Loudoun Now for May 26, 2016 by Loudoun Now

LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

[ Vol. 1, No. 29 ]

[ loudounnow.com ]

BRUSH UP ON THAT USELESS KNOWLEDGE. ..................24

[ May 26 – June 1, 2016 ]

COUNTING THE NEED

Report Shows Progress Made in Fighting Homelessness

picture of homelessness in Loudoun because it overlooks people in jail, in the hospital, or staying in hotels or with friends or family on the night of Jan. 28. To receive federal Department of Housing and Urban Development money, jurisdictions must follow narrow guidelines, counting only individuals who are living in shelters or in places not meant for human habitation. But many in the county government and nonprofit sector say the count shows that Loudoun has made progress in providing help to those who need it most. Beth Hodge, executive director of the Loudoun Homeless Services Center, has some reservations about looking solely at the Point-in-Time Count as an indication that homelessness is down, in part because this year’s took place when Loudoun had 3 feet of fresh snow on the ground. But she has seen anecdotal evidence that fewer people do not have a place to call home. As one example, she points to the tent city that once existed near the county’s shelter on Meadowview Court in Leesburg that has since gone away. “Yes, we’ve got more work to do,” she said, “but we are definitely moving in the right direction.”

A New Strategy Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

A man makes his way toward the county’s homeless shelter on Sycolin Road in Leesburg. Loudoun County says the number of people without housing is at an all-time low, but the most recent homeless count has some critics.

BY DANIELLE NADLER The totals are in. The number of homeless people in Loudoun has hit a new low. That’s according to the county’s annual Point-in-Time Count, which identi-

fies people who are considered “literally homeless” under a strict federal definition. The count, conducted on Jan. 28, found 134 people lacked housing. It’s the lowest homeless count Loudoun has seen

in more than 10 years, all while the county’s population has grown by more than 100,000 people. Some say the Point-in-Time Count— the results of which were released earlier this month—does not give the full

For several years, Loudoun County government and nonprofit leaders saw the total number of homeless people tick up from 152 in 2009 to 179 in 2014, and many of the same faces each year. “Clearly, the way we were addressing homelessness wasn’t working. So we said, ‘it’s time to be creative and think outside the box,’” Hodge said. In 2014, Loudoun County’s DepartHOMELESSNESS >> 31

Residents Press for More Answers on Short Hill Plans BY RENSS GREENE As AT&T presses its controversial plan to expand its decades-old switching station buried on Short Hill Mountain, people who live around the ridge have more questions than answers. More than 20 people turned up to speak during last week’s Board of Supervisors meeting—and many of those were among the more than 200 who showed up Monday night at a meeting in

Lovettsville hosted by Parsons Environment and Infrastructure Group Inc., the firm representing AT&T on its county applications. Loudouners want to know what, exactly, is going in the proposed building’s two-story, 160,000-square-foot footprint, which will go on top of an existing underground facility, along with eight backup generators and 22 air coolers. They want to know what impact the vastly expanded facility will have on the

Got Plumbing Problems? Call the Best Plumber in Loudoun County.

mountain and on the people who live at its base or who enjoy the view of Short Hill. And they want to know why this new facility isn’t being regulated as a data center, which is not allowed in that area. “I’ve been in the telecommunications industry for almost 30 years, I’ve worked in both landline and mobile telecommunications, and everything about this application reads ‘data center,’” William SHORT HILL >> 38

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Residents at the meeting in Lovettsville wait to ask their questions.

Heating • Plumbing • Air Conditioning • Solar

ww.modernmec.com • (571) 252-7919

ECRWSS Postal Customer

Permit #131 Leesburg, VA

PAID

U.S. Postage PRESRT STD

40850 ROBIN CIR, LEESBURG PRICED TO SELL! Custom-built stone, brick, & cedar estate on 3.54 acres w/ amenities for lifestyle full of entertaining, leisure, & enjoyment. Features include heated indoor pool, sports pub, reg. racquetball court w/ hoop, audio/video system w/2 home theaters, rooftop deck, pic. pavilion w/ gas barbecue, potting shed, 2+ 2-car garages, & caretaker apartment. No HOA. APPOINTMENT ONLY. $1,499,000 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 • Peter@atokaproperties.net Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 • Scott@atokaproperties.net

14441 DOWDEN DOWNS DR, HAYMARKET Custom Italian tile & marble. Granite in the kitchen & all baths. Two story foyer & family room. Custom stone & brick work inside & out. Expansive gourmet eatin kitchen w/ living space. Huge deck across the back w/ spacious 3 season room overlooking spacious yard & private pond. Theater room, ready to finish bar, wine cellar & safe in basement. 4 car side load garage. Fios! $1,450,000 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 • Peter@atokaproperties.net Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 • Scott@atokaproperties.net

23545 OLD MEADOW LN, MIDDLEBURG Hard to find minutes from town, private and protected, all brick Georgian built in 1998. 10’ ceilings on first floor, coved ceiling, lovely molding, 2 gas fireplaces, 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, new sunroom, great kitchen, 3 car garage w/ workshop, circular asphalt driveway on 7.75 acres. Perennial gardens with stone walls, flagstone terraces, and views. Home is in excellent condition. $1,325,000 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 • Peter@atokaproperties.net Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 • Scott@atokaproperties.net

40855 ROBIN CIRCLE, LEESBURG

305 MARKET ST, LEESBURG

One-of-a-kind home in Leesburg, main level master, open kitchen & morning room, family room with stacked stone FP huge finished lower level with granite wet bar & wine cellar, huge pool - diving board & retractable pool cover, 8-person hot tub, stone patio, amazing deck, gazebo, outdoor kitchen, koi pond. $ 1,199,000 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 • Peter@atokaproperties.net Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 • Scott@atokaproperties.net

Within Historic District of Leesburg~This wonderful circa 1852 house is a few blocks from center of town, yet privately tucked away with its own garden and pool! Graceful, charming and now renovated, which includes soon to be finished new metal roof, exterior painting, and tar and chip driveway. New Kitchen, 3.5 Baths, Heat, A/C, interior painting, all new! An in-town Retreat! Pls Call for appt.! $1,265,000 Mary Owen Chatfield Taylor • (540) 454-6500 • moctrealestate@gmail.com

14751 PURCELLVILLE RD, PURCELLVILLE 17.5 Acre fenced & level, property in a beautiful private setting with center aisle barn for horses or agricultural pursuit. Very spacious home with 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths is wonderful for entertaining. Main floor office space to work from home! Large deck overlooks pastures & mountain views. $760,000 Janet Mulhern (703) 431-2084 www.PurcellvilleRealEstate.Com

May 26 – June 1, 2016

so ld

40276 IRON LEIGE CT, LEESBURG Unrivaled value in this 7200sf stone-front home in beautiful Beacon Hill. Cul-de-sac location, tucked away & backing to acres of grassy open space. Craftmark-built 5BR home features multiple FPs & 2 bright sunrooms to let in daylight & view. Established luxury community, just off the Greenway. Video tour at YourCountryHome.net/BeaconHill $899,000 Kim Hurst • 703-932-9651 • YourCountryHome.net

20628 BREEZYHILL DR, ASHBURN

511 A ST, PURCELLVILLE

62 COLONIAL HWY E, HAMILTON

Come see this Ashburn Farm’s former model home in great condition with critical updates done for you - new roof, new gas furnace, new larger ac, new hot water heater, new windows all within last 4 years! Updated kitchen with SS appliances, updated master bath, grand two story family room, finished walkout lower level, private back deck with fenced back yard. Ready to move right in. $627,000 Ryan Clegg • (703) 209-9849 • Ryan@atokaproperties.com

Completely remodeled 3/4 bedroom Farmhouse. All new floors, kitchen, baths, windows, & siding- the house was taken down to the studs by the current owners and completely remodeled. Top-of-the line bathrooms and kitchen. Huge exterior deck and versatile large detached studio that could easily be converted to garage/workshop/apartment/studio/etc...a rare opportunity! $599,000 Colleen Gustavson • (703) 296-2347 • Colleen@middleburgrealestate.com

End your commute! Work downstairs and live upstairs! This old Hamilton Bank offers the unique combination of commercial and residential space in a great location. Large and spacious rooms on the main floor featuring beautiful marble floors, the original bank vault, kitchen & bath. Comfortable living space on the second floor with 3 bedrooms! $499,000 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 • Peter@atokaproperties.net Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 • Scott@atokaproperties.net

INSIDE:

BY DANIELLE NADLER

Residents fight to draw the line on development ......................5

Courts busy with two murder trials ....................................12 Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) signed a bill Tuesday meant to clear some of the red tape standing in the way of broadband providers connecting some of rural Virginia to high-speed Internet.

taining a high quality of life in our communities and meeting our economic and workforce development goals. Yet too many Virginia communities lack access to reliable, fast and affordable Internet connections,” McAuliffe said during the event. “RUOnlineVa is an important way for the Commonwealth to engage citizens and the private sector in fully understanding the problem and working to find solutions.” The governor’s visit to the state arboretum came just hours after CNN reported that McAuliffe is under investigation by the FBI over donations to his 2013 gubernatorial campaign. Among the donations that drew investigators’ interest was $120,000 from a Chinese businessman, according to the report. An attorney representing the governor was quoted as saying that contributions to the campaign from Wang Wenliang were completely lawful. dnadler@loudounnow.com

What’s Latin for all the rage? There are thousands of Loudoun kids who can tell you .........16

Sheila Johnson offers a business lesson in patience ................21

More Kindergartens Get Full-Day Seats; Superintendent Promises Countywide Program BY DANIELLE NADLER

full-day program is projected to cost $11 million more annually. Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn), vice chairman of the Board of Supervisors, said he’s concerned that supervisors will get a huge funding request to build classroom additions all at once, and the need for more school buildings already has the county close to its borrowing limit. “What I’m worried about is we’ll get to 2018-2019 and say we need all these things right now for full-day kindergarten,” he said. Williams responded, “There are a lot of moving pieces, but that is something we’re keeping in mind.” As part of his presentation to supervisors and School Board members, the superintendent posted a photo of a half full (or half empty) glass of water. “Is it a glass half full or a glass half empty,” he asked. “We feel that its both in this case. We can be pleased in the progress that we’ve made, all while having a sense of urgency in moving forward.” dnadler@loudounnow.com

Loudoun Museum gets funding boost ...................................10

INDEX: Loudoun Gov ................. 5 Leesburg .......................8 Public Safety ...............12 Our Towns ....................14 Education ....................16 Biz ..............................21 LoCo Living ..................24 Loudoun Moment ........28 Obituaries ...................31 Classifieds ..................32 Opinion .......................36

loudounnow.com

About 500 Loudoun kindergartners won the lottery last week. The drawing, that is, to get one of the coveted seats in the county’s 109 fullday kindergarten classrooms this fall. Loudoun County Public Schools held the lottery Wednesday, May 18, and released updated stats on the county’s efforts to expand full-day kindergarten at the Joint Board of Supervisors/School Board Committee meeting Monday. The school system will expand its full-day kindergarten offerings to 2,507 students this fall, about half of the county’s kindergartners. That’s up from 34 percent of Loudoun kindergartners who receive full-day instruction this school year. All kindergartners who are considered academically at risk are enrolled in a full-day program, and the rest of the seats are entered into the lottery. The Loudoun school system is one of three in Virginia that does not offer a full, six-hour academic day to every

kindergartner, and Superintendent Eric Williams has been criticized for not having a clear path for Loudoun to eventually provide full-day kindergarten countywide. But Williams told members of the School Board and Board of Supervisors on Monday that plan is coming. By 2020, he and his staff are planning to provide a full school day to 85 percent of kindergartners and, in that same year, adopt a plan to equip Loudoun schools to provide every kindergartener with a full academic day. Williams said he will propose a plan, recognizing there are several “huge caveats.” Among those is nailing down enrollment projections—more families are expected to move from private school kindergarten to public schools once full-day programs are offered— and finding room in the school system’s and county’s capital improvement program for kindergarten classroom additions, among the much-needed school buildings. Plus, the School Board may need to find savings elsewhere in its operating budget, as a countywide

It was hailed as big step toward bringing faster Internet to rural western Loudoun. Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe was in neighboring Clarke County to sign House Bill 912, which essentially allows broadband providers to install fiber and other infrastructure needed for high-speed Internet along gravel roads. Del. Randy Minchew (R-10), a co-sponsor of the bill, said crafting the legislation was an effort of a lot of invested parties, including broadband providers like Comcast. A suggestion made by the providers was to allow them to install fiber conduit underground along gravel roads. That is less expensive than installing it above ground on poles because electrical companies charge a per-pole fee, Minchew said. The companies will still need to obtain a permit from the Virginia Department of Transportation, he noted. But representatives from several broadband providers who attended the bill-signing told Minchew they plan to line up for permits when the law takes effect July 1. “Hopefully, after July 1, we’ll see some much-needed broadband being laid,” he said. He’s seen firsthand the need for faster Internet in much of Loudoun and its neighboring counties. He’s been at a winery when workers could not process credit card payments because of a poor Internet connection, and has run into students working on homework at Starbucks at 10 p.m. because they do not have access to high-speed Internet at home. “When kids can’t do their homework at home, that’s a problem,” he said. “Broadband is no longer a nicety in rural areas, it’s really a utility.” As part of the bill-signing ceremony, McAuliffe also announced a new statewide initiative to better understand where Virginia has the largest gaps in broadband coverage. RUOnlineVA, which launched Tuesday and will run through early August, will use an online demand capture tool created by the Center for Innovative Technology and Virginia Tech’s Center for Geospatial Information Technology. Virginia residents in need of Internet service are asked to log onto RUOnline.virginia.gov or call 877-969-6685 and answer a few questions regarding where they live and what level of connectivity they have. Responses will be aggregated, mapped, and shared with state leaders and the public to stimulate broadband policy and funding discussions throughout the remainder of the administration. “Broadband has become as essential as any utility for main-

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Gov. McAuliffe Signs Bill Aimed at Boosting Rural Broadband

loudounnow.com

memorialHday

Meet Claire

C E L E B R AT I O N Open Memorial Day 10 - 9

…sleek and stylish

SAVE MORE WITH INSTANT REBATES

100w/4-PIECE PURCHASE

INSTANT $ REBATE

Find your perfect sofa at Belfort.

Available in Hundreds of Fabrics including

QUEEN STORAGE BED SPECIAL $799

Reg. $899, list $1500; king special $999, reg. $1099, list $1854. 4 pieces include bed, dresser, mirror and night stand.

Free Chair

ROWE FACTORY AUTHORIZED SPECIAL

Save $200 on Sectionals, $100 on Sofas, $50 on Chairs 75” CLAIRE SOFA SPECIAL FROM $975

This sofa features button detail on front and sides, reg. $1075, list $1650. 86” sofa special from $1025. 86” sofa, as shown (includes accent pillows), special $1199, reg. $1299. H Made in the USA.

The Only Store in the DC Area that Has Over 300 Sofas, 100 Bedrooms, 100 Dining Rooms and Free Design Services. PALLISER MOTION FREE POWER UPGRADE UP TO $370 VALUE!

160

INSTANT $ REBATE UP TO

ABERDEEN DINING TABLE $645

List $990. Side chair $165, list $249. Server $769, list $1185. * 7-piece set: table, 5 side chairs and server.

CUSTOMIZE IT! 75 FABRICS, ONE LOW PRICE

FAIRFAX QN. BED SPECIAL $1499

89” ARLINGTON ALL-LEATHER RECLINING SOFA

Reg. $1599, list $2475. King special $1699, reg. $1859, list $2865.

Manual reclining sofa from $1629, list $2505. Also available in fabric.

Save More Factory Authorized Instant Rebates See store for details.

Save Up to $300 Select Upholstery Huntington House • Rowe Bernhardt • BMod • More

Wax p

oo l

R urch W. Ch

Davis

Driv e

io n

Old Ox Rd.

846

v Bl

Ste

g rlin

Rd. Shaw

d. c Blv

Pacifi

606

636

. Sully Rd

at loc Re

Belfort Park e Driv

Dr.

Oce an C t.

Old O x Rd. 606

NEW! 78” EMMETT SOFA $599 List $1199. H Made in the USA.

Save $50 for Every $ 500 You Spend Select manufacturers.

Save Up To $1200 on Select Mattress Sets

Kincaid Solid Wood Furniture Kincaid Upholstery Stanley Furniture

Special Offers — Serta iComfort, Sealy Posturepedic, Sealy Hybrid & Optimum, Stearns & Foster, Tempur-Pedic

Cresent Furniture Universal Furniture Lexington Furniture

15 Minutes from Leesburg & Tysons!

Rd.

Shaw Rd.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

With 7-Piece Purchase*

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.

Love these looks?

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

View our new 52-page Catalog online.

Residents Rally to Oppose Development in Transition Area

Danielle Nadler/LoudounNow

Rae Carson, who’s lived on Braddock Road near Rt. 15 for 28 years, and a neighbor look at maps of the Transition Policy Area, meant to be a buffer between Loudoun’s suburban development and rural land.

if you don’t, the next thing you know the decision will be made to turn the transition area into another suburban area.” Don Goff, also a part of the alliance, asked those in the room why they moved to Loudoun. “The open space,” one man answered. “We were refugees from Fairfax County,” a woman said. “Loudoun was unspoiled, uncrowded.” “I’m not saying no building, but let’s do it reasonably and rationally,” Goff added. Among their concerns is that the Board of Supervisors may adopt recommendations to allow almost three dozen new uses that can be developed in designated “open space.” The uses that may be approved by right are

vague, Goff said, and range from an indoor recreation center with 400 parking spaces to a farm winery. “So they can just open up all the open space to all these uses,” he added. A development that has the group’s immediate concern is called Kirkpatrick West Commercial Center, which calls for a 78,000 square foot Harris Teeter—almost double the size of the grocer’s typical store—a gas station and three drive-through restaurants near the intersection of Braddock Road and Northstar Boulevard. The bulk of the project has been approved, but the developer is requesting to amend the concept plan to increase the commercial center from 105,100 square feet to 129,167 square feet and allow for

Bikini Time in No Time!

dnadler@loudounnow.com

As Seen In: Vogue, The Doctors, Good Morning America, & More!

with

20%

OFF CoolSculpting

Summer is just around the corner! Cool down with FDA-cleared CoolSculpting to say goodbye to stubborn bumps and bulges without surgery or downtime. By precisely targeting the fat you want to lose, non-invasive CoolSculpting can help you reduce fat that resists even diet and exercise.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation 703.348.8159

before

There’s growing concern that tract homes, fast food restaurants and grocery stores will soon take up more and more of a swath of land meant to be a buffer between Loudoun’s suburban developments and its rural west. A group of about 40 people gathered at The Willowsford Grange on Thursday to talk about potential developments considered for the county’s Transition Policy Area, 22,813 acres designated as part of the Comprehensive Plan for low density development designed to provide a gradual shift from dense neighborhoods to open space. The meeting was designed by activist group Transition Area Alliance. “It is very encouraging to see a new crowd of people willing to take a stand to try to preserve what is left of what used to be a beautiful county,” said Jim Burton, who was a vocal opponent of development when he served on the county Board of Supervisors from 1995 to 2011. He said there’s a concern that current supervisors will green light more housing—beyond the 30,000 units that can be built under current zoning—and with it bring large shopping centers, more traffic and overcrowded schools. Burton urged those gathered to be tenacious in making their opposition to new suburban-type development, especially in the transition area, known to supervisors. “I encourage you to raise hell. I’m sorry for the language but that’s what you need to do,” he said. “Keep the pressure on them, because

drive-through restaurants. Giovanni Cortalo, a founding member of an activist group opposing the project, Saving Braddock Road Task Force, said he visited a Harris Teeter of a similar size in Pinehurst, NC, and said, “It is beautiful. It saddens me that I have to fight against it. There are a lot of communities who would kill for this. But this is not the right location for it. … It should be in the middle of a suburban area.” He said the shopping center is not meant to serve just nearby neighborhoods, but it will be a destination center, similar to Wegmans in Leesburg. “The roads can’t handle it,” he added. Rae Carson, who’s lived on Braddock Road near Rt. 15 for the past 28 years, said she understands change is inevitable but she wants to see the transition area be a mix of development and open space. “This zone is meant to be a buffer between developed suburbia and the rural portion of the county,” she said. “It needs to have characteristics of both, but we’re tipping too far beyond what we have the infrastructure for.” The Kirkpatrick West development could be up for a Board of Supervisors’ public hearing as soon as June 15. Those who gathered agreed to make their opposition known to that project, and others like it, do not belong in the transition area. “This is just one living example of how one small development has made our lives hell,” Cortalo said. “In itself it’s a nice project, it’s just the wrong location.”

May 26 – June 1, 2016

BY DANIELLE NADLER

after

Unretouched AVIE! CoolSculpting Patient Photos

before

after

Unretouched AVIE! CoolSculpting Patient Photos

areas treated: double chin • bra roll • abdomen • muffin top • love handles • inner & outer thighs

to life! your life!

Medical Director: Khalique Zahir, md

aviemedspa.com

facebook.com/aviemedspa

AVIE! is a Certified CoolSculpting Practice and has performed over 800 treatments with amazing results!

Special promotions valid until 5.31.16, and may not be combined. Must mention this ad to receive specials. Individual results vary. Other restrictions may apply.

loudounnow.com

MODEL

[ LOUDOUN ]

6 loudounnow.com

Troubled ERP Upgrades Gets $2M More

BY RENSS GREENE

File photo

Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Captains Greg Brown and Greg Ahlemann told supervisors that the county’s codified noise ordinances are “unenforceable” during a board meeting in April.

County Moves to Fix Noise Rules BY RENSS GREENE A Board of Supervisors committee has recommended fixes to noise rules that the Sheriff ’s Office has been unable to enforce since 2013. The committee’s changes would both eliminate the “reasonable person” standard in the codified ordinance—which the Virginia Supreme Court struck down as unconstitutionally vague in a 2009 case in Virginia Beach—and set consistent noise standards for breweries and wineries under the zoning code. The sheriff ’s office and county zoning staff members, who enforce different types of noise complaints, also are formalizing their cooperation, although LCSO Captain Greg Brown said the spirit of their work would be the same. “Historically speaking, the relationship between deputies and zoning, it’s really not going to change, besides formalizing it and training,” Brown said. Some noise, such as barking dogs and loud music, are covered under the

county’s codified ordinances, which are enforced by the sheriff ’s office. Others, such as noise produced by a business, are enforced by the county Department of Planning and Zoning. Sheriff ’s deputies frequently respond to both types of complaint. Previously, they could only act as intermediaries for noises that would have been covered under the codified noise ordinance, and will continue to direct complaints about noise covered under zoning laws to the zoning staff. To clear up confusion about the two sets of noise laws, county staff members are developing a set of frequently asked questions to post online, and are also establishing standards for where and how to sample noise levels from businesses. Members of the Transportation and Land Use Committee also asked the staff to develop zoning amendments to apply uniform noise standards for breweries and wineries, both farm and commercial. “I think unless you have some com-

pelling reason why not, I think these should all be regulated the same,” said Supervisor Geary M. Higgins (R-Catoctin). “They’re very similar uses in very similar circumstances.” “It’ll be important for the public, it’ll be important for the property owner,” said committee Chairwoman Suzanne M. Volpe (R-Algonkian). “And it’s important not only for our sheriff ’s deputies, but for zoning enforcement, that we have everything at one set standard so there isn’t this confusion.” Noise levels from all types of wineries and breweries would be measured at the complainant’s property line. Previously, commercial winery noise levels were measured at the winery’s property line. The committee forwarded its recommendations to a June 7 meeting of the full board with a recommendation for a public hearing on July 13. rgreeene@loudounnow.com

Supervisors Seek Tests of Crumb Rubber Fields BY RENSS GREENE In response to concerns over the health safety of artificial turf at high schools, county supervisors will ask the Loudoun County School Board for permission to test three crumb rubber fields to find out exactly what’s in them. Supervisors on Thursday, May 19, voted to allocate $27,900 for the testing. Some supervisors were critical of the proposal, which county staff members emphasized would not “provide sufficient information to infer a human health risk associated with CRI [crumb rubber infill] on playing fields.” The tests will tell the county what is in the material, and whether it is entering the bodies of student athletes and, if so, whether it is causing harm or simply passing back out without impact. “All we’re going to get is data that

we can’t benchmark against anything,” said Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn). Supervisor Suzanne M. Volpe (R-Algonkian) also pointed out that the Environmental Protection Agency has just begun a more comprehensive twoyear study of crumb rubber’s health effects. “Our tax dollars on the federal level are going to pay for a more thorough study,” Volpe said. Still, other supervisors said some information is better than none. “I don’t want to wait two years to find out what’s in our crumb rubber here in Loudoun County,” Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) said. He said the study was worthwhile if only to put parents’ minds at ease about lead content. “I would like for us to be able to say there’s no lead in our

crumb rubber, because the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] says there’s no acceptable level of lead for children to swallow or absorb or ingest.” The board voted 5-3-1 to ask the School Board for permission to test three fields representative of different sources of crumb rubber. Supervisors Volpe, Buona, and Ron A. Meyer Jr. (R-Broad Run) voted against; Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) was away. School board members sounded in favor of the idea during Monday’s Joint Board of Supervisors/School Board meeting. Jeff Morse (Dulles) said it may be smart to test the lead levels in the soil on a grass field: “We need a benchmark.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

‘The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors has approved up to $2 million in additional funding to get a long-awaited software upgrade moving again. The county has been trying to upgrade the software since 2011, but the third and final phase of the project has hit a lot of problems. Now the county will have to get a different firm to go back and re-implement the second phase. Loudoun supervisors in November of 2011 approved a contract up to $21.1 million to implement Oracle eBusiness Suite, a set of programs meant to handle everything from payroll to mass appraisals to tax billing across both the county and public schools. The programs are collectively known as Enterprise Resource Planning software, or the ERP system. The previous suite of software is more than 20 years old. In December 2013, the board earmarked another $9.2 million for an ERP Implementation Fund in the county capital project budget. Then, in December 2015, the board appropriated $1.5 million more for the project. This, a staff report notes, did not include future project management, consulting, and technical support expenses. According to Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles), the $2 million comes from unallocated funds already in the project budget. Up to this point, the work has been done by Applications Software Technology Corporation, but in March the county staff announced that the project was on hold and that the county held AST to be in breach of contract for failing to deliver. The third phase of the contract has missed three go-live dates. According to staff reports, in October 2015, Oracle Consulting and Sales found the software built so far has “overly complex and unnecessary configurations.” Now the county will seek out another vendor to complete the third phase of the project. “We are continuing to discuss with AST their involvement with the Project,” Letourneau wrote in an email. “It is anticipated that these discussions will conclude in the next few weeks. There is another more substantial phase remaining for the reimplementation and it is anticipated that there will be finality regarding AST’s involvement before the second phase begins in August. “The reimplementation will resolve the issues and challenges from the initial implementation.” That will leave only phase two yet to complete. That is the one giving the county and its contractor problems. It covers human resources, such as payroll. Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) emphasized that the county is not revisiting any part of the software suite that is already operational. “I will say that I’m cautiously optimistic that we’re very close to having a settlement,” he said. “But that said, we have to move on with getting phase two done. We can’t just sit here and not get it done.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

Former Loudoun Water GM Jennings Appointed to Planning Commission

Loudoun Maintains Triple Triple-A Bond Rating

Freedom High School students were recognized for their prom fundraising with a resolution at the Board of Supervisors on Thursday, May 19.

86 North Reid Street • Hamilton, Virginia 20158

540-338-7760

44 Years Growing For You • Hours: 10-5 • 7 Days

The Hometown Experts With A World of Experience!®

Courtesy Monique Le

A selfie from in front of the dais at the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, snapped by Freedom High School student Monique Le. Students from left, Junior class secretary Ashley Nguyen, junior class historian Kyra Flynn, senior class historian Monique Le, senior class secretary Isabella Maddiex, junior class secretary Katie Hahn, and senior class vice president Shankar Narayan.

$549,900

3 ACRES, POOL

Wonderful private 3+ acres beautifully landscaped, curved tree lined drive & mountain views!. Front porch & large deck overlooking pool, stone patio, fish pond & fire pit! Freshly painted, new carpet. Granite kitchen, 5 burner duo fuel oven, breakfast bar. Gas fireplace in family room. 3-stall barn, pool house, shed and invisible dog fence. 22x44 pool!

LEESBURG $699,000

HAMILTON $679,000

3 acres, 5000 SQFT

Coming soon, 3+ ACRES

ROUND HILL $575,000

PURCELLVILLE $475,000

3 Acres with Creek

Custom built, Open floor plan, Views loudounnow.com

Rather than use ticket sales to secure a fancy venue, FHS junior and senior class officers decided to hold prom at the school and donate all proceeds from ticket sales to support pediatric cancer research. In addition to ticket sales, the “Hats on Charity Ball” took donations from the community. Dinner was donated by Whole Foods Market and the dessert bar and ice sculpture were donated by the National Conference Center. The Washington Redskins, Nationals, and Capitals donated tickets and signed memorabilia for a silent auction. Junior and senior class officers, sponsors Jessica Connors and Donna Draisey, and Principal Doug Fulton travelled to Memphis, Tennessee to present a $45,000 check to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and other charities including Ellie’s Hats, Smashing Walnuts, Still Brave and Team Mathias also received donations. And after the resolution was presented, senior class historian Monique Le leapt in front of the assembled supervisors and students for what Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) termed the first-ever selfie at the dais.

LOVETTSVILLE

The nation’s big three bond ratings agencies have all affirmed Loudoun’s perfect triple-A bond rating. Moody’s, Fitch Ratings, and Standard & Poor’s have all released their evaluation of Loudoun’s general obligation bonds in the past few weeks. Fitch said its rating reflects the county’s “exceptionally strong operating performance, supported by solid revenue growth and expenditure flexibility.” Moody’s cited Loudoun’s “consistently solid financial performance” and “manageable debt burden.” Standard & Poor’s highlighted Loudoun’s “very strong economy with access to a broad and diverse metropolitan statistical area” and the county’s “very strong management, with strong financial policies and practices.” Fitch also upgraded its rating of the county’s Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan from AA to AA+. That loan goes toward financing Metro’s Silver Line extension into Loudoun. “The credit rating agencies have once again affirmed that Loudoun County is one of the most dynamic, well-managed localities in the nation,” said Supervisor Matt Letourneau (R-Dulles), who chairs the

Freedom High School Honored for Prom Fundraising

Hanging Baskets – Geraniums, Ferns, Combos, and Impatiens Combo Pots, Geraniums (4 1/2” Pots) Annuals, Perennials are ready, Herbs & Vegetables

Fred Jennings, who served for more than a year as Loudoun Water’s general manager, has been appointed to the Planning Commission. Jennings fills the seat left by the passing of late commission Vice Chairman Robert Klancher, who died at 57 on Wednes- Jennings day, May 4, after struggling with cancer. Ashburn Supervisor Ralph M. Buona (R), who made the nomination, said it was clear to him that the board would have to put aside the usual appointment timeline— with a nomination one month and a confirmation the next—to fill all planning commission seats as soon as possible. The Loudoun Water Board of Directors terminated Jennings’ contract as the utility’s chief executive in February 2015. Before taking the position, he served on the board for nine years, including six as chairman. Jennings is the principal and vice president of Consulting for Utilities International Inc., which creates financial modeling and forecasting for electric and gas utilities. He is also president and founder of F.E. Jennings & Company, Management Advisory Services.

board’s finance committee. “This is reflective of the Board of Supervisors’ solid commitment to sound, fiscal policy and financial management as well as the hard work of county staff,” County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said. In addition, the three rating agencies affirmed Loudoun’s AA+ and Aa1 ratings on the upcoming lease revenue bond sale of $14.5 million for general government projects.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Ellmore’s Garden Center

[ LOUDOUN BRIEFS ]

Offices in Ashburn, Burke, Fairfax, Leesburg and Purcellville

loudounnow.com

[ LEESBURG ]

Town Leaders Prep for ‘Scary’ Proffer Law Change BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ It is a worrisome time for Leesburg town staff and Town Council members, as they grapple with changes coming to a statute in the Virginia State Code that governs proffers. “This is a game changer,” Town Attorney Barbara Notar told council members during Monday night’s work session. The concern among the staff is the potentially negative implications, and the likelihood of future legal woes, related to a new proffer statute set to take effect July 1. Although Notar emphasized to the council that the staff is learning more about the changes on a daily basis, just understanding the new law already has caused “significant work plan impact” among the town’s planning and zoning staff. In short, the new law will allow applicants for rezoning applications in

localities to challenge the reasonableness of a proffer even if it was voluntarily submitted. Any proffers submitted by rezoning applicants now have to be “specifically attributable” to resolve the impacts generated by a new development on surrounding facilities, such as schools, parks, and public safety. “Rezonings will be very data-driven legislative actions,” Notar said. She said for rezoning applications, staff members will need to be prepared with their own impact studies to prove that a requested proffer is reasonable. And, if the numbers are off, it could set the town up for lawsuits. Applicants could only file suit against a locality after a denial of a rezoning; however, a locality is not able to file suit against an applicant if it determines its proffers to be unreasonable. The only power a governing body would have would be to deny the rezoning application, Notar said.

As the staff works to “fast track” review of the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance to incorporate the changes, Notar strongly advised the council to be cautious in its discussions with developers concerning rezoning applications submitted after July 1. “Either don’t [talk to the applicant] or talk to me first,” Notar told the council members. She also said that Attorney General Mark R. Herring (D) has ruled that no moratoriums may be placed on accepting rezoning applications in localities. “This is actually pretty scary,” Vice Mayor Kelly Burk said of the upcoming changes. “This is going to elongate the whole [plan review] process.” Councilwoman Katie Hammler emphasized the need to adopt police intensity factors to allow the town to collect proffer dollars for the Leesburg Police Department, something the council and town staff has previously

spoken about. “It sounds like the only way we may have the ability to deny what would be a very detrimental application would be to say it doesn’t conform to the Town Plan,” she said. Mayor David Butler said another wrinkle of the new law that the town staff needs to figure out is what factors determine if a development will place a school over capacity—a policy decision by the School Board or the fire marshal’s regulations on building capacity. “We have to figure this all out and it’s very confusing,” Brian Boucher, deputy director of the Planning and Zoning Department, said. Notar said she plans to report back to the council next month on what else the staff has learned prior to the new statute taking effect. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

[ LEESBURG BRIEFS ] Town Tops 50K in Population The Town of Leesburg reached a milestone last year, topping 50,000 in population. The number affirms the town’s standing as the most populous town in the commonwealth, and also means it is larger than 26 of the state’s 38 independent cities and 71 of its 95 counties. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s annual population estimates for cities and towns, released last week, the town’s population was 51,209 in July 2015. The town has grown 20.2 percent, or 4 percent annually, since the 2010 Census. That growth rate places Leesburg just behind its western neighbor Hamilton, which has grown 20.4 percent over the same time. The other five Loudoun County towns have seen similar rates of growth, with Loudoun County as a whole ranking number one in the state among counties. “Seeing our population increase more than 20 percent in five years has placed considerable demand on the Town government’s ability to maintain our levels of service,” Town Manager Kaj Dentler stated in a press release. “The significant increase has required our staff to be flexible and creative in order to deliver the services our residents and businesses expect.” Mayor David Butler celebrated the announcement. “Leesburg’s continued growth underscores how successful Northern Virginia has been in job creation, and how desirable Leesburg is as a community to live, enjoy life, and raise a family. As mayor, I’m proud that survey after survey shows that Leesburg is one of the best places to live in the country,” Butler said.

Police Chief Search Narrows The town is getting closer to the selection of a new police chief. Town Manager Kaj Dentler con-

Happy birthday, Michele. That was the occasion of this celebration at the Wine Kitchen’s new outdoor seating area Tuesday afternoon. “After 17 days of rain, this is great,” the birthday girl said. The opportunity for King Street restaurants to enjoy outdoor dining comes after years of planning and sidewalk construction … and several weeks of permit review. Stacy Rice, who works at Wine Kitchen, said the tables are bringing in more diners and easing wait times at night. “It’s also helping Leesburg, because people are hanging out and seeing the businesses and visiting them,” she said. Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

firmed Monday that a group of finalists for the position will soon be brought in for on-site interviews. It will be the town’s first new police chief in almost two decades, following Joseph Price’s retirement in March after 16 years of service. Vanessa Grigsby, a 20-year department veteran, is serving as interim chief. The International Association of Chiefs of Police was contracted by the town to help in the nationwide search to find Price’s replacement. As IACP representatives predicted, the 86 applicants who applied for the job indicated the Leesburg police chief position is indeed an “attractive” one, Dentler said. “We had a very strong response not only in volume but in quality of candidates,” he said. Of the 86 who applied, the group was whittled down to 21 for which

phone interviews were conducted. That group of candidates has been further reduced to a smaller group to be brought in for on-site interviews. Dentler said the goal remains to have a new chief selected, and a public announcement made, by the end of July. He still hopes to have the new chief installed and working by September. “Everything will depend on who the candidate is and where they’re coming from,” he said.

Memorial Day Program Planned at Courthouse The Town of Leesburg will hold its annual Memorial Day Observance on Monday, May 30, on the lawn of the Loudoun County Courthouse beginning at 10 a.m. Veterans, active duty military, their families and members

of the public are invited to the tribute, which will feature patriotic music and a traditional rifle salute. This year’s featured speaker is Lt. General John A. Dubia, U.S. Army (ret.) General Dubia served 14 years of troop assignments and later, as commanding general of the United States Army Field Artillery Center and commandant of the Field Artillery School. The Leesburg resident continues to support veterans, serving on the boards of the Fisher House Foundation based in Rockville, MD, and the Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont. Wreaths will be laid at each of the war memorials in honor of all soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen who served in the defense of the country. Ceremony participants include Leesburg VFW Post #1177, the Ketoctin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Sons of the American Revolution and United Daughters of the Confederacy, Loudoun Chapter #170, and several Boy and Girl Scout Troops. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at the Loudoun County Senior Center, 102 North Street NW.

Outdoor Pool Open Saturday The A.V. Symington Aquatic Center at Ida Lee Park will open for the summer season this Saturday. On Memorial Day weekend, the pool will be open from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 28, Sunday, May 29, and Monday, May 30. Town residents will be admitted at 11 a.m. each day. Through June 14, while school remains in session, the pool will be open on Saturdays and Sundays only from noon to 8 p.m. Beginning on Wednesday, June 15, the outdoor pool will be open daily from noon to 8 p.m., with town residents admitted one hour early. LEESBURG BRIEFS >> 9

<< FROM 8

Movies in the Park Coming Soon The Movies in the Park program is returning to Ida Lee this summer. This free series will feature an evening movie on the third Thursday of each month throughout the summer. Show time will begin at dusk, between 8:15 and 8:45 p.m. Picnics and blankets are encouraged. Pets, glass containers, and alcohol are prohibited. Movie dates are 101 Dalmatians, May 26; Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, June 23; Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, July 28; and The Fox and the Hound, Aug. 25.

Document Shredding June 4 The Public Works Department will host a free community document shredding event on Saturday, June 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Heritage High School, located at 520 Evergreen Mill Road SE. Almost 10,000 pounds of documents are expected to be shredded on site by portable shredding units and then recycled during this event. Residents (no businesses, please) may bring up to three boxes or bags of documents, each equivalent in size to a standard file storage box. If all shredding vehicles fill, the event may close early. For a list of items acceptable for shredding, as well as tips on identity theft protection, go to leesburgva.gov/shredevents.

Mt. Gilead Acres

Leesburg

Raspberry Falls

Selma Estates

Elysian Heights

Hickory Creek

39174 Foxhill Rd, Leesburg

River Creek Country Club

18291 Mullfield Village Ter, Leesburg

42081 Trengwinton Pl, Leesburg

19347 Hundred Acres Ln, Leesburg

13493 Arcadian Dr, Leesburg

41338 Raspberry Dr, Leesburg

Admission passes are on sale, and can be purchased at the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center through Friday, May 27. On Saturday, May 28, the window at the outdoor pool will open at 11 a.m. and passes may be purchased there from then through the end of the season. Go to idalee.org for details on passes, special hours and daily admission rates. The A.V. Symington Aquatic Center is located within Ida Lee Park and features a lazy river, a large slide tower with two body flumes, drop slide, 25-yard lap lane, two gang slides, water pipe fall, crossing feature, dumping buckets, little squirt whale and floating snake, as well as a large “beach” area with bubblers and water fountains, concession stand and grass picnic area. Throughout the summer, a variety of programs and classes will be held at the outdoor pool. A complete list of opportunities is provided in the summer publication of Leesburg at Leisure, available online at leesburgva.gov/ leesburgatleisure. In addition, pool and party package rentals are available. Email outdoorpoolrentals@ leesburgva.gov for more information about rentals. For more information about the A.V. Symington Aquatic Center, call 703-779-5390 or visit www.idalee.org.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

[ BRIEFS ]

10308 Shesue St, Great Falls

Eve Weber Huntland

141 Davis Ave, Leesburg

Northlake

43001 Running Ridge Dr, Leesburg

Courtland Rural Village

40637 Banshee Dr, Leesburg 508 E. Market Street Leesburg, VA 20176 571-218-2503 Eve@SellingLoudoun.com www.SellingLoudoun.com

REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO® , SFR®, SRS®

loudounnow.com

Your Loudoun County Expert

Loudoun Valley Floors...

NOW OPEN! Our Second Location at One Loudoun!

20700 Unit 1 , 56 Loudo un Cou Parkw nty ay

loudounnow.com

Call Us Today and we can help! FREE Estimates

for Cleaning and/or New Installations!

HeroHomes is a Loudoun County based, not-for-proﬁt 501(c)3 foundation, building homes for wounded Veterans.

As a proud supporter of HeroHomes, Loudoun Valley Floors will donate a portion of ﬂooring sale proceeds from June 1 through October 31 to this admirable organization, based right here in Loudoun.

Learn more at herohomesloudoun.org.

20700, Unit 156 Loudoun County Parkway • Ashburn, VA

703.724.4300 • 703.777.8056 129 N. Bailey Lane, Ste C Purcellville, VA 20132

(540) 338-4300

Loudounvalleyﬂoors.com

Carpet, Wood Flooring, Vinyl Plank & Vinyl Tiles

ON SALE NOW!!!

Locally owned and operated Hours: Mon. Thru Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-3pm • Evenings by Appt.

Supervisors to Use Tourism Tax to Fund Loudoun Museum BY RENSS GREENE The plan to save Loudoun Museum moved ahead with one amendment: The $156,000 budgeted for the museum in the county general fund will instead come from tourism tax revenues. The county will take the money from $1.4 million in unallocated Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) funding, money derived by a tax on stays at hotels and bed-and-breakfasts that is earmarked to promote travel and tourism in the county. “We’ve dealt with this every year for several years, and we’ve never made progress,” said Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) during last week’s board meeting. “They’ve missed their plan, we put more money in; they’ve missed their plan, we put more money in.” Some supervisors—and representatives of Visit Loudoun—opposed the use of TOT funds for the museum. “Just because the money’s there doesn’t, in my mind, make it the right use,” Buona said. As a matter of policy, the county reached out to Visit Loudoun about using TOT funds. Visit Loudoun responded that it opposed the plan, arguing that the majority of Loudoun Museum visitors are locals and that there is no marketing plan associated with the funding to attract tourists to the museum. Supervisor Ron A. Meyer Jr. (R-Broad Run) opposed supporting the museum outright, arguing that the county’s role shouldn’t be “doling out cash to charitable funds that aren’t directly necessarily for the benefit of the county.” “If we think it’s our role as a county to be in the museum business, let’s be in the museum business,” Meyer said, suggesting the county might do better

Loudoun Museum Curator Alana Blumenthal

by buying the museum. “If it’s to subsidize a nonprofit that operates one museum in Loudoun, I think that’s a little bit hard for me.” In addition to a $66,000 cash infusion this year, supervisors plan to spend up to $90,000 a year for up to three years for contracted development services to help turn the museum around. Loudoun Museum Board of Trustees President Liz Whiting said the agreement itself and the county’s long-term support may help the museum attract new partnerships and investments. “I think it’s encouraging that people are looking at the needs of the museum in a longer timeframe than from July 1 to June 30,” Whiting said. “I just think that has to help us in terms of reaching out for other sponsors and community.” Next, supervisors will have to agree to a Memorandum of Understanding with the Loudoun Museum. The deal is anticipated to include fundraising benchmarks, requirements that museum board members donate or fundraise, and county control over hiring a third party professional development manager to oversee the museum’s turnaround. rgreene@loudounnow.com

St. Andrew Hosts Music with a Cause Series St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Purcellville is starting a concert series, with the first performance planned Sunday, June 5, at 4 p.m. The Music with a Cause series kicks off with an all-Chopin recital of several of the composer’s studies for solo piano, including the renowned “Revolutionary” Etude. The series is co-founded by a new neighbor—classical pianist Brian Ganz, who recently moved to Purcellville from Annapolis, MD, where he conducted a Fourth Friday concert series at his church. Perhaps more importantly, Ganz married the next door neighbor of St. Andrew pastor, the Rev. David Milam. It was Milam who became fired up about the concert series after hearing Ganz

play at home “and watch his fingers do gymnastics across the keyboard.” Ganz will serve as artistic director of the series, whose aim also is to benefit local charitable organizations. The first concert will benefit Heart Marks Art Therapy, a program that offers assistance through artistic expression to those of all ages experiencing grief and trauma. For information on Heart Marks, go to heartmarksarttherapy.org. Tickets will be $15 at the door or online at bit.ly/1qwsHWo. A sixpack of tickets is available for future concerts ($12 per concert), purchased at the door for $72. For more information, go to standrew-pres.org or call 540-338-4332 during business hours.

BY MARGARET MORTON

Orthodontic Care for Both Adults & Children with a Gentle, Personal Touch

Call today for a Complimentary Consultation

Metal “Traditional” Braces Ceramic “Clear” Braces Invisalign • Self-Ligating Braces Incognito Braces

On-Site Lab: Manufacturing Retainers, Expanders, Mouth Guards and Bleach Trays

19420 Golf Vista Plaza • Ste. 120 • Lansdowne, VA 20176 • 571-206-3764

mmorton@loudounnow.com

WILL / TRUST WORKSHOP Have you updated your Will? Do you even have a Will? Is a Will enough to avoid a lengthy/costly probate? Stop Procrastinating! Wednesday June 8th @ 7pm

Friday June 10th @ 2pm

Saturday June 11th @ 11am

Location Provided by

Lansdowne Private Wealth Management 44084 Riverside Parkway Lansdowne, VA 20176

You and your spouse are invited to attend this informative workshop

Seating is limited: Call (571) 252-3510

loudounnow.com

The Wall Street Journal says, “In this day and age, estate planning is a must. If you own any property, paid for or not, you need a Revocable Living Trust”

Sale endS 6/5/16

• What is right for your family: a “Will” or a “Revocable Living Trust”? • Keep your aﬀairs private and OUT of the PROBATE COURTS • Guardianship for minors or special needs family members • Discover the “dangers of joint tenancy” • If you have a Trust, is it funded and up to date with current law? • The problems with the “Do it Yourself / Internet Wills or Trusts”

Longtime Loudoun County Public Library employee Linda Holtslander is closing out her career on a high note. Holtslander will retire at the end of this week. Library Administration Director Chang Liu echoed remarks she made to staff announcing Holtslander’s retirement after 25 years of service. “It’s impossible to separate Loudoun County Public Library’s success from her work over the years. She has inspired a generation of library staff and built lasting partnerships with people and organizations in the community,” Liu said. Plus, Holtslander has “pioneered a lot of innovative programs that since have become a national model for excellence,” Liu said, adding, “it’s impossible to think of her retiring; we’ll greatly miss her.” Just as she prepares to leave county government, it was announced Holtslander has been awarded the first Friends of Fulbright Finland Alumni Enrichment Award. Holtslander is the programming division manager for Loudoun County Public Library. In 2008, she received a Fulbright Fellowship to Finland. She was stationed in Finland’s capital city, Helsinki, where she conducted extensive research on the Helsinki City Library and its services to youth. Holtslander’s research focused on how that age group was perceived and served by the library through its virtu-

al/interactive technology, collections and programming. She also researched long-term planning for future Helsinki Library services, which will culminate in the opening of the new central Holtslander library in 2018. Holtslander was asked to return as the keynote speaker in the Helsinki City Library’s “Building Bridges over Tomorrow—Focus on Teen Users” conference, a three-day international symposium that brought together representatives from other Nordic libraries who worked to develop innovative solutions to serve youth in the libraries. Holtslander wrote the award-winning American Library Association’s Presidential Citation for Innovative International Library Projects, which was awarded to the Helsinki City Library’s Urban Office. Staff members from Helsinki attended the national ALA conference in 2011. As she takes off Monday for her new home on Peaks Island in Casco Bay, ME, accompanied by her three German Shepherds, Holtslander says she’ll have plenty to do in retirement, including her ongoing Fulbright work and volunteering as a reading specialist for the Peaks Island library.

reating Beautiful Sm C y l g n i iles C ar

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Retiring Loudoun Librarian Receives Fulbright Award

loudounnow.com

[ PUBLIC SAFETY ]

Sheriff Expands Opiate Overdose Antidote Training More than 160 Loudoun County deputies are now trained to administer the potentially life-saving drug naloxone to help counteract the effects of an opioid in an overdose. Additional patrol deputies were trained last week to administer the drug as part of a pilot project through Purdue Pharma—which manufactures and markets the pain killer OxyContin—and the National Sheriffs’ Association. The project trains deputies how to use the overdose antidote and provides the drug to the sheriff ’s office through a $350,000 grant. Nationally, deaths from opioid overdoses have risen significantly since 2012. This year alone, the Loudoun Sheriff ’s Office had responded to 46 suspected opioid overdoses—including 13 fatalities, most believed to be heroin-related. In Loudoun, investigators say four out of five heroin users began their addiction with prescription opioids like OxyContin and oxycodone before moving to the cheaper, more readily available street drug. “This addiction often starts from a medicine cabinet and not from a street corner,” Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman stated while announcing the expanded naloxone initiative. “Unfortunately, it often ends up on the street corner.” Distributors of heroin, in most cases are the users themselves, typically travel to Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, and West Virginia, to acquire the drug, and then return to Loudoun to provide a small group. “As the heroin is coming from outside of Loudoun, we continue to work with the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal partners to target regional sources. We also continue collaborative efforts with our state and local counterparts through street level enforcement. In addition, we are working with legislators, educators and treatment specialists to help save lives,” Chapman stated. In response to the increase in opiate overdoses nationwide, law enforcement agencies across the country have begun equipping their personnel with nasal naloxone (NARCAN). Last week, 133 Loudoun deputies were trained by representatives from Diamond Pharmacy Services to utilize naloxone. That comes after patrol deputies assigned to the Western Loudoun Station were trained and equipped with the drug last December as part of a local pilot program. The deputies were trained by members of the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue System, under the authority of Operational Medical Director Dr. John Morgan, In February, two Loudoun deputies were recognized after the first use of the drug to help revive a man suffering an apparent heroin overdose.

Rescue Squad’s Open House Celebrates EMS Week Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

David Galen, public information officer with the Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad, tests 11-year-old Angel’s vital signs during an open house held Saturday at the station on Catoctin Circle in Leesburg. The event invited kids, and their parents, to check out the inside of fire engines, ambulances and other emergency vehicles. They also got a chance to see how the station responds to a real call for help. About an hour in to the open house, rescue workers jumped into a squad truck to respond to a report of a man experiencing cardiac arrest.

[ CRIME BRIEFS ] Castillo Murder Trial Enters Second Week After three days of jury selection, the murder trial of Braulio M. Castillo finally moved to the evidence phase Friday morning. Over the next two weeks, 18 jurors will hear testimony from more Castillo than 50 witnesses. Then 12 will be selected by lottery to decide whether the evidence shows beyond a reasonable doubt that the businessman killed his estranged wife in her home two years ago. If Castillo is found guilty, the jury will then recommend a sentence that could range from 20 years to life in prison. The trial is scheduled to run through June 10. The case began when Michelle Castillo’s body was found hanging in a basement bathroom in her Belmont Station home March 20, 2014. Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office investigators say Castillo entered her home, killed Michelle during a struggle in her bedroom while their children slept in rooms down the hall and then staged a scene to make it appear she hanged herself in a basement bathroom. Castillo, who pleaded not guilty, also is charged with breaking and entering with the intent to commit murder, and with violation of a protective order.

Forde Attorneys to Argue Heat of Passion in Defense A second murder trial opened in Loudoun County Circuit Court on

Monday. In the courtroom adjacent to the more publicized trial of Braulio M. Castillo, Kevin N. Forde also faces a charge of first-degree murder. The Baltimore man shot his wife in the head after they parked on Woolsthorpe Drive, a cul-de-sac along Rt. 15 near Lucketts on March 11, 2014. Ruby C. Forde was pronounced dead at the scene. It was her 55 birthday. Forde waived his right to a jury trial and the case is being heard by Circuit Court Judge Jeanette Irby. During opening arguments on Monday morning, county prosecutors said Forde planned Forde the shooting, becoming upset after being told a day earlier about his wife’s plans to file for a marital separation and to travel with her family to visit other family members in Jamaica. He particularly sought to talk her out of leaving the country, the attorneys said. On the day of the shooting, Forde was driving her to Loudoun, but it was not clear whether she would go to Dulles Airport, or had abandoned her travel plans and instead dropped off items to be carried home to family members with her sister in Ashburn. They never arrived in either place. The defense attorneys said they would not dispute that Forde shot and killed his wife; however, they said he should be charged with the lesser crime of manslaughter—resulting from emotional excitement or impulsive actions, rather than premeditated planning. If found guilty of first-degree mur-

der, Forde faces a sentence of 20 years to life in prison. The sentence for a manslaughter conviction is up to 10 years in prison. The trial was scheduled to conclude by Friday.

Sheriff’s Office: Lock It Up The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office this week sent a reminder for residents to secure their vehicles and remove valuable items after a rash of larcenies from vehicles in the Sterling and Ashburn areas. In the recent cases, thieves targeted vehicles on Weatherburn Terrace, Wake Terrace, Warburton Bay Square, Woodboro Terrace, Woolcott Square, Sound Square and Willoughby Square in Sterling. On Saturday, a juvenile and an adult male were apprehended after they were found to be entering unlocked cars in the area of Mandalay Court in Ashburn. In all of the recent cases, the vehicles were entered without any signs of force or physical damage and were believed to have been left unlocked. In addition to locking their doors, residents should remove all valuables and items such as garage door openers, or put the items out of sight—inside a lockable glove box or trunk. Vehicles with integrated garage door openers should be parked inside the garage. The Crime Prevention Unit also encourages residents to register valuable items with the manufacturer and record the make, model and serial numbers through Operation Inventory, a prevention-based program intended to help curb thefts. The information can help law enforcement to recover stolen property.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

[ OUR TOWNS ]

loudounnow.com

Lovettsville Makes Splash for Charity with Mayfest Dunk Tank

PROVIDING CLEANING SERVICES for carpet, rugs, upholstery and hard surfaces on site or at our in plant facility

Loudoun Carpet Care™ understands the importance of providing consistent, reliable personal service to our clients, both returning and new. Our pledge is to offer honest advice about all of the services we offer, and to complete each job the best of our ability.

One of the best loved traditions at Lovettsville’s annual Mayfest celebration is the dunk tank which allows residents to dunk their friends and neighbors while supporting their favorite nonprofits. Past participants have included Mayor Bobby Zoldos, popular teachers and other community leaders. This year’s event gets rolling with Chris Hornbaker supporting the StillBrave Childhood Cancer Foundation from 11 a.m. to noon. Loudoun Now contributor Jan Mercker takes the plunge for Hillsboro Charter Academy from noon to 1 p.m. From 1 to 2 p.m., Christine Eads raises funds for the Duffy House, which provides support for women and children who have survived sexual assault and domestic abuse. Reigning Oktoberfest King David Willard jumps in for Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness from 2 to 3 p.m., and his frequent partner in mischief Bill Hazen gets wet for Operation Second Chance, serving wounded and ill combat veterans, from 3 to 4 p.m. The total immersion fun wraps up with Lovettsville Elementary School reading specialist Theresa Rinehart making a splash for the school’s PTO book drive from 4 to 5 p.m. The Mayfest Committee has worked to provide fun for all from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Town Green, including games, food and live entertainment. Kids can enjoy rock climbing, a moon bounce and pony rides; the teens area has a photo booth, a henna tattoo artist, and a space where enthusiasts can take apart a computer; teams are signing up for the town’s annual cornhole tournament, and competitors also are needed for the water balloon toss, a three-

Contributed

Lovettsville Mayor Bobby Zoldos takes the plunge in the dunk tank during a previous Mayfest celebration. On Saturday, a new roster of victims will make a splash for favorite nonprofits.

legged race and the pie-eating contest. There will be 100 artisan and food vendors, plus ample beer and wine. Residents are asked to come with donations to for the Lovettsville Food Pantry. Artists can try their hand a decorating a huge butterfly—the official mascot of Mayfest. Another kind of excitement will be provided at Mayfest, with public polling to elicit residents’ views on which “face” to put on the clock tower at the new Town Square retail center. Mayfest attendees are invited to give their choice at the Info Tent, where the options will be displayed, voting will continue online the following week at lovettsvilleva.gov and at the first Concert on the Green performance for June 4. For more information on Mayfest activities, go to lovettsvillevamayfest. com.

[ TOWN NOTES ] Traffic-Calming Project Progress Means More Detours

129 N. Bailey Lane, Ste C Purcellville, VA 20132

(540) 338-4300

20700, Unit 156 Loudoun County Parkway Ashburn, VA

703.724.4300 703.777.8056

Loudounvalleyﬂoors.com

As the Rt. 50 Traffic-Calming Project enters the second phase in Middleburg, direct access to Washington Street from Madison and Pendleton streets will be closed for about eight weeks. Town Administrator Martha Mason Semmes said work at the west end of town is nearly complete, with street trees and lights yet to come. “They’ve now shifted east, and this is big, because the intersections affect the two main entrances to the [Salamander] resort, and access to Hill School and the Middleburg Charter School,” she said. Traffic will be detoured along Marshall and Federal streets that are parallel to Washington Street. The project’s final section will comprise the Liberty, Hamilton and J street intersections. Semmes said the Town Council has authorized free parking both in town lots and on the street during the work, which should be completed by October. Pedestrian access to businesses in

the area will not be affected.

MHAA Offers Tour of Historic Sunny Bank The Mosby Heritage Area Association will conduct a tour of the rarely open-to-the-public antebellum hunt country home Sunny Bank on Sunday, June 12. At the time of the Civil War, Sunny Bank was home to Catherine Broun, who wrote a diary about her experiences during the war. Broun’s diary has been edited into a book, “Dark Days in Our Beloved Country,” by Lee Lawrence, who will speak at the church. Also on the tour is a visit to the barn where Traveller, later owned by Gen. Robert E. Lee, spent some time. The event will start at 2 p.m. at Middleburg Methodist Church, where Broun worshipped. Tickets, which must be purchased in advance, are $30 for MHAA members or $40 for non-members. Call 540687-6681 or go to mosbyheritagearea.org.

Leesburg Office leeSburg neW

$395,000 ng!

liSti

Sterling neW

$434,900 ng!

liSti

Hamilton Office

Front royal neW

$274,900

ng!

liSti

PurCellville neW

$549,900

leeSburg

$186,500

berryville

$349,900

PriCe

Fenced lot backing to open space with great views! HW floors, tiled kitchen with granite counters and SS appliances.

Beautiful 3 year old rambler on nearly an acre with granite kitchen counters, HW flooring and spacious bedrooms.

Hardwood on main level, gourmet kitchen & butler’s pantry. Fin lower level walks out. Back yard w/paver patio. Move-in ready!

Excellent location for commuter. NEW carpet on first floor, deck off the back. Great first time buyer or investor opportunity!

Renovated throughout. Easy access to Rt. 7. Kitchen has handcrafted cherry cabinets & upgraded SS app. Mail level bedroom/office.

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9655230

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9662850

www.MrisHomes.com/WR9661957

www. MrisHomes.com/LO9639329

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9656797

www. MrisHomes.com/CL9651100

near Wintergreen $319,999

aShburn

Sterling

PurCellville $430,000

berryville

leeSburg

Completely renovated! Open floor plan, kitchen w/granite counters. Custom tile BR, HW floors. Backs to W&OD trail.

Welcome Home to your 9 acres of private haven! Shows like new! Beautifully maintained custom built home!

River and community views from 2 enclosed porches. 3 bedrooms & 3 baths. Marble foyer, hallway & baths, granite countertops!

neW

$325,000

$499,750

$625,000

PriCe

4 bed Arts and Crafts home near Wintergreen Resort on 5+ acres woods and open. New paint and hw floors. www.MrisHomes.com/NL9564133

hamilton

$597,900

2 bedroom, 2 bath penthouse condo w/vaulted ceilings w/ upgrades including a remodeled kit w/granite counters.

Lovely and bright 3 level townhouse with a one garage and a spacious floor plan with 2 master suites.

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9643724

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9644568

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9646410

www.MrisHomes.com/CL9660066

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9654347

PurCellville

round hill

PurCellville $699,000

PurCellville $899,900

PurCellville

$675,000

$700,000

$1,399,000

Ready to move into this beautifully restored rambler with nearly 2700 sqft on 3 private acres.

New energy efficient craftsman inspired 4 bed, 4.5 bath home designed for today’s living on 3.5 acres with a custom kitchen.

Picturesque farmette on 10 acres with over 2700 ft of new 4 board fence and a beautifully updated 4 bedroom 3.5 home.

Granite, hardwoods, stone fireplace, fully finished basement, pool, 2 fenced paddocks.

Historic “Locust Grove” c.1817, 3 Acres. Remodeled in 2009, kit has custom cabinetry & farm sink. 3 Fin. levels.

Private lot! Coffered ceilings, upgraded mouldings, master w/ sitting room & spa quality bath, fully fin lower level.

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9658534

www. MrisHomes.com/LO9620107

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9650411

www. MrisHomes.com/LO8748867

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9644210

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9634606

aShburn

Creighton FarmS $924,500

berryville

WinCheSter

linden

3 yr old Addison on one of the finest lots in the Huntleigh at the award winning Jack Nicklaus golf course community.

Level 1.25 acre building lot, installed well, electric & small garage/strage shed already there. Approved 4BR drainfield site.

Subject to final subdivision. New parcel will contain 2.5+/acres. M-1 Zoning allows light industrial uses. Convenient loc.

195 acres on the Blueridge Mnts. Easily dividable into 11 parcels. Across from G.W. Thompson wildlife management area.

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9010018

www.MrisHomes.com/CL8578476

www.MrisHomes.com/FV9650709

www.MrisHomes.com/WR8725467

$724,990

$845,000

$125,000

$250,000

$749,900

Work, live and play at ONE LOUDOUN! Home features upgraded kitchen and bathrooms w/granite counters.

Amazing views! Luxurious 6 bed, 4.5 bath stone front home loaded with upgrades and large backyard.

www.MrisHomes.com/LO9639354

www. MrisHomes.com/LO9601862

PenFedRealty.com/Offices/ 13835/Leesburg

HAMILTON 540.338.4171

PenFedRealty.com/Offices/ 13828/Hamilton

© 2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

loudounnow.com

LEESBURG 703.777.8200

need photo

Walking distance to downtown Leesburg with easy commuting access, front porch, large rear deck and great backyard.

$233,000

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Two Great Offices, Two Convenient Locations

[ E D U C AT I O N ]

The Scholar and The Magistra

loudounnow.com

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Michael Krepich, a 36-year Latin teacher, leads a class at Loudoun Valley High School on Monday. The classical language is seeing a major revival among Loudoun public middle and high school students.

THE UNDEAD LANGUAGE Latin is Hot in Loudoun Schools BY JAN MERCKER

all it the “Percy Jackson” effect. Latin in Loudoun’s public middle and high schools is alive and thriving. With an engaging curriculum, a focus on culture and mythology, and a cadre of nearly 30 enthusiastic (and sometimes quirky) teachers around the county, the program is drawing students from all walks of life and academic backgrounds. Many teachers chalk up the newfound interest, in part, to popular book series like “Percy Jackson” and “Harry Potter.” “Kids don’t just take Latin. They take it because something has sparked their interest. And then my job is to keep their interest piqued,” said Laura Newell, Latin teacher at Stone Bridge High School. “It’s my job to help them realize that it’s completely undead. That it’s alive and very much a part of their everyday life if they start to learn where to look for it.” For decades in Loudoun, Latin was at a disadvantage in the friendly competition for students within the county’s world languages program. For years, only French and Spanish were offered in middle schools, giving students a jumpstart in those languages. But changes to the foreign language program in 2007 gave students a chance to start a foreign language in seventh grade, instead of eighth, and brought Latin to all of the county’s middle schools, allowing students to pursue a six-year Latin program and more fully prepare for the Advanced Placement exam.

The Latin Omnibus Michael Krepich, a 36-year Latin

teacher in Loudoun, is known as the pater familias of the county’s Latin program. He started teaching at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville in 1980, and his wife, Lynn, has been a beloved Latin teacher at Loudoun County High School in Leesburg since 1981. “Across the board we are tending to attract what my wife likes to call the Roman Forum. We get students of all stripes—from the kids at the top to students who struggle in school, but who are willing to work hard to learn a foreign language,” Michael Krepich said. “We’ve learned that we need to keep a wide variety of kids interested in our program, not only to build, but to maintain and grow. … We want everybody on the Latin omnibus. Latin is for everyone.” Krepich said some Latin students are already thinking about careers in medicine or law and are focused on boosting SAT scores, but others are driven by a passion for history and mythology. Freedom High School’s Damian Tremblay, who runs the biggest Latin program in the county, agrees. Freedom, and its feeder J. Michael Lunsford Middle School, in South Riding are served by one part-time and three full-time Latin teachers: the school’s proximity to the Rt. 28 technology corridor, highly educated parents and high-achieving students make Latin a popular choice. “A lot of my students are interested in looking at technical university programs or scientific university programs and so they’re enrolled in Latin but they have very sophisticated backgrounds in other areas as well,” Tremblay said. “Another group of students come into Latin having read ‘Harry Potter’ and having read the Rick Riordan ‘Percy

Jackson’ novels. On some level there’s a fascination with vocabulary. On another level, students are interested in castles and pyramids and temples and armies of the ancient world.”

Reading—And Speaking Michelle Lindo, Latin teacher at Briar Woods High School in Ashburn, said the Cambridge Latin Course reading-based curriculum used by the county is a big part of the draw. The program starts students with basic stories about a family in Pompeii just before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and follows the adventures of a son who survives the eruption all the way through the students’ fourth year. The vocabulary and grammar get increasingly complex, while the stories engage students with humor and drama. “It’s one big huge soap opera,” Lindo said with a laugh. “Kids that don’t go on [to higher level classes] are like ‘Can you tell me what happens in the next book?’” For students who start early and opt to go all the way, Latin 5 is literature-focused, and Latin 6 follows the advanced placement syllabus, with a focus on Virgil’s “Aeneid” and Julius Caesar’s “Gallic Wars.” But there is room for students to go beyond grammar and literature. In Steven Boscovitch’s classroom at Mercer Middle School in Aldie, the focus is on getting students to speak and listen to Latin, as well as learning grammar. Boscovitch—a former IT professional who turned his passion for ancient history into a career teaching Latin—engages students with storytelling in the classical language. “Recently, there’s been a movement within the Latin community nationally to bring spoken Latin into the class LATIN >> 20

When Katerina Banks was a Percy Jackson-loving sixth grader at Seneca Ridge Middle School, teacher Andrea Weiskopf visited one of her classes to make the case for seventh grade Latin. Weiskopf, known by her students as magistra (or teacher), explained how Latin helps with understanding English grammar and vocabulary, along with important elements of western culture. She also mentioned Latin’s influence on J.K. Rowling, author of the “Harry Potter” series, who used Latin in many of the spells and character names in her books. “I was basically sold after that,” Banks said. “Latin represented something new and different, which I’ve always found really interesting—taking interest in learning new things that are different or unusual compared to what most of my peers are doing.” Now Banks is a senior at Dominion High School, with a passion for spoken Latin—and the works of Caesar and Virgil under her belt. Banks’ current Latin teacher, Caitlin Campbell, says she’s gone above and beyond in her pursuit of a mastery of the oral language in addition to her rigorous curriculum. Banks took the Advanced Placement test earlier this month and will get her results this summer. Banks (who is also a classically trained violinist) will study classics and music at the University of Kentucky in the fall. The university’s focus on fluent speaking, reading and writing of Latin was a big draw. Last summer, Banks was one of a handful of high school students participating in a weeklong spoken Latin immersion program at UK (attended mostly by undergrads, graduate students and professors). “It was one the greatest experiences I’ve had in all of my classical education,” Banks said. She’s considering a career as a professor or teacher—in Latin, of course. — Jan Mercker

Credit Jessica Marsaw

After getting hooked on Latin in middle school, Dominion High School senior Katerina Banks has pursued fluency in spoken Latin. She’ll study classics at the University of Kentucky in the fall.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

loudounnow.com

loudounnow.com

[ SCHOOL NOTES ]

NOVA Graphics

From left, Northern Virginia Community College students Nooshin Bashiri, Manisha Khatri, Shahrozia Imtiaz and Derrick Arthur-Cudjoe hear the news that they won the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarships.

NVCC Students Win Cooke Scholarships Four 2016 Northern Virginia Community College graduates have been awarded the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The winners are Shahrozia Imtiaz from NVCC’s Loudoun campus, Derrick Arthur-Cudjoe from the Alexandria campus, Nooshin Bashiri from the Annandale campus, and Manisha Khatri from the Woodbridge campus. The scholarship provides up to $40,000 per year for tuition, books, living expenses and required fees for the final two to three years necessary to earn a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. Shahrozia plans to pursue a doctorate in either molecular biology or neuroscience at either University of Virginia or Georgetown University. The winners, who were selected from 2,600 applications submitted from 1,200 community colleges nationwide, demonstrated financial need and hold excellent records of academic achievement, as evidenced by their grades, leadership skills, awards, extraordinary service to others and perseverance in the face of adversity. The Lansdowne-based Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is the largest private scholarship in the nation for students transferring from twoyear community colleges to fouryear institutions that award bachelor’s degrees.

Eight-Week Exhibit Showcases Sterling Students’ Art The work of Park View High School students will be on display at the Loudoun County Government Center through July 8. The art exhibit, one of the first of its kind at the County Government Center, is organized with the help of the Loudoun County Art Advisory Committee and Park View High School Fine Arts Boosters. The artwork was unveiled during

Loudoun County Government

Park View High School student Kaleb Morris poses with Joan Kowalski, Sterling representative on the Loudoun Art Advisory Board, during the art exhibit’s May 16 reception.

a reception and ceremony May 16. Sterling District Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D) said the artwork includes “varied and exquisitely complicated pieces” from 18 budding artists, ranging from boldly toned self portraits to shadowy black and white stacked compositions of everyday life. Visit the exhibit during business hours at the County Government Center, 1 Harrison St. SE in Leesburg.

Seminar: Building Emotional Intelligence Loudoun County Parents of Gifted Students invites parents to attend a panel discussion called, “Coaching Your Children to Success: Building Emotional Intelligence (EQ).” The event takes place from 6:308:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2, at 43629 Greenway Corporate Drive in Ashburn. Panelists will coach parents on helping children develop greater self-awareness and emotional self-regulation. RSVP to chris@locopogs.org. Learn more about the group at locopogs.org.

CAMPUS Seniors Celebrated rgreene@loudounnow.com

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Former NFL defensive back and entrepreneur Jason Belser speaks to a sea of CAMPUS students in robes and mortarboards.

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Jennifer Davila gets a kiss from her sisters after the ceremony.

Call today for an additional 5% off!

CAMPUS honored 103 graduating seniors at Loudoun County schools at a ceremony last week. The program, formally called College Achievement Minority Program for Unique Students, provides academic and college preparation support for students from low income families or single-parent families, those who would be the first in their family to graduate from college, or come from a historically underrepresented population in education. Students in the program attend CAMPUS meetings and classes during the school day and CAMPUS activities, including visits to colleges and universities, throughout the year. Superintendent Dr. Eric Williams, who spoke during the May 17 ceremony, said the program encourages stu-

dents to pursue success. “Through your participation in CAMPUS, you have demonstrated that you believe in both dreaming and planning,” Williams said. CAMPUS students, dressed in their graduation robes and mortarboards, heard from former NFL defensive back and business owner Jason Belser. He said the program is about creating strong, resilient students who go on to be stable and self-reliant. “Most importantly, I want you to remember that our dreams can become a reality,” Belser said. “Don’t give up on them. Follow the plan. Because if you don’t, someone else is dreaming, and they may share the same dream that you have.” CAMPUS seniors were presented with a certificate of accomplishment, a yellow rose, and an honor cord to wear at graduation.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

BY RENSS GREENE

loudounnow.com

loudounnow.com

Latin

<< FROM 16

like our modern language teachers do with their languages, doing a lot more speaking, interacting in the language and taking a communicative approach rather than just the grammar and translation,” Boscovitch said. Every teacher has a different style, Krepich said, and that’s one thing that makes Loudoun’s program so strong. With 28 teachers (and one or two more to be added next year), Krepich said he often finds at conferences that Loudoun is the envy of the public school Latin teaching scene. “I believe we have the strongest Latin program in the United States,” Krepich said.

Not Your Grandmother’s Latin Class 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

Session II Dates: July 20-22 Time: 9:30am-12:00pm Ages: 7-12 Cost: $79 Haske Field, Purcellville

In Andrea Weiskopf ’s Latin 1 class at River Bend Middle School in Sterling last week, students were out of their seats and engaged in a friendly but fierce grammar competition, followed by an activity working in teams to identify the Latin roots of English vocabulary and conjugate the Latin verb “ire” (to go). “This is not your grandmother’s Latin class,” Weiskopf said. “Latin class is

full of grammar, yes, but it is also full of mythology, Roman culture, and lots of bad jokes and puns.” Weiskopf, who divides her time between River Bend and Seneca Ridge Middle School, is known for her dynamic style and for using technology and online games and quizzes to engage in friendly competition. But it’s not all fun and games—Weiskopf encourages her students to take national tests like National Latin Exam, the National Mythology Exam, and contests offered by the Classical Association of Virginia. Her seventh grade students say there were a number of factors that appealed to them when signing up last year, from Weiskopf ’s personal style to learning about Roman culture to expanding their English vocabulary. “I think it helps with a lot of other subjects with the derivatives and everything else. … In English, we’re doing a lot of vocabulary words and a lot of Latin roots have shown up in them,” student Emma Greenman said. “People will say Latin is a dead language, and I adamantly say no, it’s not,” said Emma’s classmate Janika Perezous, to which Emma added, “It’s just Roman around.” jmercker@loudounnow.com

Gear Up To Save Big! KOMMANDER • 21-25 Gross HP, Gasoline, Air-Cooled V-Twin Engine Available • 42”-54” Pro Commercial Mower Deck • Hydro-Gear™ Transmission • 4 Year/300 Hour Factory Warranty

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

$0 DOWn, 0% A.P.R. FINANCING FOR UP TO 60 MONTHS ON SELECT NEW KUBOTAS!

Michael Krepich, who leads a Latin class at Loudoun Valley High School, says the classical language is for everyone.

Cochran Family Dental

Cochran Dental CochranFamily Family Dental Welcoming Welcomingallallnew newpatients! patients!

Z700

May 26 – June 1, 2016

• 22.5–25.5 Gross HP, V-Twin Gas Engine • 48”, 54” or 60” Commercial Deck • Dual Parker Torqpact™ Transmission

RTV-X900

Cochran Family Dental Welcoming all new patients! BX2670 SVL75 Welcoming all new patients!

• 21.6 Gross HP, 3-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine • Variable Hydro Transmission (VHT-X)

• 25.5 Gross HP, 3-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine • 4WD with Rear Differential Lock Standard

• 74.3 Gross HP, 4-Cylinder Kubota Turbocharged Diesel Engine • Powerful Breakout Force

Dr. Brian Cochran and his staff at Conveniently located Cochran Family Dental are in The Village of Leesburg committed to providing a comprehensive dental office 1503 Dodona Terrace #210 with a caring and gentle style that will serve most all of Leesburg, VA 20175 Dr. Brian Cochran and his staff at your family’s dental needs under one roof. Insurance 703-771-9034 Cochran Family Dental are budget wise payment options. Dr. friendly office offering Cochran has provided trusted dental care to the office citizens committed to providing a comprehensive dental of Loudoun for 13 years. HOURS: WHITENING with a caring and gentle style that willWHITENING serve mostSPECIAL all of Conveniently located FREE Teeth Whitening Kit Mon. & Wed.: 8amin- 6pm SPECIAL withInsurance every scheduled The Village Leesburg facing your family’s dental under oneUseroof. Tues. needs - at Thurs.: 7am - 4pm your benefits or before the end cleaning procedure. Wegmans and 1503 Dodona Terrace Route 7 between of the year and receive8/31/16. a FREE Fri.: 8am 1pm Offer Expires LA Fitness friendly office offering budget wise payment options. Teeth Whitening Kit with everyDr. Suite 210 Please present coupon to Sat.: 8am 1pm (once/month) Mon & -Wed: 8-6pm scheduled cleaning or procedure. Leesburg, VA 20175 receive offer. Not to be Cochran has provided trusted dental care tothe the citizens TuesEmergency & Thurs: 7-4pm Service Offer Expires January 1, 2016. 24hr

Dr. Brian Cochran and his staff at Cochran Family Dental are BROWNING EQUIPMENT, INC. committed to providing a comprehensive dental office 800 East Main St. • Purcellville, VA (540)338-7123 • www.browningequipment.com with a caring and gentle style that will serve most all of your family’s dental needs under one roof. Insurance 703-771-9034 of Loudoun for 13 years. friendly office offering budget wise payment options. Dr. WHITENING Visit ourwebsite: website at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com Visit our TheLeesburgVADentist.com Conveniently located in SPECIAL The Village at Leesburgdental facing Cochran has provided trusted care to the Use your benefits beforecitizens the end Route 7 between Wegmans and 1503 Dodona Terrace of the year and receive a FREE LA Fitness Teeth Whitening Kit with every of Loudoun for 13 years.

* $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of new Kubota ZP, BX, B, L, (excluding L39/L45), MX, M5660/6060/7060, M5, M6, RB, DMC, DM, RA, & TE, K008, KX, U, R, SVL, SL (SSV) & TLB (excluding L39/L45/M59) Series Equipment is available to qualified purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 6/30/2016. Example: A 60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. 0% A.P.R. and low rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 6/30/2016. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information.Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. For complete warranty, safety and product information, please refer to the operator’s manual or consult your Kubota dealer. K1073-01-131866-2

Fri: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) 24hr Emergency Service

Please present coupon to w/any receive the offer. combined other Not to be combined with any other offer.

Salamander’s Sheila Johnson Tells Biz Leaders to Have Patience BY DANIELLE NADLER

dnadler@loudounnow.com

Shawn Ouellette/Loudoun Now

Sheila Johnson, owner of Salamander Resort & Spa and co-founder of Black Entertainment Television, addressed a full house at the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s Lessons in Leadership luncheon Thursday, May 19.

Strategic patience. That’s what Sheila Johnson says transformed a little idea into a successful resort enterprise. The owner of Salamander Resort & Spa and co-founder of Black Entertainment Television told hundreds of business leaders packed into a ballroom at the resort Thursday, May 19, that it takes those two little words to make a business work. “Patience isn’t the same as paralysis,” she stressed. “You need to persist, preserve and never give up on your vision.” Johnson was the keynote speaker at the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s Lessons in Leadership luncheon, one of several events planned to mark Loudoun’s Small Business Week. Johnson, a not-so-small business owner, said the same strategies apply to every entrepreneur no matter the size of the company. It takes passion and a bit of faith, she said. “You have to take risks—that’s what business leaders are built for.” Her first business in Middleburg started shortly after she moved to the western Loudoun town 20 years ago. She decided to purchase a gun shop on West Washington Street. “Because ev-

ery time I drove into town there was a confederate flag there, and I didn’t like that,” she said, prompting a few snickers from audience members. “I bought the gun shop and turned it into a wonderful little market,” called Market Salamander. In 2001, she purchased the 340-acre property just north of downtown Middleburg on which the resort now sits. It took years of public hearings and red tape to get approval to build the 168-room facility, and when Johnson and her staff were finally prepping for opening in 2010, the recession hit. “Money was tight, consumer spending was down and the economy was marked by uncertainly,” she said. “Spa became a four letter word. It was like the rug had been pulled out from under me.” She hit pause on the project, and instead put her senior staff members to work on developing a management services program to reposition underperforming resorts. She and her team helped turn around three resorts in Florida that had been hit hard by the economic downturn. Then in 2013, she opened Salamander Resort & Spa, which Johnson referred to as the crown jewel of her business. “My commitment to this venture has

never wavered because for me,” Johnson said, “It’s not just about business, it’s personal. There is a love that I have for every detail of this property.” Middleburg Mayor Betsy Davis recently told Johnson that the resort helped grow the town’s tax base and annual budget, and has also created hundreds of jobs for people who live in and near the town. Last year, the property hosted 31 weddings, and this year has 65 on the calendar.

Speaking to the decision to delay the resort’s opening, Johnson said she was tempted to follow her fear of failing and scrap the idea all together. “But I kept on,” she said. “I wasn’t going to let a small obstacle like a global recession to stand in my way.” “Strategic patience has paid off,” Johnson added, noting that she wants Middleburg and surrounding communities to share in Salamander’s success. “I am committed to this place for the long term.”

21 May 26 – June 1, 2016

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

[BIZ]

loudounnow.com

loudounnow.com

SALE 25% off and free installation

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Jared Melvin, winner of the George C. Marshall Award, approaches the stage at the Leesburg Business Appreciation Awards.

Loudoun Youth’s Melvin Named George C. Marshall Award Winner BY RENSS GREENE

The most awarded, highest rated, local closet company. Everything in its place. Perfectly.

703-372-9062 closetamerica.com Offer expires 5/31/16. $2000 purchase required to receive offer. Not valid with any other promotions or prior sales. Restrictions apply. MHIC #127711, VA #2705158787, DC Perm #8236

The Leesburg Town Council and Leesburg Economic Development Commission recognized outstanding Leesburg businesses and individuals at the 15th Annual Business Appreciation Awards during a ceremony at the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center on May 18. “Small business is the foundation of the Leesburg community, and tonight we are here to celebrate your stories and your successes,” Leesburg Mayor Dave Butler said. Loudoun Youth leader Jared Melvin was given the George C. Marshall Award, which recognizes an individual who has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to the community above and beyond business. “Positive changes in the community begin with developing young leaders, and Jared Melvin leads that charge,” said Pat Daly, president and CEO of the George C. Marshall International Center. Melvin and Loudoun Youth also won honorable mention for the Community Steward Award. Honorable mention for the Marshall award went to IT entrepreneur Ara Bagdasarian. “He has boundless energy, phenomenal focus and the vision of a superhero,” Daly said of Bagdasarian. Loudoun Now was given the New Business Award, which recognizes a

new business “that is respectful of Leesburg’s past and represents the best of the town’s future.” “Social media, community events, business events, and government meetings are covered by eight people focused on a high level of responsiveness, community awareness and accuracy,” EDC Chairwoman Gwen Pangle said.

Other award winners were: • Rising Star: Bank of Clarke County • Veterans Affairs: Hire Our Heroes • Public Art: Friends of Leesburg Public Art • Innovation: Raj Kalra, Mover Junction • Home-based Business: Kristi and Sean Quill, Barn Owl Primitives • Heritage Award: Michael O’Connor, Kingdom Enterprises • Environmental: Leesburg Garden Club • Community Steward: Iris Kotmel • Ambassador: Paige Buscema, Eyetopia The Nomination Review Committee was Pat Daly, Marshall House; Greg Harp, Visit Loudoun; Jennifer Montgomery, Interfaith Relief; Roger Maddox; Mindy Whang, China King; and Rusty Foster, Bow Tie Strategies. rgreene@loudounnow.com

Curran Joins Middelburg Real Estate

Dirt Farm Brewery Owner Reelected to Leadership Post

Mary Curran is the newest addition to the roster of Realtors at Middleburg Real Estate/ Atoka Properties. After a successful career making and training fox- Curran hunters, Curran is focusing on real estate. She can be reached at mary.curran@atokaproperties.com or 540454-2200.

Janell Zurschmeide, owner of Dirt Farm Brewery near Bluemont, has been re-elected to co-chair the Farm Brewery Committee of the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild. Zurschmeide Dirt Farm Brewery was one of the first breweries in Loudoun to open under the state definition for a farm brewery. Her family’s agri-tourism offerings also include Bluemont Winery and Great Country Farms.

Habitat Welcomes New Board Members

Ringing in Hope Salutes Troops Runners will be up early on Memorial Day to help raise donations for the Boulder Crest Retreat for wounded warriors near Bluemont. It will be the third year of One Loudoun’s Ringing in Hope: A Salute to Our Troops. The event includes 5K and10K races, and 1K fun run/walk. The 5K race kicks off at 8 am, fol-

Purcellville, assisted with the auction on walk day, and assembled MADD ribbons. She volunteered a total of 200 hours which were reported to the Presidential Award Committee. Tharun Saravanan raised the most money for the MADD Loudoun Walk—$323. He performed 50 hours of community service for his school award by April 30 and earned an additional five hours for raising money for the walk. The River Bend Middle School student named his walk team the Handy Helpers.

MADD Loudoun Honors Three

Community Cat Coalition Wins Ayrshire Award

Three area teens earned special recognition for their efforts to fight drunken driving during MADD Loudoun’s fundraiser at Park View High School on Saturday. Cody Kim was named the champion ribbon assembler for creating 11,000 ribbons to hand out during 2015. The Stone Bridge High School student also earned 100 hours of community service that were reported to the Presidential Award Committee. Sophie Christian was named outstanding teen volunteer. She performed the most community service hours for MADD Loudoun during the school year. The Woodgrove High School student updated the MADD mailing database, assembled letters for annual walk business mailings, solicited for the MADD auction in

TRANSMISSION SERVICE Servicing Loudoun County since 1995

CHECK ENGINE Complete transmission service & repair for Domestic and Imports, cars, trucks, and RVs

One of Loudoun County’s newest nonprofits was awarded the Ayrshire Award by the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies. Loudoun Community Cat Coalition Board members Kim Fields and Tom Bove accepted the award from VFHS President Debra Griggs, during the annual conference April 1. The award is presented to an active member organization that has made a significant contribution to reducing pet overpopulation through spay/ neuter services and resources within the community. The coalition networks with individuals, businesses, and organizations to provide care for community cats. Learn more at loudouncommunitycats.org.

Over 1,300 Warranty Locations Nationwide

540-338-7447 701 W. Main Street Purcellville, VA

AT IDA LEE PARK • LEESBURG, VIRGINIA

• • • • • •

Aquatic Center Features:

600’ Lazy River Drop Slide Large Slide Tower Two Body Flumes Little Squirt Whale 25 Yard Lap Lane

• • • • • •

Two Gang Slides Water Pipe Fall Floating Snake Large “Beach” Area Bubblers Water Fountains

• • • • • •

Birthday Parties Concession Stand Classes & Camps Grass Picnic Area Shade Structures Rentals

Loudoun Habitat for Humanity has seven newly elected members to the board and a new executive committee to direct the efforts of the Loudoun office. Those new to the board are Abe Abich, owner of Abich Financial Services; Eric Bear, CEO and founder of PropertySight; Ruth McElroy, owner and partner of Whitbeck Cisneros McElroy; Jim Miller, a retired architect; Michael Scott, president of Pack Rat Hauling; Barney Schwanke, lead pastor at Faithway Baptist Church; and Julie Short, a loan originator at New Penn Financial, Inc. They join current board members Mick Beckstrom, Matt Bowe, Paul Evans, Rick Hill, Joshua Kane, John Maxwell, Allison Metzger, Tom O’Dea, Greg Phillips, Kathy Riley and Jim Wehr. Joining Wehr on the executive committee are Phillips, vice president; Kane, secretary; and Beckstrom, treasurer.

lowed by the 10K at 8:10 am, and the 1K Fun Run/Walk at 9:30 am. Throughout Monday’s event, members of the U.S military, past and present, will be recognized for their service. Additionally, donations will be collected for Boulder Crest to help seriously wounded warriors and their families to reconnect and recover. A list of needed items can be viewed at ringinginhope.com. Monetary donations may be made to Boulder Crest Retreat while registering for the event online.

May 26 – June 1, 2016

BALCH’S

[ NONPROFIT NEWS ]

For Fee and Pass Information Call or Visit:

703-779-5390 • www.AVSAC.org

loudounnow.com

[ LOCO LIVING ]

loudounnow.com

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Who is the only player to win the Heisman twice? From left, Katherine Bolle, Taylor Jones, Ryan Craig, Elizabeth Bolle and Beckwith Bolle try to come up with the right answer at The Black Olive in Lansdowne.

Put that Useless Knowledge to Good Use Mondays 7-9 p.m., Kings Court Tavern, Leesburg Tuesdays 7-9 p.m., MacDowell Brew Kitchen, Leesburg Tuesdays 7:30 p.m., Ashburn Pub, Ashburn Tuesdays 8 p.m., World of Beer, Ashburn Tuesdays 8 p.m., Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm, Ashburn Tuesdays 8-10 p.m., Casa Tequila Bar & Grill, Purcellville Tuesdays 8-10:30 p.m., Glory Days, Sterling Wednesdays 7-9 p.m., The Greene Turtle, Sterling Wednesdays 7-9 p.m., Shoes Cup & Cork, Leesburg Wednesdays 7:30 p.m., King Pinz Bowling, Leesburg Wednesdays 8 p.m., O’Faolain’s, Sterling First and third Thursdays 7:309:30 p.m., Belly Love Brewery, Purcellville Second and fourth Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Corcoran Brewing Company, Purcellville Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m., Old 690 Brewing Company, Hillsboro This is a sampling of trivia nights held throughout Loudoun. Call ahead, as times are subject to change.

THE ANSWER IS … Trivia Night is a Growing Loudoun Destination BY JOHN MCNEILLY

ne might find it odd approaching a restaurant or drinking establishment to hear a group of rowdy patrons suddenly blurt out: “Nicola Tesla!” Or, “Buzz Aldrin!” Not exactly the refrain of wellknown drinking songs. So what’s going on? It’s Trivia night, folks. Trivia games are growing in popularity in Loudoun County, and are already well-established in college towns all over the U.S. It has proven a hot business opportunity for entrepreneurs with smarts and public charisma. Why? These inherently fun, social events help restaurants and craft breweries put fannies in the seats on traditionally slow nights. Take 27-year-old Aaron Kilgore for example. Just last year he started his own company, Roaring Lion Entertainment, to provide interactive trivia games to area establishments and their patrons. As a kid during the Internet Age, whenever Kilgore would learn about a subject he found fascinating, he’d jump online to learn everything he could about it. He also performed in public, as a bassist and lead singer, and felt comfortable in front of crowds. “I’ve always been a fan of trivia,” Kilgore said. “When I get into something, I try to learn everything about it. When I realized I could answer questions about baseball, music, or history, I knew that had some value. I just

Loudoun bars and restaurants are inviting patrons to apply their useless knowledge to at least one, sometimes several, trivia events on any given week night.

didn’t know for what.” He says he never imagined his domination of trivia games with family and friends could ever turn into a business. Kilgore, who grew up in Sterling and Round Hill, graduated from Loudoun Valley High School in 2007. He held down several jobs before starting his company. After serving as a U.S. Marine, he worked for moving and construction companies, and was a digital archivist at the Discovery Channel. Although he enjoyed the work, he says none of it ever felt like a “true calling.” Then, one fortuitous day, a friend asked him to cover a trivia event at a local bar. Kilgore accepted and immediately felt he’d found his niche—something that aligned with his true skill sets and passions. “I felt in my element. I like to be

publicly engaging, it’s just my personality,” he says. The event went well and he was asked to do more. After a month, Kilgore had three establishments asking him to host events. He then decided the time was right to launch his own business. He believed his ideas and skill for trivia would attract like-minded individuals while also satisfying business owners anxious to build a loyal group of customers who’d come back each week to play. “It snowballed from there,” Kilgore said. Today, Kilgore is managing trivia events at seven Loudoun County establishments: The Black Olive in Lansdowne; Shoes Cup & Cork and the Green Turtle in Leesburg; Belly Love Brewery, Casa Tequila, Corcoran Brewery in Purcellville; and the Old 690 Brewing Company near Hillsboro. Just last week he hired his first employee to help manage the inflow of business. Ronda Powell, co-owner of the Old 690 Brewing Company in Purcellville, affirmed Kilgore’s trivia savvy and public personality. “We’re only open on weekends, so Friday nights were usually slow for us. We were looking for an event that would attract people and wanted to do something that would help customers unwind after a long week. Aaron’s trivia games did the trick,” Powell said. She added her business now consistently pulls in regular, often large crowds, who come in to play as teams. “He’s clearly found his calling,” she said. The team element is something Kilgore believes is another promising opportunity for the business. “Trivia works best when it’s played in teams,” Kilgore said. “Everyone knows something about certain subjects. Some, for example, might be experts in string theory, while others might be more familiar with pop culture. That makes for a great team-building exercise.” Asked about the challenges of managing a crowd of diverse people playing trivia, he said it takes a lot of onthe-fly adaptation. If there’s a mix of generations, for example, he has to adjust accordingly. If the questions are too hard, or conversely too easy, he has to change his strategy. Kilgore said this is why he keeps extensive notebooks on every trivia outing. Every night is different, offering a variety of challenges and opportunities, each one making him better at his craft. If the boisterous laughter, squeals of happiness or groans of despair, and the good-natured jousting between teams a patron hears on any given night is any indication, Kilgore’s got his finger firmly on the pulse of trivia fun and spirited, friendly competition in Loudoun. Follow Aaron Kilgore’s weekly schedule of trivia events at area locations at roaringlionentertainment. com.

NIGHTLIFE CLASSIC FRIDAY AT THE STUDIO Friday, May 27, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.; The Studio, 45449 E. Severn Way Suite 165, Sterling. Details: thestudiova.com Take it back to the old school with hand dancing, line dancing, R&B and Motown as DJ Spyce plays hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s.

Friday, May 27, 6 p.m.-midnight; The Old Furniture Factory, 6 W. Loudoun St., Round Hill. Details: theoldfurniturefactory.com This bluegrass, folk and old time jam is a longstanding local tradition. Come and play or just listen. Suggested donation is $5. Barbecue from Savoir Fare catering and beer and wine will be available for sale.

VAL PLAZA PARTY: BIG MOUTH Friday, May 27, 6-8 p.m.; Village At Leesburg Village Plaza, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: villageatleesburg.com Big Mouth’s repertoire covers 50 years of rock, soul, pop, alternative and funk. They’ll kick off Village At Leesburg’s Plaza Party season with a bang.

LI M ITE D TI M E OFFE R

“Forward Restraint” featuring paintings by Kyle Hackett are on display at Waddell Gallery at the Loudoun Campus of Northern Virginia Community College though June 17. “I believe that art can shed light on histories and traditions that are concurrent with the social and cultural conditions of a particular time, and painting is a way for me to reassess my position within this timeline,” the Washington, DC-based artist said. “Manipulating the authority of representational portraiture, I deconstruct historical ideas of secure identity and fixed painting techniques. I highlight the tension between self and the constructed image as I attempt to clarify my contemporary hopes, fears and

LIVE MUSIC: ARLINGTON JAZZ COLLECTIVE

Hackett has received numerous honors and awards, including Best in Show at the 2014 Bethesda Painting Awards Exhibition, and his work has gained international recognition as part of Dave Bown Projects 11th Semiannual Competition, and he was a semifinalist for the 2016 BP Portrait Award at the National Portrait Gallery in London. Hackett’s work is supported and collected by Ethan Cohen New York, Wangechi Mutu Studio in Brooklyn, and University of Delaware’s Museum of African American Art. Waddell Gallery is open to the public for free between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. The NVCC Loudoun Campus is at 21200 Campus Drive in Sterling.

insecurities about racial and socioeconomic progress.”   Details: tallyholeesburg.com

Friday, May 27, 7-9 p.m.; Trinity House Café, 101 E. Market St., Leesburg. Details: trinityhousecafe.com These young musicians love to play and bring jazz standards back to life.

Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live. com

The Emmy-winning writer for the Daily Show has a successful stand-up career of his own. Tickets for this fully seated show are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Singer/songwriter/saxophonist Ken Francis Wenzel, backed by his ace 6-piece band Cross Kentucky, introduces his own roots-rock, country jazz-tinged take on love, learning, and life in contemporary America. Ashleigh Chevalier opens. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

LIVE MUSIC: KEN WENZEL AND CROSS KENTUCKY

COMEDY NIGHT: MATT KOFF

Friday, May 27, 7:30 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd.,

Friday, May 27, 8:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg.

MORE TO DO >> 26

THE RICHARDS GROUP

MEMORIAL DAY

REPLACEMENT WINDOW SALE2x

TRG JOB: RBA-16-0022 CLIENT: Renewal by Andersen

Replacement Windows Scientifically Proven to STRONGER Stand the Test of Time² ® FIBREX Fibrex® Vinyl Wood Insulating Properties Low Maintenance Resistance to Decay/Corrosion Structural Rigidity Durable Color/Finish Choices

P LU S PAT IO

Maximum Glass Area Dark Color Performance

% OFF

Minimum purchase required.

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTEREST NO PAYMENTS FOR 12 MONTHS¹ Interest accrues from the date of purchase, but is waived if paid in full within 12 months.

OFFER ENDS MAY 30

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

PUB(S): Loudoun Now

STRONGER

CAPITAL REGION

✓

TRIM: 10.125 x 6.5

✓

THAN VINYL ✓

QUESTIONS: Todd Gutmann 214-891-3519

varies

✓

THAN VINYL

PLUS!

2O 00 FF

AN ADDITIO

NAL

DOORS

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

ROUND HILL BLUEGRASS JAM

Hackett Paintings on Exhibit at Waddell Gallery

May 26 – June 1, 2016

[ THINGS TO DO ]

When you set by May 30 your app ointment and purcha se 4. Minimu m purchase by June required.

Y O UR ENTIRE PROJEC T

Schedule your FREE window diagnosis.

844-703-8122 RENEWALBYANDERSEN.COM

¹DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 5/30/2016. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. 20% off each window and patio door and no money down with 12 months no payments, no interest when you purchase four or more windows or patio doors between 5/15/16 & 5/30/16 with approved credit. $200 off entire project when you purchase four or more windows or patio doors by 6/4/16. Savings comparison is based on the purchase of a single unit at regular list price. Available only at participating locations. Other discounts and financing options available for other purchase levels. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. VA License #2705155684, DC License #420215000125, MHIC #121441. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2016 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. 2 Based on testing of 10 double-hung units 20 years after installation. See the Renewal by Andersen® limited warranty. Testing per ASTM E2068.

RBA160022 MD_10_125x6_5.indd 1

5/17/16 5:05 PM

loudounnow.com

MUST CALL BY MEMORIAL DAY!

loudounnow.com

BILLY’S BEER & BBQ FESTIVAL Purcellville Community Rallies to Help One of their Own BY JOHN MCNEILLY When Billy Grey was a 15-year-old junior at Loudoun Valley High School in 1989, a swimming pool accident severed his spinal cord, rendering him a quadriplegic. His friends and family immediately rallied around him. One of his closest friends, Shannon Roberts, was a freshman at the time. Like a lot of high school pals, they parted ways after Billy graduated. But Shannon says she always felt they’d end up together. Years passed, and when her first marriage came to a close, she and Billy renewed their friendship. They became a couple, and, 10 years later, on the exact date Billy was paralyzed, they married. “We wanted that bad day to be replaced with a good one,” Shannon said. They built a house that accommodated Billy’s needs. They held down good jobs, raised Shannon’s daughter from her previous marriage, Grace (now 17 and a junior at Loudoun Valley), and although their years together were not without challenges, they built a happy, comfortable life, sinking roots in the Purcellville community. And their community adores them back. Talk to Billy’s friends and you hear the same thing: He’s relentlessly positive, never complains, and is always smiling. Shannon? Same thing. But, last February, misfortune struck again. While on a trip with friends to visit the Florida Keys to celebrate Shannon’s 40th birthday, Billy was injured while being transferred from one airport wheelchair to another on the couple’s trip home. He suffered a bad leg fracture, a dislocated hip, and an injured lung. But because of his lower extremity paralysis, he was initially unaware of the severity of his injuries. The next morning the family realized something was wrong. When paramedics arrived, they were

not out of the woods yet, but I’m feeling much better.” As usual with these kinds of catastrophic health scare stories, the family, on top of fighting around the clock to get Billy physically well, also has endured constant battles with insurance companies. Between that struggle and the loss of the couple’s wages, uncovered medical expenses, and piling up bills, the financial impact of Billy’s injuries rapidly escalated. But just as they did when Billy was in high school, the Purcellville community responded with resolve and commitment to help ease the family’s mounting burdens. BILLY BBQ >> 27

[ THINGS TO DO ] << FROM 25

LIVE MUSIC: SUZY BOGGUSS Saturday, May 28, 8:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com The Nashville-based singer/songwriter had a string of hits in the 90s and has been touring steadily in more recent decades. Her most recent record is an album of Merle Haggard covers. Tickets for this fully seated show are $30 in advance, $35 at the door, $60 for VIP.

LIVE MUSIC: SMOKE ‘N MANGOES May 26 – June 1, 2016

concerned about Billy’s weakened vitals. They rushed him to Inova Loudoun Hospital. By the next day, his condition worsened. He was put on life support, where he remained for 24 days. Billy, 42, was eventually moved to the University of Virginia hospital system in Charlottesville to stabilize his condition. By the time of his release, he had spent 66 days in hospital intensive care units. Shannon, 40, remained at his side every day and night of his ordeal. Although his health has improved in recent weeks, Billy faces months, if not years, of surgery, additional treatment and therapy. True to his reputation for positivity, Billy said, “I’m

Saturday, May 28, 7:30 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com Formed in Poolesville, MD, the band has gone on to open for big names and recorded three albums. With an interest in many genres of music, the band has worked hard to create a

fun evening to round out the holiday weekend.

Village at Leesburg Showcases Weekend Summer Concerts The Village at Leesburg kicks off its summer-time Plaza Party series this weekend with performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. As part of the bi-weekly Plaza Party events, the Village will host free concerts from 6 to 8 p.m. every Friday and Saturday through Sept. 4. But this weekend, to kick off the 2016 series, concerts will be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The first performers to take the stage this season are members of Big Mouth, a rock band that is known for its combination of

ACOUSTIC WEDNESDAY: DARCY DAWN

Courtesy of The Fishermen Band

guitars. They perform Friday, followed by Washington, DC-based soul, funk, rock fusion band The Fishermen Band Saturday. And Baltimore-based reggae band Sun Jah Works closes out the Memorial Day weekend fun on Sunday evening. In the event of rain, the concerts will be held in Smokehouse Live. See a full list of performers at http://villageatleesburg.com/event.

repertoire where anyone in the crowd of any age or musical background can find something to enjoy.

soul, funk, jazz, rock and reggae give audiences a versatile, toe-tapping live experience.

VAL PLAZA PARTY: THE FISHERMEN BAND

VAL PLAZA PARTY: SUN JAH WORKS

Saturday, May 28, 6-8 p.m.; Village At Leesburg Village Plaza, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: villageatleesburg.com The D.C.-based band’s fusion of

Sunday, May 29, 6-8 p.m.; Village At Leesburg Village Plaza, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: villageatleesburg.com Top notch American reggae from this Baltimore-based band. A mellow/

Wednesday, June 1, 6-8 p.m.; Downtown One Loudoun, 20626 East Hampton Plaza, Ashburn. Details: oneloudoun.com One Loudoun’s popular Acoustic Wednesday series resumes with Darcy’s fun combo of Top 40, ’90s, oldies and beyond.

WITH THE KIDS IDA LEE MOVIE IN THE PARK: “101 DALMATIANS” Thursday, May 26, 8:15 p.m.; Ida Lee Park, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg. Details: leesburgva.gov Ida Lee brings back its popular free outdoor movie series for the season. Movies will be screened every third Thursday through Aug. 25. Picnics and blankets are encouraged. Pets, glass containers, and alcohol are prohibited.

LOVETTSVILLE MAYFEST Saturday, May 28, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lovettsville Town Green, Lovettsville.

MORE TO DO >> 29

27 << FROM 26

with .org

Saturday June 4, 2016 - 7:30 p.m. John Champe High School, Aldie VA

Billy’s Beer & BBQ Festival 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat., June 4 Fireman’s Field, 250 Nursery Avenue in Purcellville Tickets: $100 for VIP; $40 general admission pre-purchase; $60 general admission day of Buy tickets: old690.com/events

Powell says everyone participating was in agreement about one thing: All proceeds will go directly to the Grey family. “It’s really remarkable how the town and the beer community came together. They didn’t hesitate to participate and kick in,” Powell said. She said breweries are charging a pittance for kegs of beer. Food vendors are donating a percentage of sales. Musicians are playing for free. Patrons have several ticket options, including a VIP choice (which allows entrance an hour earlier, among other perks), but everyone will receive a commemorative glass with unlimited tastings from area breweries. Shannon and Billy Grey don’t hesitate to say how moved they are by the support. “It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by it all,” Billy said. “We’re truly grateful to everyone.” Although his health dictates how long he can stay out, Billy says he’ll be at the event. He looks forward to seeing old friends, as well as meeting new ones. “I have a lot of catching up to do,” he said.

Tickets $15.00 Buy online at boston-brass.bpt.me

Only 30 minutes west of the beltway in Northern VA 15 minutes west of Chantilly

"A formidable sound" - Indianapolis Performing Arts Examiner "Spectacular and technical musical wizards is an understatement." - Charleston Today "... packs a wallop" - Lincoln Journal Star "More powerful than a speeding locomotive" - Charleston Daily Mail

Just a couple of weeks after his hospitalization, the owners of Purcellville’s Old 690 Brewing Company—Ronda and Mark Powell, and Tammi and Darren Gryniuk (all close friends of the Greys)—began brainstorming about how to best help the family. After talking it over with a group of mutual friends and fellow business owners, they hit on the idea of holding a beer festival, tapping into the newly emerging, but rapidly growing and wildly popular craft beer community. They approached the town, which immediately supported the idea—Mayor Kwasi Fraser even suggested they add a barbecue competition (a suggestion they immediately adopted)—and chose Fireman’s Field as the location for the festival. “The town has been supportive from the beginning. They’ve been fabulous,” Ronda Powell said. “Once we got approval for everything, the event just kept growing. Now, in addition to fantastic local beers, we also have great food options and musical entertainment.” Billy’s Beer & BBQ Festival will be held on Saturday, June 4, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will feature the craft beer offerings of 19 area breweries, as well as a variety of culinary options from several restaurants and food trucks. The barbecue competition will pit local establishments—Smokin’ Willy, ResQ BBQ, Magnolia’s at the Mill, Hill High Bakery & BBQ, and IJ Cann’s—against each other. Live music from well-known local musicians will also be heard throughout the day.

FYI

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Billy BBQ

loudounnow.com

loudounnow.com

[ A LOUDOUN MOMENT ]

10 Degrees Colder earned loud applause at YouthFest on Saturday.

YouthFest Tunes in to Loudoun’s Young Musicians A photo essay by Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Loudoun YouthFest fans came prepared, with umbrellas and raincoats Saturday.

The talents of some of the county’s most promising young musicians were on display Saturday during the 11th annual Loudoun YouthFest. Despite the weekend drizzle, the outdoor concert’s line up of 12 bands drew a crowd to The Barn at One Loudoun. To win their spot on the YouthFest stage, bands had to compete in four Battles of the Bands; held from January through April. The winners of the final battle performed before the YouthFest headliners. Midia took first place, Deep Creek second and Never Born to Follow third. Headliners Bronze Radio Return and

Cecilia Strain, with the help of husband Daniel Strain (above), films her daughter Jessica Endara (right) at YouthFest on Saturday.

Slow Magic closed out the show. Some of the musicians on stage Saturday grew up with YouthFest. It was Jessica Endara’s fourth year to win a spot at the concert. Now 17 and a few days away from graduating from Potomac Falls High School, Jessica is headed to Berklee College of Music in Boston. Her mother, Cecilia Strain, said YouthFest helped shape Jessica and her musical talent. “This is a little sad because it’s her last year here,” Strain said. YouthFest is put on by nonprofit organization Loudoun Youth Inc. and the Loudoun County Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.

[ THINGS TO DO ]

May 26 – June 1, 2016

<< FROM 26

ON STAGE

Details: lovettsvillevamayfest.com Loudoun’s German settlement celebrates spring with a day of children’s activities, live music and local food and wine. Event is free and open to the public.

GO WILD AT NORTHWEST FEDERAL Saturday, May 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Northwest Federal Credit Union, 525 Trimble Plaza SE, Leesburg. Details: loudounwildlife.org

PAWS AND CLAWS FUNDRAISER Saturday, May 28, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; Exeter Stone Clubhouse, 350 Plaza St., Leesburg. Contact: 301-758-1682 Students from Leesburg Elementary School will be selling handmade pet toys and homemade dog treats to benefit Save The Tails and the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition. Event rescheduled from May 21.

Saturday, May 28, 1-3 p.m.; Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets, 241 Fort Evans Road, NE, Leesburg. Details: premiumoutlets.com/outlet/leesburgcorner Multi-layered and upbeat music from this D.C. area favorite launches Leesburg Corner’s summer concert series. The outlets also offer extended shopping hours for the holiday weekend. See website for details.

LIVE MUSIC: ANNIE STOKES Saturday, May 28, 2-5 p.m.; North gate Vineyard, 16031 Hillsboro Road, Purcellville. Details: northgatevineyard.com Stokes is a D.C.-based indie rising star bringing an eclectic mixture of musical theater, bluegrass, and classic Americana-- a fusion of city sounds and country soul. No cover.

COUNTRY BRUNCH WITH SCOTT KURT Sunday, May 29, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.;

MORE TO DO >> 30

Loudoun’s Luxury Senior Living Community Opening 2017

FATHER’S DAY OPEN HOUSE June 17th, 4 - 8 p.m., and June 18th, 12 - 4 p.m. Stop by our Open House and learn how you can enjoy carefree senior living all year long. You’ll also earn how to become a member of our growing Priority Club.

Special gifts for Dads...while supplies last.

A SHBURN

RSVP today! (703) 594-7350

Come see our new restaurant next door! Mention this ad and get your first taco on us!

Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy to check out a local business’s Monarch butterfly habitat. Program is designed with children in mind. Milkweed plants, books and other tools for building a milkweed garden will be for sale.

LEESBURG CORNER SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: LLOYD DOBLER EFFECT

Priority Reservations Now Being Accepted!

44141 Russell Branch Pkwy., Ashburn, VA 20147 www.facebook.com/waltonwoodseniorliving | www.Waltonwood.com

loudounnow.com

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care

loudounnow.com

Art in the Train Station Sunday, June 5th • 12-4pm

Complimentary Wine Tasting From Otium Cellars

[ THINGS TO DO ] << FROM 29 Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com

LOCO CULTURE RINGING IN HOPE 5K/10K

Monday, May 30, 8 a.m., One Loudoun, 20626 E. Hampton Plaza, Ashburn. Details: ringinginhope.com The annual Memorial Day race benefits Boulder Crest Retreat and includes a 10K, 5K and 1K fun run. Registration is $35 for the 5K and $40 for the 10K through May 28. Registration for the fun run is $15 (free for children 3 and younger).

VIRGINIA FOXHOUND CLUB SHOW Sunday, May 29, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Morven Park, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg. Details: virginiafoxhoundclub.org

Featuring Local Artists and Musicians

Located at the Historic Purcellville Train Station

A SALUTE TO OUR TROOPS THE

ONE Racing Event

you’ve been waiting for!

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

• Performance Shirts for Timed Events

10K Race................8:10 am

• USATF Certified Course

1K Fun Run/Walk...9:30 am

• Enjoy food at the Finish Line from Firehouse Subs

TITLE SPONSORS

• Enjoy a FREE glass of beer or spirit drink from World of Beer • Family Fun for Everyone

May 26 – June 1, 2016

FEATURING:

RingingInHope.com Sponsored by

Check out one off the largest foxhound shows in the world. Free for spectators.

BIRDING THE BLUE RIDGE CENTER Saturday, May 28, 8 a.m., Blue Ridge

Center for Environmental Stewardship, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Purcellville. Details: loudounwildlife.org Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for its monthly bird walk at this 900-acre nature preserve in northwestern Loudoun.

COMING UP THE REAGAN YEARS Friday, June 3, 8:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com Get your tickets early for this ’80s nostalgia trip: these fun shows almost always sell out in advance. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

MAX MAJOR: ‘THINK AGAIN’ Thursday, June 9, 7 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org Mentalist Max Major will use a combination of hypnosis and suggestion to demonstrate the untapped powers of the mind. Tickets are $25-$75.

31 << FROM 1

“PEOPLE ARE HAPPILY UNAWARE THAT WE HAVE A HOMELESS SITUATION HERE. WE DON’T HAVE THE STREET CORNERS THAT FAIRFAX DOES, SO IT’S NOT IN OUR FACE.” So last year, the county targeted all of its U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant—about $155,000—to permanent supportive housing units, creating eight at the Homeless Services Center facility on Meadowview Court in Leesburg and 10 off-site apartments. Residents are asked to pay a portion of the rent, about 30 percent of their income. County and nonprofit leaders credit the new strategy for the apparent decline in homelessness. Hodge recounted the story of one woman who has been homeless for several years and is now on her way to living on her own thanks to the program. She is mentally ill and went from being convinced everyone was out to hurt her, to moving into an apartment and being willing to receive counseling

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Cinthia R., 18, bounced between a youth shelter and foster homes for three years. With the help of Loudoun Mobile Hope, she will move into an apartment next month.

and sign up for Supplemental Security Income so she can live independently. “It’s been a years-long process to get her to that spot,” Hodge said. “For us, that’s a success.” Giving people enough help to get them off the streets permanently ultimately costs less, both Rosenberg and Hodge stressed. “ER visits, free clinics, jail time, recovery services—all that costs more than it does to put somebody in an apartment and support them for a time until they get on their feet,” Hodge said. “Otherwise, it costs us more financially. It cost us more morally.”

Not the Full Picture Homelessness in Loudoun may be down—or it may be up—depending what definition is used, according to Donna Fortier, executive director of Loudoun Mobile Hope. Her organization that serves precariously housed young adults and youth, as well as the Loudoun County Public Schools, defines homelessness under the federal Education of Homeless Children and Youth Assistance Act. The act defines homeless children as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” Under that definition, Loudoun County Public Schools has identified 1,827 students considered homeless or precariously housed. That’s up sig-

Point-in-Time Homeless Totals 2006 2007 2008 2009 2011 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

184 211 170 152 156 157 164 166 179 168 134

nificantly from 1,108 during the 20132014 school year and from 1,332 last school year. Many of them are living in situations that would not be counted as “literally homeless” by HUD, Fortier said. “When people think about homelessness, they conjure up an image of a chronically homeless person living under a bridge. That doesn’t depict all of the faces of homelessness,” Fortier said. “It’s important that the community is aware that there are two definitions of homelessness. Those who we [Mobile Hope] take care of do their best to hide—they’re not necessarily that person who’s living under the bridge.”

A Goal of Zero While there may be some disagreement over how many homeless people live in Loudoun—and the best way to count them—most nonprofit and county leaders agree more work can be done. Hodge said, if anything, the annual homeless count is a good reminder that, even in one of the nation’s wealthiest counties, not everyone has a safe place to stay at night. “People are happily unaware that we have a homeless situation here,” she said. “We don’t have the street corners that Fairfax does, so it’s not in our face.” She encourages people to give of their time or money to help their neighbors secure a place to live. “Find a nonprofit, get passionate about it and partner with them, whether as a donor or volunteer. Show up and make a difference.” Hodge’s goal is to bring the homeless count down to zero. That’s not an unrealistic goal, she says. With the shelters, food pantries and other charities working in tandem, an individual or family can be put in temporary housing just long enough to get back on their feet. “Instead of housing people in a big warehouse, let’s connect with them at the start of that crisis and divert that situation,” she said. “That would be what we call functional zero. That would be phenomenal.” dnadler@loudounnow.com

[ OBITUARIES ] Robert “Bob” Brinkman

loudounnow.com

Robert “Bob” Brinkman, 93 of Leesburg, Virginia passed away on Friday, May 20, 2016. Brinkman was born on August 31, 1922 in Arlington, Ohio. He was the son of the late Edward and Ethel Brinkman. He served his country in the 805th Signal Service Company as a Cryptographer during World War II on the USCGC Ingham. He was awarded 3 bronze stars in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater, 1 Bronze Star Philippine Liberation as well as the Victory Medal for good conduct. On May 15th, 1943, he married his beloved wife Helen Bishop Brinkman, his high school sweetheart. They celebrated their 73rd anniversary on May 15th, 2016. After the Army, Brinkman worked with the State Department in France. Later he joined Firestone Tire & Rubber Company where he worked in various roles including sales and management for 25 years.

After retiring from Firestone and relocating to Florida, he worked for Don Olson Firestone. He also enjoyed golfing and playing bridge in his free time. After 16 years in Florida, he and Helen moved to Leesburg, Virginia where he continued to play bridge and enjoy his grandchildren. In addition to his wife he leaves three daughters: Barbara Bowes and her husband Ray of Annandale, VA; Diana Jobson and her husband George of Blacksburg, VA: and Sandra Brinkman-Denney of Purcellville, VA. He also leaves 9 grandchildren, Laura, Lisa, Angela, Brian, Matthew, Paul, Robert, Sean, and Sara; and 12 great grandchildren. The family received friends for visitation on Tuesday, May 24th, 2016 with a service to celebrate Bob’s life following at 3pm. Services took place at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, S.E., Leesburg, VA 20175.The Rev. Cary Johnson officiated. Entombment services will be held privately by the family at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Capital Caring Hospice, 24419 Millstream Drive Aldie, VA 20105.Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

ment of Family Services contracted with Volunteers of America and the Loudoun Homeless Services Center to start a pilot program. They turned two apartments into so-called “permanent supportive housing units” for chronically homeless men and women. Each got their own unit, as well as intensive case management to help them address physical or mental illness, substance addiction, and any other obstacles. “We found that once they were housed and received services, their health improved, they returned to work, their income rose and then they’d decide to move out on their own somewhere,” said Beth Rosenberg, housing finance programs manager for the Loudoun County Department of Family Services. “It was a success.”

One of Mobile Hope’s longtime clients, who is also one of their most dedicated volunteers, does not fit the homelessness stereotype. Cinthia R. first moved into the Loudoun County Youth Shelter at 14 after her father was convicted of abuse and sentenced to 28 years in prison. For the next three years, she bounced from the shelter to foster families back to the shelter, and most recently she lived with two of her teachers from her school in Leesburg. But starting next month, Cinthia, now 18, will lease an apartment with a friend. Mobile Hope will cover part of her rent until she gets a steady paycheck, which should come soon now that she landed a job at Leesburg coffee shop. “I love school, I’m excited for this new job—I might soon feel settled,” she said. “I think it’s going to be a positive thing.”

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Homelessness

loudounnow.com

[ OBITUARIES ] Betty Francis Daniel Betty Francis (Leith) Daniel went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 7 at Inova Loudoun Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Leesburg at the age of 90. Betty was predeceased by her husband, John Orr Daniel. She is survived by three children and their spouses: Jean (Tommy) Lindsey of Taylorstown, John O. Jr. (Sue) of Leesburg, and Bobby (Debbie) of Leesburg. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Services were held at Colonial Funeral Home. Donations may be made to Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church or the activities department of Inova Loudoun Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, both in Leesburg, Virginia.

Betty Owen Hatrick Betty Owen Hatrick of Leesburg, Virginia, entered the Resurrection Life on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Born Wednesday, May 12, 1943 in Danville, Virginia, Betty was the daughter of the late Willie Smith Owen and the late Ruth Armethia Cox Owen. She was a graduate of Spring Garden High School and Radford College where she majored in English and French. She came to Loudoun County High School in 1965 to teach both subjects. There she met and married fellow English teacher Edgar B. Hatrick, III. Betty went on to be a charter faculty member at Broad Run High School before leaving the classroom in 1969 to begin her family with her husband. As a young mother she helped to found the St. James’ Episcopal Church pre-school, which flourishes to this day. For many years she organized the coffee and fellowship hour. She saw that time as a ministry of the church in welcoming visitors and newcomers and encouraging members and visitors to share events of their lives and support one another. She served for a number of years on the Board of the Douglass Community Center. She also helped with many St. James’ Rummage Sales as well as the annual Loudoun Hospital Rummage Sale. Hatrick was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and homemaker. She was an avid gardener, extensive reader, and supporter of the performing arts. She

Crossword

treasured time with her friends and their families. Her life was guided by her Christian faith. Throughout her marriage she joined her husband in numerous professional activities at the local, state, and national levels. Wherever she traveled she was always seen as a model of southern womanhood. She leaves her beloved family to cherish her memory including her husband of 48 years, Edgar B. Hatrick, III, of Leesburg, VA; daughter, Elizabeth Hatrick Scheib and husband Gregory P. Scheib of Leesburg, VA; son Edgar B. Hatrick, IV, and wife Kristi G. Hatrick of Brunswick, ME; and son William Owen Hatrick of Sacramento, CA. She also leaves three granddaughters, Lillian Elizabeth and Evelina Virginia Hatrick, and Grace Elizabeth Scheib. She is also survived by two brothers, Thomas B. Owen and his family, and Gene F. Owen, of Pittsylvania County, VA, as well as numerous cousins and extended family members. The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Friday, June 3, 2016, at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, Virginia 20175. A Memorial and Celebration of Betty’s life will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 4, 2016, at St. James’ Episcopal Church located at 14 Cornwall Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 with the Rev. Mark R. Feather officiating. A reception at the church will immediately follow the service. Interment will be held at 1:30 PM in Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA. Memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to St. James’ Episcopal Church, 14 Cornwall Street, NW, Leesburg, VA 20176 or online at stjamesleesburg.org/pages/giving; the Loudoun Education Foundation, 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, VA 20148 or online at lef-va.com/donate.html; the George C. Marshall International Center, 312 East Market Street, Suite C, Leesburg, VA 20176 or online at georgecmarshall.org/donate. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel. com

Geraldine A. Walsh Geraldine A. “Gerry” Walsh, 70, of Ashburn, VA, passed on May 22, 2016. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm, Wednesday, at the Loudoun Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016, at 10:30 am at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ashburn, VA. www.LoudounFuneralChapel.com

For Sale 100 gallon fish aquarium with pumps, accessories and stand. Includes two huge tiger oscar fish. $500/obo Please call (571) 420-1842

Yard Sale MOVING SALE Friday MAY 27 2016 8am—1pm Saturday May 28, 2016 8am—1pm 603 Kinvarra Place Purcellville Va. 20132 ( Village Case) Household, Sporting Goods, Lawn Tools, Furniture , Animal/Wildlife Art

Yard Sale Saturday & Monday 9am-6pm Rain Date: June 4th & 5th May 26 – June 1, 2016

19427 James Monroe Hwy.

Pro Line Golf, Bass Fishing Rods, 2 tents, 3 backpacks, bicycles, Saris & Yakima bicycle racks, ski boots $15-$40, radio flyer wagons, 40 lb dumbbells, misc. garden, 50 Barbie & Fisher Price & Mattel toys, Yahama CG101A classical guitar, collector books.

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

Employment www.akidsplacewest.com 16 Months Through Kindergarten

AWARD WINNING PROGRAM

• Siding

b you need, and at the an afford. ations.com 677

Senior Pre-School Teacher

to multi-task classroom & front office duties. Opening &/or closing duties. (Free childcare for 1 child) 703-777-9012 248 Loudoun Street SW, Leesburg

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

Leesburg Sterling Family Practice

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 wil ing 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

LOUDOUNNOW you! s t n a w 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

Hiring? Share the opportunity in LoudounNow We’ve Got You Covered In The Mail Weekly Online Always

One Low Price

JOB SUPERINTENDENT Experienced crew leaders with sheet metal background wanted. Must be able to oversee full mechanical system installations from start to finish on projects ranging from $50K - $1 million. Experience with stainless steel and aluminum ductwork, kitchen hoods, black iron, and welding is a plus. Submit resumes to jobs@amsihvac.com or via www.amsihvac.com. HVAC INSTALLER Commercial HVAC installers with 2+ years of experience needed. VRF experience a plus. Candidates must exhibit strong skills in the basics of HVAC installation: soldering, brazing, pipe/hanger layout and installation, insulation, nitrogen purging, etc. Proficiency in reading mechanical plans, calculation line sizing, material ordering is a plus. Submit resumes to jobs@amsihvac.com or via www.amsihvac.com. HVAC SERVICE TECHNICIAN Looking for commercial HVAC service technicians with 5+ years of equipment. Must have experience troubleshooting air and water cooled commercial equipment including RTU, WSHP, VRF/VRV, CRAC, dehumidification systems and traditional split-systems from manufacturers like Trane, Carrier, York, Mitsubishi, Samsung, Daikin, Liebert, Stulz, AboveAir, Desert Aire, and Pool-Pac. Proficiency with pneumatic, DDC, and BAS control systems is required. Submit resumes to jobs@amsihvac.com or via www.amsihvac.com. SHEET METAL MECHANICS/FOREMAN Commercial sheet metal mechanics with 5+ years of experience needed. Ability to layout, order, and hang ductwork systems required. Experience with stainless steel and aluminum duct work, kitchen hoods, black iron, and welding is a plus. Submit resumes to jobs@amsihvac.com or via www.amsihvac.com.

For Hire

CERTIFIED CARE GIVERer

Looking For Work Providing Care For The Elderly Seniors / Persons with Disabilities, in their homes & all of their daily needs. • Will run errands • Has own transportation • good cook Call Naana (630) 200-9592

House of Worship To Include Your House Of Worship

Email: classifieds@loudounnow.com Call: (703) 770-9723

loudounnow.com

Contact: Lindsay Morgan (703) 770-9723 lmorgan@loudounnow.com

Anderson Mechanical Services Inc. – Family owned and operated in Loudoun since 1988, AMSI is a commercial HVAC contractor offering industry-best employment packages including 401(k), 100% employer paid healthcare, 100% employer paid dental and vision, life insurance and paid holidays/PTO. Submit resumes to jobs@amsihvac.com or via www.amsihvac.com. LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS | CRIME | EDUCATION | OUR TOWNS | BIZ | LOCO LIVING | CLASSIFIEDS | OPINION

ofing, Siding, ces Virginia

is looking for

May 26 – June 1, 2016

A KID’S PLACE

loudounnow.com

Business Card Directory

APPLIANCE Ashburn Appliance, LLC

CHIROPRACTOR

Loudoun Event Management

Joe “The Appliance Guy” Senior Technician

* Bobcat Services * * Gravel Driveway Repair *

Br am

hall Trucking

540-822-9011

◆ Stone DuSt ◆ Mulch ◆ topSoil ◆ SanD ◆ ◆ light graDing ◆ graveling ◆ ◆ Drainage SolutionS ◆ Backhoe Work ◆

Let us heLp you carry your Load!

CONSTRUCTION

EXCAVATING

HANDYMAN

FLOORING

HANDYMAN

Marlene Vasquez (703) 303-1364

Email: rdcleaningserv@gmail.com R&D Cleaning Service LLC www.RDCleaningservice.com

virginiahandyman1775@yahoo.com The Quickest Solution To A Problem Is To Fix It

C ustom C onstruCtion A dditions • r epAirs Blue Ridge Remodeling, Inc. 540-668-6522

www.brrinc.net Purcellville, VA

Since 1976 • Free Estimates Licensed & Insured

R&D CLEANING SERVICE, LLC Residential - Commercial - Move-In/Out Carpet Cleaning - Excellent Reference Reasonable Rates - Licensed & Insured FREE ESTIMATE

Home remodeling • Doors • Trim Crown Moulding • Hardwood Flooring Tile • Deck Repair • Electric Plumbing • Drywall Painting & Powerwashing

Weddings • Catering • Corporate Events • Dinner Parties

(571) 246-8409 loudouneventmanagement@yahoo.com

CLEANING SERVICE CONSTRUCTION

Chevy Chase Floor Waxing Service Polishing • Buffing • Waxing

Burnishing And Polishing Urethane And Polyurethane Wood Floor Finishes

30 YEARS EXPERIENCE • DRIVEWAYS • EXPOSED AGGREGATE • PATIOS • FOOTINGS • SLABS • STAMPED CONCRETE • SIDEWALKS

Free Estimates

Ph: 703-437-3822 • Cell: 703-795-5621

CLEANING SERVICE CONSTRUCTION

Marble • Wood • Tile • Stone • Brick

All Work Done By Hand. Working Owners Assure Quality. Old Fashioned Paste Wax Method. Family Owned & Operated • No Pick-up Labor Serving Your Community For 25 Years No Dust • No Sanding

(703) 777-3296 (540) 347-1674

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

HHHHH FIVE STAR GENERAL CONTRACTOR & HANDYMAN SERVICES • Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Wash & Stain Decks • • Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling • Finish Basements • • Electrical • Plumbing • Mailbox Replacement • • Clean Gutters • Install Crown Molding • Drywall Repairs • Exterior Rotten Wood Replacement • • Small or Large Jobs We Do It All •

Owner: Edwin Ramirez (703) 944 - 5181 ramirezedwin80@yahoo.com

Licensed & Insured • Reliable & Reasonable Prices

GARAGE DOORS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

GARDENING

HOME THEATER

Francisco Rojo 571-213-0850 Project Manager 571-235-8304

Email: bolimex101@gmail.com

Good References • Good Prices We Provide The Supplies Free Estimates

General Contractor Licensed & Insured

karycleaning@yahoo.com

703-944-5700

Finished Basements - Custom Audio/Visual Rooms General Painting - Kitchen & Bath Remodels Finish Carpentry - Flagstone, Stone Walls, Paver Patios General Handyman Services - References Available

Licensed & Insured

803 S Filbert Ct. Sterling, VA 20164

COMPUTER SERVICES LEE E. ABERNATHY MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO la@protechitservices.com

PROTECH COMPUTER SERVICES Computer Networking • Project Management Consulting • Special Projects • Problem Resolutions Telephone Systems • On Site and Remote Service

Ashburn, VA 20147-5664

Office: (703) 729-5995 Fax: (703) 738-7011

“Big Enough To Service & Good Enough To Care”

CHAUFFEUR May 26 – June 1, 2016

Benjamin Hall

Virginia irginia Handyman

Mention this ad for New Patient savings!

ashburnappliance@aol.com www.ashburnappliance.com

BOBCAT

HANDYMAN Loudoun, Virginia • 540-514-4715 Lic/Bonded & Ins.

We repair all major brands

703.963.1619

EVENTS

DECKS Baker’s

Painting & Remodeling

Serving Northern Virginia area for over 10 years. Taking orders for spring deck projects BUILD DECKS & FENCES POWERWASHING & STAINING FREE ESTIMATES & DECK INSPECTIONS

Licensed & Insured Contractor who performs “Handyman Services, Rental & Re-sale Turnovers“ *We Accept ALL Major Cards* 571-439-5576 jbremodeling22@gmail.com

ENVIRONMENTAL •Lower Your Electric Bill •Reduce Pollution •Provide Backup Power •30% Tax Credit Available!

Info@SuperiorSolarVA.com 571.321.6414

YOUR LUSH GARDEN Professional, certified and experienced gardener.

Flower, Veggie, Butterfly, Native, Herb gardens, Ornamental Bushes, Design, Plant, Prune, Mulch, Maintain Low hourly rates. Pkg. avail.

703-297-9821. www.yourlushgarden.com

GARDENING

HELP IN THE GARDEN personal gardening services Let our & gardeners knowledgeable gardeners assist you withannuals plantingand annuals Let our experienced experienced assist you with planting perennials, and perennials, weeding, mulching, transplanting & dividing. Low hourly rates.

transplanting, weeding, mulching and dividing. Low hourly rates. Call today.

Sharon Lynch, Owner

540.454.9500

Business Card Directory LAWN CARE

REAL ESTATE Stephany DeBerry

Painting & Remodeling

cell: 571.258.7371 stephany.deberry@exprealty.com www.stephanysellsthedmv.com 43723 Lees Mill Sq Leesburg, VA 20176 Licensed in VA & MD

Serving Northern Virginia area for over 10 years. INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING ROTTED WOOD REPAIR DECKS • BASEMENTS • KITCHENS • BATHS BASEMENT FINISHING & REMODELING

Licensed & Insured Contractor who performs “Handyman Services, Rental & Re-sale Turnovers“ Taking orders for spring deck projects *We Accept ALL Major Cards* 571-439-5576

Providing SUPERIOR service since 2006

NORTH’S TREE SERVICE & LANDSCAPING

Tree Experts For Over 30 Years Family Owned & Operated SPRING

• Tree Removal • Lot Clearing • SPECIAL • Pruning • Trimming • Clean Up • 25% OFF WITH THIS •Deadlimbing • Uplift Trees • AD! • Grading • Private Fencing • • Retaining/Stone Walls • Grading Driveways •

Your Complete Tree & Landscaping Company Honest & Dependable Serv. • 24 Hr. Emerg. Serv. Satisfaction Guaranteed

(540) 533-8092

jbremodeling22@gmail.com

Lic./Ins. • Free Estimates • Angie’s List Member • BBB

LAWN CARE

RENOVATIONS

ROOFING

Purcellville Lawn & Landscape

C2 Operations offers Professional Roofing, Siding, Remodeling, & Specialty Services throughout Loudoun Co. & Northern Virginia

Mowing • Spring & Fall Clean Up • Mulching Landscaping • Road & Driveway Restoration Bush Hogging • Power Washing Fence Repair • Snow Removal Junk Removal

Roof Repairs • Roof Replacements • Siding Gutters • Windows • Doors Skylights & Maintenance

Services Include:

We perform the job you need, when you need it, and at the price that you can afford. *SDVOSB* c2operations.com 703.651.6677

(703) 406 - 8800

LAWN CARE IZP Lawn Services Mowing As Low As $30 • Mowing • Trimming • Edging • Blowing • Mulching • Lawn Care • Core Aeration • Leaf Removal • Spring & Fall Clean-up

Call 703-507-0451 or 703-618-0289

Ask about our annual maintenance program. Now is the time to Mulch! Licensed

LANDSCAPE C.L.L.

LAWN CARE

PAINTING

WINDOW CLEANING

Troy Fields (866)869-1107 tfields@clearsky-painting.com www.clearsky-painting.com Interior & Exterior Painting  Drywall Repair Wallpaper Removal  Pressure Washing Deck/Fence Staining & Sealing Wood Rot Repair  Gutter Cleaning Free Estimates - Licensed - Insured

Chesapeake Potomac Window Cleaning Co. ~ Window Cleaning * inside & out by hand * residential specialists ~ Power Washing * no damage - low pressure * soft brushing by hand

(703) 777-3296

(540) 347-1674

Black rain clouds, birds & spiders follow us

“Transforming Homes and Businesses with COLOR”

Licensed * Bonded * Insured

TRAVEL

CORUM’S LAWN & LANDSCAPING • Lawn Maintanence • Landscape & Hardscape • Tree Service • Drainage Solutions • Bobcat Services

Don’t worry Loudoun we deliver

Senior & Neighborhood Discounts

James Corum (540) 347-3930 or (540) 905-0706 www.corumslandscaping.com

LANDSCAPE

LAWN CARE

MASONRY

PET SITTING

JUNK REMOVAL

TREE REMOVAL

May 26 – June 1, 2016

HANDYMAN Baker’s

We deliver your business card to over 37,000 homes in Loudoun County for one low price. classfieds@loudounnow.com

703-770-9723

Serving Northern VA/MD/DC Shuttle Services Available

(703)297-4737 • (703)395-3490 WWW.HAPPYHOUNDSLODGE.COM

loudounnow.com

Share Our Country Home Chasing Squirrels and Sleeping by the Fireplace

[ OPINION ]

loudounnow.com

Meeting the Challenge, Together There has been a significant debate percolating in the county’s nonprofit and social services community over the efforts to quantify the number of homeless people hidden behind the McMansion communities in the nation’s wealthiest county. The release of the latest homeless count figures—data defined by narrow parameters established by inside-the-beltway bureaucrats—will do little to temper that debate. After all, buckets of federal dollars potentially are at stake. The higher the number, the more money local agencies might expect to have at their disposal. This has resulted in cross accusations about some authorities downplaying the homeless totals and others inflating them. While that debate puts the focus on the funding (who is getting how much), it takes away efforts to get those most concerned with addressing the complex problem to work better together. Much of the effort is focused on keeping families in their homes as they weather tough times. Those critical services include the food pantries, charities that help with medical bills, and those who keep the lights on and heat running. Despite the county’s statistically significant wealth, many of its families are only a missed paycheck or two from finding their own housing in jeopardy. Keeping the homeless rate down during a prolonged period of economic stagnation is a testament to the work of those groups. As with any community challenge, more can be done. It starts with finding ways to use existing resources—volunteers, donations, government grants—more efficiently and effectively. That’s proven to be a tougher challenge than one might believe because of the wide range of organizational philosophies practiced by the area’s charities. At the core, however, they share common goals that provide a foundation on which to build a stronger support network, working in concert rather than in competition.

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 Danielle Nadler Managing Editor dnadler@loudounnow.com Margaret Morton Senior Writer mmorton@loudounnow.com Renss Greene, Reporter rgreene@loudounnow.com Kara C. Rodriquez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Douglas Graham, Photographer dgraham@loudounnow.com

Contributors Shawn Ouellette Jan Mercker John McNeilly Advertising Director Susan Styer sstyer@loudounnow.com Classified Manager Lindsay Morgan lmorgan@loudounnow.com Production Electronic Ink 9 Royal St. SE Leesburg, VA 20175

[ LETTERS ] Thankful Editor: I am probably just one of the many Loudoun residents who were encouraged to read that the Environmental Protection Agency is at last proposing national limits on methane pollution from new and modified natural gas infrastructure projects. Here in our beautiful county, my neighbors and I have had to repeatedly fight a series of natural gas projects that will bring industrial methane pollution to our own backyard; first the 778 MW Leesburg Panda Power Stonewall plant and then Dominion’s Leidy South proposal to expand the compressor station and add a new metering station in Leesburg. We fight because methane is an extremely dangerous greenhouse gas. Over a 20-year period, methane causes 86 times the amount of global warming than carbon dioxide. Across Virginia, four natural gas pipeline projects crisscross the commonwealth. These projects promote hydraulic fracturing, a.k.a. fracking, of the Marcellus Shale bedrock underlying West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York. This extreme method of extraction is devastating to the human health and economic welfare of communities directly impacted. In addition, communities along pipelines are subjected to unacceptable levels of risk from explosion. Finally, releases of methane to the atmosphere by either deliberate compressor station blowdowns or unintended fugitive emissions from infrastructure, accelerates global warming. My church, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Loudoun, teaches respect for “the interconnected web of existence of which we are all a part.” These natural gas projects, as well

as all fossil fuel projects, do not respect the web of existence. They destroy the web of existence. I am thankful that the EPA is taking this positive first step to cut down methane pollution from new projects. Mindful of our interconnectedness, though, I pray for continued action to address existing methane pollution sources, including those right here in Loudoun County, that are already polluting our climate and hurting our neighbors. – Natalie Pien, Leesburg

An Opportunity Editor: Regarding the federal government’s attempt to impose bathroom policy for transgender students, it is important to understand that the Constitution grants the federal government no authority over a local issue such as education. Refusing the $16 million in Title IX funds (only 1.3 percent of the school budget) would maintain local control over all school issues and would be a perfect opportunity for teachers to instruct students in two of this country’s most important founding principles— Federalism and the 10th Amendment. – Bob Jensen, Leesburg

Overwhelmed Editor: It is with enormous gratitude that I thank the citizens of Purcellville. I am overwhelmed by your show of support and I look forward to serving you on your Town Council. It is vital that the elected council members remember the very strong LETTERS >> 37

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

May 26 – June 1, 2016

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.

First name _____________________________________________

Last name _____________________________________________

fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org Michelle Lindsay Photography

The Loudoun Now crew spends a rare moment in front of the camera after being named New Business of the Year during the 15th Annual Leesburg Business Awards. From left, Classifieds Manager Lindsay Morgan, reporter Renss Greene, Senior Writer Margaret Morton, Advertising Manager Susan Styer, publisher and Editor-in-Chief Norman K. Styer, Managing Editor Danielle Nadler, and reporter Kara C. Rodriguez.

We’re honored Thanks to the Town of Leesburg and the Economic Development Commission for selecting Loudoun Now as the New Business of the Year. The newspaper was born from handshakes and goodwill in the days after Leesburg Today was sold and closed. What emerged is a community-owned community newspaper supported by a broad spectrum of our neighbors who value public service-oriented journalism. The paper comes out each week through the work of a small and dedicated staff who, individually, challenge each other every day to do better and, together, work to make Loudoun better. The paper also enjoys strong support from advertisers— many of whom recognize that their weekly ad is not only about marketing their companies but also is important in providing a platform for community voices and keeping a close eye on the doings of local government.

Thanks for the support. We will continue working to earn it every day.

[ LETTERS ] << FROM 36

Loudoun Now is mailed to 34,000 homes and businesses in selected ZIP codes each week. If you do not receive the newspaper in the mail, you may purchase a subscription. The cost is $39 per 52 issues. For addresses outside Virginia, the cost is $50. To get the paper delivered every week, visit loudounnow.com/subscribe Or mail this form to with your check to:

Loudoun Now

To receive our newsletter every day via email, visit loudounnow.com/newsletter

Company name ________________________________________

be successful in paying down the debt, finding new sources of revenue, adopting smart growth strategies, increasing transparency and outreach to citizens, and preserving Purcellville’s history, small town character and sense of place. I work for you and you can always reach me through my town email account at cbledsoe@purcellvilleva.gov, or by my cell phone at 703-728-3377. – Chris Bledsoe, Purcellville Town Council member-elect

Telephone _____________________________________________ Address 1 _____________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________ State _______________________________Zip ________________

Loudoun Now PO Box 207 Leesburg, VA 20178

loudounnow.com

message that you gave us on Election Day. The issues and concerns that you shared with me time and again will remain foremost on my mind as I prepare to take office. I have started preparing for this work in several ways, including reaching out to the community, working with Purcellville town staff, and discussions with council and board members. While the tasks before us are difficult, I am convinced that together with the community’s involvement we can

Direct from our newsroom to your mailbox.

Dudley told supervisors during their May 19 meeting. Dan Fedick, an engineer and farmer who says he’s worked around and managed data centers for Verizon, AOL, Oracle, and the U.S. Air Force, noted the enormous amount of backup power generation proposed in the application—32 megawatts, enough to provide about 15 megawatts of power to the facility with industry-standard double redundancy. “There is not a telecommunications facility on earth that needs that much power and cooling unless they’re powering a mass data storage and server,” Fedick said. Even county supervisors are skeptical. “I can tell you for sure it isn’t a transmissions substation,” said Supervisor Geary M. Higgins (R-Catoctin), whose district includes the Short Hill Mountain facility. “The people I work for build those, and it’s not one of them.” He is the vice president of labor relations at the National Electrical Contractors Association. “It’s not a data center,” said AT&T Project Manager Bob Ericksen during Monday’s Lovettsville meeting. “There’s a difference between switching and transmitting data and being a data center. There’s a whole different ballpark on that one. They look a lot

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Sam Kroiz holds up a sign encouraging people to speak and donate to a legal fund before the meeting in Lovettsville.

different, too, other than the outside.” The application to build was originally filed for a special exception permit, which requires a more thorough review process and public hearings at the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission. The process of approving the new structure was accelerated in February by a county staff determination that the facility is classified as “utility substation transmission,” a permitted use in the area. Under that rule, the applicant need only win a new commission permit. Once the planning commission has approved that permit—it did

on April 25—the Board of Supervisors has 60 days to either ratify or overrule the action. If it does nothing, at the end of those 60 days, the permit is automatically granted. The deadline for board action is June 23. “The entire discussion changed when the decision was made to categorize this not as a data center, but through a commission permit process as a telecommunications facility,” said Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles). “So I think one of the reasons a lot of residents feel this was rushed was because the processes are different.”

He denied any suggestion that there was a “nefarious plot” by county staff members. “I’ve never encountered our staff doing something like that with one of these applications,” he said. “I am flabbergasted that this application was somehow allowed to transform itself from a special exception into a commission permit,” said Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg). “I don’t know why that was permitted. I would say, based on what we’re learning, that should not have been permitted.” Area residents also have raised questions about what the existing underground facility on Short Hill—built in the 1960s—is being used for. The county staff relied entirely on information provided by the applicant for its review of the project. AT&T Project Manager Bob Ericksen said the Short Hill site is an important node in AT&T’s network. “The whole intent of this is that we are going to beef up a key point in our network, and we need that network in order to service this area,” Ericksen said. He argues that, although AT&T does not provide local service in the area, other providers use its network for long distance calls. Under detailed questioning from the public, though, representatives from Parsons and AT&T got vague at times. “The elephant in the room here is the military application,” resident Melani Carty said. She pressed Ericksen and SHORT HILL >> 39

[OPINION ]

Life in a Floodplain BY DAVID NELSON

• IN

<< FROM 1

or many years, I have sat on my porch, listening to the flowing waters of Catoctin Creek and observing endless caravans of wildlife making their way along this great natural highway. Like the local wildlife, denizens of other human habitats move through here, too, including curious children, bicyclists, fishermen, kayak clubs and day hikers. My house, an 18th Century grist mill, is the closest human dwelling to this creek and is likely to remain that way. Mills need water, so I am right on the floodplain. One of my neighbors, at the pre-Revolutionary War “Foxton Cottage,” is a close second. His house is situated on a small hill just above the floodplain area of the creek. Also on a hill overlooking my property is Loudoun County’s oldest still-standing house, “Hunting Hill” (circa 1745), most likely the original miller’s house. I can see the entire scene from my backyard and it is beautiful. In the mid-1970s, the last miller at Taylorstown Mill, Millard Meyers, described this community as a “right important place.” Forty years on, the area is a scattering of houses and businesses

OUR

areas usually coincide with a waterway like Catoctin Creek, which is really a wildlife highway visited by every type of animal in the area for food, drink and transit. My daughter has often been delighted by this continual traffic. A pair of beavers that visited recently and bald eagles, foxes, raccoons, deer are just a few of the species that seem to stick close by the water. Crayfish are abundant and support many raccoons and cranes that visit us daily. I watch them all and see amazing things in this ecologically rich backyard. I have learned that we are much more of a nuisance to them than they are to us, as they go about naturally ordered lives. By statute, Catoctin Creek is a Virginia “Scenic River,” giving it a small amount of protection through that legal designation, but how this view will look in 50 or 100 years is anyone’s guess. Recently, our elected officials enacted a law eliminating the protection from certain types of mining along designated Virginia Scenic Rivers and their tributaries, demonstrating the transitory nature of what I can see today. The massive stone piers of the first bridge, built in 1911, stand like family elders next to the modern bridge from 1971. Through the woods, but still visible, are the very substantial stone walls of the Honicon Sand Pit operation from the 1940s. Old timers still talk about the movies projected on these walls and the plentiful fish that congregated below the mill dam. Lo-

BACK

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Short Hill

YARD

loudounnow.com

old and new. The general store and gas station, grist mill, distillery, blacksmith shop and sand-mining operation have all gone out of business, but the original infrastructure is still there, with Catoctin Creek running right through it. The historic community lived close to the creek, and it provided for many of their needs, including power for the mill to grind grist or flour, and fish on their dinner plates. Before the first bridge was built in 1911, the Taylorstown Mill dam, several fords and a system of hanging bridges served as pathways for commerce and traffic through this area. My appreciation of living in a floodplain did not happen suddenly, but after many years it is now ingrained. To live in a floodplain is to live in close proximity to the natural world. Floodplain

cal families lived off this habitat for hundreds of years and it is good to remember this fact as we move into the future. This heritage does not have to be lost. The Catoctin Creek Scenic River Advisory Committee promotes awareness of the scenic and historic value of Catoctin Creek through education and bi-annual events. With some help from Loudoun residents, many generations will be able to listen to the same flowing water sounds, and enjoy the many natural and historic scenes that exist today. I know other generations will also discover this idyllic spot on the creek, with its stone piers and fieldstone walls, which can buttress them against the area’s too-fast encroaching suburban lifestyle. Sounds of curious and eager children with fishing poles will again resonate along these walls. Along the creek, for now, the space is mostly quiet and fallow. The creek is a source of never-ending stories and adventures for those who venture here. I would like it to be always so. David Nelson is the chairman of the Catoctin Creek Scenic River Advisory Committee, one of several boards established by the Virginia Scenic Rivers Act. For more information go to catoctinscenicriver.org. In Our Backyard is compiled by the Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition. To learn more about the organization or to participate in the rural road initiative, to go loudouncoalition.org.

<< FROM 38

rgreene@loudounnow.com

Memorial Day Observance Monday, May 30th, 10:00am Loudoun County Court House Special Guest Lt. General John A. Dubia, USA-Retired

loudounnow.com

Parking available for those who need assistance, all others please use Town Garage. For more information, call 703.777.1368 or visit www.idalee.org. In the event of rain, the ceremony will be held at the Leesburg Senior Center, located at 102 North St., NW

others on the military and civilian uses of the building, and asked him if he could say that all of the above ground levels are for civilian applications. “I don’t have the delineation of what’s used on which levels of the building,” Ericksen replied. When pressed on how many levels are in the facility, he responded only “two levels aboveground.” Residents at the foot of the mountain say they think the facility has been expanding underground, as well. Angie McDebitt, who lives on Nicewarner Lane off Mountain Road in Lovettsville, says she’s heard blasting over the past several years. “It’s enough to rattle the back of your house, and it goes on for three or four months at a time,” McDebitt said. The facility was originally permitted all underground in 1962. “It was a very different era,” said AT&T Principal Network Architect Scott Rushin. “I’ll just say that it was the Cold War era. Every facility had to be hardened.” “I’m afraid we don’t know everything here, and maybe we’re not allowed to know everything here, because we all know some of the things that occur in those areas,” said board Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn). “But I also don’t want this hiding behind the guise of a transmission station under a

commission permit if it really is something else.” However, he and Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) cautioned that if the board decides to overrule the commission permit, it will need to have good legal reasons. “We can’t simply decide we don’t like something and we’re denying it,” Letourneau said. “We have to have findings for denial that will stand up in court. They have to be legally sound.” Higgins was joined by fellow western supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) in opposing the commission permit outright at both the board meeting and Lovettsville meeting. “We’ve got less than 30 days, and anything done to mitigate the problems is pretty much voluntary,” Higgins said. “I think the Planning Commission did not do their jobs, and I want to clarify that I do not mean [Commissioner] Eugene Scheel (Catoctin).” Higgins said he and Scheel, who voted against the permit, asked the Planning Commission for a meeting about the application, but didn’t get one until the meeting in April when it was approved. “If it’s possible to mitigate it, you’re going to have to go above and beyond to make that happen,” Higgins said. “I’m just in a situation that I can’t go for this in any way, shape, or form.”

May 26 – June 1, 2016

Short Hill

May 26 – June 1, 2016