The design of his own website was a fun activity that led Jim Russo into the position of NBA’s webmaster. Jim and his wife Karen moved to the area five years ago from Falls Church. In an effort to learn more about Nokesville, he looked for a website and discovered that it no longer existed. He finally made contact with the Nokesville Business Association and a concept for a new website was initiated.

The first and latest ideas are melding to become a great, user-friendly experience. Right now, you can find links to business websites, calendar of events, the Nokesville Biz newsletter, NBA membership information, and the local weather. And there are more improvements in the works, such as more detail on business members and stories, drop-down menus, dynamic content, a communication link between potential customers and the business searched.

While Jim spent many hours on the development phase of the website, his work is a bit easier now. He updates the site as information comes in and constantly reviews the website structure, since it (and any worth visiting) is always under construction. Along with the NBA, Jim hopes for a wider awareness of the site and its potential.

"It’s a different way to put the town on the map," he says, adding that people moving into the Linton Hall area don’t know we’re here, so the website would be a nice way to promote the area while keeping the country flavor alive.

The development of the website is sometimes a learn-by-doing effort. Jim and Karen first created their own for their "farmette" in New Baltimore as a side interest and way to communicate with family while building their home and show their chickens and ducks to website visitors. As for the NBA website, they feel it’s fun to do something worthwhile. It’s a nice way to help somebody and produce something for the community.

Jim and Karen have been married 17 years. Jim is a systems engineer for SAIC in Tyson’s Corner. Karen is an RN at Fauquier Hospital and ham radio operator. She uses a PSK-31 system, which links the radio, antenna and computer. In addition, she helps Jim with the NBA website by suggesting changes and options, giving feedback and assisting on content.

(July 2002)