Living in LoCo
Disdain and Mistrust Rule Homeless Meeting
Tammi Marcoullier at 5:41 p.m., November 2, 2007 (80 comments)
Depending on where you sat on the issue last night, the event at Ashburn Elementary School to discuss the Good Shepherd Alliance's Ashburn facility for the homeless was either a) a meeting, b) a debate, c) an all-out smack-down.
By 6:15 p.m. the school parking lot was filled for the 6:30 p.m. meeting. More than 400 people packed the multi-purpose room to hear from government officials, resident groups, individual citizens and the GSA regarding plans for the organization's new facility on Ashburn Road.
Prior to the meeting, GSA announced that it would remove the "drop-in" services, but intend to keep the administrative offices and thrift store. The county will now be responsible for operating a drop-in service. And yes, budget money as well as a location will need to be found.
But even removing that service did not stop the majority of residents from vehement criticism of the GSA, both for ministering to needy people who could potentially be "criminals" and "violent" (oft repeated words) in the Ashburn community, and because of the organization's lack of clear communications throughout the process of preparing to move into the neighborhood.
"Trust" was the buzzword of the night, uttered by nearly every speaker after Pastor Dave Norman, who was the defacto spokesman for the Good Shepherd Alliance, brought it up in his opening statements.
When Norman said there are "people who asked if they could join us tonight," a group of homeless women and children stood. The reaction from the crowd was telling. Some would not even look in their direction, others had looks of disdain or shock. A few people smiled and applauded.
Norman said to the audience, we "apologize if we have failed you." He explained that they got the right permits, easements, and approvals. "Lori and the Board of Supervisors knew about this in June," he said. Later, Broad Run supervisor Lori Waters said that in the normal course of actions, a business would then go through the zoning office to get a determination on the use of the property and said that apparently GSA did not. It is currently under review, but a ruling will not be made until well after next week's election.
Bill Alexander spoke next on behalf of the "Old Ashburn" citizens group and included a slideshow. In the opening slide were the words, "Is GSA an honest broker?" "I personally, along with all of the citizens who have signed our petition, support people in need and we appreciate all of those who administer to people in need. We support a shelter that is located in an appropriate place," said Alexander.
An "appropriate place" was most often defined as Sterling or Leesburg.
I had originally guessed the room was split evenly on the issue, but through the course of the night, it seemed to sway in varying degrees of support and detraction. It was hard for many opposition speakers to get past rumors and inuendo about the criminal element the GSA would bring to Ashburn, and the alleged potential for violence against children. Property values was high on the list for a significant number of detractors and was even noted on one of the slides in Alexander's opening remarks.
It was also difficult, some audience members said, to trust what the GSA was saying after the organizaiton had been shown to waffle in various news reports in recent coverage where they attempted to define the services that would be offered at the Ashburn site.
The first public speaker was Fred Hufnagel from the Ashburn Station Community, a group of 38 homes that is 3/10 of a mile from the GSA building. He read from a two-page statement that addressed the groups concerns. At the end, he made a point that showed how serious the citizen groups are. "If GSA elects to ignore the voices of the surrounding public, they should recognize that they will operate this facility under a microscope. Any misstep or deviation from their stated course will result in a community uproar that will make the malcontent expresed to date pale in comparison."
A roaring ovation followed, including standing applause from just under half the room.
Even with some support from various citizens, including some social workers and volunteers, it seemed like the GSA rolled over and took a major beating. Board members and staff sat silently in the front row near the microphone and Norman said often, "We encourage you to hold our feet to the fire."
The way the speakers were organized, those who signed in went in order, so there was a "parade of pastors." By the time the sixth pastor took the microphone, there was a outraged response of "No more pastors!" and loud shouts from a section of audience members who said they'd essentially had enough of being preached to and that the first dozen or so speakers were getting more than the two-minute limit.
Over the course of the three and a half hour meeting, there were more comments than questions. But a few residents questioned Sheriff Simpson about whether or not he believes crime and violence is increased at the current shelters and drop-in facilities. "No, no m'aam, I don't," Simpson told one speaker and the audience. Another speaker said that out of 24 years in service, the GSA has had two criminal acts and that he wished the statistics were as good for our own communities.
John Feegle, a candidate for the Blue Ridge school board said, "This issue trumps my school board election. GSA has got to be supported. I believe you're being sold a bill of goods, you're victims of fear mongering." He said he has personally brought a lady to the GSA. "I'm not a pastor, I rarely even go to church," said Feelge, which got a few laughs.
Norman said that "some feel having the GSA in Ashburn is 'risky business' but what goes on here will be the same is what goes on in churches, mosques and synagogues all over the county. When someone shows up at our door, we will do our duty to care for them. We will open the office doors in ashburn because it is our mission and our human obligation. Rather than look at us as a pain, look at this as an opportunity."
It is exaclty that reason, knowing that GSA won't turn away someone who needs help, that has neighbors continuing their campaign, even late Friday afternoon, to shut this facility down, no matter what.
Many people left the meeting not knowing what will happen next. There is public hearing scheduled for Nov. 13 and a county meeting for the business plan scheduled for November 20. So it still remains to be seen what the county will do, what GSA will do, and what the residents will do -- whether in support of or opposition to the facility.
Some links for reference:
Washington Post: GSA Drops Plans
Good Shepherd Alliance: Petition
Old Ashburn Community Group: Petition
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Was our leader, Scott York, there? or did he leave this all on Lori's shoulders?
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Salmann I really feel sorry for you now. You really do need to get a life. I agree with John Feegle the GSA has to be supported. If its here in Ashburn or Sterling. It helps people in need and you may find yourself or or a family member in that situation some day. I hope it does not happen but if so I hope that they will be able to find help from a community that cares.
Posted by ed (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 7:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Don't start, Sally.
Posted by stephen (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 7:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ed, I support GSA 100 percent, even told them they could put their tent on my lot, if Melinda will allow it!
Where was York? did he come? he was supposed to be there? Maybe he was hiding in one of his closets?
Seriously, did he come?
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 8:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To Everyone - Don't tell Sally whether Scott York was there or not. Not knowing for a few days will do Sally some good and may allow her to focus on something else.
Posted by Brain.Roarity (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 8:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone know why GSA chose the Ashburn Rd location? What attracted them to that site?
Posted by siracuse (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is so sad. Whether or not the zoning was proper, the vehemence and anger of the response against GSA and the people they serve is a sorry commentary on the state of our Ashburn community.
Posted by rmaistros (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For once I find myself agreeing with Bob Maistros! I really was appalled by the anger and bad manners shown by some troublemakers towards well meaning pastors. Both sides deserved a fair hearing.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 2, 2007 at 11:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Gentlemen, I rest my case.
Posted by cer10death (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 6:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The obfuscation at the meeting was the GSA talking up services to families to create sympathy and support when the community problem with was that this center was promoted as a men’s center with GSA bussing men in from around the county. This is what got the packed house. GSA lost a lot of community support by their high handed holier than thou attitude.
There have been three homeless men discovered buy the Loudoun County Sheriffs office in the last four years in Ashburn according to a deputy at the meeting. We don’t have a problem in Ashburn. This was one of the few FACTS to come out of this meeting.
Posted by fpersing (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 7:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Another interesting FACT is that Sheriff Simpson reported that they have seen NO increase in criminal activity due to the shelters.
Posted by shevco (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 8:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Wolinski and Maistors agree! And I thought I was hallucinating when I saw that pig fly by this morning!
Yes,salmann, Scott York was there. But this wasn't his meeting....it was a political opportunist meeting set up, and woefully managed, by Lori Waters.
Posted by shevco (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Qotes like this from Leesburg Today and Lori Waters are one of the reasons the community felt they could act the way they did:
"Regardless of GSA's history in the community, Waters said the situation surrounding the Ashburn center has damaged the organization's reputation.
"Significant trust has been lost," she said. "I think it's going to take a lot of work to regain my trust, the community's trust and the county's trust."
GSA did not lie to anyone, and they do not deserve to be treated as liars.
I agree with both Jeff Wolinski and Bob Maistros, attacking our clergy was not right. I think the way this was handled by the politicians is what should be faulted.
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I f anyone wonders if Sally Mann has a serious problem with Lori Waters, please search around for her other comments. The meeting was as well run by her as could be expected given the high tensions. She brokered an excellent compromise lauded by all sides. This was absolutely not politically opportunistic, she simply was responding to the maelstrom churned up by Jack Ryan and his gang. She had no choice but to bring all sides together to air out their sides of the story. She was the only candidate that didn't make this political. Talk to Lori Waters yourself if you wonder why she has lost a degree of trust with GSA before you go off on her. Absolutely under no circumstances should you form an opinion based on anything Jack Ryan and his people say. They have proven time and time again that they have a problem telling the truth.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What a bunch of BULL, Jeff. She dumps on all of the churches and GSA claiming they have deceived the public somehow, and "it's going to take a lot of work to regain MY trust, the community's trust and the county's trust"---she does a horrible job, blames others--accuses GSA of deception and of being untrustworthy...doesn't she brag about her Christian credentials?
She is desperate to blame someone, everyone! the ministers, GSA, Jack Ryan, anyone, but herself, when she was the one in the position of responsibilty...and Scott York, some leader, fan the fires, blame everyone, but hide in the back, not having an ounce of courage to actually lead.
Lori and Scott are incredibly selfish, ego centric, hypocrites as shown by multiple zoning issues in Ashburn, not just this one. Vote them out!
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Must find the meds....must find the meds....
Posted by stephen (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ms. Waters did not even allow GSA a spot on the dais--how could they possibly explain anything or defend themseves? Was the meeting set up to protect her at the expense of others... so she could pronounce that they had "lost her trust?"
And many are saying that the catcalls at religious speakers and others in support of GSA were from Ms. Waters campaign...what is that all about? slaughter of the innocent at the mercy of our "leaders?"
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 10:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
From the description of the numbers of people attending, as well as the response to particular speakers, the community is more behind Lori than they are the GSA. Chalk up another loss by the high impact message team to accurately analyze the wants and desires of that neighborhood. Lori wins yet again in 3 days.
Posted by honchonumberone (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Ms. Waters did not even allow GSA a spot on the dais--And many are saying that the catcalls at religious speakers and others in support of GSA were from Ms. Waters campaign...what is that all about?"
What a yenta!! You did even attend the event. Seems like you need to butt out and keep you rumor-mongering to yourself for once.
Posted by edeaver (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Were you at the meeting Eric? No. People are saying that it was in large part Ms. Waters campaign doing the catcalls...
Why is the zoning administrator so busy she can't do a determination for GSA until weeks after the election? Even though they already reviewed the site plan and signed off on it, and already issued permits and zoning signed off on them (they are called "zoning permits"),,,even though they have already reviewed it for zoning compliance...but now after all this review during the past year, they do not have time to reveal their previous research?
Gosh, they prepared a staff report if FOUR days, just a few weeks ago for Scott York's employer about the zoning modification he wanted for his employer, Service Star, for Cameron Chase Village Center in Ashburn...and got it on a public hearing docket in less than a month..
You cannot trust LORI. Or Scott York for that matter, both of whom employ double standards, and deception to "win." That's is who is not trustworthy!
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Heckling Pastors????? You have got to be kidding me!!! This community is becoming an abomination. Maybe we should change our name to Babylon, 20147.
Posted by nozall (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 1:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Good Shepherd Alliance was founded in a Pastors house in 1983. This winter GSA will register its 4,000th homeless guest. Our Mary's House of Hope for homeless pregnant women in Purcellville is considered one of the finest shelters in the state.
The Daily Points of Light Award is given by The Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network, in partnership with the Knights of Columbus and the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is designed to honor individuals and organizations that have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities and in the nation, especially those focused on the goals for children and youth set by the Presidents’ Summit for America’s Future. The Good Shepherd Alliance was selected as the Daily Point of Light for Wednesday, August 11, 2004. Supreme Knight, Carl A. Anderson, of the Knights of Columbus said, “The Knights of Columbus extends sincere congratulations to The Good Shepherd Alliance. We thank you for putting your values into action and for giving unselfish service to others with such energy and commitment. You are an inspiration to us all."
We pray that you will be responsive to our plea for support. As in the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus said, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.” [Matthew 25: 35]. This is the mission of The Good Shepherd Alliance, Inc.
Mark Gunderman
GSA, Vice Chair
Posted by Mark_Gunderman (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sally, you obviously were NOT there. I was. NO ONE that I know to be a Lori Waters supporter was catcalling the ministers. ABSOLUTELY NOT. Quit spreading your baseless false rumors. Of course GSA was allowed to participate, they chose Pastor Dan to give their side of the story. He was the first speaker and did a very good job explaining the GSA position. The GSA Board was in the front row and answered questions when asked. Quit hurling around your innuendo. You have lost all credibility.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am repeating posts from the oldashburn yahoo group--people there are saying it was Lori Water's supporters who were catcalling...and people there were saying there was no one from GSA on the dais -- and it sounds like this is correct--GSA had to sign up to speak to present their side--they were not put on the dais to make the initial presentation and explanation, just summarily judged...and Lori Waters says their reputation is diminished, that it will be a long time before she "trusts' them again,,what is she talking about? they did not do anything but lawfully come in and apply to build a facility---how can she blame them for anything--how about a stop work order for Cameron Chase???
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 4:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff - glad to see that you have calmed down a little. Truth be told, Lori set up the meeting as a political event but did not bring it to any conclusion. She originally supported the center - or at least knew all about it and did nothing - then was against it. Now, no one has any idea what she will do.
Posted by dave.olson (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 4:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Guess what MANN, I was there and that's obviously more BS put out by those out to "get" Lori Waters because she won't bow down to the builders and realtors like Dave Olson. GSA absolutely did have time to present their story! You are full of bull! There was no "dais", GSA officials were in the front row with every opportunity to respond as they saw fit. Dave, I am always calm, but political dirty tricks do get me riled up. The compromise brokered by Waters will be up for board consideration after the election. of course she knew about the center, but the scope of what will occur there has evolved, even by GSA's admission. That is what has caused such community consternation. By the way, just who has that HOMBREW license plate anyway that was caught stealing Waters signs last week? For some reason the Sheriff's office is dragging their feet in releasing the identity to Lori so she can press charges. We'll find out this weekend from another source.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff, you sound like you are going to explode...she doesn't bow down to any builders or developers except York's employer Service Star, developing Cameron Chase in Ashburn...allowing special exception uses that are not allowed under the zoning ordinance--without public hearings, all approved while she was in office by site plan amendments in 2005 and 2006 and permits issued while she was in office (unlike the statements on her website which are blatant lies)--- no, she bows down to your special interests, PEC, who could care less about Ashburn, just using her as their tool--why is it that someone from Lovettsville (or Morrisonville) is so involved with defending her...where are her defenders in ASHBURN?
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 5:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm doing just fine. My blood presure is really good. Lori Waters has a ton of supporters in Ashburn, they're all out working hard for her this last weekend. I just happen to have the time to spend keeping you occupied. Shouldn't you be out helping Firetti with all those road signs?
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't put up signs except on my property, and my parents property, and other relatives property...just interesting that no one from Ashburn ever defends Ms. Waters, it is always you and Eric or Dean, who all live in Western Loudoun, and have an agenda that does not involve protecting Ashburn...for such a young guy, it is too bad you have to worry about your blood pressure...living a more honest clean life might help!
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 6:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To keep the record straight GSA was officially represented during their 15 minute presentation time by Pastor Dave Norman of the Crossroad Methodist Church in Ashburn. Pastor Dave is also a Board member of the GSA.
Posted by maravetz (anonymous) on November 3, 2007 at 8:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You people are amazing. Not an ounce of compassion, caring only about lining your greedy little pockets with votes and money.
Posted by teden (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ms. Waters claims that it is GSA who cannot be trusted. It is just the opposite. Look at the full page add she is running in Leesburg Today against Steve Snow, and another full page add endorsing Scott York..She waited until she got all the Republican money she could, then she violated the pledge she took as the Republican nominee to support the other Republican nominees. She would NEVER have been the nominee if she had been upfront about her intentions, and she would not have gotten all that add money or campaign support from the party if she had actively campaigned against her fellow nominees --she waited until the last week, when she had used the party for all it was worth before she did this... And the Post claims she is such an "honest" person. She took the Republican money that I gave to the party under false pretences and she is a fraud...just like she now claims that it is GSA's "trust" that is at issue, blaming others, as usual, using others, as usual...Why won't she release her own emails from the FOIA I requested? Why did she black out statements in clearly public documents (embarrassing, incriminating?) She is the one we cannot trust, not GSA--and she is very dangerous. Please vote her out of office (and Scott York too.)
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
More distortion from MANN12 (not banned yet?). She is not running a full page ad against Steve Snow, she isn't running against him! She is simply showing how Dale Polen Myers and her cohorts (including that jerk Snow) are out to "get her". She is pointing out that the Forces of Darkness are spreading tons of filthy lies about her, and have been planning this for ages. They are despicable. She is also not running a full page ad endorsing Scott York. Your are absolutely so blinded with your jealous rage towards her you no longer have simple reading comprehension in your skill set. Scott York has run a full page ad that includes HIS endorsement of Lori Waters. On the matter of the FOIA documents, I am the only other person with direct knowledge of what the redacted portions pertain to. They are discussions of a political nature which are absolutely NOT public documents. For those who don't know, Sally Mann contacted Phyllis Randall about two weeks ago (Phyllis graciously let Lori Waters know this) and offered to give her everything she received through her FOIA witch hunt. Sally Mann is obssessed with Lori Waters. Get over it. teden, I absolutely have compassion for the needy and commend all those who worked to find a solution palatable to all sides without trying to make political points.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 11:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
teden.
Here! Here!
You hit the nail squarely on the head. Politics, politics, politics. The reality is with the exception of one of these people... not a single one lives in Ashburn!
The only reason they even care is because of the backstabbing, slimeball politicing.
I hang my head in shame and I weep for our future.
Posted by cer10death (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You should hang your head in shame for Lori Waters, fraudulently taking Republican Party money and support under false pretenses. It's all about the money with her--just take it, even though you will not honor your pledge to them. They would have NEVER given it to her if they had any idea she would actively run adds against other Republicans...
It's is called FRAUD, Ms. Waters. I want the money back that I gave to support Republican candidates that went towards Lori Waters campaign. I am not giving to the party to help candidates who then turn around and publish full page adds against Republicans... She lied to me, as a party member.
You have not one ounce of honor, compassion, principle, honesty or integrity, Ms. Waters. Always calling into question the trust of others, we should have known it was YOU we cannot trust. After latching onto Scott York, ignoring all the things he has done for his employer in your district at Cameron Chase (remapping the land from keynote employment to residential? installing special exception uses?) it is no wonder that you would back stab the party now, or GSA for that matter.
The truth is, you can say you don't "trust" GSA, but their uses are by right, and have already been approved, and there is nothing you can do, but lead the electorate on like you will do something or can do something. How about a stop work order for Cameron Chase, Ms. Waters? Tired of the double standards, the dirty dealing, the dishonesty, Ms. Waters.
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 1:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MANN12,
You don't even live in Ashburn, do you? So what do you care WHAT Lori Waters does?
You're just PO'd about your own land deal, right? Something about the zoning laws and not being able to subdivide your land and cash in like the rest of them? That's what all this venom is REALLY all about, isn't it?
Correct me if I'm wrong, I am just getting this info third hand...
Posted by qazwsxedcrfv (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is my understanding that none of the Broad Run candidates has distinguished himself/herself on this issue and that all three candidates have offered similar opinions ("I'm ok with the thrift store but as for the rest"...lots of hemming and hawing and avoiding saying anything that might upset the voters.) That means that this is definitely not an issue that will sway undecided voters.
It is ironic that Ms. Mann, a member of the Republican party, would spend these past few weeks speaking against a Republican candidate and then accuse that candidate of speaking against other Republican candidates during these final days of the election. I haven't seen the ads so I can't judge them, but who is the "bad" Republican here? Fortunately I am not a member of either party so I am free to speak as I wish and make my own choices. Ms. Mann, you may speak against Mr. York, as he is running for the at-large seat, but you should spend your time campaigning for your own district's BOS candidate.
The real shame here is that someone (yes, Mr. Wolinski and Ms. Mann, I know who you each blame) has politicized this facility and made the GSA's job of educating the general public even more difficult. It makes sense that any decision would be postponed until after the election.
Posted by jleete (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Spin it around, ignore what Ms. Waters has done, that is all you have...it is a question of TRUST for Ms. Waters...She says we cannot TRUST GSA, that we should instead TRUST her...when she takes all kinds of money and aid from the Republican party, PROMISING to support Republicans, then after she has taken all the money and support from the party (including money that I gave to the party to support all Republicans) SHE WELCHES ON HER AGREEMENT. In the last week of the election, when she has already recieved all the benefit of her agreement from the Republicans, AND IT IS TOO LATE for them to deny her the funds, she spins around and is part of a We Love Scott York add, and publishes a full page add against Steve Snow...she has no principles, no honor-- what a money grubbing deceptive double talker!
I WANT MY MONEY BACK, MS. WATERS--THE MONEY THAT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY SPENT ON YOUR ADDS AND CAMPAIGN. I don't have to live in Ashburn to resent the fact that my money which was supposed to go to support Republicans went to someone who cannot even abide by her agreement with the party, who actively advertises against Republicans.
lt makes it all the more clear now that she calls into question the honor of GSA, suggesting we cannot trust all those people involved with GSA, the churches, etc.. You cannot believe a word she says, her "word" changes depending on what's in it for her..and the deal she struck with Scott York, to favor his employers' property in her district? why? Double standards, deception, dirty deeds, that is Ms. Waters...and hopefully the people will see how double dealing and double talking she really is, and vote for someone else! whose word you can TRUST.
Posted by salmann (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do believe that Jack Ryan did take positive steps to resolve the GSA issue. First, he asked the county to issue a stop order on the project in order to create some time for the true facts to come out. Second, he has proposed that the GSA put their commitments in a document that can be enforced, perhaps a covenant on the property itself.
Mr. Wolinski is correct about Ms. Waters ads - she is complaining that she has been victimized by the big boys. Her final ad in Ashburn Today is a long litany of things that have been to her. I personally don't want a victim in that office. We need someone who can stand up to the "slings and arrows" of office.
Posted by dave.olson (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Who can we trust? York got a staff report reviewd by several county agencies in four days for his employers' last zoning modification request, and on the public hearing docket in less than a month...but the zoning administrator needs more than a month to review all the previous approvals she has made for GSA, site plan approvals, zoning permit approvals...why does she need so much time? so Lori and Scott can game the electorate? pretending they will do something, when it has already been approved...? Do you really trust Lori Waters? or Scott York? they could have gotten an opinion from the zoning administrator in a day or so, if they had really wanted one...
Double standards, double dealing, double talking=Waters&York
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I firmly believe that anyone reading the last several comments will flock to help Lori Waters on election day. She absolutely can handle the slings and arrows of office, much better than those trying to unseat her. She has never played the victim card, that has been taken by her once vanquished foe.
Back to the subject matter, Lori Waters did a commendable job brokering a compromise approved by all sides. It truly is a shame that some want to make this a political hot potato one week before the election.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 8:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ms. Waters wants to spin it so that we have lost trust in GSA. How pitiful and selfish.
Truth is Ms. Waters is the one we cannot trust. She took campaign money from the Republican party, promising to support the party, then runs with Scott York against them all...shameful dishonesty...The Republicans would not have given her all that money if they had known in the last week of the election she would ignore her agreement and run a full page add against Steve Snow (endorsed by the Loudoun Times) or participate in a We Love Scott York add.
Scott York has already shown how little he cares about Ashburn with his employer's property at Cameron Chase--getting admin approvals for uses that violate previous proffers and are not allowed under the zoning ordinance...
You cannot trust Lori Waters, she does not stand for anything except her own blind ambition and lust for power. She has no standards except double standards, double talking, double dealiing.. dishonesty. She is not a conservative, she is not a Republican. She has done nothing but fight with her colleagues, blame others unfairly, and whine that she is a victim. She should not have run as a Republican given that she would run against them all. She should have let Jack Ryan have the nomination. But she selfishly wanted the party support and money from the party...
Please vote for someone else. As the episode with GSA has shown, it is not a matter of Trust with GSA, it is a matter of Trust for Lori Waters...
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Once again I wade into this morass to set the record straight. The Republicans as in the LCRC has given Lori Waters no money. They did run an ad that rightly pointed out that jack Ryan ran against her at the Republican Convention, lost after telling everyone he had it in the bag, urged people to support her for four more years, then turned around and decided to stay in the race to bash Waters at every opportunity. She did not run an ad with Scott York. Scott York ran an ad that endorses Lori Waters. She did not run an ad attacking Steve Snow, she simply pointed out that Dale Polen Myers, Steve Snow and that vile crew have been out to "get her". Lori Waters is absolutely tustworthy and a dedicated public servant, she has a record. All the commenter above me has is vindictiveness and a personal vendetta that is painfully obvious to all who can read. Back to the subject matter, Lori Waters did a fine job brokering a compromise with GSA that has satisfied nearly all involved.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 8:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff,
I beg to differ. Ms. Waters was in a full page ad with her picture, and the caption, "We love Scott York"--that is an endorsement by Lori Waters of Mr. York, as much as you want to parse words and try to say it is "his" endorsement of her. She is supposed to be a face for the Republican party, supporting the Republican nominee, Firetti, but the truth is she is not really a Republican, and she does not support any of the Republican candidates...she just wanted the support of the party. And there is a full page ad in Leesburg Today this week, put there by the Republican party supporting Ms. Waters. This is wrong, to be so two faced and opportunistic, taking the Republican money but attacking Republicans...not ethical, not Christian, not strong. Devious, selfish and wrong.
And the full page ad that she ran attacking Steve Snow was an unwarranted ad as much as you may dislike Mr. Snow, who many find "Head and Shoulders Above the Rest" endorsed by the Loudoun Times Mirror, and many others. This ad will backfire on her.
Ms. Waters has not brokered anything with GSA. She fanned some fires to get political attention, and has made an excuse that the zoning administrator is too busy to review the previous zoning approvals. Ms. Waters has merely avoided the issue. The excuse is not credible, especially given Scott York's recent ability to expedite very complicated staff reports for his employer in FOUR days, involving zoning, planning and the dept of transportation. Typical lack of principles by Ms. Waters, back peddling, failure to take responsibility, looking for excuses and blaming others...about having lost "trust" in GSA... she is the one who has lost all trust these last few weeks of the election, especially, with her double talk, double dealing and dishonesty.
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 9:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why is the incredible irony of Lori Waters actually proposing that the County build a facility being missed here? A well funded and established NGO was ready and willing to provide a needed service to the community and the Queen of Fiscal Conservatism instead promises to present the idea that the County will take this on. Hello???? How much money will that cost the county? The hypocracy of that is too much for even Wolinsky to defend, or am I missing somthing? Was Waters backed into a corner so tightly by Ryan that there was not other escape than to go against all of her well established principals?
At least Delgaudio is consistently an idiot, he doesn't stop being an idiot because of political pressure.
Posted by lunavalle27 (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dear Editors,
As a long time Washington Post reader, in the recent months it is my observation that Sally Mann’s self indulgent and long-winded comments have long ago reached saturation. She has rendered the comments section useless for anyone other than those logging on to defend themselves against her onslaught of allegations.
Ms. Mann continues to use the venerable Washington Post & it’s website/blogs as a means to carry on her own political editorial war. Ms. Mann is abusing the comment feature. Her comments are often not germane to the story written by the Post and seem intended to use the Post as a means to advance her own personal vendetta against certain elected officials and private citizens. The volume and length of her comments have overwhelmed other readers and limits their ability to comment or have their comments read.
I believe that Ms. Mann continues to exploit the Washington Post readership simply to further her own agenda and should have her comments limited. In closing Ms. Mann voluminous comments in various topics equates to nothing but SPAM.
Respectfully,
Erika M. Hodell-Cotti
Posted by Ehodell (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff - there was no agreement coming out of the Thursday meeting. Nor was there any real compromise. The pro-GSA crowd praised the work that GSA does with the homeless in spite of the fact that GSA itself said there would be no work with the homeless at this location. GSA promised limits on their activities but would not consider any formalized codification of the deal. Lori proposed that the activites be moved to Leesburg or Sterling and that the taxpayers pay for it. I did not see substantial acceptance of that position. I know you are in her corner because she agrees with you on building no additional homes in Loudoun, but that has blinded you to a poor performance on her part.
Posted by daveolson (anonymous) on November 4, 2007 at 11:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dave Olson, your last assertion is absolutely untrue. I know your occupation as a real estate agent probably moves you to criticize Waters for seeking to limit, not eliminate, density, but saying she does not want any homes built in Loudoun is absolutely a lie. After all, you and others have been criticizing her for her work on One Loudoun. The GSA compromise is still in development, and her political opponents continue to criticize her from both ends of the argument. Loudoun County was in the process of building its own shelter and the consolidation of activities there, with the help of GSA and other non-profits for operating needs, is a smart move, especially if it calms the nerves of those citizens who were so worked up over this. Did some of these citizens over-react? Certainly, but if this means that much to them and they are taxpayers, they deserve to be heard. The cost t the county is a drop in the bucket in terms of the ongoing school costs associated with approving massive residential rezonings that you and other real estate interests so favor.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A drop in the bucket? A drop in the bucket? There is no such thing as a drop in the bucket for Waters who goes through the budget with a fine tooth comb, who would vote against all funding of NGO's if they do not take on the impossible task of verfying status, who never wants to see Gov. money going to NGO's in the fisrt place. What disapointing hypocracy.
Posted by lunavalle27 (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 9:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
That it is a drop in the bucket to put a shelter somewhere else (where no one will object?) is a ridiculous assertion. I have spoken with a friend, knowledgeable in the real estate industry, who tells me that there are approximately 1000 homes in ashburn which will be foreclosed upon before December 1. That combined with the ghost town of MCI and recent AOL layoffs, and other financial issues (my husband's company laid off 3,000 people in the first wave of cuts nationwide) our County, and Ashburn maybe the most, is in trouble.
The issue of adding residential density in this election is a red herring . Our county is in for a tough few years with our budget--This is a crisis, and we need someone good to deal with it, honorably. We need somone we can trust to make the right decisions, not someone like Ms. Waters who says one thing, does another, denies she said what she said, and wiggles out of what she does...no principles, no stands, nothing we can depend on...just her own ambition and quest to rule.
We need someone with maturity, strength, wisdom, courage and HONESTY. Someone not beholden to western special interests, or Scott York's employer, ot any other power broker. Lori Waters is not it, she has failed miserably, and we need to elect someone else.
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Laura, I was wondering when someone would point out the idea that the taxpayers should pick it up.
I have no opinion on this as I was not present, but the coverage would seem to indicate that the meeting was not Loudoun's finest hour.
Posted by barbara_munsey (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I wish Lori Waters was running in my district - she'd have my vote and as many others and I could convince. I may not always agree with everything she says (from what I read in the papers )- or does - but I like that fact that she does get involved - right away - takes action and has impact. She's got guts and I'm sure a thick skin (judging by the above - it's definitely needed.) Too bad more of the supervisors weren't like her.
Posted by thinkquick (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Think Quick, most of Waters supporters don't live in her district--certainly her most vocal ones. They have another agenda, that does not include what is best for her district, or even the county as a whole....She is an essential vote. Is Cameron Chase a "drop in the bucket" too, Jeff? Just let it happen, give York (and Service Star) what he (they) need(s), in the bigger interests of buying what Western Loudoun wants?
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rinse, lather, repeat.
Bahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaa....
Posted by honchonumberone (anonymous) on November 5, 2007 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sally, you really need help. Fraud? I want my money back? Holy sheep dip! Ma'am, I believe you've lost your bleeding mind.
I still don't get it. Since you people don't live in Ashburn...why do you even care? We certainly don't give a rat's bottom what happens in west county, where you and Jeff live. I'll put this in terms you all can plainly understand what I'm saying: Mind your own business! You can't vote for Lori Waters, we can. Now...it's election day. Go vote for whatever candidate in your district and GO AWAY! Leave our politics alone. When are you going to figure out your opinions don't matter? Just a lot of hot, putrid air.
Posted by cer10death (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 5:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Most people do not think it is funny to allow the Chairman of the Board to install special exception uses on his employer's property without going through the public hearing process, and just allowing it to be done administratively with site plan approvals and zoning determination letters.
I personally have seen Ms. Waters' double talk for my own property, where she makes a motion to enforce an overlay district against me that had on its face been for a limited tima and had expired (but she says the expiration is a typo.)
The only reason Lori Waters ran as a Republican was to take the party's money and campaign support--how dishonest then, in the last week of the election to run ads against Republicans and for York? How dishonest can she get? Will say anything for money? Why didn't she run as the Independent, if she was going to act this way? She knew she would not get any support if she did this early on, so she waited until the last week.
Give the money back Lori, all of it, to the party that you took advantage of... and how about a STOP WORK on Cameron Chase, Ms. Waters and Mr. York?
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 5:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Too much...it's going to be a VERY long day for you. Got to go...I'm off to vote for Lori! Thanks Sally...without you, I wouldn't have known who to vote for. Honest!
Your tirades back fired on this voter.
Posted by cer10death (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 6:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Cer10 death, I know you live in Snow's district!
VOTE for an honest supervisor who will consistently do the right thing (not Lori Waters who has shown her stripes) and vote for an honest chairman, Mike Firetti!
Enough of the gaming of our electorate, with Cameron Chase, and letting their votes be bought by western interests! York only got a total of less than $1,000 donated to his campaign from all of eastern Loudoun--it all came from western loudoun or out of state. Waters has deceived her own party, providing most of her support! She will turn on all of you, too, in favor of behind the scene supporters.
York and Waters don't care about Ashburn. They are using Ashburn for other interests. Ashburn needs representative who will care about them FIRST.
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 6:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 9:18 a.m.
Jeff, you never answered my question...Is Cameron Chase also a "drop in the bucket?' Let York profit on that measely 12 acres in Ashburn, and have Lori look the other way, so you can get your way out west? She is your not one more lot ever in the west girl...that is the only reason you support any of this hypocricy! You have jumped all over other candidates for such trivial things (you like to major in minor things) but completely ignored the dishonesty, double talk and double dealing of Ms. Waters and Mr. York...
After the election, I will still be here,,,maybe it is you who will be taking a break? LI is!
Posted by MANN12 (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff, you are interested in the Waters race because the Green GOP (of which you are state coordinator) has banked on Mrs. Waters to be the face of the Republican party as she continues to ascend the ladder.
You and tc have predicated control of the Northern VA GOP on destroying all incumbents BUT Mrs. Waters, so that your faction is ready to move into the gap when Senator Warner retires, as Frank Wolf will someday too.
Consequently, I think this explains your group's attacks on Randall, who has run a clean, issues-oriented campaign, while campaigning for other Democratic candidates, and attacking nearly ALL Republicans.
Posted by barbara_munsey (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dear all,
My name is totally unimportant. Frankly, given this shark pool, who in the right mind would use their real name?
I can assure you that if I am Stephen Nichols, my wife will be very upset. Or not if he's particuarly weathly and good looking. As I am not...despite living in Ashburn.
Wanna laugh? Here's one for you: my kid's friends were overheard making fun of someone in their school who told them: "Ashburn: if you aint' wealthy...you ain't welcome!"
For the record: I've found just the opposite to actually be the case. This blog not withstanding. I moved from SnobTown USA...Charlottesville, VA. The people in Ashburn have been nothing but the friendliest neighbors I've ever had. Some of them read this blog...and are now my best friends. Each one is very important to me. Best thing I ever did was to move to Ashburn and have them as my neighbors. Not looking to leave anytime soon...that's for sure.
Posted by cer10death (anonymous) on November 6, 2007 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Barbara Munsey, you can rail on all you want about your skewed viewpoint on development, but it absolutely will not change the fact that that viewpoint was soundly trounced at the polls. Yes I am state coordinator of Republicans for Environmental Protection (rep.org), a grooup I have frankly not had much time to devote to lately because of my concentration on helping my friend Lori Waters get re-elected. She is the future of the GOP in Loudoun County, and she outclassed and outworked your greed-driven unethical side of the party at every step. Phyllis Randall is a very nice person who persoanlly ran a clean campaign. However I cannot say the same about the LCDC and its officer's behavior, which included stealing Waters' signs and making deals with Jack Ryan and Bob Onheiser to trash Waters at every opportunity. By the way, as of 2:00 AM last night, Phyllis Randall had graciously called Lori to concede. Lori is still waiting on that call from Jack Ryan. I think I'll still be asking her about that forthcoming call into next year. Ryan ran the most despicable campaign of the season, although Firetti gave him a run for the money. Firetti absolutely positively hurt all GOP candidates.
Posted by jeffwolinski (anonymous) on November 7, 2007 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am constantly amazed at people. As I understand it the majority in Loudoun is conservative, and I also understand that the majority of conservatives are, I would guess, people of faith. I would also guess that most of those people of faith are Christian. Why are we then not letting the Bible lead us towards true Christian charity?
Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the king will answer them,‘I tell you the truth, 39 just as you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters 40 of mine, you did it for me.’
Posted by troddy (anonymous) on November 7, 2007 at 10:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Today is a sad day for me after reading the article. Personally, I have worked at the Holiday Coalition for the past few years and also volunteered at LifeLine Pregnancy Crisis Center. The visitors at these centers are people who need a helping hand. The majority of these people are trying to keep their lifes together; after facing adversity. I personally hope the individuals who have concern about the population it will birng to our community will look to their left and then to their right. Someday it could be them or their neighbors in need. Presently, I am embarresed to reside in Ashbrun Farm.
Posted by scarlo (anonymous) on November 7, 2007 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by honchonumberone (anonymous) on November 7, 2007 at 3:58 p.m.
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