Sheriff Eyes Elementary SROs, More Drones in Strategic Plan
BY PATRICK LEWIS
The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office on Monday released its first-ever public strategic plan. The document summarizes the department’s structure and activities and lays out goals and objectives for the next several years.
The plan offers an overview of the agency’s organizational structure and mission. It is the largest full-service sheriff ’s office in the commonwealth, with approximately 700 sworn and 200 civilian members.
“This plan is a promise to the people of Loudoun County,” Sheriff Mike Chapman stated in a Monday announcement. “It is a roadmap for building a safer future, with transparency and accountability at its core.”
The document includes a plethora of goals and objectives for the department, shining a light on plans for internal expansion and reorganization.
One planning priority slated to begin in 2026 and continue through 2029-2030 is a proposed expansion of the School Resource Officer Unit to provide coverage in elementary schools. Expansion of SROs to elementary schools was recommended in April 2024 by a Blue Ribbon Panel
SHERIFF'S STRATEGIC PLAN continues on page 37
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
The Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System and Sheriff ’s Office on Tuesday morning put their water rescue skills to the test in a training exercise on Beaverdam Reservoir.
The training simulated a three-person incident at the reservoir with fire and rescue personnel working to save two of the individuals. A third person in the exercise was deemed to have drowned and the Sheriff ’s Office dive team launched a recovery mission to find the hypothetical body.
Fire and Rescue, Sheriff’s Office Partner for Water Rescue Training
On the command side, fire and rescue leadership partnered with the Sheriff ’s Office to set up a command post at the reservoir’s shoreline near Alford Road. There the two agencies collaborated to achieve
TRAINING continues on page 38
WATER RESCUE
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue firefighters practice water rescues at Beaverdam Reservoir May 20.
Loudoun
‘First of its Kind’ Power Substation Considered by Supervisors
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
A data center application that includes a gas-insulated substation was presented to the Board of Supervisors for consideration last week.
The Arcola Grove application requests a special exception permit for a site already approved for 614,400 square feet of data center space to increase the building height from 60 to 100 feet — which would allow an additional 172,000 square feet of data center space and add a substation on the property.
The original data center application without a substation was approved in 2021.
Last September, the Planning Commission recommended denying the application amid concerns that the substation would be located too close to homes that are being developed. At the time, the application included an open-air substation, the typical design of substations through-
out
the county.
The nearby development includes the old Arcola School that is being redeveloped as part of an affordable housing project approved in 2023.
Since then, Powerhouse Arcola, which is submitting the application, has redesigned the application to shrink the substation’s footprint, allowing for more space between it and the planned housing.
‘Fully Awake’: Randall Encourages Community Caring in
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) last week addressed community members to provide her annual State of the County address – highlighting Loudoun’s strong economic status, uncertainty over the impact of federal changes, and urging community caring even when it’s hard.
“In an interwoven community, hard things can sometimes look like ensuring our kids have nutritious food to start their day,” she said. “It could mean providing funds to our nonprofits so the people who take care of the people can continue serving. In an interwoven community, doing hard things means responding to tragedy and supporting a family or community both financially but more importantly, emotionally.”
Randall said that level of caring has been described by some as “woke.”
“To the county that I love, I say to you: if feeding our children and elderly is woke; if providing accommodations for our disabled community is woke; if welcoming new immigrant neighbors is woke; if respecting and protecting our LGBT+ community is woke; if providing housing to the
“We are proffering the first of its kind GIS substation,” DLA Piper Consultant Brian Winterhalter said during a May 14 public hearing.
A gas-insulated substation has the majority of the infrastructure enclosed in a building and is cooled by gas, rather than by air. The benefit of a GIS is that the space needed decreases significantly.
“We’ve shrunk the substation by 40% with the GIS substation,” Winterhalter said.
The substation’s footprint would decrease from 4 acres to 2.4 acres, he said.
Loudoun currently has two gas-insulated substations under construction, American Real Estate Partners Representative Elizabeth Nicholson said.
In addition, Winterhalter touted the application’s new design characteristics for the data center.
“What we’re really here to offer is being
State of the County
best of our ability is woke; if believing in science and data is woke; if simply caring for the well-being of our residents, friends, and neighbors is woke, then Loudoun, I choose to be fully awake,” she said.
Randall said the community is facing
challenges that before now were unimaginable but urged that the county’s strength lies in “treating our fellow Loudouners with respect, dignity and compassion.”
Amid federal funding uncertainty, Randall said supporting nonprofits and
ensuring there are attainable housing opportunities is crucial.
“It must be noted that in Loudoun and the entire National Capital Region, the housing market we have today is different from what it was at the beginning of this fiscal year,” she said. “With federal government layoffs and executive orders, housing stability in the National Capital Region is expected to be impacted. However, of this I am certain, if we do not continue to welcome new friends and neighbors to live in our county, we will not have the available workforce to fill future employment opportunities. In short, our ability to provide housing options at different income levels is required to keep our strong, robust workforce.”
She touted the board’s adopted fiscal year 2026 budget, which dedicates revenue generated by a penny of real estate tax rate to support attainable housing.
“In 2021, the Board of Supervisors adopted an Unmet Housing Needs Strategic Plan to examine how our county could address our housing needs for both attainable and market-rate housing for rental or
GIS SUBSTATION continues on page 7 RANDALL continues on page 6
Powerhouse Arcola LLC
A rendering shows design characteristics of a data center and utility substation application proposed for Arcola.
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) delivers the 2025 State of the County address May 15.
continued from page 4
for purchase in a strategic and systematic manner,” she said. “Of the 134 goals in the housing implementation plan, we have fully completed 38 and another 45 are in progress. However, even with those successes, Loudoun remains behind in meeting our attainable housing goals.”
Randall praised the county’s nonprofits for rallying behind the community and providing crucial services to residents.
“Our nonprofits are an indispensable part of our interwoven community. We can never take them for granted or assume that county government can ever meet the needs fulfilled by our nonprofit and faith-based organizations,” she said.
Randall said a recent survey conducted by the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties found that 64% of the area’s nonprofits reported that a significant number of the individuals they serve receive federal funds. In addition, 50% of the nonprofits said they have already experienced a cut or delay in federal funding, while 65% said they have seen an increase in service demands.
“Of particular concern, 25% of responding nonprofits identified funding to address staff wellness, burnout, and retention as a high priority funding need. In other words, the people who take care of the people are getting overwhelmed and feel concerned they won’t be able to offer much-needed services,” Randall said.
Randall also touted the county’s many partnerships with outside organizations including the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce, Northern Virginia Building Industry Association, Virginia Housing, Loudoun County Public Schools, Dulles International Airport, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, Northern Virginia Regional Commission, Northern Virginia Transportation Commission, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
She also praised Director of Economic Development Buddy Rizer and his team for shoring up Loudoun’s strong economic health in collaboration with Visit Loudoun. The county’s job growth is estimated at 250,000 jobs over the next 10 years and since Visit Loudoun’s establishment, the county’s wine industry has grown by 700%.
“With the combination of Buddy Rizer’s brilliant and steady business acumen, and [Visit Loudoun President and CEO]
Beth Erickson’s vision and foresight, Buddy and Beth continue to be Loudoun County’s brain trust, bringing billions to our economy and making Loudoun a premier county to live, work, learn, and play,” Randall said.
Much of the county’s economic status is also due to the benefits of data centers, Randall said.
“Data centers represent an astonishing 38% of our overall revenue picture, and the top 10 commercial taxpayers in Loudoun are all data centers. Data centers are increasingly becoming more active in Loudoun, contributing to the arts, sports, and education. However, it is also true that I and my colleagues receive more constituent inquiries and complaints about data centers than any other topic,” Randall said.
She touted the board’s recent decision to make all new data center applications undergo special exception review and require board approval.
“It is only through effective management of data center growth, welcoming new technologies, encouraging better design and materials, and appreciating our data centers’ contribution to Loudoun that we retain our data center community and maintain our status as the data center capital of the world,” she said.
Randall opened the night by remem-
bering residents who died in the Jan. 29 American Airlines plane crash near Reagan National Airport.
“Lost on that flight were nine beloved members of our Loudoun County community,” she said. “They were ice skaters, coaches, and parents – tragically including four young people. They belonged to the community of ice skaters, a close-knit community of talented, active, imaginative, productive members of our County and of the National Capital Region. The tragedy of Flight 5342 serves as a painful reminder of how fleeting life can be.”
She praised the community for rallying behind the families whose loved ones had died.
The night’s program also included musical performances by Rock Ridge High School junior Grace Carper, Dr. Damon Moore and Tracy Hamlin.
“Our county’s sound financial strength and stability is important, but it’s not what makes us great,” Randall said. “Loudoun, I submit to you that as a county, we are great because the vast majority of our people are good. And because I believe in the value of our collective strength, I say to you now, in full and complete confidence, that the state of Loudoun County is strong.” n
GIS Substation
continued from page 4
a leader in data center development, moving forward data center design for the county, and frankly, we hope to be raising the bar for data center development in the county, and just across the board, generally,” he said.
County planning staff members said they did not support the application amid concerns surrounding the building heights and that the substation would not be compatible with other nearby structures. The Comprehensive Plan envisions a transition use between the intensity of data centers and substations and residential units, Project Manager Darby Metcalf said.
“Staff cannot support the modification without transitions and recommend reduced building heights and/or step downs in height for the data center buildings,” he said.
Supervisors echoed Planning Commission concerns about the data center and substation’s proximity to homes.
“I have a data center in my district that we’re having some difficulty with now. There’re homes that are 1,650 feet away and when those backup generators run, they hear them clear as day. When the turbines are running, they again can hear them as clear as day. Homes that are 350 feet away can hear them clear as day. So, you’re going to have the exact same issue here at this site if we were to approve this,” Supervisor Koran Saines (D-Sterling) said.
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) noted the recent board decision as part of updated data center regulation zonings identifies 500 feet as the closest a home should be to a data center while the closest home from a building on this site will be 468 feet away.
Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles), whose district includes the property, said his two main concerns are noise and building heights. However, he said that it was important to remember that the data center was approved by the board before residential units. He also noted that at the time the data center was approved, the area fell under the high noise zone around Dulles Airport, making it incompatible for residential uses. After the noise zone boundary changed, residential units were approved there.
“There’s no question that the GIS, the gas-insulated substation, is much better. So. I really thank you. I was very clear, I think, to you that I would not even consider the previous application, given the circumstances with the housing around,” Letourneau said.
He asked if there was a way to limit the building height to reduce the visual impact on the homes and mitigate the noise through proffering out gas turbine fans.
Nicholson said she would look into reducing the building height and said that gas turbined fans would not be part of their design. Winterhalter added that the generators have been positioned to face away from the neighborhood and been screened to help mitigate the noise.
“We have an approved rezoning for data centers that actually can go closer than the 468 square feet as an existing approval. … So, if we deny the application, they can build data centers closer to residential than what this application is,” Letourneau said.
Because of that, the application is worth working through to see if there is a way to improve it, he said.
“I think that you have brought forward, really, probably one of the best proposals we’ve ever seen in terms of additionality to a project – the architectural design. And then the GIS substation is really significant, because although there are a few like it, this is really the only one of its kind that we’ve had, and this is a potential standard that we can hold future applicants to for this type of situation that we have not come close to before,” he said.
The application was opposed by the Piedmont Environmental Council, which said the application does not conform with the Comprehensive Plan.
“In particular, the existing development pattern in the Arcola area is very fragmented. The requests for additional square footage and height on this site, on the edge of the Suburban Employment place type adds to the challenging pattern, because it doesn’t provide a reasonable transition to the adjacent residential neighborhoods,” Senior Land Use Field Representative Gem Bingol said.
Supervisors are expected to take a final vote on the application at their July 15 meeting. n
Leesburg Town Council Waives Loudoun Pride Festival Costs
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
The Leesburg council last week approved a special event fee waiver for the Loudoun Pride Festival to be held at Ida Lee Park.
The event’s estimated cost of $10,743 would be covered by the town. For the past three years, the festival has been held at Claude Moore Park in Sterling. It is the largest Pride event in the Northern Virginia region, according to a staff briefing.
“It is a festival that draws 550 businesses and organizations, 5,000 people from across the region,” Equality Loudoun President Candice Tuck said.
Equality Loudoun, the host of the Loudoun Pride Festival, is an LGBTQ+ advocacy organization.
Per the fee waiver, the town will pay $2,650 for three days of parking rental to give Equality Loudoun time to set up the stage, $2,340 for six police officers for event safety from noon to 6 p.m., $910 for two officers from noon to 7 p.m., $975 for two officers for traffic support from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., $637 for one police staff
supervisor from 11:30 to 7 p.m., $2,730 for six public works staff for parking from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and 20 hours of Parks and Recreation staff time. The event has an entrance fee of $5.
The town has waived the fees of events in the past, including the Loudoun County High School homecoming parade this year. Of the $20,000 approved in that waiver, under $8,000 was actually spent.
Councilmember Todd Cimino-Johnson said the event is a good opportunity for the town.
“OK, so of 5,000 people that are attending this event, they all spend $20 it’s $100,000 to our town,” Cimino-Johnson said. “Let’s be good hosts. Let’s have these 5,000 people here, because if this goes well and works really well in Leesburg, they’re going to come back to Leesburg and not go back to the county.”
He said he’d rather see people spending their money in Leesburg than the county.
“My hope is that because this is the first Pride festival in Leesburg at Ida Lee that we can be welcoming hosts and help them in the first year waive the full $10,742,” Councilmember Zach Cummings said. “A
$42 to $48 million budget, $10,000 is really nothing, and we spend $11,000 on other things that I think does not provide the same opportunity to welcome visitors and our own residents with open arms and say ‘we are glad you’re here.’”
Councilmember Nicholas Krukowski said that the event includes a robust police presence. Deputy Town Manager Kate Trask said the number of police matched LPD’s recommendation.
Councilmember Neil Steinberg said that when talking about the number of police officers and recommendations for LPD, this issue isn’t one he wants to “dance around.”
“It’s my understanding that in the past years, in fact I attended several, this event has been held at Claude Moore which is a slightly less visible location,” Steinberg said. “However, Ida Lee is a much more visible location. And sad as it may be, an event like this could easily attract individuals who would not be happy with it.”
Steinberg said, while he was fully in support of Equality Loudoun, he also supported capping the fee waiver at $5,000, splitting the difference with the group and
evaluating how well the event does this year.
Mayor Kelly Burk said she was concerned that fee waivers would become the expectation for organizations that want to host events.
“Whatever we do tonight, I think we, when we move forward, we need to have another work session or policy discussion,” she said. “We need to have that discussion.”
The waiver passed 5-1-1 with Councilmember Kari Nacy against and Councilmember Patrick Wilt absent.
Nacy explained that she wanted a more defined policy for event waivers, and for painting on roads, a previous item put forth by Equality Loudoun that day.
“As I’m sure you all know, it’s a tough year for so many different reasons,” Tuck said. “But I dream that for my kids to play right there in Ida Lee, to be a place that they know is safe and accepting of families like theirs that have two moms or two dads.”
The Loudoun Pride Festival is set to take place May 31 at Ida Lee Park from noon to 6 p.m. n
Equality Loudoun Funded - Rainbow Crosswalk Approved
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
The Leesburg Town Council last week approved the painting of a rainbow crosswalk on Harriston Street at the W&OD Trail Crossing adjacent to Raflo Park.
Equality Loudoun proposed the crosswalk design, offering to pay for all supplies and labor to paint it. Four town staff members will provide traffic control to direct traffic on Harrison Street and to assist with crossing of the W&OD Trail during the work, according to a staff briefing.
Per the concept design, the asphalt portion of the existing crosswalk will be painted in rainbow colors, associated with the LGBTQ+ community. Permanent paint with a grit component will be added to increase traction for pedestrians and vehicles.
Deputy Town Manager Kate Trask said the crosswalk should serve as a “visible symbol of belonging and community pride.”
Equality Loudoun will pay for periodic touchups and repainting of the crosswalk. The cost of four staff to provide traffic control during regular work hours, also paid by Equality Loudoun, is estimated at $800, Trask said.
The approval of the painting came with the stipulation that the council work toward a codified policy for groups wishing to paint on roadways. The painting will be treated as a temporary program, where staff member will evaluate the performance of the painting for 90 days to come up with policy recommendations.
Councilmember Kari Nacy asked if the
Police Department was consulted on the potential for the painting to provide a traffic concern. Director of Public Works and Capital Projects Renée La Follette said she worked closely with the town’s transportation engineer and found studies indicating that colorful crosswalks have the potential to reduce crashes.
The council approved the project on a 5-1-1 vote with Nacy opposed and Councilmember Patrick Wilt absent.
Nacy said she wants the town to set a codified policy before setting a precedent. She added that Equality Loudoun asked to paint a rainbow crosswalk last year, but the council “kicked the can down the road” because they didn’t have a policy in place yet.
Equality Loudoun President Candice Tuck addressed the council on the importance of both the rainbow crosswalk and, another item discussed later in the meeting, a fee waiver for the Leesburg Pride Festival.
“The first time I sat here, I didn’t know
what to expect, so I came a little bit different than I look today,” Tuck said. “It was a difficult decision, but one that was based in understanding whether or not this dais would be a safe place, this chamber would be a safe place.”
“I wish I knew from the first day living in Leesburg that I was safe to be me. Unfortunately, not everyone in this town, not everybody in this county, not everybody in this region knows that Leesburg is a safe place. After living here the last six years, I know differently,” Tuck said. “… There are so many murals and art displays around the town that show the dedication of Leesburg to our minorities, through art, through music, and focusing tonight with the dedication to veterans, public works, children, police and more. But many of those people are also part of the LGBTQ community. They don’t always see that community, that visibility, or that safety. This crosswalk is an effort to show that without reservation, without hesitation, that Leesburg is open and inclusive.” n
Equality Loudoun
A graphic of the proposed rainbow crosswalk on Harrison Street in Leesburg.
Utilities Department Showcases Machinery, Water Main Gear
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
The Town of Leesburg on Saturday invited residents to tour its Utilities Department, giving them a chance to learn about the machinery and work that goes into providing its services.
Staff members operated two of the vacuum trucks on display–showcasing their abilities to residents up close. One staff member used a truck’s vacuum to suction a bucket off the ground and move it, while another member used a truck’s hydro excavation machinery to jettison water out its side.
A basket used by the department for subterranean work can carry up to 900 pounds. A staff member said the basket comes attached to a truck with a 200-foot cable, but the town’s work only goes to 65 feet.
Inside the building, Utilities Department staff members gave a presentation of
Drive-Thru for Proposed Shenandoah Square Restaurant Approved
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
Leesburg’s Planning Commission on May 15 approved a drive-thru window for a proposed 10,000-square-foot building in the Shenandoah Square Shopping Center along Edwards Ferry Road.
Zoned for commercial uses, the building is approved by-right, but approval for a drive-thru window required a special exception permit. The eating establishment, a fast-food spot whose user is yet to be determined, occupies 5,000 square feet of the building. The drive-thru is located on the building’s east side along the Rt. 15 Bypass.
Deputy Planning Director Brian Boucher said during the May 15 Planning Commission meeting that the town is likely looking at $89,000 in tax revenue from the project. He added that the building is a good distance away from residential uses and is compatible with the Town Plan.
Boucher said the staff recommended three conditions for approval: substantial conformance to the presented plan making sure the building looks like the elevation plans that were submitted, and that there be no waivers for the application.
The commission discussed whether to limit the establishment’s available
hours, but Deputy Town Attorney Christine Newton said that the building’s byright status meant its hours weren’t connected to the drive-thru application.
“If you think there is a particular reason why the addition of the drive-thru necessitates a limitation to the hours, I need you to connect that for the record,” she said.
Applicant and owner Bob Mitchell said if the building ended up being a coffee spot, he would need very early morning hours of use and couldn’t work with limitation.
water main equipment. Graphs on display showed examples of what different types of water leaks look like through spikes on usage readings. Those spikes are tracked through a meter that uses cellular equipment to transmit the usage rates.
The department also prepared a presentation of what sink pipes look like when clogged with grease, food items, and other drain-clogging objects.
One stand at the event had residents take an emergency preparedness quiz, where they had to list up to six items they would need in the event of an emergency. A handout listed several emergency items including food, water, water purification methods, tools, flashlights, a radio, and comfort items.
The town’s Environmental Advisory Commission also had a table to teach kids about proper food disposal.
Learn more about Leesburg’s Utilities Department at leesburgva.gov/departments/utilities-water-and-sewer. n
“I’m fully supportive of this application,” Commissioner Candice Tuck said. “I think it’s a fantastic use of the space. I applaud Mr. Mitchell’s efforts and think that that area needs more revitalization. My only concern with the drive through is its location and proximity to the bypass and the visual aesthetics that’s going to contribute to the already drive through heavy area.”
The Commission voted to recommend approval to the Town Council 5-02, with commissioners Jennifer Canton and Ad Barnes absent. n
Architecture Incorporated
A northwest view of the proposed building in the Shenandoah Shopping Center.
William Timme/Loudoun Now
A vacuum truck is used to pick up a bucket through suction showcasing its abilities to community members during a May 17 Leesburg Utilities Department open house.
Education
Aqua Dragons in Zero Gravity: Hillsboro Teacher Gets Once in A Lifetime Experience
BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org
Hillsboro Charter Academy Dean of Curriculum and STEAM Specialist Megan Tucker got to experience a microgravity flight, flying on a plane 20,000 feet in the air to experience zero gravity.
While on the plane, she also completed experiments with Aqua Dragons, a species of brine shrimp similar to Sea Monkeys, to bring back to her students in the classroom.
The microgravity flight was only part of the experiment, however.
For the past year, Tucker and her students have been designing experiments, creating hypotheses, and learning about how microgravity flights work.
They were able to do this thanks to the grant-funded program Space for Teachers. Tucker was one of eight teachers in the nation selected for this flight, and the only elementary teacher picked. Also on the flight was NASA astronaut and author Catherine Coleman.
Microgravity is the weak gravitational force that astronauts experience in Earth’s orbit. Planes achieve this without leaving the atmosphere by traveling in parabolas, or arches, at high speeds. As the plane goes over the top of the arch, people in the plane experience about 20 seconds of microgravity. For research trips, the plane completes 30 parabolas.
Space for Teachers helps educators create curriculum surrounding microgravity and support teachers in helping their students design the experiments. HCA fourth and fifth graders chose to do theirs on the effects of microgravity on Aqua Dragons.
“I wanted to do something alive, because I have elementary kids and I was the only elementary teacher in this cohort. And so I’m like, ‘What can I bring that’s alive?’ I went through this whole thing of like nothing with vertebrae to well, maybe, if they’re small,” Tucker said.
Aqua Dragons, a company based in Barcelona, Spain, started when the quality of Sea Monkeys declined after the inventor’s death. Aqua Dragons differ because of the minerals used on the eggs, changing how the shrimp grow. The students chose them because research done on three different varieties of brine shrimp showed the
dragons to be the heartiest.
When the company heard that Tucker and her students were using Aqua Dragons for their experiments, they were very excited, Tucker said, sending them tanks and making a documentary, currently in production, about the process.
To find out the effects of microgravity on the dragons, Tucker took some on the flight with her in a special tank designed by her students and built by a school in Minnesota. It was attached to the floor of the plane to keep them from flying around.
Aqua Dragons has a space biologist on staff and Tucker worked with them to find the best way to keep them alive during her microgravity flight as well as her flights to and from Kansas, where the experiment was done. She also kept a vial of dragons in the pocket of her flight suit.
She also brought paper helicopters designed by students she taught during a 10day trip to Nigeria in July, to see how they behaved in reduced gravity. She brought 11 total, and while most floated one, folded like an accordion, performed spirals in microgravity.
The actual experience of microgravity was different than what Tucker originally imagined. She said that she did not experience sickness or feel disoriented; it felt like someone had taken all the pressure off her body, she said.
“It was actually like somebody had
just taken a switch and turned off gravity. I know that’s not real. You can’t do that. But that’s what it felt like,” she said. “The tiniest little touch would send you flying across the airplane. That was very hard to maneuver. I was even flipping and doing things that when people see me on camera, they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh. How did you not get sick?’ It felt like everybody else was upside down. It didn’t feel like I was in microgravity. It just felt like there was no gravity there, if that makes sense. It was a very strange but amazing feeling.”
This is not Tucker’s first brush with space. She previously applied to be an astronaut, and she was part of the group that orchestrated a ham radio call with Suni Williams in December.
The dragons experiencing microgravity also had an interesting experience. Unfortunately for Tucker, the camera in the tank during the flight was not working. However, she said Coleman reminded her that she still had lots of data to work with.
One effect of zero gravity was the dragons’ swimming pattern, usually in all directions through the entire tank, was more uniformly up and down, and they were only swimming the perimeter of the tank. Tucker said this was likely because to the air bubbles that formed in the middle of the tank during the low gravity portions of the flight, as well as centrifugal forces pulling them outward.
Most notably, however, the dragons that came back from the flight were a darker color than they were when they boarded the plane. All of the Earth-bound dragons, hatched on the same day as the ones taken on the flight, retained their color. Tucker’s best guess for this phenomenon is a stress enzyme that changed their color, but there is no definitive answer yet. She said that the Aqua Dragons team is researching it for the documentary.
Tucker said the students were excited about her trip in microgravity. She wears bows every day, and the students put weighted charms on a bow so in the videos they could tell when the microgravity was activated.
“So I had this list of, like, all the things they wanted to see happen for them. I think it becomes more real when it’s a face they know and see every day doing something like this, they all the first question was, did you throw up?” Tucker said.
She also said the students impressed her with their understanding of microgravity and what she was going to do.
“I said, ‘Are you going to go home and say, Miss Tucker went to space?’ And they were like, ‘no. Mrs. Tucker did not go to space. She went to, you know, microgravity environment.’ But that’s something too, that’s proud of them for understanding the difference. Because everybody wants to be in space,” Tucker said.
Tucker said that she was very grateful for this experience, and everything that it taught her. She said that she also had to abide by the growth mindset that the school teaches the students to be able to board the flight and not let her students down.
She is also grateful for Aqua Dragons, Space for Teachers and everyone else that supported her, it was a “collaborative effort,” she said.
“It’s been more than I even expected to come out of this. Like I never thought I’d be bubbling my dragons. And it’s just, you never know where something’s gonna take you, right? And might just say yes. Attitude, I think, is how we got here. And it’s just, it’s amazing. It is amazing. What happens if you just say, yes, it kind of just, or the journey takes you, it has been a journey for sure, of joy and all the feelings,” Tucker said. n
Megan Tucker
Teacher Megan Tucker and colleague hold up the Nigerian flag while doing an experiment designed by Nigerian students they taught last July on a microgravity flight.
2025 Graduation Ceremonies –When and Where
The nearly four-week-long graduation season for Loudoun County Public Schools starts May 27 with ceremonies for graduates at the Academies of Loudoun.
The first ceremony takes place at 7 p.m. at EagleBank Arena on George Mason University’s Fairfax campus.
The school division’s virtual learners will have an online ceremony at 2 p.m. on May 29 online. The North Star School will have its ceremony June 4 at 10 a.m. at its Leesburg campus.
Park View, Broad Run and Riverside high schools will hold ceremonies on June 11. Park View is at 2:30 p.m. and Broad Run is at 7 p.m., both at EagleBank Arena. Riverside’s ceremony will start at 7 p.m. at the school.
On June 12, Potomac Falls, W.O. Robey, John Champe and Lightridge have their ceremonies. At EagleBank Arena, Potomac Falls walks at 2:30 p.m. and John
Champe walks at 7 p.m. Robey students will walk at Dominion High School at 5:30 p.m. and Lightridge students will walk across their own stage at 7 p.m.
Tuscarora High School will host its own ceremony on June 13 at 7 p.m. Also that day, Heritage High School, at 2:30 p.m., and Freedom High School, at 7 p.m., will hold ceremonies at EagleBank Arena.
On June 16, Rock Ridge, at 9 a.m., and Dominion, at 10 a.m., will hold ceremonies at their own schools. Briar Woods students will have their ceremony at EagleBank Arena at 2:30 p.m.
Loudoun Valley High School will hold its ceremony on campus June 17 at 9 a.m.
Woodgrove, Stone Bridge and Loudoun County high schools will all host their ceremonies at 8 a.m. on June 18, with Independence High School graduates capping off the graduations with a ceremony starting at 9 a.m. n
School Administrators Advance Plans for Transition Center
BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org
Plans for a transition center serving students with disabilities in Loudoun County are moving forward with additional details about proposed programs, student capacity, and the implementation schedule provided to the School Board’s Specialized Programs and Centers Committee last week.
The transition center will provide services for disabled students to help them transition out of high school and into a career or university.
According to the presentation, there is less than 60% satisfaction in independent living labs, vocational evaluation and access to skills profiles, according to the 2023-2024 parent survey conducted by LCPS. One of the goals of the program is to address these shortcomings.
“We want it to be something that the entire school division is proud of and can access. And when we toured the facility that had been purchased, we could envision so many things at the same time that this really could be a place where all these goals could be achieved, right here in Loudoun for our students,” Director of Special Education Paige Carter said.
When fully implemented, the center will serve 500 students. The services will supplement the in-school transition programs already offered by the school system at all three school levels.
There is a target of 100 students in the first year, with a goal of full capacity by the fourth year. Staff members also aim to provide 90% of middle school students with disabilities career exploration opportunities through this program.
There will be 10 programs for students.
According to Assistant Superintendent Tedra Richardson, the pathways will focus on helping students live independently, skills for a future career and college readiness.
Goals in this area are to allow 80% of students in the first two years to show proficiency in at least two career and technical education pathways, and 85% of students to complete an industry-recognized certification every year. Staff members also aim for 75% of graduates to either be employed, move on to secondary education opportunities or participate in job opportunities by the third year.
Staffing for the programs will include vocational evaluators, job coaches, special education teachers, and career and technical education staff. There are also plans to create partnerships with local businesses to provide opportunities like internships, shadow programs, and direct employment paths.
Another goal for the program is to achieve at least a 90% overall satisfaction rate in future surveys.
The next steps for this program are to establish a name with the Finance and Operation Committee and get committee approval. n
Public Safety Fallen Officers Honored in Memorial Service
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s office today held a National Police Week memorial service for officers who died while on duty.
Officers honored during the ceremony in the courthouse square in Leesburg included: Virginia Department of Prohibition Enforcement Inspector Jefferson D. Lambert, Middleburg Police Sergeant Henry Milton Seaton, Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles Inspector Thomas Allen Belt, Alexandria Police Corporal Clarence McClary, Loudoun County Deputy Charles Barton, and Loudoun Sheriff ’s Office Crossing Guard Kitty Via. The end of watch dates for the honored officers serving in Loudoun ranged from 1899 to 1996.
“These individuals chose a profession of extraordinary fervor, donning their uniforms daily to protect our families, our neighbors, visitors who come to enjoy all that Loudoun County has to offer,” Sheriff ’s Office Lt. Col. Robert Mosier said. “We rest easier knowing that our law enforcement are sworn to serve and protect. They stand vigilant 24 hours a day 365 days a year.”
Mosier said that in 2024, 147 officers in the U.S. lost their lives in the line of duty, a 25% increase from 118 in 2023. He said most were gunfire and traffic-related causes. As of May, 34 officers have died on-duty this year, he said.
“Your sacrifices are seen, your services are valuable, and your courage inspires
us all with profound admiration,” Mosier said.
As the officers were honored, service members approached a wreath and placed a flag for each of them. The Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department’s Pipes and Drums Department played at the end of the memorial. n
Law Enforcement, The Arc of Loudoun Launch Blue Envelope Program
The county’s law enforcement agencies, with the support of The Arc of Loudoun have launched The Blue Envelope Program, an initiative designed to foster safer and more supportive interactions between officers and individuals with disabilities. The program is specifically designed for people with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral, mental health, and other conditions that may impact communication during highstress situations like traffic stops. Launched last week, the program provides participants with a light blue envelop to store with important documents such as a photocopy of their driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance information and optional communication cards. The envelope serves as a visual cue during a stop that the driver may need additional time, patience or alternative communication methods. It also includes instructions to help guide both the officer and the
driver through the interaction.
“The Blue Envelope Program is a meaningful addition to our ongoing commitment to serve every resident of Loudoun County with understanding and compassion,” Sheriff Mike Chapman stated in an announcement. “This initiative creates a simple yet powerful tool that helps our deputies recognize and appropriately respond to individuals with communication challenges during traffic stops, ultimately enhancing safety for everyone involved.”
The ARC Administrative Director of ALLY Advocacy Center said the program was “vital to our community.”
“The Blue Envelope Program raises awareness and protects the rights of people with disabilities,” she stated. “According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, people with disabilities continue to experience disproportionately higher rates of interaction with the criminal justice system. At The Arc of Loudoun, we
Child on Scooter Fatally Wounded in Crash
State troopers say no charges will be filed following a May 19 crash in Sterling that fatally injured a juvenile riding on a scooter.
According to the report, at approximately 7:30 p.m. Monday, a 13-yearold girl was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the intersection of Nokes Boulevard and City Center Boulevard.
The driver was traveling westbound on Nokes Boulevard in the left lane and stopped at the scene.
The girl was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and later died.
According to the report, the victim was not in a crosswalk and was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Police Seek Suspects in Leesburg Plaza Assault
The Leesburg Police investigators are seeking information about a malicious wounding that occurred early Saturday morning in the parking lot of the Leesburg Plaza shopping center. At 2:18 a.m. May 17, officers responded to a report of a large fight in the parking lot. Upon arrival, they found an adult male unconscious on the ground, suffering from injuries to his head and face. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
advocated to bring this program to our community to enhance the safety of the person with a disability and law enforcement/ first responders. This is a meaningful step toward ensuring that people with disabilities feel safer and more understood during interactions with law enforcement.”
As part of the initiative, law enforcement officers across the county will receive specialized training to recognize the blue envelope and respond appropriately, using techniques rooted in patience, understanding, and respect.
One suspect was described as a heavyset white male wearing a green shirt, blue jeans, and white shoes. Another was described as a white male wearing a blue shirt and khaki shorts.
Leesburg officers, with the assistance of the Sheriff ’s Office and the Virginia State Police, canvassed the area after being advised that the suspects fled the scene on foot. They were not located.
Investigators confirmed that multiple individuals were involved in the assault and know that several witnesses were present at the time of the incident.
Anyone in the area who may have seen anything or has any information is asked to contact
The Blue Envelope Program is a voluntary initiative. No registration or documentation is required to obtain an envelope which are available free of charge at LCSO headquarters, all LCSO stations, the Leesburg Police Department, Middleburg Police Department, Purcellville Police Department, and The Arc of Loudoun. n SAFETY BRIEFS continues on page 13
William Timme/ Loudoun Now
Officers who passed away on-duty were honored during a wreath ceremony at the Peace Officers Memorial on the Loudoun County Courthouse lawn on May 15.
Nabbed Gift Card Scammer Sentenced to Time Served
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
A Chinese national convicted of a gift card scam and suspected of stealing over $700,000 from 75 victims was sentenced last week to suspended 12 months in jail and released with time served.
Wencai Zhuang, 29, pleaded guilty to a single charge of obtaining money by false pretenses, greater than $1,000. That charge stems from a Dec. 24, 2024, incident when a Loudoun resident received a phone call with the calling party claiming to be an engineer with Peacock, a streaming service. The caller provided false information about the man saying his account was hacked and
Safety Briefs
continued from page 12
the LPD’s Criminal Investigations Division at 703-771-4500 or submit a tip anonymously at 703-443-8477 or policeinvestigation@LeesburgVA.gov.
Teen Arrested for Shoplifting, Carrying Firearm
Leesburg Police officers last week arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with a retail theft at the Wegmans store.
At approximately noon May 14, officers responded to a report of a person who was wearing what appeared to be a firearm in a holster on his hip shoplifting from the store. Officers located the suspect outside of the store with the stolen merchandise and determined he was a juvenile and was carrying a weapon that appeared to be real. It was later determined to be a Beretta BB gun designed to closely resemble a semi-automatic firearm, according to the report.
The suspect was taken into custody without incident, and transported to the Loudoun County Juvenile Detention Center. He has been charged with retail theft and possession of a firearm under the age of 18.
No injuries were reported.
In the announcement of the arrest, the Leesburg Police Department urged parents to speak with their children about
that he was vulnerable to electronic attack, according to evidence in the case.
The caller coerced the man into sending him approximately $4,500 in gift cards to fix the account. Those gift cards were redeemed at a store in Salem, New Hampshire, and were used to purchase numerous Apple products. Zhuang was identified through surveillance footage as the person using the gift cards.
Investigators located him in Fairfax with a large number of Apple products in his vehicle. In a subsequent interview, Zhuang provided information about purchasing gift cards at a heavily discounted price, being instructed to purchase Apple products and shipping those to China for profit.
In April, Zhuang pled guilty to the charge.
the dangers and consequences of carrying weapons—real or replica—in public spaces.
“Realistic-looking BB guns can cause public alarm, trigger emergency law enforcement responses, and lead to serious legal consequences,” according to the statement.
Suspects Sought in Armed Robbery at Leesburg Sheetz
The Leesburg Police Department is investigating an armed robbery that occurred early Sunday morning at the Sheetz store on California Drive.
At approximately 1:10 a.m. May 18, two suspects entered the store, displayed weapons, and demanded money from store employees. They fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash and items. Both suspects were wearing dark colored clothing and masks at the time of the robbery.
No injuries were reported.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 703-771-4500 or submit a tip anonymously to 703-443-TIPS (8477) PoliceInvestigations@LeesburgVA.gov.
Suspected DWI Driver Strikes Juvenile in Leesburg
An Ashburn driver faces a DWI charge after he allegedly struck a juvenile
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office said in a May 16 announcement that a collaborative investigation between multiple agencies including Homeland Security Investigations and retail partners has tied Zhuang to over $700,000 in fraudulent gift card redemptions and 75 victims between August 2024 and January 2025.
Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Tom Julia said there would be more charges to come in other jurisdictions.
“Criminals using the gift card scam continue to prey on some of our most vulnerable citizens,” Sheriff Mike Chapman stated in the announcement. “Thanks to the diligent work of the LCSO and the Loudoun County
Commonwealth’s Attorney, in coordination with our law enforcement and private sector partners, we were able to hold this criminal accountable and send a message to others like him.”
Federal authorities and the Loudoun County Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney are working to liquidate seized assets and provide restitution to the Loudoun victim.
“We’re really trying to push that these scams are proliferating,” Julia said. “They often prey on elderly people but not always.”
The LCSO reminds residents to be cautious of anyone requesting payment via gift cards, especially from unsolicited calls or messages. Report any suspicious activity to 703-771-1021. n
riding a scooter in Leesburg last week.
According to Leesburg Police, Victor Canchola, 63, was driving on Plaza Street at 4:30 p.m. May 15 when he struck the youth. A police officer saw the victim fall in the roadway and provided assistance. The juvenile was transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries described as minor.
Canchola remained on scene and was detained by officers. During the investigation, it was determined that he was under the influence of alcohol. After his arrest he experienced a medical emergency and also was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
He is charged with driving while intoxicated and driving on a suspended license.
LCSO Asks for Information Related to Teacher’s Arrest
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information from the public related to the arrest of Nicolas Martin Zimmerman, a former teacher at St. Veronica’s Catholic School in Chantilly. Zimmerman, 35, of Chantilly, taught at the school from August 2015 through February 2025. He was arrested April 7 and was charged with two counts of felony electronic solicitation, nine counts of felony possession of child pornography, and one count of felony indecent liberties. Zimmerman was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention
Center.
The LCSO Special Victims Unit believes there may be additional victims connected to the case and is seeking the community’s assistance. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Rawlings at 703-777-1021 or allison. rawlings@loudoun.gov. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are asked to call Loudoun County Crime Solvers at 703777-1919 or submit a tip through the LCSO app.
Cyclist Struck by Driver
The Leesburg Police Department is investigating a hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist that occurred Friday night on Catoctin Circle.
According to the report, officers responded to the intersection of Industrial Court and Catoctin Circle just before 10:30 p.m. for a report of a bicyclist struck by a vehicle. They found a woman who sustained injuries in the collision. She was taken to a hospital for treatment.
The driver of the vehicle, described as a newer model gray compact SUV, did not stop.
Officers are working to identify the driver and locate the suspect vehicle.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist in the investigation is encouraged to contact the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500 or submit a tip anonymously at 703-443-TIPS (8477) / policeinvestigations@LeesburgVA.gov. n
Nonprofits 100WomenStrong Awards $646K, Surpassing $5M in Giving
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
100Womenstrong last week awarded $646,600 to 48 nonprofits helping to address needs in shelter, health, mental health, hunger and education in Loudoun County.
The giving circle was formed in 2008 by Karen Schaufeld and 12 other founding members and awarded its first two grants in 2009, totaling $28,600.
With this year’s awards, 100Womenstrong surpassed $5.3 million in total giving.
“I can tell you when that first group of 12 individuals back in December of 2008 first got together, we had no idea that we could accomplish this,” Schaufeld said. “I am so grateful for all of our now 78 members.”
Schaufeld highlighted the critical safety net the county’s nonprofits provide as well as the value of their experienced leadership and commitment to collaboration.
“Many of you were integral to shepherding your organizations through the very difficult COVID years. You’re seasoned veterans of the challenges brought
by uncertain times. We’re again in uncertain times, and we hope these uncertain days quickly come to an end—in a good way,” she said. “But we want to be able to support your work as times become even
more challenging. So, if that time comes, much like we were there during COVID, please reach out to us because we want our Loudoun County nonprofits to grow and to thrive. We want to hear how we can
best help.”
“You have this collective leadership
100WOMENSTRONG continues on page 15
JK Community Farms Kicks off Growing Season with 50K Seedlings
BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org
JK Community Farm’s annual PlantA-Thon kicked off the growing season by partnering with volunteers and nonprofits to plant over 50,000 seedlings last Friday and Saturday.
The event sees teams from companies and nonprofits as well as individual volunteers—more than 400 people in total—donate their time to support the nonprofit’s mission to combat food insecurity.
JK Community Farms donates 100% of its yield of produce and proteins to food pantries throughout the region, including Loudoun Hunger relief and other nonprofit partners such as Food for Others, Arlington Food Assistance Center, and DC Central Kitchen.
Since JK Community Farms started in 2018, the organization has donated 250,868 meals, grown 313,585 pounds of food for local food pantries and hosted 7,322 volunteers for planting and harvesting.
Executive Director Samantha Kuhn said the farm selects its produce varieties based on the desires of the families at those
food pantries.
A group today comprising Pathways Homes and other volunteers planted 1,700 seedlings. Kuhn said that two hours of work alone would yield 13,800 pounds of food.
“This is a great opportunity to be here with JK Farms because we’re all a part of an ecosystem, right?” Pathways Homes President Sylisa Lambert-Woodard said.
Pathways Homes is a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals marginalized by poverty and those with mental health issues acquire housing.
“So many of the individuals that we serve – because the average income that they make is about $780 a month – many of these individuals are food insecure,” Lambert-Woodard said. “Being able to connect with the farms to help us develop our own food bank and food pantry … it’s a great way of just interfacing with one another, and each one of us helping each one of us to be able to address the unmet needs in the community.”
The JK Community Farm is located at 35516 Paxson Road near Round Hill. Learn more at jkcommunityfarm.org. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Members of 100WomenStrong pose with representatives of 48 nonprofits that received grants totaling $646,600 for 2025.
William Timme/ Loudoun Now
Pathways Homes President Sylisa Lambert-Woodard planting seedlings during the JK Community Farms Plant-A-Thon.
Marshall Joins Wellness Loudoun as Executive Director
Jennifer Marshall is the first executive director of Wellness Loudoun, a new mental health nonprofit.
An outgrowth of Crossroads United Methodist Church in Ashburn Farm, Wellness Loudoun believes mental wellness begins with connection and community. It plans an official launch event in October.
Marshall brings to the position over a decade of experience in community outreach, program development, and storytelling for mental health awareness.
“Wellness Loudoun exists to save lives and restore hope by providing a safe and welcoming environment for mental, physical, and emotional well-being,” Marshall stated. “I’m honored to lead this mission and to help create a Loudoun County where no one
100WomenStrong
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that’s so important. I will say this: Working together as nonprofits and collaborating is more important now than ever,” Schaufeld said.
This year, members voted to prioritize shelter as the greatest need, allocating $214,500 to 14 nonprofits addressing that need. Additional funding included $178,000 to 11 health-focused organizations; $105,100 to nine education-related groups; $78,500 to seven hunger relief efforts; and $70,500 to seven nonprofits providing mental health services.
Based on the applications, this year’s grants are expected to benefit more than 24,000 Loudoun residents.
2025 grant recipient are:
* A Place To Be - $12,000
* All Ages Read Together - $25,000
* Boulder Crest Foundation - $7,000
struggles alone—and everyone has the support they need to heal and thrive.”
The organization has begun launching a range of free and low-cost programs for individuals and families seeking support. While currently holding events at Crossroads, it plans to construct an adjacent 5,000-square-foot center.
“This initiative started with a dream for our community,” Board Chair Tim Ward stated. “We are so excited to have Jennifer on board and know that her lived experience, leadership skills and passion for mental health advocacy are exactly what Wellness Loudoun needs to grow into a trusted community resource.”
Initial programs include:
Bridging the Gap, a peer mentor program offering connection and support during the wait for professional care; Support groups for depression and bipolar, anxiety, and grief;
Expressive arts classes promoting creative expression for emotional healing;
Wellness hikes promoting movement and mindfulness in nature;
Sound bath healing, guided relaxation and stress reduction; and
Counseling services for individuals and families.
Learn more at wellnessloudoun.org. n
* BRAWS - $15,000
* Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington - $ 14,000
* Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties - $10,000
* Crossroads Jobs - $10,000
* Dulles South Food Pantry - $12,800
* Dulles South Neighborhood Closet$2,000
* Dulles South Soup Kitchen - $7,500
* ECHO - Every Citizen Has Opportunities
- $12,500
* Food for Neighbors - $15,000
* Friends of Loudoun Mental Health$12,000
* HealthWorks for Northern Virginia$20,000
* Inova Health Foundation - $15,000
* Insight Memory Care - $10,000
* Just Neighbors - $15,000
* LAWS Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services- $20,000
* Legacy Farms - $12,500
* Leonard W. Kidd Memorial American
Rotary Club Raises Over $20K at Wine and Crime Event
The Rotary Club of Dulles International Airport raised over $20,000 in support of youth scholarships and holiday outreach programs during its eighth annual Wine and Crime Dinner.
The event, held at Casanel Vineyards and Winery near Leesburg on April 26, encouraged participants to become detectives for the night, teaming up to solve the mystery titled, “Who Killed Auntie Agatha?” The immersive experience featured Rotary members portraying suspects, bringing the theatrical crime scene to life.
“This event continues to be one of our most cherished traditions,” Rotary Club President Tony Denk stated in an announcement. “It’s not just about the entertainment and fantastic food, it’s about
Legion Post 2001 - $10,500
* Loudoun Cares - $20,000
* Loudoun Club 12 - $15,000
* Loudoun County Community Veterans Engagement Board - $5,000
* Loudoun Education Foundation$16,000
* Loudoun Free Clinic - $25,000
* Loudoun Hunger Relief - $15,000
* Loudoun Serenity House - $20,000
* Loudoun Volunteer Caregivers - $24,500
* Love, KK - $4,200
* Mobile Hope - $20,000
* Morven Park, Inc - $5,600
* Northern Virginia Family Service$10,500
* NOVA Diaper Bank - $6,000
* OAR NOVA - $12,500
* Ryan Bartel Foundation - $11,000
* Seven Loaves Services – $14,000
* Shelter House Inc. - $20,000
* St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church - $20,000
* The Arc of Loudoun - $20,000
* The Chris Atwood Foundation - $6,000
coming together as a community to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and families in need.”
Proceeds from Wine and Crime support two of the club’s cornerstone initiatives – the LeRoy Collins Memorial Scholarship Program and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 69 “Cops and Kids” holiday shopping event.
The scholarship program awards funds to local high school students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to community service, and the shopping event pairs children in need with local law enforcement for a holiday shopping spree.
Learn more at dullesairportrotary.org. n
* The Family One - $4,000
* The Fenwick Foundation $15,000
* The Salvation Army of Loudoun - $10,000
* True Ground Housing Partners - $15,000
* Virginia Hunters Who Care, Inc.$10,000
* Windy Hill Foundation, Inc. - $10,500
* Women Giving Back - $25,000
* Youth for Tomorrow - $9,000
100WomenStrong is a component fund of the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties. Membership is capped at 100 to preserve the group’s collaborative spirit. Eligibility for membership includes the ability to make an annual contribution of $10,000. Both individual and corporate memberships are welcomed, and donations are tax deductible.
Learn more at onehundredwomenstrong.org. n
Marshall
Contributed
The Rotary Club of Dulles International Airport raised over $20,000 in support of youth scholarships and holiday outreach programs during its eighth annual Wine and Crime Dinner April 26.
Elections Office Certifies Purcellville Recall Petition Signatures
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
The Office of Elections has certified signatures in a recall petition submitted last month seeking to remove Purcellville’s mayor, vice mayor and two council members from office.
According to court documents, 1,211 signatures were included in the petition to remove Mayor Christopher Bertaut. Of those, 25 were deemed invalid and 1,186 were verified. The number of signatures required for a petition to be certified was 494.
For Vice Mayor Ben Nett, 1,214 signa-
tures were included in the petition. Thirty-seven of those were found to be invalid, bringing the total number of signatures verified to 1,177. The number required to submit the petition was 434
The petition for Councilmember Carol Luke included 1,197 signatures, 28 of which were found to be invalid. The total number of verified signatures for Luke is 1,169. The number required to submit the petition was 434.
For Councilmember Susan Khalil, 1,203 signatures were submitted, with 32 found to be invalid. The total number of verified signatures is 1,171 while the required amount was 434.
While certifying the signatures, the Elections Office noted come concerns with some pages of the filings.
“In our review, we found on 36 of the 117 petition pages submitted that the notary had written their name instead of the name of the petition circulator and of those on 1 petition page the signature of the circulator is missing. Thirty-five of the petition pages contain 348 valid signatures and 1 petition page contains 15 valid signatures (included in the 1177 valid signatures listed above). An additional petition page is missing the full name of the petition circulator. This page contains 15 valid signatures (included in the 1177
valid signatures),” according to the court documents signed by General Registrar Judy Brown regarding the petition submitted for Nett.
Similar comments were included for all four of the petitions.
Resident Brian Morgan, who submitted the petitions, said he will present evidence to Stafford Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric Olsen, who has been appointed as a special prosecutor in the case.
“They will then look at it all and then make determination to see if a trial is warranted,” Morgan said.
If Olsen’s office decides a trial is warranted, a trial date will be set. n
Two Paths Forward: Purcellville Council Considers Alternate Utility Rate Strategies
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
Purcellville residents last week were presented with two alternative strategies to managing the town’s utility rates and debt service – one by Mayor Christopher Bertaut and a second by Councilmember Erin Rayner.
The proposals come six weeks ahead of the end of the fiscal year when the council must have a new budget in place – or no appropriations will have been made for any of the town’s expenses. Virginia Municipal League Director of Fiscal Policy Joe Flores said based on requirements laid out in Virginia State Code, if a town does not adopt a budget, “it would seem to call into question the ability to pay expenditures.”
Councilmembers have found little consensus since their budget review began March 19 and some meetings have been cancelled following disagreements on whether Vice Mayor Ben Nett would be allowed to participate in the discussions and due to lack of quorum. Loudoun Commonwealth’s Attorney Bob Anderson issued an advisory opinion stating that Nett should refrain from the talks since he is being investigated by the Virginia State Police following conflict of interest concerns raised by residents regarding his work as town police officer and vice mayor.
Bertaut said he would postpone any budget talks until the issue was resolved. Nett attended Tuesday night’s meeting but no public comments were made from the Mayor or Nett regarding his ability to participate.
Bertaut, along with three other councilmembers have pushed for lower utility rates, saying the $600 to $700 bi-monthly bills cited by some residents are unsustainable.
Rayner, along with two other councilmembers, have said the high rates are less than ideal, but are necessary to cover the costs of operating the systems amid increasing debt payments due for past infrastructure improvements.
Councilmember Susan Khalil last month proposed eliminating the town’s Police Department, which Bertaut said would save the town $3.2 million annually. However, public outrage ultimately led to the council deciding to fully fund the department in FY 2026.
During the May 13 meeting, Bertaut said he based his budget strategy on several goals, including adopting a balanced budget, providing utility rate relief, leveling taxes and providing stability in the utility reserve funds.
To accomplish that, Bertaut said his strategy would include an equalized real estate tax rate, adopted by the Town Council in March amid confusion over whether the 4-3 vote met requirements in State Code stating, “in towns, no tax shall be imposed except by a two-thirds vote of the council members.”
Lowering the rate to 19.2 cents per $100 of assessed value from 20.5 cents proposed in Town Manager Kwasi Fraser’s draft budget would cost $278,686, Bertaut said. In addition, Bertaut recommends
increasing the merit-based staff raises from 1-3% to 1-5% which he said would cost an additional $172,970.
Bertaut proposed rescinding a motion made in April that would transfer 100% of the meals tax revenues from the General Fund to the utility funds and instead transfer only 83.6% of the revenues.
His proposal to rescind the prior transfer passed unanimously, however the vote to transfer 83.6% of revenues passed on a 4-3 vote with Rayner and councilmembers Caleb Stought and Kevin Wright opposed. Those changes leave the council needing to find an additional $1.6 million of cuts in the budget, according to Bertaut. The meals tax transfer would be used in part to offset a decrease in revenue from reducing water and sewer rates by 9% and 11%, a change adopted by the council majority last month. That is expected to result in a revenue reduction of $668,500.
The rest of the $1.2 million transfer would be used to replenish the water reserves to 75% of the town’s fiscal policy and to increase the range of staff merit-based raises to 1-5%.
Director of Finance Liz Krens said she would need more time to review the proposal because her numbers were not adding up the same way Bertaut’s were.
Rayner opposed transferring the meals tax revenue based on advice from the town’s utility and financial advisors recommending against shifting money from the General Fund to the utility funds without a long-term plan. The utility
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now
Purcellville Councilmember Erin Rayner, left, and Mayor Christopher Bertaut, right, presented alternative budget strategies for the council to pursue during a May 13 meeting.
Middleburg Council Objects to Purcellville Budget Reference
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
The Middleburg Town Council last week raised concerns about a comment regarding its budget made by a Purcellville Town Council member during Tuesday night’s meeting.
During budget discussions and speaking on the need to make cuts to her own town’s spending, Councilmember Susan Khalil said, “I don’t know about you all, but it’s on the news 24/7 about how cuts have to happen in every town and state. Middleburg couldn’t fill two policemen. They decided to not do that because they had to keep the budget down.”
A May 14 email from Middleburg Mayor Bridge Littleton said the statement was “inaccurate and misleading.”
“This statement suggests that the Town of Middleburg had 2 officer position that are being cut because of budget issues. I have received several outreaches from citizens of both Purcellville and Middleburg asking about our police cuts, with several saying that we are putting public safety in jeopardy by reducing our force. Nothing is further from the truth,” according to the email.
Littleton said the two officer positions referenced by Khalil were never funded in the first place. The council
originally considered funding two new positions in the department to increase flexibility and reduce use of part time officers.
“The town takes public safety very seriously,” Littleton stated. “We are committed to the safety and protection of our residents, businesses, and visitors through sustained investment in our Police. In the last 5 years we have increased annual investment in our Police by nearly 40%.”
Littleton said the town has continued to expand its police force, implement new pay scales and invest in a take-home cruiser program for the officers.
“Budget sessions are difficult, and hard choices always need to be made, and we all look to other jurisdictions for approaches, ideas, and solutions, but we hope going forward this will be done on accurate information. Misrepresentations of facts does not serve our governments nor citizens alike and only creates confusion and distrust in government,” he stated.
Khalil’s statements were made as the Purcellville Town Council considers the best path forward for fiscal year 2026. During that same meeting, two potential opposing paths forward were presented by Mayor Christopher Bertaut and Councilmember Erin Rayner. n
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now
From right: Purcellville councilmembers Susan Khalil and Carol Luke and Mayor Christopher Bertuat listen to residents speak in defense of the town’s Police Department April 22.
Purcellville Planning Commission to Review Main Street Program
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
The Purcellville Planning Commission will review the town’s involvement with the Virginia Main Street program and make recommendations about next steps as the Town Council remains divided over whether to move forward with the initiative.
The Town Council last year adopted a resolution of support necessary for residents and business owners to join the statewide program designed to help towns facilitate economic growth and sustainability in their downtown areas by preserving their unique characteristics.
VMS representatives have held several meetings with community members and town staff to launch the program and town residents have created a 501(c)3 nonprofit to continue that effort. VMS offers a range of services, grants and training resources for communities to use when revitalizing their economies. Leesburg also entered the Main Street program by supporting the launch of the nonprofit Leesburg Movement organization.
But as the Town Council has worked through the proposed fiscal year 2026
budget, members have raised concerns that being a part of the program would require financial commitments from the town.
During a March 12 community meeting, VMS Program Administrator Blaire Buergler said no monetary commitment from the town would be required.
During the May 13 Town Council meeting, Councilmember Susan Khalil said the program was redundant of the work already becoming accomplished by the town’s commissions and boards and staff.
“It is not wise for us to create another silo that separates the efforts of our limited human resources,” she said. “Now is not the time to separate efforts. With all of the passion that has been recently demonstrated by our residents and business owners, the time is ripe for boosting up the committees we already have in place and utilizing the resources we have spent time and tax dollars cultivating.”
Town residents spoke in favor of the program, saying it would benefit businesses and, in turn, the town.
“All of the volunteers that have committed to Main Street have done so with the intent of revitalization,” Amanda Dayton said.
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Dayton, who serves on the town’s Economic Advisory Council, said the two groups have been working together to create and distribute surveys questioning what residents envision for the future of 21st Street.
“This survey was completed using volunteers and no town resources. A similar survey completed through the town would likely cost thousands,” she said. “Purcellville Main Street is its own entity and does not belong to the town. It is our wish to continue that collaborative relationship with the town. We have included a board member position in our bylaws that is set aside for a town employee so that we can safeguard that collaboration for years to come.”
Dayton said the group would not be asking for the town’s financial support.
Councilmember Erin Rayner said being a part of VMS does not create redundancy but provides more services for local businesses to thrive.
“It’s adding more community. It’s actual availability and for us to get grants to invest in the town,” she said.
Councilmember Carol Luke said she liked to see revitalized businesses in downtown and pointed to several that have successfully completed projects, adding that
they did so without VMS support.
“Businesses like Bia Kitchen, Catoctin Distillery and Enhanced Beauty have done an amazing job bringing new life into an area through thoughtful renovations and investments. Their efforts show what’s possible when business owners are committed to preserving and enhancing our small town charm and character. Nothing precludes other businesses from doing the same,” she said.
Dayton, who owns Enhanced Beauty, said she had to sell 49% of her business to afford the renovations needed by the building along Main Street.
Mayor Christopher Bertaut said, while he believes there are merits to VMS, he is concerned about transparency surrounding the 501(c)3.
“We have a private 501(c)3 who is steering all the efforts on this and I think that the best way to interject some transparency into this group, would be to send it down to the Planning Commission to see what their recommendations are,” he said.
School Journalism Awards
Good luck to all the participating students and teachers on May 28!
That motion, made by Councilmember Caleb Stought passed 4-2-1 with Luke and Khalil opposed and Vice Mayor Ben Nett, who serves as the council liaison to the EDAC, abstaining. n
Mayfest in Lovettsville
Utility Rates
continued from page 16
funds need to ultimately be self-sustaining, they said.
Rayner said the council would not be able to find $1.6 million in General Fund reductions, citing prior staffing reports that indicate the town is understaffed –not overstaffed. Instead, the town needs to charge residents the cost of providing service, she said.
At the current utility rates, the town is losing $17.91 for every 1,000 gallons of water and sewer used, she said.
In addition to that, Rayner said the town needs to focus on potential avenues for increased revenue such as economic development. She also proposed using some General Fund savings for capital projects or to stand up a relief program for residents who can’t afford their bills.
Stought said if the town pursued Bertaut’s proposal, it would only be pushing off the problem for a few years. Referencing models by Stantec, the town’s utility advisor, Stought said if rate increases held at zero for a few years, double-digit annual increases would be required by FY 2028.
“We can’t just talk about what works this year. We can’t just talk about what works for the next few years. We have to look further than that, because kicking the can down the road by saying, ‘oh, we won’t raise rates this year because we have meals tax money. We have General Fund reserves.’ General Fund reserves aren’t going to last forever, especially if you don’t have a means to replenish them,” he said.
Bertaut said the General Fund reserves were sufficient to last through FY 2028.
“This plan is solid, stable and predictable for three years,” he said.
Khalil said everyone needs to make cuts and if utility rates continue to increase, the town would lose residents.
“We have to kind of manipulate things a little bit and figure out, how can we reach a good structure that will be sustaining
over the years to where we aren’t picking money out of reserves year after year after year,” she said. “No, that’s not good. I don’t agree with that either. But do I agree that cuts have to be made when times are tough? Yes, I do, and I’m for that. It’s happening all over and for us to think that cuts don’t have to take place here in Purcellville, you’re living in a dream world. Everybody has to, not pay the price, but everybody has to chip in and do their part in order to get our town financially stable for not just this year, but for these years to come.”
Bertaut proposed directing Fraser to find $1.6 million of cuts in the draft budget. That motion passed 4-3 with Rayner, Wright and Stought saying it was the council’s job, not the Town Manger’s to balance the budget.
“We’re walking backwards,” Stought said. “We’re starting with conclusions and working backwards to action. The conclusion is we will achieve $1.6 million worth of cuts to our General Fund budget. That’s the conclusion we’re starting with. And now, not only have we not provided steps to get there, we’re going to pawn it off on someone else who already brought us a budget two months ago. There is not $1.6 million worth of fat to trim in this budget.”
“That is the challenge that I’m putting forward to the town manager,” Bertaut said. “If he can come with a solution that is sustainable, wonderful. If he cannot, then he’ll back to us with something in between.”
Fraser said he and the finance team had presented a draft budget two months ago and that they were waiting for council direction.
“We presented that budget to you, and now it’s your direction to say, ‘yay or nay’ or somehow come to agreement as to what the delta or changes in that budget should be,” he said.
The Town Council is expected to hear from Fraser on potential cuts during its May 27 work session. n
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Creating a Stylish, Functional Backyard Retreat
As more homeowners look to expand their living areas beyond the walls of their houses, designing a functional and inviting outdoor living space has become a top priority. Whether you’re working with a spacious backyard or a compact patio, smart planning can transform your outdoor area into a personal retreat or an ideal spot for entertaining.
Before purchasing furniture or planting flowers, experts recommend defining how you want to use the space. Think about whether the area will be used for dining, lounging, cooking, or other pursuits. Creating separate zones for different activities—such as a dining area, a lounge space, and a fire pit corner—adds structure and enhances flow. Rugs, planters, and outdoor lighting can help visually define each area without the need for walls.
Outdoor furniture should be both weather-resistant and comfortable. Materials like teak, aluminum, and all-weather wicker are popular
choices. Add cushions with fade- and moisture-resistant fabrics for comfort and style.
Adding pergolas, umbrellas, or shade sails makes your space more usable during hot or rainy weather.
Strategic lighting can extend the use of your outdoor space well into the evening. Use a mix of string lights, lanterns, and solar path lights to create warmth and visibility.
Incorporate a mix of plants, raised garden beds, or vertical gardens to bring color and life to your space. Native and low-maintenance plants are a great choice for eco-conscious designs.
Consider creating a focal point for your outdoor space. A fire pit, a water feature, or a bold piece of art can help anchor your design and add personality.
With thoughtful planning and a few key upgrades, your outdoor living space can become a favorite part of your home—perfect for relaxing, hosting, or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars. n
Spring Plants to Brighten Your Backyard
With spring in full bloom, it’s the perfect time for homeowners and garden enthusiasts to breathe new life into their backyards. Adding the right mix of plants not only enhances curb appeal but also creates a vibrant, welcoming outdoor space. Spring is ideal for planting because of milder temperatures and ample rainfall, which help young plants take root and thrive.
Here are some of the best spring plants to consider for a stunning and colorful backyard:
Tulips and Daffodils: These spring staples are known for their bright colors and classic look. Although the bulbs typically are planted in the fall, pre-potted versions are available at garden centers in spring and can be transplanted into garden beds or containers.
Hydrangeas: With their large, colorful blooms and easy maintenance, hydrangeas are a favorite choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. They do well in partial sun and come in
a variety of shades from pink to blue, depending on soil pH.
Lavender: Lavender not only adds a pop of purple but also brings a calming scent to your backyard. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Salvia: The hardy perennial is known for its tall flower spikes and long blooming season. Available in blues, purples, and pinks, salvia is drought-tolerant and a favorite among hummingbirds.
Coneflowers (Echinacea): Native to North America and incredibly resilient, their daisy-like blooms are perfect for creating a natural, meadow-like look and are loved by pollinators.
Hostas: For shaded areas, hostas are a low-maintenance favorite. Known for their lush foliage, they come in various green tones and leaf shapes, adding texture to garden beds.
Peonies: With their big, fragrant
SPRING PLANTS continues on page 23
Spring Plants
continued from page 22
blooms, peonies are a showstopper in any garden. Although they require some patience to establish, they can live and bloom for decades once settled.
Ornamental Grasses: To add movement and texture, many homeowners are incorporating ornamental grasses like feather reed grass or fountain grass. They’re low-maintenance and provide visual interest year-round. n
LIVE MUSIC
RICHARD WALTON
4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22
Marie de la Fleur, 19375 Magnolia Grove Square, Lansdowne. fleurdecuisine.com
JUSTIN SUEDE
6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 22
Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com
TOMMY BOUCH
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 23
Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com
NATHANIEL DAVIS
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 23 Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com
PAUL BARRIOS
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 23
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
DAVE MININBERG
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 23
Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.colm
KATE MACLEOD DUO
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 23 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com
RICHARD WALTON
5 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 23
Bluemont Station Brewery & Winery, 18301 Whitehall Estate Lane, Bluemont. bluemontstation.com
MELANIE PEARL
6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 23 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
JOEY HAFNER
6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 23 Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
HILARY VELTRI
6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 23
Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com
LIVE MUSIC continues on page 25
Gary Smallwood: Beyond the Road to Rock Stardom
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
Gary Smallwood’s journey to become a cornerstone of Loudoun’s music scene started when he, as a 15-year-old, saw the 1973 rockumentary “A Film About Jimi Hendrix.”
It was his “I want to do that” moment. He has been doing it ever since.
Smallwood grew up in Middleburg, the son of a town cop father and banker mother. His introduction to music, like most kids, came in the fourth grade when it was time to pick an instrument to play in the school band. With no room for another saxophone player, Smallwood picked drums.
“I started on drums. I played all through high school, marching band, all that good stuff, in addition to playing football and running track,” Smallwood said.
At age 13, he and two classmates decided to start a band. The first challenge was that all three played drums. The best drummer in the group got to stay in that role. The other member picked guitar. “So, I started on bass,” he said.
He doesn’t remember if the band had a name. “It was making noise in the garage.”
After discovering Hendrix, he soon switched to guitar.
By the time he was 16, he was good enough to land a spot with one of the most popular local bands.
“They did field parties and all that stuff. We played all those all the time,” Smallwood said. “Their guitar player quit and my friend Steve Scott, who was way older than me—I call him Pops—said, ‘Man, we, we need a guitar player. Can you come over?’”
“I thought I was joining the Rolling Stones. It was so cool,” he said.
Through the ’80s and ’90s, Smallwood played with other popular local bands including Radio Flash Cab and Genghis Angus. Genghis Angus broke out of the local scene to tour nationally and record an album with John Mellencamp guitarist Mike Wanchic.
He began to slow down in 2000 with more solo shows.
For much of that time, besides field parties, live music was played at a handful of venues—the Leesburg fire hall, Club 88, the Red Horse Tavern and Spanky’s Shenanigans chief among them. “I lived at Spanky’s. I could have had a room upstairs, if they had one, as much as I played there. Loved to play there,” Smallwood said.
That’s a far cry from today’s opportunities for musicians, with wineries and breweries offering scores of stages for
performers.
“Thank goodness for wineries, because it keeps me out of the bar scene. I wanted to get out of the bar scene really bad and the wineries really helped that. Now they’ve got breweries popping up,” Smallwood said. “It’s like you can play in the daytime and get home in the evening. I’m in bed by 10.”
The winery sets allow him to play his favorites and also perform original music.
But another significant shift in the local music scene is the popularity of tribute bands. It’s a niche where Smallwood also is finding success.
“It’s really backwards. If you’re an original band, it’s really hard to break into stuff. If you went to [a venue] and said look, I’ve got an original band, they’ll go nah. You say I have a cover band, I’ve got a tribute band, they’ll say let’s talk. It’s kind of that level,” he said.
Smallwood has had success with a Beatles tribute band, with Cal Everett, Chuck Sullivan and Tom Lofgren, and sometimes Todd Wright. “It’s kind of a cool little thing. We just did the Hamilton [in Washington, DC] when we played the Revolver album in its entirety.”
He’s also played the Warner Theater as part of a Tom Petty tribute.
This weekend, he’ll launch a new cover band show with Michael Fath, a versatile rock guitarist who has more recently featured his work on mandolin.
The duo, ARC—American Rock Clas-
sics—debuts Sunday, May 25 at Jammin’ Java. “It’s all covers, but covers you’re going to hear it and go, oh man, I forgot about that,” he said. The set includes work by Crosby, Stills and Nash; Simon and Garfunkel; and Seals and Croft, among others.
And there might be an opportunity build a band that features the work of one his heroes—Eric Clapton.
“My big two influences are Hendrix and Clapton. I grew up listening to Clapton. I call him my dad,” he said. “They say, Man, you sound just like Clapton.”
After more than five decades on stage, Smallwood is in a good space musically.
“When I was 13, I thought I’m going to be a rock star. And I get to 17, I’m playing with a pretty popular local band and it’s like I’m going to be a rock star when I get out of high school,” Smallwood said. “I told myself if I don’t make it by the time I’m 25, I’m quitting.”
“I don’t want to be rock star nowadays. I’m happy doing exactly what I’m doing, and I can play when I want to play. People call me instead of me calling them now. I’m in a good place.”
Learn more at garysmallwood.com. Check out his original music at soundcloud.com/garysmallwood.
The ARC duo makes its debut at Jamin’ Java during a 6 p.m. show on May 25. For tickets, go to unionstagepresents.com/jammin-java. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Gary Smallwood performs during a recent show at the Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival.
GET OUT LIVE MUSIC
continued from page 24
TEJAS SINGH
7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 23
Social House Kitchen & Tap, 25370 Eastern Marketplace Plaza, South Riding. socialhouseva.com
LEXA NOELLE DUO
7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 23
Social House Kitchen & Tap, 42841 Creek View Plaza, Ashburn. socialhouseva.com
BE KIND & REWIND
7 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 23
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $15. tallyhotheater.com
KEN WENZEL
7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 23
The Dell: Food & Brew Hall, 1602 Village Market Blvd. SE., Leesburg. atthedell.com
GRANT MACMILLAN TRIO
7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 23
Tarbender’s Lounge, 10 S. King St., Leesburg. tarbenderslounge.com
TEJAS SINGH
7 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 23
Social House Kitchen & Tap, 25370 Eastern Marketplace Plaza, South Riding. socialhouseva.com
MICHEL ROBLES
9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, May 23
Lima de Veras Restobar, 20921 Davenport Drive, Sterling. limadeveras.com
WOODGROVE BATTLE OF THE BANDS
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Woodgrove High School, 36811 Allder School Road, Purcellville. $5. lcps.org/o/whs
LENNY BURRIDGE
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com
WHISKEY DRIVEN
12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
DAVID DAVOL
12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Cana Vineyards, 38600 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. canavineyards.com
MICHAEL CHRISTOPHER
12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Goose Creek Village, 21030 Sycolin Road, Ashburn. goosecreekvillage.com
NEW LEGACY BLUES
1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
ERIC CAMPBELL
1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Fabbioli Cellars, 15669 Limestone School Road, Leesburg. fabbiolicellars.com
DAVE GOODRUM
1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro 868estatevineyards.com
GRAYSON MOON
1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Three Creeks Winery, 18548 Harmony Church Road, Hamilton. 3creekswinery.com
KEVIN GRIFFITH
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethills.com
RYAN SILL
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Fleetwood Farm Winery, 23075 Evergreen Mills Road, Leesburg. fleetwoodfarmwinery.com
DAN BARRY
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. 8chainnorth.com
ADRIEL GENET
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com
MOE STRINGZ
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
KEN WENZEL
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com
PHILIP PAGE
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Lost Rhino Brewing Company, 21730 Red Rum Drive, Ashburn. lostrhino.com
MARK CULLINANE
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com
CHRIS COLLAT
2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Old Farm Winery at Hartland, 23583 Fleetwood Road, Aldie. oldfarmwineryhartland.com
STEVE BOYD AND FRIENDS
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com
PATTY REESE
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com
MELANIE PEARL
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Chrysalis Vineyards, 39025 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. chrysalisvineyards.com
HOPELESS SEMANTICS
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Bozzo Family Vineyards, 35226 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. bozwines.com
RALPH BAEZ
2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. twotwistedposts.com
JASON MASI
2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro. dounkeniewinery.com
BEST BETS
THE REFLEX
Saturday, May 24, 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Lucketts. $20. tararawinery.com
The 1980s sound of The Reflex kicks off the 2025 Tarara Concert Series featuring a lineup of 19 shows on Saturday nights through Sept. 27.
NOVA MUSICFEST
Sunday, May 25, 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. $25 to $35. cancercanrock.org
The NoVA MusicFest marks its fifth year with a 10-band lineup featuring some of the region’s most popular musicians. The event a fundraiser for Cancer Can Rock, a nonprofit that supports musicians with cancer by recording their work.
PEARL
2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Chrysalis Vineyards, 39025 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg. chrysaliswine.com
SCOTT KURT
3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com
JAKE PHILLIPS
3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com
MIKE KUSTER BAND
5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
WAYNE SNOW
5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com
MATT METZ
5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24
868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. 868estatevineyards.com
MIKE KUSTER AND THE CATOCTIN COWBOYS
5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
ERIC CAMPBELL
5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
TODD BROOKS BAND
6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
BERLIN CALLING
6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Honor Brewing Company, 42604 Trade W. Drive,
Sterling. honorbrewing.com
THE REFLEX
6 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Lucketts. $20. tararawinery.com
CARLY ROSE RATCLIFFE
7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Social House Kitchen & Tap, 25370 Eastern Marketplace Plaza, South Riding. socialhouseva.com
JEREMIAH PROPHETT
7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Social House Kitchen & Tap, 42841 Creek View Plaza, Ashburn. socialhouseva.com
TEJAS SINGH
7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Velocity Wings Potomac Falls, 20789 Great Falls Plaza, Sterling. velocitywings.net
VULGAR DISPLAY OF PANTERA & OZZMOSIS OZZY TRIBUTE
7 p.m. Saturday, May 24, Tally Ho Theater, Leesburg. tallyhotheater.com
DUCK CHUCK GOOSE
7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 24
The Dell: Food & Brew Hall, 1602 Village Market Blvd. SE., Leesburg. atthedell.com
TORREY B
7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 24
The Bungalow Lakehouse, 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling. bungalowlakehouse.com
ROWDY ACE BAND
9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, May 24
Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com
NOVA MUSICFEST
11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25
868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. $25 to $35. cancercanrock.org
MELANIE
GET OUT LIVE MUSIC
continued from page 25
GOODTIME ALIBI
12 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 25 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
MATT BURRIDGE
1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25 50 West Vineyards, 39060 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com
JASON MASI
2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 25 Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com
SMILE EMPTY SOUL
7 to 11 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. tallyhotheater.com
ANDREW O’DAY
1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 25 Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
SUMMER & ERIC
1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
ZACH JONES
1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Fabbioli Cellars, 15669 Limestone School Road, Leesburg. fabbiolicellars.com
MIKE LEVERONE
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyard.com
CARLY ROSE RATCLIFFE
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25 Fleetwood Farm Winery, 23075 Evergreen Mills Road, Leesburg. fleetwoodfarmwinery.com
STANLEY WHITAKER
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25
8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. 8chainsnorth.com
MATT BURRIDGE
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25
50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com
KEN WENZEL
2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxwineyards.com
RYAN SILL
2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com
JEREMIAH PROPHETT
2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Old Farm Winery at Hartland, 23583 Fleetwood
Road, Aldie. oldfarmwinery.com
THE PETTY THIEVES
2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 25
The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com
JOHN “JP” JONES
2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com
HUME & FRYE
3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com
JOEY AND THE WAITRESS BAND
3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 25 Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville. creeksedgewinery.com
GRAYSON MOON
4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com
SHANE GAMBLE
4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 25
The Bungalow Lakehouse, 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling. bungalowlakehouse.com
CAZHMIERE
5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
LUKE JOHNSON
5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
SMILE EMPTY SOUL & TANTRIC
7 to 11 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $20. tallyhothater.com
CHRIS BOWEN
12 to 4 p.m. Monday, May 26
Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com
TWO FOR THE ROAD
1 to 4 p.m. Monday, May 26
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
JOJO BAYLISS
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 26
Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyard.com
TODD BROOKS
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 26
50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com
KEN WENZEL
2 to 5 p.m. Monday, May 26
Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com
WILL SHEPARD
2 to 5 p.m. Monday, May 26
Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro. harvestgap.com
THE LOST CORNER VAGABONDS
2 to 5 p.m. Monday, May 26
The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804
Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com
DAVID NAIL
7 to 11 p.m. Monday, May 26
Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $39.50. tallyhotheater.com
JASON MASI
6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 28
The Lost Fox, 20374 Exchange St., Ashburn. lostfoxhidaway.com
ERIC SELBY
4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 29
Clubhouse, 19375 Magnolia Grove Square, Lansdowne. lwva.org
DAVE NEMETZ
6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, May 29
Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen Leesburg, 1 N. King St., Leesburg. eatatrebellion.com
HAPPENINGS
WILDLIFE APPRECIATION HIKE
10 to 11 a.m. Friday, May 23
Temple Hall Farm Regional Park, 15855 Limestone School Road, Leesburg. novapark.org
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS
7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, May 23
1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 24
7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24
Capital Community Church, 20430 Ashburn Village Blvd., Ashburn. $21. thepickwickplayers.com
BIRDING SWEET RUN
8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24
Sweet Run State Park, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. loudounwildlife.org
ROUND HILL HOMETOWN FESTIVAL
8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Downtown Round Hill hometownfestival.org
DOG DAYS
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breuxvineyards.com
EYEWITNESS TO WAR
1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 25
Mt. Zion Historic Park, 40309 Little River Turnpike, Aldie. novaparks.org
MINI-COURSE—WHERE WE LIVE
6:15 to 9 p.m. Monday, May 26
Lovettsville Town Office, 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville. $50. lovettsvillehistoricalsociety.org
PAINT EN PLEIN AIR
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 27
Oatlands, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. loudounsketchclub.com
READ! PLANT! GROW! BOOK CLUB
6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 27
Birch Tree Bookstore, 11 W. Market St., Leesburg. birchtreebookstore.com
IPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY
7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 27
Brambleton Library, 22850 Brambleton Plaza, Brambleton. loudoun.gov/Brambleton
RINGING IN HOPE
8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, May 26, Christian Fellowship Church, 44505 Atwater Dr., Ashburn. $15 to $50. ringinginhope.com
Obituaries
Sharon O'Connor
haron Lloyd O’Connor, 76, passed peacefully with her family by her side on April 29, 2025, at Spring Arbor of Leesburg. Loved by so many, including her cherished kitties, Sharon was known for her work creating community on behalf of the Earth and all its creatures. From volunteering for Habitat for Humanity to lobbying on Capitol Hill, Sharon embodied the values of creation care. A natural communicator, Sharon graduated with a master’s degree in the field from Cornell University. With her artist’s eye, she also created beautiful handmade cards that let each person know their unique gifts. A resident of the Virginia/Maryland/DC area for more than 40 years, Sharon helped communities manage change. She dealt with nuclear waste disposal while on staff at the League of Women Voters, and she helped create dental clinics for unserved residents with Loudoun Social Services. She also created De-lighting the Night Sky, a dark sky awareness campaign and event in Loudoun. Sharon was an advocate for NarAnon of Frederick, Md. She was a longtime member of St. James United Church of Christ in Lovettsville. Sharon was also a trainer for Eden Alternative, a community approach to elder care, and by chance she helped design the Spring Arbor cottage where she spent her final days. Sharon was the daughter of the late Roy and Mary Lloyd of Rochester, New York, and she was predeceased by her brother David. Sharon is survived by her husband of 31 years, Michael O’Connor, stepson Evan (Avery), granddaughter Margaux, and her siblings Susan, Stephen (Anne), Henry (Diane), Janis Clifton (Rev. Barry), and Larry (Donna). Sharon was a devoted aunt and cherished her nieces and nephews: Chris, Gretchen,Casey, Tom, Heather, Emme, Zea, Hannah, Rachel, Rebecca, Katie and Liam and many adored great nieces and nephews. Sharon had throngs of dear friends whom she held close to her heart, and they will miss her dearly. A celebration of Sharon’s life will be held on Saturday May 31 at 11 a.m. at St. James UCC on 10 East Broad Way in Lovettsville. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Sharon’s memory by making a donation to a cause you think would honor her heart.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.
All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”
This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753. fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov www.fairhousing.vipnet.org
Legal Notices
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
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.
April 22, 2025*
May 5, 2025
Tuesday, May 20, 2025* 4:30 pm/6:30 pm
Monday, June 2, 2025 6:30 pm
School Board Review of Secondary School Attendance Zone Recommendations (Information)
School Board Attendance Zone Briefing & Public Hearing
Tuesday, June 10, 2025* 4:30 pm/6:30 pm School Board Adoption of Secondary School Attendance Zone Changes (Action Item)
*Regular School Board Business Meeting
The meetings will be held at the Loudoun County Public Schools Administration Building (21000 Education Court, Ashburn) and broadcast live on Comcast channel 18 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
Legal Notices
OFFICIAL VOTING INFORMATION
The Constitution of Virginia requires that you be registered in the precinct in which you live to be qualified to vote.
For the convenience of the citizens of Loudoun County, the Voter Registration Office at 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite 150, Leesburg, is open each week, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
In order to be eligible to vote in the June Democratic Party Primary Election to be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, you must register no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27.
Please note, The Office of Elections will be closed Monday, May 26, 2025. If you miss this deadline, you can register to vote and vote a provisional ballot. Please call us at the number shown below should you have any questions.
Judith Brown, General Registrar 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite C Leesburg, Virginia 20175-8916
703-777-0380
Online - Eligible citizens of the Commonwealth can submit a voter registration application or update their registration information on-line as long as they have a Virginia driver’s license. To apply online go to - www.vote.virginia.gov.
Department of Motor Vehicles – You can apply or update your information online at the DMV when completing a driver’s license transaction.
Mail-in voter registration applications are also available at all Loudoun County libraries and community centers and can be downloaded at https://www.elections.virginia.gov/registration/voter-forms/
You can also go to www.vote.virginia.gov to verify your registration address and find out what’s on your ballot and where you vote.
5/22/25
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSPEX2024-0017 ENTERPRISE CAR RENTAL
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Special Exception application TLSPEX2024-0017, Enterprise Car Rental.
The Subject Property for this application is a property located at 17 Fort Evans Road SE. The property is zoned CD-C, Crescent District-Commercial and is further described by Loudoun County Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 189-46-2568 and totals 2.395 acres.
Special Exception Application TLSPEX2024-0017 is a request by Enterprise Mobility to allow redevelopment of the site for use as a vehicle sales and/or rental facility pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance Section 7.10.9.D.1 Use Regulations. The Applicant proposes the adaptive reuse of two existing structures, a 3,290 square foot rental office and 2,350 square foot wash bay. Two other existing accessory structures on site are proposed for demolition.
The Subject Property is located in what the Town Plan describes as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan pg. 72). The property is further designated within the Town Plan as a “Retail Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan pg. 76).
The application includes five requested modifications of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance regulations, including two landscaping and buffer yard modifications, two modifications for building architecture, and a modification for loading space requirements
Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Department of Community Development located at 222 Catoctin Circle SE, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia 20175 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Debi Parry, Planner-Land Use, by telephone at 703-737-7023, or by email at dparry@leesburgva.gov
At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning this matter will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Department of Community Development at (703) 771-2765 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.\ 5/22 & 5/29/25
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.
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER MINOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSPEX2024-0012 CHURCH AND MARKET
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Minor Special Exception application TLSPEX2024-0012 for Courthouse Square Development Associates, LLC (Church and Market).
The Subject Property for this application is a vacant property at 9 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20175. The property is zoned B-1, Community (Downtown) Business District, and is part of the H-1, Overlay, Old and Historic District. The property is further described as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 231-38-6044 and totals 1.566 acres.
Minor Special Exception Application TLSPEX2024-0012 is a request by Courthouse Square Development Associates, LLC (Church and Market) to amend previously approved Special Exception Application (TLSE-2018-0005) to provide up to 167 residential units (increase of 51 dwelling units) and reduce the amount of office use from 11,500 square feet to 1,500 square feet.
The Subject Property is located in what the Town Plan describes as an “Area to Strengthen (and Protect)” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan pg. 72). The property is further designated within the Town Plan as “Downtown” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan pg. 76).
The application includes a requested modification of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance regulations for open space and active recreation area. This requested modification amends modifications that were previously approved.
Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Department of Community Development located on the second floor of 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Scott E. Parker, Senior Planning Project Manager at 703-771-2771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
5/22 & 5/29/25
Legal Notices
Round Hill Town Council Notice of Public Hearing
Proposed Budget Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026)
Pursuant to Code of Virginia §§15.2-2506, notice is hereby given that the Round Hill Town Council will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed FY 2026 Budget on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 7:30PM at the Round Hill Town Office, 23 Main Street, Round Hill, Virginia. Any person interested in the FY2026 Budget may attend the public hearing in person or electronically and present his or her views. Participation via a Zoom link can be accessed on the Town’s website, www.roundhillva.gov. Written comments can be submitted to townclerk@roundhillva.gov by 3:00PM on the day of the meeting and will be presented during the public hearing. Copies of the detailed budget and related documents are available on the Town’s website (www.roundhillva.gov) or at the Town Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00AM – 4:00PM.
Ending 6/30/2025
Notice is hereby given that Loudoun Auto Transport LLC, 20222 Aztec Court, Ashburn, VA 20147, has filed an application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity that would authorize: 1. Passenger transportation as a Common Carrier over Irregular Routes, providing service in the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Manassas Park and Winchester, Virginia, and the Counties of Arlington, Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Warren, Virginia.
Any person who desires to protest the application and be a party to the matter must submit a signed and dated written request setting forth (1) a precise statement of the party’s interest and how the party could be aggrieved if the application was granted; (2) a full and clear statement of the facts that the person is prepared to provide by competent evidence; (3) a statement of the specific relief sought; (4) the name of the applicant and case number assigned to the application; and (5) a certification that a copy of the protest was sent to the applicant. The case number assigned to this application is MC2500298TA.
Written protests must be mailed to DMV Motor Carrier Services, Attn: Operating Authority, P. O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269-0001 and must be postmarked on or before June 18, 2025.
Any protest filed with competent evidence will be carefully considered by DMV, however, DMV will have full discretion as to whether a hearing is warranted based on the merits of the protest filed.
5/22/25
Legal Notices
PUBLIC HEARING
The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, at 6:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, June 11, 2025, in order to consider:
PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RICHLAND FOREST
RESIDENTIAL PERMIT PARKING DISTRICT DUCKSPRINGS WAY (ROUTE 3003), BULLRUSH PLACE (ROUTE 3004), BLACKBERRY COURT (ROUTE 3005), AND MAYAPPLE PLACE (ROUTE 3006)
Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-1427 and § 490.04 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County, and the receipt of a petition representing the required number of eligible addresses, the Board of Supervisors gives notice of its intention to propose for passage of an ordinance establishing a new Residential Permit Parking District, to be known as the “Richland Forest Parking District”, along sections of Ducksprings Way (Route 3003), Bullrush Place (Route 3004), Blackberry Court (Route 3005) and Mayapple Place (Route 3006), public road right-of-way located in the Algonkian Election District. The public road rightof-ways proposed for inclusion within the Parking District are not primary highways and are not located within an incorporated area of the County. Within the Parking District, on-street parking during specified hours and days shall be permitted only upon display of a valid parking permit or visitor pass. Vehicles parked in violation of the Parking District’s restrictions may be subject to towing at the owners’ expense, and the owners of such vehicles shall be subject to fines. The Richland Forest Parking District shall be designated on an Official Residential Permit Parking Map and shall be physically identified by the County with signs.
A complete copy of the full text of the above-referenced proposed ordinance and the Official Residential Permit Parking Map for the Richland Forest Parking District, are on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the County Administrator, County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”).
LEGI-2023-0065, GREENFIELD FARM REZONING:
ZMAP-2023-0003, SPEX-2023-0008, SPEX-2024-0022, SPEX-2024-0023, SPMI-2023-0004, ZMOD-2023-0012, ZMOD-2023-0013, ZMOD-2023-0014, ZMOD-2023-0015, ZMOD-2024-0009 & PLAT-2024-0249
(Zoning Map Amendment, Special Exceptions, Zoning Modifications, & Subdivision Exception)
Orme Farm, LLC, has submitted applications for the following: a zoning map amendment, special exceptions, zoning ordinance modifications, and a subdivision exception for approximately 174.74 acres of land located west of Evergreen Mills Road (Route 621), east of the Dulles Greenway (Route 267), and north of Hogeland Mill Road (Route 649) in the Catoctin Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as:
236-15-4867-000 N/A
236-46-5707-000 41451 Shreve Mill Road, Leesburg, VA
236-27-7526-000 N/A
/60//10/////3/
/60////////53A
/60////////56A
For ZMAP-2023-0003, the applicant seeks to rezone the Subject Property from the AR-1 (Agricultural Rural – 1) zoning district to the PD-H4 (Planned Development – Housing 4) zoning district to be administered as R-4 (Single Family Residential - 4) utilizing ADU (Affordable Dwelling Unit) regulations and the PD-CC(CC) (Planned Development – Commercial Center (Community Center) zoning districts under the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance (Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance) to develop 496 single-family detached (SFD) and 22 multifamily attached (MFA) dwelling units at a density of 3.37 dwelling units per acre and up to 44,265 square feet (SF) of commercial uses. For SPEX-2023-0008, SPEX-2024-0022, and SPEX-2024-0023, the applicant seeks three special exceptions in order to (1) permit a convenience store with gas pumps, (2) permit a restaurant with drive-through facilities, and (3) allow the minimum lot width, Traditional Design Option for SFD units to be 30 feet for certain lot types. For SPMI-2023-0004, the applicant seeks a minor special exception to increase the maximum SF for commercial uses by 1,000 SF. For ZMOD-2023-0012, ZMOD-20230013, ZMOD-2023-0014, ZMOD-2023-0015, and ZMOD-2024-0009, the applicant seeks five zoning modifications in order to: (1) reduce the minimum front yard requirements for SFD Traditional design option from 15 feet to 5 feet for SFD D1 and D2 typologies, (2) to reduce the nine-foot minimum side yard requirements for Traditional Design Option SFD A, B, and C typologies to an eight-foot minimum side yard; (3) for Traditional Design Option SFD D1 typology lots to a zero-foot minimum side yard on one side of each dwelling unit and an eight-foot minimum side yard on the other side of such dwelling unit if an eight-foot minimum distance is maintained between the adjacent dwelling unit; (4) for Traditional Design Option SFD D2 typology lots to a four-foot minimum side yard if an eight-foot minimum distance is maintained between adjacent dwelling units; (5) to reduce the minimum rear yard requirements for SFD Traditional design option from 25-feet minimum to 15-feet minimum for SFD C, D1, and D2 typologies, to permit private street access for certain SFD units, increase the total land area dedicated to retail and service uses from three percent to six percent, eliminate street tree requirements for private streets serving as alleys, and to reduce the permanent open space buffer between shopping center uses and residential districts from 75 feet to 50 feet. The applications are being processed under
the land use and development regulations of the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Grandfathering Resolution, dated December 13, 2023. 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 applications for the following: 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:
138-45-4663-000 42429 Lucketts Road Leesburg, VA /20//20/////1/ 179-30-6314-000 14560 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, VA /30///2/////7/ 179-30-6877-000 14550 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, VA /20////////33/ 179-40-7230-000 42631 Lucketts Road Leesburg, VA /20////////39/ 179-40-8655-000 42367 Lucketts Road Leesburg, VA /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 modify the CR-1 (Countryside Residential – 1) Legacy Zoning District under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance to permit a sewage treatment plant to support a sewer service area. 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-2024-0052, BANNEKER ELEMENTARY RENOVATION AND ADDITION: SPEX-2024-0072
(Minor Special Exception)
The Loudoun County School Board has submitted an application for a minor special exception for a 19.22-acre property located south of Snake Hill Road (Route 744) and east of St. Louis Road (Route 611) in the Little River Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as PIN # 596-25-2318-000 and Tax Map # /72////////25/. For SPEX-2024-0072, the applicant seeks to permit a public school to be served by on-site sewer and water systems.
LEGI-2024-0027, JESSE COURT: ZMAP-2024-0007 & SPEX-2024-0044 (Zoning Map Amendment & Special Exception)
Repulse Bay II, LLC, and Andrew J. Parker have submitted applications for the following: a zoning map amendment and a special exception for approximately 16.26 acres of land located south of East Severn Way (Route 847), east of Sully Road (Route 28), and northwest and west of Atlantic Boulevard (Route 1902) in the Sterling Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as PIN #: 043-40-7465-000, and Tax Map # /80//16/////2/.
For ZMAP-2024-0007, the applicants seek to rezone the Subject Property from the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district administered under the 1972 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance to the IP (Industrial Park) zoning district under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. For SPEX-2024-0044, the applicants seeks a special exception to allow Machinery and Equipment Sales and Services use in the IP zoning district.
LEGI-2023-0074, BELMONT COVE REZONING:
ZMAP-2023-0006, ZMOD-2023-0032, ZMOD-2023-0056, ZMOD-2023-0057, & ZMOD-2024-0008 AND BELMONT COVE APPENDAGE: ZCPA-2024-0004
(Zoning Map Amendment, Zoning Modifications, and Zoning Concept Plan Amendment)
Rooney Properties, LLC has submitted applications for the following: a zoning map amendment, zoning modifications, and a zoning concept plan amendment for 8.19 acres of land located west of Russell Branch Parkway (Route 1061), east of Belmont Manor Lane, and South of Leesburg Pike (Route 7) in the Ashburn Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject property is more particularly described as:
(continued on next page)
083-36-3675-000 N/A
083-36-5250-000 N/A
Legal Notices
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083-36-5928-000 N/A /62AB/1/////B/
For ZMAP-2023-0006, the applicant seeks to rezone the Subject Property from the PD-OP (Planned Development – Office Park) zoning district to the R-16 ADU (Townhouse/Multifamily Affordable Dwelling Unit) zoning district to develop 78 single family attached dwelling units. For ZMOD2023-0032, ZMOD-2023-0056, ZMOD-2023-0057, and ZMOD-2024-0008, the applicant seeks zoning ordinance modifications for various regulations affecting the Subject Property including but not limited to reducing building setbacks and landscape buffers along Russell Branch Parkway, allow residential units to front onto open space, modification to the landscape buffer, and to modify tree canopy requirements. ZMAP-2023-0006, ZMOD-2023-0032, ZMOD-2023-0056, ZMOD-2023-0057, and ZMOD-2024-0008 are being processed under the land use and development regulations of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Grandfathering Resolution dated December 13, 2023. For ZCPA-2024-0004, the applicant seeks to reduce the required building setback and eliminate the required parking setback on a portion of the Subject Property. ZCPA-2024-0004 is being processed under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance
LEGI-2023-0070, HIDDENWOOD ASSEMBLAGE: ZMAP-2023-0004 (Zoning Map Amendment)
Edward Y. Papazian and Judith C. Papazian; Thomas Devine Harmon and Pornpit Mrigalakshana, Trustees of the Harmon Living Trust; Frank W. Hardesty and Angela Cannady Hardesty; Venugopal Ravva and Vara Laxmi Ravva; Lisa Sweeney Bell and Scott Bell; John A. Ward and Nancy L. Ward; Keith E. Calhoun and Kristin E. Calhoun; Jay Baltzer and Stephanie McGrady; Gary G. Hosaflook and Joyce E. Hosaflook; Brent Bumgardner; Paul C. Farmer and Holly A. Farmer; Abdus S. Azad; Sharmeen Khan and Asim Khan; Kashif Iqbal and Ayesha Iqbal; Michael E. Duncan; and Patricia Catherine Cave and Jonathan Earley have submitted an application for a zoning map amendment for approximately 28.92 acres of land located east of Racefield Lane (Route 877), south of Cameron Parish Drive (Route 3444) and north of Stone Springs Boulevard (Route 659) in the Dulles Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is more particularly described as:
203-37-7428-000 N/A
203-37-8437-000 N/A
203-37-9642-000 42112 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-0747-000 42120 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-1952-000 N/A
203-38-3156-000 42140 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-4261-000 N/A
203-38-5465-000 42160 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-6670-000 42172 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-7775-000 42186 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-38-8980-000 42206 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
PUBLIC NOTICE
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The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.
PLAT-2025-0114 Stone Hill
Ms. Angela Rassas, of Toll VA LLP, of Reston, VA is requesting preliminary plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately sixteen (16.6) acres into eighty-five (85) lots and associated easements. The property is located south of Evergreen Ridge Drive (Route 3100) and east of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607). The property is zoned R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential), under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 123-15-0056-000 and 123-25-5394-000 in the Sterling Election District.
Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http:// www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2025-0114. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Samantha Lockwood at Samantha.Lockwood@Loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by June 25, 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).
5/22, 5/29, 6/5, 6/12 & 6/19/25
203-39-0184-000 N/A
203-39-1290-000 42224 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-39-2395-000 42234 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-39-3598-000 42240 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-49-4606-000 42258 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
203-49-5711-000 42268 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
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203-49-6816-000 42274 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA 100/B/1/////3/
203-49-8021-000 42292 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA 100/B/1/////2/
203-49-9224-000 42298 Hiddenwood Lane Aldie, VA
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For ZMAP-2023-0004, the applicants seek to rezone the Subject Property from the CR-1 (Countryside Residential – 1) Legacy Zoning District to the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district to allow up to 334,000 square feet of industrial park uses. The application is being processed under the land use and development regulations of the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Grandfathering Resolution dated December 13, 2023.
Copies of the proposed plans, ordinances, and amendments for each land use application listed above may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center; Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-7770246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies. Additional project files related to land use applications for public hearings may be reviewed electronically at loudoun.gov/landmarc. In addition, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: loudoun.gov/bosdocuments.
Board of Supervisors public hearings are held in the Board Room of the Government Center. Meetings are televised on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40. Meetings also are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings.
Members of the public desiring to do so may appear and present their views regarding those matters 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 public hearing. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. For this public hearing, advanced sign-ups will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on May 30, 2025, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on June 11, 2025. Members of the public may also submit written comments by email sent to bos@loudoun.gov. Any written comments received prior to the public hearing will be distributed to Board members. Members of the public may also submit comments on land use items electronically at loudoun.gov/landapplications.
Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory, or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200/TTY711. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings.
BY ORDER OF: PHYLLIS J. RANDALL, CHAIR
LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TOWN OF PURCELLVILLE
5/22 & 5/29/25
The Town Council of the Town of Purcellville will hold a public hearing in the Town Council Chambers located at 221 South Nursery Avenue, Purcellville, Virginia on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM for the purpose of receiving comments on, considering, and possibly voting on the following item:
Town Code Amendment: The Town hereby gives its intent to amend Chapter 74-Taxation, by creating Article IX. Daily Short-Term Rental Tax, Section 235 through 247; of the Town Code of the Town of Purcellville:
1. The Town Council proposes adopting an ordinance to enact a tax on tangible personal property held for rental and owned by an individual engaged in the short-term rental business, at the rate of one percent (1%) on gross proceeds.
At this public hearing, all persons desiring to present their views concerning this matter will be heard. In addition, all persons have the option of sending an email to the Town Clerk, Kimberly Bandy, at kbandy@purcellvilleva.gov, with written comments or questions concerning the proposed amendment. Emails sent by 4:00PM the day of the Public Hearing will be part of the written record for the public hearing, but may not necessarily be read aloud into the record at the public hearing.
Christopher Bertaut, Mayor
5/22 & 5/29/25
Legal Notices
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER TOWN PLAN AMENDMENT
LEESBURG GATEWAY
TLTPAM2024-0001
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205, 15.2-2285, and 15.2.2225 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the Leesburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Town Plan Amendment application TLTPAM2024-0001 – a request by Leesburg Gateway, LLC and Battlefield 7 LC (collectively the “Owner”) to amend the Legacy Leesburg Town Plan by adding a new development alternative and policy guidance that allows data centers, flex industrial buildings, and parkland under “Opportunity Area No. 3- Eastern Gateway District” (LLTP, pgs. 200, 201).
The Town Plan Amendment applies to three contiguous parcels totaling 101.926 acres (the “Property”), which are further described as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Numbers (PIN) 148-35-0679, 148-25-9434, and 148-15-6486. These parcels are 52.772, 46.391, and 2.763 acres respectively.
The Property is bounded by Route 7 (East Market Street) to the south, Battlefield Parkway to the east, Potomac Station Drive and PIN 148-35-3920 to the North, and PIN 189-49-6489 (the Leesburg Outlet Mall) to the west.
PIN 148-35-0679 is zoned R-1, Single-Family Residential District and R-2, Single-Family Residential District, PIN 148-25-9434 is zoned RE, Single-Family Residential Estate District and B-3, Community Retail/Commercial District, and PIN 148-15-6486 is zoned RE, Single-Family Residential Estate District. The subject properties are also subject to the Gateway District (Overlay).
Town Plan Amendment Application TLTPAM2024-0001 is a request by Leesburg Gateway, LLC and Battlefield 7 LC to provide a development alternative for the Property. While the existing land use pattern contemplates a Mixed Use Neighborhood, the proposed development alternative would allow data centers, flex space, and parkland. The new policy language would provide land use guidance and include specific policy addressing parkland and open space requirements, buffering and landscaping, transportation infrastructure, and building and site design.
The Town Plan designates the Property as a “Place to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiative Map (pg. 72). The Property is further designated as “Innovation Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation & Change Map (pg. 76). Guidance of the Eastern Gateway District Small Area Plan which designates the Property as Mixed Use Neighborhood also applies.
A separate Rezoning Application (TLREZN2024-0003) has also been submitted by the Applicant that includes a concept plan and proffers for the Property. This rezoning application is still under review.
Additional information and copies of these applications are available at the Department of Community Development located at 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia, 20175, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), on the Town’s website at leesburgva.gov, or by contacting Scott E. Parker, Senior Planning Project Manager at 703-7712771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov.
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/22 & 5/29/25
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE FY 2026-FY 2031 SECONDARY ROAD SIX-YEAR PLAN AND FY 2026 CONSTRUCTION IMPROVEMENT BUDGET PRIORITY LIST
In accordance with Virginia Code §33.2-331, the LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (VDOT) will jointly hold a combined PUBLIC HEARING in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on WEDNESDAY, June 11, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., to consider adoption of the FY 2026 – FY 2031 Secondary Road Six-Year Plan and the FY 2026 Construction Improvement Budget Priority List (Secondary Road Six-Year Plan) developed for the secondary roads in Loudoun County.
All projects in the Secondary Road Six-Year Plan that are eligible for federal funds will be included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), which documents how Virginia will obligate federal transportation funds.
VDOT ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The list of highway improvement projects in the proposed Secondary Road Six-Year Plan, and the proposed FY 2026 Construction Improvement Budget Priority List may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center; Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-7770200. Documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: loudoun.gov/bosdocuments They can also be viewed at the Virginia Department of Transportation Leesburg Residency Office, 41 Lawson Road, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or call (703) 737-2000.
Board of Supervisors public hearings are held in the Board Room of the Government Center. Meetings are televised on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40. Meetings also are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings.
Members of the public desiring to do so may appear and present their views regarding those matters 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 public hearing. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on May 30, 2025, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on June 11, 2025. Members of the public may also submit written comments by email sent to bos@loudoun.gov. Any written comments received prior to the public hearing will be distributed to Board members. Members of the public may also submit comments on land use items electronically at loudoun.gov/landapplications.
Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory, or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200/TTY-711. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings.
BY ORDER OF:
Phyllis J. Randall, Chair Andrew Beacher, Assistant District Administrator Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Virginia Department of Transportation
5/22 & 5/29/25
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSPEX2024-0013 MCDONALD’S DRIVE THROUGH EXPANSION
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Special Exception application TLSPEX2024-0013, McDonald’s Drive Through Expansion.
The Subject Property for this application is a property located at 335 East Market Street. The property is zoned CD-C, Crescent District Commercial and is further described by Loudoun County Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 231-20-3436 and totals .74 acres.
Special Exception Application TLSPEX2024-0013 is a request by Franchise Realty Interstate Corp to amend a previously approved special exception for an eating establishment with drive-in facility pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance Section 7.10.9.D.1 Use Regulations. The Applicant proposes adding a second drive through lane to facilitate drive through operations for the restaurant.
The Subject Property is located in what the Town Plan describes as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan pg. 72). The property is further designated within the Town Plan as a “Crescent Area” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan pg. 76)
The application includes two requested modifications of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance regulations, including a modification to reduce the number of parking spaces provided and a modification for loading space requirements.
Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Department of Community Development located at 222 Catoctin Circle SE, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia 20175 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Debi Parry, Planner-Land Use, by telephone at 703-737-7023, or by email at dparry@leesburgva.gov
At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning this matter will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Department of Community Development at (703) 771-2765 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
5/22 & 5/29/25
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE BIDS/ PROPOSALS FOR:
ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR TWO LOUDOUN COUNTY FIRE AND RESCUE PROJECTS, RFP No. 676865 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 17, 2025.
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING INSPECTION (CEI) SERVICES FOR CROSSTRAIL BOULEVARD SEGMENT
C, RFP No. 677879 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 24, 2025.
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING INSPECTION (CEI) SERVICES FOR WAXPOOL ROAD AND LOUDOUN COUNTY PARKWAY INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS, RFP No. 676868 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 16, 2025.
CONSTRUCTION OF THE WASHINGTON & OLD DOMINION TRAIL AT-GRADE CROSSING PROJECT, IFB No. 641808 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 10, 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
5/22/25
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104
Case No.: CL25-2859
Loudoun County Circuit Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re June B. Lane, Petitioner v. Edward S. Lane, Respondent
The object of this suit is for a judicial determination of the death of Edward S. Lane, Jr.; notice of this suit by publication being required by Virginia Code § 64.2-2304, it is therefore ORDERED, that Edward S. Lane, Jr., and any other person with an interest in this determination or having information that Edward S. Lane, Jr., is alive appear on or before 9:00 a.m. on July 18, 2025, before this Court at its courthouse in Leesburg, Virginia, and take such advisable and necessary actions as will protect their interests.
5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29/25
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
Online Community Meeting
Thursday, May 29, 2025 7:00-8:00 p.m.
The public is invited to a community meeting to hear about and discuss a pending Town Plan Amendment for land located in the northwest quadrant of Route 7 and Battlefield Parkway. The project is known as Leesburg Gateway, TLTPAM2024-0001 and the request is to add alternative language in the Town Plan to permit development of data centers, flex office buildings and a Town park. The applicant is sponsoring this community meeting on May 29. The Leesburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the Town Plan Amendment at 7 p.m. on June 5 in Council Chambers in Leesburg Town Hall.
You may join the community meeting at: https://zoom.us/j/91620412041. If you join directly from the zoom website, the meeting ID code is 916 2041 2041.
Please email any questions to contact@curatapartners.com.
5/22/25
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
VA. CODE § 8.01-316
Case No.: JJ049287
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Anne Monserrat Pena Munoz
Loudoun County Department of Family Services v. Dayana Nicole Pena-Munoz
The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1-278.2 and §16.1-281 for Anne Monserrat Pena Munoz.
It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Dayana Nicole Pena-Munoz appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before May 29, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. (Disposition).
5/15, 5/22 & 5/29/25
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.: CL25-1782
Loudoun County Circuit Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Justin Alexander Paz v. Name change
The object of this suit is to notify father of name change
It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Arturo Alexander Paz appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before July 18, 2025 at 10:00 am.
5/8, 5/15, 5/22 & 5/29/25
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
Case No.: JJ048910-04-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Andrea Isabel Benitez and Loudoun County Department of Family Services v. Wasnat Mojamet, putative father and Unknown Father
The object of this suit is to hold a second permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-282.1 and §16.1-281 for Andrea Isabel Benitez.
It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Wasnat Mojamet, putative father, and Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before June 17, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
5/8, 5/15, 5/22 & 5/29/25
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
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
Yard Sale in Tavistock Farms on Saturday May 31 from 8am-1pm.
Items include: furniture, household goods, kitchen items, decor, entertainment, women’s clothing (M-XL), women’s shoes (W 8-9), toys, nerf guns, lego sets, slime kits, homeschool curriculum, books, and more!
Loco Service Providers
Published by Loudoun Community Media
RENSS GREENE
Executive Director rgreene@loudounnow.org
BILL CLIFFORD Chief Development Of cer bclifford@loudounnow.org
NORMAN K. STYER
Executive Editor nstyer@loudounnow.org
EDITORIAL
AMBER LUCAS Reporter alucas@loudounnow.org
HANNA PAMPALONI Reporter hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
WILLIAM TIMME Reporter wtimme@loudounnow.org
ADVERTISING
SUSAN STYER
Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.org
TONYA HARDING Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.org
VICKY MASHAW
Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.org
Opinion
A Game Changer
As the ripples of the chaotic federal policies begin to be felt in the local economy, our local government and community leaders are stepping in to shore up the safety net that may face its biggest test since the pandemic.
Like today, during the pandemic residents wrestled with high consumer prices and job losses. Back then, it was the federal government that provided the core resources to address the challenge. This time, the crisis is being caused by federal government cutbacks and it will be local sources that fill the void.
Loudoun’s philanthropic community recognizes the urgency. Last week, the 100WomenStrong giving circle celebrated a milestone in surpassing $5 million in grants, including a record $646,000 this year. But a key message
READERS’ poll
to the leaders of the nearly 50 nonprofits gathered for that ceremony was: We know you may need more.
Earlier this year, the Board of Supervisors provided an emergency allocation of $5 million to be available for yet-unknown community needs that could be addressed by Loudoun’s nonprofit community. This week, the board took another step by increasing the pot of funding for its annual nonprofit grants to a record $3.84 million.
In Loudoun’s data center-fueled budget, $9 million is relatively insignificant; in the hands of local nonprofits on the frontlines of providing emergency and support services that money is a game changer and a critical community investment.
CHIPshots
Supervisors Explore Expanded Childcare Services for County Workforce
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
Loudoun supervisors on Tuesday advanced the study of new programs aimed at helping the county workforce cope with the increasing costs of childcare.
Last year, the board included the initiative on the priority list for its term and work is continuing to determine what programs the county could offer, with options ranging from providing subsidies to adding childcare centers at county offices.
Members of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services met with the Board of Supervisors’ finance committee last week to get more direction. A key question was whether the service should become a bargaining topic with the local government’s two newly established unions.
Currently, the county offers a Dependent Care FSA that permits employees to use a pre-tax benefit of up to $4,000 to pay for childcare services, with the local government providing a match of up to $1,000 annually for participating
Sheriff's Strategic Plan
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and was supported by Chapman.
However, Loudoun County Public Schools Superintendent Aaron Spence said he does not support adding deputies to elementary schools and also opposed a proposal to transition the school security staff to a law enforcement unit in his June 2024 post entry plan. At that time, he said he may consider adding more unarmed school security officers to elementary schools after reviewing visitor protocols.
LCSO Spokesperson Tom Julia said the Sheriff’s Office is aware of Spence’s position. However, he said Chapman is “still 100% committed” to providing deputies for school if the School Board asks him to, adding that the strategic plan is “forward-looking.”
For 2025, goals include increased
employees. Of the 1,100 employees with children under the age of 13, 255 participate in the program, according to a report to the committee. The program costs the county $220,000 per year.
The parks department is also working to expand its popular CASA after-school program for elementary school students to additional locations, but whether county employees should get priority access for available slots remains a question. Also being discussed is whether to offer services for infants or for adult children with disabilities.
Committee Chair Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) has been leading the push for expanded childcare services for county workers.
“In my utopia, people are arriving at the Metro center, walking into the new county office building, and their oneyear-old is going into childcare, and then they’re going to work all day, and then they get to walk down at lunchtime and maybe breastfeed their child, or have lunch with their child, and they go back to work, and then they bundle everyone up and go home,” Briskman said.
“I understand the programming part
is a lot more complicated,” she said. “We don’t necessarily have space for it right now. And as far as having them in county buildings, I know that that is maybe an eight-year plan,” she said.
Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) urged supervisors to proceed cautiously.
When negotiating the service with union representatives, Letourneau noted the board has capped the overall cost of collective bargaining concessions so the result of those talks will depend on the unions’ priorities, as well.
“The way that we are approaching benefits and the model that we have chosen, which is full collective bargaining, is based on an overall dollar amount and that’s essentially what we can afford,” he said. “And then we negotiate within that framework, and how that gets divided up depends on the negotiation and what the priorities are for the unions and so on. This is an item that needs to be inserted into that process if we were to do anything, because there is a cost to the county. There’s a cost to the taxpayer to provide it. … It’s like the other benefits that we offer. So, it should
be within that framework.”
Letourneau also said the board should keep benefits in line with those typically available to residents.
“There are work workplaces that offer childcare, for instance, and there’re different models here that we can look at, but I’m just putting it out there that I would be sensitive to something that is far exceeding what the average resident in Loudoun County has access to, because it looks like we’re taking care of one group of people, but not the others.”
He also questioned whether expanded childcare services would benefit employees who live outside the county who would be unlikely to take advantage of after-school programs. Providing childcare subsidies or stipends may work better in those cases, he said.
The committee recommended that the staff include the issue in collective bargaining talks next spring and that the county workforce be surveyed to better gauge their needs and interest in expanded programs. The recommendation was approved by the full Board of Supervisors by consent on Tuesday night. n
services for female jail inmates, expansion of the Victim Advocate Unit and Financial and Cybercrime Unit, creating a GED program in the county jail, increasing intelligence and threat assessment capabilities, upgrading jail inmates’ access to tech, and beginning to de-centralize the chain of command within the Field Operations Division.
That decentralization is intended to enhance responsibilities carried by each of the four Sheriff’s Office stations in the county. Julia said the department is going to “look to continue to expand the role of these individual stations.”
Another priority is to integrate the Sheriff’s Office dispatch system with the Town of Leesburg and other jurisdictions in the area. Julia said discussions about that have not yet happened, but the Sheriff’s Office is always searching for ways to “work effectively with the Leesburg Police Department.”
According to Leesburg Police Public
Information and Community Engagement Manager Michele Bowman, the town has discussed ways to improve coordination and has implemented integrations in computer-aided dispatching systems to ensure seamless sharing of information. She said that could be benefits to moving to a shared CAD system.
The strategic plan also supports work to receive re-accreditation from the Virginia Law Enforcement Commission, to seek accreditation for its dispatch center from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch, and to develop new training programs for detectives and supervisors.
By 2026, the agency is looking to expand traffic enforcement, court security, co-responder, and station lobby services and consider forming a civilian-staffed parking enforcement unit. The department will also seek accreditation of the Adult Detention Center from the American Correctional Association.
Objectives for 2027 include beginning to design a fifth substation, planned for a yet to be determined location in Brambleton, and standing up a real-time crime center. County supervisors do not have another station in their long-term construction plan, but Julia said projected population increases means there’s a “case to be made to build a fifth station.”
2028 would see an expansion of the county jail and implementation of a drone as first responder program. Julia said the agency is in the early stages of planning the drone program but already uses drones to search for missing persons and support deputies at major incident scenes.
The plan will be reviewed each year and updated every other year, according to the press release. n
Patrick Lewis is a rising junior at The Catholic University joining Loudoun Now as a summer intern.
A Loudoun Moment
Photo by Douglas Graham
Water Rescue Training
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a successful rescue and recovery mission.
That collaboration is one of the key components of the training exercise, according to LCCFR Chief James Williams.
“I think we do a really good job of that between our two agencies,” he said.
Exercise organizer Capt. Andy Tarbell said a water rescue at the reservoir in March prompted the drill after he realized the existing response plan for the area did not take into account new changes by NOVA Parks, which were completed in
the fall.
“We got dispatched out here for five people that were in the water who had overturned kayaks that they had rented at the facility and it kind of opened our eyes,” Tarbell said.
The new response plan includes sending units to new access points created by NOVA Parks.
“So, this drill was to test our updated response,” he said.
“I think the drill went as planned and went well. I think it’s just a couple minor things that we’ll have to adjust, and that is, as an example, communication between the Sheriff’s Office and firefighters and fine tuning that, because we have a great
radio system that we can all talk together,” Tarbell said.
At any given time in the county, Loudoun Fire and Rescue keeps nine certified swift water techs on staff at the Kincora, Leesburg and Lucketts stations. That will be expanded to 12 when the new Aldie fire station opens this year.
Williams and Tarbell said one of the challenges facing first responders as they conduct water rescues is locating the 911 callers and those needing assistance.
“You never know what they’re going to say [over the phone],” Tarbell said.
Williams encourages residents have a plan when going out on the water, including having a way to call 911 if needed,
always using a flotation device, informing someone else of your location and giving them a timeframe that you expect to return and using the what3words app. The app, which can be downloaded onto a smartphone, is a way to share and find precise locations by providing three key words that can be entered into the app by first responders.
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue units responded to two water rescue calls in the past week with firefighters saving a paddleboarder from a Potomac River island May 14 and assisting on a call regarding four people and two dogs on the Potomac on Monday night. n
Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now
Riders participating in the TransVirginia Bike Route race that started in Washington, DC, crossed Loudoun on Saturday as part of the 565-mile event that ended in Damascus. Sixty percent of the course the commonwealth was on dirt roads.
EXCELLENCE IN HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM AWARDS
May 28 at 6pm-8pm at Loudoun County High School
Loudoun Now Excellence In High School Journalism Awards Program
Presenting sponsor
Loudoun Now, the county’s free, independent, nonprofit news source, is delighted to partner with Google to host the first annual Excellence in High School Journalism Awards on May 28, 2025.
Open to all Loudoun County high schools, this competition will honor the best work from school newspapers and yearbooks in five journalism categories:
• Feature writing • News writing • Videography
• Photography • Podcasts
For the 2025-2026 school year, the Excellence in High School Journalism Awards Program will be expanded to three components, thanks to Google’s ongoing support:
• September: Keynote speaker program featuring journalism professors from DMV colleges and universities
• December: Roundtable discussions with prominent journalists from the DMV
• May: Loudoun Now’s 2026 Excellence in High School Journalism Awards.
