokehouse Pilots involved and word of the effort quickly spread to the club’s more than 6,000 members.

Within hours 10,000 pounds of supplies had been dropped off, said Kuhn Aviation’s Jon Rooney. Soon pilots were lining up to make the 90-minute flight to get the supplies—a couple of hundred pounds per trip—into the hand of rescue workers on the ground in the flood- and wind-ravaged communities. Most flights last week headed to Lincolnton–Lincoln County Regional Airport northwest of Charlotte, close to the HURRICANE RELIEF continues on page 36

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‘You will be OK’

Advocates Urge Domestic Violence Victims to Seek Help

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@louounnow.org

The Leesburg’s Diversity Commission put the spotlight on the prevalence of domestic violence and resources available to help victims during an Oct. 4 ceremony on the Town Green.

The Domestic Violence Awareness Month program featured comments from those on the front lines of helping victims and the stories of women who survived near-death experiences at the hands of abusers.

Mayor Kelly Burk led a roster of speakers who stressed that victims must know that help is available.

“As a community, we can work together to be there for our neighbors, to ensure no one fights this battle alone by themselves,” Burk said.

Police Chief Thea Pirnat said her department this year already has responded to 245 domestic violence related calls, on pace to surpass last year’s total of 382. She said nearly 40% of simple assaults and almost 30% of aggravated felonious assaults reported in town were tied to domestic violence. Over the past 15 years, 60% of homicides in Leesburg have been domestic related.

“This month is a time for all of us to reflect on our pervasive issue of domestic violence and renew our commitment

to supporting survivors and preventing further harm,” Pirnat said. “Domestic Violence is not just about the physical signs of abuse, the bruises and the broken bones. It’s about the deeper, often invisible scars, the broken hearts, the broken homes and the broken families. Domestic violence shatters lives in ways that extend far beyond the physical. The emotional and psychological wounds are just as devastating. Survivors often endure isolation, manipulation and fear impacts that linger long after the immediate threat of violence has passed.”

Pirnat said it takes more than police to help victims.

“Our role as law enforcement is to stand on the front lines, responding in times of crisis. But we know we cannot do this alone,” she said. “Partnerships with organizations like LAWS, combined with the support of our community, are critical. Together, we can offer survivors not just immediate safety, but also hope, healing and resources they need to rebuild their lives.”

Founded in 1984, LAWS operates domestic violence and sexual abuse crises hotline (703-777-6552) and offers shelter services, legal assistance and victim advocacy.

“Domestic violence is not something that happens somewhere else. It happens here in our neighborhoods, our houses of

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Leesburg Diversity Commission member Ana Quijano is comforted by LAWS CEO Samatha Clarke as she recounts her experiences during an Oct. 4, ceremony for Domestic Abuse Awareness Month.

worship, our workplaces and even within families we all know. It crosses all boundaries, racial, economic, gender and cultural and no community is immune,” LAWS CEO Samatha Clarke said. “One in four women and one in six men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

Twenty people per minute experience domestic violence by an intimate partner. Yet for many the abuse remains hidden behind closed doors, clothed in fear, shame and stigma.”

She said it was important to believe the accounts of victims.

“When a survivor reaches out—whether it’s a neighbor, a friend or a colleague— our response matters, each and every one of us. A simple ‘I believe you’ can make

all the difference. It can be the lifeline that encourages someone to seek help, take action or find the courage to leave a dangerous life-threatening situation in Loudoun County,” Clarke said.

Leaving dangerous situations often is the hardest decision for victims and two shared their experiences with the crowd gathered in front of Town Hall.

Diversity Commission member Ana Quijano said she now has a great relationship with a wonderful financé, but she and her daughters continue to grapple with the abuse of her former husband.

“I can see exactly how the scars that DOMESTIC VIOLENCE continues on page 36

Farmers Call for Flexible Conservation Easements, Tax Incentives in Agricultural Round Table

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Two dozen Loudoun farmers and agricultural leaders gathered in Waterford on Saturday morning to meet with Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr to talk about the struggles facing the farming industry and possible actions that can be taken at the state level to mitigate those challenges.

Lohr, a fifth-generation farmer, said the best way to preserve farmland is by making farming profitable.

“Not many people that are really killing it at farming are wanting to sell to a developer, and so that’s really what we focus most of our efforts on is giving resources to our ag community to help them be successful,” he said.

Lohr said over 90% of all farmers rely on off-farm income to survive.

Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery owner John Branding said he’s an example of that statistic.

“I can tell you it’s hard working multiple full-time jobs. I don’t know how sustainable it is for how many people,” he said adding that creating new structures to support the industry is important.

The group focused most of its hour and a half discussion on conservation easements, tax incentives for young and beginning farmers and incentives for local food production and consumption.

While conservation easements, an agreement that allows property owners to retain ownership while receiving compensation in exchange for certain rights on the land, can preserve land, they can also result in unintended consequences that limits their ability to be farmed.

“What are we going to do about all the land that’s being put into conservation

easements, and then it dies and within two years it’s just full of invasive species?” ninth generation farmer John Adams asked. “The Russian olive has taken over this area, so we’ve got to figure ways to give more incentives to producers to use that land for agriculture purposes.”

Loudoun Farm Bureau Former President Tia Earman agreed, saying after being put into conservation easement, land is often used for nutrient banking, making it unfarmable.

“We lost, it’s hard to calculate, but close to 1,000 acres last year out of ag production because it went into a nutrient bank, and then it can’t be farmed,” she said.

Earman said that methodology works for land that is unfarmable already, but that it doesn’t work for what could be its own operable farm.

Del. Geary Higgins (R-30) said making conservation easements more flexible is

something he is looking to address at the state level through legislation.

Rural Economic Development Council Chair Kelly Foltman asked Lohr if there are ways the state could facilitate connections between landowners interested in conservation easements and beginning farmers looking to lease land.

“We have a lot of people that are coming from the east that are buying land, and it’s good that they put it into easement, but then it’s sitting there,” she said. “So, how do you kind of educate and nudge those people into saying it’s a really good program to get these young farmers into.”

Lohr said the state does have an online matchmaking service known as FarmLink, that helps facilitate those kinds of connections, but it’s under advertised and FARMERS' ROUND TABLE continues on page 37

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 4

Loudoun

County Planners Recommend Denial of Arcola Substation, Expanded Data Center

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The county’s Planning Commission recommended denial of an application to expand an already approved data center and add a substation to the site along Arcola Boulevard during a public hearing Sept. 24.

The proposal would rezone an additional 6.8 acres, permit construction of the substation, increase the maximum building height from 60 to 100 feet and increase the permitted space from 460,000 to 786,369 square feet.

During the hearing, PowerHouse Data Centers representative Brian Winterhalter said the substation would not only serve the company’s data centers but surrounding users as well.

“Dominion has told us that they are looking for a substation site. They would like to use the substation site that we’re suggesting,” he said.

Planning staff members recommended a vote by the commission be delayed until the applicant addresses concerns including the buildings’ height and whether a substation should be permitted close to nearby residential uses.

Project Manager Zach Gulden said the 2019 General Plan recommends a transitional space between data centers and substations and residential developments. The nearest house at Arcola Town Center is less than 100 feet away from the project.

To address that concern, he recommended increasing landscape buffers between the project and the neighborhood.

Commissioners also expressed concern about the project’s proximity to residential areas.

“There are certain areas that are good for data centers. There are certain places that are not. I don’t believe this is a good place to knowingly put a substation around here and also increase the building height,” Commissioner Madhava Reddy Madireddy (Dulles) said.

Winterhalter pointed to several other data centers in the area and said the company would provide landscape buffers to mitigate the impact on the surrounding communities.

Commissioners recognized a data center could still be built on the property but said they did not want to see the substation there.

Commissioner Clifford Keirce (Sterling) said he would like to see the loca-

tion of the substation and the data center buildings swapped so that substation was further away from homes, citing its visual impact. He suggested moving the application to an additional work session to look at options.

PowerHouse Co-Founder Doug Fleit said they could consider reducing the footprint of the data center by using a gas-insulated substation that would reduce the project’s footprint by more than 50%, allowing for more of a buffer between the substation and the neighborhoods.

Alternatively, the company could consider locating the substation somewhere else or placing it on part of the property that are wetlands, however that would likely affect the data centers’ setback from the road, he said.

A motion by Madireddy to recommend denial of the application passed 7-2, with Keirce and Eric Combs (Ashburn) opposed.

“At the end of the day I could not overcome the objections I have personally to have a 100-foot building where there are three sides kind of covered by residential units,” Madireddy said.

The project next goes to the Board of Supervisors for final action. n

Applications Open for County’s Invasive Plant Pilot Program

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounow.org

A year after county supervisors agreed to pursue an invasive species removal program, applications opened for a pilot project funded managed by the Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District to help rid the county of invasive plants.

During a Sept. 4 meeting, supervisors voted to fund the pilot, allocating $150,000 from the fiscal year 2024 budget surplus. In December, supervisors allocated $250,000 from the FY 2023 fund balance to develop a framework for the county to support a such a program.

The Soil and Water Conservation District is collaborating with the Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance to implement the program. LIRA was established in April 2023 and now includes over 50 homeowners’ associations as members with a mission to protect the county from invasive plant species.

Community members gathered at the

county government building Oct. 1 to voice their support for the program and to thank supervisors for funding the pilot.

LIRA Representative Fred Ferraris said the pilot will provide “impactful results” in Loudoun.

“This program will help to inform the next steps in a larger program and identify ways to achieve success at scale across the county,” he said.

Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson said the Scrape the Grape initiative headed by LIRA earlier this year, while successful in removing 2 million lanternfly eggs, was just a “drop in bucket” of the problem.

“This is the time for continued pressure, and just making sure that there’s awareness within the community. And LIRA and the help of Loudoun County has really taken a huge step forward in that,” she said.

Any private, commercial, industrial or homeowners’ association properties in the county is eligible for the program. Pri-

ority will be given to species ranked medium or high by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Some of those included are tree of heaven, known for attracting spotted lanternflies, English ivy, golden bamboo, callery pear trees and mimosa trees.

Landowners with invasive species on their properties may apply and up to six will be chosen for the project. Applicants must commit to replanting regionally native species in compliance with a plan prepared by the program or provide an acceptable explanation of why replanting is not necessary. Participants must also allow LSWCD and county employees access to the property for evaluation, design and inspection for two years after the native plant installation.

Landowners will submit invoices for work completed and will be reimbursed after an inspection is completed.

Apply or learn more at loudounsoilandwater.com. Applications close Oct. 17. n

OCTOBER 10, 2024

ON THE agenda

Reservoir Park Opening Set for Oct. 21

After years of planning and community collaboration, Loudoun Water and NOVA Parks will celebrate the opening of Reservoir Park on Oct. 21.

Beginning at noon, the public will have access to the park, including picnic pavilions, hiking, fishing, boat launch and interpretive exhibits.

Reservoir Park is located on the southeast side of Beaverdam Reservoir, at 22211 Water Vista Dr. in Ashburn.

Loudoun Water owns and maintains the 300-acre reservoir as a source of drinking water for Loudoun County residents. NOVA Parks operates 37 regional parks across Northern Virginia.

The innovative park design includes a welcome center, crew facility, boat rental facility, several picnic pavilions, trails, waterfront boardwalks, a bridge, site utilities, a restroom building, educational exhibits, and various other site features.

Boat rentals will be available October 26-27, and visitors may launch their own boats through the end of the season. Beaverdam Reservoir is accessible for fishing and boating at the Mt. Hope Road entrance.

Circuit Court Pushes for Residents to Complete Jury Surveys The Circuit Court has sent out 55,000 postcards asking residents to complete a survey to determine if they are qualified to serve as a juror in 2025.

Clerk of the Circuit Court Gary Clemens said he is expecting the courts will hold more jury trials than is typical in the coming year and said he is hopeful that residents will fill out the survey to ensure the system has enough jurors.

“It’s important every year, but it’s even more important this year,” he said.

Residents can complete the survey until Oct. 25, when jury commissioners will review the results to identify potential future jurors. Community members receiving the post cards were randomly selected.

The survey may be accessed through a secure local government link. n

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 5

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Car Tax continued from page 1 on whether to pursue that differential and if so, what that should look like and when it should go into effect, Hemstreet said.

Hemsteet said there were a few options the county could pursue – modifying the personal property tax rate, providing direct monetary tax relief to county residents and eliminating the license fee charged to each vehicle.

“The first one deals with modifications to the personal property tax rate, either the general rate or the classification for vehicles,” Hemstreet said. “Any adjustment to the general rate or any adjustment to the classification of vehicles would impact all equipment or vehicles and everything that’s within that property tax—commercial, personal vehicles, whatever else is in that classification are affected if you make a change to those rates.”

The second option would supplement an existing statewide program that provides localities with funding to reduce the bill for residents’ personal vehicles.

Loudoun receives $48 million annually for that program. The county could choose to add to that amount to help offset costs for residents, Treasurer Henry Eickelberg said.

“In the same way that the commonwealth gives us money, the board would decide, ‘hey, we’re going to keep the rate at some level, and for the first $20,000 [of a vehicle’s value] and in addition to a reduction in the taxes on that, we will provide a pool of money and have the commissioner of the revenue compute a further credit against that,” Eickelberg said.

However, Hemstreet said he and County Attorney Leo Rogers did not believe the county has the authority to implement a program like that and would likely need to pursue legislation through the General Assembly.

The third option would eliminate the county’s $25 vehicle fee, estimated to bring in approximately $7.8 million annually.

Implementing any of the changes in January would impact the fiscal year 2025 budget since none of the changes were accounted for in the estimated revenue for the fiscal year, Hemstreet said. Specifically, it would likely impact the amount of surplus available from the fiscal year 2025 budget.

Hemstreet said over the past few years the county did not allocate all of the projected real estate tax revenue from data centers because of concerns at the General Assembly level on whether it was being valued properly.

“We were holding some of that real property money kind of in check, just to ensure that if there were appeals on real property value, we would have enough money to pay back those appeals,” he said.

As a result, the budget surpluses have

OCTOBER 10, 2024

been abnormally high over the past few years. Now that the situation has stabilized the fund balance would likely be lower in fiscal year 2025 and is estimated at $100 million to $130 million, he said.

“You need to consider how, if you grant personal property tax relief in tax year 2025, how that impacts fund balance or fiscal year 2025,” Hemstreet said.

He said the maximum amount of revenue that the county could forego in FY 2025 would be $25 million, while the maximum for FY 2026 would be $60 million.

As an example of the impact the options could have, Hemstreet provided a chart showing that if the board decided to forego $60 million in FY 2026, the vehicle fee could be eliminated, the vehicle personal property tax rate lowered to $3.75 and the non-vehicle personal property tax rate lowered to $4.

Hemstreet said he was looking for direction from the board on what the staff should pursue and what other models supervisors would like to see.

Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) said he wanted to see scenarios that kept the general personal property tax rate at $4.15 cents and lowered the vehicle tax rate beginning in tax year 2026.

Vice Chair Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) said she wanted to see modeling with lower levels of lost revenue beginning in tax year 2026.

County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) and Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) said they supported eliminating the vehicle fee in January 2025 and covering the loss of revenue with the fund balance.

However, Briskman said the $7.8 million equaled a half cent of the real property tax rate and cutting it from one place would mean it likely needs to be made up elsewhere.

Committee Chair Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said he had concerns with reducing the county’s revenue when the board’s budget discussions do not typically involve reducing expenditures.

“I would need also to probably see the full fund balance picture before committing to $8 million of it here. Certainly, for the following year, I think absolutely for 2026. For 2025, I’m not sure,” he said.

Instead, he suggested lowering the car tax to $4.10 in tax year 2025, which would have a fiscal impact of approximately $1.4 million for the remaining half of fiscal year 2025 – an idea also supported by Supervisor Michael Turner (D-Ashburn).

The committee did not make a recommendation to reduce any of the tax rates or eliminate the vehicle tax for tax year 2025.

Instead, Hemstreet will return to the committee with the modeling information requested by the supervisors.

A motion by Letourneau to pursue legislative authority for the rebate program passed unanimously. n

OCTOBER 10, 2024

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 7

SCC Plans Large-Scale Electric Customer Conference The State Corporation Commission has announced plans to hold a technical conference to explore the effects largeuse retail electric customers in Virginia on the state’s utilities, ratepayers, and power grid.

The conference will consider current and future challenges by the growth of hyperscale users.

“Large power users such as data centers could bring an ‘unprecedented’ amount of new load for electric utilities, creating complications and risks the utilities have not previously encountered,” according to the announcement.

The commission is looking to address three main questions – whether the commission should establish a tariff framework and terms of service for the large-scale customers, whether certain transmission costs should be directly assigned to a new large-scale customer class and whether certain generation costs should be directly assigned to a new large-scale customer class.

The conference is intended to identify potential frameworks that facilitate service; address risks and issues of the increased usage; are just and reason-

able to current and future customers; and meet current Virginia statutes. It also may examine issues related to the co-location of generation resources at new large-use customer load sites.

The conference is scheduled for Dec. 16, but a location has not yet been announced.

Anyone interested in participating as a panelist should submit a self-nomination by email to techc o n f - P U R- 2 0 2 4 - 0 0 1 4 4 @ s c c . v i rginia.gov no later than Oct. 22. All submissions should refer to Case No. PUR-2024-00144.

Following the technical conference, it is the Commission’s intent to invite all interested persons to submit post-technical conference comments addressing some or all of the issues raised during the technical conference.

The announcement comes just one week after the close of an SCC hearing during which Loudoun County asked the commission to require Dominion Energy to bury a portion of a planned underground line and to allocate the additional costs to high wattage users in the area. n

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PAGE 8

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Leesburg

Renovated Shoe’s Reopens with Elevated Menu

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

The evolution of a Leesburg cobbler shop into a downtown hotspot continues with the latest round of renovations at Shoe’s Cup and Cork.

The long-closed North King Street building was reimagined by owners Fred and Karen Schaufeld a decade ago when the eclectic coffee shop and restaurant helped to spur a downtown renaissance. The addition of a bocce ball court created one of the town’s most popular outdoor dining spots in the backyard Secret Garden.

Following a month-long renovation over the summer, Shoe’s is upping its coolness factor once again. The makeover of the interior builds on the 1930s speakeasy vibe of the restaurant’s upstairs dining room and ushers in an elevated dinner menu. The new floor-to-ceiling bar display leaves little doubt that Shoe’s is more than a coffee shop these days.

General Manager Jimmy Zinter said the changes are exciting.

“I would say that it definitely still has that coffee shop feel in the morning, but then as we drift into the lunch hour and into dinner, it really picks up a lot,” he said.

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

General Manager Jimmy Zinter and Francesca Terreri stand in front of the new cocktail bar at Shoe’s Cup and Cork.

“They’re looking for a really fun experience, a nice bottle of wine, maybe a great cocktail that we’re making. We’ve got some really great sangrias—like the rosé sangria, the Thai basil sangria—that have been flying.”

Chef Jarroun Durrette comes to Shoe’s

after working for the Washington Commanders and at Honor Brewing Company. Working out of a newly remodeled kitchen, his new menu includes shellfish options, including a popular shrimp and grits, and crabcakes. And the Shakshuka has emerged as a favorite. “We also have

AROUND town

a wonderful, this is crazy, steak and egg.

I mean, it is just out of this world. It’s so good. The meat is really tender. It’s a beautiful cut,” Zinter said.

Durrette also has a focus on using the freshest ingredients and making everything in house. “We’ve always been a scratch kitchen, but now we’re making our own Caesar dressing, for example. We’re making a lot of our own dressings. We’re butchering in house, as well. We want to make sure we’re delivering the best products to the community,” Zinter said.

While the space and the menu may be more upscale, the staff also is working to maintain an informal, community hangout feel. That includes the assortment of board games available on the bookshelves.

“We have some great chess and checkers. We’ve got some backgammon. We’ve also got every single board game, I think, that you could possibly think of in there right now. We really want people to utilize those as much as they can,” Zinter said.

“Play a game of Shoots and Ladders or Candy Land. Beat your son in chess.”

“We still want it to be a community center. We still want people to hang out with us, not just eat and run. We want people to come in and really enjoy themselves and have an experience with us.” n

In Memory

Proposals Sought for Piano Art Project

Leesburg VFD Plans Open House

Station next door, there will not be public parking available at the fire station.

The Commission on Public Art is seeking artwork submissions for a community piano that will be located in a new downtown park.

The theme for artwork is “Come Together.” Because the piano will be installed outdoors, the material used must be weather-resistant.

The commission is offering a $400 stipend for design and installation of the selected work.

This call is open to all artists/teams.

There is no requirement for previous public art experience. Submissions are due by Oct. 29 and will be reviewed by COPA on Nov. 5. The Leesburg Town Council will have the final review. Submission guidelines and details are available at leesburgva.gov/publicartnews.

The Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company will hold its annual open house Saturday, Oct. 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fire Station 20 located at 61 Plaza St. The event is the kickoff for Fire Prevention Month activities. This year’s theme is, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you.”

The event includes fire equipment displays and demonstrations. The Loudoun Volunteer Rescue Squad, the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office and Leesburg Police Department also will participate. Visitors will be able to ride the ladder truck, tour of the station and have a chance win a fire truck ride to school. Food and drinks along with fire safety materials will be available to all who attend.

Because of construction at the Police

Leaf Collection Begins Tuesday Leesburg’s annual fall bulk leaf collection will start Tuesday, Oct. 15.

Collections will take place on Mondays in the northeast zone, Tuesday in the northwest zone, Wednesday in the southeast zone, Thursday in the southwest zone, Friday on King and Market streets.

Leaves should be placed in piles within 4 feet the curb—but away from form inlets, fire hydrants, and utility boxes— by 6 a.m. on collection day.

The final leaf pickup will be the last week of December.

For more details, go to leesburgva.gov/fall-leaves. n

Members of the BURG Family Reunion Club planted a memorial tree at Douglass Community Center as a tribute to family members who are no longer living. A plaque for the tree reads “Rooted in Love, and Always in our Hearts!” Shown are club members Irvin Greene, Rebecca Thomas, and Charlene Perry.

OCTOBER 10, 2024

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

Parking Fee Cost Could Double for Downtown Developers

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

The Town Council on Tuesday initiated a Zoning Ordinance change to double the cost of the payment-in-lieu parking fees paid by some developers in the H-1 Overlay district.

Currently, developers who are unable to provide required on-site parking spaces may pay a $8,254-per-space fee to the town, through a program established in 1985 to create or improve parking downtown. Today, the fund has $479,717. Over the years, only $8,200 has been spent. That was to support a temporary parking lot that has since closed.

Deputy Director of Community Development Brian Boucher recommended the town increase the fee to $16,800 and adjusted it annually based on the Consumer Price Index.

He said the current fee doesn’t cover the costs of providing new parking facilities.

The staff estimated the marker rate of providing a park space at $33,600.

Mayor Kelly Burk builders are getting

a deal. “[Developers] feel like ‘I’m paying the town a certain amount of money and I get nothing for it,’” Burk said. “My response has always been, you do. You are getting the opportunity not to have to provide parking.”

Vice Mayor Neil Steinberg suggested the council also change the ordinance to allow payments from the parking-in-lieu fee for maintenance as well as construction.

“Up till now, so far as I remember the town has built exactly one [parking] facility,” Steinberg said. “We, I think, we need to get serious about providing at least one more, and somehow that has to get paid for.”

Councilmember Zach Cummings asked Boucher about the potential concern that doubling the cost of the fee would discourage developers from investing in Leesburg.

Boucher said discouraging investment was “something to consider,” but said the proposed pricing would fall in line with other localities.

Under the council action, the staff will prepare ordinance amendments that will be subject to public hearings prior to a final vote. n

PAGE 9

Final Salute The community paid tribute to Thomas Wayne “Tommy” Downs on Friday with a procession through the town where he served for more than 50 years. Downs died Sept. 28 at the age

of 71. The Leesburg native joined the fire company in 1971 at age 18. He held offices from assistant engineer to chief and served on the board of directors for nearly 20 years. n

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 10

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Education

Schools Host Food Show to Test New Menu Possibilities

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Community members gathered at Independence High School on Friday afternoon to taste test a variety of potential school meals at Loudoun County Public Schools’ first ever Food Show.

The event brought together K-12 food service vendors, community partners and LCPS School Nutrition Services to sample recipe ideas for breakfast and lunch meals.

The event was organized by LCPS Executive Chef Erik Madsen and Nutrition and Procurement Coordinator Brittany Palaschak.

“We want to do a balance in variety,” Madsen said. “Brittany works on the menus, and I work along with her on the menus. So, the basis behind it was to have the variety and have the students come through, obviously, we got the community as well, but our main goal is the students,

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Loudoun County Public Schools Nutrition and Procurement Coordinator Brittany Palaschak and Executive Chef Erik Madsen organized the division’s first Food Show Oct. 4 to test meal options being considered for the schools’ menus.

so that we get their influence on when we make menu selections going forward.”

The duo works to ensure that the food available to children is both delicious and nutritious.

“All of these products are K-12 compliant with the nutrition guidelines so we know that they’re vetted and they’re

appropriate to meet our menu goals and standards,” Palaschak said.

The team also works to provide a variety of options throughout the changing seasons, include cultural foods, and meet dietary requirements that students may have.

“That’s something that we know is important to our community, so we wanted to highlight that,” Palaschak said.

Over 30 chefs and food vendors offered samples of original recipes to visitors, including a dish crafted by Madsen himself. Madsen’s lomo saltado, a Peruvian-style meal, includes beef, onions and French fries.

Other dishes included pizza, empanadas, Hawaiian-style hamburgers, walking tacos, breakfast frittatas, chicken tikka masala, lasagna, Thai noodles and burritos.

Visitors were asked to rate each dish on taste and presentation on a scale of one to five to help the team decide which meals

should be included in the next school year’s menus.

“It’ll give us a big snapshot if that’s something we want to bring in,” Palaschak said. “Or we can also work with our vendors to modify recipes and kind of see what we can do to increase participation and variety.”

Madsen also said the survey asked participants to include which type of school – elementary, middle or high – the meals would fit best.

Palaschak said it takes a hard-working team behind the scenes to provide meals to the county’s 80,000 students each day.

“We do different nutrition education, so it’s not just serving the tray, and that’s it. There’s a whole lot behind the scenes happening,” she said.

Over a dozen community partners and vendors also attended to share information on topics ranging from hunger relief to exercise. n

‘Our Legacy is With Us’

Community Reflects on Impact of Douglass High School

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

For nearly three decades, Douglass High School served as a path to a better life for Black youth in segregated Loudoun County. Today, it serves as a reminder of those struggles and a symbol of their perseverance.

Both roles were on display Saturday as the community was invited to explore the renovated campus during the inaugural Douglass Legacy Day. Charles Avery, a member of the school’s final class in 1968, led the opening ceremonies for the day’s events with a dozen alumni joining in.

“Why do we need to be intentional on this day? It’s October 2024, and we’re Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now talking about legacy. It’s more than how Alumni of Douglass High School gather around the “Upward Struggle” sculpture during Douglass Legacy you live and what you leave in your will Day celebration on Saturday. or to your heir. Living legacy is what you Named in memory of Frederick Douleave in every moment that you exist. It’s away from it. It is chasing us down the glass, the school was built in 1941 on road.

Th e legacy is with each one of us, every breath that you take,” Avery said. land purchased

by Loudoun’s Black parespecially the young folk who witness “The ancient Greek philosophers’ legaents through the County-Wide League. what we’re doing here today.

Th at is the cy lives in their writings. Our legacy is Th e county School Board agreed to fund strength of a living legacy. ” with us, walking with us. We can’t get

the school if the League sold it the land for $1. It was Loudoun’s only accredited high school serving Black students prior to court-ordered integration in 1968.

The building is listed in the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places.

The event was hosted by the Douglass Community Center and presented in coordination with the Loudoun Douglass High School Alumni Association, the Edwin Washington Society, and the NAACP Loudoun Branch.

The Douglass High School Commemorative Committee was appointed by the School Board in 2021 and played a key role in the school’s renovation, which was completed in 2023. The panel’s Reconciliation Subcommittee made recommendations to the Board of Supervisors that included funding an annual commemorative event to preserve the legacy of the school by bringing awareness to the greater Loudoun community.

DOUGLASS IMPACT continues on page 11

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 11

SCHOOL notebook

Education Foundation Adds 3 Board Members

Carole M. Adolphe, Grafton deButts and Dorri O’Brien have joined the Loudoun Education Foundation board of directors.

Adolphe is a senior finance executive at Mobius Consulting with over 30 years of expertise to financial management, contracts, pricing strategy and mergers and acquisitions.

DeButts manages outreach and growth for federal IT contractor. Prior to that, he managed outreach for the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Visit Loudoun and has over 15 years of experience in development, marketing and government affairs.

O’Brien brings over 30 years of professional experience in healthcare, local government, economic and community affairs. She serves as the director of Western Region Government and Community Relations at Inova Health System and previously

Douglass Impact continued from page 10 County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said she is inspired by the continuing work of the school’s former students.

“I joke all the time that I’m not somebody that gets emotional easy. I’m not a crier. But whenever I get around the Douglass alumni and the Douglass legacy, I’m always struck at the powerfulness of this moment. I’m always struck by the fact that we would not be here—I definitely would not be here—were it not for the legacy that came before me and the people who came before me,” Randall said. “I want to congratulate you all in this moment and I want to thank you because you have paved the way for so many of us. You continue to do that. You continue to talk to us. You continue to teach us and continue to show us how important it is to stay involved and stay active.”

The ceremony featured the formal dedication of the “Upward Struggle” sculpture by Jeff Hall.

“My job was to help the committee realize in sculpture the historical representation of the struggle that the Black community went through to get a proper education,” Hall said. Of course, my job

held roles in Loudoun County government, including chief of staff to the vice chairman.

“We are thrilled to have Carole, Grafton and Dorri join the board at the Loudoun Education Foundation.

They each bring incredible experience and talents that will add to our mission to help every child reach their potential,” Executive Director Danielle Nadler said.

“We are at a ‘ready, set grow’ mindset and it’s an honor to have the level of team that’s been assembled,” President of Loudoun Education Foundation Steven Frederickson said. “We have executives from some of the biggest companies and change makers in the area. We have relationships with businesses that are creating an amazing opportunity for us to serve students and educators.”

Learn more at loudouneducationfoundation.org. n

was made easier by a passionate committee. I always welcome their input and their criticisms, but if I just take the time and listen to what they had to say that made the sculpture much better. I listened.”

The statue features two students in period dress between the 1940s and 1960s.

“It’s a minor nuance, but there are no tennis shoes,” Hall noted.

The students are climbing up a steep hill. “The boy is holding up a book, saying, ‘This is what I want. This is what I’m after. I’m after an education,’” Hall said.

“The girl’s happy to go to school. She’s embracing the books, holding them close to her heart.”

The event included a full day of history lessons, family fun and live music highlighting the award-winning renovation of the school and new history-oriented playground.

Avery said it was the first of many Douglass Legacy Days, planned as an annual event.

“I say the legacy is in every breath that we take. So we are here to celebrate the legacy of the Historic Douglass High School, the legacy that is intertwined with the city and within the county and state of Virginia,” Avery said. n

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PAGE 12

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Business

Optimum Technologies Celebrates Expansion of Sterling Assembly Plant

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

The leadership and staff of Optimum Technologies on Tuesday formally celebrated the expansion of its Sterling satellite manufacturing facility.

The previously announced expansion is valued at $999,000 and promises at least 40 new jobs at the Carpenter Drive complex.

CEO Jeffrey Gick and COO John Hildebrand started the company in 2015 in a Leesburg co-working office after leaving Orbital Science Corporation. Initially a consulting firm, Optimum has experienced rapid growth in recent years after moving into the hardware field. It expanded to the Sterling office park in 2019.

Loudoun County Department of Economic Development Business Development Manager Brandon Ferris said he started working with the company a year ago to help with another expansion.

“For us, our priorities in Economic Development are the growth of our facilities here in the county—bringing businesses in and making sure the businesses that are here continue to grow,” Ferris said.

“When they brought me a manufacturing project within the county, within existing space that we didn’t really have to build or scramble around to different properties,

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Loudoun County Department of Economic Development Business Development Manager Brandon Ferris, right, speaks during the Oct. 8 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expansion of Optimum Technologies’ Sterling operations.

I thought this was a great idea. Then add to the fact that it’s within the satellite and space, which is amazing.”

“I thought it was a great idea, and working with this team has been a great experience for me. We’re really excited about the investment that they’re putting into Loudoun County,” Ferris said.

Gick said the one of the company’s current projects is designing a tactical satellite communications system for the Space Force that would be protected from enemy jamming technologies.

“This satellite would essentially create an anti-jam environment so that if a soldier is in an area that’s being jammed, he

can still get the message through. This is a prototype, so we’re testing brand new hardware to do this,” Gick said.

He said the innovative work is part of a broader national security effort to maintain dominance in military space.

“Space gives us a unilateral advantage, but with Russia and China now focusing on taking that advantage away from us, that’s the area that Optimum Technology probably expands in the most. We understand that environment and how to protect satellites, and that’s where we’ve invested heavily.”

While many of the components are manufactured elsewhere, the Sterling offices house the engineering design teams and the assembly and testing operations.

“We’ll take the final products—the structure, all the components—and we integrate them here, add the harness, the wiring and everything and then we’ll test it here. Then it will be ready to go to the launch site,” Gick said.

The upcoming new hires will be engineers and technicians.

Gick said it’s still a small startup company. “We have a similar flavor of what Orbital was back in when they started. It’s a great energy and we all love space. It’s been fun.”

OPTIMUM continues on page 13

Study Cites Growing Economic Impact of Craft Beverage Industry Loudoun’s craft beverage industry is contributing millions to the local economy, according to a study commissioned

by Visit Loudoun, Loudoun Economic Development, the Loudoun Wineries and Winegrowers Association and the Loudoun Craft Brewers Association.

In 2023, Loudoun’s wineries, limited breweries, distilleries, meaderies and cideries reported more than $48.6 million in estimated revenue, an increase of almost 60 percent since 2018, according to an Economic Impact Study conducted by Qualtrics and Aquino Consulting.

“It is evident by this research that Loudoun’s craft beverage industry is a vital piece of Loudoun’s economy and is enjoyed not only by Loudoun residents but is a key attractor for visitors,” Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson said. “What we know is that our win-

eries are the number one visitor attraction and when people explore the 50 wineries in DC’s Wine Country, it creates an economic impact ripple effect for our towns, shops, historic sites, restaurants and other attractions.”

In 2023, Loudoun wineries, limited breweries and distilleries welcomed an estimated 1 million visitors. For wineries, nearly 50 percent of their wine club membership is local while an additional 27 percent live in Virginia.

In addition to beverage sales, most venues feature special events. Eighty to 85% of survey respondents have private event space for weddings and corporate meetings while 65 to 80% do ticketed events including concerts, festivals and dinners.

In 2023, wineries and limited breweries also contributed more than $1 million in donations to the community.

More than 85% of employees who work in the craft beverage industry are Loudoun residents.

“Loudoun County’s rural craft beverage industry remains a significant force in driving employment and economic diversification. By supporting local, artisanal products, visitors contribute to Loudoun’s agricultural economy, benefiting everyone involved,” said Buddy Rizer, executive Director of the Loudoun Department of Economic Development.

Wineries and limited breweries make up a significant piece of the agritourism economy. This year, Loudoun’s wine region celebrates 40 years. About 56 percent of Loudoun wineries and independent growers responded to the survey. Those respondents keep 704 acres of land under vine and approximately 3,000 acres in agricultural use. The most popular varietals

grown include Chardonnay and Viognier for white and Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot for Red. “I have been a part of Loudoun’s amazing winery community for 12 years and I couldn’t be more excited about how much our industry of locally owned, small farm wineries has grown,” said Aimee Henkle, owner of Lost Creek Winery and member of the Loudoun Wineries and Winegrowers Association board. “This study demonstrates the economic impact our industry can make when we work together and lift each other up. At our heart we are stewards of the land, farming and crafting wines with the utmost quality.

We wouldn’t be here if it was not for the support and enthusiasm of all the visitors who come to share in our unique winery experiences. To see that impact has nearly doubled in the last five years is exciting.” n

OCTOBER 10, 2024

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

Triveni Supermarket Hailed as ‘Bright Light’ for Community

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

The Triveni Supermarket in the South Riding Town Center celebrated its grand opening Friday with speeches and special giveaways.

The store specializes in Indian and South Asian cuisine and has become a destination for the members of Loudoun County’s fastest growing ethnic group since its opening in April.

The store fills a 43,300-square-foot space previously occupied by a Food Lion.

Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said decades ago the Food Lion opening was a big deal for South Riding residents, and the Triveni store has brought new life to the town center.

“They waited a long time for the former occupant here, which was a Food Lion. And when that went out of business, there was a lot of concern, not just because we were losing the grocery store, but for the entire area and the entire shopping center here. We had some incidents here.

We had some vandalism. We had some things that were not the best of our com-

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau, center, joins with area residents and staff members Oct. 4 for the grand opening celebration.

munity,” Letourneau said. “But then we had a bright light and great hope, which is this to be any supermarket coming in here and serving the community that lives here. This is an incredible asset. I know that this has already turned into a very successful business.”

Representatives from the county’s Department of Economic Development also welcomed the business.

“It’s really fun for me, as the interna-

tional business development manager to see how prosperous and successful the Indian community is here in Loudoun.

It’s our fastest growing demographic and I just am very, very impressed,” DED’s Bob McCollar said.

Business retention Manager Chris Hunter said it was wonderful to meet with the entire market family.

“A part of the American Dream sometimes gives credit to the country, but it’s really the people who embrace your dream and your passion and your effort and drive and giving back to the community. That’s everything you’ve done,” Hunter said. “We just want to say thank you so much for your investment in Loudoun …

We just really appreciate your commitment to the community and service.”

This is the first Virginia location for Triveni Supermarket, which also operates stores in North Carolina, Texas and Maryland.

In addition to a vast assortment of South Asian groceries, spices and halal meat, the store has an in-house bakery and a food court.

It is located at 43090 Peacock Market Plaza in South Riding. n

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PAGE 13

Optimum continued from page 12 Part of that atmosphere, he said, was attracting the industry’s top talent. ”We hire essentially the A’s in the industry—the people who are in the top 2% in any industry. When you come across them, you’re like, ‘wow, that guy’s sharp.’

That’s what we really focus on, recruiting the top 1 to 2%. Then when you have a group of those folks, they begin to attract others from the 1 to 2%,” Gick said. “It becomes this. There’s a magnetic force when people are that confident, they want to work with other people. Then you have a really fun environment. We can do amazing things.”

“It’s easy to manage those folks, too.

You just give them challenges and away they go,” he said.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership with Loudoun County will be supporting Optimum Technologies’ job creation through the state-funded Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which is designed to reduce the human resource costs of new and expanding companies and to provide consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs.

Learn more at optechspace.com. n

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 14

Public Safety

Leesburg Police Headquarters Expansion Hits Milestone

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Construction crews working on the Leesburg Police Department’s $17.8 million headquarters expansion celebrated the project’s topping out milestone on Oct. 2.

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

Construction crews working on the Leesburg Police Department’s $17.8 million headquarters expansion celebrated a major milestone last week.

The topping out party marked the completion of the structural phase of the 14,500-square-foot expansion.

“We have been trying to make this happen for many years and to see it come

to this point, it’s just very exciting,” Mayor Kelly Burk said to the crowd of construction workers, contractors and town staff members.

“All of you have been out here in weather that’s not always pleasant, but you continue to work hard, and we really appreciate all the effort that you put into it,” she said.

Burk also thanked members of the Police Department who have worked through the disruptions that come with

SAFETY briefs

Domestic Shooting Suspect in Custody after Standoff

He was taken into custody safely, shortly after noon.

A section of Canby Road west of Leesburg was closed Tuesday morning as Sheriff ’s Office deputies investigated a domestic shooting.

The shooting, involving two brothers, was reported just prior to 2 a.m. Oct. 8.

The 29-year-old victim was transported to a hospital for treatment of a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

The suspect, believed to be armed, refused deputies’ instructions to exit the home and surrender, resulting in a prolonged standoff.

Spontaneous Combustion Cited in Lovettsville Fire A Sunday night fire at a Lovettsville-area home was caused by the spontaneous combustion of improperly discarded oily rags, according to the Fire Marshal’s Office.

Shortly before 10 p.m. Oct. 6, fire-rescue crews from Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, and Hamilton, as well as Frederick County, MD, were called to a reported garage fire on Downey Mill

construction.

“We here in Leesburg are very proud of our police department. We have some of the most fantastic men and women that work every day to protect us and keep us safe and truly appreciate it,” Burk said. “All the members have been incredibly patient and gracious throughout this project and I’m really going to be excited to see the results in the spring when we come back and do a little ribbon cutting.”

Will Carbaugh, the project manager for Hoar Construction, also thanked the members of the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Department next door.

“We know it can be tricky having construction in your backyard at times, but we really appreciate your patience helping us deliver this building as quickly as possible. We’re very excited to be here,” he said.

In addition to the expansion, the project includes 21,000 square feet of renovations to modernize the 27-year-old Plaza Street headquarters. The work includes larger locker rooms, additional office space and interview rooms, more parking for police cruisers and a stormwater pond. A new mezzanine level will include a fitness center for the use of police officers and staff. Renovations to the existing facility will include improvements to the electrical room and other general upgrades.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2026. n

Road. The first arriving crew quickly extinguished the fire and prevented it from spreading to the interior of the structure.

Damages was estimated at $80,000.

The Fire Marshal’s Office reminds residents to properly dispose of combustible materials. Oil-soaked rags and brushes should be disposed in a sealed, air-tight containers to decrease concerns related to spontaneous heating. Never pile rags, brushes, or rollers together; they should be laid flat on an exterior surface to dry before disposing through normal means.

Go here for more information about fire prevention and life safety. n

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Hearing Set for Animal Cruelty Case

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

A preliminary hearing has been set for the case of a Middleburg-area woman charged with animal cruelty following an investigation by Loudoun County Animal Services.

Patricia Burby, 62, is charged with eight misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals, one felony count of torturing/maiming a dog or cat, one misdemeanor count of inadequate animal care and a civil violation for the seizure and impoundment of animals. The felony charge stems from one dog, which was euthanized on the recommendation of a treating veterinarian.

She was arrested Sept. 12 and later released on a $5,000 unsecured bond. Burby is scheduled to appear back before the Loudoun General District Court on Dec. 16 at 1 p.m.

In July, 19 dogs and six cats were removed from Burby’s home following after LCAS found the animals living in conditions that were deemed to have a direct threat to their life, health and safety.

During a Sept. 6 District Court hearing, custody of those 25 animals was transferred to Loudoun County Animal Services. In addition to the animals seized by investigators, five dead dogs were found in and around the residence, including some decomposing in crates adjacent to living dogs, according to the report.

During the court hearing, Burby was ordered to pay $23,500 in restitution to the county to cover the cost of animal care. The judge also issued an indefinite ban on her ownership of companion animals.

In addition to her own pets and several animals being boarded in the home, Burby allegedly was also fostering animals for a Fairfax-based poodle rescue. Investigators described the home as having urine and feces throughout, requiring the use of hazmat-style protective equipment for officers. Dogs appeared to have been confined in crates for long periods in litter and feces several inches deep and without access to food or potable water. At least one cat suffered from untreated injuries, according to the testimony.

Burby faces a sentence of up to five years and a fine of up to $2,500 on the felony charge. n

OCTOBER 10, 2024

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

Towns

Purcellville Candidate Slates Lay Out Competing Visions in Separate Forums

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

With less than a month until the Purcellville town elections, candidates have lined up to debate the top issues in town – at three separate candidate forums and a meet and greet.

Last month featured a mayoral forum hosted by the Blue Ridge Leader at the Carver Center. On Monday night, the Blue Ridge Leader hosted a council forum, however only members of mayoral challenger Christopher Bertaut’s slate attended. Candidates aligned with incumbent Mayor Stanley Milan hosted their own meet and greet at Bush Tabernacle at the same time.

On Tuesday afternoon the Purcellville Business Association hosted its annual forum for all of the candidates, however only Milan’s slate, without John-Mark Gardner, attended.

Bertaut’s slate includes Purcellville Police Officer Carl “Ben” Nett, Planning Commissioner Brian Green, Susan Khalil and Jonathan Arnburg. Milan’s includes incumbent members Caleb Stought and Kevin Wright, along with Brian Dean and Gardner.

Despite the separate venues, candidates largely tackled the same topics of concern, focusing on utility rates, fiscal responsibility, annexation and traffic.

During Monday night’s forum, candidates said bringing down utility bills for residents is one of their top priorities with all of them except Nett saying they would immediately vote to reduce the utility rates if elected.

“The hesitation is, I take you at your word, literally, immediately. We have a lot to do in short order. What I can say with confidence is that we would eliminate all the planned double-digit rate increases in the next four or five years that are on the table right now,” Nett said.

He said a fundamental difference between the two slates of candidates is that his believes the town has a spending and management problem, while Milan’s believes the town faces a revenue shortfall.

Khalil said there were several actions the council could take to offset the utility rate increases, implemented by the current

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

From left: Kevin Wright, Stanley Milan, Brian Dean and Caleb Stought take part in a candidate forum Oct. 8.

From left: Carl “Ben” Nett, Brian Green, Susan Khalil and Jonathan Arnburg answer questions at a candidate forum Oct. 7.

council to meet increasing debt service obligations. Those include eliminating some town staff positions, using nutrient credits, and transferring meals tax revenue to the utility funds Khalil said with a town manager and assistant town manager, a director of administration is not necessary and could save the town $180,000 a year in addition to the cost of benefits. She also suggested saving town funds by having a smaller finance department.

“We have a finance department of 12 people,” she said. “Well, we had a finance department two years ago of 12 people, but something happened in the meantime. The county took over the billing of our taxes.

So, why do we still need 12 people in the finance department?”

Nett also said the police department is “top heavy.”

“We have four uniformed six figure salary administrators,” he said, adding that the deputy police chief position was created in 2017 when then-Chief Cynthia McAlister was suing the town. Now, the town doesn’t need the position, he said.

“Once government puts something in place, government never gets rid of it, even if the demonstrable need for it no longer exists,” Nett said.

Khalil said the town has a higher meals tax rate than surrounding localities and using it to cover utility costs could provide some relief to customers.

“All the meals tax right now goes into our operating fund. Who knows what it is being spent on?” she said. “… If we took a million dollars of that and applied it to the water debt, then there’s no reason for any double-digit increases.”

During Tuesday’s forum, Milan’s slate said taking money from the operating fund, which would include staff salaries and meals tax revenue, and using it for the utility fund is not sound fiscal management.

“Pulling money out of the town’s general fund, which is where meals tax lands, and putting it into our utility funds, the water and wastewater, will damage the town’s credit rating,” Stought said.

“There’s not a million dollars of fluff in our town budget operating fund. It’s not there,” Wright said.

Candidates on both slates said they have concerns about the pending annexation request by JK Land Holdings to bring 117 acres into the town limits.

Green said it would cost too much in utility infrastructure to serve the proposed Valley Commerce Center and it would take too long to see the financial return from it.

“It’s not the right time for annexation,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s not a solution, it is a solution. It’s one of many in the toolbox. The Comprehensive Plan also says that annexation is not preferred, and that if an annexation is requested, the townsfolk have to vote their preference for it.”

“Before we annex property and add more business into the town, why don’t we focus on the businesses that are here?”

Arnburg asked. “Why don’t we focus on bringing businesses to this town to fill up the vacant spaces on Main Street and work with our current business owners to bring other opportunities to our town and existing space?”

Milan said he needed more information before making a decision on the annexation request. Residents are looking

for something that will add benefits to the town, not take away from it, he said.

“There are a lot of factors at play here,” Stought said. “Traffic is a significant consideration. Water consumption is a significant consideration. Revenue generation is a significant consideration. It is industrial, not commercial.”

Dean said he wanted to keep an open mind to learn whether annexing land would be beneficial to the town.

“We need to look at every annexation and say, ‘Is this something that’s beneficial or not?’ And you have to judge that from an independent standpoint. You can’t go and campaign and say, ‘No annexation, no annexation, no annexation,’ and then look at something fairly unless you’ve had that ability to kind of come in and say, ‘I need to look at this. Is this beneficial? Is it not?’” he said.

Candidates also addressed ways to mitigate increasing traffic congestion in town, with Wright saying that was his main concern.

“We can’t piecemeal issues when it comes to traffic,” Wright said. “The biggest impact of the town itself, from a traffic perspective, is the residents of the town. There is only 9,000 residents roughly in town. … it’s all the development and growth that’s occurred outside the town limits.”

The town should partner with the county government to take a more regional look at traffic, he said.

Green and Arnburg agreed that taking a wholistic approach is the right way to move forward.

“Everything is done in pockets,” he said.

“Nobody is looking at the region. Now, I’m talking west town, east town, north of town, south of town and beyond.”

“We need to do a geographic comprehensive traffic study,” Arnburg said. “We need to understand the flow. We need to understand the times of the heavy flow. We can figure it out, but we need to know the exact times.”

Khalil said synchronizing some of the town’s traffic lights could also help mitigate the congestion.

Early voting has already begun for the Nov. 5 election. Learn more at loudoun.gov/vote. n

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 17

Purcellville Moves to Upgrade Water Treatment Plant

BY HANNA PAMPALONI

hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Purcellville is working to upgrade its water treatment plant along Short Hill Road and received approval from the county Planning Commission last week.

The site currently houses a 1,000-gallon ground-mounted water storage tank, and equipment to treat water from the town reservoir and a groundwater well.

The town is requesting a commission permit to allow a major utility, a special exception to expand the existing facility, and minor special exception to eliminate the landscape buffer requirements.

The property is surrounded by nutrient bank tree plantings located in a conservation easement.

IMEG Engineering Consultant Jason Alagna said the town is looking to expand the facility to help provide more water to the town’s system.

The project is included in the town’s fiscal year 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program in three phases and is expected to cost $3 million. Completion of the project estimated for late 2028.

The commission voted unanimously to approve to the application during its Sept. 24 meeting. n

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Purcellville’s water treatment plant along Short Hill Road.

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LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Waterford Holds 80th Fair The Village of Waterford hosted its 80th annual fair over the weekend showcasing more than 200 artisan and artists including 79 of the finest American artisans, many from Loudoun County and the Mid-Atlantic region, who demonstrated their crafts and sold their handcrafted pieces.

Visitors had the chance to tour the village and get a look into restored historic homes and gardens, walk through Civil War and Quaker cemeteries, see a special reenactment of a day in an 1880s classroom, watch performances of traditional music and dance, listen to historical interpreters and Virginia-specific talks and a view a fine arts exhibit. n

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 19

AROUND towns HAMILTON Fall Festival Planned Saturday The town’s annual Fall into Hamilton celebration will be held Saturday at the community park from 2 to 5 p.m.

The event will include a food truck, music, a pumpkin decorating contest, a costume contest and children’s games.

The celebration will also include a hay bale maze.

HILLSBORO Cemetery Adds Columbariums The columbariums at the historic Hillsboro Cemetery will be dedicated during a Saturday, Oct. 19 ceremony beginning at noon.

“The columbarium is a permanent, safe, and dignified place for loved ones to rest in peace,” Hillsboro Cemetery Board President Marty Potts said. “Set in the serene Hillsboro Cemetery, it is a place for the grieving to visit, engage in quiet reflection, and remember. It’s a thoughtfully designed and intimate memorial setting.”

Local dignitaries and supporters of the nonprofit cemetery will participate in the program. The public is invited to attend.

The Hillsboro Cemetery Company was incorporated in 1896. Since then, it has grown to approximately 11 acres. In 2022, the board of directors reorganized the governing body into a non-stock, nonprofit organization. The cemetery is located at 37125 Charles Town Pike, on the eastern edge of Hillsboro.

Learn more at hillsborocemetery.org.

LOVETTSVILLE Public Hearing Set for Branding Policy The Town Council is holding a pub-

lic hearing on updates to the Town Code regarding branding materials after the Commerce and Business Development Committee spent the summer drafting revisions.

The updates intend to ensure all representations of the town are promoting a unified image while protecting the town’s seal and logo from unauthorized use.

During a July 16 meeting, the council approved the recommendation that the seal be for official use only to maintain its integrity and ensure it is only associated with official documents, communications and town actions.

To enforce those changes, the council is seeking to amend the Town Code so that a violation could result in a fine of up to $2,500.

The hearing will take place during the council regularly scheduled meeting Thursday, Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

PURCELLVILLE The Story of Purcellville Historian Paul McCray will present the story of the Purcellville Train Station and how the railroad changed the town during a presentation Thursday, Oct. 10 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Purcellville Train Station on 21st Street.

McCray, a recipient of the Thomas Balch Library’s Loudoun History Award, will share photographs of the station and of the growth of the town around it. Light refreshments will be provided. This presentation is jointly hosted by the Town of Purcellville, the Train Station Advisory Board and the Purcellville Historical Society.

This event is part of the week-long Celebrate Purcellville festival. Residents may bring their Celebrate Purcellville passport to the presentation to get a sticker. Passports can be picked up at Purcellville Town Hall, the Purcellville Library and the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink all week. n

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

OCTOBER 10, 2024

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Obituaries Thomas Wayne Downs

Thomas Wayne Downs, known by his family and friends as Tommy, passed away on September 28, 2024, at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debbie; daughter Christina Setlow (Craig), son Jason Downs; grandsons Austin and Craig Setlow, Jr. (or CJ); sister Bonnie Whetsell; nephews Wayne Whetsell (Michele) and Michael Frye; and nieces Madelyn, Morgan, and Meghan Whetsell. He is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Kathleen Downs, brother Nelson Downs, and niece Sherry Riley. Born on February 16, 1953, in Leesburg, Virginia, Tommy was a lifelong resident of Leesburg, attended Loudoun County High School, and worked for 38 years at the old Xerox Document Center, now known as The National Conference Center. He was a member of Leesburg United Methodist Church and the Leesburg Moose Lodge #1041, but his pride was being a lifelong member of the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company (LVFC). Joining LVFC in 1971, he served in various offices - from Assistant Engineer to Chief - throughout his time and was on the Board of Directors for close to 20 years. One of his proudest moments was when his son, Jason, followed in his footsteps and also joined LVFC. Tommy will be remembered for his humor, friendship, leadership, and love and devotion to his family, particularly his wife and his grandsons Austin and CJ, who were his pride and joy. A celebration of his life was held Friday, October 4, 2024, at Noon at Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg, 201 Edwards Ferry Road, N.E., Leesburg, VA 20176. Internment was held immediately following at Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company, 61 Plaza St., Leesburg, VA; or the American Cancer Society.

Frederick Sergio Frederick Sergio died peacefully in Ashburn, VA on August 20, 2024, with his wife Carole by his side. He was 87 years old. Fred was born November 11, 1936, in Brooklyn, NY, the “older brother” of his identical twin, Ted, who arrived moments later.

The twins enjoyed their childhood playing in the streets of Borough Park, a Brooklyn neighborhood where Italian Catholic families lived alongside the many Hasidic families that also made Borough Park home. Fred’s exposure to Catholicism and Judaism throughout his childhood played an integral part in his future. After completing high school at Brooklyn Tech, Fred attended the United States Merchant Marine Academy where he graduated in 1960 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

His academic successes aside, Fred would light up a room recounting his favorite stories from his college days. Like when Fred and Ted would trade places at their respective colleges, Kings Point and Fort Schuyler. Or when, as a campus photographer, Fred spied the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen and created a story for the Kings Point collegiate magazine that required her to be in a photo shoot.

That young lady was Carole Duminska, who agreed to be his model, and not long after, agreed to be his wife. Fred and Carole were married for 63 years at the time of his passing. Fred’s tenure in the Navy brought him and Carole to the Brooklyn Navy Yard and to Portsmouth, VA. During this time, the young couple welcomed their children Ted and Carolyn into their lives. After transitioning to the Naval Reserves, Fred joined IBM in Poughkeepsie, NY as a “three-piece engineer”; this was Fred’s nod to IBM’s strict dress code for engineers who would walk the factory floors in their required jacket, tie and vest. At that time, Melissa was born just before the family relocated to Northern Virginia where Fred was named Director of Engineering for the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA.) He later retired as a Captain from the U.S. Navy in 1996. Once settled in Burke, Virginia, Fred and Carole practiced their Catholic faith at Holy Spirit Catholic Church and The Church of the Nativity. Fred renewed his passion for photography and simultaneously reconnected with the Jewish roots of his childhood as he became the go-to photographer for weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs for local synagogues. He dedicated decades to the local Northern Virginia Jewish community and was very much loved and welcomed by his brothers

and sisters in the Jewish faith. And if you visited the Sergio household between the ‘70s and ‘90s, there is a good chance Fred shared his love of photography by convincing you to sit for a portrait session in his home studio. Fred also spent 30 years as a Professor of Engineering at Northern Virginia Community College. He was instrumental in creating Engineering coursework that could transfer to Virginia Tech, a proud accomplishment of his time teaching. But most of all, he loved bringing his humor to the classroom and seeing his students develop and proceed on to receive four-year degrees in Engineering. But of all the successes, the degrees, the accomplishments Fred accrued in his lifetime, truly his greatest success was found in his family. Fred instilled in his children a fierce sense of family, a solid work ethic, the importance of a good prank and the ability to laugh until you cry.

He was a natural storyteller who brought humor and laughter to every situation. Until his last days, Fred was an advocate and a fighter for those less able. Even wheelchair-bound in his assisted living facility, if a resident was struggling, Fred would be the one to help. It was his innate nature to be a protector, a provider and a leader. He was a great man. Fred was predeceased by his parents, Guido and Julia Sergio. Fred is survived by his wife, Carolyn E. Sergio, and brother Theodore G. Sergio, his son, Theodore W. Sergio (Linda), daughter Carolyn Harrigan (Mike), and daughter Melissa Sergio. He was the proud grandfather to Michael and Mae Harrigan, Samuel Sergio and Eli Craig. The family will receive friends for a visitation which will be held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 4:007:00 pm at Loudoun Funeral Chapel. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 10:00 am at St. Theresa Parish in Ashburn, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Fisher House Foundation, The Wounded Warrior Project or to The Church of the Nativity (Burke, VA.) Share condolence with the family www.LoudounFuneralChapel.com

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

Fusion Cuisine Meets Traditional Beers in Loudoun’s Newest Brewery

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

LIVE MUSIC SCOTT KURT 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com DOUG WALL 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com BOBBY CRIM 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com KEN WENZEL 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com SHANE GAMBLE 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com LENNY BURRIDGE 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Hillsborough Vineyards & Brewery, 36716 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. hillsboroughwine.com GARY SMALLWOOD 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com DOMINICA KNAPP 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com LOCAL BOY TIMMY 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com PANIC FOR THE VIBE 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com ASHLEIGH CHEVALIER 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchase.com

LIVE MUSIC continues on page 23

Loudoun’s newest brewery opened last month boasting traditional beers, unique food and a space to hang out with a few friends or host a business meeting.

Owners Ambar Sharma and Basabi Virmani first came to know each other in Winchester where they worked together on several fundraisers. Virmani worked at the Winchester Health Center and they collaborated on several projects for many of the city’s nonprofits, learning that they worked well as a team.

Sharma has been a fan of beer for years. His experience living in seven countries has given him a wide appreciation for more traditional beer and sparked a curiosity about how the ages-old drink is made. Years ago, his wife gave him a “brew your own” kit and since then Sharma has been making his own beer, giving him an even greater appreciation for the complexities and processes that go into producing the drink.

“I just appreciated the craft itself and always wanted to do something like a brewery,” he said.

On the other hand, Virmani has always dreamed of owning her own restaurant.

The two joined forces to open Route 7 Brewing – an effort marked with delays and challenges along the way.

While Sharma and Virmani fell in love with the Ashburn warehouse-style location immediately, they needed special exception approval from the county government, working with both the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.

With that permit in hand, the duo started gathering equipment and designing the interior. Those plans were also met with delays when the truck carrying their equipment from Canada hit a patch of black ice and crashed. It took another three months to refabricate the pieces.

Once the brewhouse was finally in place, the duo began assembling a team, focusing on two vital roles for the business – a brewer and a chef.

Sharma and Virmani interviewed 17 candidates before settling on Chef Clinton Canyon. Virmani said Clinton instantly understood the kind of food they were trying to create and embraced their vision that centers around community.

The menu focuses on tapas-style foods that are easy to share with friends.

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Ambar Sharma, left, and Basabi Virmani, right, hold their favorite beers, the Riverside American Lager and the Kolkata Kolsch at their new business venture, Route 7 Brewing.

“You order a plate, you get some beers and let friends share food together,” Sharma said. “So, you build that energy, the vibe, the bond. That’s why our menu style was finger food, tapas style.”

Canyon puts his own style into each item, drawing on years of experience traveling as a private chef for foreign dignitaries through his job with the State Department.

“He brings a lot of rich experience in terms of seasonings and sauces,” Sharma said. “So, what he was able to do was put a twist on every menu item that was a lot of Basabi’s research that we put together, he was able to do his own twist on it.”

“It has Indian fusion, Indian taste,” Sharma said.

“But it’s not an Indian restaurant,” Virmani added.

Their favorite menu items include the Tandoori chicken egg rolls, Delhi deviled eggs, and beef empanadas.

But while the brewery’s food is adventurous, it’s beer is not, with brewer Eric Peters focusing on traditional beers that stand the test of time.

“We’re trying to have a lot of beer tasting beers,” Sharma said.

He said he was a fan of Peters when he was brewing for House 6, which closed in 2023.

“I was a regular at House 6. I loved his beer,” Sharma said of the Ashburn

brewery.

Sharma said he’s worked with Peters to have most of the options have lower alcoholic percentages to allow visitors to drink and not worry about the side effects as much.

“We want to differentiate this place as a place where you can do events, in terms of your corporate events, your team events,” he said. “So, we will have at least four to five beers around 5% ABV, so that you can come here enjoy a few beverages, still have a good time and not be worried about having a 9% beer.”

Peters said in the past he’s made all kinds of beer – traditional, trendy, Lucky Charms flavored – all of which are good.

But there’s something special about the kinds that have lasted for thousands of years, he said.

“I worked at Beltway Brewing doing some contract brewing there and I probably brewed 100 different beers. That was just the nature of the business,” Peters said. “And I learned a lot of really great techniques working for a lot of great people. My style, I guess, would be more on the traditional side, I’d have to say.

My goal is to just make really enjoyable, clean tasting, refreshing beers. Those are

ROUTE 7 BREWING continues on page 24

OCTOBER 10, 2024

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 23

BEST BETS

MO & MARY MAC Friday, Oct. 11, 5:30-8 p.m.

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continued from page 22 FREDDIE LONG 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com JASON TEACH 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com DEJA BLUE 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Otium Cellars, 18050 Tranquility Road, Purcellville. otiumcellars.com JOJO BAYLISS 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 The Dell, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. atthedell.com NASHVILLE NIGHTS 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Tally Ho Theater, Leesburg. $15 to $35. tallyhotheater.com LOUDOUN AIR 7 p.m. to Oct. 12, 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11 The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. $25. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com GINADA PINATA 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville. monksq.com PC 415 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com DENNIS WAYLAND 12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Cana Vineyards, 38600 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. canavineyards.com 123 ANDRÉS 12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Leesburg Premium Outlets, 241 Fort Evans Road

NE, Leesburg. premiumoutlets.com/outlet/leesburg MIKE KUSTER TRIO 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com DAN BARRY 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford.

8chainsnorth.com VICTOR TORRES 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro.

868estatevineyards.com JUMPTOWN 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com RICHARD WALTON 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Firefly Cellars, 40325 Charles Town Pike, Hamilton. fireflycellars.com MICHELLE LOCKEY 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Fleetwood Farm Winery, 23075 Evergreen Mills Road, Leesburg. fleetwoodfarmwinery.com GARY SMALLWOOD 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Stone Tower Winery, 19925 Hogback Mountain Road, Leesburg. stonetowerwinery.com BRIAN HARRIS 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Bleu Frog Vineyards, 16413 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg. bleufrogvineyards.com JULIET LLOYD 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg.

50westvineyards.com ROB HOEY 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyard.com

SHIM Thursday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m.

Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $20. tallyhotheater.com Sick Puppies co-founder Shimon Moore performs in Leesburg as part of a nationwide tour.

IAN BLACKWOOD 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Lost Rhino Brewing Company, 21730 Red Rum Drive, Ashburn. lostrhino.com MARION SHEAFFER 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville. creeksedgewinery.com BENTON & MCKAY TRIO 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com DEANE KERN & ERIC SELBY 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Bozzo Family Vineyards, 35226 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. bozwines.com RICHARD WALTON 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Firefly Cellars, 40325 Charles Town Pike, Hamilton. fireflycellars.com LAURA CASHMAN 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com LENNY BURRIDGE 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com PATTY REESE 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com MELISSA QUINN FOX 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Dillon’s Woods, Purcellville. purcellvilleva.gov MATTHEW BURRIDGE 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com ECLECTIC COMPANY 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane,

Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com STEVE BOYD & FRIENDS 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com RULE G 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com FAITH NOEL 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com SIDETRACKED 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com GRAYSON MOON 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville. monksq.com FLYING IVORIES 8 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Ion ITC, 19201 Compass Creek Parkway, Leesburg. $20. ionarena.com PATCHWORK DORATHY 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com DEREK KRETZER 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com LOW N’ BROWS & JASON MASI 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com

LIVE MUSIC continues on page 24

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

Morven Park Hosts Fall Horse Trials Top riders from around the country will gather at Morven Park this weekend to compete in the Fall Horse Trials.

Morven Park is one of six venues in the United States to hold a CCI4*-L competition. Spectators are invited to enjoy an up-close look at the discipline of eventing. Men and women of all ages—including Olympic-level riders— compete head-to-head dressage, show jumping, and cross-country.

The Oct. 10-13 event is open to spectators at no charge.

Learn more at morvenpark.org n Courtney Olmstead aboard Eliza Do Alot jumps on the cross country course during Morven Park's 2023 Fall Horse Trials.

Route 7 Brewing continued from page 22 actually much harder to do than a lot of the kind of wackier, trendy type beers.”

The interior of the brewery was designed by Sharma and Virmani and has two parts. The ground floor includes the main bar, seating and two garage doors that can be opened during nicer weather which lead to a patio with more seating.

GET OUT LIVE MUSIC

continued from page 23 MATT BURRIDGE 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com NATHANIEL DAVIS 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com ANDY B 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford.

8chainsnorth.com HALL VOTE 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Firefly Cellars, 40325 Charles Town Pike, Hamilton. fireflycellars.com HUBIE G & THE LOST CORNER VAGABONDS 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com SHARIF 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Visitors also have a direct view of the brewing equipment and can often see Peters milling around the large fermenters, hard at work.

From the ground floor, visitors can take stairs up to a mezzanine where a smaller bar, additional seating, TV screens and a dumbwaiter from the kitchen serve community members looking for more privacy.

Sharma and Virmani agree that their individual strengths are what make them a great team.

“She has perseverance,” Sharma said.

“This was a three-year long project, and she was the force that got us through.”

“He researches everything that he does,” Virmani said. “He’s an excellent negotiator. He gets along well with everybody, and he’s willing to roll up his sleeves and do anything that needs to be done.”

The brewery’s first weeks of operation have been successful with feedback from the community being overwhelmingly positive, Sharma said.

“The response has been very good,” he said. “People are appreciating the beers. That is the most important feedback that we need, and so far, it has been a delight to hear what they have to say.

They are appreciating the newer concept of food that we are producing.”

The brewery is located at 20051 Riverside Commons Plaza in Ashburn. It is open Fridays and Saturdays from noon to midnight and Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon to 10 p.m. n

CHESAPEAKE SONS (DUO) 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Bleu Frog Vineyards, 16413 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg. bleufrogvineyards.com DEANE KEARN 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg.

50westvineyards.com TODD BROOKS 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyards.com MARK CULLINANE 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com MEISHA HERRON 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com SPIKE BURTON 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com DAN CRONIN 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro.

868estatevineyards.com HOPELESS SEMANTICS 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804

Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com MO & MARY MACK 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com WAYNE SNOW 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, 13274 Sagle Road, Hillsboro. notaviva.com LOS FUGITIVOS/TIERRA CALI 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Rio Cantina, 21800 Towncenter Plaza, Sterling. facebook.com/RioCantinaSterling CHRIS BOWEN 12 to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com DAVID MININBERG 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com JOE DOWNER 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg.

50westvineyards.com MELISSA OUINN FOX 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyards.com RED, WHITE AND BLUES BAND 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14

Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com TEJAS SINGH 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15 Rebel Taco, 22850 Brambleton Plaza, Ashburn. rebeltaco.com LOUDOUN JAZZ ENSEMBLE 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15 Trungo’s, 2C Loudoun St. SW., Leesburg. facebook.com/Trungos TEJAS SINGH 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com ROWDY 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

HAPPENINGS A CITIZEN’S SHORT COURSE ON THE CONSTITUTION 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. $25 to $50. oldstoneschool.org MORVEN PARK INTERNATIONAL & FALL HORSE TRIALS 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday Oct. 11-13 Morven Park International Equestrian Center, 41580

HAPPENINGS continues on page 25

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

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KIDD G

ANELLA HERIM FRI 10/18

GAELIC STORM FRI 11/01

GET OUT HAPPENINGS continued from page 24 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg. morvenpark.org LOUDOUN CRIME COMMISSION LUNCHEON 12:30 to 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Belmont Country Club, 19661 Belmont Manor Lane, Ashburn. loudouncrimecommission.org PASTA DINNER 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Harmony Methodist Church, 380 E. Colonial Highway, Hamilton. harmonyva.org EAT, DRINK & BE LITERARY: TAYLOR CHAMBERLIN 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11 Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. $15 to $20. oldstoneschool.org

BIRDING BANSHEE 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, 21085 The Woods Road, Leesburg. loudounwildlife.com HARVEST FESTIVAL 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 12, Sunday, Oct. 13 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com HARVEST FESTIVAL 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Farm de Vine, 15960 Short Hill Road, Hillsboro. $20. farmdevine.com FALL INTO HAMILTON 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Hamilton Community Park, 31 W. Colonial Highway, Hamilton.

NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY/DRAG PERFORMANCE 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville. twotwistedposts.com HILLSBORO FARMERS MARKET 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13

80s NIGHT w/ THE REAGAN YEARS SAT 10/19

NELSON SAT 11/09

NEW POTATO CABOOSE FRI 10/25

YNGWIE MALMSTEEN 40TH ANNIV. TOUR

SUN 11/10

SHIM

FRI 10/11

NASHVILLE NIGHTS

THURS 10/17

ANYTHING BUT HUMAN, SHALLOW SIDE, CHASING THE DEVIL

SAT 10/26

CROWDED STREETS THE DAVE MATTHEWS EXPERIENCE

SAT 11/02

GOLD DUST WOMAN

FRI 11/08

COMEDY NIGHT

FRI 11/15

PRIVATE EYES HALL & OATES TRIBUTE

90’S COUNTRY TRIBUTE

Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. oldstoneschool.org LECTURE: JOHN BROWN’S RAID 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 St. James United Church of Christ, 10 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville. lovettsvillehistoricalsociety.org PROFS & PINTS: HAUNTED LANDSCAPES OF MIDDLE-EARTH 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 Crooked Run Fermentation, 22455 Davis Drive, Sterling. $13.50 to $17. profsandpints.com/washingtondc BLUE RIDGE DEMENTIA CARE CONFERENCE 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 Saint Francis de Sales, 37730 Saint Francis Court, Purcellville. $35. blueridgedcc.com LOUDOUN RETIRED EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Oct. 15 Loudoun County Public Schools, 21000 Education Court, Ashburn. loudounea.org

FIND LOCAL EVENTS

TRIBUTE TO STEVIE NICKS + FLEETWOOD MAC

RUN THE VINEYARDS WILLIAMS GAP 5K 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Williams Gap Vineyards, 35521 Sexton Farm Lane, Round Hill. $35 to $40. williamsgapvineyard.com COMEDY NIGHT 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 Tally Ho Theater, Leesburg. $20 to $32. tallyhotheater.com BETTERALIFE’S GALA 5 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 The Barn at Brambleton, 23726 Belmont Ridge Road, Ashburn. betteralife.org HAUNTINGS 2024 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Oct. 17-19 Loudoun Museum, 16 Loudoun St. SW., Leesburg. $35. loudounmuseum.org WILDEST PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS IN THE 1800S 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17 Oatlands Historic House & Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. oatlands.org

GETOUTLOUDOUN.COM

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

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

Case No.: JJ048199-04-00, 05-00, 06-00, 07-00

PUBLIC NOTICE THE TOWN OF LEESBURG BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS The Town of Leesburg is soliciting applications for an appointment to serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals. This position is appointed by the Loudoun County Circuit Court to a five-year term ending December 31, 2029.

The Board of Zoning Appeals meets as necessary the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA. Additional information concerning this quasi-judicial board is available from the Clerk of Council during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-7712733, eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or the Town of Leesburg website at www.leesburgva.gov.

If interested, complete an online application on the Town Web site: https://www.leesburgva.gov/ government/boards-and-commissions.

Online applications are due by 5:00 p.m., October 25, 2024. All applications will be forwarded to the Loudoun County Circuit Court for consideration and appointment.

10/03, 10/10, 10/17 & 10/24/24

TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION 10.4.6 Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.22205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLZNOA2024-0003.

1. Section 10.4.6.C Structures Excluded from Maximum Height Limitations – a revision to the Zoning Ordinance to add an exception to the maximum building height for enclosed rooftop amenities in the B-1 (Community (Downtown) Business) zoning district.

Copies and additional information regarding this proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-771-2765 and asking for Mike Watkins, Zoning Administrator. Mr. Watkins can also be reached by email at mwatkins@ leesburgva.gov.

At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodation should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 7712773, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

10/03 & 10/10/24

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Diana Aljanabi Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, and Unknown Father The object of this suit is to hold an Annual foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-282.2 for Diana Aljanabi, and hold a hearing on the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights of Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, Zaid Aljanabi, Father, and Unknown Father, pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1-283 for Diana Aljanabi. Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, and Unknown Father, are hereby notified that failure to appear on the hereinafter noticed date and time may result in the termination of their residual parental rights with respect to Diana Aljanabi. Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, and Unknown Father, are hereby further notified that if their residual parental rights are terminated, they will no longer have any legal rights with respect to said minor child, including, but not limited to, the right to visit Diana Aljanabi; any authority with respect to the care and supervision of Diana Aljanabi; or the right to make health related decisions or determine the religious affiliation of Diana Aljanabi. Further, Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, and Unknown Father, will have no legal and/or financial obligations with respect to Diana Aljanabi, and the Department of Family Services of Loudoun County, Virginia may be granted the authority to place Diana Aljanabi for adoption and consent to the adoption of Diana Aljanabi.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Dalya Alkhkree, Mother, and Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before November 14, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

10/10, 10/17, 10/24 & 10/31/24

ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.: JJ049287-01-01 Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Anne Pena Munoz Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Luis Caballero, putative father, and Unknown Father The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing regarding a child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-253 and 16.1278.2 for Anne Pena Munoz.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Luis Caballero, putative father, and Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before October 15, 2024 at 11:00am.

9/26, 10/3 & 10/10/24

A message to Loudoun County Property Owners regarding the Land Use Assessment Program Robert S. Wertz, Jr., Commissioner of the Revenue The Land Use Assessment Program provides for the deferral of real estate taxes on property that meets certain agricultural, horticultural, forestry, or open space use criteria.

• First Time Applicants: must submit an application and the required fee no later than November 1, 2024. Applications are available online, in my office, or can be mailed directly to you.

• Existing Land Use Program Participants: if your property is currently enrolled in the program, you are only required to renew your land use status every 6th year. Existing Land Use Assessment Program participants must submit a renewal form, documentation supporting the bona fide production income for agricultural and horticultural land use, and the required fee, no later than November 1, 2024. Participants who are up for renewal will be mailed personalized forms the first week of September (you may check your renewal year at www. loudoun.gov/parceldatabase by entering the property’s address, or parcel identification number, and selecting the LAND USE STATUS tab). Properties showing a Reval/Recert Year of 2019 are up for renewal this year.

An additional deferral of taxes may be available to current Land Use Program participants if they sign, and record, an agreement to keep the property in its qualifying use for more than 5 years, but not exceeding 20 years. The commitment must be filed with my office no later than November 1, 2024, and recorded in the Loudoun County Clerk of the Circuit Court´s office no later than December 16, 2024.

DEADLINES Applications must be submitted no later than November 1, 2024, to avoid late filing fees.

Applications submitted between November 2, 2024, but prior to December 5, 2024, are subject to a $300 per parcel late filing fee in addition to the standard filing fee.

Applications will NOT be accepted after Dec. 5, 2024.

FILING FEES Received, or postmarked, by November 1, 2024 • $125 plus $1 per acre or portion thereof Received, or postmarked, between November 2 and December 5, 2024 • $125 plus $1 per acre or portion thereof plus a $300 per parcel late filing fee Online: loudoun.gov/landuse Email: landuse@loudoun.gov Phone: (703) 737-8557 Mailing Address PO Box 8000 MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20177-9804

Overnight Deliveries 1 Harrison Street, SE, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20175-3102 In Person Drop Off Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, M - F Leesburg Office – In Person 1 Harrison Street, SE 1st Floor Leesburg, VA 20175 Sterling Office – In Person 46000 Center Oak Plaza Sterling, VA 20166 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24 & 10/31/24

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NEEDS LOUDOUN COUNTY HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD Date: Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 6:00 PM In-person public comments will be received between 6:15 PM and 7:30 PM Location: Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development, 1st floor, Olmstead Room, 106 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, VA 20175 Pursuant to Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, 42 United States Code §5301, et seq., and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations at 24 Code of Federal Regulations Subtitle A §91.105(e)(1), the Loudoun County Housing Advisory Board will hold a NEEDS ASSESSMENT HEARING on October 15, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development. The purpose of the needs assessment hearing is to obtain citizens’ views and to respond to proposals and questions for the purpose of addressing housing and community development needs, including priority housing and non-housing community development needs, economic development, fair housing issues, development of proposed activities, proposed strategies and actions for affirmatively furthering fair housing, and review of program performance. Comments received at the needs assessment hearing will be considered in preparing Loudoun County’s Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships Fund 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan that will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors for approval and subsequently submitted to HUD in May 2025. All citizens and organizations are invited to present their views and comments. Written comments may be submitted to the Department of Housing and Community Development by not later than 5:00 p.m. on October 15, 2024.

If you require an accommodation for any type of disability or need language assistance to participate in the hearing, please contact the Department of Housing and Community Development at 703-737-8323 (V/TTY). At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice.

9/26, 10/3 & 10/10/2024

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 27

Legal Notices LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLE This notice is to inform the owner and any person having a security interest in their right to reclaim the motor vehicle herein described within 15 days after the date of storage charges resulting from placing the vehicle in custody, and the failure of the owner or persons having security interests to exercise their right to reclaim the vehicle within the time provided shall be deemed a waiver by the owner, and all persons having security interests of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, and consent to the sale of the abandoned motor vehicle at a public auction.

This notice shall also advise the owner of record of his or her right to contest the determination by the Sheriff that the motor vehicle was “abandoned,” as provided in Chapter 630.08 of the Loudoun County Ordinance, by requesting a hearing before the County Administrator in writing. Such written request for a hearing must be made within 15 days of the notice..

LOUDOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fiscal Year 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program Fiscal Year 2026 – 2031 Capital Asset Preservation Program The Loudoun County School Board has scheduled meetings for the Fiscal Year 2026 - 2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Capital Asset Preservation Program (CAPP) budget process.

DATE

TIME

October 22, 2024*

4:30 pm/ 6:30 pm

November 12, 2024*

4:30 pm

November 19, 2024

6:30 pm

WILL BE ACCEPTING COMPETITIVE BIDS PROPOSALS FOR:

December 2, 2024

6:30 pm

EAST BROAD WAY 2A STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS STATE PROJECT: EN18-255-290 / UPC 113840

December 10, 2024*

4:30 pm/ 6:30 pm

YEAR

MAKE

MODEL

VIN

STORAGE

PHONE NUMBER

2018

NISSAN

SENTRA

3N1AB7AP8JY265665

D&M

703-471-4590

10/10, 10/17/2024

TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE

Project Description: The East Broad Way 2A Streetscape Improvements project includes construction of approximately 550 LF of roadway improvements comprised of sidewalks, curb, gutter, streetlights, storm drainage, on-street parking spaces and landscaping, storm water management and drainage, and pedestrian and vehicular safety complete with all associated appurtenances and site work in accordance with the approved plans, specifications, and contract documents to address the walkability in the corridor of East Broad Way from South Loudoun Street to South Church Street.

Bid Proposals for EAST BROAD WAY 2A STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS IFB 2024-0003 will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on December 16, 2024. The solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting the Town’s website at www.lovettsvilleva.gov/project-request-for-bids/ Bid Proposals are to be submitted on the prepared Bid Form, in a sealed envelope bearing the Bidder’s name and address and registration number. The mailing of proposals is preferred, however, if a proposal is hand delivered, it will be received in the Town of Lovettsville Government Office at 6 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia 20180 and date stamped by a staff member Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. holidays excepted. Requests for information related to this Request for Proposal should be directed to: Charles Mumaw, Project Manager at (540) 755-3005 or cmumaw@lovettsvilleva.gov.

10/10, 10/17 & 10/24/24

TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION 11.4.4 Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLZNOA2024-0002: 1. Section 11.4.4 Modified Requirements in the Downtown H-1 Overlay District – an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to consider changes to expand parking exemptions in the B-1 (Community (Downtown) Business) zoning district for nonresidential uses.

Copies and additional information regarding this proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-771-2765 and asking for Brian Boucher, Deputy Director. Mr. Boucher can also be reached by email at bboucher@leesburgva.gov.

At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodation should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2773, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

10/3 & 10/10/24

CAPITAL BUDGETS MEETING Presentation of Superintendent’s Recommended FY 2026-FY 2031 CIP & CAPP Budgets.

School Board FY 2026-FY 2031 CIP & CAPP Work Session School Board FY 2026-FY 2031 CIP & CAPP Public Hearing / Work Session School Board FY 2026-FY 2031 CIP & CAPP Work Session (if needed) School Board Adoption of FY 2026-FY 2031 CIP & CAPP Budgets

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

Details on how to sign up to speak at the November 19 public hearing will be provided at www.lcps.org/o/lcps/page/citizen-participation. In-person sign-up will also be available on the evening of November 19 between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

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

Kevin L. Lewis, Chief Operations Officer Loudoun County Public Schools Department of Support Services 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, Virginia 20148 Email: LCPSPLAN@LCPS.ORG 10/3 - 12/5/24

TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE WILL BE ACCEPTING COMPETITIVE BIDS PROPOSALS FOR: Professional Management Services of an experienced and qualified event management services provider to perform, plan, and execute the annual Town of Lovettsville Oktoberfest held the last full weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) of September.

Proposals for EVENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR LOVETTSVILLE OKTOBERFEST, RFP 2024-0002 will be accepted until prior to 4:00 p.m. on November 1, 2024. The solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting the Town’s website at www.lovettsvilleva.gov/project-request-for-bids/ The mailing of proposals is preferred, however, if a proposal is hand delivered, it will be received in the Town of Lovettsville Government Office at 6 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia 20180 and date stamped by a staff member Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. holidays excepted. Requests for information related to this Request for Proposal should be directed to: Jason Cournoyer, Town Manager at (540) 755-3000 or townmanager@lovettsvilleva.gov.

10/10/24

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

Legal Notices NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS October 3, 2024 County of Loudoun - P.O. Box 7000 - Leesburg, Virginia 20177-7000 - 703-777-0420 These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the County of Loudoun.

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS On or about October 30, 2024, the County of Loudoun will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of Housing Choice Vouchers - Project Based, under Section 8 (o) of the U.S Housing Act of 1937, as amended, to undertake a project known as: Avonlea Senior Apartments, an affordable multi-family rental housing project in the County of Loudoun to serve senior households with incomes at 60 percent area median income and lower. The project involves the construction of 130 senior apartments built on a 6.32-acre parcel located at the intersection of Avonlea Grand Drive and Avonlea Center Drive in South Riding, VA 20152. The project will be a five-story building that is part of a larger development, and residents will have access to the community amenities provided by the larger Avonlea Town Center homeowner’s association. Overall, the location provides good access to employment and other amenities for residents. The estimated project cost is $66.7 million.

The project was awarded eight (8) Project-Based Vouchers with an estimated value of $205,560 per year.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT The County of Loudoun has determined that the above-identified project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development, 106 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg, VA 20175 and is available for public examination and copying, upon request, during normal business hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development, via email to housing@loudoun.gov or via mail to the Housing Finance Project Manager, P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg, VA 20177-7400. All comments received by 5:00 p.m. on October 23, 2024, will be considered by the County of Loudoun prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds to HUD. Comments should

specify which Notice provided herein they are addressing.

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION The County of Loudoun certifies to HUD that Mr. Tim Hemstreet, in his capacity as County Administrator of the County of Loudoun, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the County of Loudoun to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the County of Loudoun’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the County of Loudoun; (b) the County of Loudoun has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted via email until further notice in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to: HUD, Office of Public and Indian Housing Laurel Davis, Director Laurel.L.Davis@HUD.gov Copied on the transmittal should include James Brown and Linda T. Scott. Potential objectors should contact the Washington, D.C. HUD Office of Public and Indian Housing at (202) 275-6306 to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Tim Hemstreet, County Administrator Certifying Officer.

10/3, 10/10 & 10/17/24

ONLINE. ALWAYS. LOUDOUNNOW.COM

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 29

Legal Notices ORDER OF PUBLICATION

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE MIDDLEBURG TOWN COUNCIL

Case No.: JJ028308-07-00

Case No.: JJ047581-01-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Emerson Lopez Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Unknown Father

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Haseena Ali Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Mahmood Ali, father

The Middleburg Town Council will a hold public hearing beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 to hear comments on the following:

The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing in child in need of services matter pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-228 and 16.1241 for Emerson Lopez.

The object of this suit is to hold a status hearing in child in need of services matter pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-228 and 16.1-241 for Haseena Ali.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before November 19, 2024 at 3:00pm.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Mahmood Ali, father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before October 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

10/3, 10/10, 10/17 & 10/24

10/10/24

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Zoning Text Amendment 24-02 An Ordinance to Amend Articles II, X, And XI of the Middleburg Zoning Ordinance pertaining to Definitions for Bed & Breakfast, Domestic Employee, and Family; Use Regulations for Bed & Breakfast and Rooming & Boarding House in Residential and Commercial Districts; and Use Regulations for Dwellings in Commercial Districts.

The hearing will take place at the Town Hall, 10 W. Marshall Street, Middleburg, Virginia.

The application materials may be reviewed online at www.middleburgva.gov/publichearings or in the Town Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. Questions may be directed to Deputy Town Manager Will Moore at (540) 687-5152 or by email at wmoore@middleburgva.gov The Town of Middleburg strives to make its hearings accessible to all. Please advise of accommodations the Town can make to help you participate in the hearing.

10/10 & 10/17/24

ABC LICENSE

ABC LICENSE

Sai Annapurna, LLC, trading as AKSHAYA PATRA, 43150 Broadlands Center Plz, Unit 166, Ashburn, VA .

The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Restaurant, Wine, Beer, Mixed Beverages, On and Off Premises.

Aparanji Konduri, owner Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices.

Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

Ebisu Sushi and Thai LLC, trading as Ebisu Sushi and Thai, 101 S. King St., Leesburg, VA. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Retail Restaurant or Caterer Application Restaurant, Wine, Beer, Mixed Beverages, Consumed On and Off Premises.

John Puglise, Owner Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices.

Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

10/3 & 10/10/24

10/2 & 10/10/24

LEGAL NOTICE Loudoun Fair and Associates (L.F.A) Annual Business Meeting Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at 7PM At the Loudoun County Fairgrounds Sykes Hall 17558 Dry Mill Road Leesburg, VA 20175 This annual business meeting is open for all members and 4H Club Leaders are encouraged to attend. L.F.A. will hold elections for directors and officer positions for 2025. All individuals interested in running for open Director positions or officers are encouraged to reach out to the secretary, Tina Hernandez at 571-338-4355, or coors911@hotmail.com.

10/10/24

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) The Town of Leesburg will accept proposals electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia.gov), until 3:00 p.m. on November 6, 2024 for the following: RFP No. 100420-FY25-22 GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES FOR TOWN EVENTS The Town of Leesburg is soliciting sealed proposals from qualified firms interested in graphic design services for eight major annual events. The successful offeror will work with the Town to provide continued graphic design services for eight events to include but not limited to logo, program, and advertisement designs throughout the fiscal year.

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

10/10/24

LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS FOR: PROJECT LABOR AGREEMENT CONSULTING SERVICES, IFB No. 642826 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, October 31, 2024.

Solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting our web site at www.loudoun. gov/procurement . If you do not have access to the Internet, call (703) 777-0403, M - F, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

WHEN CALLING, PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY TYPE OF DISABILITY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCUREMENT. 10/10/24

yourhand, hand, anywhere, anywhere, In InInyour your hand, anywhere,anytime. anytime. anytime.

Downloadthe theLoudounNow LoudounNow mobile app today from Download Download the LoudounNow mobile mobile app app today today from from the Apple App or Google Play stores. the theApple AppleApp Appor orGoogle GooglePlay Playstores. stores.

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

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 Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following: LEGI-2023-0099, KINCORA VILLAGE CENTER LAND BAY N: SPEX-2023-0033 (Special Exception) Covenant Capital Partners, LLC, has submitted an application for a special exception for approximately 1.81-acres of land located along the east side of Russell Branch Parkway (Route 1061), west of Sully Road (Route 28), and north of Gloucester Parkway (Route 2150) in the Broad Run Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as: PINs 042-49-4764-000, 042-497147-000, and 041-19-6879-000, Tax Map #s /80/W/1///N2C/, /80/W/1///N2A/, and /80/W/1///N2B/. For SPEX-2023-0033, the applicant seeks to construct a car wash in the PD-MUB (Planned Development – Mixed Use Business) Legacy Suburban Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance.

LEGI-2023-0111, OCEAN COURT SUBSTATION: CMPT-2023-0007 & SPEX-2024-0030 (Commission Permit, Special Exception) Dominion Energy Virginia has submitted applications for a commission permit and special exception, for approximately 17.02 acres of land located just west of Pacific Blvd, south of Moran Rd and North of Relocation Drive in the Sterling Election District (the Subject Property), The Subject Property is more particularly described as 22429 Pacific Boulevard, Virginia, PIN: 045-49-4862-000, Tax Map # /94/////////4/.

For CMPT-2023-0007, the applicant seeks a commission permit to permit the development of a “Major Utility” substation in accordance with the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance (Zoning Ordinance). For SPEX-2024-0030, the applicant seeks a special exception to permit the development of a “Major Utility” substation use in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

LEGI-2023-0096, STRATUS SUBSTATION: CMPT-2023-0013, ZCPA-2023-0007 & SPEX-2023-0031 (Commission Permit, Zoning Concept Plan Amendment, and Special Exception) Darab Ventures One LLC. has submitted applications for a commission permit, a zoning concept plan amendment, and special exception for approximately 96.74 acres of land located a quarter mile north of the Dulles Greenway (Route 267) at the intersection of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 606) and Shellhorn Road (Route 643) (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as 22210 Loudoun County Parkway, Virginia, PIN: 062-25-6361, Tax Map # /79//////// V1/. For CMPT-2023-001, the applicant seeks to construct a Utility, Major (Utility Substation) under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. For ZCPA-2023-0007 the applicant seeks to amend Proffer III.C to revise the 15-foot wall height to 12foot wall height. For SPEX-2023-0031 the applicant seeks to waive the landscape buffer requirements along the northern and southeastern perimeters. ZCPA-20230007 and SPEX-2023-0031 are being processed under the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance pursuant to the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance Grandfathering Resolution, dated December 13, 2023.

DOAM-2024-0002, LOUDOUN COUNTY LAND SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE AND LOUDOUN COUNTY FACILITIES STANDARDS MANUAL AMENDMENTS DAM BREAK INUNDATION ZONES (Development Ordinance Amendment) Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-2204, the Virginia Dam Safety Act (Virginia Code §10.1-604 et seq.) and Virginia Impounding Structure Regulations (4VAC50-20-10,

et seq.), and a Resolution of Intent to Amend adopted by the Board of Supervisors (“Board”) on September 17, 2024, notice is hereby given of proposed amendments to the Loudoun County Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO) and the Loudoun County Facilities Standards Manual (FSM) to incorporate Virginia Code and Virginia Administrative Code requirements for state-regulated impounding structures. These amendments will propose revisions to Chapter 1245 of the LSDO, and Chapters 5 and 8 of the FSM, and such other Chapters, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the LSDO and FSM as necessary to implement and maintain consistency with the foregoing amendments or as otherwise necessary to correct typos within, update internal cross-references to, and further clarify the requirements of, the above-mentioned Chapters of the LSDO and FSM. The public purposes of these amendments are to achieve the purposes listed in Section 15.2-2200 of the Code of Virginia and to assure the orderly subdivision of land and its development and the public necessity, convenience, and general welfare.

Description of proposed amendments to the LSDO: Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1245, Development Standards, include without limitation the following: • Establish new Section 1245.15, Development in Mapped Dam Break Inundation Zones, to require development in mapped dam break inundation zones to comply with applicable FSM standards.

Description of proposed amendments to the FSM: Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 5, Water Resource Management, include without limitation the following: • Renumber existing FSM Section 5.500, References, to FSM Section 5.600, and establish new FSM Section 5.500, Development in Mapped Dam Break Inundation Zones, to implement State requirements for development in mapped dam break inundation zones regarding the following: o Review of the dam break inundation zone map for the affected impounding structure, o Notification of the affected impounding structure’s owner, o Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) determination of potential impacts of the proposed development on the spillway design flood standards required for the impounding structure, and o Actions the developer or subdivider must take if DCR determines that said preliminary plat, construction plans and profiles, or site plan would change the spillway design flood standards for the impounding structure.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 8, Administrative Procedures, include without limitation the following: • Establish new FSM Subsection 8.101.A.22, Mapped Dam Break Inundation Zones, regarding required information and notes to be depicted for dam break inundation zones, • Add “Mapped Dam Break Inundation Zones (see 8.101)” as a requirement for the following: o 8.102 Preliminary Plat of Subdivision (SBPL), o 8.103 Plats for Subdivision and Other Miscellaneous Plats, o 8.103.6 Easement Plats – Creation and Vacation, o 8.103.7 Dedication/Vacation Plats (DEDI), o 8.103.8 AR-1 and AR-2 Division Plats (SBBD), o 8.106 Construction Plans and Profiles (CPAP), and o 8.107 Site Plans (STPL) and Rural Economy Site Plans (REST).

(continued on next page)

OCTOBER 10, 2024

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Legal Notices DOAM-2024-0003, LOUDOUN COUNTY LAND SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE AND LOUDOUN COUNTY FACILITIES STANDARDS MANUAL AMENDMENTS IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE (Development Ordinance Amendment) Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-2204, and a Resolution of Intent to Amend adopted by the Board of Supervisors (“Board”) on September 17, 2024, notice is hereby given of proposed amendments to the Loudoun County Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO) and the Loudoun County Facilities Standards Manual (FSM) that are necessary to implement ZOAM-2020-0001, Zoning Ordinance Rewrite, that resulted in the adoption of a new Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance (“Zoning Ordinance”). Contemporaneously with the adoption of the Zoning Ordinance, the Board adopted a resolution that authorized and directed the Director of Building and Development (Director) to issue Interim Technical and Procedural Newsletters (Tech Memos) as needed to implement the Zoning Ordinance and prevent delays in processing land development applications. The first three Tech Memos were issued by the Director on June 13, 2024, with an effective date of July 25, 2024, and provided interim standards regarding Land Engineering, Natural Resources, and Land Planning necessary to implement the Zoning Ordinance. DOAM-2023-0003 proposes to formally adopt and incorporate into the LSDO and FSM, as appropriate, the standards provided by the aforesaid three Tech Memos. These amendments will propose revisions to Chapters 1241, 1243, 1244, and 1245 of the LSDO, and Chapters 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 of the FSM, and such other Chapters, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the LSDO and FSM as necessary to implement and maintain consistency with the foregoing amendments or as otherwise necessary to correct typos within, update internal cross-references to, and further clarify the requirements of, the above-mentioned Chapters of the LSDO and FSM. The public purposes of these amendments are to achieve the purposes listed in Section 15.2-2200 of the Code of Virginia and to assure the orderly subdivision of land and its development and the public necessity, convenience, and general welfare.

Description of proposed amendments to the LSDO: Proposed amendments to all sections of the LSDO include without limitation the following: • Update and correct cross references in the LSDO to replace specific references to the Zoning Ordinance with general references to the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1241.05, Definitions, include without limitation the following: • Revise the definition of “Originating Tract” in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance definition of “Originating Tract.”

• Revise the definition of “Alleys” in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance to add a list of zoning districts where alleys are permitted to serve as primary access under certain circumstances.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1243.05.2, Low Density Development Waivers, include without limitation the following: • Delete this section, as Low Density Development Waivers are no longer permitted under the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1243.10, Construction Plans and Profiles, include without limitation the following: • Delete the reference to Section 6-1509 of the Zoning Ordinance, as submitting a preliminary plat in conjunction with a rezoning application is no longer permitted under the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1244.01, Applicability of Site Plan Regulations, include without limitation the following: • Replace duplicative regulations with a cross reference to the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1245.02, Private Access Easement Roads and Private Streets, include without limitation: • Revise private access road requirements in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to LSDO Section 1245.02.02, Private Access Easement Low Density Residential Development, include without limitation the following: • Delete this section, as Low Density Development Waivers are no longer permitted under the Zoning Ordinance.

Description of proposed amendments to the FSM: Proposed amendments to all sections of the FSM include without limitation the following: • Replace references to the Mountainside Development Overlay District (MDOD) with Mountainside Overlay District (MOD) in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance • Replace references to “communal” water systems, water supply, sewer systems, sanitary sewer systems, systems, and wells with “community” water systems, water supply sewer systems, sanitary sewer systems, and wells in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 4, Transportation, include without limitation the following: • Revise Section 4.330.D.3.f, Alleys, in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance to add a list of zoning districts where alleys are permitted to serve as primary access under certain circumstances • Revise Section 4.400.B, Geometrics, to establish new parking geometry and identification standards for motorcycle parking spaces and stacking standards for drive-through facilities or similar designated pickup or delivery zones in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 7, Environmental Design Standards, include without limitation the following: • Revise Section 7.110, General Requirements, to provide lighting and photometric plan standards in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance and delete the exception for the Planned Development – Countryside Village (PD-CV) zoning district, which no longer exists under the Zoning Ordinance.

• Reformatted Section 7.120, Lighting Standards, to clarify standards.

• Revise Section 7.301, Landscape Plantings, to add a cross-reference to the Zoning Ordinance regarding minimum sizes required for each plant.

• Revise Section 7.302, Tree Conservation and Landscape Plans, to: o Establish a new standard to identify cultivars on the tree planting schedule. o Establish new standards for professionals who are permitted prepare Tree Conservation and Landscape Plans in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance. o Establish new planting standards regarding compliance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Plant Material Requirements in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance add a reference to the Virginia Stormwater BMP Clearinghouse. o Establish new standards for addressing previously compacted soils. o Establish new standards regarding tree proximity to any restrictive barriers, such as curbs, walls, sidewalks, and other paved areas for new plantings used to meet canopy, landscaping and/or buffering and screening requirements. o Establish new diversity requirements for shrubs. o Revise the Sample Landscape Table to add a Native column and correct the Scientific and Common Name columns.

• Establish new Section 7.306, Tree Cover Inventory, regarding tree cover inventory map standards for projects located within the Mountainside Overlay District and Public Water/Sewer Utility Lines in RSCR Adjacent Steep Slopes or Very Steep Slope Areas or Special Exceptions for Errors in Very Steep Slopes in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance. (continued on next page)

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OCTOBER 10, 2024

Legal Notices • Revise Chapter 7, Table 3 – Trees and Shrubs to: identify “Native Plant, Regional Native” and Small Deciduous Trees and Deciduous and Evergreen Shrubs with conspicuous flowers in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance; correct Scientific and Common Names, and other terminology used in Table 3; add or delete certain Large Deciduous, Small Deciduous, and Evergreen trees, and Deciduous and Evergreen Shrubs; delete the designation for Parking Lot plantings; add species to the designation for Overhead Utility Line plantings; and revise the Canopy Coverage of certain tree species.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 8, Administrative Procedures, include without limitation the following: • Revise Sections 8.106, Construction Plans and Profiles, and 8.107, Site Plans (STPL) and Rural Economy Site Plans (REST), to establish new standards for plans to include data regarding photometric plans, and designations, tabulations, and calculations regarding affordable housing (Affordable Dwelling Units (ADUs), Unmet Housing Needs Units (UHNUs), and Affordable Housing Units (AHUs)) in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

• Revise Sections 8.102, Preliminary Plat of Subdivision (SBPL), 8.103, Plats for Subdivision and Other Miscellaneous Plats, and 8.107, Site Plans (STPL) and Rural Economy Site Plans (REST), to establish new standard for a written agreement regarding provision of ADUs if fewer than 24 dwelling units are proposed in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

• Delete Section 8.103.C.10, regarding two year maintenance contracts for private communal (community) water and/or sewer systems, as such systems are no longer are permitted under the Zoning Ordinance.

Copies the full text of the proposed ordinance are on file with the County Administrator and may be examined be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Office of County Administrator, Information Desk, First Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703777-0246 (option 5), to request hard copies or electronic copies. Additional project files related to land use applications and land use ordinances may be reviewed electronically at loudoun.gov/landmarc. 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 (option 5).

Copies of the proposed plans, ordinances, or amendments for each item listed above may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Office of County Administrator, Information Desk, First Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703-777-0246 (option 5), to request hard copies or electronic copies. Additional project files related to land use applications and land use ordinances may be reviewed electronically at loudoun. gov/landmarc. 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 (option 5).

NOTICE OF RIVIAN AUTOMOTIVE, LLC HEARING ON OPERATION OF DEALERSHIP BY MANUFACTURER

Planning Commission work sessions and public hearings are held in the Board Room of the Government Center. Public hearings and work sessions are televised on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and are also are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings.

Members of the public desiring to do so may appear and present their views during the public hearing. Public comment will be received only for those items listed for public hearing. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, are encouraged to sign-up in advance; however, speakers may sign-up during the hearing. If you wish to sign-up in advance, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246 (option 5) prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing; however, speakers may also sign-up at the public hearing. Written comments concerning any item before the Commission are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Planning Commission, P.O. Box 7000 Leesburg, VA 20177-7000, 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 for the Clerk’s records. Members of the public may also submit comments on land use items electronically at loudoun.gov/landapplications. 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 to request additional time to speak on behalf of such organization.

Regularly scheduled Planning Commission public hearings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. In the event the public hearing cannot be conducted on that date due to weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend the hearing, the public hearing will be continued to the next day (Wednesday). In the event the public hearing may not be held on that Wednesday due to weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend the hearing, the public hearing may be continued to the first Thursday of the next month.

Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings. 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 (option 5). Three business days advance notice is requested.

BY ORDER OF:MICHELLE FRANK, CHAIR LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

10/3 & 10/10/24

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

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), under the Code of Virginia 46.2-1572(4) and 46.2-1573, is conducting a formal evidentiary hearing at the request of Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian), a Commonwealth-licensed manufacturer of electric vehicles. Rivian seeks an eligibility determination to be both a manufacturer and a dealer of motor vehicles in Loudoun County, Virginia or the city of Sterling, Virginia. According to Va. Code 46.2-1572(4), Rivian must establish that there is no dealer independent of the manufacturer available in the above-mentioned community or trade area to own and operate the franchise in a manner consistent with the public interest. The formal evidentiary hearing will take place on October 17, 2024, at 9 a.m. EDT at DMV Headquarters located at 2300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23269. Any party interested in this matter is invited to attend the hearing and provide relevant information. Please send an email to DMV atdiane.adams-strickland@ dmv.virginia.gov requesting the information to attend. If you have documentation you would like the hearing officer and Rivian to review, please submit it to DMV at diane.adams-strickland@dmv. virginia.gov by 5 p.m. EDT on October 10, 2024.

It is ORDERED that the defendant Sabrina Whitney, mother, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before November 19, 2024 at 10:00am.

9/26, 10/3 & 10/10/2024

10/3, 10/10, 10/17 & 10/24

Case No.: JJ048585-03-00 Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Carlton Platt Loudoun County Department of Family Services v. Sabrina Whitney, mother The object of this suit is to hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Carlton Platt.

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Legal Notices

Misc.

TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO THE LEESBURG TOWN PLAN INCLUDING UPDATES TO THE CRESCENT DISTRICT MASTER PLAN AND UPDATES TO VARIOUS SECTIONS OF LEGACY LEESBURG TO REFLECT UPDATES

VEHICLE AUCTION

Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, October 17, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 to consider amendments to the “Town Plan” to update the Crescent District Master Plan (CDMP). The CDMP is defined as a Small Area Comprehensive Plan as described in Va. Code § 15.2-2303.4.E and is designated as a revitalization and redevelopment area.

The CDMP is included in the Town Plan (Legacy Leesburg) by reference. The CDMP will provide new and updated policy guidance for the Crescent District as depicted in the figure above. The updated CDMP will reduce the overall size of the Crescent Area Planning Designation in Legacy Leesburg, establish new “place types” and land use policy guidance to supplement the Town Plan, and provide new policy guidance regarding streetscape and roadway planning.

The proposed Town Plan Amendment will also include revisions to various other sections of the Town Plan to recognize the CDMP and allow its policies to supersede certain policies already in the Town Plan. Revisions will include but not be limited to a revised map showing a reduced size of the Crescent Area and revisions to various policies in Legacy Leesburg that reference the CDMP and planning efforts surrounding the CDMP. The CDMP will include the following topics: • An introduction with discussion of the CDMP purpose, planning process, history, current issues, emerging trends, and planning context; • A discussion of the CDMP planning objectives including the vision, goals, guiding principles, organizational framework, and opportunities and constraints; • Updated transportation policy including discussion of future streets and blocks, street design recommendations, pedestrian infrastructure, parking, and transit; • New CDMP place types with supplemental land use guidance including “Activity Center”, “Commercial Corridor”, and “Mixed Density Residential”; • Implementation polices that address zoning recommendations, streetscape recommendations, financing recommendations, architectural guidelines, site design guidelines, and building retrofit guidelines.

Additional information about these proposed Town Plan amendments and copies are available at the Department of Community Development located at 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia 20175 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by visiting the Town website: http://www.leesburgva.gov/crescentdistrict, or by calling Richard Klusek, Land Use Manager, at 703-771-2758 or by emailing rklusek@leesburgva.gov. This Town Plan Amendment is identified as case number TLTPAM2024-0002, “Crescent District Master Plan Update”.

At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning this matter will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the Planning Commission meeting should contact the Clerk of Commission at (703) 771-2740, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

MD Repo Vehicles For Public Sale at ADESA Washington, DC. All Makes and Models Running Weekly Details can be found at www.adesawashingtondc.com Terms: State and local orders will be strictly enforced at the sale, including social distancing and limits on the number of people permitted to gather in certain areas. All attendees must comply with such procedures or will be required to leave the premises. We strongly recommend that all attendees wear face coverings for the protection of themselves and our staff. Bidder agrees to register and pay a refundable $500 cash deposit plus a non-refundable $20 entry fee before the Sale starts. The balance of the purchase is due in full by 5:00pm on sale day. vehicles are AS-IS and are subject to a buy fee based on the sale price of the vehicle. Only cash or certified funds will be accepted. No vehicle will be released until Payment is made in full. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted.

VEHICLE AUCTION

ADESA WASHINGTON DC - 705-996-1100 44475 OLD OX ROAD, DULLES, VA 20166 20+Chase repossessions will be offered to the public sale (monthly) on Wednesdays (11/6/24, 12/4/24). Auction doors open at 8:00 a.m. Sale starts at 9:50 a.m. ET. Registered persons may preview/inspect vehicles on the day of the sale before bidding. Bids accepted only when a vehicle is presented for sale. The auctioneer will conclude the sale when bidding stops. All results will be final by 5:00 p.m. Terms: Cash or Certified Check.

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Post your job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online.

Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only.

EOE/ADA.

To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs.

Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications.

All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35.

Regular Full-Time Positions

9/3/19

10:58 AM

NHLEmployerCard2.pdf

1

9/3/19

10:58 AM

Position

Department

Salary Range

Closing Date

Assistant Project Manager for Construction or Project Manager for Construction

Public Works & Capital Projects

$74,596-$164,924 DOQ

Open until filled

Communications Technician (Police Dispatch)

Police

$53,000-$105,463 DOQ

Open until filled

Police Officer (Entry Level)

Police

$65,000 - $112,820 DOQ

Open until filled

Police Officer (Virginia Lateral)

Police

$75,246 - $130,601 DOQ

Open until filled

Traffic Technician I or Traffic Technician II

Public Works & Capital Projects

$53,000-$122,908 DOQ

Open until filled

Utility Project Technician

Utilities

$68,690 - $139,839 DOQ

Open until filled

Utility Plant Maintenance Crew Leader

Utilities

$60,373 - $122,908 DOQ

Open until filled

Utility Plant Technician: Trainee Technician or Senior

Utilities

$52,000 - $113,292 DOQ

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Utilities

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PAGE 36

Domestic Violence continued from page 3 were present during my abusive relationship with my ex-husband are still with me even despite the therapy and years of recovery and support from my parents,” she said.

“I saw the warning signs. I saw the red flags. But I was too proud. I was too scared and too proud to admit that I made the wrong decision and I needed to walk away from the violence and the mental and emotional abuse I suffered and that my oldest daughter suffered. I didn’t realize the full impact of what she went through, until after I made that decision to walk away,” Quijano said.

That decision came on a night she thought she could die.

“One of the final moments was when he was drunk and going through a rage, and he lost control, and he threw me against my oldest daughter’s bookshelves and I fell on it. I broke the bookcase. I had bruises all over my back, and then he picked up the recliner and held it over me.

And in that moment, I thought, ‘this is it.

This is the end,’” she told the crowd. Her daughter ran in and stood between her parents. “She said, ‘please, Daddy, don’t hurt mommy.’”

“And honestly, she probably saved my life that day because I genuinely believed that that was it.”

Quijano said that one of the big myths about domestic violence is that it is easy to walk away.

“Well, it’s not easy. The few times I did.

I was terrified, and thankfully, we had law enforcement present the final incident was when he lost his temper again. He threw a toy that was aimed at me, and it ended up hitting [her daughter’s] forehead. She had a gigantic bruise welt, and she was crying. … He shook me and that was when I did call the police.”

When officers returned to the home later to serve papers on her husband, a six-hour stand-off ensued, with the SWAT team called to the scene and smoke bombs used to make the arrest.

“That was a real defining moment, because I finally reached the point where I realized I’m done. I can’t do this anymore,” Quijano said.

“This is tough to share my story, but I really do want to serve as a beacon of hope to those who are struggling, who are scared, who don’t know what to do,” Quijano said. “You will be OK. You just need to contact LAWS or contact someone who you trust, tell them what’s going on and take that next step. It is scary and a lot of the tragedies happen because victims feel like no one’s going to be there to support them. … I just want people to know you are strong and that no matter how hard it

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

gets, there is support, there is help.”

Nikki Fleming said she rebuilt her life after leaving an abusive relationship after three years. She broke up with her boyfriend after realizing he was controlling and manipulative and had worked to isolate her from her friends and family.

After the breakup, they found themselves at the same concert and met on a subway platform.

“He snapped my phone and smashed it beyond repair. He physically dragged me away from the platform by my hair and proceeded to abuse me until a group of strangers approached, which distracted him, and I was finally able to run,” Fleming said.

“The abuse happened for about 10 minutes. That group of strangers saved my life. They gave me water and urged me to call the police,” she said. “After years of protecting my ex and normalizing his abuse, it felt almost impossible to seek help. Eventually, I made the call and began the process of holding my abuser accountable.”

She moved across the country to start a new life.

“My ex was prosecuted and incarcerated for what he did to me, but I was still shattered physically, emotionally and mentally. The physical injuries— dislocated hips, a damaged back, bruised face— were nothing compared to the emotional scars” Fleming said. “My anxiety was crippling, and I lived in constant fear looking over my shoulder, thinking that I saw his face in every crowd. I deactivated my social medias and tried to disappear with support of family. Through lots of guided healing, I was able to start over. I found a new home where I could feel safe and began the process of rebuilding my life.

It wasn’t easy, but slowly I began to find peace. I surrounded myself with supportive people, and finally, was able to focus on my own healing.”

“Today, I stand before you as one story of life after abuse. I’m living the life I once thought was impossible. I’ve rebuilt my business from the ground up, surrounded by a community that loves and supports me. I have a partner who cherishes me and lifts me up, and my family is now nearby, continuing to be my biggest supporters,” she said.

“God works in amazing ways, and I want to go back and hug that broken girl I once was and tell her to keep moving forward, because when she finally realized her worth, her whole world, would finally change.”

Find out more about domestic violence resources available in Loudoun County at loudoun.gov/256/Domestic-Violence-Sexual-Assault-Service n

Hurricane Relief continued from page 1 front line of the recovery efforts.

Some are getting even closer. Kuhn Aviation owner Scott Kuhn took a helicopter to the region and shuttled supplies from collection sites to more remote locations.

Also, Rooney and KA Chief Pilot John Loveless took a Pilatus PC-12 loaded with about 1,500 pounds to a remote ridgetop airport in Jackson County near North Carolina’s border with Georgia and Tennessee.

“The townspeople were out there to meet us. It was so cool,” Rooney said. “I guess we were probably the biggest airplane that had gotten in.”

“Those people are remote. They’re way out there. And these little kids couldn’t wait to see the airplane. It was a neat experience,” he said.

When the piles of supplies got too big for the Leesburg operation to shuttle, FedEx filled a truck to transfer to its cargo aircraft at Dulles Airport.

Loveless said items of big demand included diapers, feminine products, baby items and common medical supplies.

“Chewable Benadryl is really big right now, especially with all the first responders and the linemen because they’re out going through the woods trying to fix the power poles and they’re getting stung left and right by yellow jackets and wasps.

So, they’re just going through chewable Benadryl like its candy,” he said.

Those donating supplies and the pilots making flights had a big impact.

“It’s kind of cool that people are happy to go out of their way, take a day off, dig into their wallets and help out,” Rooney said.

He said one donor showed up with $1,000 worth of goods from Costco.

“It’s really amazing how this community has all come together. It’s absolutely stunning,” Rooney said.

Leesburg resident Fernando Hernandez was among the Smokehouse Pilots who responded to the call and volunteered at the collection hangar.

“When I showed up there were already a few of these guys here who had already set up a few rows of these things. It wasn’t quite as organized,” he said. Now there is a well-ordered system of greeting donors, weighing the items, and preparing the 50-pound bundles.

“Pilots are A-type personalities. We just need some instruction, and we just take over. That’s what we do. So, we don’t need a lot of poking,” Hernandez said.

Loveless said the ad-hoc fleet of small planes, from Leesburg and other airports around the region, made a difference.

“With hundreds of general aviation airplanes, some making multiple flights a day, we can move a lot more goods than a mili-

OCTOBER 10, 2024

tary or government airplane. Even though they can move a lot in one flight, we can move about three times as much with the same amount of expense,” he said.

Organizers knew it would be a limited operation. They made the call on Tuesday to wrap it up—after transporting more than 225,000 pounds of supplies. This week, two JK Moving trucks picked up supplies from the Kuhn Aviation hangar for delivery to the Asheville area. Two other trucks were loaded with hay donated by Winchester Farm, Nicholson Farm, and the JK Community Farm and bound for North Carolina.

Also on Tuesday, three trucks and a trailer full of donated supplies departed to North Carolina from St. Francis De Sales church in Purcellville.

Led by Father James Gould, the church has been collecting items for a week and met Monday night to organize and wrap the supplies before loading them for the trek.

Parish Facilities Manager Rick Smith and his wife Molly, said Gould coordinated the effort and was supported by the Knights of Columbus, members of the church and community members.

“People started coming right away bringing gift cards and tons of stuff,” Rick Smith said. “I’m just sort of surprised by the generosity, it’s just incredible.”

The church collected 30 pallets of items including food, water, inflatable beds, toilet paper, paper towels, batteries and a generator.

The pallets were donated by the Zurschmeide wineries while neighboring business owner Tony Jasinski donated his time and equipment to move and lift the loaded pallets into the trucks.

The team was expected to reach North Carolina on Wednesday morning to drop off the supplies before driving back.

After an earlier run to Georgia, a team from America’s 911 Foundation is planning a trip to North Carolina on Sunday to deliver water, Clorox, trash bags, cleaning gloves and other supplies. Locally, there are collecting donations at Loudoun Brewing Company in Leesburg.

It’s not just supplies that Loudoun is sending south.

Major Robin Hackbarth, the corps officer of The Salvation Army of Loudoun, joined a team of Salvation Army trained disaster response personnel from around the region to serve victims in Columbia, SC. The Salvation Army’s mobile feeding units, working in cooperation with Southern Baptist Disaster Relief field kitchens, are providing food and drinks, and care to rescue workers and survivors.

Hackbarth reported the area remained without power and its residents were bracing for yet another catastrophic weather event as Hurricane Milton crosses the Gulf of Mexico. n

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

PAGE 37

A Loudoun Moment

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Saturday marked the opening of bow season with archers heading into the woods early in the morning to begin the hunt. Early archery season continues through Nov. 15.

Farmers' Round Table continued from page 3 underutilized.

Other states facing the similar challenges are using tax credit programs for young farmers. However, those programs are not providing enough incentive on the landowner side, Adams said.

John Magistro, who works for the county’s Department of Economic Development as its agriculture and business development officer, said the department also has a service to connect landowners with new farmers looking to lease land, but agreed that there is no economic incentive for the parties to partner together.

Earman said another part of the struggle for Loudoun farmers is competing with other farmers outside of Virginia because of Loudoun’s proximity to West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania.

“One of the issues we’ve noticed is especially with the incredibly valuable con-

nection to high dollar consumers, which we have, that’s one of the things that makes Loudoun small farms so successful. … Our largest connection point in Loudoun, where we meet the most of our consumers, has one local producer these days, all of the others have been priced out of joining that market. So, I think there’s a lot of work to be done in both promoting what Virginia-grown means, because a lot of the producers there are from other states, and the consumers don’t know that. And I think there’s also room to be or room to improve on what is considered local.”

Branding agreed and said he was looking for policy changes that could incentivize buying Virginia-grown products.

Lohr said legislation passed earlier this year established a Virginia Verified Meat Program that allows livestock producers specific accreditation if the animals are born and raised in the state giving their products a unique label to identify it for consumers. While it has only been in

place since July, Lohr said he is hoping to see that expand to other products.

While the nation is seeing a decline in farmers, Loudoun is experiencing an uptick in farms, particularly those under between 10 and 49 acres, according to the latest agricultural census. However, the group said there still needs to be more support for new farmers.

“We need to enhance the beginning farmer tax incentive program at the state level. It’s currently a good program, but not enough young farmers are able to take advantage of it, and one of the things we need to do is to increase the credit carry forward period from one year to at least three years for landowners, so that they have more incentive to lease land to our young farmers. We have a situation here in the county where we have a growing number of very innovative, good young farmers, but their big issue is access to land. The land here is too expensive to purchase, so they need to be able to lease it. And at the state level, this is a program

that could really help us at the county level to carry that forward.”

Lohr agreed but said the challenge is finding the most effective strategy.

“To say we’re going to help you be a successful beginning farmer – what does that mean? How do we do that? There’s a whole variety of tax credits and incentives, blah, blah, blah, but at the end of the day, you have to produce a product that somebody’s willing to pay for. And then the money you get can help sustain your operation, and that’s kind of where we focus our efforts on.”

Branding said a challenge for local producers is the cost to consumers to buy local goods.

“But if there’s short term ways to bridge that gap for the market, to get them involved in the local and get them interested in local, and then we do long term, you can pull those back, but I think the market needs a little bit of impulse right now to help make that bridge between small farms and folks,” he said. n

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 38

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Opinion Relief Coming?

Is this the year you’ll be seeing car tax relief? Don’t count

Published by Loudoun Community Media 15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176 703-770-9723

KURT ASCHERMANN Executive Director kaschermann@loudounnow.org NORMAN K. STYER Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.org

County supervisors this week got another briefing on

Perhaps surprisingly, the new suggestion of eliminating

potential options to lower the bills charged to vehicle owners

the $25 vehicle license fee—a vestige of the days when we had

in light of the soaring revenues coming from data centers.

to scrape decals off our windshields each year—would have

In concept, the effort is an attempt to provide some

a greater impact for most households, especially those with

tangible pass down of that windfall into taxpayers’ pockets. In reality, supervisors aren’t willing to invest in the fiscal restraint

ADVERTISING SUSAN STYER Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.org TONYA HARDING Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.org VICKY MASHAW Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.org CRYSTAL MONNINGER Account Executive cmonninger@loudounnow.org

Loudoun Now is mailed weekly to homes in Leesburg, western Loudoun and Ashburn, and distributed for pickup throughout the county.

Online, Loudoun Now provides daily community news coverage to an audience of more than 100,000 unique monthly visitors.

inexpensive cars.

There is another option, too.

Our state legislators could fight for a fair share of the

required to make that happen.

Yes, implementing significant car tax relief would require

funds originally intended to cover the tax payments on the

tens of millions of dollars, but it wouldn’t require a budget cut.

first $20,000 of a vehicle’s value. Those per locality funding

Rather, supervisors would have less revenue available for their

allocations have been frozen in the state budget since 2004.

spending increases next year and, as pointed out to members

Unchanged in two decades, Loudoun’s $48 million allocation

of the finance committee, a smaller budget surplus.

covers just over a quarter of the bill.

The recent strategy has been to provide a token cut,

EDITORIAL HANNA PAMPALONI Reporter hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

reducing the tax rate by a nickel. That saves a car owner dozens of dollars per year.

on much.

But don’t count on much. n

LETTERS to the Editor Catch Up Editor: A few recent articles and stories about data center proliferation in Loudoun County suggest that the going rate for land for data centers is $4 million per acre. This may seem to some local landowners to be a jackpot if not a lifeline.

But valuation is a tricky topic, and I think we’ve got JV players doing the work there right now. Value is usually assessed best through the eye of the bidder, not the seller. And supply and demand. Here’s an analogy: certain acres of land in McLean or Arlington or Potomac could get around $4 million with permitted use limited to a single home. People pay that sum because they can and because there is demand.

Data center locations in Loudoun should be rare pending a fuller community and local, state, and federal government understanding of the implications of data center proliferation.

Maybe new regulations will be imposed, who knows. Until then, we are a hot spot.

We may cool down over time, especially if new broadly beneficial regulations are adopted that limit the outsize financial and environmental externality costs currently being placed on our communities.

The point is we have what Trillion Dollar companies want. Homeowners

and farmers should be charging $150 million per acre. That’s a rough average of the daily profit that Meta and Google make. And I mean that—daily profit.

They are building out as fast as they can to multiply that growth. We should relook at valuations as they are the ultimate buyers of data center services if not the actual builders.

Loudoun County itself needs to look again at the benefits it will require from data center providers and ensure that we are getting the full value of our land.

Google has advertised its beneficence with the $20 million multi-year community investment it’s made locally. Is that really enough? Think $20 million a year. For land preservation and beautification. For schools and training. Again, if $4 million can get a family a nice house in prime locations outside DC, at least $150 million should be going to our local landowners who have exactly what these trillionaire companies and their agents want.

Would they walk away and go to Ohio or Pennsylvania? Not if everyone in the country is savvy enough to know who they’re dealing with.

Let’s not fall for chump change. And regulators, don’t let carpet baggers take advantage of out of date land use and energy laws. Please catch up or we all will lose.

— R. Basra, Lovettsville

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LOUDOUNNOW.COM

OCTOBER 10, 2024

READERS’ poll

PAGE 39

CHIPshots — By Chip Beck, beckchip@aol.com

Should telecommunication towers be permitted on school campuses?

• 28.1% No, there are health concerns • • 27.0% Yes, a good use of • public property

• 25.4% Yes, a good revenue source • • 14.1% No, not related to education • • 5.4% I'm not sure •

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION:

Should county supervisors provide local car tax relief?

Share your views at loudounnow.com/polls

Leesburg Must Prioritize Residential Street Repairs

BY BRUCE GEMMILL

The streets of Leesburg, known for their charm and tranquility, are increasingly marred by a problem that is impossible to ignore: deteriorating road conditions in residential neighborhoods. The time has come for the Leesburg Town Council to act decisively to mill and replace these crumbling residential streets, an issue that has been deferred for far too long.

Residents in communities across Leesburg have expressed frustration over the town’s failure to address what has become a serious quality-of-life concern. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces have become routine obstacles for drivers and pedestrians on these residential streets. These damaged roads not only diminish the aesthetic appeal of our neighborhoods, but they also present real safety hazards— particularly for cyclists, children playing, and pedestrians. Ignoring these issues in favor of other projects or citing budgetary constraints is no longer acceptable. The need is urgent, and the solution is clear: it’s time for the council to prioritize residential street repairs as a matter of immediate public concern.

The current state of many residential streets in Leesburg is a testament to years

of neglect. The average lifespan of asphalt is around 19 years, yet numerous residential streets in town have long surpassed this benchmark, showing severe signs of deterioration. The fact that these streets have been allowed to degrade well beyond their expected lifespan is indicative of a lack of attention and action from the town’s elected officials. Every time a car rattles over a patch of broken pavement, or a cyclist swerves to avoid a deep pothole, it reflects a failure of local governance to invest in the community’s fundamental infrastructure.

While the council has been proactive in addressing many issues, the neglect of residential road maintenance is a glaring omission. A properly maintained network of residential streets is the foundation of any thriving town. When citizens see their neighborhood roads left in disrepair, it signals neglect and a lack of responsiveness to basic civic needs.

The cost of these residential street repairs can be substantial, but the cost of inaction is even higher. Poorly maintained neighborhood roads accelerate the wear and tear on vehicles, leading to increased maintenance costs for residents. Moreover, delaying repairs only compounds

the problem, as neglected streets rapidly deteriorate and become more expensive to fix over time. The town council must recognize that proactive investments in milling and replacing our residential roads are not mere expenses—they are long-term savings for the community.

There is also an economic angle to consider. Leesburg’s appeal as a desirable place to live and work is closely tied to its infrastructure and quality of life. If we continue to allow residential streets to fall into disrepair, we risk diminishing property values and discouraging new families and businesses from choosing Leesburg as their home. Well-maintained neighborhood streets send a message that the town is committed to the wellbeing of its citizens and willing to invest in the future.

The Leesburg Town Council needs to approach this issue with a clear plan and transparent communication. First, it should conduct a comprehensive assessment of all residential streets to identify those most in need of immediate attention. Next, the council must allocate sufficient resources in the budget to begin a phased milling and replacement program that addresses these specific neighborhood streets. Funding these repairs may

require difficult decisions and reallocations, but this is what responsible leadership entails.

It is also crucial for the council to engage residents throughout the process.

Clear communication about which residential streets will be prioritized, how long repairs will take, and what the expected disruptions might be will help foster understanding and patience among those affected. Moreover, inviting public feedback can help identify areas of particular concern that might otherwise be overlooked.

The state of our neighborhood roads is a daily reminder of the gap between what residents expect and what they are receiving. By taking decisive action now, the Leesburg Town Council can show its commitment to delivering on the promise of a high quality of life for everyone. The solution is straightforward: mill and replace our residential streets. What’s needed is the political will to make it happen.

For the sake of our town’s safety, prosperity, and reputation, the time to act is now. n [The writer has been a Leesburg resident since 2005 and previously served as an appointed member of the Town Council.]

LOUDOUNNOW.COM

PAGE 40

OCTOBER 10, 2024

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J C & Z AC H S I LV E Y Realtor® | Certified Appraiser jc.silvey@compass.com M: 703.577.1946 O: 703.570.5144 silveyresidential.com

Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footage are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 44927 George Washington Blvd, Ste 265 Ashburn, VA 20147 | 703.570.514