Loudoun Now for May 15, 2025

The Fog of Uncertainty: Economic Mood Sees Drop Amid Steady Data

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

While the benchmarks of the region’s economy are holding steady, the mood surrounding it is dropping, bringing with it a variety of potential problems, according to Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President and CEO Tom Barkin.

Barkin and George Mason Regional Analysis Director Terry Clower gathered with community members during a May 9 Loudoun Chamber of Commerce event to speak about the state of the economy amid federal funding and job cuts, tariffs and changing immigration policies.

“GDP was modestly negative this quarter, but if you back out one time stuff and you look at just core GDP, it actually was every bit as good as it was in the fourth quarter of last year and the first quarter of 2024 and so consumer spending and business investment still remains very solid,” Barkin said.

The unemployment rate is 4.2%, which Barkin said is where most consider its natural low to be, and inflation has decreased from 7% in June 2022 to approximately 2.5%.

Pampaloni/Loudoun

George Mason Regional Analysis Director Terry Clower speaks during a discussion on the regional economy with Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President and CEO Tom Barkin and Loudoun Chamber Board of Directors 2nd Vice Chair Dorri O'Brien on May 9.

“If you just look at the numbers, you’d say that’s an economy that’s headed exactly in the right place. The challenge we’ve got is the mood has gone south, and so business sentiment and consumer sentiment has dropped significantly, by most accounts due to a swell of actual and potential policy changes that are playing out in a very uncertain way. The way I’ve been describing it is, it’s really hard to drive when it’s foggy,” he said.

Businesses are saying there is so much uncertainty they don’t know whether to push forward or brake, Barkin said.

“That’s what I’m seeing on the business side: hiring freezes, discretionary spending being cut back, but not major layoffs, not the kind of things you do when you’ve sort of decided you’re in a negative environment,” he said.

The consumer market is much harder to read, he added.

“Consumer sentiment is historically very aligned with consumer spending, but that has not been the case over the last

ECONOMIC MOOD continues on page 34

Home Explosion Victims Seek Millions in Lawsuit Against Southern States

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpamapaloni@loudounnow.org

Firefighters injured in the February 2024 Sterling home explosion, Laura Brown, whose husband was killed in the explosion, and nearby property owners have filed a lawsuit against Southern States and two of its employees regarding the incident.

Kelley Woods, David Bulman, Maria Pia Apolonio, Eldna Smith and Sean Mohseni.

on Silver Ridge Drive. Less than an hour later the home exploded killing Trevor Brown and injuring 11 other first respond-

In addition to Brown, the plaintiffs include Brian Diamond, Karam Mashaal,

On Feb. 16, 2024 firefighters from the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company responded to a report of a gas leak at a home

SOUTHERN STATES continues on page 35

Hanna

Now

Stafford County CA Appointed as Special Prosecutor in Purcellville Recall Case

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The Loudoun County Circuit Court has appointed Stafford Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric Olsen as a special prosecutor in the recall petition for Purcellville’s mayor, vice mayor and two councilmembers.

The petition was submitted April 28 by town resident Brian Morgan, who has been leading the effort to have Mayor Christopher Bertaut, Vice Mayor Ben Nett, and councilmembers Carol Luke and Susan Khalil removed from office.

General Registrar Judy Brown has requested to extend the 10-day timeframe given to her office to certify the petition signatures until May 15.  Last month Morgan announced his team had gathered 1,088 signatures to recall

Bertaut, 1,081 for Luke, 1,085 for Khalil and 1,091 signatures for Nett. Morgan said the effort required 495 signatures to initiate a recall for each council member and the mayor based on the voter turnout last November.

Morgan said his team is working to compile evidence in their case for Olsen’s review upon the petition’s certification.

“We’ll give the evidence to the commonwealth’s attorney, then they’ll look at it all and then make determination to see if a trial is warranted,” he said.

Morgan also said he looking to work with his lawyer to see if it would be possible to have the four councilmembers suspended from serving in their town capacities while the recall case is ongoing.

The move to start a recall petition came after residents repeatedly

expressed concerns during council meetings that the council majority was having discussions between the four of them without informing the public or the remaining three members of council, and after the council voted to fire former Town Manager Rick Bremseth and replace him with former mayor Kwasi Fraser. Nett is also under investigation by the Virginia State Police after conflict-of-interest concerns were raised by residents regarding his involvement as former employee of the Purcellville Police Department.

The council had halted Fiscal Year 2026 budget talks pending legal clarity on whether Nett would be able to participate in those discussions after an advisory opinion by Loudoun Commonwealth’s Attorney Bob Anderson stated Nett should not participate. The Town Council took up the budget during

Tuesday night’s regularly scheduled meeting with Nett attending.

Virginia State Code lists several grounds for removal of an elected official including neglect of a clear, ministerial duty of the office, misuse of the office, or incompetence in the performance of the duties of the office when that neglect of duty, misuse of office, or incompetence in the performance of duties has a material adverse effect upon the conduct of the office.

Olsen, a Republican, has served as a prosecutor in Stafford County since 1989 and was elected commonwealth’s attorney in 2011.

He also was appointed to serve as the special prosecutor in a 2021 recall petition against Leesburg District School Board member Beth Barts. That case terminated when Barts resigned her seat. n

Loudoun Now Welcomes Greene as Executive Director to Lead Digital Transformation

The Board of Directors of Loudoun Community Media Inc., the nonprofit organization behind Loudoun Now, is proud to announce the appointment of Renss Greene as executive director, effective May 15.

A longtime journalist, former deputy editor of Loudoun Now, and an accomplished multimedia communicator, Greene returns to lead the organization at a pivotal moment in its evolution.

Loudoun Now, which has served as Loudoun County’s trusted local newsroom since its founding in 2015, is embarking on a bold digital transformation—from a print-centric newspaper to a dynamic, interactive news media organization. This new chapter will emphasize inclusive storytelling, digital-first reporting, and community engagement across multimedia platforms.

The goal is to better serve Loudoun’s diverse population with news and commentary that is accessible, responsive, and deeply rooted in civic life.

“Returning to Loudoun Now is like coming home, but to a home that’s ready to grow into something even greater,”

Greene said. “This is a rare and exciting opportunity to carry forward everything that’s made Loudoun Now special—its independence, its integrity, its heart—and to build on that foundation using the tools and voices that today’s readers and communities deserve.”

As executive director, Greene will oversee editorial strategy, product innovation, audience growth, and com-

munity partnerships, working closely with staff and stakeholders to ensure Loudoun Now remains a vital civic institution. He will also be the public face of the nonprofit and active in the community.

“Renss brings deep editorial roots and a forward-thinking vision,” Loudoun Community Media Board Chair Tony Nerantzis shared. “We’re excited to welcome him back to the organization he helped build—and to support his leadership as we invest in new digital formats, creative partnerships, and expanded community storytelling.

“Loudoun Now is the county’s only nonprofit professional newsroom, and we remain committed to never placing our reporting behind a paywall. This transformation is about elevating access, expanding voices, and becoming a hub for shared understanding in one of the most dynamic counties in America.”

The board has also appointed Norman K. Styer, the co-founder of Loudoun Now and a decades-long veteran of Loudoun journalism, to a new role as executive editor. In this position, Styer will continue to shape the publication’s editorial tone and

standards across new platforms, while helping Loudoun Now deepen its reach and relevance in the community.

“It’s been a privilege to help lead Loudoun Now from the beginning,” Styer said. “As we move into this next chapter, I’m looking forward to focusing on what I love most: the journalism itself. I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited to help grow it, alongside a talented team in an evolving community that trusts Loudoun Now as the independent source for quality community journalism.”

Further announcements about new content formats, community events, and digital offerings will be shared in the coming weeks.

Loudoun Now is an award-winning local news organization published by Loudoun Community Media Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving Loudoun County through independent, accessible journalism. Founded in 2015, Loudoun Now is supported by community members, sponsors, and donors, and is committed to keeping news free for all readers. n

Renss Greene

Loudoun Commission Recommends Denial of Hiddenwood Application

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

An application, described by some county leaders as one of the most difficult land use decisions they’ve ever had to make, received a recommendation of denial from the Planning Commission in a May 8 vote.

This is the second time the rezoning application, submitted by an assemblage of property owners living along Hiddenwood Lane in Arcola, has passed through the commission for review.

The group is requesting to convert nearly 30 acres from Countryside Residential – 1 to Planned Development – Industrial Park to allow for up to 334,000 square feet of light and medium industrial and commercial uses.

The land currently is in residential use. However, neighborhood residents have said that what was once a quiet, rural community is now a construction zone surrounded by data centers. While

several data centers are under development in the area, the group has raised

specific concerns about a data center planned to be built directly across Hiddenwood Lane, known as JK2. The group opposed the application that permitted the center years ago when it was first approved.

The assemblage’s original proposal last year to allow data centers on the properties eventually received narrow Planning Commission support following a threehour discussion, two failed votes and a 30-minute recess to negotiate with the group. However, that proposal was deferred indefinitely at the Board of Supervisors’ level.

That proposal was opposed by residents in Briarfield Estates community who said allowing data centers on the Hiddenwood properties would shift the problem to their neighborhood.

Because the application was shifted

Supervisors Launch White Paper Focused on Tiny Homes

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

County supervisors this week approved development of a white on paper on the possibility of using tiny homes to promote attainable homeownership opportunities for low-to-moderate income families.

The proposal stems from the board’s work to prove more attainable housing in the county and County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said she had discussed it with the Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board a while ago.

“[The paper] will simply let us know what’s possible, what’s feasible, what’s there. If we’re going to do any land banking, then we should just learn more about this possibility,” Randall said during a May 6 board meeting.

Her motion to authorize the white paper also permits the advisory board to establish an ad hoc committee and excludes the county’s rural policy zone from the project’s scope. The advisory board has already gotten a head start on the project in January forming the ad hoc committee which began work on researching the topic.

In March committee member Rebekah King submitted the body’s work to Housing and Community Development Assistant Director Brian Reagan. That paper describes tiny homes and potential options, pros and cons, and how they could

be deployed, according to the ADUAB’s March meeting minutes.

Randall said during her research of the topic, she found that both seniors and recent college graduates are interested in living in tiny homes.

“’Tiny homes can vary in meaning and is not a standard term,” according to a May 6 staff report. “A tiny home may be built on wheels or set on a foundation. Tiny homes on wheels are designed to be

easily transported, are often custom built, and address living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation within the structure. Tiny homes can also be designed as permanent, non-mobile housing, and may be modular or manufactured, shipping containers, 3-D printed, or custom-built structures.”

Randall added that if a home is on wheels, it is technically considered a mobile home.

Tiny homes are also something that

Prince William County is going to be looking at in the near future, according to Director Communications and Engagement Nikki Brown.

While that county’s current Zoning Ordinance does not mention tiny homes specifically, Brown said the county’s Comprehensive Plan calls for research into the feasibility of incorporating innovative housing such as tiny houses. The board is preparing to begin a Zoning Ordinance rewrite this year that is expected to address that guidance, Brown said.

Loudoun Board Vice Chair Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) questioned how tiny homes would be incorporated with land banking by the county government.

“Is the tie in [to the process] that the county landbanks and then sells those parcels to a developer, or presumably it would be a land lease to a developer and the developer builds a tiny home community, but the county retains the land?” he asked.

Reagan said that was one possibility that is used by other jurisdictions. Development of the project scope is expected to take a month and Reagan said they hope to finalize the paper by the end of the year.

Loudoun currently has no minimum square footage requirements for residential units, however occasionally a rezoning proffer or homeowners association will mandate minimum dwelling unit sizes. n

Contributed

Loudoun County supervisors have endorsed a white paper on the possibility of using tiny homes to promote attainable homeownership opportunities for low-to-moderate income families.

HIDDENWOOD continues on page 7

A depiction of existing and approved data centers surrounding the Hiddenwood neighborhood, which is bordered to the north by Briarfield Estates.

Seven Join Loudoun’s Women’s Hall of Fame

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Seven inductees joined the Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls’ Hall of Fame on Tuesday afternoon during the organization’s second biennial ceremony.

This year’s honorees included A Place To Be Executive Director Kim Tapper, KG&P Strategies Chief People Officer Crystal Lily-Wheeler, Loudoun County Public Schools Chief of Schools Rae Mitchell, Loudoun Education Foundation Executive Director Danielle Nadler, Loudoun Hunger Relief President and CEO Jennifer Montgomery, Silence No More Movement Founder Lisa Jones and Becoming HealthyHer Founder Breana Turner.

The Loudoun Women’s Hall of Fame was established to recognize women who have made profound and sustained contributions to their communities while serving as role models and advocates for the next generation.

The seven inductees were chosen from among 17 nominees put forward by members of the community and reviewed by LCWAG’s Executive Committee.

“Each of these women represents the best of Loudoun County—visionaries, advocates, and changemakers who have uplifted those around them while building stronger systems for the next generation,” Board Chair Stacey Metcalfe said. “Their collective achievements are inspiring, and it is our honor to shine a light on their stories through the Hall of Fame.”

“As we take this time to honor our inductees, share stories, and connect with one another, let us remember that we’re part of a larger movement, one that champions equality, empowerment, and the triumph of all women in our community.

This occasion holds deep significance not just for us today but for the generations to come,” said Board Secretary and Co-Chair of the Hall of Fame Committee Lorna Campbell Clarke said.

Tapper has a master’s degree in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in dance movement therapy, which she has used to bridge the worlds of mental health and expressive arts. She has directed over 25 musicals and created 30 original dance works.

Lily-Wheeler is engaged in community service through leadership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Jack and Jill of America, The Links, Incorporated, and the Twelve Days of Christmas, Loudoun Chapter. She is also a youth basketball coach, board member for National Capital Treatment & Recovery, and the author of “She Called Me Her Sweet Girl.”

Mitchell has 26 years of experience in education and previous leadership roles in Fairfax and Newport News Public Schools. She is committed to empowering women in leadership and building strong community connections.

Nadler founded Tales and Ales and has devoted her work with the Loudoun Education Foundation to uplifting other and creating opportunities for young people to thrive. She was honored in 2023 as the Loudoun Chamber’s Nonprofit Executive of the Year.

Montogomery serves on the Virginia Commission to End Hunger, the Loudoun Chamber Board, and leads the Advocacy Committee of the Loudoun Human Services Network. Under her leadership, LHR opened the Nonprofit Community Services Center and Free Food Market in 2023—creating a centralized hub for

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

The Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls on Tuesday celebrated the induction of seven community leaders to its Women’s Hall of Fame.

WOMEN'S HALL OF FAME continues on page 7

Women's Hall of Fame

continued from page 5

human services through collaboration with nonprofits and government partners.

Jones works to build bridges between survivors, community members, local leaders, and organizations to support long-term healing and empowerment. She hosts impactful training events, and creates unique community-building experiences like the Community Dessert Battle and P7 Red Affair Fashion Show.

Turner is a passionate advocate for Black women’s health and a scholar committed to advancing equity and empowerment She is a fourth-year PhD candidate in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health at Virginia Tech.

The organization also honored Mahsa Riar, who was the first youth LCWAG board member and founded the coalition’s annual Girl emPower Summit. She

Hiddenwood

continued from page 4

from allowing data centers to industrial and commercial uses, the Board of Supervisors sent the application back to the commission for review. The panel held a public hearing on the proposal in March, where one speaker opposed the application.

Project Manager Allison Brittain said several changes were made since then, including adding noise mitigation, providing a public trail head and parking spaces, limiting office use to 64,000 square feet, conforming with required buffering, providing $10,000 to nearby homes for buffering and installing an electric vehicle charging station.

However, Brittain said she did not recommend approval.

“Staff continue to find the proposed development pattern to be inconsistent with the Suburban Neighborhood Place Type [in the General Plan],” she said. “We recommend the applicant increase the distance and landscape buffering for residential uses and reduce building footprints.”

The commission was again divided on the project, voting 5-4 to recommend denial, with Chair Clifford Keirce (Sterling), Vice Chair Eric Combs (Ashburn) and commissioners Dale Polen Myers (At Large) and James Banks (Algonkian) opposed.

Commissioner Madhava Reddy Madireddy (Dulles), whose district include the project, said even with the changes and proffers made by the assemblage, the footprint was still too large and too close to the neighboring homes.

“I think it doesn’t go far enough for me to get my vote,” he said.

also served from 2018 to 2024 as chair of the youth advisory board.

The Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls was created in 2017 through the efforts of County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) after the Board of Supervisors voted down a proposal by Randall to reestablish a women’s commission. The coalition was launched as a component fund under the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Norther Fauquier Counties.

The Loudoun Women’s Hall of Fame was created by LCWAG in 2023 to celebrate women across all sectors - public service, business, arts, health, education, and more - who have shown exemplary leadership and created lasting positive change. The biennial nomination period for the Loudoun Women’s Hall of Fame is expected to return in early 2027.

To learn more about LCWAG, support future initiatives, or explore the Hall of Fame project, go to lcwag.org/hall-of-fame. n

Myers said the application is an opportunity to “right a wrong,” adding that the county government had created the problem by approving JK2, which owns the Hiddenwood Lane, a gravel road.

“We have left these people no enjoyment to their property,” she said.

Myers said prior to the 2019 General Plan, that part of Arcola was not designated as a residential area, and that the Briarfield residents had known that.

“They were buying in a non-residential area for their new home,” she said, adding that Hiddenwood predates even the construction of Dulles Airport.

“They’ve paid their dues, they’ve been patient, they’ve been respectful, they’ve waited two and a half years, and now we’re saying to them, ‘sorry, but maybe somebody might come along, five board members might buy your property someday,’” she said.

Commissioner Robin-Eve Jasper (Little River) agreed that the situation had been created by the county, but disagreed that the approving the application was the way to remedy it.

“Clearly, a problem, a serious problem, was created by the approval of JK2, and this would export that problem to Briarfield Estates and then also export it again, potentially to other properties adjacent,” she said.

Instead, she recommended that the Hiddenwood property owners pursue another path.

“I do believe that there’s a remedy at law for that, and that remedy may be for them to bring a lawsuit about inverse taking based on the county’s action that destroyed their quiet enjoyment of their property,” she said.

The application will now advance to the Board of Supervisors for a final decision. n

Leesburg After 25 Years, Construction Begins at Veterans Park

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

Town leaders on Saturday celebrated the groundbreaking of the 86-acre Veterans Park adjacent to the Ball’s Bluff Battlefield.

The town and NOVA Parks acquired 141 acres next to the Ball’s Bluff Regional Park in 2001 for $3.3 million.

The Town Council adopted the Veterans Park Master Plan in 2002 and updated that plan in 2012. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors contributed $4 million to construction in 2021.

Phase One of the project will include the construction of a two-lane, threequarter-mile access road from Ball’s Bluff Road to the river, along with parking lots, a Potomac River ramp for non-motorized watercraft, and other related improvements. The second phase, to be completed in fall 2029, will include roadway upgrades, additional parking, a picnic pavilion, and upgrades to the existing

silos and trail improvements.

Speakers during the May 10 groundbreaking ceremony included Director of Parks and Recreations Rich Williams, Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission Kirsten Shabanowitz, Mayor Kelly Burk, and Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg).

“To say this day has been years in the making is an understatement, as it’s been more like decades,” Williams said. He thanked residents in the Potomac Crossing neighborhood, which will see impacts during the construction, for their patience and understanding as the project moves along.

“We know that construction occurring in your neighborhood can be a lot to put up with, but I have no doubt this will be a wonderful amenity for our community to enjoy for generations to come,” he said.

Williams also introduced the team with project contractor Madigan Construction.

Retired District Court judge Franky Buttery, a former Leesburg councilmember, was also in attendance. Buttery was credited as being instrumental in negotiations between the town and the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority to bring Veterans Park inside the town’s corporate limits.

“In closing, I would like to thank our Potomac Crossing residents for their input and engagement throughout this project date,” Burk said. “I know it has not been easy on many of you and more inconveniences are to come with construction. But I would be remiss not to thank you for your patience and grace as we move forward with a project that will be enjoyed for generations to come.” n

Town Celebrates Entrepreneurs, Community Leaders at 2025 Business Awards

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

The town’s Department of Economic Development last week held its annual business awards, highlighting the community contributions of businesses and individuals in a variety of categories.

Brianne Grant and Cheryl Strasser of Cowbell Kitchen was presented the George C. Marshall Award, which celebrates community leaders who demonstrate exemplary commitment to the community above and beyond business contributions. Grant and Strasser were recognized not only for their popular downtown café, but also their partnership with the Love KK Foundation, which combats food insecurity by providing locally grown products to the Lucketts community food pantry.

BENEFIT took home the Arts and Cultural Award, given to a business organization or individual that contributes to or actively supports art within the town.

BENEFIT is a coalition of musicians and community leaders who use music to fundraise for charitable causes, including at the annual Crossroads Music Festival held each fall.

The Community Ambassador Award

was given to Pawsitivity Pet Services, for contributing time, talent, and resources to promote the town’s positive image.

“They contribute to a culture that elevates the community,” Mayor Kelly Burk said. “They’ve continued to grow in Leesburg and give back in meaningful and active ways, distributing their time, their

resources and energy towards bettering the lives of local residents and shelter animals with direct donations and volunteering in community-based activities.”

The New or Expanding Business Award was presented to Wonder Childhood Discovery. Burk said that the company “sprouted from the gap in our local

community for early childhood development, focused on sensory friendly activities for young families.”

The Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties took home the Nonprofit Award, which celebrates an organization that serves or benefits Leesburg residents and businesses with a direct involvement and commitment to the community.

The People’s Choice Award, selected by the public from the list of businesses nominated across all categories, was given to Wonder Childhood Discovery.

At the beginning of the ceremony, Economic Development Director Russel Seymour thanked Leesburg’s business community that makes the town “a true destination of choice.” He also noted strides within the Town, such as enveloping Microsoft’s data center campus and the rest of Compass Creek into the town and the recent hiring of the Leesburg Movement’s new executive director Erin Weston.

“In Leesburg, we have a number of things that set us apart, including our business community, but also our downtown, he said. “Leesburg is truly a place to be.” n

William Timme/Loudoun Now

A mound of dirt below the Veterans Park signifies the groundbreaking of a plan 25 years in the making.

William Timme/ Loudoun Now

The winners pose with Mayor Kelly Burk and members of the Town Council after the 2025 Business Awards ceremony.

Loudoun’s Gentleman's Ride for Men’s Health on Sunday

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

Approximately 100 motorcyclists donning three-piece suits will hit the road from Dulles to Middleburg this coming Sunday to raise money for men’s health.

Every year, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride sees thousands of motorcyclists– equipped with dapper attire and vintage bikes– raise money in over 1,000 cities and 120 countries. The national nonprofit Movember, the main beneficiary of DGR, funds research and resources for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health. The Leesburg-based ride, entering its fourth official year of DGR, has raised over $100,000 thus far.

Internationally, DGR has raised almost $60 million for men’s health, according to Leesburg DGR founder J.J. Cooney.

Cooney said the town’s annual performance is impressive despite not having city-level support.

“We finished last year in terms of money raised ... we were 16th in the United States,” he said. “Out of all the big NFL

cities, we were 16, and then internationally we were 36.”

Cooney said one of Movember’s founders, UK-based Sarah Coghlan, attended Leesburg’s 2023 Movember and said it rivaled larger cities. DGR’s founders told her to attend Leesburg instead of DC that year, he said.

This year so far, Leesburg DGR has raised $27,278 of its $50,000 goal.

The ride starts at 11 a.m. May 17 at Motorcycles of Dulles, traveling through Ashburn, regrouping for a staging at Ida Lee Park before rumbling through Leesburg’s historic district on King Street. The ride ends with a staging at Lost Barrel near Middleburg around noon. Lost Barrel, a sponsor, will host Sunday Funday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. – donating 10% of food sales to DGR.

DGR was founded by four Australian men with a shared love of vintage motorcycles, like those sold by Triumph Motorcycles, DGR’s biggest sponsor.

“The distinguished piece of it started

GENTLEMAN'S RIDE

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Law Enforcement Discusses Trends, Resources at Retail Theft Forum

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

The Leesburg Police Department Tuesday, in partnership with Target and the Loudoun County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, held forum with town retailers to discuss strategies to spot organized theft, resources to counteract it, and how to best partner with law enforcement.

Sgt. Justin Schumer and Detective Mirza Kadric spotlighted retail theft trends while Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Matthew Lowery explained legal considerations and ways businesses can help support successful prosecutions.

Kadric said the Town of Leesburg saw 446 theft-related incidents last year, amounting to approximately $288,000 worth of stolen goods. The Leesburg Premium Outlets accounted for $138,000 of that total.

Kadric gave three examples of organized “professional” theft. One involved the recent sentencing of Ilie Anisoara and Loredana Sardaru in connection with a series of thefts at the outlet mall, a case he used to explain a broader trend across the United States.

Sardaru and Anisoara were found with $4,600 worth of stolen merchandise, but collectively carried around $419,000 worth of merchandise stolen from stores around the United States, he said. The two used a “magic skirt” to conceal shoplifted items.

Kadric said these types of thefts represent something different than crimes of opportunity.

“These are people that drive all over the U.S. They pick their routes out days in advance,” he said. “They get their partners. They know where they’re going to sell this stuff afterwards.”

Schumer said Sardaru and Anisoara used children to hide items in their vehicles.

Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Matthew Lowery showed a video to represent what organized theft can look like. In the

video, three masked shoplifters swept items off the shelves at a Target store and into a large bin crammed into a shopping cart. Schumer noted that while two of the shoplifters stole items, one was on lookout duty.

Lowery said that while these videos are useful in court, store witnesses from retail thefts are crucial.

“The court process requires things like authentication of evidence and identification of evidence,” he said. “We need those witnesses in order to be able to make them. Very often in cases people plead guilty, but it’s only because we are able to deliver on the threat that: hey, you’re going to get found guilty no matter what. For that to work, we need witnesses.”

Several speakers, including Police Chief Thea Pirnat, stressed the importance of reporting retail theft crimes quickly. Schumer said that when a crime is reported quickly, officers can check the immediate area near the site, and potentially recover the items.

Director of Organized Retail Crime Outreach for the Virginia Office of the Attorney General Judi Lynch also spoke at the event. She discussed the state’s initiatives to support retail businesses. Vortex, an information sharing tool and interactive database, aids stores with crime prevention. Retailers can upload pictures, synopses, vehicles, anything shareable to law enforcement. Stores may apply to Vortex on treuth.com/signup/retail.

Lynch made the point that “mom and pop” stores can also benefit from Vortex’s database. The system can provide the number of alerts, suspects, number make and model of vehicles used to carry away stolen items, and the total reported losses of each individual theft.

Auror, was another resource mentioned during the forum. Similarly to Vortex, law enforcement gets updates and leads from Auror. Store owners can find information on this at auror.co.

For more information on retail theft, visit the Leesburg Police Department’s Facebook page. n

William Timme/ Loudoun Now

A group of presenters from the Leesburg Police Department, the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, and the Virginia Attorney General’s Office spoke at the second Leesburg retail theft forum on Tuesday, May 13.

Gentleman's Ride

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with, if you’re familiar with the show Mad Men, Don Draper in a nice suit sitting on a Triumph Bonneville motorcycle,” Cooney said, referencing a photo of the Mad Men protagonist. Cooney said the motivation behind DGR was twofold: change the stigma of motorcycling and raise money for an important, potentially under-focused cause.

“If you think of the stigma of motorcycling, motorcyclists, it’s not exactly seen in the greatest, best light for the most part,” Cooney said. He said the Don Draper-inspired attire goes against what people generally see motorcyclists wearing for a more “distinguished” look. He added that the group wouldn’t turn any riders away who didn’t own the specific style of vintage motorcycle that inspired the movement.

Cooney and his friend Reda Ouchna started Leesburg’s first DGR recognized event in 2021 but held their own 15 rider event in 2020. That coalition grew to 175 riders in 2024, with Cooney and Ouchna having to cap the number of riders because of limited police escort availability.

The highest fundraising rider internationally is given a Triumph motorcycle, and the Leesburg event offers awards for riders including best bike, best dressed

male, best dressed female, and gift cards from local restaurants and breweries.

Local sponsors of the event include Shoe’s Cup and Cork, Fast Signs, Studio

One, Blend Coffee and Bar, Ridgeback Rides, Lark Brewing Company, Tilley’s Pet Supplies, LoCo Moto Company, Motorcycles of Dulles and Lost Barrel Brewing.

LoCo Moto, started last year by Cooney and Ouchna, is an organization focused on men’s health and men’s mental health, aiming to create community and let men know “it’s OK to not be OK,” Cooney said. He said that men on average die five to seven years earlier than women, a statistic supported by various studies.

“I think a lot of it [death] is preventable. I think as men in society, we’re supposed to man up right?” Cooney said. “We’re not going to the doctor, whether it’s mental or physical.”

Cooney said he was initially afraid of alienating women, but added that women have broadly been in support of the effort because “if the men in their lives aren’t good, they’re not going to be the best father they can be, the best husband they can be, the best coworker, or the best friend.”

DGR Leesburg encourages people to watch the riders on Sunday and donate on DGR Leesburg’s web page, or join the riders at Lost Barrel during Sunday Funday hours. n

Leesburg DGR/ LoCo Moto

Leesburg’s Distinguished Gentleman’s ride last year saw 175 riders hit the road for men’s health.

Education

Brambleton Middle School Hosts A Week of Play

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Students at Brambleton Middle School last week stepped away from their end-ofyear Standards of Learning tests to exercise and move their bodies in competitive and recreational ways through a Week of Play hosted by Loudoun County Public Schools.

The effort was largely organized by school principal Bob Marple and Rob Wilkins of the National Fitness Foundation. The event took place May 5-8 and Monday, May 12 after rain canceled the event’s final day, originally planned for last Friday.

“We’ve talked a lot with our students throughout the course of this year about the importance of staying active, being involved, and making good, healthy lifestyle choices and finding activities that are fun. So, it’s sort of a blend of fitness, movement, and activity,” Marple said.

More than 1,200 students had the opportunity to play lacrosse, football, basketball, volleyball, cornhole, cricket, track and field and spike ball as well as partake in yoga and meditation classes.

Wilkins said his family had an idea for a day of play after watching the Olympics and seeing how much joy activity brought to people.

“We thought, ‘what can we do here in Loudoun County to make this happen?

So, we came up with an idea,” he said.

The school administration approved the idea and expanded it to a full week.

Wilkins said the event will help expose the middle schoolers to more activities and support student health and wellness.

“Right now, our country is faced with an epidemic of obesity, so we would like Loudoun County to be the leader in providing exercise and commitment and resources to help our kids take care of

their health. Healthier kids do better in school. They do better in life. They have a longer health span, better lifespan. They do well with social connections,” he said.

The Week of Play is also designed to help form stronger connections between the students and relieve stress.

“There’s so much stress and anxiety

WEEK OF PLAY

continues on page 13

Generative AI Policy For Schools Moves to Full Board

BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org

Loudoun County Public Schools’ proposed policy governing the use of generative artificial intelligence passed out of committee last week and is headed to the full School Board, with some changes based on parent feedback.

The policy, to be reviewed annually to keep up with the changing landscape, covers accepted uses and protections for both students and teachers. The policy states that only division-approved AI programs would be permitted for use. Students use of AI would require expressed approval from instructors. The policy

is planned to be incorporated into the academic integrity section of the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.

It also has two accompanying regulations. The first covers how teachers and students will use AI on assignments, how they will cite AI material and how they will disclose the use of AI. The second policy governs privacy protections when using AI.

The regulations came directly from resources for teachers in the Generative AI guide created by the school division.

The main change to the draft policy came from feedback from the Special Education Advisory Committee.

This added a specific prohibition against using only generative AI to create lesson plans, Individualized Education Programs, placement decisions and grading.

According to Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Neil Slevin on May 7, the goal is to ensure that AI generated materials are at least read by a human.

Teacher Andrea Weiskopf supported the changes and warned that students will try to get around it. Concerns Slevin said have been raised by many parents.

“It is obvious that no one here has ever been gaslit by a student pretending that they didn’t use AI,” she said. “Students need specific guidance

12 Students Earn Merit Scholarships

Twelve out of 2,500 winners nationwide of the 70th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program are Loudoun students, receiving $2,500 each for their future academic endeavors at accredited universities. There were 63 winners total in Virginia. The Loudoun winners are:

Aditya Bansal of Lightridge High School

Avni Garg of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Ian C. Park of BASIS Independent Mclean

Samvrit V. Rao of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Naeva B. Shah of Independence High School

Ria Singh of Stone Bridge High School

Callia Q. Sun of Riverside High School

Aakash N. Maskeri  of Lightridge High School

Ray Y. Zhang of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

on when to use it. The policy, I believe, just says that they could use it for learning and creativity, but they need to be told to do it only under teacher supervision.”

Weiskopf and parent feedback raised concerns about the lack of a clear direction for transparency on the student end on the use of AI in their work.

In response to this, Committee Chair Lauren Shernoff (Leesburg) won support for an amendment that requires students to state how and why they used AI in their assignment.

Sending the policy to the full board passed 2-0-1, with Sumera Rashid (Little River) absent for the vote. n

Lucas A. Pham of Riverside High School

Lamees Alkarmi of Dominion High School

Suchir Godavarthi of John Champe High School

Winners were selected by committees made of school counselors and college admissions officers. Applicants were chosen based on information on their application as well as skills and accomplishments. The scholarships are sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s own funds. Winners per state are calculated based on total number of graduating seniors in the state. n

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now Students play wiffle ball at Brambleton Middle School on Monday during the last day of Loudoun County Public Schools Week of Play.

Claude Moore Grants $2.5M To Virginia Schools, Healthcare

The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation has awarded $2,474,392 in grants to 18 Virginia healthcare education programs through its 2025 Claude Moore Scholars Program. The grants include $218,775 to the Loudoun Education Foundation and Loudoun County Public Schools.

Since its inception in 2007, more than 35,850 students have participated in the Claude Moore Scholars Program.

The program is designed to help address the commonwealth’s critical healthcare workforce shortage areas by introducing students to career opportunities and equipping them to fill high-demand positions. The program supports primarily high school training along with community college-based training that enables students to pursue a wide range of healthcare careers. Students can earn industry-recognized licensures, certifications, and credentials in nursing, pharmacy technology, dental care, emergency medical services, radiology and imaging, and mental health support.

The program is part of the Health Sciences Highway concept developed by the foundation to serve as a model of lifelong learning that helps students advance from entry-level roles to higher-level healthcare careers through ongoing education and training.

The grants support the purchase of equipment, instructional materials, and the hiring of teachers.

The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation funds the Scholars Program, while Claude Moore Opportunities administers the program and works closely with grantees to ensure their success.

“Our goal is to work with school systems to create clear pathways into the healthcare field providing students with the education and certifications they need to secure good jobs,” Dr. William Hazel, Jr., CEO of Claude Moore Opportunities, stated. “Students who participate in a Scholars Program can build on that foundation by continuing their education and training throughout their lives.”

“On the Health Sciences Highway, there is no limit to what a Scholars program participant can do. They can further their careers, gain additional skills, expand knowledge and stay in a fulfilling career for the rest of their lives – hopefully here in Virginia,” he said.

In addition to supporting programs at Loudoun schools, grants were awarded to:

Ballad Health Foundation –

$120,000

Bell Foundation for Manassas Park City Schools – $140,000

Blue Ridge Partnership for Health Science Careers – $236,805

Educate Fairfax/Fairfax County Public Schools – $200,000

Germanna Community College –

$10,000

Grayson County Public Schools –

$80,000

Halifax County Public Schools

Foundation – $150,000

Hampton Roads Workforce Board –$200,000

Henrico County Public Schools Foundation – $150,000

Laurel Ridge Community College Foundation – $101, 530

Petersburg City Public Schools/ United Way – $150,000

Prince William County Education Foundation/Prince William County Public Schools – $168,715

Rappahannock Community College – $42,338

Richmond Education Foundation/ Richmond City Public Schools –$150,000

Stafford Education Foundation/ Stafford County Public Schools –

$82,660

UVA Foundation/Culpeper County

Public Schools and Western Prince William County Public Schools –$200,000

Winchester Education Foundation/ Winchester City Schools – $73,565 n

Founded in 1987, the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation supports charitable and educational initiatives across Virginia. Learn more at claudemoorefoundation.org.

Week of Play

continued from page 12

that they’re under, that anything we can do to alleviate that and let them know that there are people who care about them is important. By putting this day together, it’s our demonstration that you can have fun by getting together, playing sports, being competitive, but it’s for all abilities,” Wilkins said. “… Physical activity and mental health go hand in hand. When you move your body, you just feel better. It helps figure out some of the stress, but it also lowers your carbon, your cortisol and lowers your blood pressure.”

Marple said he agrees that encouraging the kids to be active can help offset the stress of being a middle schooler.

“These students, the academic rigor that they face every day in the classroom is intense, far more intense than what I remember as a student and they need the opportunity to unwind, to connect and to get outside,” he said.

Student Charlize Dormont said the break is especially welcome as students take their standard of learning, end of the year assessments.

“I feel like this was a really good idea to have it now. That way students could destress a little bit, play some games with

their friends, which they may not have as much time to spend with, which is really cool,” she said.

Brambleton Middle eighth-grader Nikash Pawar said the number of options available throughout the week was something he and his fellow students enjoyed about the experience.

“I think our counselors and school staff have done a very good job about providing more activities. It’s another thing to get students interested in activities, but I think they’ve been good about having a large variety. So they have sports, they have walk through the park, they have meditation. They brought a therapy dog to our school and a lot of students really liked that,” he said.

Students looking to play sports at Independence High School next year also had the opportunity to hear from the school’s coaches and form connections ahead of the fall tryouts.

“It’s always nice to get out of the building and have conversations and interact with the kids, not in a professional kind of sense,” Independence High Athletic Director Ryan Rogers said.

Students also received a special treat from three Kona Ice Trucks through a partnership with South Riding franchisee Dean Moore. n

Tip Top Tap Truck Partners with Inova Loudoun Hospital for National Nurses Week

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

In the middle of National Nurses Week, Inova Loudoun Hospital workers received a special treat through a partnership between the organization and the locally owned Tip Top Tap Truck.

Nurses on afternoon and evening shifts May 7 received tulip bouquets, a draft nonalcoholic beverage and a hand-poured candle from the Aldie based mobile truck business.

Owned by Michael Stump and his sister, Melissa Watson, Tip Top Tap Truck served an expected 400 nurses through the efforts of Dr. Kevin O’Connor who has sponsored the event for two years in a row.

“It was just to do something different than a gift card for the nurses,” Stump said. “Traditionally, they got gift cards here, so we just wanted to kind of elevate the experience, give them a unique experience, and

have something else than a gift card. And flowers always cheer everyone up.”

The day’s drink offerings included local-

ly roasted “Code Brew” coffee with varying flavor options and a cucumber spritzer named the “Nurses Order.”

Interim Chief Nursing Officer Joy Lucas said the event was made possible through O’Connor’s generosity.

“It is absolutely a huge hit for the nurses. They feel so special. They’re thrilled,” she said.

Lucas, who has been a nurse for 43 years, praised her team for their continued dedication.

“We absolutely have the most incredible nurses here, they’re so dedicated and so passionate about what they do every day,” she said.

Tip Top Tap Truck serves private events throughout Loudoun and Stump said he’s focused on tap beverages rather than providing a full-service bar.

“We can put anything on tap, from beer to cocktails to coffee to water. So, it just makes it a lot more efficient,” he said.

Learn more at tiptoptaptruck.com. n

The Immigrant Giving Circle is a donor giving circle of individuals, businesses, and families in Loudoun working together to pool gifts and offer grants to local nonprofits focused on health, education, and economic security in our community - with a goal of Democratizing Giving, Prioritizing Immigrants.

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Dr. Kevin O’Connor stands with nurses at Inova Loudoun Hospital during a flower and beverage giveaway that he sponsored for National Nurses Week.

Charles Town Family Dentistry

Welcomes

Dr. Sean Grady, DDS

Charles Town Family Dentistry is thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Sean Grady, DDS, to our dental professional team. The brand-new office will be opening in May 2025 and is ready to serve the community by building exceptional patient relationships and providing top quality care to create your perfect smile. Dr Grady is pleased to be offering his services in a comfortable and modern setting.

Dr Grady has over 30 years of experience in a wide range of family dentistry, complex smile makeovers, and Invisalign. Dr. Grady offers expert treatment to restore your smile to its natural beauty. For those requiring more advanced options, the practice also provides dental implants and dentures to help you achieve optimal oral health and appearance. For those wanting cosmetic options or smile enhancement, the practice will be offering veneers and whitening too.

The office is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a digital lab that enables same-day treatment options, so patients can get the care they need without the hassle of multiple visits. This modern facility is designed with patient comfort in mind, offering a relaxing and welcoming environment for all ages.

Charles Town Family Dentistry is now accepting appointments, and Dr. Grady and the entire team are eager to serve the community with top-quality dental care. Don’t wait—schedule your appointment today! 681-777-6453 or schedule online at charlestownfamilydentistry.com.

681-777-6453 I 860 Somerset Blvd, Charles Town, WV 25414 charlestownfamilydentistry.com.

Visit Loudoun Grant Program Supports Sports Tournaments

Visit Loudoun is accepting applications through May 23 for its fiscal year 2026 Sports Tournament Grant Reimbursement Program, which offers a total of $100,000 to eligible organizations hosting sporting events in Loudoun.

This program extends the reach of the industry and is designed to support bids on sports tournaments. It is open to parks and recreation departments as well as sports organizations that can promote and host tournaments in Loudoun County after July 1. Through the competitive application process Visit Loudoun will provide funding for tournaments that have the greatest

return on investment in terms of visitor spending.

Applications will be reviewed by a volunteer committee and final selections approved by Visit Loudoun Board of Directors.

Applications are due May 23. Additional details about the program and the application are available on Visit Loudoun’s industry page: visitloudoun. org/industry/visit-loudoun-grant-opportunities/sports-grant-program.

For more information, email Visit Loudoun Director of Sales, Sports and Services Torye Hurst at hurst@visitloudoun.org . n

Nonprofits

McLaurin, Mobile Hope Help Local Youth with Job Readiness

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin’s Full Circle Jobs program launched last week with the intent to help more than 200 local youth with job readiness skills.

The program, a partnership between the Terry McLaurin Foundation and Mobile Hope, aims to equip youth with the technical and soft skills and other essential preparations necessary for the workforce. Mobile Hope works to feed, house, clothe, and provide mental health support for homeless and at risk-youth up to the age of 24.

“We’re able to provide a program that will be able to help these young people as they take the next steps in their lives,” McLaurin said. “Whether it’s getting haircuts and clothes and the grooming things that make you feel good when you go into a job interview, whether it’s the life skills or the mentorship that allows you to bring up the positive things you may bring to an organization or a job.”

Mobile Hope CEO and founder Donna Fortier said the nonprofit started around 15 years ago because there weren’t any programs around dedicated to homeless kids.

“We felt it was our duty,” she said. Fortier said it is transformational for

youth to see McLaurin as a star on the football field while being encouraging to them in person.

“It’s amazing to see how far he’s come and everything,” Mobile Hope youth program alumni Josue Arias said, adding that McLaurin has had a large impact on him.

Arias recalled how Mobile Hope gave him a chance to finish high school after he was arrested and incarcerated. He met McLaurin in November and did a video featuring McLaurin helping him pick out professional-looking clothes as well as get

a haircut.

He also spoke highly of Mobile Hope.

“I lost both of my parents, and coming here every day, volunteering, makes it feel like home,” Arias said.

McLaurin said he wants to give his time to the community, taking part in speed mentorships. Google and Nace Law Group have also aided in the effort.

“I’m so impressed by [Mobile Hope], by the facility, and just by this,” Managing Member of Nace Law Group Chris Nace said. “There was one word that I just

wanted to kind of leave with you, and I hope you think about it, and that word is resilience.”

Several involved in the program heavily emphasized resilience as a key character of both the youth in Mobile Hope programs and the lessons imparted by the nonprofit.

Arias said “never give up,” was one of the most important lessons he had learned from McLaurin.

“I really wanted to provide a program that provided kids the opportunity, no matter where they come from, where their background is, what they’ve been through, an opportunity to be able to have the resources possible to step into the workforce and take their next steps in life,” McLaurin said.

“I think we all remember being a young person at one time and how anxious we could possibly be going into the next stage of our life. …You know, kids who go through Mobile Hope have been homeless, who have been at risk and things like that, a lot of the things that they’ve been through have been out of their control and they just need someone to come alongside them. … A guy like Josue who’s been through so many different adversities in his life but still comes out smiling, I think it’s a testament not only to who he is but what Mobile Hope does.”

Learn more at mobile-hope.org. n

Arsenal Partners with Loudoun Soccer to Grow Sport

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

Loudoun Soccer and the Northern Virginia Alliance are teaming up with London-based Premier League Club Arsenal – a relationship that Loudoun Soccer CEO Mark Ryan said comes with ample opportunities.

“As we learn from Arsenal, we’ll be able to reflect that on the field,” Ryan said. “They’ll see it in the apparel, and the things that they wear. There’ll be some Arsenal branding on some of those things. There’s an opportunity for international travel, where we can take some of our players and teams overseas and experience Arsenal Football Club at the youth level and also the professional level.”

Loudoun’s youth players will also have a chance to see those the pros from Arsenal as the team tours the U.S.

Ryan said that he hopes to develop

Arsenal Football Club fans out of Loudoun Soccer memberships, including the professional men’s and women’s teams. The move aligns with Loudoun Soccer’s goal

of growing the culture of soccer.

“Soccer is a global sport,” Ryan said. “Having people attach themselves to an international team and want to support that team and follow that team as well as going to watch DC United and Loudoun United and Washington Spirit– that just adds to the love of the game.”

Arsenal has partnered with one other American club in a similar fashion, United Futbol Academy in Georgia.

A reflection of values and, “liking what they see,” was a big part of Arsenal’s decision to pair with the Loudoun club, Ryan said.

“It’s not just what happens on the soccer field. It’s what happens off the soccer field. How do you develop young boys and girls into not just good soccer players, but good people, as well,” he said.

Loudoun Soccer is a nonprofit club with around 9,000 players and 1,500 to 1,600 travel and elite players, according to Ryan. It offers all levels of play, from

the youngest to an adult league in the evenings.

The club recently announced a partnership with Club Deportivo in Sterling, bringing some of their coaching expertise and resources to help make the game more accessible to kids. That includes after school free soccer programs and player development opportunities.

Ryan said any way for Loudoun Soccer to assist Deportivo with breaking down financial barriers and transportation barriers is another opportunity to bring a player access to “something really special.”

He added that while Loudoun Soccer has had players advance to the pros, the goal is to provide players with good experiences and life lessons.

“Our mission statement is that we’re developing champions for life, and that is on the field and off the field,” Ryan said.

Learn more about Loudoun Soccer at loudounsoccer.com. n

Courtesy of Loudoun Soccer Girls Director of Coaching at Loudoun Soccer

Nicole Bower poses with an Arsenal Jersey signed by Arsenal Football Club professional player and Loudoun Native Emily Fox.

William Timme/ Loudoun Now

Terry McLaurin, Chris Nace, Josue Arias, and others with Mobile Hope pose together after announcing the launch of Terry McLaurin's Full Circle Jobs Program.

Towns

Residents Review Conceptual Rural Road Improvements in Expanded Rt. 9 Safety Study

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Concept plans for improvements along Woodgrove Road, Cider Mill Road and Stoney Point Road were presented to the community for feedback during a May 7 public input session.

The work is part of an earlier study of safety improvements needed on Rt. 9 and looks to determine where they need to prepare the roadways for expected increases in traffic in the corridor.

Project Representative Michelle Cavucci said making the improvements requires balance because if not done properly, they could encourage more traffic and higher speeds.

“We’re really concerned about speed management, and we’re thinking about the rural context, and we’re thinking about adjacent properties. We don’t want the improvements necessarily to be, construct a brand new road to standard, right?”

During the meeting, residents who live along the road expressed frustration over the quantity of commuter vehicles that travel along the roads, often from West Virginia, and how fast they are traveling.

“Every time you’ve improved the roads a little bit, the speed limit gets a little bit faster, and the people still go a little bit faster and those are things that we’ve

Community members discuss concept plans for improvements along Woodgrove Road, Cider Mill Road and Stoney Point Road during a public meeting May 7.

really wanted to avoid,” Kelly Foltman said.

“I have to pull out onto Woodgrove all the time, a lot of times with my truck and trailer, and seeing this increase in traffic makes it very difficult to get out there. It’s a 36foot trailer, plus my truck and that’s, that’s not a fun thing to try to do when people are going eight to 14 miles per hour over

what is supposed to be happening.”

Data from Cavucci showed that 85% of drivers along Stoney Point Road travel 4 to 7 miles over the speed limit, while Woodgrove Road drivers travel at 8 to

RT. 9 IMPROVEMENTS continues on page 19

County Considers Study of Town Utility Systems

BY NORMAN K. STYER AND HANNA PAMPALONI nstyer@loudounnow.org

hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The Purcellville Town Council’s struggle with increasing costs of its utility system has renewed consideration of creating a regional infrastructure project servicing towns in the western Rt. 7 corridor.

While Purcellville representatives have expressed interest in the deal, leaders in Hamilton and Round Hill have raised concerns.

The latest conversation launched after Tony Buffington, a former county supervisor and member of the Loudoun Water board of directors, suggested during an April 22 council meeting the possibility

that the county’s water and sewer authority could take over Purcellville’s system and offer residents the same utility rates paid by Loudoun Water’s eastern Loudoun customers—rates substantially lower than are required in Purcellville.

The four-member majority on Purcellville’s seven-member council pledged during their campaigns to lower utility rates even in the face of increasing operational costs and maintenance needs and higher debt payment obligations. Those members, now subject to a recall petition by town voters, most recently proposed eliminating the town’s Police Department as one measure to stem utility rate increases.

In the weeks after Buffington’s suggestion, representatives from the county

AROUND towns

LOVETTSVILLE

Mayfest Returns Saturday

The town’s annual Mayfest celebration is returning this year, after being cancelled in 2024 becase of inclement weather.

Kicking off at 10 a.m. on the Town Green with remarks by Mayor Christopher Hornbaker, community members will have a chance to explore the offerings from over 40 vendors showcasing crafts, food and more. Lawn games, crafts, a gaga ball pit, an inflatable slide and live music will be available all day.

At 10:30 a.m. the kids threelegged, sack and egg spoon races will begin. That will be followed at noon by a cake walk, an obstacle course and tug-of-war. At 1 p.m. the kids pie eating contest will take place and at 2 p.m. corn hole competitions will begin. A second cake walk will be held at 3 p.m. and be followed by a 4 p.m. adult pie eating contest. The final event of the day will be the adults three-legged, sack and egg spoon races will kick off at 4:30 p.m.

PURCELLVILLE

Town Ranked Second Safest in State

Purcellville has been named the second safest town in Virginia by SafeWise – an organization that provides information, reviews, and resources related to home and community safety.

The town fell a slot from last year’s designation as the safest town. It is now behind Bridgewater, located just south of Harrisonburg.

government and Loudoun Water have reached out municipal leaders in Hamilton, Purcellville, and Round Hill to gage interest in a plan take over their municipal utilities and possibly to link the towns in a regional system.

Supervisor Caleb A. Kershner (R-Catoctin), whose district includes the three towns, said this is an idea he has been talking about for a few years.

He said because Purcellville councilmembers have expressed interest in the possibility, the county has begun looking into the feasibility of Buffington’s proposal.

“Obviously, the towns would need to agree to it,” Kershner said. “We’re TOWN UTILITIES continues on page 20

Based on the latest FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System, the town’s crime data is categorized into two broad categories – violent crime and property crime. The FBI compiles violent crimes from four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Violent crimes under the NIBRS program are offenses that involve force or threat of force. Property crime included the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.

According to the Police Department, the town’s crime rate is 0.3 per 1,000 residents for violent crimes,

AROUND TOWNS continues on page 20

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now

Town Utilities

continued from page 18

spending a fair amount on water infrastructure for towns each year, but it’s very important that the people would need to choose it.”

Kershner said the proposal could decrease water rates for town residents but that there is still a lot of details to work out.

While a formal feasibility study has not been endorsed, Kershner said the county is looking into it.

“Purcellville has expressed interest, and we are accommodating that where we can. I don’t know if long term, we ended up doing that, if it makes sense for other surrounding towns,” Kershner said.

If surrounding towns such as Hamilton and Round Hill are interested, Kershner said the county would be happy to discuss it with them.

“This is about better government. If it doesn’t make sense than it doesn’t make sense,” Kershner said, adding that it was at least worth looking into.

Round Hill Mayor Scott Ramsey briefed his Town Council on the project during its May 7 meeting.

He said the town had been contacted by the county staff asking if it was interested in participating in a study of Loudoun

Water taking over or managing the town’s utility system as part of a larger project beyond Purcellville alone.

Ramsey said his initial response was that the town would want to be involved if a study moves forward—to be at the table and voice its concerns and interests. However, he said the implications to the development policies in the town and county’s comprehensive plans and the impact in western Loudoun should be carefully considered.

“I think we’d want to understand the parameters of it before we committed too much further, because we don’t want to be associated on this clearly heading in the wrong direction,” Ramsey said.

Round Hill is unique among Loudoun’s towns in that the vast majority of its utility customers are outside the town boundaries in developments approved by the county government in the 1990s. In recent years, the town has been looking to the county to help pay for some of its utility system needs to serve those residents, most recently landing a $3.7 million contribution to help build a new water tank.

“It’s nothing that we’re looking for,” Ramsey said of the possibility of Loudoun Water involvement. “Mainly, I just want to make sure that if something is going to happen that we have a chance to hear about it before it happens and to comment on it. I would not want to see the county and

Purcellville strike a deal to do something that might impact Round Hill without Round Hill actually being at the table.”

During the Hamilton Town Council’s meeting Monday night, none of the members expressed interest in moving forward with a feasibility study.

“I have two questions,” Councilmember Cathy Salter said. “One, who creates the matrix for the feasibility study. What is going to be studied? And two, who’s going to fund it?”

“I feel, personally, that we have too much time, money and resources tied up in our own system that we don’t necessarily need Loudoun Water to come in,” Mayor Ken Wine said.

Councilmember Craig Green said he felt the town’s system is working well as it is.

Loudoun Water has operated some of the county’s municipal systems in the past. However, that was done as a hired contractor with the towns being charged for the cost of the operations and maintenance. The towns eventually found cost savings by bringing the operations in house or using private contractors. More recently, the authority has shifted its stance has offered its small-system users the same rate charged to those in its large eastern Loudoun service area, an approach which might offer cost savings to users. n

Around Towns

continued from page 18

and 6.0 for property crime, which decreased from .04 VC and 6.2 PC from the previous year.

“The ‘safest’ cities rankings are intended to highlight cities with low crime rates and ignite conversation and action around making all communities safer. With Purcellville ranking in the top two spots last year and this year, it exemplifies the dedication of our officers working together with community members to continue to build trust and strengthen relationships to help make safety a priority for us all,” town Interim Police Chief Sara Lombraña stated in an announcement.

Applications Open for July 4 Parade

Applications have opened to participate in the town’s Independence Day Parade.

Participants may submit application until June 23, however the list is first come, first served and once full, a waitlist application will be posted on the event website. The theme of this year’s celebration is Let Freedom Ring and parade participants are encouraged to decorate their floats and dress accordingly.

Apply online at tinyurl.com/yh7f9sh4. n

LIVE MUSIC

TEJAS SINGH

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankypub.com

CHRIS COMPTON

4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 16

Three Creeks Winery, 18548 Harmony Church Road, Hamilton. 3creekswinery.com

CARY WIMBISH

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

SHANE GAMBLE

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16 Quattro Goombas, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie quattrogoombas.com

GARY PALUMBO

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16

Vanish Farmwoods Brewing, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com

ELIJAH GREELEY

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com

ANTHONY TAYLOR

5 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 16 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

HOPELESS SEMANTICS

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16

Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. twotwistedposts.com

MARK CULLINANE

6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 16

Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com

MELANIE PEARL

6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 16 Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com

TEJAS SINGH

7 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 16

Social House Kitchen & Tap, 42841 Creek View Plaza, Ashburn. socialhouseva.com

LIVE MUSIC continues on page 23

Pickwick Players Celebrate 20 Years of Community Performances

BY KATIANA DAWN

This weekend, Pickwick Players opens its 20th season in Loudoun with “Once Upon A Mattress,” a recently revived Broadway musical featuring Sutton Foster that takes a comedic and family-friendly approach on the telling of the classic fairytale “Princess and the Pea.” As a local favorite, the theater group celebrates two decades of fun-filled and driven work.

Reflecting upon the years, Michele Reynolds recalled that when she and two colleagues founded Pickwick Players there was a serious need for the kind of shows they could offer the community. Their first show, “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” premiered spring of 2005 with rewarding success. “Turnout was incredible, not only for the casting, but also for the performance. So, it felt like people really needed this,” Reynolds said.

Since then, the group has committed to putting on two shows a year along with hosting summer drama camps for kids, a singing ensemble and various workshop events.

The nonprofit functions with a board of 10 members who all participate in some way–not necessarily through acting–with at least one of the shows each year. The creation of these performances involves intricate teamwork and comradery. Or in the words of Reynolds, “it’s just always a community effort, a community, community, community effort. It takes everyone.”

“We have met so many wonderful people. We really have a good time together. And it’s been a real sort of team effort that takes every little cog doing their part to really have quality,” she said.

Over the years the group has evolved to best fit the actors and community, yet within those changes the core values have remained steadfast. The Pickwick Players are committed to creating a family-friendly environment from the start of the season with casting, through to the end of shows and all the rehearsals in between.

This commitment creates a nurturing and connected environment, evident even the shortest of sneak peeks inside the group’s rehearsal time.

“I think the part that keeps people coming back is the process. If it’s positive, and if the cast members support and encourage one another—which I love to see happen and it does most of the time— then people have a positive experience.”

Reynolds emphasized that with an understanding and empathy of the various experiences the members bring with them into the space. Once they enter rehearsal space these former strangers become a family of sorts and together reach new creative heights.

“I always tell them, yeah, it’s great to have a great show to give, but more important is the process that we go through and how we interact with each other and build together,” Reynolds said.

Another aspect that retains its integrity over time is the dedication Reynolds holds to bringing roles for children into performances. All shows are tweaked to ensure that children have opportunities to participate and grow their individual acting experience. This can be complicated and could easily be pushed to the side, yet Reynolds insists they include these roles “somehow, because we want to be across the spectrum. It’s very important.”

The results of this cultivated process bring about a gift of sorts that the group then shares with the community.

“As far as the cast and the people involved, I always say they’re great. It’s so motivating to be able to give this gift we

prepared to the community. And we set it out there, and we just want it to be as lovely and fun and entertaining as we can make it.”

“Once Upon a Mattress” promises to fill that bill. “It is just so funny. It’s really funny,” Reynolds said.

Actor and musical director Gary Sheppard noted that the finale was his favorite of the show, however he refused to spoil this ending.

Six performances are planned over the next two weekends, May 16-17 and May 23-24. Shows will be held at the Capital Community Church, 20430 Ashburn Village Blvd. in Ashburn. Presale discounted tickets are available at thepickwickplayers.com.

In celebration of 20 years of Pickwick Players productions, this season will be slightly altered. Upcoming this fall, rather than bringing an entirely new show to Loudoun, the troupe will be reaching into its history to highlight favorite snippets and scenes for a 20-year review performance. This show will include reaching out to members of the group who have moved on to other of life’s many adventures and entreating them to wick one final scene with Pickwick Players. n

Katiana Dawn/Loudoun Now

Four of the Pickwick Players pose in costume.

GET OUT

LIVE MUSIC

continued from page 23

Hillsboro. harvestgap.com

RYAN HOLLANDER

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com

COLE DOUGLAS

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18

Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com

MELANIE PEARL

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com

DAN CRONIN

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18

868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. 868estatevineyards.com

JASON MASI

6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 21

The Lost Fox, 20374 Exchange St., Ashburn. lostfoxhideaway.com

BLUEGRASS JAM

6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 Hope Flower Farm & Winery, 40905 Stumptown

Road, Waterford. hopeflowerfarm.com

JUSTIN SUEDE

6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 22

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

HAPPENINGS

STORYTIME ON THE FARM

2 to 2:45 p.m. Thursday, May 15

2 to 2:45 p.m. Thursday, May 22

Temple Hall Farm Regional Park, 15855 Limestone School Road, Leesburg. novaparks.org

STATE OF THE COUNTY ADDRESS

6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15

Loudoun County Government Center, 1 Harrison St. SE., Leesburg. loudoun.gov

PLANT-A-THON

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, May 16

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17

JK Community Farm, 35516 Paxson Road, Purcellville. $20. jkcommunityfarm.org

ONCE UPON A MATTRESS,

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, May 16

1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 17

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Capital Community Church, 20430 Ashburn Village Blvd., Ashburn. $21. thepickwickplayers.com

RUMMAGE SALE

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Aldie United Methodist Church, 39325 Little River Turnpike, Aldie. aldieumc.org

LEESBURG FARMERS MARKET

8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 17

Virginia Village, 30 Catoctin Circle SE., Leesburg. loudounfarmersmarkets.org

BIRDING ALGONKIAN

8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 17

Algonkian Regional Park, 47001 Fairway Drive, Sterling. loudounwildlife.org

COURAGE DAY 5K

8:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Sunday, May 18

Franklin Park, 17501 Franklin Park Drive, Purcellville. $15 to $45. thecouragecloset.org

SANDERS CORNER ES 5K RUN/WALK

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Sanders Corner Elementary School, 43100 Ashburn Farm Parkway, Ashburn. $20 to $45. runsignup.com

LOVETTSVILLE MAYFEST

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Town Green, 11 Spring Farm Drive, Lovettsville. lovettsvilleva.gov

TWO TWISTED POSTS

WINERY 5K/10K TRAIL RUN

10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 17

Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. twotwistedposts.com

SPRING FLING AT OATLANDS

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Oatlands Historic House & Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. oatlands.org

LOUDOUN SPRING FARM TOUR

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 18 Loudoun County. loudounfarms.org

LEESBURG ANIMAL PARK’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Leesburg Animal Park, 19246 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg. leesburganimalpark.com

BOOTS BRIDLES & BLING! BARN DANCE

5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Loudoun Therapeutic Riding, 14490 Berlin Turnpike, Lovettsville. $125. ltrf.org

WICKED ON ICE

6 p.m. Saturday, May 17

5:30 p.m. Sunday, May 18

Ashburn Ice House, 21595 Smith Switch Road, Ashburn.

ctoi.us

LINCOLN STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18

Lincoln Strawberry Festival, 18451 Taylor Road, Hamilton. $15.

lincolnstrawberryfestival.com

COMEDY SHOW

7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17

Solace Brewing Company, 42615 Trade West Drive, Sterling. $23 solacebrewing.com

CELEBRATE BIRDS: ROCKLAND FARM

8 to 11 a.m. Sunday, May 18

River House at Rockland Farm, 42527 Farm Lane, Leesburg. loudounwildlife.org

BIRDING IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE

8 to 11 a.m. Sunday, May 18

Izaak Walton League of America Conservation Farm, 20601 Izaak Walton Way, Poolesville. loudounwildlife.org

MINI-COURSE—THE GERMAN SETTLEMENT

6:15 to 9 p.m. Monday, May 19

Lovettsville Town Office, 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville. $50.

lovettsvillehistoricalsociety.org

STORY TIME AT WATERMARK WOODS 10:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, May 22 Watermark Woods, 16764 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. watermarkwood.com

Spring Fling at Oatlands

Celebrate spring with a visit to historic Oatlands on Saturday.

The free event includes tours of the gardens and mansion, family-friendly activities, musical performances by Bach to Rock, and access to walking and hiking trails. The program also will feature community organizations and opportunities to learn about Indigenous Peoples’ Three Sisters corn, beans and squash practices and sample frozen local Paw Paw fruits from special Indigenous guest Rene’ Locklear White (Lumbee).

The Spring Fling is free and open to the public. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. Snacks are available for purchase from Gruto’s ice cream truck and Springhouse Farm.

The property is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-through tours of the mansion are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn more at oatlands.org n

Legal Notices

TOWN OF MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET

Pursuant to Virginia Code Sect. 15.2-2506, the Middleburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on May 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m in the Middleburg Town Hall, 10 West Marshall Street, Middleburg, VA, on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, at which time the public will have an opportunity to express their views. A detailed copy of the proposed budget is available for review on the Town website at www.middleburgva.gov and in the Town Hall 8:30

AM-5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. No sooner than one week after the public hearing, the Council will consider an ordinance adopting the budget, affirming tax rates and appropriating funds, which must be accomplished no later than June 30, 2025. The public is encouraged to submit comments electronically at www.middleburgva.gov/budget.

Danny

Davis, Town Manager

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC MIDDLEBURG TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING

INVITATION TO BID ON A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE USE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES

Pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 15.2-1800 and 15.2-2100 et seq., the Middleburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers, located at 10 West Marshall Street, to receive bids and adopt an Ordinance for a non-exclusive franchise to place telecommunications facilities in the public rights-of-way. Bids shall be submitted in writing and delivered to the Middleburg Town Hall Council Chambers, 10 West Marshall Street on Thursday, May 22, 2025 no later than 6:00 p.m., local time, in open session of Council, to the Clerk of Council. All bids shall be opened in public session and marked for identification by the Mayor or other presiding officer.

If an acceptable bid is received, the Town Council may adopt an Ordinance to grant non-exclusive use of the Town’s property to the successful bidder. Such Ordinance shall include required terms, such as length of lease and tenant’s obligations. A copy of the full Ordinance is available at the Town Hall, 10 W. Marshall Street, Middleburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

In 2020, the Town issued a franchise agreement with LUMOS NETWORKS, INC. (doing business as Segra) (“Segra”). That franchise expires May 14, 2025. The Town of Middleburg has already received a request for a new franchise agreement between the Town and LUMOS NETWORKS, INC. (dba Segra). Under the agreement, the Town would grant Segra the right to install optical fiber within the Town’s public right-of-way. Segra intends to use the optical fiber to provide Segra’s customers’ Broadband Internet Access Service and other fiber optic services. The requested agreement is for a period of twenty years.

The Town reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Interested citizens are invited to express their views on this invitation to bid during the public hearing. Copies of the application to use the public rights-of-way may be viewed on our website at https://www.middleburgva.gov/313/Public-Hearings or at the Town Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.

5/8 & 5/15/25

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 WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS FOR:

TASK ORDER SITE CIVIL AND PARKS DESIGN SERVICES, RFP No. 676855 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 11, 2025.

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

5/15/25

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

I, Tabitha Allene Jones, hereby give notice: My birth footprint Certificate of Citizenship, No.: AA398850 and Consular Report of Birth Abroad, No.: 1195246 which is private property held under trust.

UCC-1 filing No. 20252041667 perfected on May 7, 2025, and adhere to UCC-1 filing No.: 20232067910 dated: 7/13/2023.

All agencies must cease treating it as state property.

Contact: c/o House of Jones PO Box 24802. Oakland, California [94623-1802]

5/15 & 5/22/25

ABC LICENSE

Reall Services Inc., trading as La Casita, 170 W. Main Street, Suite 100, Purcellville, VA. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a convenience grocery store, beer and wine, off premises application.

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.

5/15 & 5/22/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ050219

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Melanie Mavros

Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Rodney Wise (putative father); Unknown Father

The object of this suit is to hold an Preliminary Child Protective Order hearing pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-253(A) for Melanie Mavros; and hold a Nonemergency Preliminary Child Protective Order hearing for pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1-253 for Melanie Mavros.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Rodney Wise, putative father; Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before May 2, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. (Adjudication) and May 28, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. (Disposition).

Loudoun County Public Schools

Dulles South Secondary School Attendance Zone Change Process Spring 2025

The Loudoun County School Board has scheduled a series of meetings to facilitate the review of Dulles South area secondary school attendance zones. The current boundaries for Freedom High School/J. Michael Lunsford Middle School, John Champe High School/Mercer Middle School, and Lightridge High School/Willard Middle School will be reviewed in the attendance zone process.

Tuesday, April 22, 2025*

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 6:30 pm

Monday, May 5, 2025 6:30 pm

Tuesday, May 20, 2025* 4:30 pm/6:30 pm

Monday, June 2, 2025 6:30 pm

Tuesday, June 10, 2025* 4:30 pm/6:30 pm

*Regular School Board Business Meeting

School Board Attendance Zone Public Hearing & Work Session

School Board Attendance Zone Public Hearing & Work Session

School Board Review of Secondary School Attendance Zone Recommendations (Information)

School Board Attendance Zone Briefing & Public Hearing

School Board Adoption of Secondary School Attendance Zone Changes (Action Item)

The meetings will be held at the Loudoun County Public Schools Administration Building (21000 Education Court, Ashburn) and broadcast live on Comcast channel 18 or 1070 (HD) and Verizon Fios channel 43, as well as viewable via the Loudoun County Public Schools website (www.LCPS.org/webcast).

Attendance zone information and data, as it becomes available (including potential attendance zone plans being considered or reviewed by the School Board), will be posted on www.LCPS.org/2025DSBoundary.

Details on how to sign up to speak at an attendance zone public hearing will be provided at www.LCPS.org/citizenparticipation.

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

Beverly I. Tate, Director

Loudoun County Public Schools

Division of Planning & GIS Services 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, Virginia 20148

Telephone: 571-252-1050

Email: LCPSPLAN@LCPS.ORG

4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29 & 6/5/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ050056-02-00, 03-00, 04-00

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Nora Bella O’Brien

Loudoun County Department of Family Services v. Unknown Father

The object of this suit is to hold a hearing on the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights of Unknown Father pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1283 for Nora Bella O’Brien. Hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1-282.1 and §16.1-281 for Nora Bella O’Brien. Unknown Father is hereby notified that failure to appear on the hereinafter noticed date and time may result in the entry of an Order approving a permanency goal of adoption as well as the termination of their residual parental rights with respect to Nora Bella O’Brien. Unknown Father is 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 Nora Bella O’Brien; any authority with respect to the care and supervision of Nora Bella O’Brien; or the right to make health related decisions or determine the religious affiliation of Nora Bella O’Brien. Further, Unknown Father will have no legal and/or financial obligations with respect to Nora Bella O’Brien, and the Department of Family Services of Loudoun County, Virginia may be granted the authority to place Nora Bella O’Brien for adoption and consent to the adoption of Nora Bella O’Brien.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before May 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

5/8 & 5/15/25

4/24, 5/1, 5/8, & 5/15/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.: CL25-2347

Loudoun County Circuit Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Lovepreet Singh Athwal v. Atinder Kaur

The object of this suit is to grant a judgment of divorce; and allow service by publication

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Atinder Kaur appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before June 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

5/1, 5/8, 5/15, & 5/22/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.: CL25-2309

Loudoun County Circuit Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Toni Valentin-Slaughter v. Matthew Valentin-Slaughter

The object of this suit is to divorce

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Matthew Valentin-Slaughter appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before June 6, 2025.

4/24, 5/1, 5/8, & 5/15/25

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, May 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following:

DOAM-2025-0001, LOUDOUN COUNTY FACILITIES STANDARDS MANUAL AMENDMENTS

ROADWAYS OVER DAMS AND PLAT NOTES REGARDING MAINTENANCE OF EMERGENCY ACCESSWAYS AND FIRE LANE IDENTIFICATION (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 April 15, 2025, notice is hereby given of proposed amendments to the Loudoun County Facilities Standards Manual (FSM) These amendments will propose revisions to Chapters 4 and 8 of the FSM, and such other Chapters, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the 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 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.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 4, Transportation, include without limitation the following:

• Amend FSM Section 4.310, General Design Requirements, to establish new standards for all portions of a development to have at least one point of road access that does not cross a “roadway dam” or “roadway causeway”, as defined by the Virginia Department of Transportation.

• Amend FSM Section 4.810, Fire Apparatus Access Road Requirements (FAAR), to establish new standards for developments to have at least one publicly maintained FAAR that does not cross a “roadway dam” or “roadway causeway” and to prohibit privately maintained FAARs from crossing a “roadway dam”, “roadway causeway”, or bridge, except for open bottom arches and culverts.

Proposed amendments to FSM Chapter 8, Administrative Procedures, include without limitation the following:

• Establish new FSM Subsection 8.101.A.23, Fire Apparatus Access Road Note, to require plat and/ or plan notes regarding private maintenance of FAARs designated as accessways for emergency vehicles only and Fire Lane Identification along private and public roads.

• Add “Fire Apparatus Access Road Note. (See 8.101)” as a new standard for the following:

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), and

o 8.103.8 AR-1 and AR-2 Division Plats (SBBD).

CPAM-2024-0006, GLOUCESTER PARKWAY (Comprehensive Plan Amendment)

Pursuant to Virginia Code §§15.2-2204, 15.2-2225, and 15.2-2229, and a Motion adopted by the Board of Supervisors on March 4, 2025, the Planning Commission hereby gives notice of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPAM) to amend the Loudoun County 2019 Countywide Transportation Plan (2019 CTP) (adopted June 20, 2019, as amended) in order to clarify, revise, and/or delete existing, policies, guidelines, and maps regarding the elimination of the section of the extension of Gloucester Parkway between Cochran Mill Road (Route 653) and Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659).

The CPAM proposes revisions to Appendix 1, Planning Guidelines for Major Roadways Countywide, certain Countywide Transportation Maps of the 2019 CTP, and such other Chapters, policies, provisions, and maps of the of the 2019 CTP as may be necessary to implement and maintain consistency with the foregoing amendments or as otherwise necessary to correct typographical errors, section and subsection numbering, and formatting within, update cross-references to, and further clarify the policies of, the above-mentioned section(s) of the 2019 CTP. The proposed amendments under consideration include, without limitation, the following:

Amendments to Appendix 1– Planning Guidelines for Major Roadways Countywide:

• Revise the “South / East End (TO)” column of Line 145 to replace BELMONT RIDGE RD with COCHRAN MILL RD.

Amendments to Countywide Transportation Plan Maps:

• Revise the Loudoun 2019 Countywide Transportation Roadway Plan Map, Loudoun 2019 Countywide Transportation Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Map, and Loudoun 2019 Countywide Transportation Roadway Plan Functional Classification Map, to eliminate the section of the extension of Gloucester Parkway between Cochran Mill Road (Route 653) and Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659).

LEGI-2024-0043, TUSCARORA LANDBAY 3 SUBSTATION:

CMPT-2024-0009, SPEX-2024-0059, & SPEX-2024-0060

(Commission Permit, Special Exception, and Minor Special Exception)

Tuscarora Landbay 3 LLC has submitted applications for a commission permit, special exception, and minor special exception for approximately 37.61 acres of land located south of Crosstrail Boulevard (Route 896) and west of the Washington and Old Dominion Trail in the Leesburg Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as PIN # 150-15-1774-000 and Tax Map # /61/G/1//SCOM/.

For CMPT-2024-0009 and SPEX-2024-0059, the applicant seeks to establish a Substation use in the IP (Industrial Park) Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance (Zoning Ordinance). For SPEX-2024-0060, the applicant seeks a minor special exception to eliminate a Type C and Type B buffer yard requirements as required under the Section 4.07.09(D) and Table 7.04.03-1 of the Zoning Ordinance along the west side of the Subject Property.

LEGI-2024-0035, STONEWALL CREEK BUSINESS PARK SUBSTATION: ZCPA-2024-0002, CMPT-2024-0007, SPEX-2024-0052, SPEX-2024-0053 (Zoning Concept Plan Amendment, Commission Permit, Special Exception, Minor Special Exception)

NOVA 1 OWNER LLC has submitted applications for a zoning concept plan amendment, commission permit, special exception, and minor special exception for a portion of an 89.99-acre property zoned IP (Industrial Park) and GI (General Industry) under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance located on the north side of Dulles Greenway (Route 267), south of Cochran Mill Road (Route 653), and west of Sycolin Road (Route 625) in the Leesburg Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as:

PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (PIN)

PROPERTY ADDRESS

For CMPT-2024-0007 and SPEX-2024-0053, the applicant seeks to permit a utility substation in the IP Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. For ZCPA-2024-0002, the applicant seeks to amend proffered Tree Conservation Areas. For SPEX-2024-0052, the applicant seeks to modify the landscape buffer requirements.

LEGI-2024-0019, LUCKETTS WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY: CMPT-2024-0003, SPEX-2024-0039, & SPEX-2024-0091 (Commission Permit, Special Exception, & Minor Special Exception)

Loudoun County Department of General Services has submitted an application for a commission permit, special exception, and minor special exception for approximately 37.81 acres of land adjacent to Lucketts Elementary School, south of Lucketts Road (Route 662), east of James Monroe Highway (Route 15), and west of Falconaire Place (Route 3875) in the Catoctin Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as:

PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

138-45-4663-000 42429 Lucketts Road Leesburg, Virgina /20//20/////1/

179-30-6314-000 14560 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, Virgina /30///2/////7/

179-30-6877-000 14550 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, Virgina /20////////33/

179-40-7230-000 42631 Lucketts Road Leesburg, Virgina /20////////39/ 179-40-8655-000 42367 Lucketts Road Leesburg, Virgina /20////////39A

For CMPT-2024-0003, the applicant seeks to permit a sewer service area served by an existing sewage treatment plant. For SPEX-2024-0039, the applicant seeks to permit a sewage treatment plant to support a sewer service area in the CR-1 (Countryside Residential – 1) Legacy Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. For SPEX-2024-0091, the applicant seeks to modify the Type C Buffer to eliminate the minimum 95% opacity requirement for fences, walls, and/or berms, reduce the width from 25 feet to 10 feet, and reduce the planting requirements from 120 to 84 plant units per 100 linear feet around the entire Subject Property.

LEGI-2024-0002, CONCORDE INDUSTRIAL PARK: ZMAP-2024-0001, SPEX-2024-0009, & SPEX-2024-0040 (Zoning Map Amendment & Special Exceptions)

Prologis has submitted an application for a zoning map amendment and two special exceptions for approximately 17.209 acres of land located north of Executive Drive (Route 885), west of Relocation Drive (Route 775), and northeast of Old Ox Road (Route 606) in the Sterling Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as:

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Legal Notices

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Identification Number (PIN)

045-26-9479-000 113 Executive Drive Sterling, Virgina /94//12///9A1/

045-27-4849-000 22660 Executive Drive Sterling, Virginia /94//12///9A2/

For ZMAP-2024-0001, the applicant seeks to rezone the Subject Property from the PD-GI (Planned Development – General Industry) Zoning District under the 1972 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance to the IP (Industrial Park) Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance in order to develop data center or other industrial uses permitted by the IP Zoning District. For SPEX-2024-0040, the applicant seeks to increase the permitted floor area ratio from 0.6 to 0.8. For SPEX-2024-0009, the applicant seeks to permit a utility substation on the Subject Property.

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 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).

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: CLIFFORD KEIRCE, CHAIR LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION 5/8 & 5/15/25

LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

NOTICE OF ABANDONED BICYCLES

Notice is hereby given that the bicycles described below were found and delivered to the Office of the Sheriff of Loudoun County; if the owners of the listed bicycles are not identified within sixty (60) days following the final publication of this notice, the individuals who found said bicycles shall be entitled to them if he/she desires. All unclaimed bicycles will be handled according to Chapter 228.04 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County. DESCRIPTION

GLITCH GENESIS BICYCLE w/ TRAINING WHEELS. BLUE AND GREEN

GENESIS 21 SPD SABER ROAD BIKE

SO250007100 4/24/25 43083 WAXPOOL RD ASHBURN, VA 20148 571-367-8400

SO250007442 4/19/25 258 E JUNIPER AVE STERLING, VA 20164 571-367-8400

5/8 & 5/15/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

PLAT-2025-0077

Stone Ridge-Section 40

Mr. Derek DiDonato, Van Metre Homes at Stone Ridge VII, LLC, of Fairfax, Virginia is requesting preliminary record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately four (4.389) acres into twenty-four (24) lots and associated easements. The property is located north of Greenstone Drive (Route 2628), south of Pebblebush Place (Route 2630), and east of Stone Springs Boulevard (Route 2625). The property is zoned PD-H4 (Administered as R-8) under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 205-46-9303-000 in the Dulles Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http:// www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2025-0077. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Suzanna Brady at Suzanna.Brady@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by May 28, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

PLAT-2025-0071

Fleetwood North – Phase II

Ms. Angela Rassas, of Toll Mid-Atlantic LP Company of Leesburg, VA is requesting preliminary plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately fifty-seven (57.2318) acres into one hundred ninety-six (196) lots, associated easements, and right-of-way dedication. The property is located west of Evergreen Mills Road (Route 621), south of the intersection of Evergreen Mills Road and Hartland Drive (Route 616). The property is zoned R-4 (Single Family Residential), under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as MCPI # 24310-7274-000, 243-10-7419-000, 201-45-1579-000, 244-40-6257-000, 244-30-4062-000, and 244-400641-000 in the Little River Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www. loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2025-0071. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Eric Blankenship at Eric.Blankenship@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by May 21, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, & 5/1525

TOWN OF LEESBURG

DEPARTMENT OF UTILITIES

NOTICE OF WATER MAIN FLUSHING

The Town of Leesburg will conduct controlled flushing of water mains throughout the Town beginning April 21st through June 2nd , 2025. This preventative maintenance program is essential for maintaining the Town’s high standards of water quality.

Water mains are flushed by opening fire hydrants and allowing them to flow freely for a short period of time. The flushing cleans out sediment, removes air which may accumulate in the water mains and restores chlorine levels in areas of limited water use.

Water is safe to drink and safe to use during flushing. However, flushing may result in temporary discoloration and sediment in the water. If discoloration or sediment is evident, the Town recommends residents avoid doing laundry until the discoloration subsides. Flushing may also introduce air into the water, which may temporarily cause erratic flow or a milky look. If this occurs, open your cold water tap until a clear steady flow of water is observed.

Some residents and businesses may experience lower than normal pressure during the flushing in their neighborhood. The Town regrets any inconvenience the flushing operation may cause.

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

4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29/25

Loco Service Providers

READERS’ poll

As county supervisors review rural zoning rules, what is most important?

38.9% Preserve open spaces

27.4% Discourage subdivisions

16.3%

Would you consider living in a tiny house?

Share your views at loudounnow.com/polls

Letters

continued from page 33

of terror which destabilizes our society. Studies published by the National Academy of Sciences and separately by the Center for American Progress clearly show that jurisdictions that actively support their immigrants tend to experience enhanced public safety and prosperity. That is, when counties strictly separate community policing from immigration enforcement, they experience lower crime and stronger economies.

We owe it to our neighbors and to ourselves to see everyone in our county as a full human being. We owe it to our community and to our country to resist the Trump administration’s hateful rhetoric and authoritarian behavior. Sheriff Chapman must do better in supporting the county he purports to serve. LCSO should immediately stop active cooperation with ICE, should withdraw from the 287(g) agreement, should commit to never again entering into such agreement, and finally should re-dedicate itself to protecting and serving all the members of our Loudoun County community, no matter their immigration status.

— Brian Stearns, Lovettsville

CHIPshots

— By Chip Beck, beckchip@aol.com

Why Men Matter

BY BRUCE GEMMILL

At 19, my father—like so many young men of his generation—answered the call to serve. He became a bombardier in a B-24 during World War II. When I once told him how amazed I was at the bravery it took to fly those dangerous missions at such a young age, he gave a response I’ll never forget: “Bruce, I can tell you that after each mission, there wasn’t a dry flight suit on landing back at our base.”

My father wasn’t just brave—he was a gentleman. He modeled manhood with strength, humility, and dignity. In our home, cussing was rare, discipline was consistent, and women were treated with admiration and deep respect—as intellectual equals, mothers, partners, and vital contributors to the tone and moral compass of the household.

Somewhere along the line, our culture lost that sense of balance.

Over the past several decades, men have been increasingly portrayed as either emotionally stunted buffoons or toxic aggressors. Simultaneously, as women’s empowerment rose—rightfully achieving long-overdue recognition in the workplace and public life—the importance of men’s distinct, stabilizing roles was often diminished or dismissed entirely. This was never meant to be a zero-sum game.

Men and women are not societal competitors. We are collaborators in family, community, and national well-being. Healthy masculinity—characterized by courage, responsibility, protection, and self-sacrifice—is not a threat to modern values. It is, in fact, a prerequisite to them.

Fathers matter. Boys need to see what it means to be a good man. Girls need to see how they should be treated. Children of both sexes are grounded when they have a father’s steady hand, and a mother’s compassionate guidance, working in harmony.

Wives and mothers deserve partners who are present—not just physically, but emotionally, spiritually, and morally. And women benefit most when men embrace—not abandon—their responsibility to lead with love, strength, and self-control.

This imbalance has consequences. We see it in education, where common-sense parental oversight of public-school curricula has too often given way to ideologically driven agendas. Men must step up—alongside women—to ensure our schools teach truth, discipline, civics, and character.

We see it in politics, where too many elected officials are more interested in self-promotion than the preservation of American values. Men must re-engage in civic life—not to dominate it, but to serve it. We need leaders of integrity, not

influencers chasing headlines.

We also see it in the breakdown of the family. The data is clear: children who grow up with committed fathers are less likely to face poverty, incarceration, and educational failure. The solution isn’t to diminish women or glorify men—but to restore the complementary value each brings to family and community life.

Masculinity, rightly understood, isn’t about posturing or power—it’s about purpose. It’s about teaching boys to become men who protect, provide, and persevere. It’s about reminding our nation that strength and tenderness can, and must, coexist.

The American family, the American school system, and American political life will not thrive without men who are willing to shoulder the burden, stand firm in their beliefs, and partner with women in the great task of shaping the next generation.

Now more than ever, men matter. n Bruce Gemmill is a longtime Leesburg resident, former member of the Leesburg Town Council, and an appointee to the Virginia Governor’s Commission on Government Reform & Restructuring. He has served on numerous chamber of commerce and nonprofit boards and is seasoned marketing and communications executive.

Economic Mood

continued from page 1

two to three years, and so far, that’s not the case today,” Barkin said.

Based on credit card spending monitored by Barkin every day, consumers are continuing to spend money, however they’re not expressing positive sentiments about it.

“I think that has a lot to do with inflation,” he said. “If there’s one thing we’ve relearned in the last three or four years, it’s how much we all hate inflation, and people are nervous you’re going to see more of that. But it doesn’t seem that that uncertainty or dislike of inflation has yet turned into spending, and so that’s what you want to monitor. If you want to look at the economy for the rest of the year, it’s what happens to consumer spending and so far, so good.”

Clower said what he doesn’t want to happen is that fear of the unknown turns into businesses becoming “paralyzed by uncertainty.”

“In some respects, I think what we need to do—as a region, as individuals—is get together and look at these things, and what do we need to do to be more competitive for the industries that are going to grow our economy, and then just start acting on it and maybe acting on it in small ways, but you just do that. That’s the way we will get through this downturn,” he said.

IMPACTS OF FEDERAL JOB CUTS

“What we’re seeing, of course, is pull back and uncertainty in government spending levels, which is impacting our direct employment, although it’s not shown up a lot,” Clower said. “Federal employment is down some maybe about 10,000 jobs. That’s a little cyclical, but there’s also part of it where we know that the pain is coming, because we have these folks who have decided to take the buyout packages that won’t hit our data until the fall.”

In addition, there are federal employees told they have lost their jobs, but the courts have told them they haven’t, adding to the uncertainty, Clower said. Announcements from the Department of Agriculture that it would be cutting 10% of its staffing and relocating much of its remaining workforce and from Sen. Joni Earnst (R-IA) that she had filed a bill mandating 30% of

all federal workers be relocated away from the DC region could also have impacts on Loudoun and the surrounding jurisdictions.

While Loudoun, with an estimated 17,000 federal workers residing in the county, will not be as directly impacted as other metro localities, Clower said, “you can’t be next to the whirlpool and not eventually start losing some stuff to it.”

IMPACTS ON HOUSING

Federal jobs cuts could lead to families moving out of the area even if the housing market is strong and they have equity from their homes, he said.

“We are actually seeing resignation from employees and government staff who have jobs still just saying, ‘no, my partner’s lost their job. We’re going to take this opportunity and even if they walk away from a 3% mortgage, if they can go to Charlotte, North Carolina with $200,000 in their pocket and have a mortgage, that’s only a couple hundred thousand dollars, having to pay a 6.5% mortgage isn’t that bad,” Clower said.

Barkin said Virginia’s population growth has remained flat, while North and South Carolina have seen 2% yearover-year increases. Washington, DC, Maryland and West Virginia are decreasing.

“Home listings are up, not as much as most people want them to be up, but they are up. And then job postings, if you look at Indeed are down, I think 30%. So you are seeing some of those indicators here,” he said.

A big part of that, Barkin said, is housing affordability and availability.

“I drive all over … on 95 or 85 through North and South Carolina and every time you get off, when you go to an exit, you see another Pulte Homes, or Ryan Homes, or Lennar Homes, big subdivisions going up,” he said. “You have flat land that’s within an hour of a city, and people build there. And that’s just not what you see here in Northern Virginia. It’s not what you see in Maryland, certainly, or DC. And I think we’re in a world where people can live and work in different places from where their jobs are, and they really do still value a home that’s affordable. And if we can’t provide more affordable homes for workers, that’s going to be a detriment to the growth you’re talking about.”

Clower said building more homes is important.

“We have a great quality of life here. It just got to where the housing prices just weren’t worth it for many households. So, we’ve got to fix that,” he said. IMPACTS OF TARIFFS

Tariffs, or potential tariffs, are adding to the market’s uncertainty, Barkin said.

“I think this is the world’s greatest example of the fog, because you tell me what tariff rates we’re going to have on what countries, on what products, for what duration, with what reciprocal tariffs or retaliation on the other side, and how that’s going to be handled by countries, businesses and consumers? I couldn’t tell you that,” he said.

Most businesses that Barkin has talked have said they are going to try to increase their prices to offset the additional costs, while some will try to find different solutions such as swapping out one typically used material for another.

“In 2022, every service you contracted with increased its prices and you didn’t like it at the time, but by and large, you accepted it,” he said. “In part because you were so exhausted from the pandemic you were going to take anything, in part because stimulus checks, in part because the asset values were up so much. People had more money, wages were up, and so costs went up, prices went up, and people accepted it.”

But that’s not the case anymore, Barkin said.

“What I’m hearing from retailers is that consumers are about tapped out, and that means that it’s nice to say you’re going to pass it on, but it’s not as easy to pass it on as you might think,” he said.

If that’s the case, businesses will feel a profit margin “squeeze” which could result in companies needing to take a hard look at their operating expenses.

“The risk here is that, should the tariffs continue to be applied and should they be passed through at big rates, there’s a lot of uncertainty here, then that’s got risk on the price side, inflation, and tt’s also got risk on the employment side,” Barkin said.

IMPACTS ON NONPROFITS

Economic changes will also have an impact on nonprofits that rely heavily on federal, state and local funding. Clower said it’s likely that some non-

profits will need to merge or find other ways to survive funding cuts.

“We expect that there’s going to be many nonprofits, smaller nonprofits that are not going to survive this cycle, given the cutbacks and things like the contractors for USAID, other things like that. It’s going to be a real challenge,” he said.

Loudoun, which is home to over 3,000 nonprofits, also relies on the organizations for human services that other localities rely on the local government to provide.

“You guys have taken the wise approach of letting people kind of outsource that into it, and so there is a governmental support in some of this,” Clower said.

“A fact that really struck me is that 10% of federal government spending is personnel and personnel related costs, and 90% are checks that are written to universities and state and local governments and individuals and hospitals and nonprofits and defense contractors and the like,” Barkins said. “And so there’s just a very open question about how much spending will be cut in total, and as it’s cut, which of these sectors are going to be hit more or less? And I don’t think it’s been resolved.”

STEADYING THE MOOD

If the data surrounding the direction of the economy remains strong, there is still a concern surrounding the perception of the economy and whether that alone is enough to have wide-sweeping economic impacts.

“I do think people like to ask the question of whether we can talk ourselves into a recession and I think in the business sentiment world it does happen that businesses scale back, and then something happens, and almost collectively all sort of decide, ‘OK, now we’ve got to do what we’re going to do.’ You could argue we saw that in the tech industry in the fall of 2022 when all of the big tech guys all of a sudden did layoffs all around the same time. That’s the kind of way that plays out on the consumer side.”

It’s conceivable, but it doesn’t happen often, Clower said.

“I do think less uncertainty would be of value to businesses and maybe to consumers. Of course, it depends how you resolve the uncertainties,” he said. n

A Loudoun Moment

Southern States

continued from page 1

ers and two civilians. An investigation determined the explosion was caused by gas leaking from a buried propane tank.

The suit alleges that Southern States employees had filled the propane tank that same day, even though the company had previously “red-tagged” the tank and removed it from service because it had identified safety issues related to the

leaking of propane.

The suit alleges negligence, gross negligence and willful and wanton negligence against Southern States, Roger Bentley and Michael Litten.

All of the plaintiffs are seeking $100 million in punitive damages. Brown and Diamond are requesting $100 million each in compensatory damages. Woods is seeking $20 million in compensatory and punitive damages. Mashaal is seeking $20 million in punitive damages against each defendant. Bulman is requesting $20

million in punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. Pia Apolonio is asking for $10 million for costs as well as punitive damages. Smith and Mohseni each suffered property damages totaling $20,000 and $667,000.

The suit, filed in the Richmond Circuit Court, requests a jury trial.

Criminal charges were also filed against Bentley last fall by the Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney. A three-week jury trial is scheduled to begin July 7 on charges of involuntary manslaughter and

four other misdemeanors relating to the unlawful transfer, release, maintenance and control of liquid petroleum gas.

According to court documents, Bentley handled propane without proper certification. He faces up to 10 years in prison on the involuntary manslaughter charges. In the days following the explosion, the Fire Marshal’s Office temporarily halted all Loudoun County gas deliveries by his then-employer Southern States Cooperative, Inc. – Leesburg – Fairfax Petroleum Service. n

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

A sunrise along Snickersville Turnpike near Airmont.

Photo by Douglas Graham