<<

STANDARD PRESORT RESIDENTIAL U.S. POSTAGE CUSTOMER PAID ECRWSS PERMIT NO. 82 WOODSTOCK, VA

JULY 2019 www.blueridgeleader.com blueridgeleader SINCE 1984 Purcellville Planning Commission draws the line on East End Gateway

BY VALERIE CURY Eno asked the Commission to “give us a would look like Fairfax 5.0,” – referring to On June 6, the Purcellville Planning Com- plan we can understand,” adding, “I think the draft which is called Version 5.0. mission held a public hearing on the Pur- the plan is loaded with words that would Sam Brown said that he is opposed to cellville Draft Comprehensive Plan, as part set this Town in the gun sights of develop- more commercial on the east end of Town. of a nearly three-year ers and people who could care less about “Enough is enough … My concern is that DEVELOPMENT process to reflect com- maintaining Purcellville as it is. This Town we don’t get another 7-Eleven, another Ca- munity goals and aspi- toctin Corner – we have enough of those.” rations with respect to community devel- Attorney and developer Mark Ne- “I just want to remind the opment and the Town’s vision for its future. lis weighed in. Nelis said the plan Residents and developer representatives Commission it’s your responsibility “lacks muscle in statistical analysis … IN THIS ISSUE GOVERNMENT . . . . 5 sparred; setting up the next phase in the to recommend a plan to the Town There is nothing in this plan to support BUSINESS...... 14 OPINION...... 6 process – the June 27 Purcellville Planning Council, not community members.” affordable housing.” Pointing out that CLASSIFIEDS. . . . . 28 COMMUNITY. . . . . 3 Commission Work Session. there is not enough acreage for affordable – Attorney, developer, and developer COLUMNISTS . . . . . 8 REAL ESTATE. . . . . 15 On June 6, Purcellville resident David representative Mark Nelis CONTINUED ON PAGE 25 » Loudoun County Fair flies Cannons’ Travis Keys heads to Valley Baseball League All-Star game July 7 into action July 23 to 28 BY ANDREA GAINES Keys faced a total of 79 batters, and The Valley Baseball League – “Gateway earned a total of 15 strikeouts across the Rescue dogs, cows, rabbits, human kindness, to the Majors” – has announced its four games. and more are the stars of the show roster for the 2019 All-Star Game. The Cannons press office described the June 28 win this way, as Keys and his BY ANDREA GAINES The game features the 25 best players pitching partner, Blaze Pontes, brought The Loudoun County Fair COMMUNITY from the league’s the Rebels down: “After scoring six runs opens to the public at 9 a.m. North and South Divisions. Purcellville’s in the first two innings, the Cannons on Tuesday, left-handed pitcher Travis Keys will be never gave up the lead to win 8-5. Travis July 23 at COMMUNITY there, representing the North Division. Keys … earned the start on the mound the Loudoun Keys’ recent 2019 Cannons season after having his nod pushed back one day County Fairgrounds. wins have included a 6-1 victory against due to yesterday’s rainout. He pitched The fairgrounds is a nonprof- the Front Royal Cardinals on June 4, four innings, giving up six hits, five runs, it organization created to give a 5-4 victory against the New Market [and] two walks, while striking out two. Loudoun County 4-H youth a Rebels on June 15, a second 8-4 win Blaze Pontes … took over from there and place to showcase their ani- against the Cardinals on June 22, and earned the win. Pontes went 2.2 innings, mals and support the County’s Marvelous Mutt Wee-la (retired) was originally adopted a second 8-5 win against the Rebels on giving up no hits, and no runs, walking from a rescue group in . CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 » June 28. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 »

CALL JOHN. JUST SOLD • FULL PRICE • 3 DAYS 828 MAPLE FLATS TER

JOHN CONSTANT 7 0 3 . 5 8 5 . 6 2 7 8 | J O H N @ A T O K A P R O P E R T I E S . C O M GET MORE. A S S O C I A T E B R O K E R 2 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 3 Loudoun native launching himself into the music world BY ANDREA GAINES Sweet, haunting, and uplifting. Smooth How to listen to, and support and melancholy with the unmistakable Grant Frazier Lyrics from “Bury me in you,” feeling that the person behind the music YouTube Crowd Funding link to support Grant by Grant Frazier has a real yearning for the possibility of a Frazier: http://bit.ly/2GqBGT1 beautiful life to come. First album, Runaway: find it on www. Well I feel lost again GrantFrazierMusic.com, iTunes and Spotify This is one way to describe the music YouTube Crowd Funding link to support Grant Need some oxygen to bring me of 22-year-old singer/songwriter Grant Frazier: http://bit.ly/2GqBGT1 back to life Frazier, a 2015 graduate of Loudoun Oceans rising but I feel the Valley High School waves pushing through my heart COMMUNITY currently in his 4th A dedicated artist, Frazier is really going tonight year at the College after, not fame, but the joy in exploring Don’t know where to go of Arts & Sciences at the University of his musical talents and what can be found I’ll just let the stars decide . in that beautiful life to come. And, he has Frazier was the top winner and attracted the interest of some pretty big Before I felt it all, then I hit a wall scholarship recipient out of the 12 names in the music world in the process. But I’m still by your side students selected for recognition in the “I’m currently crowd funding money All I wanna do is be stuck with Loudoun Times Mirror Future Leaders for my upcoming second record under the you, I need you by my side program the year he graduated from production of producer Daniel Levi Goans So bury me in you LVHS. of the award-winning folk band, Lowland Bury me in you The following year, in 2016, he released Hum,” said Fraiser in an email promoting his debut album – “Runaway.” He was his work. named a Top Ten Artist in Charlottesville “I start production this summer down by TheOdysseyOnline that same year, and in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and signed has earned much more critical acclaim, on with the producer a couple weeks since. His music can also be found on back. This opportunity comes with high to reach out to my fans, family and instruction did you have? How do you iTunes and Spotify. distinction as the producer only produces friends to crowd fund the new record.” come up with the money to produce Take a listen to some of the songs on two to three records a year in which only Brother Neill is also a graduate of an album like this? Where do you find Runaway at GrantFrazierMusic.com – the best artists are picked. Loudoun Valley High School – class of collaborators? And, when you are ready songs like Bury Me in You, Stay Now, and “I’m also using my brother Neill 2013. to make an album, where is the actual Fly – and you’ll instantly understand why Frazier’s startup company, called Alma We asked Frazier how this music recording and mixing work done? the people who know Frazier’s music Mater, to raise the money. His startup thing works. How is a singer/songwriter Said Frazier, “Well, even as a kid ‘I can’t wait for album number two. serves as the platform for me as an artist like you “born?” What kind of musical CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 » BRMS National Science League 2019 Team Achieves National Recognition Blue Ridge ’s 7th and 8th Grade National Science League Team ranked first in the national competition. Aaron Apfeldorf, an 8th grade student at Blue Ridge, earned the rank of highest scoring student across the nation. The top 10 individual scores in each school represent the school’s team score. This year around 35 schools from around the country participated in the competition. The Blue Ridge Team is listed below.

Grade: 7th/8th Grade: 6 Photos by Douglas Graham/WLP. 50 Points Name 40 Points Name 47 Aaron Apfeldorf 37 Maxwell Riley 43 Edwin Kyle 36 Isabella Hortega America’s Routes 42 Sean Baxter 35 Rebecca Alvarez 41 Ellie Vest 35 Roberson documentary wins Emmy 41 Jack Thornton 35 Ted Lantow America’s Routes photog- The documentary introduces 41 William McFadden 34 Daniel Leskiv rapher Douglas Graham, and viewers to America’s Routes, a 39 Jacob Morroni 34 Marie Pyhtila ABC7/WJLA reporter Jay Korff team of journalists, historians 39 Griff Boehnlein 34 Meredith Kula have won an Emmy for their and preservationists who are 39 Amy Wood 33 David Bailey documentary “The Long Road leveraging stunning images, 38 Logan Moseley 33 Mircea Nemes Home” about the America’s meaningful storytelling, and 38 Sara Stanley Aaron Apfeldorf earned highest score across the nation. Routes project. historical research to encour- 38 Matthew Weisse The two journalists teamed age the public to hold on to this The National Science League test, which as well as students’ understanding of the up on the 8-minute documen- nearly 300-mile rural road net- consists of 40 (6th grade) and 50 (7th/8th scientific processes. The test is open to all tary, which captures the beau- work. grade) “General Science” multiple choice students and is administered in April of each ty and significance of Loudoun “These dusty byways tell questions, is based on factual knowledge school year. County’s unpaved roads and the stories of pioneers, wars, the fight to preserve them. CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 » 4 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 A joyous Fourth

BY SAMUEL MOORE-SOBEL precedence. For example, as Americans prepared to As for the road ahead, much remains to be done. The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. celebrate our nation’s birthday in 1826, “the era of There are injustices to correct, opportunities to I love the pageantry surrounding the celebration the Founders was almost over, and the create, and flawed leadership to adjust. Our nation, of our nation’s birthday. It transcends the barbe- had been mired in a period of partisan disunity,” ac- much like its Founders, is far from perfect. More than cues and parties, the hot dogs, and the day off from cording to . two centuries later, the work of improving our imper- work. On this day each year, we can come together Perhaps the same could be said about our current fect democracy lives on, offering every American an as Americans, regardless of political identification, time; undoubtedly, we are mired in a period of dis- opportunity to pick up the torch of our predecessors, ethnicity, or religion, to celebrate our unity. and carry it forward to right the ways in which their collective identity. That year, the 83-year-old Thomas Jefferson, de- vision fell short. No one ever said it would be easy. While much has changed since the spite various ailments and financial woes, penned In the same letter that Adams wrote to Abigail in founding of our nation, we celebrate beautifully patriotic words in what would be one of July 1776, he said, “I am well aware of Toil and Blood how our Founders once envisioned. his last letters. “All eyes are opened, or opening to and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Fireworks to commemorate the birth the rights of man,” he wrote. Such sentiments trans- Declaration, and support and defend these States.” MOORE-SOBEL of our nation were originally cham- form this day into more than simply a celebration. While he was likely referring to the war with Great pioned by our second President, John America’s birthday presents an opportunity to ex- Britain, his statement is no less true today. The suc- Adams. “I am apt to believe it will be celebrated, pound upon the vision of the Founders, serving as an cess of a democracy hinges on the careful and in- by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversa- exhortation for the continued pursuit of liberty for tentional actions of its people, those willing to get ry Festival…” Adams wrote to his wife Abigail, in a all. “For ourselves let the annual return of this day, up every day and go about the hard work of build- letter dated July 3, 1776. “It ought to be solemnized for ever refresh our recollections of these rights and ing a more prosperous tomorrow. Despite the loom- with Pomp and Parade…and illuminations from one an undiminished devotion to them,” Jefferson wrote. ing challenges, Adams was not without hope. “Yet End of this continent to the other from this Time for- Indeed, the pursuit of liberty and justice for all is through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing ward forever.” nowhere near over. Our Founders, however well in- Light and Glory,” Adams wrote. I often wonder what the Founders would think of tentioned, were flawed men, much like our current This July Fourth, 243 years after Adams penned the current state of our nation, if they were alive to see leaders. For example, Jefferson wrote about freedom those words, may we, too, believe that “through all what America has become. Would they be distressed in The Declaration of Independence, despite the the gloom,” we can see rays of light and glory. And by the problems threatening the state of our union? fact that he owned slaves. We have come a long way that alone is a reason to celebrate. It’s tempting to believe that our current state of since, but each succeeding generation must ensure affairs is unlike any that came before. Yet history re- that powerful ideals are followed by continued bold Samuel Moore-Sobel is a freelance writer. To read more peats itself. Our nation’s current partisan rancor has and creative actions. of his work, visit www.holdingontohopetoday.com JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 5

Purcellville’s green assets worth millions, says Fraser BY ANDREA GAINES concept – and related nutrient and At the June 25 work session the wetlands credits – represent the Purcellville Town Council discussed monetary value the market places the possibility of using the “carbon, on a variety of environmental assets, nutrient, and wetland credits” present including wetlands, clean water, in Town-owned assets, including forested land, open space, and the like. its 1,200 acre These places will never be GOVERNMENT watershed property, developed, since they are permanently to offset its debt. dedicated to other public uses: In earlier decades, the Town had land preservation, parks, wetland assumed a reduce-the-debt-through- preservation, wastewater treatment growth posture, planning to pay down processes, watershed protections, or its debt by building more homes, and open space. gobbling up the added water and sewer And, Purcellville, according to fees that came with those homes. Fraser, has millions of dollars worth Mayor Kwasi Fraser has taken the of the green assets available, if the Town in a different direction, setting proper mechanisms are in place, to up mechanisms to pay down the debt pay down the Town’s debt. by “monetizing” Town assets; put With respect to localities, Virginia simply, drawing on the cash value House Bill 2485, which goes into effect naturally present in the Town’s many July 1,2019, allows for the formation of underutilized assets – whether the an Industrial Development Authority, idea involves renting Town-owned or IDA to aggregate land owners land, selling carbon and nutrient towards creating a market for the sale credits, or in some cases selling off of carbon sequestration credits. Fraser assets no longer needed. has been researching this program for

The carbon sequestration credit CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 »

Why Wait? JULY SPECIALS

20% off $ off Product $ with any service off 2 2019002 10 any cut Color or with purchase of regular price adult cut highlights 2019001 FREEshampoo 2019004 with any service Bank of Charles Town 2019003 pk Tr Wink 1201 WOLF ROCK DR, STE 155 Berling Wolf Rock Dr 287 Chipotle PURCELLVILLE, VA

Dunkin Donuts op Dr T 571-707-7999 • supercuts.com

Colonial Hwy Green Coupon valid only at 1201 Wolf Rock Dr. location. Not valid with other offers. One coupon valid per customer. 7 Please present coupon prior to payment of service. ©2019 Supercuts Inc. Expires 7/31/19 6 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 “Planning, is Good” Envison Loudoun vignettes from a person who was paying attention

BY CHARLES HOUSTON that this planning process would be bad. hostility. have to do something!” I now turn the microphone over to Emil These sessions were mainly to check Statistics support anger. For the past Finagling was easy, so Tricky Ricky Faber of Faber College. If “Faber College” the “citizen input” box, but someone few decades, the County has frequently explained things to the Supervisors this eludes your memory, it was the fictional eventually tallied the responses. And, commissioned a Survey of Citizens, and way, “17 percent of citizen comments setting for the film, Animal House. Chaos surprise! in every survey the top two comments strongly supported EL. 18 percent did not. reigned there, just as it has here in were to stop the growth and ease the 65 percent offered specific suggestions Loudoun for nearly four years. Citizen Input congestion. Yet, during that time the [a la Featherbed Lane’s bridge] and their If consultants, planners and population has grown from around engagement with the project indicates My First Envision Meeting Supervisors may have wanted a citizen 100,000 to over 400,000. Wasn’t anybody support. Thus 82 percent of citizens Citizens wandered around looking at sentiment for more growth, or at least listening? like Envision Loudoun.” That statement maps on easels, each attended by fresh- something neutral; they were sadly stretched the truth so far that Barker’s faced County staffers. We were soon at mistaken. I circulated around the Tricky Ricky nose fell off before amazed Supervisors. tables, each with a easels, eavesdropped at other tables, The Envision Loudoun project was Some months later the word around OPINION County “facilitator,” and listened carefully at ours. Every run by the Director Planning, a bow-tied the Government Center was that talking about what we comment was against congestion and bureaucrat named Ricky Barker. 10,000- Envision “had come off the rails.” Barker wanted Loudoun to be. Slouching, be- residential growth. Some were general plus comments on EL ended up in his was soon fired. suited mystery men and women ringed and some were more specific, like “save department, panicking an upper level the room, patronizingly watching. the old bridge on Featherbed Lane.” I bureaucrat (perhaps him?) to screech, Two Long Years of Stakeholders Consultants! That was the first tip-off sensed a lot of underlying anger and “We can’t show these to the Board! We CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 » Action is needed on Gable landfill Dear Editor: creation of such landfills, which have mas- Municipal and private landfills are sub- Publisher & Editor queraded as personal recreational fields or ject to regulations. There is no reason why Valerie Cury The Audubon Society of Northern Vir- been approved under rough grading per- private landowners should be able to evade Creative Department ginia (ASNV) adds its voice to the chorus of mits, has the potential to cause significant such oversight by pretending that they are Pam Owens, Layout/Design organizations and private citizens who are irreversible damage to the environment not creating landfills. Advertising concerned about Loudoun County’s failure Based on public reports, the Gable land- The creation of a private landfill on the Sabine Bibb Tonya Harding to adequately regu- fill or “personal recreational field” in Ham- Gable Farm tract is even more objection- [email protected] [email protected] LETTER TO late private landfills ilton, Virginia contains more than 500,000 able, given that the site may have received 571-437-9953 703-314-5200 THE EDITOR in the county. The cubic yards of waste, including liquid waste. tax reductions under Loudoun County’s mission of ASNV’s Because the County does not monitor sur- Land Use assessment program, which is Here’s How to Reach Us 4500 members is to conserve and restore face water or groundwater the landfill has intended to encourage property owners to Email [email protected] or call 540-338-6200 natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, oth- the potential to cause substantial environ- keep their land in farm-related use and pre- Editor: er wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit mental damage not only to the property in serve open space. Aerial photographs of the (letters to the editor & press releases) of humanity and the earth’s biological di- question but to properties adjacent to the site clearly show that the property has been [email protected] versity. The County’s failure to prevent the landfill due to runoff into the watershed. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 » Special Editorial: Andrea Gaines – [email protected] Hot News Tips: Valerie Cury, 703-943-8806 – [email protected] — View From the Ridge — Webmaster: Data centers, water, energy, [email protected] and Loudoun’s future Loudoun County’s Mailing Address: PO Box 325, Purcellville, VA 20134-0325 Dear Editor: heart-breaking conundrum Copyright 2019 Blue Ridge Leader & Loudoun Today. All rights reserved. How do data centers in our County affect climate change? Big boxy data centers are springing up across the County, BY ANDREA GAINES seemingly overnight, on every vacant lot. Loudoun Coun- The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors has finally ty houses the highest concentration of data centers in the approved the 2019 Comprehensive Plan. blueridgeleader blueridgeleader.com world. Seventy percent of global Inter- The document will be tweaked and modified in the net traffic passes through Loudoun. coming days. And, the County’s all important Zoning We Welcome Your Letters To The Editor! LETTER TO THE EDITOR Data centers, which allow browsing, Ordinance will be adopted, filling in Submissions July be sent to: OPINION the details of how wide new sidewalks [email protected], or via mail to streaming, and communication using PO Box 325, Purcellville, VA 20134-0325 the Internet, cater to global needs. But, unfortunately, they need to be, how tall that new office Please include your name, address and phone number. also demand an inordinate amount of local water and power building will stand, how many parking spaces will be We reserve the right to edit submissions as necessary. resources. dedicated to that new mixed used residential/commercial Deadline for print edition is the third week center just approved, and so on. of each month, or, online any time. Energy for Loudoun Data Centers Each data center requires local energy and local water County Supervisors say that the plan is a balanced one; to operate, run, and cool its equipment. Most of the ener- protecting the best of Loudoun County and its historic gy comes from Dominion Virginia Power, the state’s largest communities and its irreplaceable natural spaces, while utility. Dominion’s current Integrated Resource Plan calls leaving not one cent of the billions of dollars worth of CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 » CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 » JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 7

LargestLargest Selection Selection Of Of QuartzQuartz & & Granite Granite BEAUTIFULBEAUTIFUL DESIGN DESIGN SHOWROOM SHOWROOM CountertopsCountertops & Kitchen& Kitchen Cabinets Cabinets Mon.Mon. – –Sat. Sat. 8am 8am - 6pm - 6pm SalesSSUUSalesM Mtoo MtooM EE R R toS Sto Ahandle AhandleLLEE 50 sq ft of QUARTZ or BEAUTIFUL DESIGN SHOWROOM 505050 sq sqsq ft offtft QUARTZofof QUARTZ or oror BEAUTIFUL DESIGN SHOWROOM GRANITE Countertops Countertops & Kitchen Cabinets GRANITEGRANITEGRANITE Countertops CountertopsCountertops Countertops & Kitchen Cabinets forfor only onlyfor $1,999 only $1,999 $1,999 for FREEonly Laser Template $1,999 FREEFREE Laser Laser TemplateFREE Template Sink Cutout Laser Template FREEFREEFREE Sink SinkCutoutFREE Cutout Sink Attachment FREEFREEFREE Sink Sink AttachmentSinkFREE AttachmentCutout Removal of Existing Countertops FREEFREEFREE Removal Removal Sink ofFREE AttachmentExisting Sealing of Existing Countertops Countertops FREEFREE Sealing Removal of Existing Countertops FREE SealingLimited number of colors and slabs available LimitedFREE number Sealing Callof colors us today and slabs to reserve available your slab 22446 Davis Dr. #109 • Sterling Limited number of colors and slabs available Call us today to reserve your slab 22446 DavisMon. Dr. – #109Sat. 8am • Sterling - 6pm CallLimited us number today of to colors reserve and slabs your available slab Mon. – Sat. 8am - 6pm Call us today to reserve your slab 703-956-9470 www.GraniteCenterVa.com703-956-9470 www.GraniteCenterVa.com 22446 Davis Dr. #109 • Sterling 22446Mon. Davis – Sat. Dr. #1098am -• 6pmSterling 703-956-9470Mon. – Sat. 8am - 6pm www.GraniteCenterVa.com703-956-9470 www.GraniteCenterVa.com 8 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

Just Like Nothing (else) on Earth: Round Hill

BY TIM JON remember him from my first visit to remember this part but I’m sure it Just as the mercurial James Dean their home in Round Hill (one of the old happened) opened the back door and lit reportedly felt he could play certain railroad buildings on Main Street) the himself a cigarette. Yes, Chris loved to pivotal movie scenes once only, I – in very first weekend I spent in Loudoun smoke; he and Dene shared a passion approaching this piece on County. I learned that Chris was – like for tobacco – among many other far a charming, little western myself- a retired professional actor (is less harmful pursuits. Their mutual Town - have an inner there ever such a thing, really?), and spirituality offered strong leadership sense that I need to pay he loved Shakespeare, great music and at their local church - the inclusive, homage to a dear friend, wonderful food. With these impressions Unitarian Universalist in the historic now gone from our midst in heart and mind, I learned little more little chapel on Gleedsville Road. Chris JON - at least in the physical about Chris until the wheels fell into screaming. Chris calmly and quietly sat and Dene loved humanitarianism, realm. place for him to ‘transfer’ to our station down at the board (ground zero of the sharing many local activities of good I first met Chris King as the life - a couple of years into my own tenure controls), flicked a few switches, maybe causes and good times. partner of Dene (Flodene) Hill - the at Wage. I vividly recall one of his first looked up a bit of information – then I remember Chris, the late Paul kind soul who had hired me - back in the actions: we had suddenly gone off the essentially cleaned out the carburetor, Draisey and I on September 11th, 2001. summer of 1997 - as the News Director air – the radio signal was on its back, turned the key in the ignition, and we Paul’s shift was supposed to end at at the local radio station in Leesburg - legs aloft – one of those crisis times were back on the air. He exhibited not nine o’clock that morning; well, you AM 1200 WAGE. Now Chris was working when everyone else was jumping up the least bit of excitement at this turn couldn’t have gotten him out of that for another station at that time, but I and down, pulling their hair out and of events, slowly got up – and (I don’t CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 »

— Ask Dr. Mike — By Michael Oberschneider, Psy.D. Should your teen get a job? At what point does getting a job make sense for you • Having a job as a teen teaches time management, your teen. As the old saying goes, “Idle time is and your teen? In Virginia, teens as young as 14 years which is also important to learn as your teen the devil’s workshop,” and this can be very true of age can work, albeit in a limited capacity, but it’s not ages out of childhood and transitions into young for many teens. uncommon for teens between the ages of 16 and 19 to adulthood. It’s important to note that your teen may not be ready have a part-time job – both during the summer and • Teens learn more about the value of a dollar to work when you’d like him or her to be; thus, being the school year. The benefits to working for teens are when they have to work for that dollar. Having sensitive to your teens social/emotional bandwidth and numerous, and I’ve listed the main ones here: a job teaches teens how to save or budget level of maturity developmentally is important before and spend money more responsibly. From filling out those applications. If you feel your teen is • Having a job as a teen pays off contributing to car expenses and a college fund, too socially anxious to hold a job, for example, perhaps academically. Research in this area of and to everything in between, having a job having him or her take on some volunteer work first study has repeatedly shown that teens teaches teens about money management. would be good practice and more manageable. who work actually do better in school. Lastly, if your teen is reluctant or slow to the moment More specifically, teens who work • Having a job as a teen helps with the DR. MIKE with applying to jobs, you may want to assist in the between 10 and 15 hours a week have development of interpersonal and social skills. application process. We as parents and adults know higher grades than teens who don’t work at all. As human beings we are social beings, so having One study even found that teens who work in high a job forces teens to learn how to successfully that getting a job doesn’t mean filling out an online school earn higher salaries later in life compared manage themselves with others in a work setting. application to just Top Golf or Game Stop only to wait and wait and wait to hear back. In my opinion, your to their non-working high school peers. • Having a job as a teen helps with structuring teen should fill out a lot of on-line applications, and • Having a job builds confidence in teens, which time more responsibly and constructively. also walk in to places that have posted help wanted in turn contributes to an increased sense of Beyond managing time with school work with a signs. And yes, most applications are on-line these responsibility and independence – all needed job, having a workplace commitment means less qualities for life after high school. down time in the afternoons and evenings for CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 »

Proudly featuring: JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 9

MOLD REMOVAL

BOS kicks Leesburg water GOT MOLD? Complete Concrete, Block, Brick, Foundation Repair and/or Sealant to Abate the Moisture Source system out of Town’s Land We do it all fromMoisture Damaged start Drywall, Carpet, to Baseboard, finish and Insulation Removal and Off-Site Disposal Kill 100% of Mold and Mold Spores, Scrub, and HEPA Vacuum SurfacesCall Today to • Repair Moisture Source Replace• Drywall,Remove Baseboards, Damaged and Insulation. Painting DrywallSchedule Also Available a FREE, NO OBLIGATION Concrete – Plumbing – Sealant Debris Off-Site In-Home Management Area We use MDF-500® - Our Patented Anti-Microbial Mold Killing Fogging Treatment • Treat to Kill All Mold / HEPA • Reinstall Drywall / Evaluation and BY ANDREA GAINES provided by the municipal system.” Vacuum MDF-500® Safely and HighlyBaseboard Effectively Eliminates All Mold, Spores, Allergens, Bacteria,Estimate Viruses, and Odors “It is extremely unusual for the BOS to After minor changes, the motion passed Our Patented Product MDF-500® make such a significant and important change 5-2-2, with Supervisors Tony R. Buffington Safely and EffectivelyCall Today Removes to Schedule a100% FREE, NO of OBLIGATION Mold In-Home Evaluation and Estimate (R-Blue Ridge), Ralph Buona (R-Ashburn), without any input from the affected governing Spores / Allergens / Improve Air Quality – body, the public, or the business community.” Matthew F. Letourneau ((R-Dulles), Ron Removes Bacteria / Viruses Green / Odors Solutions, LLC This is what Leesburg Meyer (R-Broad Run), and Suzanne Volpe www.greensolpro.com GOVERNMENT Mayor Kelly Burk (R-Algonkian) in favor. Geary Higgins 540-338-5869 said about the recent (R-Catoctin) and Chair Phyllis Randall (D- Green Solutions LLC www.GreenSolPro.com • 540-338-5869 move by the Loudoun County Board of At Large) abstained, and Supervisors Koran Supervisors (BOS) to make Loudoun Water T. Saines (D-Sterling) and Kristen Umstattd the preferred provider in the Leesburg Joint (D-Leesburg) opposed. Land Management Area, or JLMA. Shortly after the vote, the Coalition Spearheaded by Ralph Buona of Loudoun Towns, the leadership of (R-Ashburn), the decision began with a which includes Mayor Bridge Littleton motion that reads: “Due to the proximity of of Middleburg, Mayor Kwasi Frasier of central system water and wastewater systems Purcellville, Mayor Scott Ramsey of Round to the Leesburg JLMA, and in order to avoid Hill, Mayor Roger Vance of Hillsboro, Mayor out-of-town utility rates for County residents David R. Simpson of Hamilton, Mayor Nate and businesses, the central system shall Fontaine of Lovettsville, and Burk said this in be the presumed utility service provider in a letter to BOS Chair Randall: the Leesburg JLMA for new service put in “The Coalition of Loudoun Towns place after adoption of the Loudoun 2019 (COLT), representing the mayors of all seven Comprehensive Plan. In the event central towns in Loudoun County, strongly objects system water declines or is unable to provide to the motions recently passed by the Board utility service to the Leesburg JLMA, or of Supervisors that would drastically change any portion thereof, utility service may be CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 »

Leesburg, $3,395,000 Berryville, $280,000 Your Roof Done Right! Custom Home in Creighton Farms Private Yard, 2 FPs, Nice Location Best price, artisan workmanship, in your timeframe!

Roofing Realtor’s Choice! “I cannot say enough Bluemont, $350,000 [about John, Owner], 1ac, Stone FP, Updates, River Access SOLDCharles Town Siding as he exceeds all of our client’s expectations. His attention to detail Windows is great, and he is a true professional.” Julie Brodie, Owner/ Gutters Realtor, Engel & Voelkers, Lansdowne/Tyson’s Doors

Hail, storm SOLDLake Holiday SOLDHamilton damage insurance claim

specialists LICENSED IN VA & WV [email protected] Veteran Owned 540.533.7453 AST Roofing & Home Improvements WWW.MARCYC.COM @MARCYCANTATORE Call 571-233-8175 for FREE ESTIMATE INSTAGRAM @MARCYCSELLS Ask about our Customer Loyalty Program 10 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 11

As an early lead-in to the local November elections including those candidates running for the Board of Supervisors, the Blue Ridge Leader interviewed local businessman John Whitbeck, who is running for Chair of the BOS.

John Whitbeck, candidate make an impact and improve the for Chairman of the Loudoun quality of life of all Loudoun res- County Board of Supervisors, idents. has been a resident of Loudoun BRL: The Comp Plan 2019 for nearly 20 dramatically increases housing GOVERNMENT years. John densities, transfers land from and his wife the Rural Policy Area to the have three daughters who attend Transition Policy Area, and public school in Loudoun Coun- changes zoning to provide ty. He started his small business, more land for data centers. Whitbeck Cisneros McElroy, P.C., Where do you stand on each of in Leesburg, a law firm where these issues? John practices family and law. John is running for JW: As Chair, I will be commit- Chair to advocate for the local ted to a balanced plan for devel- issues affecting Loudoun resi- opment that will put infrastruc- dents. John Whitbeck ture first, provide more attainable housing for our elderly, working Blue Ridge Leader: What John Whitbeck and family. families, and the next generation, made you decide to run for while preserving our open space in Chair of the Board of Supervi- organizations, both private and public, I have been inti- the west. sors, and how does your past experience prepare mately involved with the issues affecting our County. I am committed to preservation of our rural west. I you for this role? I decided to enter the race for Chair because the issues support a transfer of development rights program that John Whitbeck: I have been a resident of Loudoun affecting our elderly, our working families, and our chil- reduces the amount of “by-right” development in west- County for almost 20 years. My wife Laura and I have dren are important to my family. Issues like taxes, high ern Loudoun. My opponent led the effort to convert Ru- three daughters who attend Loudoun public schools. As tolls, land use, and school safety affect every resident of ral Policy Area to the Transition Policy Area for greater a small business owner and a member of numerous local this county. This position is, I believe, the best place to CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 » Do you have a dream? Let us help you build it!

• Free on-site consultation • Competitive pricing and can help with financing • Built to your specifications • No cheap or discount materials— but still offer the most competitive pricing in the industry • Where honesty, Integrity, and quality still matters

5280 Lee Hwy, Warrenton, VA (888) 919-4797 www.customgaragesofvirginia.com 12 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 New Comp Plan a roadmap We Take to massive growth

BY ANDREA GAINES Middleburg, Lovettsville, and Hillsboro Care of On June 20, the Loudoun County Board suffered a warning shot just days before the of Supervisors voted to approve a new Comp Plan vote. Comprehensive Plan. In a sweeping and unexpected move, the Your Trees The 8 to 1 vote – with Leesburg District BOS wrested control of water rights in the Supervisor Kristen Umstattd the sole Leesburg JLMA (Joint Land Management dissenter – came after a tumultuous, three- Area), making the County’s Loudoun Water Tree Trimming & Removal year Envision Loudoun process. system the preferred provider in the area, EXPERTS Stump Grinding As the draft document on the Loudoun pushing out the Town’s long-standing County website notes, municipal system. Hardwood Mulch GOVERNMENT the County’s original The move by the County has broad, if “Choices & Changes” plan uncertain, implications for how the newly ARBOGAST LAWN – adopted in 1991 – was “written when the approved Comp Plan will play out. Any new county was largely undeveloped.” development in Leesburg, for example, is & TREE INC. “By 2001,” the authors say, “The County now mandated to be served by the County 530 East G Street, Purcellville was feeling the effects of a 97 percent water system. 540-338-5714 | 540-454-0514 (c) population increase …’’ It is unclear how the 2,200 acres in the In adopting the 2019 Plan, the BOS was Purcellville JLMA, the 1,450 acres in the Round [email protected] clearly intent on not only addressing that Hill JLMA, or other undeveloped areas around Licensed & Insured dramatic population increase, but, urged on Loudoun’s western towns will be impacted. by the development community, welcoming Your Local Lawn & Lawn Local Your whatever growth might come the County’s How big? No one knows. way, decades from now. From the beginning, BOS Chair Phyllis

Landscape Randall (D-At Large) pledged to produce Warning shot a plan that took everyone’s interests into Loudoun’s self-governing towns, including consideration. Leesburg, Round Hill, Hamilton, Purcellville, CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 »

Please come enjoy our “Vineyard in Paradise” at our 14th Annual Key West Fest! Enjoy wine tastings, cra vendors, island inspired food for sale and more. Date: Saturday-July13th Time: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm Live Music with The Archives – 11:30am to 3pm Raymond Charles & The Caribbean Authentics – 3pm to 6pm

Upcoming Events Mimosa Sundays Fourth Fridays 4th Annual BBQ & 11am – 6pm 5-9pm Bluegrass August 6/30, 7/28, 8/25 & 9/29 6/28, 7/26, 8/23 & 9/27 10th 11am-6pm

36888 Breaux Vineyards Ln, Purcellville 540-668-6299 | breauxvineyards.com JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 13 Wexton hosts gun safety town hall BY VALERIE CURY his mother did not. Boardman pointed Wexton said she supports firearm safety the public in case of a shooter. One Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton out that although firearm courses are courses and training for person called gun-free zones “nothing (VA-10) hosted a gun safety town beneficial, she believes they are not permits. but killing zones” because if there is an hall meeting on June 22 at J. Michael appropriate for all age groups. She said The owner of GirlOnFire, a personal active shooter, an armed person on the Lunsford Middle School in Chantilly. The that studies show that among younger safety and firearms training academy, scene is really “the first line of defense. event was attended by over 150 people, students such classes could increase Jody Makia, said it’s all about prevention. The police are minutes away when and featured a panel of three – David dangerous curiosity. “It’s about prevention, not aftermath. I seconds count,” he said. Chipman, former special agent for the Wexton has introduced a new bill talk to schools every day who are not Attendees expressed different and Bureau of Alcohol, called Empowering Law Enforcement willing to put in metal detectors … I talk sometimes heated opinions on how GOVERNMENT Tobacco, Firearms for Safer Firearm Transfers Act. The bill to legislators, and it’s more about the to handle prevention of gun violence. and Explosives, and would allow local law enforcement to rhetoric than solutions.” Wexton acknowledged that it is an now senior policy advisor at gun-control block sale or transfer of any weapon that Some members of the audience said issue people feel strongly about, but lobbying group Giffords; Christian is regulated under the National Firearms that guns should be allowed in gun-free emphasized the need to work together Heyne, former legislative director at the Act. zones, so that gun holders could protect to find solutions. Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, and now This proposal would also ban gun vice president of policy at gun-control suppressors. Suppressors (silencers) are lobbying group Brady; and pediatrician used to mitigate the sound produced Dr. Barbara Boardman, assistant when a firearm is discharged. Opponents Sweet and Sour Cherries Are Ripening!

professor and clinical instructor at of the measure say that it is unnecessary, Georgetown University and George since real-life suppressors are far less Washington University. effective than those commonly seen “Recently what happened in Virginia in movies. Currently, any person who Beach shows just how prevalent this wants to own a suppressor must obtain issue is, and how we need to find a approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, solution,” said Wexton. “Today is about Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, pay a raising awareness, having an honest $200 tax, pass a background check, and conversation, and looking to find notify the chief law enforcement officer solutions to the challenges we face,” she where the applicant lives. A suppressor said. was used in the Virginia Beach shooting In Chipman’s segment, he said a high which killed 12 people. school senior can attend a gun show Wexton also said that it is the first For Produce and Farm Updates and purchase the same type of rifle that time in decades that there are universal SWAT teams use without any vetting. mandatory background checks, and Most striking in Heyne’s segment, was that there is an appropriations bill that Call (540) 338-6642 or visit a personal anecdote he related to the includes $50 million to research gun audience of how gun violence affected violence. www.CrookedRunOrchard.com his family. Fourteen years ago, both A question from the audience dealt Across from Harris Teeter Shopping Center on his parents were shot by a neighbor. with putting educational classes on Main Street Purcelville, right after the Traffic Circle His father survived the incident, but firearms and safety in the schools. 14 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

Freedom for all … on the water SMALL Paddle NOVA • River Active • River Riders If you are looking for a little adventure manner. kayaks, and three different trip options BUSINESS in the Loudoun County area, consider Your experience can last for a few are available, based on your experience these three great outfits that can get hours or longer depending on the and “desire for adventure.” The kayak GRAPEVINE you out on the water – free as a fish – package you choose. Families, singles, trips also come with shuttle service. on a paddleboard, kids and groups are welcome based upon River Active is located at 3322 Lockes in a canoe, in a eligibility criteria designed to keep every Mill Road in Berryville. 888 906-9789, To have your small business BUSINESS kayak … whatever safe and secure. www.riveractive.com­­ featured in our suits your fancy. Each company has a The company’s instructors and tour Small Business Grapevine, particular niche, and offers its customers guides have a plethora of experience A “family adventure resort” contact Andrea Gaines via email full disclosure on the safety training, – from the Baja Peninsula in Mexico to Wow. A zip line right along the river at [email protected]. watersport instruction and other Virginia Beach. with a beautiful view of the Potomac and certifications their staff specializes in. Call Paddle NOVA at 571 293-1191, to surrounding mountains. start your excursion. Details on offerings, That’s one of the more special offerings THEME FOR AUGUST You pick the place and camps – including yoga on the river! of a company called River Riders – in “Stay Cool” With Paddle NOVA you book – can be found at www.paddlenova.com. addition to rafting, and tubing. They your experience and then company also have an Ariel Adventure Park and THEME FOR SEPTEMBER professionals meet you at your agreed- Active in the river offer lodging and meals. Mountain “Teach Your Children Well” upon location – whether it be Algonkian River Active is a Berryville company biking can be a part of the outdoor Regional Park, Kephart Bridge Landing, offering river tubing and kayaking. adventure mix if you like, and fishing. THEME FOR OCTOBER Whites Ford Regional Park, or Point of For tubing, adventurers check in at the Lodging can take the form of RV or tent Rocks – with all of the equipment you River Active location and are then taken camping, campground cabins, vacation “Fall Forward” need. to the location where you will enter the rental homes, or accommodations at the The company specializes in stand- Shenandoah River and float back down River Riders Resort at Clarion Inn. up paddleboard and kayak tours and to the company’s private riverbank River Riders is located at 408 Alstadts instruction. You rent the equipment access point. Hill Road in Harpers Ferry. 304 535-2663, and Paddle NOVA guides/instructors The company also offers kayaking www.riverriders.com, trips@riverriders. show you how to use it in a safe and fun trips by reservation. Single and tandem com. JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 15

… where the cows in the pasture are as 2486 Longmarsh Road happy and well cared for as you are BY ANDREA GAINES 24 x 48 “north barn,” and other farming amenities. The original owners of the custom-built log home at 2486 And, finally, they pulled it all together, gave it a sense of Longmarsh Road in Berryville, had a dream. place, and added more functionality by highlighting his- Let’s take these beautiful 124 acres and make it our own. toric Revolutionary War stone walls already present on the And, not just for us – but for the cattle, and the nature, and land, preserving and enhancing a year-round pond, adding the history that we want to share this space with us. a private gated entrance, and building a three-car detached So, they built an inviting and expansive log home crafted garage. of northern pine from – In 2007, the owners added a new master and large upper with an open-concept kitchen and liv- bedroom with an enormous closet, and a larger bathroom. REAL ESTATE ing room, a wood-burning fireplace and The property has been used for a 40-head cattle oper- heatalator, a main level master suite, ation, and has all of those extra features really prepared and a guestroom/office/nursery. They used reclaimed barn property owners will appreciate – including back up heat wood for paneling, and put in a loft overlooking the main sources, an underground cistern with hand pump, a solar level. They added more bedroom areas, beautiful baths and powered well in the pasture, a windmill for pumping wa- multiple laundry rooms, and a gorgeous stone patio. And, ter to the cows, steel security gates, and 19”-thick exterior they put in top-notch appliances, heating and cooling sys- walls on the home. tems, and windows to complete the package. For people who understand what it is like to live on a Then, they turned 2486 Longmarsh Road into the one-of- modern-rural piece of property of this size, with these kinds a-kind property that it is by adding hundreds and hundreds of amenities, it’s not just what has gone on here before that of feet of fencing, state-of-the-art livestock watering sys- intrigues … but how this property might fit into their own tems, cattle guards, outbuildings, wells, corrals, pastures, and family’s future dreams. a loafing barn and feed room. An insulated chicken house Come take a tour with John Constant of Atoka Properties, was built, along with a Wedgecore 50 x 100 steel building, a 703 585-6278.

2486 Longmarsh Road, Berryville MLS#: VACL110508 Year Built: 1985 Beds/Baths: 3-4 bedrooms, 3 full baths Total Acreage: 124 List Price: $1,850,000 Agent: John Constant, Associate Broker, Atoka Properties­­ Website: www.bluemontproperty.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 703 585-6278 16 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

NOW OPEN FIRE WORKS JOINS THE FAMILY NEW CASCADES LOCATION!

NOW OPEN Fire Works Pizza Cascades 21475 Epicerie Plaza Ste. 100 Sterling, Virginia 20164 571-313-0020 • fireworkspizza.com Fire Works Pizza Courthouse • 2350 Clarendon Blvd. Arlington, Virginia 22201 • 703.527.8700 • fireworkspizza.com Fire Works Pizza Leesburg •••• 201 Harrison St. SE, Leesburg, Virginia • 703. 779.8400 • fireworkspizza.com JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 17 ‘They don’t do the job; I, do’ Nigel Preece, Premier Computers BY ANDREA GAINES Every small business has its own niche. That special something thing that sets it apart from its competitors and keeps clients and customers com- ing back. Keeps its customers loyal. For Nigel Preece of Premier Comput- ers, that something is very simple: prob- lem solving. Problem solving through ex- BUSINESS pertise, getting to the root of what is both- ering your personal computer, or your business’s communications system, or, the connection between your computer and phone – “all of it,” says Preece. Preece attended Monroe Technology, Premier Computer Services earning an A+ Certification there. Application Install Office Organization He opened his first small business in Attempt Data Recovery Networking the technology arena when he was just Backup and Transfer of Powerline Networking 21 years old. Data (Movies, Music, Printer Setup Pictures) According to this techno-geek, the Printer Troubleshooting Cable Runs best companies out there, even small Computer Memory Computer Tune Up and Upgrades ones like his, step in and solve peoples’ Cleaning Reload Operating problems when others have, in effect, Computer Upgrades System and Drivers left them in the dust. Computer Training Home Network Setup/ Computer Setup Configuration “Our niche?” said Preece, “Well, we Consulting Wireless Network get called when other companies have Hard Drive Install Installation tried to solve a customer’s problem, and LCD Screen VOIP Solutions failed. Replacement Quickbooks File Sharing “We handled 1600 service calls last Malware “Spyware/ VM Ware​​ Virus” Removal Service​ Agreements year,” said Preece. “We’ve got capaci- Modem Troubleshooting/ ty. We also have a high retention rate Replacement – customers stay with us”.” Premier Computers will do the things data, and the hard-wiring side of things you probably can do but hate to do – like – including wireless network setup, LCD installing or de-installing applications, screen replacements, and cable runs. or making sure your data is backed up. Some of Preece’s local clients include They do the things that get a little Purcellville Auto and Tire, Country Ter- trickier and can cost you a lot of time mite, Cabinet Showplace, and Farr Con- and money if you get it wrong – such as struction. data recovery, or setting up a new back- He also serves the home computer up system. user, and people who sometimes tele- And, they do the things that most commute, relying on a home office to people and business owners would get their work done. consider to be totally outside of their Whomever the client, Preece says expertise – such as the transference of CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 » 18 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 Display campaign signs Loudoun County Short-Term with care in Loudoun rental registration opens July 1 Throughout the election season, way and property lines. The maximum Operators of short-term residential per violation. Loudoun County reminds residents of size of a campaign sign is 32 feet. The fee rental property in Loudoun County If a property was registered as a the importance of following the rules for filing a Zoning Permit Application is are required to register their property short-term rental in 2018, but is no and guidelines covering campaign signs. $10. every year with the longer being used for that purpose, county. The regis- operators do not have to re-register or Location: Generally, signs may be Questions about campaign sign GOVERNMENT displayed on private property with permits may be submitted to the county tration period be- take any further action. permission of the through Loudoun Express Request. gins July 1, 2019. Annual registrations A short-term residential rental is will be active through June 30, 2020. the provision of a room or space that is GOVERNMENT property owner. Safety: Loudoun County reminds Unauthorized removal everyone of the importance of calling Short-term residential rental prop- suitable or intended for occupancy for of campaign signs is considered a crime. 811 before digging. Virginia state law erties that were registered in 2018 or dwelling, sleeping, or lodging purpos- No signs are permitted in a Virginia requires anyone who digs to notify properties that have not yet been reg- es, for a period of fewer than 30 con- Department of Transportation right of Virginia 811 before digging to identify istered must be registered during the secutive days, in exchange for a charge way or within five feet of the right of the location of underground cables, registration period that begins July 1, for the occupancy. way. Signs placed in the right of way are wires and facilities. Damage caused by 2019. A link to the registration form and subject to confiscation and disposal by improper digging can be dangerous and There is no cost to register a short- more information about the registra- authorized personnel. costly. More information is online at term rental property. Operators who tion process may be found at loudoun. Permit Process: Campaigns va811.com. fail to register may face a fine of $500 gov/ShortTermRentals. should apply for a zoning permit for Live in a Town: Sign regulations the placement of campaign signs may differ within Loudoun County’s throughout the county. Campaign incorporated towns. Contact the signs are designated as “temporary” appropriate town offices regarding Unmarked graves and burial signs per Section 5-1204(D)(5)(a) of the placement of campaign and other Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning temporary signs within towns. sites to be given a name Ordinance. As part of the Zoning Permit More information about campaign BY ANDREA GAINES Application, a graphic is required signs and other campaign materials can the more than 200 active and historic showing the dimensions of the signs be found at loudoun.gov/CampaignSigns. A new online tool debuted by the cemeteries and burial grounds already along with a map of the property showing More information about the upcoming County in June will give residents, identified as present in Loudoun. the location of the sign on the property election is online at loudoun.gov/ historians, genealogists, and educators It will also enable individuals and as well as the distance from the right of JunePrimary. a way to electronically search a list of CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 » JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 19 Loudoun's Local Businesses

EXPERIENCE

THE DIFFERENCE Discount off original price. Marked Items only. Sales ends 77/29/19./30/17.

25 Years of Award Winning Dentistry Call us today: 540-338-0046 Book an appointment online: www.roundhillsmiledesign.com

r ou open fo r 12th ow rcellv sea N in Pu ille!!! son

Auto • Home • Business • Life Call us for a quote today.

Nikki Englund Purcellville, VA [email protected] 540-338-1130

S882 Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. 141 W. MAIN ST. 107 S. KING ST. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance. PURCELLVILLE LEESBURG com for company licensure and territory information.

COME GROW WITH US! We’re looking for friendly folks who want to help local businesses with advertising.

Inquire by email: [email protected] 20 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019 Local officials celebrate grand opening of The Orion Anderson story On June 19 Loudoun County unveiled its first ever Kirkpatrick Farms Fire and Rescue Station memorial to a lynching victim. The ceremony was performed Officials from Loudoun -Coun on the day, more than 150 years ago, that all enslaved people ty Fire and Rescue, the Loudoun here found out that they were free – in 1865. County Board of Supervisors and The memorial commemorates the life of 19th Century County Admin- Loudoun County resident Orion Anderson, a 14-year old GOVERNMENT istration joined African American teenager murdered first respond- GOVERNMENT by an angry mob on the day before ers, residents and other local lead- Halloween, Oct. 30, 1889 in Leesburg. ers on Wednesday, June 26, for the The 14-year old had been accused of “scaring” a white girl. official Grand Opening Ceremony Arrested and held in jail before his trial, newspaper reports for the newest of the County’s 20 from the time say that a mob of some two-dozen people took fire and rescue stations. Anderson by force from the jail where he was being held, The Kirkpatrick Farms Fire hung him and shot him at a nearby freight station. That and Rescue Station is located at in the construction and opening of plaque will be permanently dis- station no longer exists, but Anderson’s memorial will now 41380 Gardenia Drive in Aldie on Kirkpatrick Farms Fire and Rescue played at the lobby entrance of the forever mark the spot. a 6.94-acre parcel of land. The Station No. 27 and thanked all of Kirkpatrick Farms Fire and Rescue Anderson was from the village of Hamilton. Relatives and 17,874 sq. foot facility houses an the first responders that will call Station. descendants of Mr. Anderson still live in . Engine, Advanced Life Support this station home. “The Kirkpatrick Farms station It is not often described. But, the profoundly violent act of Ambulance and Tanker that are In lieu of a ribbon cutting, Fire will provide round the clock emer- lynching was as grizzly as it was common for a certain period staffed 24 hours a day, seven days and Rescue personnel and County gency services to the residents and in American history. According to scholars, nearly 4,750 a week. leadership participated in a tra- visitors of this rapidly growing people were lynched between 1882 and 1968 in the United County Administrator Tim ditional “uncoupling ceremony” corridor of Loudoun County,” stat- States, including 3,400+ African Americans and more than Hemstreet emceed the event with replacing the standard ribbon and ed Chief of the Loudoun County 1,290 whites, as mobs took “justice into their own hands” Loudoun County Board of Super- scissors with two sections of fire Combined Fire and Rescue System, and murdered people accused of a variety of crimes – mostly visors Chair Phyllis Randall, Blue hose. A bronze plaque memorial- Keith Johnson. “The addition of black – bypassing the criminal justice system. Ridge District Supervisor Tony izing the dedication date, current this station will increase emergen- Mr. Anderson’s memorial will now forever stand as a Buffington and System Chief Keith Loudoun County Board of Super- cy coverage and reduce response reminder to everyone who passes by the spot of what he Johnson addressing the crowd. visors and County Administration, times to the new and existing and his family suffered. His is the first of three lynching Each speaker touted the hard work along with the design team was housing developments, schools memorials that will be installed to mark victims of of all the County agencies involved presented to Chair Randall. The and businesses in this area.” documented lynchings in Loudoun County.

LOUDOUN COUNTYL OAUDDOUULNT C ODUANTYY CADEULNT TDAEYR CESN T ERS For Seniors with Physical LimitationsFor Seniors with or Physical Memory Limitations Loss or Memory Loss Our licensed adult day Our licensed adult day centers provide:  A safe, social environment centers provide: with therapeutic activities   Respite for caregivers A safe, social environment needing support & free time with therapeutic activities  Reasonable sliding scale fees  Respite for caregivers LOUDOUN COUNTY ADULT DAY CENTERS needing support & free time L OUForOfferingD SeniorsO engagingUN Cwith activities,O UPhysicalN individualizedTY LimitationsADU personalLT Dor care,A MemoryY nutritious CEN Loss lunchTE RS LOandForU snacks,D SeniorsOU exercise,N withCO medicationPhysicalUNTY administration,ALimitationsDULT D healthorA YMemory monitoringCEN TLoss EandR S  Reasonable sliding scale feesOur licensedlimited adult transportation. day Open weekdays from 7:30AM to 5:30PM. For Seniors with Physical Limitations or Memory Loss centersOur licensedPurcellville provide: adult day Ashburn Leesburg  centersAco safe,Our-located licensed socialprovide: w/ Carver environment adult Center day off Loudoun County Pkwy near Leesburg Airport withcenters200 therapeutic Willie provide: Palmer Wayactivities 45140 Bles Park Drive 16501 Meadowview Ct.  A safe, social environment  Respite571 -for258 caregivers-3402 571-258-3232 703-771-5334 Offering engaging activities, individualizedwithOurA therapeutic safe,licensed social personal adult environment activities day care, centers nutritious provide: lunch needingwith therapeuticsupport & activitiesfree time and snacks, exercise, medication Respite •administration, A safe, for social caregivers environment health with monitoring therapeutic activities and  Reasonable Respite for sliding caregiversVideo scale online fees at: www.loudoun.gov/adultday Administered needing• Respite by Loudoun support for County caregivers &Area free Agency time onneeding Aging, Loudoun support County Department & free of Parks, time Recreation & Community Services limited transportation. Open weekdays• Reasonable needing support from sliding & 7:30AMfree scale time fees to 5:30PM.  Reasonable Reasonable sliding sliding scale scale fees fees Purcellville AshburnOffering engaging activities, individualizedLeesburg personal care, nutritious lunch and snacks, exercise, medication administration, health monitoring and co-located w/ Carver Center off LoudounOffering CountylimitedOffering engaging transportation. engaging Pkwy activities, activities, Open individualized individualizednear weekdays Leesburg personal personal from 7:30AM care,Airport care, nutritious tonutritious 5:30PM. lunch lunch and snacks, exercise, medication administration, health monitoring and 200 Willie Palmer Way 45140 Blesand Park snacks, Drive exercise, medication16501 administration, Meadowview health monitoringCt. and Purcellvillelimitedlimited transportation. transportation. Open OpenAshburn weekdaysweekdays from from 7:30AM 7:30AM to to5:30PM.Leesburg 5:30PM. 571-258-3402 571-258-3232 703 -771-5334 co-locatedPurcellville Purcellvillew/ Carver Center off LoudounAshburnAshburn County Pkwy nearLeesburgLeesburg Leesburg Airport 200co Willie-located Palmer w/ Carver Way Center 45140off Loudoun Bles County Park Drive Pkwy near16501 Leesburg Meadowview Airport Ct. co-located w/ Carver Center off Loudoun County Pkwy near Leesburg Airport 571200-258 Willie- 3402Palmer Way 57145140- Bles258 Park-3232 Drive 16501703 Meadowview-771-5334 Ct. 200 Willie Palmer Way 45140 Bles Park Drive 16501 Meadowview Ct. Video online at: www.loudoun.gov/adultday571-258-3402 571-258 -3232 703-771-5334 571-258-3402 571-258-3232 703-771-5334 Administered by Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging, Loudoun County DepartmentVideo online of Parks, at: www.loudoun.gov/adultday Recreation & Community Services Administered by Loudoun CountyVideo Area Agency online on Aging, at: Loudounwww.loudoun.gov/adultday County Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services Administered by LoudounVideo County Area online Agency on at: Aging, www.loudoun.gov/adultday Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services Administered by Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging, Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 21 – Actor’s profile – Rachel Louis, Suzy Alden, and Rosemary Thoburn of “All for the Union”

BY ANDREA GAINES challenges.” ” “What you hope in casting a show, is that ac- So, who are these talented actors? … tors will bond with each other during the run. Rachel Louis, as Lida Dutton What Director Jenna Powell and I have in this production is an entire cast with those skills – in Louis in her own words: “I’m about particular three leads who take acting seriously, to start my senior year of college. I’m at are seriously talented, and know how to come to- Shenandoah Conservatory double majoring gether to create an excellent production.” in both the Acting and Stage Management This is how Meredith Bean McMath, Manag- BFA programs. Next May I’ll finish the ing Director of Run Rabbit Run Productions, Inc. acting degree, and then one more semester and the playwright of All to finish the Stage Management program.” COMMUNITY for the Union described How does Louis see her character, Lida the wonderful dynamic Dutton. Who is she? between actors Rachel Louis, Suzy Alden, and “Lida is a woman ahead of her time,” Rosemary Thoburn in the theatre company’s said Louis. “Witty, clever, a gifted writer powerful drama, All for the Union. Photo by Craig Thoburn and speaker, and a not-so-secret romantic, The true-to-life play tells the story of Virginia’s L to R: Mrs. Dutton (Penny Hauffe), Lida Dutton (Rachel Louis), Lizzie Dutton (Suzy Alden), Sarah Lida leads the girls in creating The Water- Steer (Rosemary Thoburn) and Annie Dutton (Isabella Krimsky). first female journalists – sisters Lida and Lizzie ford News. Lida is a true patriot, ready and Dutton and friend Sarah Steer – and the small, willing to sacrifice comfort and safety to “The theme of a divided nation, brother pro-Union newspaper they started during the further the Union cause, the abolition of against brother, resonates strongly in to- Suzy Alden, as Lida’s sister, Lizzie Alden Civil War, right here in Loudoun County. slavery, and the reformation of the Union. day’s political atmosphere. As Lida hopes in her own words: Lida Dutton met her future husband during Upheld by her Quaker morals and a strong that her writing will help boost the Union this time. Lizzie Dutton lost her fiancé to the war. “I graduated from college a few years ago sense of family, friendship, community, and soldiers’ resolve, I hope our play and my per- And, Sarah Steer became a teacher, serving the and have since been pursuing a career in country, Lida does exactly what she sets out formance do the same for our audience. My children of former slaves, at what we know today performing arts. For the last two and a half to do … ” favorite would have to be one of Maggie’s as Waterford’s Second Street School. lines. Maggie’s fiancé is a Confederate sol- years, I have been working professionally as As McMath told us, the three actors who bring an actor and scenic artist in the D.C. metro Does this character parallel your own ider. When he and Lida’s fiance, a Union sol- the stories of these three women to the stage, area. I also work as a teacher, living histo- life and/or interests in any way, and dier, pull their guns on each other, Maggie also “know how to bring the audience with them ry interpreter at museums, and as a real life what is your favorite line in the play? says to him ‘You’re asking me to hate what through pinnacle scenes of love, loss and other you hate! I’m asking you to love what I love!’ CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 »

What's In Your Water? T I P O F T H E M O N T H If you're on public water you'll Request a FREE in-home water analysis! soon get your annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). Go with "The Flow!" Call Today! This Water Quality report allows us to learn more about our drinking water. If your water supply is from a PRIVATE WELL 703-537-5904 the EPA regulations that protect public drinking water systems PLUMBING OR AC REPAIR* do not apply. Make sure your water is safe by having it tested each year for total coliform bacteria and other contaminates. ave $$7755 S Up to $35 OFF - Any Repair up to $299 $50 OFF - Any Repair $300 to $499 $75 OFF - Any Repair over $500 *Limit 1. Does not apply to diagnostic. Cannot be combined with other discount offer or applied to past service. Expires 7/31/19 Private Well Owners BACTERIA TESTING $$114499 STATE APPROVED TEST 3 Day Turn Around! Offer Expires 7/31/19

Local - Family Owned - Guaranteed Satisfaction - A+ Rated with the BBB - Referrals - Great Customer Service! Save $100 on Water Treatment! 12 Cardinal Park Drive #107, Leesburg, Va 20175 | www.meflow.com | 703-537-5904 22 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

“ALL FOR THE UNION”, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 I also try not to suffer driven, Sarah is uncertain. Lida is and those that put down others. passionate and romantic, and Sarah Ladies board of princess and tea party hostess! But, I really love Lida’s line, ‘I wish to is more practical … Her character my life isn’t all just about being an take life as it is, a real matter-of-fact arc helps to illustrate just how far actor. I love exploring the outside, thing, and do it justice.’ If you’re these women were pushed emo- Inova awards being with my family, and learning asking for a line from Lizzie, I’d tionally in the trials of war.” about dinosaurs.” say I enjoy, ‘My dear sister, being Does this character parallel your engaged is only half a wish. And, How does Alden see her charac- own life and/or interests in any scholarships it isn’t hard to win a Union soldier. ter, Lizzie Dutton. Who is she?: way, and what is your favorite They stand us up next to the rebel line in the play? The Ladies Board of Inova Loudoun Hospital has “Lizzie Dutton is the oldest of girls and see right away we have all recently awarded 45 nursing scholarships, totaling the Dutton girls, and therefore tries our teeth.’ ” “I’ve been told that I naturally $104,050, to nurses who live and/or work in Loudoun to be the most responsible. She is give off a schoolteacher impres- Rosemary Thoburn, as Sarah County. Recipients are enrolled in certainly the most grounded, head- sion. When I read Sarah’s lines for Steer Thoburn in her own words: COMMUNITY LPN, BSN, MSN, and DNP programs out-of-the-clouds, practical of the the first time I fell in love because at 17 different schools, including The sisters, but still likes to poke fun and “I am Dean of Students at Fair- she also appreciated good gram- Academies of Loudoun. Awards range from $1,000 to use her wit as much as any Dutton. fax Christian School, a private K-12 mar and writing. One of my favorite $2,850. She is fiercely loyal and protective. school founded by my grandpar- lines comes when Sarah is trying to Since the nursing scholarship program began in 1959, She also doesn’t tolerate people of ents in 1961. When I was cast for get Maggie’s Confederate beau out The Ladies Board has awarded nearly $1,875,000 to a weak constitution, or those who the role of Sarah Steer, an aspiring of the house, so she insists that he over 1,200 applicants. The program began with a single take advantage of others. But Liz- schoolteacher, I was able to pull walk Maggie home. He rightfully grant of $400 and was started to provide supplemental zie loves life and people, which is from my own family’s deep passion becomes concerned of what the funds to worthy nursing students. The Ladies Board why she has trained herself to be a for education. I have taught chil- neighbors might say. In response, has offered more than $100,000 each year for more than doctor.” dren to read, managed classrooms, Sarah says, ‘rest assured the subject and worked alongside all different has been discussed at length.’ ” a decade. Does this character parallel your types of teachers.” Scholarship applications for next year will be available own life and/or interests in any All for the Union will be a part of at www.ladiesboard.org in January 2020. Applicants must way, and what is your favorite How does Thoburn see her the Capital Fringe Festival, July 14, live and/or work in Loudoun County and be enrolled in or line in the play? character, Sarah Steer. Who is 16, 20, 25, and 26 in Washington accepted by an accredited school of nursing. she? “My character Lizzie and I are D.C., and will also be staged at the Scholarships are funded by The Gift Shop at Inova very different in our pursuits, and “Sarah Steer is the eldest of the historic Aldie Mill, Aug. 2, 3, and 4. Loudoun Hospital, Twice Is Nice thrift shop in Leesburg, she is much more hotheaded than three writers of the Waterford For tickets and details go to the the Lights of Love remembrance program, and the I am. However, I like to hope I have News. I see Sarah as the foil to Lida. Run Rabbit Run Theatre website: Annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale. half of her courage and boldness. Lida is gutsy, Sarah is timid. Lida is www.RRRtheatre.org.

Welcome Friends! GENERATORS Local Produce is Here! Servicing All Brands r,, � Nalls Farm Market F'ARMF'RESH PROOUCl Over 25 years experience providing complete service that DIRECfLY F'ROMLOCAL F'ARMERS includes engine, generator and transfer switch. 48bq Havry Byv-d Hwy. Bevryvi(/eVa. 2201-:1- PROPANE – NATURAL GAS – DIESEL INSTALL OR UPGRADE — REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT t t Our Fresh Local Produce is Aniving Daily The BEST Watermelon and Cantaloupe ever! Tomatoes, Local Peaches, and GWP Super Sweet Corn — White and Bi-colored

POWER SOLUTIONS We have Walter the Basil Meister's Local all Natural Produce 540-533-0232 Co.({ for weekly o.vo.i(o.bi(i ty OV\. Loco.( Prod1Ace! gwppowersolutions.com Gerry Pierce

We won’t leave you powerless. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8N-1-7PM Have a qu.estioV\.? We ave oVt(iVte at 540-q 55 -0004 a vea( pevsoVt wi(( aVtSwev tMe pMov-.e. JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 23

COMP PLAN, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 projects in the light industrial category Areas were turned into a political densities, and the expansion of lands Public comments from various Board – data center land. This will, essentially, football as the County asserted more now available for intensive uses such as members highlight what they describe extend what is now known as Loudoun’s and more control over the level of data centers – were necessary to protect as a balanced outcome. And, the data center alley, in the Suburban Policy development that will be permitted in the rural west. introduction to the plan itself, a nearly Area (SPA) to the TPA. these places, and who will provide utility But, advocates of the County’s 500-page document, states: “Envision Hundreds of acres in the Rural Policy services to the people and businesses suburban east, transitional middle, and Loudoun proved to be an unprecedented Area – a full square mile – were erased locating there. rural west growth management strategy public engagement effort for the County.” from the County’s future agricultural remain unconvinced. But, while the public has strongly production potential, and moved into Is the transitional middle at risk? and consistently supported limits on the TPA. The final plan approved by the County A market-driven plan development, the Plan, as approved, addresses each of Loudoun’s four policy Loudoun County has tens of is more of a detailed roadmap of how, areas: The new, 2,600 acre UPA, the thousands of approved but as yet where, and when to grow, rather than an “While the public has 48,000 acre SPA, the 24,000 acre TPA, unbuilt housing units. They are in answer to the key planning questions: strongly and consistently and the 230,000 acre RPA. The Plan addition to the thousands more the How big does Loudoun County want to supported limits on also addresses the JLMAs. BOS has approved as part of the 2109 be? And what is the real fiscal impact of development, the Plan, One of the most consequential Comp Plan. what the BOS just agreed to? as approved, is more of a decisions County leaders made at Residential units cost the County detailed roadmap of how, the time of the 2001 Plan was to put $1.62 in services for every $1 they pay Key points in place an east-middle-west growth in taxes. As a consequence, other tax The new Comp Plan increases housing where, and when to grow, management strategy. revenue sources, including the multi- densities by thousands and thousands rather than an answer to the The idea here was to concentrate million dollar data center industry, of residential units – above and beyond key planning questions: How development in the east – in the SPA, are extremely attractive to Loudoun the 45,000 residential units already big does Loudoun County and create a lower-density area in the County’s number crunchers – the approved and in the pipeline. want to be? And what is the middle of the County – the TPA, that people responsible for keeping the The two places targeted to absorb real fiscal impact of what the would serve as a buffer between the County’s fiscal house in order. that growth are the newly created BOS just agreed to?” suburban east and the RPA. The County’s strategy in this regard Urban Policy Area (UPA) – centered on Early on in the Envision Loudoun seems to be to try to stay one step the Silver Line Metro Station – and the process, as the “vision” for Loudoun’s ahead of fiscal insolvency by growing, Transition Policy Area (TPA). Some 2,600 acres will be devoted to new Comp Plan was being developed, and growing quickly, particularly with The TPA itself will be forced to development around the new Silver Line language referring to these three respect to the new residential units that accommodate residential densities far Metro Stations, designated as part of the distinct areas was purposefully deleted. will ensure that companies wanting to beyond what it was originally designed UPA. Language in the Plan seems to do business here will have adequate to do. It will also be forced to absorb more And, the tens of thousands of acres indicate that the changes to the TPA workforce housing, and big tax revenue commercial, including development in Loudoun’s Joint Land Management – including increased residential opportunities like data centers.

Let us clean up, weed and mulch so you don’t have to.

DID YOU KNOW? Proper application of mulch is crucial to plant health and pre-emergent (applied before mulching) will help prevent future weeds!

Schedule a spring clean-up today! www.EplingLandscaping.com Lawn Care / Maintenance / Mowing 30 Years • 18 Trucks • 35 Professionals • 750+ Properties 24 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

HOUSTON, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 single one lives in Loudoun,” its owner proclaimed. I DATA CENTERS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 was tempted to shout, “Then pay them more.” Supervisors appointed 27 people to a Stakeholders for decreasing fossil fuel usage by 2030 by only 2 percent. Ford’s has apparently solved its staffing problems Since it aspires to increase the amount of electricity it Committee, tasked with producing a draft as is now venturing into the food truck business. generates by 29 percent by 2030, the net effect will be an Comprehensive Plan, which would be then sent Tony Howard Nixes Housing Growth increase in greenhouse gas emissions, not a decrease, as upstream to the Planning Commission. As Commandant of the Chamber of Commerce, called for by the Paris Climate Accords. The Stakeholders were primarily pro-growth a guy named Howard just re-stoked the push for Dominion is actively pursuing fossil fuel sources, espe- zealots. I don’t want to write about all its noxious more new houses, after the Board of Supervisors cially the $7 billion Atlantic Coast Pipeline (ACP), which propositions but thankfully the Stakeholders’ tone- had seemingly settled the matter with the new will deliver fracked gas into Virginia and North Caroli- deafness amused me a few times. The Supervisors Comprehensive Plan. na and further lock Virginia into relying on fracked gas. offered guidance on some issues, prompting In the movie Wall Street, Gordon Gekko (Michael Fracking is a hotly debated technique of extracting oil and Stakeholders Vice Chairman Douglas) famously said, natural gas from far below the earth’s surface, opponents Kathy Blackburn to tell the “Greed is good.” In remarks of which cite numerous negative environmental effects. Board to “stay in its own Supervisor Matt Letourneau to the Board just before it How Are Data Center Owners Responding? lane.” Later, in response to a retorted with the best quote of approved a massive reduction The largest cloud computing data centers in Virgin- Board plea to hurry up, the in new housing, Howard the entire 3-½ year process, ia are Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, and Google Stakeholders said, “We’re essentially bloviated, “Greed “What planet are you from?” ­– AWS dominating, with at least 55 data centers and more done when we’re done,” is God.” He lost but now planned. The addition of its second headquarters makes it or something along those he wants to resurrect those the largest consumer of electricity in the County. In 2014, lines. houses – and more. His Amazon pledged to power its data centers with 100 per- Most famously, a Stakeholder, perhaps Chair- message invites disdain. cent renewable energy (RE), but gave no deadline. By 2016, man Jumpin’ Jeff Salmon, told the Board that there Gekko‘s declaration was an ode to capitalism as should be something like 18,000 new houses built in practiced on Wall Street. (A hard-nosed version, I’ll it added 132 megawatts of RE in Virginia. However, since the Transition Policy Area. Supervisor Matt Letour- grant.) Howard’s sputterings were almost carnal 2017 (while building 23 new data centers in Loudoun), it neau retorted with the best quote of the entire 3-½ pleas for political influence that would guarantee added 0 megawatts in RE. The new data centers added 626 year process, “What planet are you from?” riches to his flock. It was unseemly. megawatts of energy demand, the equivalent usage of 1.4 The Stakeholders ultimately produced a draft million U.S. homes, while AWS data centers in Virginia plan but I wonder how much it was discredited by The Battle for Loudoun Continues are powered by only 12 percent RE – too little, too slow- members’ attitudes. ly. Although AWS could influence the state’s strategy on Envision endeth, but the Battle for Loudoun has RE, despite its public statements, it seems to be doing less entered a new phase. Young woman at the dais than it should. Some Supervisors suggest that the new According to an in-depth study by the nonprofit Green- Developers wanted a plan that allowed for Comprehensive Plan was a success because both extreme housing growth but were shrewd enough citizens and developers could accept it. peace, of 15 companies having data centers in Virginia, to know that dog wouldn’t hunt. Instead they used That concept of balance works in business, but nine have made some sort of renewable energy commit- the mantra “Affordable Housing.” Their storyline not here. The only successful plan would have seen ment. But, only five – AWS, Microsoft, Facebook, Sales- was that if more houses were built, the law of supply citizens dancing in the streets. Instead I sense two Force, and Apple – have some renewable power sources for and demand would kick in and housing prices would attitudes: Relief that this process is over, and anger their Virginia operations. Of these five only Apple, with fall to affordable levels. Though a preposterous at many of the Plan’s specifics. While the Plan does the smallest requirement of 20 megawatts, has reached perversion of economics, it sounded better than contain some good things, many problems need the 100 percent level. “make me rich.” fixing. The tech giants that own the data centers are Domin- Actual begging could be done by others. Standing There remains confusion about how much new ion’s customers. So, perhaps they should be the ones at the dais, a young woman said to Supervisors, “I housing will there be, where will it be, and of what hounding Dominion for RE sources. According to Utility- was born and raised in Loudoun and now I’m 24 type. I doubt if the fiscal impact is really known. Most Dive.com, ten tech companies sent a letter to Dominion and I can’t afford to live here.” I wanted to give the frighteningly, this Comp Plan will get translated criticizing the company for “continuing to plan for the poor child some new ideas – like apartments, older into a new zoning ordinance. That’s the document development of additional natural gas infrastructure.” houses, and especially the concept of a roommate. that determines what will really happen, and where. The companies included Apple, Microsoft, AWS and seven Expect a war. My mind is not quite ready for that. others, though neither Google nor Facebook. Fishy Business The Bottom Line The ultra-successful Ford’s Fish Shack also shilled Charles Houston developed office buildings in , Who are the losers if this trend continues? Tech gi- for developers. “We have 64 employees and not a and has lived in Paeonian Springs for 20 years. ants will continue to build data centers and profit from them. Power companies will continue to produce energy and profit from doing so. The citizens of Loudoun and the GABLE LANDFILL, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 world – we and future generations everywhere – will see turned from farmland into a wasteland while the property the effects of climate change – flooding, droughts, me- owner may have received millions of dollars in revenues ga-storms ­– with damage to homes, crops, roads, water from allowing the dumping of waste on the site. supplies, and loss of life. Finding and using RE sources is ASNV understands that the Gable “personal recre- a global problem, which requires global as well as local ational field” is subject to a stop work order and is cur- solutions. Given the rapid growth of data centers and the rently inactive. However, issuing a Notice of Violation for tremendous amount of energy they need, it’s critical that exceeding its approved elevation is not enough. The en- we find ways to encourage them to transition away from vironmental damage has already been done. Now is the fossil fuels as rapidly as possible. time to install monitoring wells and to prevent this from happening again. The County should adopt new regula- Jane Miley tions to prohibit the creation of private landfills and take Leesburg, with thanks to Marcia Carlyn, Robin Kent, Support Our Local Businesses a more proactive role in overseeing the uses to which Ibrahim Moiz, and Greenpeace the property in the County is put. If it does not, western See page 19 Loudoun County runs the risk of being turned from a bu- colic rural paradise to an environmental disaster area. ADVERTISE WITH US. Thomas L. Blackburn, President [email protected] Audubon Society Northern Virginia JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 25

PURCELLVILLE COMP PLAN, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 multi-family units, Nelis encouraged the Purcellville’s Draft Comp Plan Commission to add a higher story thresh- The draft plan includes some of the following categories: old to the plan, so that there could be more • Multi-Family – two-to-three story buildings and “larger format buildings may be appropriate as part density throughout the Town. “There’s a of planned developments nearer to the highway. large emphasis on comments of the com- Parking garages or lots in the interior of the munity members and they are quoted in development” are also allowed. (Page 40). • Mixed-Use Neighborhood Scale – to include here. They are helpful, I think; they are commercial, retail, office, institutional, and multi- very interesting, but every so often they family residential in the upper stories of buildings; slide into your recommendations. I just two-to-three-story buildings being common. (Page 41) want to remind the Commission it’s your • Mixed-Use Medium Scale – commercial, retail, responsibility to recommend a plan to the office services, and multi-family to include adult housing, residential and town homes; two-to-three- Town Council, not community members. story buildings being common. (Page 42) “I found six different places in the plan • Commercial Neighborhood Scale – retail, office, recommendations where the ‘community services, lodging, and restaurants. Buildings are typically one-to-two stories. (Page 43) recommends.’ You know this is not a doc- • Commercial Medium Scale – retail, office service, SUMMER SPECIAL ument of direct democracy.” lodging, and restaurants. Buildings are typically But, Purcellville resident Uta Brown one to two stories, but may have larger footprints, and story heights than in the neighborhood-scale said, “I would just like to make a plea for commercial areas. Residential use is encouraged people to stop and think about what do over the first floor of commercial buildings. (Page 44) we pay for growth. It seems to me that the • The Planning Commission added the use of multi- family and senior housing to the Hirst East focus area citizens in this Town have made their de- map in the draft comp plan. cision – they like the Town the way it is. They do not want to change it too much.” each time pushing for more intensive uses Ms. Brown continued, “It’s worth it not to on the properties. grow sometimes … and the worst of the For example, at a July 26, 2018 Planning growth is the debt that we are going to Commission meeting, Stinnette again leave our kids. Developers do not pay for raised the issue of adding more density roads and schools, period … So let’s get a to the properties. Paciulli reminded Stin- grip on this, and let’s be the people that nette that, “We already went through this, say no, and enough is enough.” and we made all the changes, and we were told we can’t keep on revisiting this.” June 27 Planning Commission Work Session At the end of 2018, the area was pro- At a June 27 Planning Commission work posed for Rural Transition designation session, the Planning Commissioners re- with commercial intensions, including a viewed the public’s comments on the Pur- conference center of two stories or less. cellville 5.0 plan. At the June 27, 2019 work session, the The PC focused mainly on the Eastern Commissioners agreed to designate the Gateway. parcels as agricultural, addressing consis- The area is comprised of two properties tent citizen sentiment that, as the eastern currently zoned Transition X, allowing for most gateway to Town, both the properties agriculture, assisted living of one to eight should remain relatively green, to also avoid individuals, bed and breakfast, single saddling the area with traffic problems that family homes and equestrian facilities, to more commercial activity would bring. name a few. Said Planning Commissioner Nan The properties are the DiPalma-Kipfer Forbes, “It was clear that many people in property located at 38038 West Colonial the public hearing don’t want commercial Highway, next to Catoctin Corner, and the in this area. We have a lot of commercial in O’Toole property, located at the southeast the area now.” corner of Rt. 287 and Business 7 near the Forbes also noted that the previous traffic circle on Main Street. Planning Commission did not approve The property owners, who have actively the Catoctin Corner development, and she attended the three-year planning process, said, “I suspect for a very good reason.” want MC-Mixed Use Commercial, as this She noted that many people in the Town would give them the most money for their “are telling us they want what is nice to property and the highest density options. stay that way.” “If the goal is to keep it The results of the work session were green, then you don’t put in buildings, and summed up by Planning Commissioner you don’t pave it over,” said Forbes. Chip Paciulli, who said, “We have gone full Stinnette said, “We are in the business circle,” meaning that, over the three-year to come up with a plan that represents the Comprehensive Plan review process, the will of the community at large,” adding Commission has gone back and forth and later, “At the end of the day, the property back and forth on these two properties. owner does have some vested rights with First the properties had agricultural com- their property to try and make something mercial use designations – the same as out of their vested property.” their neighboring property, Crooked Run Forbes responded, “There are no vested Orchard, a Virginia Century Farm. rights. There are ownership rights.” She add- With each additional review, the PC ed, “Our job is to figure out what’s best for the agreed not to revisit the decision. Purcell- Town and what we want this to look like.” ville Town Council Member Tip Stinnette Ultimately the planning commissioners – Chair of the Planning Commission – at the June 27 work session, agreed to give would however, bring up the issue again, the area an agricultural designation. 26 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

GREEN ASSETS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 8.8 acres north of the wastewater ALL-STAR GAME, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 through Friday, June 28. over a year. treatment plant and the 40-plus three and striking out four.” Cannons “Batting practice and autograph/ Said the Mayor, “Economic value from acres of the plant itself, the 6.5-acre batters played a role, too, bringing in photo sessions for young fans will take green space in the Town of Purcellville, Jeffries property, the nearly 20 acres those eight, hard-fought runs.­­ place 3:10-4:45 p.m. The 60-yard dash I see this as a significant opportunity at the Fireman’s Field/Dillons Woods James Madison University’s Veterans contest will be held at 4:50 p.m., and for the Town and western Loudoun complex, the 12.5-acre Susan Kane Memorial Park will host the All-Star the Home Run Derby at 5:20 p.m. Player County to contribute to environmental West Side Reserve land, the 11-acre Game. introductions will be at 7:15 p.m., with sustainability, while at the same time Susan Kane East Side Reserve land, and The North squad is comprised of first pitch set for 7:30 p.m. obtaining revenue to fund our utility the 5-plus-acre Community Garden players from Front Royal, New Market, “The evening will also feature the enterprise, and pay down our debt. I will property, all of which will never be Purcellville, Strasburg, Winchester, and fourth class of the Valley Baseball League encourage our Economic Development developed, can serve as, in effect, the Woodstock. The South squad consists Hall of Fame, which will be introduced at Advisory Committee to research and draft depository of those credits. of athletes from Charlottesville, 7:00 p.m.” a Request for Proposal that will position At the June 25 work session Town Covington, Harrisonburg, Staunton, With the appearance of Travis Keys Purcellville to benefit from its inventory Manager David Mekarski echoed and Waynesboro. Each squad initially and the Hall of Fame ceremonies, it will of green assets under HB 2485.” Fraser’s support of the idea, relating included nine pitchers and 16 position be a great afternoon and evening for Importantly, HB 2485 allows a the story of a farmer with 500 acres players. Cannons fans at George Mason. municipality to “aggregate” or bring who received nearly $5 million dollars Per the announcement from the A traveling All-Star team ­– landowners together to attract through carbon sequestration credits. Valley Baseball League, “The North team representing the league’s top-rated investment capital for the purchase of He said this could “really move the will be managed by Strasburg’s Brock prospects for the Southern Collegiate these carbon or environmental credits. needle on our debt.” Moss, and the South by Waynesboro’s Showcase was yet to be announced as For example, Purcellville has 1,200 Purcellville’s RFP on the issue would Zac Cole. Managers of the rosters were of press time. Cannons fans are hoping acres in its watershed property, and be targeted towards companies in the determined by the highest teams in the Keys will be among the players selected. the nearby Town of Hamilton owns, business of establishing industrial standings at the conclusion of games let’s say 500 acres of undeveloped development authorities and matching land. Under IDA rules Purcellville and the sellers of carbon credits to the Hamilton can come together and have potential buyers of carbon credits. VIEW FROM THE RIDGE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 The project documents the life 1,700 acres of credits – worth millions From Mayor Fraser’s perspective, of Loudoun County’s 300 miles of of dollars – to sell to investors. These carbon sequestration credits, wetland economic growth knocking on our historic country roads – assets, by the investors are major corporations and mitigation credits, and nutrient credits doors … unspent. way, which are worth millions and organizations such as Duke Energy, or present ways to further monetize And, that is Loudoun County’s millions of dollars in tourist revenue. Google, or The Dulles Airport Authority what he estimates are the $129-plus heartbreaking conundrum. How to The film, photography, and who need carbon sequestration credits, million in assets owned by the Town. resist the cold, hard cash that is being homegrown historic preservation nutrient credits, or wetland mitigation They include the 1,200-acre watershed offered to us in exchange for the effort won two nationally and credits to offset environmental losses property, and the 189-acre Aberdeen destruction of things that can never internationally significant awards – from developing elsewhere. property. be brought back once bought and paid the Regional Edward R. Murrow Award Other Purcellville-owned assets Said Fraser, “Asphalt should not be for – productive farmland, historic for “Excellence in Video,” and the Gold include the 15.49-acre Bowman Park, the last crop in Purcellville.” structures, essential wildlife habitat, ADDY marketing and graphic design scenic vistas, quality of life. award. The new Comp Plan leaves no stone PREMIER COMPUTERS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 in a world of technology providers … More recently, the project was unturned with respect to the County’s “It’s all about helping people stay con- not all of whom, get it. awarded an Emmy. Loudoun’s dirt development potential. If anything, nected and well-equipped technology “We believe in offering better advice, roads were awarded an Emmy. the Plan is telling us how much we wise, whether it’s a home computer set- parts, systems and turnaround time There are billions of dollars worth are worth. No scrap of land has gone up, difficulty dealing with an ISP server, than our competitors, and we believe in of economic growth knocking on our unaccounted for in the planner’s or establishing a simple line of sight for being honest. We offer the best support doors. inventory of possible places to use to a satellite system.” to residential and commercial clients There are also incalculable meet “the market’s” demands. One simple paragraph on the Premier alike. We believe in adding value to a treasures right here – treasures worth But, what do we as a County, want Computer website expresses an idea persons life … not taking it away.” their weight in gold – waiting to be to be? that makes this company truly special protected. In April 2109 we reported on the Maybe sorting through all of this tremendous success of a Loudoun- isn’t necessarily a heart-breaking JOHN WHITBECK, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Loudoun and the Transition Policy Area? based project known as America’s conundrum. But perhaps a search for Routes. the better choice. density near the Town of Leesburg, and I will JW: I am committed to maintaining the work to reverse that mistake. character of our rural west. In order to do My wife and I lived in an Affordable that, we need Supervisors that are commit- It’s time we gave the same protection to our years. As a mental health attorney, former Dwelling Unit when we first moved to Ster- ted to maintaining the Rural Policy Area as teachers, staff, and students in elementary Adjunct Professor of Mental Health Law, ling nearly 20 years ago, so when I say that I is. I support a transfer of development rights schools. and former Special Justice for mental health am committed to attainable housing, I mean program, and I will also reverse the recent Not only do these officers protect our cases, I have worked hard to ensure individ- transfer of open space to high density hous- it. The attainable housing that Loudoun had schools, but they also develop a positive rap- uals have access to the care they need. ing around Leesburg. 20 years ago allowed me to start my family port between the community and the sher- I ran a pro bono mental health clin- and business. I fear this type of opportunity I am also committed to a redistricting iff’s office. This is a crucial and often over- ic, which was so successful that the Fair- no longer exists in Loudoun. plan that ensures western Loudoun main- looked aspect of the program. As trained fax Board of Supervisors took it over, and As for data centers, they have been an tains two Supervisors on the Board that rep- professionals, they are well equipped to as- funded a full-time position in their County asset for Loudoun County, generating reve- resent rural areas. sist administrators with , behavioral Attorney’s office. As Chair, I will bring this nue to boost our economy and fund essen- issues, and other scenarios that are common BRL: You proposed, along with Loudoun program to Loudoun. tial services, such as our education system. County Sheriff Mike Chapman, to ex- in our schools. However, I will work to ensure data centers Candidates rarely, if ever, campaign on pand our School Resource Officer Pro- BRL: Tell us something about yourself, are placed in the right locations outside our mental health, and our elected officials are gram. Why? something that people may not know, Rural Policy Area and away from land better not doing enough to address this crucial is- that makes you suited for this job. used for residential development. JW: Our School Resource Officer Program sue. I will make this a major part of my work is a nationally recognized program that pro- JW: Mental health has been a passion of as Chair of the Loudoun County Board of BRL: How would you protect western tects our middle schools and high schools. mine my entire career, spanning almost 20 Supervisors. JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 27

COUNTY FAIR, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 recorded the album at a recording GRANT FRASER, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 studio in Purcellville called M80. I agricultural heritage. Fair tickets and schedule was a saver’ … I was always putting think I was the first artist to record an As the fair opens,” Rabbit Showman- a little bit of money away. Maybe for details album there. ship” will be getting started in the Green The Loudoun County Fair runs from Tuesday July something like this. “Every artist has their own path,” Barn Area, and Milking Demonstrations 23 to Sunday July 28. A full, day-by-day schedule “At age 4 or 5,” he continued, “I took can be found at www.loudouncountyfair.com. It’s he continued. “When I started, I up violin – and I learned that by ear. & Facts About Cows will be underway in the best way to plan your day and visit to the fair. wanted to produce music that was I’ve also played trombone, I picked up (of course!) the Dairy Barn. There is a $5 (in cash) parking pass fee that is vulnerable, and open. That’s how I good all week. the guitar on the way, and also took You’ll find the Marvelous Mutts dog wanted to begin my career. To show up piano my freshman year in high agility show performing daily, as well Purchase tickets at www.tickets.loudouncountyfair. people who I was through my music. school. That’s also when I started as the Team Rock Ninja Experience, com for a single day or a full week. Children “I grew up listening to John Mayer under five are always free. Single day adult tickets writing, too – around my freshman and the Agricadabra and Hypno Show and Ed Sheeran,” said Frazier. “They (and children 13 and up) are $12, kids over five, year in high school.” with Brad Machette. $5. Full week adult tickets (and children 13 and were a big inspiration for my first As for the production of Runaway, Over the course of the week, there up) are $35, kids over five, $12. Tickets can also album. I’ve also gotten a lot of be purchased at the gate and credit cards are Frazier is incredibly modest about will be “Who’s in the Barnyard” guid- inspiration from the jazz ensembles accepted. Prices may vary. Tuesday is Seniors’ that record, with music and lyrics ed tours and Horse Showmanship Day; Wednesday is Children’s Day. I’ve played with. Miles Davis and that are both as polished and unique demonstrations. Bruce Hornsby are also two people A few friendly notes: The Loudoun County as they are simple – like listening to Fair dinners will be offered every who have inspired me tremendously.” Fairgrounds is private property. Firearms are not the original album of what most of us night, sponsored by a local 4-H youth permitted. Only sworn law enforcement officers Today, Frazier still plays in a describe as our original favorite artist. group. These include the 4-H Goat are exempted from this policy. No pets are allowed jazz ensemble, and performs in “The first one, Runaway, I kept on the fairgrounds. Service animals are welcome. connection with events at UVA. Club (tacos), the Beef Club (roast beef it pretty clean,” said Frazier. “I and burgers with all of the trimmings), The Loudoun County Fairground is located at He also plays “the bar scene,” as 17558 Dry Mill Road, Leesburg. he describes it. “Charlottesville has the Sheep Club (BBQ lamb), the Poul- a pretty cool music scene,” he said. try Club (grilled chicken), and others. Upcoming concert dates: “And, I also play at the Southern Café The dinners are a real highlight of the er and promote youth agriculture Acoustic on the Green, Leesburg, August 3, 7 p.m. & Music Hall.” fair and help support the cause. education, have fun, and have some Quattro Goombas Brewery, Aldie, August 16, 5 Frazier’s mom lives in Purcellville. His Chicken Poop Bingo is sure to at- friendly competition.” p.m. to 8 p.m. The Barns at Hamilton Station, Hamilton, Sept. 13, dad lives in Aldie, and his brother Neill is tract a crowd. Marvelous Mutts was funded by 5:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. spreading his own wings in Boston. Kara Gilmore and Nadja Palenzuel. Greenhill Vineyard, Middleburg, Sept. 15, 2 to 4 Frazier has a full lineup of Trainer and performer Christina Cur- p.m. “Whether you are an appearances in the area this summer. tis works right alongside them today. entertainment buff, a parent Said Palenzuel, “We are very excit- AMERICA’S ROUTES, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 historic preservation effort won two looking for kid-friendly activity, ed to be performing at the Loudoun nationally and internationally signifi- or just curious to see what County Fair!” slavery and the struggle for freedom, cant awards in the areas of documen- a fair is all about, there is Other performances, entertain- the coming of the automobile, and the tary filmmaking and marketing/graph- something for you.” ment, and educational opportunities modern era existing beside traditional ic design. The awards include the during the week include the Stoney farms,” Korff said in a press release. Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Roberts Derby, a watermelon-eating “Rather than allowing rural Loudoun “Excellence in Video,” the Gold ADDY And, here are a few words in sup- contest, a classic kiss-a-pig contest, and its roadways to turn into any- marketing and graphic design award. port of the canine show called Mar- and a Loudoun County Firefighter’s where America, this initiative seeks to The 61st Emmys were presented by velous Mutts – a spectacular show Competition. document, commemorate and educate The National Capital Chesapeake Bay of dog agility and human kindness. And did someone say … lawnmow- about this irreplaceable resource. And, Chapter of The National Academy of According to the Marvelous Mutts er races? Yes. most importantly, its mission is to in- Television Arts and Sciences on Sat- website – which describes this dog There will also be absolutely awe- vite others to experience these road- urday, June 22, at the Bethesda North agility show, its origins, and its sup- some music from Mountain High- ways themselves, whether by car, on Marriott Hotel & Conference Center. port of youth education – “All of The way, Bluetrain Bluegrass, and others. foot, bike or horse. Watch the video, and find America’s Marvelous Mutts were adopted from And, the 2019 Miss Loudoun Coun- “No one with America’s Routes Routes’ photos, short stories, and a shelters and rescues, and do their ty Fair Pageant will also take center wants to discourage Loudoun’s suc- history tour that can be done on foot, best to show that rescued dogs can stage. cess. On the contrary, members believe horseback, bicycle or by car at Ameri- thrill audiences everywhere they the region’s economy thrives thanks to casRoutes.com. Love it all … don’t miss it … eat the county’s bucolic charm.” For more information, visit Ameri- perform … The fair is an opportuni- your heart out … and here’s to those In recent months the homegrown casRoutes.com or call 540 687-6681. ty for a community to come togeth- doggies!

UNMARKED GRAVES, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 result, the database will be helpful to County planners including the inherent difficulty – but importance – of and others working on specific development projects. codifying this information. organizations to help the County build and refine The County worked with a wide variety of individuals “We faced a number of challenges in this project,” the list – based on historical research, and individual and organizations on the mapping effort, including local said Brown. “The socio-economic status of Loudoun family histories previously shared only around the historians and property owners and other nonprofit residents varied widely in the 17th century, including kitchen table, or, as a memory of a long-lost loved one’s and government entities, including the Thomas Balch enslaved African Americans, poor tenant farmers, and passing. Many sites are virtually invisible to the naked Library and its Black History Committee, and the wealthy property owners. As a result, burial traditions eye – with no tombstones, or markers, or identifying Loudoun Freedom Center. varied. People were often buried on private property, features. Virginia law protects both the rights of the property sometimes with engraved monuments or headstones, The new online tool – a publically accessible database owners upon whose land any grave or burial ground is but often with wooden markers that have since – was developed by Loudoun’s Office of Mapping and located. It also protects the rights of historians and disintegrated.” Geographic Information (GIS), in consultation with the descendants to access the site to pay their respects to “The interactive map is intended to serve as a tool Department of Planning and Zoning. loved ones and ancestors, or conduct research. for documenting history and future land use planning,” According to County mapping professionals, most of Office of Mapping and GIS Director Kristin Brown said Brown. “It’s important to identify the sites, but we the cemeteries identified are on private property. As a made one of the most important points about the effort, also encourage residents to follow the law.” 28 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

ASK DR. MIKE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 Here’s to your teens restful, fun and productive summer. days, but that doesn’t mean that your teen can’t stop into a CLASSIFIEDS place (after applying on-line) to introduce him or herself to Michael Oberschneider, Psy.D. is a clinical psychologist in a potential employer. An on-line application will certainly private practice. He has been featured on CNN, Good Morning HELP WANTED get things going, but following up with strong in person America and several other outlets. He can be reached at 703 introduction can be what’s needed to separate your teen 723-2999, and is located at 44095 Pipeline Plaza, Suite 240, Come grow with us! from the larger pack of on-line applicants to secure that job. Ashburn. We’re looking for friendly folks who want to help local businesses with advertising. TIM JON, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 local issue was on the block. This little chapel on Gleedsville Road: Inquire by email: often led us to deep and murky, but Andrew McKnight, Les Thompson [email protected] chair with a crowbar, and the three very interesting waters. and others shared music that had of us shared incoming facts, mutual I remember the only time I saw Chris not already been among feelings, interviews with rattled Chris really cry; later in the spring us in spirit – I felt he would have FOR RENT officials, and at least a few tears as of 2007 the new owners were letting thoroughly enjoyed. we learned more about the scope most of the on-air talent go, and he Looking back on my time with xcEptional Ental of that day’s tragedies. I was (and literally staggered under the weight Chris, probably my favorite of E R still am) very grateful to have had of emotions, into the news room all memories would be him in 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Apartment those guys around during that time. (where else was I gonna be?), and that soulful, baritone voice on a Very Clean! Fast forward a few years: I still tried to gently break the news. He sparkling spring morning outside Located in The Piedmont Hunt GREAT AFFORDABLE RENT IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYTHING recall the look on Chris’ face – this couldn’t form the words; here was of Wage studios, reminding me that was in the spring of 2007 when we this supercool guy coming in to the mockingbirds’ songs we both On a beautiful, gated, safe, quiet Middleburg farm with Blue Ridge views learned – seconds before going on offer sympathy at a time when he enjoyed came to us simply due to air – that the number of fatalities in knew it was needed. That meant their feeling ‘amorous.’ Now, that’s Call (301) 514-8114 the shooting was not more to me than all the explanatory not the word Chris actually used; eight, as we’d been previously told, equivocation I received from the you may need to consult a thesaurus The Blue Ridge Leader is pledged to the letter and spirit of Virgin- but more than 30. powers that be. on that one. ia’s and HUD’s Equal Opportunity Housing Policies. Virginia’s Fair “We can do this,” Chris’ eyes and Well, Chris lost Dene to cancer And I must say to end at the Housing Law makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, elderliness, set jaw seemed to say. And we did. several years after we all left beginning, that whenever I familial status and handicap. This newspaper will not knowingly ac- cept advertising for real estate that violates the Fair Housing Law. And so much more: a lifetime of the radio station; I recall the watch Rebel Without a Cause I get Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in memories, sitting down and talking devastation in his face when he goosebumps when the late, beloved the paper are available on an equal housing opportunity basis. For more information about Virginia’s Fair Housing to that guy at the mike; instead of told me of her condition; many of James Dean screams ‘I got the bullets!’ Law, or to file a Fair Housing complaint, call the just reading the news stories – Chris us believe he never fully recovered after the police have shot his friend. Virginia Fair Housing Office at 804.376.8530; toll-free 888.551.3247; for the hearing impaired: (and Paul, and others) would ‘pump’ from the loss (yes, theirs was true These moments and memories 804.527.4290; email – fair [email protected]. me – during their live segments, for love), and we gathered for Chris’ I carry with me on every trip to gov; web: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org. the interesting stuff in whatever services, as we had for Dene’s, at the Round Hill, Virginia.

LEESBURG WATER, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 In a June email exchange, Round Hill Mayor Ramsey to play both sides of the fence; considering major changes to the decades-long policy language contained in the County’s asked Blue Ridge Supervisor Buffington to explain his vote the Comprehensive Plan, while at the same time entertaining Revised General Plan that designates the Town of Leesburg in favor of giving Leesburg’s JLMA over to Loudoun Water. development proposals, including data center projects that as the utility service provider in the Joint Land Management Said Ramsey: “The change to replace the Town of stand in conflict with current zoning law. Area … The Board passed these motions hastily, based on Leesburg with Loudoun Water as the primary utility Pro-growth advocates on the Board have been displeased comments from developers made not in a public meeting.” provider in the Leesburg JLMA without warning, with no with Leesburg’s managed growth approach to the rewrite of The COLT letter continued: “Reversing a decades-long notification to the Town or the public [that] it was even under the County Comprehensive Plan. Leesburg has advocated policy in a single meeting, with no input from Leesburg and consideration until the last minute, with no staff report, for more limited residential development in its JLMA, no objective analysis of the impact of this change on Leesburg with no fiscal impact analysis, with no public disclosure of and has also pushed back hard on the Board’s increasingly utility customers and Leesburg’s infrastructure investments the private communications between the Board and other immovable stance on bringing into the County as many data affecting the JLMA is the very opposite of a town/county individuals that drove this decision, and no consideration centers as possible. Data centers bring hundreds of millions partnership with transparent governance … These motions to the substantial public investment already made by the of dollars into the County coffers. However, they are also affect not only Leesburg but set a troubling precedent for residents of the Town of Leesburg in infrastructure, was huge consumers of water. all Loudoun County towns and our future relationships with not one of a thoughtful body acting transparently in the According to Mayor Burk, the recent vote signals that the Loudoun County.” public eye mindful of a long-term relationship with the BOS is more concerned with getting those tax dollars than In public testimony before the BOS, COLT members Towns, but instead as a raw exercise of power displayed thinking through how this kind of development may impact described the Comp Plan as it existed at that time as petulantly in a heat of passion. That is not how to repair a a town such as Leesburg. The vote also strikes at the heart of “indefensible,” “irresponsible,” and “transparently developer- damaged relationship – it requires engagement, not an act maintaining a cooperative approach to Loudoun’s JLMAs centric.” The Loudoun Water vote seemed to reinforce their of aggression.” – around towns such as Leesburg, Purcellville, Round Hill, assessment. Ramsey added, “I was sad and disappointed to see your and others. Commenting via email on the issue, Purcellville Mayor name next to this type of behavior … Will Round Hill get Referring to Leesburg, she said: “While the County is Fraser said: … “with the recent surprise motion and vote more than 48 hours’ warning when you come after us? That frustrated that the Town charges out-of-town rates, that is to allow Loudoun Water to be the sole provider of water is, unfortunately, the question I find myself asking right something we have been doing for 10 years or more, as have and sewer to Leesburg’s JLMA, this begs the question now.” so many other towns in Loudoun and Northern Virginia. as to where the true interest of the BOS lies … Years ago, Buffington responded to Ramsey, saying he was “unaware Nothing changed on our part. The change has come from Leesburg made a decision to invest in their utility enterprise of the pending motion until only hours before it was made the BOS side, without looking at the financial impacts to the in anticipation of extending service to its JLMA. Given the by Supervisor Buona.” Town. They seem more concerned about the development County’s recent vote, Leesburg will not be able to recoup He also said he had “received a call from him [Buona] community than the Town of Leesburg and its residents.” that investment unless it merges with Loudoun Water. As prior to the meeting concerning strong-handed tactics being A week later, the Leesburg Town Council officially the rest of the Mayors in Loudoun County, we will need to taken by the Town of Leesburg, requiring quick action to responded to the BOS Loudoun Water decision. In a carefully watch any further advancement by Loudoun Water avoid the loss of several large companies from investing in unanimous vote, they approved the drafting of a resolution westward with the support of the BOS into the RPA [Rural Loudoun.” In the end, said Buffington, “I did feel the need that considers steps to begin full annexation of the JLMA. Policy Area] and other JLMAs. Whoever controls water and to support the motion.” If carried out, such action would remove the JLMA from sewer controls development.” That exchange indicated the Board of Supervisors’ desire County control. JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 29

SHOP AND SUPPORT L CAL BUSINESS OWNERS AND NEIGHBORS

LINDA CULBERT MARY WISKER LINDA CULBERT MARY WISKER REALTOR® REALTOR®, ABR/SFR REALTOR® RRREREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREREAREALTREALREALTOR RRREREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREREAREALTREALREALTOR RRREALTOR,REREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREALTOR,REREAREALTREALREALTORREALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,REALTOR,RRREREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREREAREALTREALREALTOR ABR/SFR RRREREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREREAREALTREALREALTOR RRREREALTORREAREALTREALREALTORREREAREALTREALREALTOR Associate Broker Multi-Million Dollar Producer Associate Broker Associate Broker Multi-Million Dollar Producer Associate Broker ABR Licensed in VA & DC ABR ABR Licensed in VA & DC ABR 100 Purcellville Gateway Drive 508 E. Market St. Suite 100 B Leesburg VA 20176 Office: 540-338-1350 ------Cell: 703-431-1724 Cell: 703-577-6015 Fax: 540-338-1620 Office: 703-777-2900 [email protected] [email protected] LindaCulbert.com www.MaryWisker.com

See our ad on ® ® the back cover Sam & Ray Rees Associate Brokers Lisa Jalufka, Realtor 703-408-4261 ADVERTISE 703-887-8506 mobile office [email protected] 703-858-2770 [email protected] WITH US. [email protected] ONE LOUDOUN OFFICE 20405 Exchange St., # 221 [email protected] Ashburn, VA 20147 107 East Main Street Suite 1 A Licensed in Virginia, and Maryland Purcellville Va 20132

HH M MEESS Selling your home? Staging makes an impression. wwwwww.K.KaaththyyHHeesslseler.rc.coomm Let us stage your home to sell for top dollar! Dawn Billow, Broker kaktahtyhhyehsessleslrehrohmomese@[email protected] Compass West Realty, LLC • HOME STAGING & REDESIGN 17 W. Boscawen St, Winchester, VA 22601 70730-631-651-154-194393 70730-37-387-88-818010 O: 540-692-9378 F: 540-369-6266 • COLOR CONSULTATIONS Compass West Realty is licensed in Virginia and West • INTERIOR DECORATING Virginia to help you with all of your real estate needs. 1602 Village Market Blvd SE, 160S2u Viteil l2a5g5e, MLeaerksbeut rBgl,v VdA S 2E0, 175 www.CompassWestRealty.com [email protected] Suite 255, Leesburg, VA 20175 Pamela Newhouse CCE, CHSR Custom Painters, LLC NEWHOUSE President & N | H Creative Director The Western Loudoun Handyman HOME INTERIORS Home Improvement from A-Z Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior 540 668-5159 CALL Residential/ OR EMAIL [email protected] CommerResidentialcial >>>>>>>>> www.NewHouseHomeInteriors.com Working Locally for over 15 years FCommercialaux Finishes n Tile n Flooring n Fencing “because ... COLOR can be complicated & n n Carpentry Masonry And much more PPressureressure WWashingashing STAGING makes an impression.” Call Rudy: 540-550-4324 or email [email protected] CarpenCarpentrytry RepairRepairss Drywall Repairs JoelJoel WelterWelter Drywall Repairs OwnerOwner PREMIER 540-338-8091 540-338-8091Round Hill, VA Round Hill, VA Serving the Loudoun County area since 1983 ServingOffering Northern10% winter VA Loudoun Countydiscounts area on all sinceinterior work 1983 www.custompainters.biz [email protected] A+RATING Licensed Insured References Free Estimates

Homes * Farms * Land

Kim Hurst 703-932-9651 YourCountryHome.net

Atoka Properties/Middleburg R.E. Licensed in Virginia • 540-687-6321 703-771-1110 serving Western Counties sinCe 2003 Serving Loudoun County for over 20 years 30 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com JULY 2019

SHOP AND SUPPORT L CAL BUSINESS OWNERS AND NEIGHBORS

Complete Remodeling – Home Improvement Interior & Exterior Painting • Flooring & Carpet • Carpentry Bathroom Remodeling • Granite Counter Tops & Installation ROOFING, SIDING, Deck Maintenance • Roofing Replacement and Repair Plumbing • House Cleaning Services WINDOWS, GUTTERS Paint & Stain LLC www.paintandstains.com Licensed, Bonded and Insured Since 1997 New Roofs/ Roof Repair 815 Grant St., Herndon, VA 20170 [email protected] Siding Repairs/ Tel: 202 910-6083 Cell: 571-243-9417 Hudson Roofing Replacement Juvenal Orozco Company Skylight Repairs/ 540.687.8850 703.327.4050 We Take Pride In Our Craftsmanship Replacement [email protected] FREE ESTIMATES Flat Roofs www.landscapeassociatesinc.net 703-615-8727 • Landscape Architectural Design Cedar Shakes • Planting & Gardens [email protected] • Masonry • No Job Too Small Wood Trim • Outdoor Structures • Owner Supervised Replacement • Water Features/Pools • Emergency 24 Hour Repairs • Horticultural Maintenance Flashing Repairs Over 30 years experience with more than • Drainage & Water Management 12,750 satisfied customers • Outdoor Lighting Storm Damage • Large Caliper Tree Transplanting VA Class A License 2705-028844A Claims • Special Events

Tree Experts For Over 30 Years SPR S ING Family Owned & Operated PECI 20 AL w % ith th OF 540-533-8092 is ad F Call Brian Today! ! General Contractor YVAN 571-505-5565 • WWW.AQSCONTRACTING.COM [email protected] Full Remodeling Bathrooms General Repairs Class A. Basements Additions Handyman Services Licensed Kitchens

Patios & Retaining Drainage Walkways Walls Solutions Bobcat Grading 30 R RC Services and more! • DRIVEWAYS • EXPOSED AGGREGATE • PATIOS • FOOTINGS • SLABS Call or text Chris: 540-664-2340 • STAMPED CONCRETE • SIDEWALKS Serving Northern VA for over 30 years! Free Estimates • [email protected] Licensed - Insured - References h 0343322 Cell 03921

[email protected]

Mowing Lawn Mower, Small Tractors & Bushogs Fertilizing Blade Sharpening & Maintenance Oil Changes l Greasing l Repairs Aerating Support Our Local Businesses Seeding Spring & Fall Cleanup See page 19 Mulching Leaf Removal Brian W. Ebelhare Sharp Blades Bed Preparation 703 989-1472 Ronnie Fox We Come to You! Landscape Maintenance [email protected] 540 338-3408 Locally owned and operated www.sharp-blades.com JULY 2019 BLUE RIDGE LEADER & LOUDOUN TODAY | www.BlueRidgeLeader.com 31

SHOP AND SUPPORT L CAL BUSINESS OWNERS AND NEIGHBORS

Affordable Sheds & Garden Products LLC Wooden & Vinyl Storage Sheds Email Referrals Available BALCH’S Run-In & Shed Row Barns TRANSMISSION SERVICE Modular Barns ~ Pole Barns Coops ~ Garages ~ Playhouses Servicing Loudoun County since 1995 Gazebos ~ Kennels ~ Lawn Furniture

Karen & Keith Laren & Jacob Lawson 540-822-4524 On-Site Installations 701A W. Main Street, Purcellville, VA • 540-338-7447 Custom Sizes & Kits Available 11750 Berlin Turnpike www.balchstransmissionservice.com www.affordablesheds.us Lovettsville, VA 20180

Solar Panel Systems Include: 30% IncomeTax Credit Property Tax Credits Guaranteed Return on Investment

Treakle Insurance Agency Inc Darin Treakle Auto • Home • Business • Life 8363 W Main St, PO Box 121, Marshall, VA 20116-0000 540-364-1853 • Fax 540-364-4210 [email protected]

STANDARD PRESORT U.S. POSTAGE RESIDENTIAL PAID CUSTOMER PERMIT NO. 82 ECRWSS WOODSTOCK, VA

STANDARD PRESORT RESIDENTIAL U.S. POSTAGE CUSTOMER ECRWSS PAID PERMIT NO. 82 WOODSTOCK, VA

SINCE 1984 MARCH 2019 www.blueridgeleader.com blueridgeleader blueridgeleader SINCE 1984

www.blueridgeleader.com

APRIL 2019 Gable Farm under Notice of Violation; More sites under scrutiny

BY ANDREA GAINES Cattail, LC continues to engage County the south side of Old Business 7 east of officials on the implications of the Gable Hamilton, and abuts the Cattail LC’s 800 Gable Farm, met on March 2 to hear about Comp Plan decision time – Farm personal recreational field/landfill acres of farmland under conservation series of public hearings and work ses- the issues surrounding the landfill activity. sions, to review the draft and either ac- and efforts to lift an original order issued easement. Henry Harris, a family representative for to the landowner. The Gable Farm is on Members of the community, also Cattail and a hydrogeologist with many sented to the Board of Supervisors by the cept or deny the specific recommenda- concerned about unauthorized dumping at years of experience with landfills and other TPA residentsLoudoun prepared County Planning Commission fortions of the a Commission. fight A final vote is waste sites, is looking to the County for on March 21 is recommending a plan that expected in early July. BY ANDREA GAINES answers. Harris stated, “the responsibility It is hard to understate the enormity seeks, not just to direct the growth to ‘Land available for development’ vs. for addressing the fundamental issue come, but to give it a place within which of the gap between the thousands of in- ‘quality of life’ lies squarely in the hands of Loudoun dividual Loudoun County residents who to explode. - The development community is jubi- One of the first indications that the INSIDE: One big, messy, tax County. The approved landfill alone have expressed their concerns about is egregiously large and intrusive: 18- lant – while the people and neighbor PC would seek to fundamentally change haven? Go to page 15 Loudoun’s runaway growth, and the plus acres; at least 220,000 cubic yards IN THIS ISSUE hoods that lie in the path of that growth Loudoun’s approach to growth was Comprehensive Plan that will be publicly of waste; thousands of truckloads; no BUSINESS are incredulous, and promising to be out the Envision Loudoun CONTINUEDMay 2018 ON PAGEdraft 17 » ...... 12 GOVERNMENT debated this month. CLASSIFIEDS ...... 8 screening and no setbacks; no notice to ...... 28 OPINION With the Silverline Metro on the way, in full force for public hearings scheduled COLUMNISTS ...... 6 neighbors; no public information about ...... 4 REAL ESTATE for April 24 and April 27...... 11 an Urban Policy Area added to the mix, the origin and contents of the waste; and and dozens of data centers on the way, The BOS now has 90 days, through a no environmental monitoring. Stop Work Order at Gable Farm Loudouners knew they were in for a change. “Whatever happens to our land, this But, the draft Loudoun 2040 plan pre- should never be permitted again. Under The Gable Farm personal recreational field/landfill is an 18-acre tract of land current County zoning, a ‘dirt stockpile’ covered with piles of dirt, massive chunks Coming to your neighborhood? having exactly the same physical of concrete and asphalt, construction characteristics would not be permissible debris, and more, including liquid waste. on this site without a special use In some places, the mounds are 30 to 40 permit from Loudoun County Board of feet high. Supervisors. How did that happen?” The waste was brought in by large dump Purcellville Mayor discusses sharing utilities with Hamilton CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 » BY ANDREA GAINES Purcellville’s multi-million-dollar waste water plant – and perfectly happy with that – the mayors of these – upgraded a number of years ago to prepare for rates two western Loudoun Towns have begun discussions on utilities and share the cost for both sides,” said Hamilton of growth that residents have soundly rejected – costs how they might “share” utilities, with Hamilton taking Mayor David R. Simpson. Town taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars an- “Neither Purcellville nor the up some of Purcellville’s excess capacity, and with Pur Town of Hamilton would want to put in more water lines nually in debt payments alone. cellville’s property owners benefitting from potentially - to promote growth. a much older plant, and, as it is builtNearby out to Hamilton capacity has It is beneficial to them and to us.” lower water and sewer rates. In an interview with the Blue Ridge Leader, Purcellville Advertise with us “I have often wondered why the towns couldn’t share Mayor Kwasi Fraser elaborated about the history of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 » PROPAN This ANE COST WinterD is the S TOO MU . Ideal MU N “So very CH happy we M Time CH H switched O ! O .Cto Hunt t ! J muc TIES Country. My only o Mak LL h monPeyE wRe would ha regret is that we didn e the A LPRO ve saved…However ’t do it sooner. Ho Switc C OKAFor years I have , we finally made w “I have h. @AT been receiving offer the right choice about been buying propane N s from our propane. from Hunt | JOH you have to enter other companies off previous Country for about 278 a contract with them. ering low rates, only propane provider was a year now. My 540-687-3608 O85.6 town and shop It never made sense to find out didn much higher priced. 03.5 for fuel for your to me that you ’t seem to care if The staff was rude huntcountrypr 7 under car, but not for your could drive around you gave them business and opane.com stands home. ar or this and caters It’s nice to see that ound for a new com not. When I was shopping T and to the customer. We a business owner pany, thankfully I f S AN the owner himself received our first deliv friendly, professional, ound Hunt Country. T brought it out. ery this past knowledg The staff is NS as the initial The service was excellent. Saturday them eable and genuinely CO account set-up w Of course, I’m your business. Hunt cared that you ga N as easy and the lady not surprised, Country prices ar ve OH E R in the office was so competitors. I e consistently lower J O K pleasant!” Caroline highly recommend t than their E B R . don’t, y hat you call Hunt Countr C I A T ou’re making a BIG($) y Propane, if you [email protected] S S O mistake. Thanks Hunt A Countr . y!” E Leesbr Less O R E • Local • Honest G E T M Just Listed Round Hill- 14 Acres with Pool & Guest Cottage in Horse Country

Just Listed Purcellville- Just Listed Leesburg- Fairy Tale Curb Appeal Leesburg- 14 acres & Pool- 12 Acres with Pond, 3 Acres with Beautiful Barn Outstanding Interior 1st Floor Master

Leesburg- July Delivery- Under Contract Hillsboro- Under Contract Round Hill- Under Contract Purcellville- 5 beds/5 baths- $679,900 Millstone Dr Prestwick Ct Paxson Rd

We need more Townhomes! Just Sold Purcellville- Just Sold Purcellville- Just Sold Purcellville- Just Sold Purcellville- Telegraph Springs Rd Willowin/Hunting Hills Black Oak Rd Miles Hawk Ter