
By Bob Weir
Prince William County Gainesville Supervisor
With Kim Hosen’s passing, the county has lost a voice of preservation, and I have lost a friend, confidant, and damper to my temper when warranted.
Kim was a long-time Prince William County resident and 2002 founder and executive of the Prince William Conservation Alliance.
She was more than just an expert on land use, the watershed, birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. She was a decent, kind, hardworking human being. She was humble, preferring to work her magic in the background, helping others find their own voices for environmental advocacy.
Kim leaves behind two sons to carry on her legacy of environmental stewardship.
It is impossible to fully enumerate the ways that Kim guided this county towards preservation and conservation. She never gave up on preserving Merrimac Farm and convinced Parks and Rec to plant trees and a wildflower meadow at Silver Lake after Tough Mudder’s contract was rescinded.
She met every challenge with quiet strength, particularly in the last 10 months of her life.
While her physical presence is no longer here, the legacy she leaves behind and the seeds she planted to protect Prince William, protect the rural crescent, implement smart land use policy, and promote sustainable quality community county-wide -live on in each and everyone one of us who had the privilege of knowing her.
PLN accepts letters to the editor on issues of local importance. Submit your letters to [email protected].
Recent Stories

The most anticipated night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, May 31, step into the romance, elegance, and charm of Paris—without ever leaving Washington, DC.
Join us for An Evening in Paris, an unforgettable soirĂ©e celebrating the best of French culture. Experience an immersive evening filled with gourmet French cuisine, refined wines, captivating live music, and the irresistible ambiance of the City of Light. Whether you’re a lifelong Francophile or simply love a night of sophistication, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.
✨ Highlights of the evening include:

Calling all WSHS Class of 1975 graduates! Our class has planned our 50-Year Class Reunion to be held September 26-28, 2025 in Woodbridge, Virginia. Reunion details and registration information are available to be sent to you.
To find out more, please email our reunion committee at [email protected]
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has