Loudoun Now for May 5, 2016 by Loudoun Now

LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

[ Vol. 1, No. 26 ]

[ loudounnow.com ]

[ May 5 – 11, 2016 ]

Judy Blue Eyes plays Tally Ho

28 Controversial AT&T expansion gains traction .........................5

Schools React to Rise in Suicides BY DANIELLE NADLER

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

A paramedic and firefighter EMT prep an ambulance for service Tuesday afternoon at the Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad station on Catoctin Circle in Leesburg. The county began sending bills for ambulance rides last year.

PAYING THE RESCUE BILL Volunteer Squads Count the Cost of Ambulance Billing BY RENSS GREENE

lmost a year since Loudoun County began billing for ambulance transports, the money is starting to trickle down to volunteer rescue squads. The county began sending out bills for ambulance rides for the first time last July. The chief target was insurance companies, Medicaid and Medicare, rather than residents’ wallets. Funding for ambulance services, county staff reasoned, was already built into insurance premiums and federal programs, and was just being left on the table. Exemptions and exceptions also were built into the billing for people who couldn’t

afford to pay for their transport—nobody would be sent to debt collection, and nobody’s credit rating would be impacted. The anticipated new collections—the program was budgeted to bring in $4.5 million this year, but estimates were reduced to $3.5 million in fiscal year 2017—would cover the program’s administrative costs and the rest would be sent out to help first responders. But volunteer rescue squads have worried that the billing would do more harm than good by cutting into their fundraising. “I have had people in the community ask me why they should continue to donate when, if they need 911, they’re going to be charged for it anyways,” said Purcellville Volunteer Rescue Squad President Aaron Kahn. “I just explain how, although the am-

! LE W SA NO N O

bulance billing is nice, expenses for running a rescue squad are still extremely high, and every dollar matters.” He said the key is letting the public know how much the work of a rescue squad costs, even at the two Loudoun stations where all the EMTs and drivers are volunteers. A new ambulance can cost $200,000, even before it is outfitted with medical equipment and Kahn said volunteer rescue squads must lean on the county more than ever for support. Now, with two quarters of billing and distribution done, the county has collected $932,445. Of that, $587,022 went back into the county through administrative costs EMERGENCIES >> 38

Four Loudoun teens have taken their lives so far this school year. That’s a big increase in a county that typically sees one youth suicide every other year. It’s prompted Loudoun public schools’ top psychologists to roll out a massive outreach effort to arm students at every high school with the know-how to recognize and respond to signs of suicidal behavior among their friends. “I’m very worried,” John Lody, director of the schools’ Office of Diagnostic and Prevention Services, said this week. “After this year, the whole rules changed for us.” Typically, every high school freshman sees a suicide prevention presentation during health class. But after the fourth local teenager committed suicide earlier this year, Lody and his team said they dropped everything to try to prevent more lives from being lost. “We went into action. We wanted to get the message out to as many as possible as quickly as possible,” he said. His team gave 400 suicide prevention presentations to 16,300 high school sophomores, juniors and seniors in four weeks, which Lody called “a massive effort.” The Acknowledge-Care-Tell booster program educates young people on not only how to prevent a friend from ending their life, but how to get help before anxiety, depression or just their high-stress school environment becomes overwhelming. “We’re capitalizing on the reality that friends of youth are more likely to know what’s going on with their peers,” Lody said.

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SUICIDE PREVENTION >> 39

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May 5 – 11, 2016

CLEAN SWEEP

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CLEAN SWEEP >> 39

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Purcellville Mayor Kwasi Fraser, center, greets voters as they head into the polls at Emerick Elementary School on Tuesday. Kwasi Fraser was reelected to a second term with 70.9 percent of the vote over challenger Joan Lehr.

Visit Loudoun Awards Scott York its Highest Honor BY RENSS GREENE

Businesses concerned about mosque expansion ... 6

Tourism Event of the Year, attendance over 3,000 PONY Nationals Girls Softball Tournament

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson embraces former Loudoun County Chairman Scott K. York, who won the 2015 Judy Patterson Tourism Award.

it makes this the best place to live, work and play.” Nissen told the audience about marketing to millennials, now the largest part of the workforce and soon to have more spending power than any other segment of the population. For millennials, he said, it’s all about connectivity and experiences over products, which is good news for the tourism industry, which competes with material products for disposable income. “Word of mouth has always been the driver of tourism,” Nissen said. About 260 people attended the luncheon, and a raffle during lunch raised

School Board weighs how to relieve overcrowding............ 13 Drug take-back event targets pain meds........................... 16

Tourism Event of the Year, attendance up to 3,000 Loudoun Wineries Association Ultimate Winemaker Experience Tourism Marketing Promotion/ Campaign Shocktober, Paxton Campus Tourism Volunteer of the Year Joe Becek, Docent and Historical Interpreter with Northern Virginia Parks Tourism Front-Line Employee of the Year Tina Kumpf, Sales Coordinator, Hilton Garden Inn Dulles

more than $2,500 for the Visit Loudoun Foundation. “We’re like swans,” said outgoing Visit Loudoun intern Shelby Stein. “Because we look polished, professional, and

Pangle enters Leesburg council race.............. 11

Tourism Management Employee of the Year Co-Winners Rohitha Basnayake, Assistant General Manager, Hampton Inn Cascades Lisa Wilhelm, Assistant Front Office Manager, Lansdowne Resort Steve Hines Partner of the Year Reston Limousine Distinguished Partnership Loudoun Department of Economic Development Judy Patterson Tourism Award Scott York, former member, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Distinguished Service Tyiesha Thaxton, Lansdowne Resort

pretty on the outside, but underneath the water, our feet are moving a mile a minute.”

Loudoun Moment ...............4 Loudoun Gov ......................5 Education ........................13 Crime ...............................16 Our Towns .........................20

rgreene@loudounnow.com

Biz ...................................24 LoCo Living ......................28 Classifieds .......................32 Opinion ............................36

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[ INDEX ]

2015 VISIT LOUDOUN TOURISM AWARD WINNERS

Visit Loudoun honored former County Chairman Scott K. York with its most prestigious award during its 20th annual meeting and tourism awards ceremony Tuesday. The Visit Loudoun board of directors voted by blind ballot to award York the 2015 Judy Patterson Tourism Award, named for one of its founding members. “This was all about teamwork, these past 16 years, and look at where we are today,” York said. Visit Loudoun established the award in 1998 to honor individuals and organizations that have contributed to Loudoun’s tourism industry. The 20th annual meeting and tourism awards ceremony was a chance to celebrate the work of the tourism and hospitality industry in Loudoun. “Talk about an invisible industry,” said Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson. “We’re everywhere.” The awards program also featured remarks from U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-VA-10) and Aaron Nissen, a senior strategy consultant at Destination Think!, a Canadian travel marketing firm. “Our economic development is really smart economic development,” Comstock said. “It brings us all together, and

ncumbent Purcellville Mayor Kwasi Fraser on Tuesday trounced his challenger—longtime Councilwoman Joan Lehr—leading a sweep of new faces onto to the Town Council. Fraser followed up on his surprise 2014 mayoral win by garnering 1,090 votes to Lehr’s 446. “I think it’s a clear mandate. The people have spoken,” Fraser said Tuesday night. “This is a council we can work with. We’ve put four people in place, and we all have the same vision, which is to listen to the voice of the people.” Lehr is the longest serving council member, first elected in 2008. She’ll leave the council when her term expires June 30. “I have had the opportunity to serve this town—two years on the Planning Commission and eight years on council,” Lehr said. “Purcellville is a great place to live, work and raise a family, and I hope it can stay that same way under the new council.” Planning Commissioner Chris Bledsoe, making his second bid for council, was the top vote-getter among council candidates with 954, followed by Plan-

May 5 – 11, 2016

Fraser Scores Landslide in Purcellville; New Faces Take Council Seats

loudounnow.com

[ A LOUDOUN MOMENT ]

Rescue Animals Arrive Ahead of ‘Homeward Bound’ Event The Loudoun County Animal Shelter in Waterford got some new tenants last week, ahead of the shelter’s “Homeward Bound” adoption event Saturday, May 7. The new animals up for adoption come from overcrowded shelters in Louisiana and West Virginia. And with Loudoun County fortunate to have an adopt-out rate in the 90th percentile, Loudoun County Animal Services was happy to receive animals looking for a Loudoun address. Last week, 12 dogs from New Orleans arrived at the shelter after a 15-hour drive. Other animals expected to arrive from partner shelters include cats, rabbits, turtles and other small animals. Every adopter at the May 7 event will receive an original Homeward Bound T-shirt as well as a goody bag for their new pet that will include toys, treats and gifts. All cats and dogs at the Homeward Bound event are spayed or neutered and have received age-appropriate vaccinations, a health certificate and a microchip. Available pets will be posted on the shelter’s website at loudoun.gov/animals and updates can be found on its Facebook page, facebook. com/loudounanimals. The May 7 event will run from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the shelter, 39820 Charles Town Pike in Waterford. — Kara C. Rodriguez

The Loudoun County Animal Shelter got an influx of animals from Louisiana and West Virginia ahead of its May 7 “Homeward Bound” adoption event.

Kathleen Brown, a volunteer with Loudoun County Animal Shelter, walks Codices back to her cage.

Deputy Chief Erin Peterson, of the Department of Animal Services for Loudoun County, gives Sudahfoot, a bearded dragon, a ride at the Loudoun County Animal Shelter.

Chief Mark Stacks, of the Department of Animal Services for Loudoun County, holds Bentley the cat at the shelter.

[ LOUDOUN ]

~ YARD SALE ~

Planning Commission Approves AT&T Expansion Atop Short Hill

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feet tall on top of the existing facility. The company has committed to a long-term invasive plant removal plan, planting a screen of trees, and to paint the building green and brown in attempt to make it less intrusive. But residents in northwestern Loudoun and some planning commissioners opposed the plan. Former Planning Commission Chairman Al Van Huyck, speaking

BY RENSS GREENE

AT&T will be allowed to construct a 160,000-square-foot building on top of Short Hill Mountain unless the Board of Supervisors overturns a Planning Commission decision. The communications company already has a massive underground switching station in a cleared lot on 176 acres on the ridge north of Hillsboro. The commission last week granted a permit to4.28.16 allowAvie a new facility up to 135 5/2/16 LN HalfPg (CS).pdf

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Planning Commissioner Charlie Douglas (Blue Ridge) said the commission had to answer only whether the proposed facility fit within the county’s general plan—and that it does.

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Signs and police deter the worshipers at ADAMS from taking up nearby businesses’ parking.

Mosque Expansion in Business Park Sparks Business Concerns

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The YMCA is hiring summer camp Site Supervisors, Sr. Camp Counselors, Camp Counselors, and Jr. Camp Counselors who will work with children ages 5-12 in Loudoun County in our summer day camp programs. Site Supervisors will be responsible for supervising a summer camp program with 30-70 children and for planning, coordinating, and implementing all summer camp activities under the guidelines of the YMCA curriculum. Camp counselors will assist in implementing all youth activities. Positions are available throughout Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, and South Riding.

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An application to move an All Dulles Area Muslim Society Center branch a few doors down in a business park has brought religious partners out in support and neighboring businesses out in protest. The ADAMS Center at Beaumeade is the first of its kind—a mosque renting space from a synagogue, the Beth Chaverim Reform Congregation. It’s also outgrown the space. After 200 congregants come in for Friday prayers, the doors are locked until the next hourly service to stay in compliance with fire code occupancy restrictions. ADAMS-Ashburn chairman Syed Alam said people are routinely turned away and asked to wait. So the worship center wants to move out of Beth Chaverim’s suite to another one a few doors down in the same building. This would allow the ADAMS branch to grow its services to 250 people at a time. The ADAMS Center enjoys a happy relationship with its landlords and with Christian Fellowship Church across the street, which has made parking available to worshipers at the mosque. But some business owners in the park say their operations are suffering. “The business park cannot handle an increase in load from multiple dimensions,” said David Donald, founder of nearby Keeper Technology LLC. “This is an incompatible weekday use in a business park with an already existing parking problem,” said Karen Hannum Donald, adding that the parking problem arose from Beth Chaverim’s “unchecked abuse” of its own special exception from 2006. Worship centers would usually be allowed by right in that area, but a condition of approval on Beaumeade Corporate Park in 1999 specified that all uses must go through a special exception process. Currently, parking spots are blocked off to prevent ADAMS congregants from taking up businesses’ parking, and the congregation pays for two off-duty police officers to direct traffic and monitor parking spaces. Speakers and planning commissioners are worried not only about parking around the building, but the additional parking across the

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

ADAMS-Ashburn chairman and Board of Trustees member Syed Alam said the ADAMS Center at Beaumeade doesn’t have room for all the people who want to pray there.

street—Beaumeade Circle is a four-lane road with no median, which congregants would need to cross. The ADAMS Center has said it would shuttle people to and from the parking lot across the street and ask VDOT to put in a crosswalk. Jennifer Elgin, from Beth Chaverim, and Michael Trivett from the Christian Fellowship Church, spoke in support of ADAMS’s application during the Planning Commission’s April 25 public hearing. “We are not just adjacent or nearby the property,” Trivett said. “We are nearby in relationship with the mosque. We are building friendships every day.” He said his church’s agreements with the ADAMS Center have always worked out, and he has no complaints about the mosque. County planner also recommended approval. Planning commissioners, worried about parking and the impact on businesses, moved the ADAMS Center’s application to a work session for further discussion. “There’s businesses that have substantial investment,” said Planning Commissioner Dan Lloyd (Sterling). “Their whole lives are on the line to be a success, and to disenfranchise these businesses, I really think we need to reconsider.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

Health Department Wins $140K to Fight Obesity

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Commissioner Eugene Scheel (Catoctin) was one of two commissioners to oppose the permit.

and Dan Lloyd (Sterling) opposed and Robert Klancher (Ashburn) absent. The Board of Supervisors can affirm or overturn the commission’s action “I understand that people want a beautiful viewshed,” said Commissioner Kathy Blackburn (Algonkian). “The thing is, the only way you can have a perfect, pristine viewshed is to purchase all of the viewshed. You don’t own the viewshed. You can enjoy it, but you don’t own it. You’ll have to buy it all in order to keep it the way you want it.” “This is a commission permit, and under the comprehensive plan, some of the very skinny guidelines are: does it meet with the General Plan?” said Commissioner Charlie Douglas (Blue Ridge). “Our statute says it does. I’ve researched it and it does. Is it perfect? Is it the best for all? No, it’s not, but that’s not what we’re voting on.”

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for the Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition, said the structure will be visible for “decades to come,” and that the building would be visible from both the Appalachian Trail and the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship, much of which is planned for a state park. Commissioner Eugene Scheel (Catoctin) also objected to the facility, saying AT&T had not given enough public notice. “Why was there no contact of people who lived on the eastern side of Short Hill?” Scheel asked. “This facility, if built, would be visible from the entire Loudoun Valley, and yet there was no attempt.” He said the technical language in the published public notices was “gobbledygook—you couldn’t understand them.” Lindsay Mohler, a Lovettsville resident, said she only heard about the application the morning before the commission’s April 25 meeting. Gem Bingol, representing the Piedmont Environmental Coalition, also objected. “Is there not a better place for a regional facility than the top of one of our mountains?” Because the new building was not included in the 1962 commission permit application that allowed the underground facility, the company was required to get another permit. The commission voted 6-2 to grant the request, with Commissioners Scheel

The Loudoun County Health Department has won a two-year, $140,000 grant from the National Women, Infants and Children Association and the Centers for Disease Control to fight childhood obesity. The department will work with the National WIC Association and the Loudoun Pediatric Obesity Coalition to bring fresh, local produce to needy families, create a “Living Healthy in Loudoun” resource guide, and help mothers access breastfeeding services and support, and promote better exercise habits. Health Department Director Dr. David Goodfriend said that coalitions and partnerships, such as with farmers’ markets, are a “key piece.” “Part of it is looking at our communities to see where are good, safe places for people to exercise, where

they can walk, run, and bicycle in a safe manner,” Goodfriend said. Dr. Janine Rethy, the health department’s physician advisor for chronic disease prevention, said the grant money will also be used for public education. “We found that many, many people who are eligible for SNAP [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits are not receiving SNAP benefits, and we know that families who receive SNAP benefits have much better health outcomes and lower rates of obesity,” Rethy said. SNAP benefits can now be used at three farmers’ markets in Loudoun, in many cases paying double. “Maybe we need to bring fresh fruits and vegetables to people where they are,” Rethy said. “Maybe we need to help people understand how to enroll in SNAP in the first place.”

May 5 – 11, 2016

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A consultant-prepared simulation of the view of AT&T’s proposed Short Hill facility as viewed from Mountain Road on the east side of Short Hill. Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

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[ COUNTY BRIEFS ] The county is also working with businesses to allow breastfeeding by new mothers, keeping mothers in the workforce and their children healthier. Rethy said county government is implementing a breastfeeding support policy for mothers and has opened a breast pumping room in the county offices. “We feel that stakeholders and providers in this community need also to be able to understand what’s out there, and understand what resources we do have, and communicate that to the people who need it the most,” Rethy said. rgreene@loudounnow.com

Ferguson Retires from HDRC Longtime Loudoun County Historic District Review Committee member Leah Thayer Ferguson has stepped down. First appointed to the panel in 2004, the Middleburg resident served as its chairwoman for more than seven years. Waterford resident and architect Karl Riedel succeeded her three years ago. Speaking from his Leesburg office

on Monday, Riedel praised Ferguson’s long tenure and leadership. “Skill, capability, she brought them to the job. She gave a lot, was always thoughtful, and always upheld the highest standards of preservation,” Riedel said. The seven-member committee is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to maintain the architectural and historic integrity of the county’s historic districts and review construction projects for conformance with the Historic District Guidelines. Ferguson was appointed to the panel by then-Supervisor Eleanor Towe (Blue Ridge), a Democrat, and re-appointed by Supervisor Geary Higgins (Catoctin), a Republican. Ferguson said she resigned for no other reason than “I was tired.” “I am still a strong believer, but need to work on other things,” she said. “It was always a labor of love.” mmorton@loudounnow.com

Community Services Board Hears about Service Shortfalls BY RENSS GREENE During the second of three town hall meetings held by the Loudoun Community Services Board, the theme was clear: We need more funding. One attendee at Monday’s night program at the Sterling Community Center identified herself as a client of the mental health system. “I actually had to use the crisis care unit, and I had to go to the one in Falls Church, because Loudoun County doesn’t have one,” she said. “Is there something that’s being put in the works to get one? Because it’s desperately needed. I’ve heard that from many, many people.” Another couple stood up to talk about their 36-year-old son suffering from schizoaffective disorder. They said their son cannot get services in the county, because his monthly social security disability payment, $771, is too high for him to qualify for Medicaid. They said he has been hospitalized six times in the past two years. “We’re caught in a real bind here, and there are probably other people in that situation,” they said. “He is again in the hospital as we speak, and when he gets out, I’m quite sure once again the psychiatrist will recommend that he have out-

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patient treatment.” Other attendees also said the Paxton Campus in Leesburg and other charitable services can’t keep up with the demand for services. One couple pointed out the desperate lack of funding and capacity at group homes. “Our daughter went on the waitlist when she was 12,” they said. “She’s 27.” “We’ve been screaming about that, and matter of fact, we’re going to scream louder,” Community Services Board Chairman Angelo Wider said. He promised not to get political, but encouraged everyone at the meeting to make their voices heard to county supervisors. “Just imagine all of us together at a Board of Supervisors meeting and articulating the same things,” Wider said. “They’d have to listen to us.” The CSB oversees the county Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services. The next CSB town hall meeting will be from 5-7 p.m. on May 10, at Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane in Purcellville. “The county is continuing to grow, and we need to figure out a way to get out in front of it and stay in front of it,” Wider said. rgreene@loudounnow.com

[ LEESBURG ]

May 5 – 11, 2016

Piano Company Moves Back Downtown BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

krodriguez@loudounnow.com

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long-time Leesburg business has returned to the downtown area. The Piano Company is back at 206 East Market St., just a stone’s throw from its first home when the company was formed more than 30 years ago. That is when Steven Cunningham, a high school band teacher, started a piano technical services company while he was living in Leesburg. As his reputation grew, he opened his own piano store in downtown Leesburg. Within a few years, that store outgrew its showroom space and Cunningham moved into larger digs at Leesburg’s Battlefield Shopping Center. The Piano Company would operate in the Battlefield Shopping Center for decades. While the store has remained a fixture for piano enthusiasts, the leadership at the top has changed since its inception. Ashburn resident Robert Purdon, himself a well-known piano expert, joined The Piano Company in 1999, and was named vice president and general manager in 2003 after Cunningham separated the piano showroom from his piano tuning business. Cunningham continues to travel nationwide, performing piano technical services for clients. Purdon’s wife, Antoinette, a former California adult school teacher, joined the company in 2004. She opened The Piano Company’s adjunct store in Dulles Town Center 10 years later. Two of their children, Christian and Joseph, have also been a part of the company since 2014. Recently, as the couple wrestled with selecting the best new location for their business, they decided that leaving

Leesburg was not an option. Citing the ideal location of the new shop—across from the County Government Center and with a parking lot to boot—the Purdons also longed for the “downtown feel,” having both grown up in metropolitan areas. “Many of our customers enjoy coming to the Leesburg area rather than traveling to the heavier traffic areas such as DC or Tyson’s,” Antoinette Purdon said. “We often hear from customers that they have enjoyed the ambiance of the Leesburg experience.” The Purdons said they look forward to participating in First Friday events and being part of the overall downtown vibrancy. As for what has allowed their company to flourish for so many years, the Purdons point to their business model, where employees are not paid on commission so the focus on attending to customers is on educating rather than hard selling. “It is the sincere desire of each member of our staff to educate the public as to what is real in the piano world of today; to provide prospective customers the ability to choose wisely from a wide selection of fine pianos,” Antoinette Purdon said. Going forward, the Purdons aim to continue their education efforts for customers and downtown patrons, offering a selection of products that cater to every piano lover’s whim. The couple have recently supplemented their large supply with trendy, lifestyle-friendly pianos like the Kawai hybrid and digital pianos. For more information on The Piano Company, go to pianoco.com.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

The Piano Company owners Antoinette and Bob Pardon pose for a photo in the store’s new location, at 206 E Market St. in Leesburg.

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County, Town Leaders Weigh Courthouse Parking Alternative BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ The Town of Leesburg and Loudoun County government appear to be considering an option to avoid adding a fourth level to the planned courthouse parking garage. The Town Council entered into closed session during its April 26 meeting to discuss a proposal to authorize Town Manager Kaj Dentler to pursue an agreement with the county to provide additional public parking spaces in downtown Leesburg. The closed session came two months after the council approved several applications related to the expansion of the Loudoun County Courthouse complex, the most controversial of which paved the way for the construction of a four-story parking garage at the Pennington parking lot property off North and Church streets. Council members present emerged from the closed session without taking a vote on the resolution, instead adjourning the bimonthly meeting. County Administrator Tim Hemstreet and Bob White, of Landmark Commercial, the leasing agency for the Courthouse Square project, were among those who joined council members in the closed session. Dozens of neighbors signed a petition opposing the fourth level of the garage, which they said would make the structure out of character with the neighborhood. Council members, too, looked for ways to lower height for the garage, which county representatives said was needed to provide additional parking for the Loudoun County Government Center. Contributing to the government center’s parking shortage at the county garage was the loss of spaces county staff members had used in the neighboring former Loudoun Times-Mirror parking lot, which is part of the Courthouse Square development. The approved Courthouse Square project includes about 200

spaces of structured parking in its five-story main building. Construction has not begun on the 111,000-squarefoot development that was originally planned for spring 2016 occupancy. In the week since the closed session, those who protested the parking garage project—namely those living in the vicinity of North and Church streets—rallied to support a parking alternative, and sent a flurry of emails to elected leaders hoping for a positive resolution. Among those was North Street resident JD Norman, who had previously started a petition, found online at NoPenningtonGarage.com, stating objections to the parking project. On Tuesday, he emailed the members of the Board of Supervisors directly. “The residents of North Street are emphatically urging you to reach an agreement with the Town of Leesburg to relocate the fourth floor parking deck,” he wrote in an email shared with Loudoun Now. “While the local neighborhood recognizes the need for the expansion of the court complex and we appreciate the concessions the County has already made on the project, we remain steadfast in our opposition to the Pennington Garage. … We understand that we have already lost the fight to relocate the garage. However, you can help relieve future traffic problems and unsightliness of the garage by relocating the fourth floor.” It is possible the Board of Supervisors could hold its own closed session on the matter. For the town’s part, Mayor David Butler said this week that town leaders remain devoted to the original promise to “strongly pursue” an alternative to the proposed fourth level of the garage. “I’m hoping for a positive outcome from both bodies,” he said. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

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11 May 5 – 11, 2016

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A downtown Leesburg businesswoman and economic development advocate has thrown her hat into the Town Council race. Gwen Pangle confirmed this week that she has filed paperwork to run in November’s council elections. She is gunning for one of three council seats on the ballot. A 20-year Leesburg resident, Pangle is the owner of Pangle & Associates real estate firm. She serves as the chairwoman of both the Leesburg Downtown Business Association and the Leesburg Economic Development Commission. She also serves on the board of the Friends of Leesburg Public Art, the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and holds leadership positions in her industry at the local, state and national levels. “I don’t know that there’s ever a good time to do this,” Pangle joked, referring to her council run. She said she’s been encouraged to run for a Town Council seat in the past because of her extensive community involvement, but it was a recent conversation with a good friend that got her in the race this year. “I didn’t really see the cohesiveness I would like to see [on council]. I kept yammering about it to one of my girlfriends and she said ‘I’ve known you a long time. When you start complaining, if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem,’” Pangle recalled. “We can either accept what’s happening, try to change it or leave it. I couldn’t accept it, I decided that I probably was never going to leave it. The only option was to try to help change it.” Although she admits that she never thought herself “a political person,” she is one who “loves to help affect change.” And one area she would like to help affect change is where her company resides and she spends much of her professional time now—downtown Leesburg. “We have a lovely, charming, historic town but lovely, charming and historic won’t keep the shops open downtown. We need for our businesses to thrive. We need to give people a reason to come downtown, make it a destination place.

And what’s happening around us with the growth of the airport, the extension of the Silver Line, the growth in Loudoun County…. that’s all going to affect us. Are we going to be a part of it and fit in with it, flourish as a historic, charming, little town, but add the things we need to add to keep people coming into Leesburg and spending money here? That’s the delicate balance and conversation that needs to be had,” she said. Pangle said she would love to see more “collaboration and cooperation” on the council, and said she is one who favors compromise. “I don’t believe there’s anyone who sits on council and wants to do harm. We just have different ways of achieving the same goal. I think we get tied up in the tug of war that pits one against the other,” she said. “We have an obligation to serve the people of Leesburg and I believe they will feel better if the people serving them like and respect each other and work well together.” Pangle said she believes she brings several important perspectives to the council—one of a business owner and woman entrepreneur; a single mother who raised both her and her sister’s children in Loudoun County; and a longtime active participant in her community. “I enjoy trying to make a difference, being a part of my community, and having a seat at the table to try to make things better,” she said. “You live here, you want your children to live here, things are rapidly changing. It’s a good thing to be involved and try to shape that.” Pangle is aiming for a campaign kickoff in June, hopefully at her son-in-law’s new venture, Dog Money Brewery and Restaurant, at the former Vintage 50 building. A website and Facebook page are also in the works, she said. Pangle joins Ron Campbell and John Hilton as council candidates. The seats of Katie Hammler, Tom Dunn and Bruce Gemmill expire Dec. 31. The council incumbents have not announced their plans.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Gwen Pangle, a 20-year Leesburg resident, has entered the race for Town Council.

loudounnow.com

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Three months after a historic winter storm, Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel last week delivered to the Leesburg Town Council a final report on the oft-discussed snow removal efforts. The town was criticized for its snow removal efforts after 34 inches were dumped on Leesburg during January’s Winter Storm Jonas. “Leesburg and Loudoun County were really the bullseye of this Mid-Atlantic East Coast storm,” Markel said, noting the snow totals recorded over the Jan. 22-23 snowfall made it the largest snow event in the past 30 years. Town crews were fully mobilized before the first flakes of the storm fell at mid-day on Friday, Jan. 22, Markel said, and continued working 12hour shifts for seven straight days, resulting in 175 continuous hours. This was in addition to support contractors, he said. Snow removal efforts were focused on clearing primary roads on Saturday, Sunday and Monday following the storm, Markel said. Equipment started in neighborhoods on that Monday afternoon and downtown street clearing began on Tuesday. “All of the town’s 255 lane miles had at least one pass by Wednesday,” Markel said, noting that the town streets were cleared ahead of VDOT’s schedule. One of the major criticisms levied at the town government by Leesburg residents was the attention to primary roads, with many stuck at home for several days waiting for their streets to be cleared. Markel said one key takeaway from the storm’s aftermath was setting better expectations for residents. “We have to balance what’s financially responsible with what’s a reasonable amount of time to wait to be plowed out,” he said. The town staff will be looking into possibly adding more snow emergency routes throughout town to keep more streets clear, and Markel said residents can do their part by removing obstructions—cars, trailers, basketball hoops, to name a few— from the streets so roads can be more expeditiously cleared. In some cases,

Markel said, snow plows and trucks were too wide to fit down neighborhood streets because of on-street obstructions, and the streets needed to wait for smaller equipment to come in to be cleared. Or, to avoid damaging cars and other things parked on the side of the road, trucks were only able to do a single pass on the road and then needed to return later. Town Manager Kaj Dentler emphasized that Leesburg did as well, if not better, than VDOT and other parts of Northern Virginia in terms of clearing snow, but said for some reason it appeared the town “seemed to be the spotlight in terms of media coverage that was not positive.”

Beth Chaverim Reform Congregation Welcomes Rabbi The Beth Chaverim Reform Congregation celebrated the installation of Rabbi Amy Sapowith with a series of public events last weekend. Sapowith began her role as spiritual leader of the synagogue last July. Previously, she served for 12 years as the associate rabbi at Temple Sinai in Rochester, NY. While there, she developed Family High Holiday Services and introduced “Yoga with a Jewish Accent.” She was active in the community serving as president of the Rochester Board of Rabbis, chair of the Community Relations committee of the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester, and as a founding member of the Rochester Regional Coalition Against Human Trafficking. “Once I met the people, I knew, this is where I wanted to be,” Sapowith said of her move the Leesburg congregation. “The diversity of backgrounds, geographies, and politics makes for an attractive richness, and significantly, the overall impression is warm, comfortable, and down to earth.” “We are so pleased to welcome Rabbi Sapowith to our House of Friends,” BCRC President Jennifer Elgin stated. Her leadership and warmth are enabling us to continue building the strong, open and vibrant community that we envision.” Learn more at about the Reform Jewish congregation at bethchaverim.org. — Kara C. Rodriguez

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[ E D U C AT I O N ]

[ SCHOOL NOTES ]

13 May 5 – 11, 2016

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Tuscarora High School students Brenna Cochran, Brie Gisseman and Anna Calloway-Jones plant a redbud that will represent one of the 620,000 soldiers who died during the Civil War.

Tuscarora High School Joins Living Legacy Project BY NORMAN K. STYER

tudents at Tuscarora High School spent part of Saturday with their hands in the dirt to help with a project that will both beautify the school and set the roots of a lasting history lesson. More than 50 volunteers planted 65 trees at the entrance of the Leesburg school’s campus as part of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership’s Living Legacy Project, an ambitious effort to plant or dedicate a specific tree for each of the 620,000 soldiers who died during the Civil War. Saturday’s planting means that students entering the campus next spring will be greeted by the brilliant blooms of redbud trees, but the students’ work is not over.

The school’s environmental science students took on stewardship of the planting site and will ensure the trees are watered regularly. History students will research the fallen soldiers being honored with each tree, which will be geotagged to share the story of the soldier’s life. “This project has been a real inspiration to our school, aligning beautifully with our ‘One to the World’ initiative by connecting our students with environmental and historic preservation professionals in ways that integrate environmental stewardship, technology, and relevance to their daily lives,” Miriam Westervelt, Tuscarora High School Environmental Science teacher, said in a statement. The 65 trees were also planted to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Ju-

nior Woman’s Club of Loudoun. Club members and other donors contributed funds to support the project. “Our members have built a legacy of service in Loudoun County and this partnership with the Journey [Through Hallowed Ground] and Tuscarora High School is an excellent way to celebrate our anniversary, further expand our reach and engage with community members,” JWCL President Trina Behbahani said. The Living Legacy Project eventually will stretch along the 180-mile Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Scenic Byway corridor between Gettysburg, PA, to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville. nstyere@loudounnow.com

Loudoun Board Debates How to Relieve Overcrowded Schools

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Danielle Banks, right, is joined by her Lenah Run neighbors during a public hearing Monday on the pending attendance boundary changes.

“Something’s got to give,” Morse said during a School Board meeting Monday. “It is the fastest growing area in the county, one of the fastest growing in the state and the nation. At some

point, a school has so many students it’s not functional.” The board is scheduled to adopt new OVERCROWDING >> 14

SCHOOL NOTES >> 15

loudounnow.com

As Loudoun County school leaders prepare for the opening of two middle schools and two high schools over the next five years, they are debating how to provide relief to some of the most overcrowded schools while avoiding having to reassign students multiple times. School Board member Jeff Morse (Dulles) says the priority should be on providing immediate relief to packed middle schools south of Rt. 50, even though a proposal he presented last week could mean some students will change secondary schools more than once over the next few years.

LearningRx’s “brain training centers” in Leesburg, Fairfax, Reston and Vienna donated more than 20,000 LEGOs to the Autism Society of Northern Virginia. Many of the LEGOs were donated by LearningRx customers. To mark the occasion of meeting the donation goal, LearningRx directors walked across a 10-foot “LEGO wall of fire” in bare feet. “We’re grateful to the community to help us support autism awareness and surpassed our LEGO goal,” stated Maureen Loftus, executive director of LearningRx of Reston and Vienna. “Our Lego Walk of Fire was everything you’d expect. It was painful, but fun—the key is to walk quickly.” Autism Society of Northern Virginia provides LEGO-based activities but has had to rent the blocks. The goal of the donation drive is for the organization to have its own set of LEGOs to be used at its autism outreach programs. LearningRx provides cognitive skills training to all ages, from preschoolers or school-age children struggling in school, students and adults looking for a competitive edge, the older adult dealing with dementia or memory loss, or the athlete or military veteran who is coping with a traumatic brain injury. The center creates a brain training program that is customized by an expert trainer, with oneon-one guidance and feedback throughout the program. The Leesburg location is at 305 Harrison St SE Suite 100A. Learn more at learningrx.com.

BY DANIELLE NADLER

LEGO Drive a Success

Courtesy of LearningRx

A LearningRx director walks the “LEGO wall of fire” to commemorate the donation of 20,000 LEGOs for Autism Society of Northern Virginia.

loudounnow.com

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Overcrowding << FROM 13 attendance zone boundaries Tuesday, May 10, that could impact students in as many as 31 middle and high schools, from as far north as Ashburn to the southern tip of the county. The changes come ahead of the opening of Brambleton Middle School north of Rt. 50 in August 2017 and the yet-to-be-named high school (HS-11) on the same campus two years later. As board members shift attendance lines, they are also accounting for the opening of two more schools: a middle school (MS-7) and a high school (HS-9), both planned for the Dulles South area. MS-7 is planned to open in August 2018 on a site along Braddock Road, and HS-9 is planned to open in August 2021, but the school system does not yet have a site for it. Senior school system staff members presented their recommended boundary map earlier this month, and board Chairman Eric Hornberger (Ashburn) drafted a second proposal, called Plan 2. The plans avoid making big boundary adjustments in the Dulles South planning area, south of Rt. 50, with the idea that the board will go through another round of boundary adjustments next year when it has updated enrollment projections and knows the location of HS-9. But Morse said neither of those proposals do enough to bring down enrollment at the county’s most overcrowded schools. His suggestion, called Plan 3, focuses on dropping student populations at secondary schools specifically for the 2017-18 academic year. The Dulles South middle schools will see what’s been called “an enrollment hump” that year, between the opening of Brambleton Middle School and MS-7 the following year. Plan 2 would leave Mercer Middle School with 33 percent—or about 500 students—above its building capacity for the 2017-18 school year. Morse’s Plan 3 would bring its enrollment down to 1,810 students that year, 19 percent over capacity. He said, once schools reach 20 percent more students than the building is designed for, “you start putting classrooms out in the hallway and in staff lounges. It is disruptive to the children. It’s disruptive to the students, to the staff.” Joy Maloney (Broad Run) and Hornberger said they’re concerned that Morse’s plan leaves Eagle Ridge with too many students at the expense of relieving middle schools to the south. Stone Hill Middle School, for example, would open with 400 students, or 31 percent, below capacity. “It doesn’t seem right to have Eagle Ridge over capacity and have Stone Hill below capacity for so long waiting for growth that may come. If it comes, then we can adjust boundaries then,” Maloney said. Morse, along with Beth Huck (At

“IT IS THE FASTEST GROWING AREA IN THE COUNTY, ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING IN THE STATE AND THE NATION. AT SOME POINT, A SCHOOL HAS SO MANY STUDENTS IT’S NOT FUNCTIONAL.” Large), noted that there have been thousands of new homes approved for construction near Stone Hill that will likely bring a lot more students— gradually or overnight. Eagle Ridge’s enrollment numbers are more predictable, he said, “while Stone Hill is the wild wild west.” Sam Adamo, executive director of Planning and Legislative Services, told board members it would be smarter to move fewer students now, mostly in the Dulles North planning area, and make most of the attendance changes south of Rt. 50 this fall or next spring. “We’ll know by then the location for HS-9, which would minimize the number of times students are moved.” When the board has settled on the site for HS-9, and has new enrollment projections in September, Adamo wants to explore the option of opening MS-7 as an intermediate school that houses sixth- and seventh-grade students. Eighth- and ninth-grade students would attend classes at Mercer Middle School, and 10th- through 12th-grade students would go to John Champe High School. Most board members sounded interested in considering the option. “We’d be hoping we could articulate that and fine tune that plan once we have a high school site,” Adamo said. About two dozen speakers addressed the board during a final public hearing on the boundary changes Monday. Most urged board members to go with a plan that provides the most stability for students. Taja Valluri, a seventh-grader at Eagle Ridge Middle School, told board members he spoke to them three years ago. “You may not remember it, but I cannot forget because of the pain I was put through,” he said. He attended three elementary schools and might be reassigned again from the Eagle Ridge Middle/Stone Bridge High cluster to the Stone Hill Middle/Rock Ridge High cluster under Plan 3. “We’ve been moved a lot and, for once, we’d appreciate it if the board could keep us where we are,” he said. To watch the School Board’s vote to adopt a boundary plan, go to http:// lcps.org/Page/140009. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 10. dnadler@loudounnow.com

<< FROM 13

Freedom Prom Raises Big Bucks for Charity

Ashburn Student Wins Virginia STEM Essay Contest

Registration is underway for Extreme Journey Summer Camp, a summer day camp organized by the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership. The camp uses multimedia, local experts, and the region’s his-

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Women Leadership Program Accepting Applications The office of Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-VA-10) is accepting applications for the summer 2016 session of the 10th Congressional District Young Women Leadership Program. The deadline to apply is May 15. The program provides middle school and high school girls with the opportunity to meet and interact with women in leadership positions in government, medicine, technology, philanthropy and business. The girls will have the opportunity to learn about career opportunities in various fields, the legislative process, develop their leadership skills, identify their strengths and interests, and practice effective communication with others to help inform their future educational and career goals. The program runs from midJune through late August. Comstock’s office will hold two to four events each month through the 10th Congressional District and at the U.S. Capitol. Those interested can apply at comstock.house.gov/ services/young-women-leadership-program-application or go to comstock.house.gov to learn more. Contact Comstock’s office at 202225-5136 for more information.

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An Ashburn teen is one of five Virginia high school junior and senior girls who won the Virginia Council on Women’s STEM Essay Contest. Jessica Liu, a student at Loudoun’s Academy of Science, won a $9,000 scholarship for her essay. She is one of more than 500 teenage girls from across the commonwealth who submitted essays on their vision for future careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Liu and the four other winners were recognized at a reception hosted by Gov. Terry McAuliffe and First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe at the Executive Mansion in Richmond on April 20. While announcing the essay contest award recipients, Dorothy McAuliffe stated, “Encouraging STEM education amongst our young people will assist in this administration’s vision of building a new Virginia economy. The governor and I understand that if we are to build a workforce of the future, it is important that we also advocate for more girls and women to excel in these high demand STEM fields.”

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Freedom High School raised $48,656 for pediatric cancer research through its charity prom on April 23. Prom sponsors Jessica Connors and Donna Draisey, Principal Doug Fulton and junior and senior class officers traveled to Memphis, TN, to present a $45,000 check to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital last week. Loudoun County charities that battle pediatric cancer, including Ellie’s Hats, Smashing Walnuts, Still Brave and Team Mathias, also received funds. Freedom High School dedicated money that would usually go toward prom extravagances to charity instead. To help raise the money, faculty served dinner in the cafeteria for about 300 students. The dinner was catered by Whole Foods Market and featured live entertainment from Assistant Principal Joseph Gabalski, and other musicians. The dance was held in the gym, and more than 500 students attended, 130 more than last year’s prom. See a video about the students’ effort in the Loudoun Unscripted section at loudounnow.com.

toric resources to provide middle school students with a chance to experience the nation’s 38th National Heritage Area. The camps are scheduled for July 11-22, July 18-29, and July 25-August 5. The first and third camps will take place at Harper Park Middle School in Leesburg, and the second camp will be held at Smart’s Mill Middle School in Leesburg. The program works with Loudoun County Public Schools and the Loudoun County Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department to provide students with the opportunity to hike, bike and canoe through national parks, historic sites and rivers between Gettysburg, PA, and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, VA. After being recruited as agents in the “Journey Intelligence Agency,” students will spend time with National Park Service Rangers, expert historians, archaeologists, naturalists and educators to unlock the stories and lessons of leadership that are demonstrated throughout the region. The cost is $800 per person. Interested participants can register at hallowedground.org/Education/ Extreme-Journey-Camps.

May 5 – 11, 2016

[ SCHOOL NOTES ]

[ PUBLIC SAFETY ]

loudounnow.com

Opioid Abuse Targeted During Drug Collection Initiative BY NORMAN K. STYER Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman gathered with federal and state drug enforcement leaders in Leesburg on Saturday to raise awareness of the opioid abuse epidemic locally and across the county. The press conference, featuring DEA Acting Administrator Chuck Rosenberg, coincided with National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, when residents were encouraged to drop off unused and expired medications at police offices. During the weekend, more than

Loudoun Sheriff Mike Chapman

1,300 pounds of prescription medication was collected by the Sheriff ’s Office, and police departments in Mid-

Acting DEA Administrator Chuck Rosenberg

dleburg and Purcellville. The event took place at the DEA Museum exhibit that depicts the impacts

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of drug abuse. Also speaking were U.S. Attorney Dana Boente; Virginia Deputy Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Victoria Cochran; and Nick Yacoub, of the Substance Abuse Addiction and Recovery Alliance. Rosenberg said the United States currently consumes 99 percent of the world’s hydrocodone and about 80 percent of the world’s oxycodone. “We will lose 47,000 people this year to a drug overdose. That is a stunning number.” Chapman said home medicine cabinets are a primary source of opiates for area teens, but others are looking there as well. He cited a case of a pet sitter who took medications from a client’s home and drugs being stolen by visitors during real estate open houses. Chapman also attributed many thefts from homes and businesses to drug addicts seeking to pawn items for money to feed their habit. During the first four months of 2016, the Sheriff ’s Office has been called to 10 overdose cases, including one fatality. During all of 2015, deputies worked 11 overdoses, two of which were fatal. In Loudoun, four out of five heroin users became addicted to opiates by first using prescription drugs. They then turn to heroin, which is cheaper and easier to get. “It’s happening everywhere. It’s happening in all ages,” Chapman said. “It doesn’t matter what your income is, it doesn’t matter where you live in the county. This is affecting everybody. And awareness is the key. Making sure everybody knows its out there. And stay away from it because once you try it, you’re done. You’re going to be addicted to it.” “We know we cannot arrest our way out of this problem,” Cochran said. “We must fight back. We must fight back together.” At the state level, the Governor’s Task Force on Prescription Drug and Heroin Abuse has focused on building a better database to track opioid prescriptions and on legislation to allow law enforcement officers to carry and administer the overdose antidote naloxone, for which all Loudoun deputies are being trained. Yacoub, a recovering alcoholic and addict who works to help others, said it was important for families and the community to talk about struggles with drug addiction. “This disease dies when exposed to the light of day,” he said. nstyer@loudounnow.com

May 5 – 11, 2016

loudounnow.com

May 5 – 11, 2016

loudounnow.com

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Members of 100WomenStrong stand with House Joint Resolution 368 and its chief patron, Del. Kathleen Murphy (D-34).

Join top-level collegiate players from the Purcellville Cannons along with the Fielder’s Choice staff for these exciting camps. Campers will learn the baseball fundamentals used in the prestigious Valley League. Space is limited– Register today to learn from your hometown heroes! Session I Dates: July 11-13 Time: 9:30am-12:00pm Ages: 7-12 Cost: $79 Haske Field, Purcellville

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100WomenStrong Announces Pilot Community School Initiative at Sterling Elementary BY RENSS GREENE ] Karen Schaufeld had a big day Wednesday, and soon students at Sterling Elementary School might be having some big days, too. At the annual meeting of 100WomenStrong, the charitable giving organization Shaufeld founded, she announced the launch of the $50,000 Community School Initiative, a plan to bring together private companies, government, and nonprofits to bring poorer students some basic support their well-off peers have. “If we give these kids the same inputs that we give our other kids, their outcomes should not be any different,” Shaufeld said. “There shouldn’t be a gap in performance.” The pilot program proposes to bring everything from basic dental and hearing checks to extracurricular enrichment and sports in to the school. She sees that eliminating a common problem in poor working families—when kids get out of school and go home, there’s nobody there to supervise, and the parents are too busy with work and too tight on money to drive kids to sports practices, hearing checkups, and other things their peers in school take for granted. The idea, she said, is that if those services are offered at school after classes let out, the transportation will be solved, and the kids won’t spend hours after school unsupervised. She also hopes it will bring in more community and parental involvement. If it seems like a lofty vision, Schaufeld is the woman for it—at that same meeting, she was presented with a resolution passed this year in the General Assembly recognizing 100WomenStrong’s more than $1 million in fundraising since it started issuing grants in 2009. “I’ve known Karen for years and years and years, and I’ve thought that all of your work is really remarkable,” said Del. Kathleen Murphy (D-34), the bill’s chief patron. Loudoun Delegates John J. Bell (D-87), J. Randall Minchew (R-10) and Senators Barbara A. Favola (D-31) and Jennifer T. Wexton (D-33)

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Dels. Kathleen Murphy (D-34), Jennifer Boysko (D-86), and J. Randall Minchew (R10) present a resolution from the General Assembly recognizing 100WomenStrong’s more than $1 million in grants.

also signed on to the bill, and Minchew, Favola and Wexton joined Murphy to present the resolution to Schaufeld at the meeting. The organization announced $221,165 in grants to 14 organizations at the meeting, ranging from $33,750 to HealthWorks to help bring comprehensive dental health care to children and the elderly, to $2,000 to Loudoun Families for Children, which works with Child Protective Services to care for about 60 children affected by family issues. The organization has done lots of good in schools before. In 2013, 100WomenStrong launched the Loudoun County Public Schools Backpack Coalition, a $100,000 matching challenge grant that in 2016 sent food home on the weekends with 974 needy students. That program developed efficiencies to feed a family of four all weekend for $5. “This shows what can work when you have collective action,” Schaufeld said. She credited the good her organization has done to lots of small works by many people. “No great change came all at once,” she said. “If you think of all the great things in history, it was never one person in one giant moment.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

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Deadline Extended for Festival Entries

HELPING HANDS

Credit: Tree of Life Ministries

Shoppers browse through items of clothing and furniture at the annual Tree of Life Ministries giveaway on Saturday morning.

Tree of Life Ministries Puts in Full Day’s Work BY MARGARET MORTON

aul Smith, executive director of the Purcellville-based Tree of Life Ministries, was elated with the Community Serve Day held by the nonprofit on Saturday. “The essence of the day was community impact,” Smith said, adding the organization is working to expand its reach to Leesburg and Winchester. The three events held over the weekend in Purcellville and Winchester served some 500 people, aided by 241 volunteers, Smith said. The events included a clothing and furniture giveaway, a home renovation, and a homeless shelter landscaping project. The Purcellville Baptist Church offered its premises for the clothing and furniture giveaway, and Tree of Life volunteers served breakfast to those who attended. Smith said he was surprised and pleased by the volunteer turnout for the annual giveaway. “There were so

many new volunteers who were having meaningful conversations with attendees,” he said. Smith said the site of the house renovation project was “unbelievable” when he turned up there after helping with the giveaway event. “There were 89 volunteers there, giving up their day literally to turn the house upside down,” Smith said. Improvements were made to an access ramp, the kitchen, front and back porches, the roof, sitting room, bathroom, basement, along with painting inside and out and replacing the flooring. The house belongs to an 83-year-old woman who has lived there since she was a child. “We live in the wealthiest corner of the globe, and you have 89 volunteers working on a house that’s falling down around you,” Smith said. “We all need to open our eyes and look for those in need.” Tree of Life has seven housing units it rents to individuals who need homes.

Smith emphasized the nonprofit was not there to give handouts, as much as “help with a hand up, invite people to come along and join our life skills branch—to help them find work, balance a budget and encourage them to establish a productive lifestyle.” The third project was to landscape the Winchester Salvation Army Homeless Shelter. Volunteers from the Western Loudoun Volleyball Club helped with the work. Tree of Life members serve a free meal at the shelter each month. It also serves a weekly meal in Purcellville. Tree of Life Ministries began in 2010 as a collaborative effort of Christian churches reaching out to those in need across western Loudoun County. The nonprofit is supported by 16 churches and more than 400 volunteers. For more information, go to tolministries.org or email info@tolministries. org. mmorton@loudounnow.com

Lovettsville’s Historic Church Celebrates 283 Years BY MARGARET MORTON It is fitting that the next presentation in the Lovettsville Historical Society’s lecture season will be on the town’s oldest church—St. James United Church of Christ. The title of the May 15 lecture is: “St. James at 283 Years: Lovettsville’s Oldest Church.” It’s quite a claim for any American institution to trace its roots back nearly three centuries and the small church at 10 E. Broad Way has a storied history. The lecture will feature a number of voices. The Rev. Roland England, who is a former St. James pastor and church historian, will be the main presenter, but he will get help from former Mayor Elaine Walker and other past and present members of the church. England has noted that the history of the church and that of the town are “inseparable,” as the parish was always a center of life in the German Settlement, even before it was laid out as the

Town of Lovettsville

St. James United Church of Christ

Town of Lovettsville in 1820. Founded around 1733 by German settlers coming south from Pennsylvania in search of fertile farmland, St. James parishioners first met in each others’ homes. According to historical society Vice President Ed Spannaus, the German Reformed or Calvinists were the first to arrive, followed a few years later by the Lutherans. The first clergyman to visit was the Rev. Michael

Schlatter, who stayed briefly as a guest of Elder William Wenner. Today’s church is the fourth structure in the parish’s history. The first three buildings—two log structures, the third a brick church—were built on the site east of town where the old St. James Reformed Cemetery remains today. In 1901, the congregation erected a new building at its present location, named St. James—rather than by its previous name of the German Reformed Church. Later in the century, St. James merged with the Evangelical & Reformed Church and, then, with the United Church of Christ. The program is free, but donations are accepted to help defray expenses. Refreshments will be served in the parish hall following the lecture. For more information, contact Spannaus at 540-822-9194 or 703-7279758. mmorton@loudounnow.com

The Purcellville Arts Council has extended the deadline for Music and Arts Festival entries until 5 p.m. May 13. Arts Council Chairwoman Liz Jarvis said she is excited about the variety of artwork already submitted for the May 21 event—including watercolors, sketches, oil paintings, photographs and ceramics. She hopes to fill the Bush Tabernacle using additional panels that have been installed to hold the art. The arts council urges area artists to join the effort to showcase the area’s diverse cultural presence. The artwork, one original piece per artist, will be juried for acceptance to the exhibition. All work must be appropriate for display at a family festival. There is no fee to enter. For entry details, go to the events page in the Community section of the town website, purcellvilleva.com. For more information, email Jarvis at cvilleliz@yahoo.com.

Council Honors Athletes The Purcellville Town Council last week applauded student athletes from Loudoun Valley High School for their achievements. Recognized were: Loudoun Valley High School senior and state wrestling champion Cade Kiely; LVHS freshman and record-setting state 500 freestyle champion Sean Conway, and members of Valley’s national champions boys distance medley relay—Colton Bogucki, Nathaniel Thompson, Will Smagh and Drew Hunter. Additionally, the council announced Drew Hunter Day, and Look Up Day in honor of Blue Ridge Middle School 8th graders Ayesha Paracha and Katie Rahn. The high point of the evening was the announcement of Dave Becker Day, a crossing guard at Emerick Elementary and Blue Ridge middle schools. A beloved figure at both schools, Becker received standing applause, emotional tributes, flowers and presents in his honor.

Utility Crews Keep Busy The Purcellville Public Works Department has been busy. Fixing a water main break found inside the Nature Park well system complex on Hatcher Avenue proved to be no small feat. After extensive excavation, town crews discovered a leak on a flange attached to a 36-inch water main that serves as a chlorine contact line for the well complex. It was not an easy fix and the services of TOWN BRIEFS >> 22

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Cannons Seek Anthem Singer The Purcellville Cannons Valley League Baseball Club is gearing up to play its first season at Fireman’s Field in Purcellville and team leaders are looking for the voice that will begin each game night. To that end, the Cannons plan to hold a contest. The first home game will be on Friday, June 3, and the last will be Monday, July 25. The Star Spangled Banner contest will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Fireman’s Field. The contest is open to all amateur performers. Singers who are younger than 18 years old are required to provide a parental consent prior to the auditions. Groups and duets are not eligible. A panel of judges will select a win-

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<< FROM 20 and a local welding company was required to repair the flange. There was no loss of service during the work and Public Works Director Alex Vanegas and Water Treatment Plant Supervisor Brian Lutton received a vote of thanks from the Town Council on April 26. That same week, a town contractor began work on the J Street drainage improvements, installing a storm sewer between South 26th Street to Town Hall. The work is expected to take approximately two to three months, and J Street will be closed to through traffic. Detour signage will direct traffic.

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Mayfest is on the way Town leaders are gearing up for the annual Mayfest, a full day of family activities planned for May 28. There will be trolley rides, food and entertainment on the Town Green. The Fun Zone includes a moon bounce, dunk tank, rock climbing and pony rides. Contests include a cornhole tournament and a pie-eating contest. Also planned are live music performances and wine tastings. Check for updates at lovettsvillevamayfest.com.

Waterford

May 5 – 11, 2016

Foundation Elects 2016 Board

108 Carpenter Drive • Sterling, VA 20164 Phone: 703-478-0700 Fax: 703-478-0291

www.eit.com

ner and a runner-up to fill in if the winner is unable to perform at any of the home games. Pre-registration is encouraged at purcellvillecannons.com/auditions. Ticket information is found at purcellvillecannons.com. For more information, contact Tylee Ulmer at 571-271-2324 or cannonsauditions@gmail.com.

Stephanie Thompson has been elected to serve as the next president of the Waterford Foundation. She has been a board member since moving to the village in 2009 and has served as chair of the Education and Collections Committee

and as a member of the Development Committee. She succeeds Jim Gosses. Joe Goode leaves the treasurer’s position to step up to vice president. Bonnie Getty continues as secretary, while John Caron becomes treasurer. Gosses and board members Kathleen Elder and Karl Riedel were elected to join the officers as members of the Executive Committee. Meredith Imwalle, who has more than 10 years of experience in communications and public affairs, was elected to a first term on the foundation board of directors. Imwalle and her family moved to Waterford in 2015. She serves on the foundation’s Development Committee and also chairs the Waterford Citizens Association’s Preservation Committee. Ray Chaudet was also re-elected to the board of directors. Chaudet is a member of the Waterford Fair’s Business Management Committee and manages the music program for the festival.

Philomont Yard Sale to benefit UMC It’s time for Philomont-area residents to scour their attics and basements to see what items they might donate for the June 4 Roszell Chapel United Methodist Church sale. Proceeds from the event support parish mission activities, including assistance to individuals in some sort of need, as well as to national and world charities. Requested donations cover the range of yard sale offerings, including most household items—furniture, kitchen items, knickknacks, jewelry, bedclothes and all types of tools. TVs, computers, exercise equipment and clothing are not accepted. Pick-up can be arranged for sale items: call 540-338-5861.

May 5 – 11, 2016

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Sheila Johnson to Headline Chamber Event

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Managing Director Michael Stephens poses with his staff in the atrium of Lansdowne Resort.

A NEW LOOK FOR LANSDOWNE Resort Debuts New GM, Total ‘Refresh’ BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

ne wouldn’t need to look far within the walls of Lansdowne Resort to see that in addition to new staff faces, the entire center is in the midst of a total makeover. Along with ushering in its 25th anniversary this year, there will be much to celebrate in 2016 for the resort. Earlier this month, the resort announced the hire of Michael Stephens as its new managing director. He joined the staff in February. Armed with a broad hospitality background—that most recently saw him managing the Grand Hyatt Sao Paolo in Brazil with prior stops in Hawaii, Scottsdale, AZ, and Dallas-Fort Worth, TX—Stephens comes to the resort at the height of an ambitious makeover that will see many of its offerings completely re-tooled and re-branded. The resort started off the New Year with the announcement of a multi-million-dollar renovation of the 476-acre property and its amenities. The renovations began with the makeover of the property’s 266 guestrooms and suites, which Stephens said recently concluded. “Those are really a great reflection of our destination—they have great links to wine country, a really beautiful, refined country look to them. The suites in particular just jump off the page. They look like they came from Architectural Digest,” Stephens said of the completed project. With the guest rooms and suites completed, work has begun in earnest on the food and beverage side of the resort’s operations. The four restaurants—Stonewalls Tavern, Riverside Hearth, Piedmont Table and Pub 46—are all being re-branded, he said.

This can include re-naming the restaurants and completely re-designing the menus. Stephens said of particular importance is making sure the menu concepts and food offerings “celebrate” Loudoun. “Our team of chefs, culinarians, food and beverage operators are really scouring communities and forging partnerships with local area farmers, ranchers, dairies and the like to really have a great rep of this community,” he said. “We want our traveling guests to come in to Leesburg and from a food and beverage experience if you were going to have a farmer’s market experience, a taste of Loudoun County. We really want guests to have that kind of experience here.” Stephens said many travelers are looking to “connect with the destination” they’re visiting, and that’s what he hopes the resort’s makeover will bring to those visiting Loudoun County. Considered a serious contender in the group meetings market, Stephens said he hopes the renovations will reposition Lansdowne Resort “to really be that destination resort that everyone is really looking for.” Integral to that will be making sure the final product is a “true representation” of Leesburg and Loudoun County, taking into account the “rich history” of the area. To that end, Stephens said resort staff has been working with historians to better understand past events that took place on resort property. While he stayed mum on what has been learned so far, he said what will be revealed in terms of the property’s history is something that has never been celebrated but is “very significant” to Loudoun’s history. Other resort enhancements will be

Michael Stevens

better use of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, with resort guests and visitors able to rent mountain bikes and offering an overall better connection to the trail. A refresh of the resort’s spa has also occurred over the last few months. Stephens said all food and beverage changes should be completed by year’s end. While other competitors have sprung up since Lansdowne Resort first opened 25 years ago—the most recent being Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg—Stephens emphasized that each resort has its own very specific destination to celebrate. With the resort bordering the Potomac River, the expansive golf course area and its location in Leesburg, there is much to accentuate. “No one will ever have what we have here,” Stephens said. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

T h e Loudoun C o u n t y Chamber of Commerce hosts “Lessons in Leadership” on Thursday, May 19, with S a l a m a n d e r Johnson Resort & Spa founder and CEO Sheila Johnson. Johnson is the co-founder of BET, the founder of the Middleburg Film Festival and has ownership interests in three professional sports teams: the Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals, and Washington Mystics. Once asked to describe her business approach, Johnson replied that her business model does not follow any model. The event will allow local business leaders to learn more from the entrepreneur and philanthropist. Registration and networking is 11:30 a.m.-noon and the program is noon-2 p.m. Thursday, May 19, at the Salamander Resort & Spa, 500 N. Pendleton St. in Middleburg. Register at business. loudounchamber.org.

Health Care Job Fair Planned Job seekers looking to join the fast-growing health care field are encouraged to attend the Loudoun Workforce Resource Center’s Health Care Career Fair on Tuesday, May 10. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Shenandoah Building, 102 Heritage Way NE in Leesburg. Featured employers include: Capital Caring, the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System, the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services, The Medical Team, Old Dominion Health Care, Options for Senior America, Rite Aid Pharmacies, and Inova Health System. The employers are recruiting for nurses, personal care aids, pharmacy technicians, billing specialists, medical technicians, and emergency medical technician volunteers, among other positions. Prior to attending the career fair, job seekers are encouraged to stop by the Workforce Resource Center for a résumé critique session and a career fair tips handout. Community members are also invited to attend many of the center’s free workshops on résumé writing, interview skills, Microsoft Word and Excel basics, and job searching with social media. Register for the workshops at loudoun.gov/wrcworkshops. The Workforce Resource Center is at 102 Heritage Way NE in Leesburg.

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team-based care with an emNova Medical & Urgent Care Center has announced phasis on wellness and populaplans to join the Inova Medtion health management. Nova Medical and Urgent ical Group, a division of the Care Center’s offices in AshInova Health System offering primary care and adult burn, Sterling, Leesburg, and specialty services across the Gainesville are open daily, ofWashington, DC, region. fering primary care, walk-in Dr. Grace Keenan, who urgent care, and specialty intefounded Nova Medical & grative services for patients of Courtesy of Nova Medical Urgent Care Center in 1988 Dr. Grace Keenan all ages. and serves as its CEO, said founded Nova Nova will transition to the the partnership will en- Medical & Urgent Epic electronic medical record hance the experience pa- Care Center in 1988. (EMR) system and MyChart Patient Portal, which is used by tients have come to expect. The center recently the Inova Health System. Nova They will have access to a joined the Inova Medical & Urgent Care Center nationally recognized, com- Medical Group. will also expand its network of prehensive network of hospitals, outpatient services and facilities, participating insurance carriers. As of primary and specialty care practices, this week, Nova will participate with Inand health and wellness initiatives. Total Health. Virginia Medicaid will be Keenan and her team will join more accepted for urgent care and dermatolthan 400 experienced physicians spe- ogy visits. “Nova is committed to caring for the cializing in primary care and adult speentire patient,” Keenan stated. “Many cialty care services. “The community will continue to see patients have benefited from our inteour team’s familiar, smiling faces and I grative modalities after failing to regain will remain committed to ensuring that their health from mainstream medicine. each patient receives quality care,” she Our holistic approach supports Inova’s stated in a press release announcing three-pronged vision for 2020. I am exthe partnership. “Nova’s integrative and cited to help the community receive an specialty services—including those of- enhanced level of care in the outpatient fered at The Medical Spa at Nova—will care setting as the Inova Health Syscontinue to be an integral part of our tem focuses their efforts on population practice.” health management, wellness and preWith more than 80 practice locations vention, and an integrated care delivery throughout Virginia and Maryland, system.” the Inova Medical Group is one of the Learn more about Nova Medical & region’s largest healthcare organiza- Urgent Care Center at novamedgroup. tions. The physician-led group provides com.

May 5 – 11, 2016

Nova Medical & Urgent Care Center Joins Inova Medical Group

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Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Black Hoof Brewing Company will soon move into space Caulkins Jewelers has called home for 62 years.

JEWELS OUT, BEER IN

Brewery Moving in to Former Caulkins’ Space BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ By this fall, an historic downtown building will be the site of a new craft brewery. Black Hoof Brewing announced last week that it will open its first taproom at 11 S. King St. If that address sounds familiar, it’s because for 62 years it housed Caulkins Jewelers, a downtown fixture owned and operated by brothers Stanley and Roger Caulkins. The jewelry shop had no plans on moving out of the downtown area until a fire last June at a second-floor residence above Caulkins Jewelers and the next-door Leesburg Diner forced

the building’s closure for repairs. The Caulkins brothers recently decided to make the shop’s temporary location at the Virginia Village shopping center a permanent one. The store’s new location is becoming better known, according to Stanley Caulkins, who says customers tell him how much they like the abundant parking and easy access. For Bill Haase, Black Hoof ’s company president and head brewer, the King Street location stood out to him among all the other locations he scouted. “It just kind of popped,” he said. “It’s the perfect size for what we want to do.” And what Haase is looking to bring to Leesburg and the greater beer-lov-

Help your neighbors, friends, and family… Run or Walk in the

6 Annual th

LOUDOUN LYME RACE

5K/10K/1K Fun Run

ing community is similar to what one would find in Europe—a biergarten atmosphere where patrons are welcome to bring in their own food and wash it down with one of Haase’s German or English-inspired brews. After spending 12 years in the Marine Corps, Haase earned a degree in environmental engineering, which turned out to be the basis for a newfound hobby over the past decade—homebrewing. Near his former home in Florida, Haase was able to use a nearby “brew-onpremise” business, where he could experiment with creating different beers. But when he moved to Leesburg in 2006 he found that the two closest brew-onpremise businesses—in Frederick, MD, and the Shenandoah area—were not very convenient for him. So after reading books and doing his research, he began homebrewing. “Being an engineer, I really enjoyed the science of brewing,” he said. “I start out with reverse osmosis and build water profiles to build specific kinds of beers. By building your own water you can create profiles for different types of beers that you cannot do if you use regular tap water or just dilute.” Haase’s experiments soon gained a following from neighbors and friends. “It came to the point where all my friends would say ‘Your beers are great; you should enter competitions.’ But instead of entering local competitions I went straight to the top,” he recalled. By straight to the top Haase means the National Homebrewers Association’s annual competition, the largest competition in the world for homebrewers. At the 2014 contest, two of his beers, a German Marzen and a German Helles, advanced to the finals, with the Marzen

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Sunday, May 15th • 8am-11am Race Fee: $30 Individual/$35 event day

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The Loudoun Lyme race event is fighting the bite! The race also features an informational fair with Lyme experts and vendors. Proceeds benefit National Capital Lyme Disease Association. Register at www.LoudounLyme.org.

BLACK HOOF >> 27

A SALUTE TO OUR TROOPS THE

ONE Racing Event

Presented at

Brambleton Town Center

winning a medal. The victory sealed his fate, as he knew at that point a storefront was in his future. Two years later Haase finds himself about six months out—an October opening is eyed for the taproom—from realizing that dream. Initial plans are to produce seven different styles of beer on premises: a Porter, an IPA, a Helles, a Hefeweizen, a Marzen, a Nut Brown Ale as well as a seasonal beer. Although outside food will be permitted, light fare will be offered. Haase said he plans to have Bavarian-style pretzels, chips, popcorn and possibly a German obatzda, which is a type of cheese spread, for purchase. The brewery also plans to offer live music and outdoor seating. Haase’s landlord Mike O’Connor, who also owns and operates the Leesburg Diner and Palio Ristorante Italiano and counts many downtown buildings as his own, said he is thrilled about the opening of Black Hoof. Both he and Haase believe the brewery can further add to downtown Leesburg’s vibrancy and varied offerings. “It fits the new effort in Leesburg to bring down new people and add some more spice to what is already becoming a very vibrant downtown,” O’Connor said. For O’Connor, as for Caulkins, recovery from the fire has been exhausting. But O’Connor was happy to report that the “long and arduous process” of dealing with the insurance company to recover damages from the fire has finally ended, so the rebuilding process can begin in earnest. “We’re still deciding what the use will

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5K & 10K Race, 1K Fun Run/Walk MEMORIAL DAY, MAY 30, 2016 ONE LOUDOUN, ASHBURN, VA Nearly $5,000 in Prizes & Giveaways 5K Race..................8:00 am

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<< FROM 24

Recruiting Firm Opens Downtown Office

Black Hoof << FROM 26 be on the second floor,” O’Connor said. But as it stands right now we’re having the roofs replaced and we will just be in a rebuild mode and look to get ourselves back in good shape probably within the month.” O’Connor originally bought the South King Street building from Stan-

ley Caulkins. Although he said he is sad to have Caulkins leave the downtown area, he believes everything has worked out for the best—the jewelry shop has a comfortable new home in Virginia Village, and Black Hoof promises to create its own following in its King Street fold. “Everything has a plan to it,” he surmised, “and I think if you work hard everything turns out right.” krodriguez@loudounnow.com

BIZ BRIEFS >> 27

Recruiting firm TechTalentSearch LLC has opened a new office on the second floor of the Trinity House Café, 101 E. Market St. in downtown Leesburg. TechTalentSearch is a boutique search firm specializing in senior and executive-level talent search and recruitment. The firm offers traditional retained search and single or project-based recruitment, as well as executive coaching services. With more than a decade of experience and a national presence, TechTalentSearch helps small to medium-sized businesses in the health care, information technology, engineering and management consulting sectors address their critical talent management needs.

The firm specializes in identifying talent in difficult-to-fill positions in emerging technology such as the Internet of Things and big data. “We’re very excited to be in Loudoun County,” Michael Haynes, TechTalentSearch’s vice president of Business Development and Strategy, stated. “This move is evidence of our growth and continued expansion into key national markets.” Over the next year, the firm is looking to partner with real estate agents who specialize in relocation services, as well as wealth management advisers. “By providing these additional services, along with our cadre of seasoned executive coaches to help facilitate assimilation, we believe this will help us achieve that objective,” Haynes stated. Learn more at techtalentsearch. com or by calling 571-207-5154.

May 5 – 11, 2016

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JUDY BLUE EYES Folk Legend Judy Collins Headed to Tally Ho BY JAN MERCKER Old school folk fans (you know who you are) hold on to your hats—Judy Blue Eyes is coming to Leesburg. Folk icon Judy Collins is slated to play the Tally Ho Theatre on May 13. Collins, who turned 77 this week, continues to tour internationally, mixing new material with old favorites. “I like to do a mix of the old and new, the classic Judy Collins and some of the newer things. I will be doing a couple of new songs from my new CD ‘Strangers Again,’ as well as some of the new Sondheim songs from my upcoming PBS special plus of course ‘Both Sides Now’ and ‘Amazing Grace.’ It always is great to hear the new as well as the classic,” Collins, who this week was battling laryngitis, said in an email to Loudoun Now. Collins is beloved to fans across generations for her version of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” which earned her a Grammy award in 1969. “Both Sides Now,” recorded on her breakthrough album, “Wildflowers,” was followed by several more Grammy-nominated hits, including her 1975 version of Stephen Sondheim’s “Send in The Clowns.” Collins also is famous as the subject of the Crosby, Stills and Nash classic “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” written by Stephen Stills, with whom she was romantically involved with at the time. The singer, who got her start on the folk scene in the clubs of New York’s Greenwich Village, said she’s as comfortable in a smaller theater like the Tally Ho as she is on a larger stage. “I sing all over the world, in many different kinds of venues, from the

Judy Collins plays the Tally Ho Theatre in Leesburg Friday, May 13, at 8:30 p.m. Tickets for the fully seated show are $59 in advance, $70 day of show. Limited VIP tickets are available for $125. For tickets and information, go to tallyholeesburg.com.

Carlyle to Carnegie Hall, from big outdoor festivals, like Newport to the Metropolitan Museum in New York and I am comfortable in all of them,” Collins said. Last fall, Collins released her latest studio album, “Strangers Again” a record of duets with musical icons including Willie Nelson and Jackson Browne along with newer voices like singer-songwriter Ari Hest, who wrote the album’s title song. Collins’ Sondheim show on PBS is expected to air this year. She’s also working on a new CD with Hest. “Silver Skies Blue,” slated for release in June, is a mix of original songs co-written by Collins and the 36-year-old Hest. For Collins, the fresh collaborations and an active concert schedule are ways to keep growing as a musician. “Everyone wants to do what they love, even if it means getting on and off planes a few times a week,” she said. “I love my work and am working on covering a lot of ground because there are many things I want to do.”

CELEBRATE MOM PAINT A LATTE WORKSHOP Saturday, May 7, 2-4 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org Moms and children ages 10 and up can try a new painting technique while enjoying the vistas of Franklin Park and sipping coffee or cocoa. Cost is $15 per person.

Sunday, May 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com Smokehouse Live celebrates mom with an expanded brunch buffet including prime rib, smoked salmon, and Yorkshire pudding. Kenny Ray Horton provides music from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost is $29.95 per person, $12.95 for children 5-13 and free for age 4 and younger.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT LANSDOWNE Sunday, May 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Lansdowne Resort and Spa, 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne. Details:

LAST HAM STANDING

Treat mom to a full brunch buffet with classic breakfast options, a seafood counter, carving station, charcuterie and cheese display and children’s buffet. Cost is $80 per person, $25 for children and free for those age 3 and younger.

Friday, May 6, 8 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org

MOMMY AND ME PAINTING Sunday, May 8, 1-2 p.m.; Lansdowne Resort and Spa, 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne. Details: lansdowneresort.com Join artist Jill Perla for a collaborative painting project for moms and children age 5 and up. Cost is $40 for mom and up to two children.

ON STAGE ‘THE WIZ’ Thursday, May 5, through Saturday, May 7, 7 p.m., Sunday, May 8, 2:30 p.m.; Tuscarora High School, 801 N. King St., Leesburg. Details: sitstaywatch.org The rock/gospel/soul retelling of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz” was a hit in the ’70s and continues to energize audiences. Tickets are $10 and are available online or at the door.

A group of talented performers take suggestions from the audience to create wacky scenes and funny improv games. It’s comedy fun for the whole family. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for children.

LOUDOUN BALLET COMPANY’S ‘SLEEPING BEAUTY’ Saturday, May 7, 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 8, 4 p.m.; Dominion High School, 21326 Augusta Drive, Sterling. Details: loudounballet.org The new full-length production presents the classic fairy tale told through dance. Tickets are $25 for premium seating, $20 for reserved seating, and $15 for children and seniors.

MSVA: THE FOUR SEASONS Saturday, May 7, 7 p.m.; Our Savior’s Way, 43115 Waxpool Road, Ashburn; Sunday, May 8, 7 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: msva.org The Master Singers of Virginia will collaborate with the Briar Woods High

Courtesy of the Master Singers of Virginia

School Artist Orchestra in a program that celebrates the glory of each season. Highlights include Sting’s arrangement of “Fields of Gold,” Mozart’s “Ave Verum Corpus” and “Swing Songs” by Tormis, with orchestral selections from Vivaldi’s “ Four Seasons.”

LUCKETTS BLUEGRASS: GOLDWING EXPRESS Saturday, May 7, 7 p.m.; Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Road, Leesburg. Details: luckettsbluegrass.org Goldwing Express is a family band made up of Bob Baldridge and his sons Paul, Steven and Shawn. They perform a wide variety of material ranging from bluegrass to country favorites and classic southern gospel. A segment of the performance is dedicated to the family’s Native American heritage. Tickets are $15 at the door.

MORE TO DO >> 31

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Loudoun Lyme Run

The Loudoun Lyme Run is in its sixth year and is meant to raise awareness about the tick-borne illness.

Lyme Run Looks to Raise Record Funds to Combat the Disease BY DANIELLE NADLER More than 1,200 people are expected to converge on Brambleton Town Center on Sunday, May 15, for what’s become the largest event to combat Lyme disease in the country. “It’s one of the most mission-driven events,” said Steve Gotschi, founder of the Loudoun Lyme Run and owner of Sterling-based DryHome Roofing and Siding. “Seventy-five to 80 percent of the participants have been affected by Lyme disease in one way or another.” Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that is quickly becoming one of the nation’s most misdiagnosed and fastest-growing infectious diseases. The Loudoun Lyme Run, now in its sixth year, raises money for the National Capital Lyme Disease Association, which works to heighten awareness of the disease and put money toward research to prevent and treat it. The event includes a 10K, 5K and 1K family walk/fun run, and new this year—a virtual race, in which participants who cannot make it on race day can log their scores and still make donations. Last year, the race raised a net of $50,000. This year, Gotschi’s goal is to write the National Capital Lyme Disease Association a $75,000 check. Gotschi started the Lyme run in 2010 after watching his wife battle the illness for years before she was properly diagnosed. “She went to 10 doctors and no one could figure out what was wrong with her,” he said. “I thought, there’s got to be more awareness of this. She shouldn’t be telling the doctors she has Lyme.” Infected people often test negative for Lyme disease. If left untreated, infection can cause severe neurological, cardiac and arthritic problems. Initial signs of Lyme disease may include a bull’s eye rash on a tick bite site, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. Loudoun County is home to the largest number of Lyme’s cases in the

nation, with between 150 and 200 reported each year. The Loudoun Board of Supervisors, along with other political leaders and public health officials, have been working to raise awareness of the issue in recent years. As part of that effort, the board formed the Lyme Disease Commission five years ago. They’ve also declared May Lyme Disease Awareness Month. Gotschi said he has seen progress as more people learn about the importance of protecting themselves from tick bites and being earnest about getting treatment if they have symptoms of Lyme. Just last week, the Virginia Board of Medicine sent out a newsletter to doctors throughout the commonwealth reminding them of the 2013 law that requires them to give any patient who is tested for Lyme a disclosure sheet stating that the tests do not always detect the disease. That’s a big step, according to Monte Skall, executive director of the National Capital Lyme Disease Association. “I sat on the governor’s task force and heard over and over again the same story. The test came back negative for Lyme, and six months later that very same person can’t get out of bed.” Doctors who don’t hand out disclosure literature can face a fine. Monte said, “We’re not after fining physicians, but what we want is to get information to patients about testing. Early detection and treatment is vital.” The Loudoun Lyme Run will take place at the Brambleton Town Center, at 22855 Brambleton Plaza in Ashburn. Registration for participants 14 years and older is $30 before May 11 and $35 on race day; the fee for children 13 years and younger is $25 before May 11 and $30 on race day. The 10K begins at 8 a.m., 5K begins at 8:10 a.m. and 1K begins at 9:30 a.m. Register and see more information at loudounlyme.org. dnadler@loudounnow.com

Leesburg native and historian James Roberts leads a walking tour of Leesburg. The tour is an insider’s commentary of local people, places, and points of interest in and around Leesburg, with a focus on how the town has grown and evolved through the years architecturally, economically, and racially. Meet at the library and wear comfortable shoes.

<< FROM 29

BOOK TALK: TODD KASHDAN Courtesy of One Man Star Wars

Thursday, May 12, and Friday, May 13, 8 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org You’ll feel like the chosen one when you witness Charles Ross impersonate all your favorite characters, re-create the effects, insert factoids, sing from the John Williams score, and fight both sides of the battles in this 75-minute adaptation of Episodes IV, V and VI. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $35 per person.

LOCO CULTURE LEESBURG WALKING TOUR Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m.-noon; Thomas Balch Library, 208 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: 703-737-7195

As part of Loudoun County Public Library’s recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Kashdan, a professor of psychology and senior scientist at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being at George Mason University, discusses his book “The Upside of Your Dark Side: Why Being Your Whole Self - Not Just Your ‘Good’ Self - Drives Success and Fulfillment.” Event is free and open to the public.

ONE LOUDOUN DOWNTOWN FEST Saturday, May 7, 2-7 p.m.; One Loudoun Downtown Plaza, 20626 Easthampton Plaza, Ashburn. Details: oneloudoun.com The annual event features music from Gonzo’s Nose, Levis Stephens Band and other local favorites, food and drink vendors, and children’s activities. Event is free.

MURDER MYSTERY COMEDY: SUPERHERO HOMICIDE

Saturday, May 7, 8 a.m. The Loudoun Roadrunners are hosting a Wine Country Half Marathon training run. The run will start and end at Doukenie Winery - 14727 Mountain Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132. Please arrive at 7:30 a.m. to register. Distances are 6 up to 12 miles, and follow portions of the Destination Races Wine Country Half course. Water stops will be provided. Drawing for a free registration to the WCHM!

Friday, May 6, 8:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com

NIGHTLIFE LIVE MUSIC: MATT WOODS Friday, May 6, 7 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com Matt Woods is an Americana songwriter from Knoxville, TN, with roots in classic country and straight up rock ’n’ roll. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

LIVE MUSIC: MOTOWN AND MORE Friday, May 6, 8-11:30 p.m.; The Studio, 45449 Severn Way, Dulles. Details: thestudiova.com Webb and Fox present an evening of great Motown songs from the ‘60s— all your favorites from the Jacksons to Teddy Pendergrass to Patti Labelle. Tickets are $20.

Die Laughing Productions enters the world of superheroes and super villains as this interactive murder mystery transports you to the superhero hall of fame. Tickets for this fully seated show are $22 in advance, $27 day of show.

LIVE MUSIC: NATHANIEL DAVIS Saturday, May 7, 2-5 p.m.; North Gate Vineyard, 16031 Hillsboro Road, Purcellville. Details: northgatevineyard.com This singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist blends indie-rock and alt-country sounds. Davis’ emotive voice, heartfelt original material and unique interpretations of well-known classics make this musical experience a must-see.

FRIENDS OF LOUDOUN MENTAL HEALTH BENEFIT: PAUL PFAU Saturday, May 7, 4-8 p.m.; 219 Prince Street, Leesburg. Contact: pnalpc@gmail.com The concert to benefit Friends of Loudoun Mental Health features singer/songwriter Paul Pfau (who appeared

MORE TO DO >> 32

Get Your Ice Skates On This Spring Register Now For Our

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SPRING BREAK CAMPS SUMMER FUN CAMPS SUMMER POWER PLAY HOCKEY CAMPS

The Ashburn Ice House is Located at 21595 Smith Switch Rd., Ashburn, VA 20147

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ONE MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY

Saturday, May 7, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Details: library.loudoun.gov

WINE COUNTRY HALF MARATHON TRAINING RUN

May 5 – 11, 2016

[ THIS WEEK ]

loudounnow.com

[ OBITUARY ]

In memory of Nancy McConnell Dean This spring is so sad without you... may you be surrounded by God’s love, the “golden Robins” and all the spring flowers you loved.

Spring Farm Tour Set for May 21-22 The Loudoun Economic Development Department’s annual spring showcase of rural enterprises will take place at 50 farms. The self-guided tour will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 21, and Sunday, May 22. For adults and young visitors alike, they provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a variety of animals and crops, according to Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer. This year’s tour offers a mix of traditional crop and livestock farms, horse and specialty farms, breweries and wineries and even a meadery. Kids can have fun smoothing the feathers of baby chicks, riding ponies,

feeding alpacas, petting rabbits and enjoy picking and tasting the best of the spring strawberry crop. There will be eight new sites on the tour this year: Black Hops Farm, Otium Cellars, Blue Ridge Center’s Mountain View Farm, CEA Farms, Cerritos Farm, Edgegrove Farm, Legacy Farms and Wegmeyers at Gilberts Corner (an addition to Wegmeyers’s pick your own farm near Lincoln.) Brochures listing all 50 sites are available at all county libraries and community centers. They also are available online at loudounfarms.org/FarmTour. The Spring Farm Tour is part of Loudoun Small Business Week. For more details, go to loudounsbw.com.

[ THIS WEEK ] << FROM 31 on NBC’s “The Voice”) and local favorite Gary Smallwood. Requested donation is $50. Bring your own chair.

favorites of that fabulous decade. Tickets are $5 in advance, $10 day of show.

COMING UP LOUDOUN LYME 5K/10K/1K Sunday, May 15, 8 a.m. start, Brambleton Town Center, 22855 Brambleton Plaza, Ashburn. Details: loudounlyme.org

Courtesy of Jack Grace Band

LIVE MUSIC: JACK GRACE BAND Saturday, May 7, 7 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com Grace’s experimental country art rock has been compared to everything from Frank Zappa to early Johnny Cash. No cover.

90S PROM NIGHT WITH AS IF Saturday, May 7, 7:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com Get your nostalgic groove on as the ultimate ’90s cover band performs all the rock, hip hop, pop and dance

The sixth annual event benefits the National Capital Lyme Association and features 10K and 5K races and a 1K fun run. Online registration is $30 ($25 for children 13 and younger) through May 11. Race day registration is $35 ($30 for children).

‘MY FAIR LADY’ Friday, May 13, Saturday, May 14, Friday, May 20, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 21, at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Harmony Middle School, 38174 W. Colonial Highway, Hamilton. Details: thepickwickplayers.com The Pickwick Players present the classic musical about the snobbish Professor Henry Higgins and Eliza Doolittle, the Cockney flower girl he takes on as a project.

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Notice

NOTICE

Abandoned trailer at 42304 James Monroe Highway Trailer Park, Leesburg, 20176. Contact: (703) 777-2446 ONE WEEK to contact before it will be sold or auctioned

Yard Sale HUGE YARD SALE

May 13 &14 9am-2pm Household and Garage Items 21412 Evergreen Mill Rd Leesburg, VA No early birds

TENT SALE FRIDAY & SATURDAY May 6 & 7 - 10 am to 4 pm • Furniture • Garden • Home Decor • Good Stuff • Great Prices! On the lawn @ Purcellville Marketplace, Main Street Purcellville,VA

ESTATE SALE May 14, 2016 8am until 1pm 205 Prospect Drive, SW Leesburg, VA *CASH ONLY*

Email: classifieds@loudounnow.com or Call: (703) 770-9723 to place your yard sale ad

Is Expanding

Our sixth location located in the Medical Professional Building at Stone Springs Hospital in Aldie, VA is scheduled to open this Summer. If you are compassionate, energetic and love working with a team, then we need YOU. FT positions are available for LPN’s and MA’s. Pediatric and or family practice preferred but willing to train the right candidate. We offer health, dental and vision insurance as well as direct deposit, 401K and many other benefits. FT positions are also available in our Broadlands location. Please send your resumé to: lgray@lmgdoctors.com or fax: (703) 726-0804 attention Lisa

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HIRING HAIRSTYLIST Leesburg Salon Great location 10x12 private room bring your business keep your business reasonable rent, utilities included fully furnished no drama professional laid back License required Contact: 571-271-4009

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B&D Excavating & Paving is Hiring CREW FOREMAN

Rapidly growing NOVA excavation company has an immediate opening for a crew foreman. Valid driver’s license & good driving record required. The ability to read blue prints and shoot grade is a plus. Full time, year round work, competitive salary and benefits offered. Send resume or qualifications via email to: earthmovers93@yahoo.com or call 540-868-2797

CDL DUMP TRUCK DRIVER

Rapidly growing NOVA excavation company has an immediate opening for a class A or B CDL dump truck driver. Must be able to navigate efficiently in NO VA, DC, MD as well as other areas. All employees report to our Gainesville, VA location daily . Full time, year round work, competitive salary and benefits offered. Send resume or qualifications via email to: earthmovers93@yahoo.com or call 540-868-2797

Electro/Mechanical Repair Technician and Assembler Zodiac Executive Aircraft Inserts (ZXAI) is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacturer of galley inserts for the private and business aircraft industry located in Sterling, VA. We are seeking experienced electro/mechanical Assemblers and Repair Technicians to join our production team.

Positions require the ability to read and interpret drawings per ANSI Y14.5, electrical schematics and diagrams; the ability to crimp, solder and use various hand tools; as well as, the ability to discriminate color per the Ishihara color blindness test. Qualified candidates should have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivm 7:30 pm alent and two years hands on experience. Supplemental education in a technical setting desired. Candidates should also possess high 5414 attention to detail and organization, responsiveness and the ability e Drive! to work independently and as a member of a team. This fast paced environment requires a dedication to quality work.

e & Experience acost with the ointing of the Holy Spirit”

Salary: Commensurate with experience. Our competitive benefits package includes health, dental and vision insurance, 401K, life insurance, long and short term disability and paid holidays, sick and vacation leaves. Interested candidates should send resumes to Zodiac Executive Aircraft Inserts at 44931 Falcon Place Sterling, VA 20166 Attn: Human Resources or e-mail Margey.OBrien@zodiacaerospace.com. Zodiac Executive Aircraft Inserts is an ITAR compliant facility. All candidates must be US citizens or permanent residents of the US.

OPERATORS

Rapidly growing NOVA excavation company has an immediate opening for heavy equipment operators. Valid driver’s license, good driving record & transportation. The ability to operate a track-hoe and mini excavator and skid-steer a plus. The ability to read blue prints and shoot grade is a plus. All employees report to our Gainesville, VA location daily. We offer full time year round work, competitive salary and benefits. Send resume and or qualifications via email to: earthmovers93@ yahoo.com or call 540-868-2797

! u o LOUDOUNNOW y s t wan Do you have a knack for sales and a passion for the Loudoun community? Let’s talk. Contact: sales@loudounnow.com Do you have a knack for writing and a passion for the Loudoun community? Let’s talk. Contact: editor@loudounnow.com

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Zodiac Executive Aircraft Inserts is a drug and alcohol free; equal opportunity employer.

SKILLED LABORS

Rapidly growing NOVA excavation company has an immediate opening for skilled laborers. Valid driver’s license, good driving record & transportation. The ability to read blue prints and shoot grade is a plus. All employees report to our Gainesville, VA location daily. We offer full time year round work, competitive salary and benefits. Send resume and or qualifications via email to: earthmovers93@ yahoo.com or call 540-868-2797

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[ OPINION ]

Emerging Trends It’s too early to know the full impact of the previous Board of Supervisors’ decision to impose charges on ambulance transports, but some significant trends are emerging. First is that the fees charged to insurance providers primarily offset real estate tax increases. With most of the collected

money going to pay for the cost of the billing program, countyowned public safety stations and county-purchased response vehicles, supervisors—at least technically—can take a halfpenny or so off the tax rate. The second trend is that not a lot of money is trickling down to the volunteer companies. That’s simply a function of the allocation formula, which seeks to reimburse the parties providing the resources on each call. As the county government takes on more responsibility to provide career staffing, replace aging fire and rescue stations and picks up more of the costs upgrading response apparatus, it gets a larger allocation of the ambulance fees. Countywide, volunteers are running a lower percentage of calls and are increasingly using county resources in their response. It is a trend that will continue. The third take away is that more than ambulance fees will be required to keep volunteer operations up and running. Why should you bother to join the rescue squad or donate money if you’re paying for the service? Because your taxes, and the cost of transports, will go up as the support for volunteers wanes. It has been an expensive culture shift as fewer residents were available to man the stations and paid staffers shifted from providing fill-in support to handling a majority of the calls.

[ LETTERS ] Join Us Editor: I just read your piece on teen suicides in Loudoun. In fact, suicides are on the increase all over the country. We have had our share in Prince William County Schools—one in February and one in April. The students at Forest Park High School last year had a Suicide Awareness Walk. It was a 6-mile walk from their school to Hylton High School. More than 800 people came. It was the first high school-led walk in the country.

On May 21, the second Annual Walk will take place at Forest Park. Senator McPike will be the keynote speaker and Congressman Connolly will say a few words as well. The students and people from all over will walk from Forest Park to Hylton and back. We would like to invite anyone to come and be present for this event, because together we can take the U out of suicide. Please join us. – Shannon M. Geraghty, Woodbridge

And the cost of equipment today has outpaced the fund-raising ability of most independent companies. Ambulance fees will be part of that fiscal puzzle going forward, but public support for the volunteer companies should be as well.

LoudounNow

Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC 15 N. King St., Suite 101 • Leesburg, VA, 20176 PO Box 207 • Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723 Norman K. Styer Editor nstyer@loudounnow.com

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Readers’ comments posted at loudounnow.com

“I personally have multitudes of good, sober, friends, whose lives have been saved a number of times by a good sumaritan with a shot of narcan. If not for this drug, which produces essentially the same effect as a defibrillator, these selfless people i know today would not be living the lives, and helping the addicts that they are living or helping. Certain folks are under the delusion that using heroin is a choice and that therefore the need for narcan is slim, but those folks are wrong. After the first time I picked it up, it was no longer a choice whether or not I would use. It took over everything I did.” — michael.munzell, on All Loudoun Patrol Deputies to be Issued Narcan “The real problem is that the public’s participation is extremely limited. The School Board rushes this process and usually ends up picking a plan at the very last minute that no-one had an opportunity to see except if you were involved in their closed door meetings. This is not good governance!” — Homer Simpson, on Loudoun Board Debates How to Relieve Overcrowded Middle Schools

[ OPINION ]

May 5 – 11, 2016

A VIEW FROM THE GAP

Whose View Is It Anyway? BY ROGER L. VANCE

WHOSE VIEW? >> 38

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While the policies put into place by Loudoun County may have been dutifully followed, all must admit and recognize that there was very little public awareness of this proposal prior to last week’s public hearing. In addition to engendering suspicions that may be unwarranted, this lack of public input forecloses the kind of thoughtful discourse that should serve as a guide to policymakers and our public officials. The applicant’s responses to questions about the height requirements for the facility were unconvincing. Former Planning Commission Chairman Al Van Huyck’s public statements were on point with regard to the inadequate study of the impacts on the environment, viewsheds and the rural/recreational economy, and a lack of any independent expert analysis altogether. Protecting our natural resources such as the Short Hill has implications far beyond the aesthetic and far beyond our present. This particular stretch of mountainside has been protected by decades of dedicated efforts for conservation alongside thoughtful rural and agricultural economic development. With the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship as an anchor, a proposed state park will further this area’s preservation and accessibility as a destination for nature and recreation lovers from Loudoun and beyond. Eugene Scheel, the Catoctin District representative on the Planning Com-

“IS THERE NOT ANY CONCERN ABOUT SHORT HILL, ONE OF THE GREAT NATURAL RESOURCES NOT ONLY OF LOUDOUN COUNTY BUT OF THE VIRGINIA PIEDMONT… A MOUNTAIN THAT IS SUCH A TREMENDOUS RESOURCE TO THIS COUNTY?”

ithout much fanfare and with little awareness among the general population, the Loudoun County Planning Commission last week approved a request that may dramatically alter one of the region’s most pristine and extraordinary vistas. While the applicant may have very well met the letter of the law and the commission may have, likewise, followed its proper procedures accordingly, a fundamental question has been raised that warrants deeper examination and consideration: “Whose view—or view shed—is it anyway?” The particular subject is a request by Parsons Environment and Infrastructure Group on behalf of telecommunications giant AT&T to expand an existing facility on the ridgeline of Short Hill Mountain, approximately four miles northeast of the intersection of Rt. 9 and Harpers Ferry Road. The existing switching facility, most of which is underground, occupies a portion of about 15 cleared acres of some 176 acres owned by AT&T on the mountain. According to the applicant, the addition is to “install modern telephone transmission and processing equipment to support the switching facility.” Currently, looking at the ridge from the west and east, a daytime observer will notice a substantial unnatural notch in the tree line at the location, but no structure is visible. Some lights can be seen at night. This break in the ridgeline is the only manmade interruption of a mountain that stretches some 15 miles from just northwest of Purcellville to the Potomac River, (the only other break in Virginia is the narrow Hillsboro Gap carved by Catoctin Creek). The mountain then continues across Maryland and into Pennsylvania. The Short Hill runs parallel to the larger Blue Ridge range to the northwest. Our nation’s settlers, pioneers and founding fathers including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, would still readily recognize these ridges and vistas more than two centuries after they traversed through them. The proposal by AT&T is for the construction, atop its existing underground facility (which dates from 1963) of a 160,000-square-foot structure with a footprint of about 95,000 square feet. The building is proposed to be more than 400 feet in length with the majority of it standing 35 feet tall. Despite of the applicant’s proposed mitigation and disguising efforts, there is no denying that this massive structure will be visible from miles away, a prominent manmade scar on an otherwise undisturbed natural feature that

has dominated the landscape for eons. Ignoring the debate about the merits or needs (or actual purpose) of the facility; or the right of the applicant to build it under the county’s Revised General Plan and Zoning Ordinance and the process used to inform the public, a larger question looms. Does this county—do we as citizens—have the obligation or the will to protect its most precious and dwindling natural resources, namely the open spaces and majestic viewsheds that can never be replaced or restored once they are gone?

Emergencies << FROM 1 and contributions to the Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management and system infrastructure. The remaining 37 percent went to volunteers. “At this point we’ve certainly received more than nothing; however, I wouldn’t say it’s made up for all of our financial troubles, or making ends meet,” Kahn said. His squad got a check for the first two quarters of billing for $12,028. It’s not nothing—but measured against the cost of operating a rescue squad, it can seem like a drop in the bucket. For billing purposes, the county charges $467 to $770 per ambulance ride (based on the level of service required), plus $11 per mile. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, the county calculates it recouped $44.39 per run. In the second quarter, that rose to $184. Kahn said his Purcellville squad is using the money to purchase a powered cot, as it attempts to avoid patient and provider injury by replacing all its manual cots. One of those powered cots costs about $18,000. Still, Kahn said, “That is an item we would not be able to afford without the ambulance billing.” Doug Rambo, treasurer of the Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad, the county’s other all-volunteer squad, calculated that Sterling volunteers ran about two-thirds of all calls in the

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

A firefighter EMT preps an ambulance for service Tuesday afternoon at the Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad station on Catoctin Circle in Leesburg.

county during both quarters from their three stations. In the second quarter, after the county had taken its cut, the Sterling squad got $39.72 per incident. Purcellville took in $41.58 per incident. Sterling received $106,371 during the the first two quarters. Because of the way the Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management keeps track of its cash, the reimbursements to the stations can lag behind by several months as money is collected, and the second quarter

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showed dramatically more income than the first. The checks to volunteer rescue squads may continue to climb. Fire-Rescue Chief Keith Brower said there have been a few glitches rolling out the new system and making sure everyone understands the complex allocation formula, but, overall, the program has helped. “We view this as a system add,” Brower said, adding that in an era of $250,000 ambulances, every little bit of funding helps. The county takes its administrative and contract costs for billing off the top of billing revenue. The county then distributes what revenue is left based on a formula that takes into account who owned the transport vehicle (volunteers or the county), who owned the station that took the call (volunteers or the county), who sent the EMS provider, and who was the first responder— all either a volunteer squad or a professional working for the Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management—in addition to sending 25 percent to county-owned infrastructure such as department-owned buildings. Even though Sterling ran two-thirds of the calls, Rambo calculates it has been getting about 10 percent of gross

Whose view? << FROM 37

May 5 – 11, 2016

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mission, posed a pointed question to county staff that needs to be considered by all of us: “Is there not any concern about Short Hill, one of the great natural resources not only of Loudoun County but of the Virginia Piedmont… a mountain that is such a tremendous resource to this county?” There does remain further review of this development. In approving a commission permit, the Planning Commission determined the general location, character and the extent of the proposal is substantially in accord with the county’s adopted comprehensive plan. Yes or no was the only option, although some commissioners sought to discuss reasonable alternatives to mitigate what one referred

revenues. “More and more, I think we see the county continuing to count on us for the services we provide, but the resources are becoming more difficult to access,” Rambo said. So far this fiscal year, billing has just broken even with the previous year after a drop in fundraising revenues, he said. Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management staff members say they’re not overly worried that people will decline an ambulance ride because they’re concerned about getting a bill. “Absolutely it’s not anything we’ve seen,” said Danielle Brosan, the department’s EMS Cost Recovery Manager. The number of rides to the hospital have stayed steady countywide as the department transitioned to billing. “If people need to call 911, they’re not concerned about receiving a bill,” Brosan said. The Purcellville rescue squad has seen a few more people decline ambulance service, Kahn said, but he couldn’t pin that to ambulance billing. And it’s too early to say whether billing for ambulance rides will test the community’s generosity when it comes to the volunteer rescue squads’ fundraising, he added. “Our winter fundraising drive did come in lower than last year. But to be honest, I’d want to go a couple more fundraising drives before I tied it to anything,” Kahn said. “Just one fundraising drive being down could be anything.” “I’ll concede there are transitions at the startup of anything that need to be worked out,” Rambo said. He’s still waiting to see where funding levels off. “Fortunately or unfortunately, Loudoun has changed a lot, and the day of the volunteer companies being able to support themselves—it’s just over,” Kahn said. “The expenses of running a volunteer company are just far too high for anyone to cover on donations alone. … At this point, the volunteer companies and the county have to work together, because it’s the only way we survive.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

to as an “eyesore.” However, the Board of Supervisors still must ratify or overrule the Planning Commission’s action. For residents, the vast majority of whom had no notice of the proposal, there is one more chance to make their views known to their supervisors. At the very least, re-evaluation of the building’s height should be on the table. Let’s hope, with this particular application on Short Hill and others surely to come, that future generations won’t be shaking their heads in wonder as to what we were thinking, and ruefully asking, “Whose view was it anyway?” Roger L. Vance is the mayor of Hillsboro and former editor of American History magazine.

<< FROM 1

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Voters also went to the polls in Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg and Round Hill to select mayors and council members. Of those races, only Middleburg’s council race had more

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candidates than available seats. Voting in those towns was much lighter than in the Purcellville race. In Hamilton, 38 of the town’s 415 registered voters participated in the election that featured three incumbents. They gave John Unger a rare unanimous vote of support. Vice Mayor Kenneth Wine followed with 33 votes and Matthew Clark got 32. In Lovettsville, 85 of the 1,361 registered voters cast ballots. Mayor Bob Zoldos II was unopposed in his bid for a third two-year term and garnered 78 votes. Planning Commissioner Robert Gentile led the council race with 75 votes, followed by Jim McIntyre (74) and Vice Mayor Michael Senate (56). It will be Senate’s third four-year term and McIntyre’s second. In Middleburg, 85 of the town’s 540 registered voters turned out. Mayor Betsy Allen Davis was unchallenged in her bid for a sixth two-year term and garnered 78 votes. In the council race, which featured all first-time council candidates, Trowbridge M. Littleton (59), Phillip Miller (46) and Kevin Daley (44) were the top vote-getters. Tony Pearce came up just short with 43 votes, according to the unofficial results. In Round Hill, 50 of the town’s 439 voters cast ballots. Mayor Scott Ramsey was unopposed for a third fouryear term; he gote 44 votes. Longtime Councilwoman Mary Anne Graham (42) will be joined on council by newcomers Kim Fortunato (42) and Mike Minshall (40).

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<< FROM 3 ning Commissioner Nedim Ogelman with 938 votes and Ryan Cool with 795. Coming up short were first-time candidate Sam Chapman, who received 481 votes, followed by Councilman John Nave with 361 votes, Vice Mayor Patrick McConville at 356, and first-time candidate Chris Hamilton with 319 votes. Longtime civic activist Kelli Grim also won a council seat, after previous unsuccessful campaigns for mayor and council. She’ll take her seat immediately, filling the unexpired term of Ben Packard, who moved out of town. Grim won a three-way race garnering 733 votes. Melanie Fuller, who was appointed to fill Packard’s seat until Tuesday’s special election, got 403 votes and Sandy Nave got 308. As expected, the Purcellville election saw the most action on Tuesday when voters in five western Loudoun towns went to the polls. Purcellville registered a 28 percent turnout among its 5,323 registered voters. Aside from Grim, the new slate will join Councilwoman Karen Jimmerson, a strong Fraser ally, and Councilman Doug McCollum on the dais starting July 1.

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Loudoun isn’t alone in its efforts. The county’s closest neighbor to the east, Fairfax County, was the focus of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study in 2014 after its school system saw a spike in the number of students taking their own lives. The study found that high expectations for students, parental pressure on students for success and parental denial of mental health issues among their children were some of the key factors that led to suicide. The rate of teen suicides has also increased nationally. In 2014, suicide became the second leading cause of death among youth, surpassing cancer. Lody said his goal is to prevent more teens from taking their lives before suicide becomes a year-over-year rising trend in Loudoun. To do that, his staff is also looking at helping teens cope with the day-in, day-out stresses of high school, long before they’re suicidal. This fall, teachers will receive training on how to teach students to manage academic pressures. The Loudoun County School Board last week adopted a proclamation designating May Mental Health Awareness Month, with the goal of raising awareness about common disorders among youth and making sure families know help is available. In their meeting last week, board

members commended Lody and his team for ramping up their efforts on such short notice and without any more resources. “I want to make sure we keep mental health at the forefront going forward,” Eric DeKenipp (Catoctin) said. “We’re up over 500 percent over previous year averages in regards to suicide, so this is a worthy investment.” Jill Turgeon (Blue Ridge) said she knows of several young people who committed suicide shortly after graduating from Loudoun County schools. She encouraged Lody to provide information to parents on how to help their children as they transition from high school to college or the workforce. He agreed that was a good idea, and noted that the risk of suicide among young people with mental illness doubles in college. Suicide prevention presentations will now not only be just for Loudoun’s freshman students. Acknowledge-Care-Tell will be an ongoing program at every high school grade level. Lody describes the program like a booster shot, that a patient should renew every so often. “We want to remind kids more frequently about the importance of reaching out to adults and looking out for their friends and trying to save lives when they can,” he said. “If we can do this for 16,000 students 10 years in a row and we can save one life it’s absolutely worth all the effort.”

39 May 5 – 11, 2016

Suicide prevention

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Located on Route 28 just 3 miles north of Dulles Airport and 3 miles south of Route 7. Take Route 28. Exit onto West Church Road. Take first right onto Davis Drive. Turn right onto Belfort Park Drive. Turn right onto Shaw Road. Follow Shaw Road to Belfort Furniture Showrooms on both sides of Shaw Road.

Hours: Mon - Sat 10 - 9 • Sun 12 - 6 belfortfurniture.com • 703-406-7600 22250 & 22267 Shaw Road • Dulles, VA

One third deposit required. On purchases of $2999 or more with your Belfort Furniture Credit Card made April 1 - May 8, 2016. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 18 months. Minimum monthly payments required. Subject to credit approval. * Applies only to single-receipt qualifying purchases. One-third deposit required. No interest will be charged on the promo purchase if you pay the promo purchase amount in full within 18 Months by October 2017. If you do not, interest will be charged on the promo purchase from the purchase date. Depending on purchase amount, promotion length and payment allocation, the required minimum monthly payments may or may not pay off purchase by end of promotional period. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases and, after promotion ends, to promotional balance. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%; Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval.