Paeonian Springs
Graduates, high honors and a loss for the community
By Betty Shiflett
Graduates: We do have kids who have graduated this year. Brittany Douglas graduated from Loudoun Valley June 19. Her party is scheduled to take place here Sunday. She enjoyed time with friends at Myrtle Beach last week. Brittany is scheduled to attend James Madison University in the fall, where she will tackle marketing and graphic design.
Lucy Dawson did so well on her PSATs that she was invited to Stanford for a three-week camp. I understand she's interested in engineering, and that's what the camp is about. She hasn't graduated yet, and will turn 16 July 3 while she's away at camp at Stanford University. You go, girls.
High honors: A wonderful time was had by all as the Paeonian Springs Council gathered to honor folks who've donated their time and service to the village today and yesterday. We met at the home of John Davenport and Michelle Foster, where John did some good cookin' out. We've thanked people before, but it's the first time we've gathered to talk about it and hand out certificates. Thanks to Howard Gillis for gathering the information -- the names of people who have helped with events, opened their homes for meetings, served as officers, worked on getting the village named to the National Register of Historic Places, trimmed the village Christmas tree, kept Paeonian/Loudoun beautiful, allowed their properties to be used for events, contributed to welcome baskets, cut the grass on the north side of the W&OD trail, served refreshments after the Christmas tree lighting, designed event fliers, organized the July Fourth parade, played music at events, designed and maintained the PaeonianSprings.org Web site, and kept us updated on the proposed power lines. Marty Riddle produced the certificates. Thanks again, Howard and all. Good job.
In sympathy: We were saddened by the passing away of our sister, Jennie Jones, June 20. Jennie had lived in Paeonian for more than 60 years. Of course Loudoun County was her only home, except for time spent in Washington, D.C., during World War II. Our niece, Debbie, her husband, Glenn Neely, and the family appreciate the many expressions of sympathy we have received. Jennie will be greatly missed.
Birthday greetings next Wednesday to Jacqueline Weil. We wish you many more, Jackie.
Thought for the Day: "To live in the past is to miss today's opportunities and tomorrow's blessings."