Loudoun Now for June 23, 2016 by Loudoun Now

5 LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

Loudoun lands a state park

[ Vol. 1, No. 33 ]

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[ June 23 – 30, 2016 ]

LIFE IN PRISON Roberts Admits Guilt in Lansdowne Murder BY NORMAN K. STYER

excited. Now it’s kind of just space.” Victoria, the Castillos’ only daughter, told the jury her mother’s death has saddened her. “I was glad that she was the one to adopt me. I was her little girl and her only girl,” Victoria said. “There’s an empty space in my heart.” Victoria expressed gratitude for her foster parents, Stephanie and David Meeker, the Castillos’ former neighbors who have cared for the children since Michelle’s death. “I have an awesome family. I now have an awesome mom and dad,” she said.

Seven years ago, the body of a man who had been beaten to death was found along a Lansdowne street. Later, the body of his severely assaulted, barely alive wife was found lying nearby. On Monday morning in Loudoun Circuit Court, Anthony R. Roberts, the man responsible for one of the most horrendous attacks in the county’s history, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison for the Anthony R. Roberts crimes. The hour-long hearing brought the long legal case to a close, with county prosecutors abandoning efforts to have Roberts face the death penalty but ensuring that he’ll never again be a threat to the public. As part of a plea bargain, Roberts, 27, pleaded guilty to the charge of capital murder with the condition that he be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. He also pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated assault, robbery, and abduction with intent to defile. The agreement did not specify a sentence for those charges, but Judge Thomas D. Horne sentenced Roberts to the maximum—life in prison on each charge. William and Cynthia Bennet were walking along Riverside Parkway near the Goose Creek bridge early in the morning on March 22, 2009, when a van passed them. It stopped. Roberts

CASTILLO >> 27

ROBERTS >> 45

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Friends of Michelle Castillo, including Sharon Supp and Melodie Mandanis at center, talk to the press on the last day of the five-week trial of Braulio M. Castillo. He was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his estranged wife, Michelle.

Jury Hands Down Guilty Verdict in Castillo Case BY PARISS BRIGGS

ne day after finding Braulio M. Castillo guilty of murder in his estranged wife’s 2014 death, tears were visible on the faces of jurors Tuesday morning as the couple’s children testified about the lasting impacts of the tragedy. Hours later, the jury unanimously recommended the 45-year-old spend the rest of his life in prison. During a five-week trial, county prosecutors presented evidence that Castillo broke into his wife’s Ashburn home, strangled and suffocated her in the mas-

ter bedroom and then moved her body to a basement bathroom where he staged a hanging suicide. The jury found him guilty of first-degree murder, breaking and entering and violation of a protective order. During the sentencing phase of the trial Tuesday, emotions ran high as a few of Michelle’s children and friends took the stand to tell jurors how her death has impacted them. Castillo’s oldest son, Nicholas, told the jury he hasn’t been able to sleep or think since his mother’s death. “I’ve lost track of time,” Nicholas said. “She was my mom and she got excited when I got

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Groundbreaking Celebrates the Future Academies of Loudoun BY DANIELLE NADLER

n a county that’s opened 20 new public schools in the past two decades, not one groundbreaking ceremony has been held. That changed Friday. School and county leaders, as well as several students, gathered on the 120acre construction site and future home of the Academies of Loudoun to celebrate a milestone in the decades-long effort to bring the specialty high school to fruition. “This is special,” Chairman Eric Hornberger (Ashburn) said at a groundbreaking celebration for the Academies of Loudoun on Friday. “There’s nothing like this anywhere in the country.” The Academies of Loudoun, slated to open in the fall of 2018, will house expanded versions of the existing Academy of Science and C.S. Monroe Technology Center, as well as a

FYI Academies of Loudoun By The Numbers 120 acres off Sycolin Road 315,000-square-foot facility 2,500 high school students will enroll and attend every other day $115.12 million, estimated total project new program called the Academy of Engineering and Technology. The 315,000-square-foot building along Sycolin Road south of Leesburg will have space to serve 2,500 students who attend classes there every other day, or 1,250 students per day. “This is a great day,” Superintendent

Eric Williams said. “The Academies of Loudoun will bring students together to innovate, to explore, to research and collaborate as they solve real STEM problems.” Local leaders have said the academies could rival Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology in Fairfax County. Loudoun foots the bill, at more than $13,000 per student, to send about 250 students there each year. “We’re going to bring all our kids home from Thomas Jefferson,” Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) said, with many gathered nodding in agreement. “This is monumental.” The project’s designers, Stantec Architecture, ventured far beyond the school system’s prototype school building designs to create a 315,000-squarefoot facility that will feel more like a

24 31

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ACADEMIES >> 40

Kerry, Jolie Urge Refugee Acceptance at Sterling Mosque BY DANIELLE NADLER

INDEX

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Actress and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Special Envoy Angelina Jolie, with U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry, speaks about the global refugee crisis at the All Dulles Area Muslim Society in Sterling on Monday.

Loudoun Gov..................... 6 Leesburg......................... 10 Sports............................. 14 Public Safety................... 16 Education........................ 20 Our Towns....................... 24 Biz.................................. 28 LoCo Living..................... 34 Loudoun Moment............. 38 Classifieds...................... 41 Opinion........................... 44

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REFUGEES >> 27

Playwrights present theater with an edge

U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry and actress Angelina Jolie were in Loudoun on Monday to encourage interfaith leaders to continue to do all they can to welcome refugees displaced from war-torn countries. Kerry and Jolie, joined by several area religious leaders, spoke at the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, the second largest mosque in the country. They took part in an iftar, the meal eaten by Muslims after sunset during Ramadan, and highlighted World Refugee Day. Just hours before their visit, the United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees had reported that the number of refugees, asylum-seekers and internally displaced people around the world had topped 65 million, the highest on record.

‘A LONG TIME COMING’

More breweries on tap for eastern Loudoun

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Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Superintendent Eric Williams, far left, and Loudoun County School Board members officially broke ground on the Academies of Loudoun on Friday. The specialty high school is scheduled to open in fall of 2018.

June 23 – 30, 2016

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A doe stands along the waters edge in land that is now part of a state park. The property borders the Appalachian Trail and includes former farms, woods and meadows.

Vision for State Park in Northern Loudoun Comes to Fruition Loudoun County is officially home to a state park, following a June 14 deed recording. Gov. Bob McDonnell announced plans for the park in northwestern Loudoun just before leaving office in 2014. Since then, efforts have focused on transferring the assemblage of land on the Blue Ridge to the state government. The Robert and Dee Leggett Foun-

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Arcola Polling Place Moved

Arcola-area voters who previously cast ballots at the Arcola Volunteer Fire Department will vote at Madison’s Trust Elementary School in November. The Board of Supervisors approved the Loudoun County Electoral Board’s unanimous recommendation June 15. Precinct 317 will now be known as Madison’s Trust, although the precinct’s boundaries are unchanged. “It’s not something we normally do during our presidential election year, but the Old Arcola precinct seems to be a safety hazard,” said Elections and Voter Registration Director Judith Brown. Concerns around traffic, parking, and accessibility for voters with disabilities prompted the change.

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Nassim Sultan preps a batch of beer at Lost Rhino Brewing Company in Ashburn.

New Rules Clear Hurdles for More Eastern Loudoun Breweries BY RENSS GREENE

he Board of Supervisors has opened the door to more craft breweries in eastern Loudoun with a new set of rules adopted last week. The Zoning changes allow craft beverage entrepreneurs to set up shop in most areas zoned for commercial uses. The operations, which will be limited to production of 15,000 barrels of beer or 36,000 gallons of distilled spirits per year, are smaller than the commercial breweries already permitted in eastern Loudoun and the farm breweries that have popped up in rural areas. Neighborhood conflicts involving some of the rural breweries were raised by speakers during last week’s hearing on the new regulations and prompted the board to limit the location of craft breweries to properties served by public water and sewer service. Even that workaround, however, has its critics. Zicht Engineering owner Eric Zicht pointed out that, by state law, farm breweries are allowed by right in the west’s agricultural districts without the water and sewer connection requirement. “I’ve got a client that has a property that’s zoned RC at Hamilton Station,” Zicht said during a public hearing last week. “He’s surrounded by [agricultural zoning], where farm breweries can go in by right, they don’t have to be on public water. … He’s zoned rural commercial. It belongs on this tract. He can put in a restaurant, so it could have the same type of impact, but he can’t put in this new craft brewery. It doesn’t make sense.” Other speakers took the opportunity to complain about existing small-scale

breweries in the west, which have been allowed under different zoning rules, including several who live near Old 690 Brewing Company near Hillsboro. “The weekends are dreaded, sunny days are dreaded,” neighbor Charlie Altman said. “The horse is out of the barn in our neighborhood; I realize that.” He and others living along Ashbury Church Road asked the board to carefully regulate craft breweries. Some, like Maura Walsh-Copeland, asked the board to turn down the new zoning outright. “I implore the board to have the testicular courage to ask to see our evidence,” she said. Both others agreed with board Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) that the new law would bring economic development. Tom Burson, who owns property along Ashburn Road in old Ashburn, said he would “very much” like to put a craft brewery in the old mill building there. “I have been trying for over two years now to look for ways that I can open a small brewery in old town Ashburn,” said Roland Rivera, the prospective owner of that brewery. “I’ve been doing the research. I’ve got help from other breweries.” Rivera said the only thing preventing him from opening is zoning law. Gem Bingol, a land use officer with the Piedmont Environmental Council, said it would be important for the county to give people a chance to comment on craft breweries. “What I’m saying in short is, you want to encourage the brewery industry in Loudoun County, but it will definitely affect residents, and it’s important to hear their concerns in a full public process before making any decisions,” Bin-

gol said. The new zoning rule was approved 7-1-1, with Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) absent and Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) opposed. “I was listening to people, and a lot of the concern was about having enough time to speak about an application, and that a minor special exception doesn’t give the public enough time to fully understand an application,” Umstattd said. The new rule allows craft breweries in light industrial districts through a minor special exception, which requires only a Board of Supervisors public hearing rather than both a board and Planning Commission hearing. It allows craft breweries by right in rural commercial and commercial planned development districts, and through a normal special exception process on land zoned for office parks and general business uses. Under the rules, tasting rooms will be limited to less than half of total floor area or 5,000 square feet, whichever is less. Craft breweries and distilleries will be subject to similar rules to restaurants in terms of lighting, setbacks, and exterior seating. The new law does not affect existing breweries, which were established under other, existing zoning rules. “I brought this item back in year four of the last board’s term primarily to try to stimulate some economic development in the eastern part of the county,” Buona said. “I do share the concerns, and when the issue of farm breweries comes up, we will deal with those issues, but that’s not where we are right now,” said Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large). rgreene@loudounnow.com

The county government will likely pay Columbia Gas Transmission $1.7 million to relocate two natural gas pipelines so that work can continue on Claiborne Parkway. “I really feel that Columbia Gas has us by the throat,” board Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) said during last week’s finance committee meeting. “Not only do we have to pay them what we have to pay them, but we’re at their mercy on schedule, too, it looks like.” He also noted that Columbia Gas would be able to issue another invoice for any cost overruns after relocating the lines. The utility maintains sole control over work on its lines and the contractors that do it. The county previously looked for ways around Columbia Pipeline Group’s $1.8 million price tag to move two gas pipelines for the Mooreview Parkway project. The county could find no way around CPG’s control over pricing and eventually paid Columbia’s price. The finance committee recommended that the full Board of Supervisors approve the expenditure. The $1.7 million will come out of the $6.1 million account balance in the Claiborne Parkway project.

Supervisors Rewrite the Deal for Visit Loudoun Visit Loudoun will revisit its agreement with the county government every four years instead of five, aligning that schedule with Board of Supervisors’ terms. Visit Loudoun receives 75 percent of its revenues from the county’s transient occupancy tax (TOT), in exchange for serving as the primary travel and tourism marketing body BRIEFS >> 8

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Conservation Coalition Calls to Keep Short Hill Project Down BY RENSS GREENE

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Although AT&T has withdrawn its application to build a massive aboveground facility on top of Short Hill Mountain, the Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition wants the Board of Supervisors’ opposition to the project on the record, instead of merely allowing the company to back away. “We believe that regardless of AT&T’s withdrawal of the application that there was ample evidence to overrule the Commission Permit ‘as not being in substantial accord with the Comprehensive Plan,’” the coalition’s Short Hill Committee wrote in a letter to the Board of Supervisors. It said the board has “a strong legal foundation” to deny the project’s commission permit. The commission permit allows the company to construct a 160,000-square-foot building on its 176-acre property where it developed an underground switching station in the 1960s. AT&T claimed the proposed expansion would be a “vital part of our global telecom-

munications network” and specially denied speculation that the facility would serve as a data center—a use not permitted in Loudoun’s rural areas. The proposal sparked strong community opposition. Former Planning Commission chairman Al Van Huyck announced the creation of the Short Hill Committee of the coalition at the Board of Supervisors’ June 7 meeting, promising to offer county leaders “a well-researched and documented set of findings to deny the permit.” Van Huyck said he doesn’t expect the board to vote down the commission permit based on its merits instead of its withdrawal, but said having the research done prepares the county if AT&T makes another attempt. “When they suspended it and withdrew it, it just took all the air out of the situation for the board, and it gives them an easy path,” Van Huyck said. Under the commission permit

The committee that, over the next year and a half, will shape the county’s guiding community development policies started work Monday. “This is going to be, I think, an exciting process, but not a short process, and not one that won’t require some commitment,” said County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) during the three-hour organizational meeting of the 26-member stakeholders committee. The panel anticipates working for at least 18 months. The committee starts with a handful of empty seats. Two of its members, Aaron Gilman from the Sterling District and Chad Campbell from the Blue Ridge District, attended the session but have not yet been officially confirmed by the Board of Supervisors. The com-

mittee is also still seeking a representative from the Catoctin District and a representative from the Northern Virginia Regional Parks Authority. “It is a blessing for us as a county that we have so many people that are willing to give their time and their talents for our community,” Supervisor Suzanne M. Volpe (R-Algonkian) said. The committee will spend at least 13 months developing the new comprehensive plan. After that, the recommendations will go to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors for consideration and adoption, a process that could take four months. It includes representatives from each county election district, two planning commissioners, and representatives from special industries from Realtors, to airports, to

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the Loudoun Preservation and Conservation Coalition. “It’s important that we value the differences here, because I think that we’re going to have a lot of healthy discussions around the table here,” Planning and Zoning Director Ricky Barker said. The review of the comprehensive plan is focused on the eastern areas of the county, although a recent debate over AT&T’s proposal to expand its facility on top of Short Hill Mountain caused Rural Economic Development Council Chairman Destry Jarvis to suggest that Loudoun’s west may need another look, too. “The statement that, that permit application was fully compatible with the comprehensive plan set my committee off to say, how could that possibly be compatible with the comprehensive plan?” Jarvis said of the 160,000-square-foot, industrial-style proposed facility. “And if it is, we need to change the comprehensive plan. So I would urge that we not completely leave the rural policy area out of the comprehensive plan, as if it needs no attention whatsoever.” The committee will meet on at least the third Monday of every month. Its next meeting will be July 18, where it will take up concerns with the current plan. rgreene@loudounnow.com

of the county. In fiscal year 2017, Visit Loudoun is expected to have a $3.1 million budget, $2.9 million of which will come from the county’s hotel tax. The board’s finance committee recommended that Visit Loudoun’s memorandum of understanding be renewed for one more five-year term this year, and for four-year terms thereafter, beginning in 2021. The committee also recommended transferring a share of TOT funds to Visit Loudoun and the Department of Economic Development to cover international travel expenses.

Loudoun to Revise International Sister City System Loudoun County will reorganize its sister city program after Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) raised questions about the partnerships early in her term. County staff will designate some of its six sister partnerships as “active”—those involving visits of elected representatives and staff; student and cultural exchanges; and collaboration on economic development. The finance committee will review the designations annually, and County Administrator Tim Hemstreet will designate a primary point of contact for requests from active

sister cities. The county maintains sister city partnerships with the district of Main-Taunus-Kreis, Germany; Goyang City, South Korea; Gangneung City, South Korea; New Taipei City, Taiwan; Shunyi District, China; and Karsiyaka Municipality, Turkey. According to a county staff report, with the exception of the Chinese and Korean partnerships, the sister city partnerships are mostly focused on cultural, educational, and staff exchanges. If the board’s finance committee recommendation is approved by the board, the county staff will return to the finance committee with a proposed list of active partnerships. Randall also suggested some funding for the sister cities program should come from the county budget, rather than her district office budget. Hemstreet cautioned that expenses related to cultural and ceremonial aspects of the partnership were not appropriate for the general county budget and should come from the supervisors’ operational accounts.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection in South Riding The Loudoun County government will offer a household hazardous waste collection at Freedom High School on Saturday, June 25,

from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Material that will be collected and safely disposed of includes fluorescent light bulbs, dry-cell batteries, oil-based paint/stain/varnish, paint thinner, mineral spirits, metal polish, rust remover, wood strippers and preservatives, furniture polish, waxes, sealants and solvents, bleach, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fertilizer, pool chemicals, muriatic acid, ammonia, mercury thermometers and thermostats, gasoline, gasoil mixes, expired fuel, auto cleaners and flushes, brake and transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, fire extinguishers, moth balls, pet care products, and photo chemicals.   The limit is 15 gallons of liquid and 40 pounds of solid waste per household. Participants must have proof of Loudoun County residency such as a vehicle decal or applicable town sticker.   Motor oil, antifreeze, automobile batteries, lead-acid batteries including household computer backups, and propane tanks will not be accepted, but can be recycled at the Loudoun County Solid Waste Management Facility, 21101 Evergreen Mills Road south of Leesburg. For more information about the Household Hazardous Program, call 703-771-5500 or go to loudoun.gov/ hhw.

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“SUSPENDING IT KIND OF LEAVES US ALL, SHALL WE SAY, IN SUSPENSE.” Van Huyck pointed out that the company has not submitted plans to deal with water runoff or wells, and that the coalition’s hydrologists see serious problems with the project. “Nobody should be allowed to come up for a commission permit until all the development issues have been studied and resolved,” Van Huyck said. “In this case, they were coming for a commission permit, and then they would go to a site plan, and who knows how many of these questions would get answered.” The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on the permit June 23. The letter and Van Huyck thanked the board members for their work on the project, especially western supervisors Geary M. Higgins (R-Catoctin) and Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge). The Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition is an organization of 30 nonprofit organizations focused on Loudoun’s history and environment.

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

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process, once the Planning Commission approves a permit, the Board of Supervisors has 60 days to overturn or ratify the commission’s decision; without action the permit automatically takes effect. If the board were to overturn the permit based on the merits of the application, rather than AT&T’s request to withdraw, it would need to be prepared to defend its decision in court. On the other hand, as County Attorney Leo Rogers explained, if the board overturns the permit, AT&T would at least need to address the county’s findings for denial if it decides to reapply. “If the board turns down an application because it is withdrawn, then the applicant can reapply with essentially the same application or with changes as it deems appropriate,” Rogers said. Van Huyck pointed out that AT&T said it was “suspending” its plans in the withdrawal letter to the county. “Suspending it kind of leaves us all, shall we say, in suspense,” Van Huyck said. “It’s not at all clear. I mean, they did not say we’re done. What they really clearly interpreted was that they weren’t going to get it voted favorably, and so they suspended it to avoid a negative vote on its merits.” The letter says that the committee has found many reasons to overturn the permit, all related to the county’s comprehensive plan, against which commission permits are judged. The

committee says the Short Hill project doesn’t meet the comprehensive plan’s requirements for compatibility with the rural quality of life, protection of mountainsides, stormwater runoff and sewage; and that the proposed facility would not serve county residents.

June 23 – 30, 2016

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s a vote on whether to allow the proposed Crescent Parke development looms, one Leesburg resident with some personal history with the park at its core is not convinced that the development proposed to surround Olde Izaak Walton Park is the right one for it. Scott Billigmeier was a central figure behind the 30-year lease agreement the Town of Leesburg signed with a property owner for Olde Izaak Walton Park in 2000. The town resident took an interest in seeing the vacant land be used as a town park when it was put up for sale in the late 1990s. “There were kids playing. There was wildlife there. It was kind of bucolic,” he reflected recently. After noticing for sale signs on the property, Billigmeier began making some calls to see if there was any way the property could be used as a town park. He had only lived in the town a short time, having moved to Leesburg in 1995, and admittedly did not know a whole lot about the legislative process and how these decisions were made. But he was persistent and dogged in his desire to see the land stay passive and be open for town residents to enjoy. He credits John Elgin, then the chairman of the town’s Park and Recreation Commission, for being a “coach” of sorts in how to navigate the process, and it was he who suggested Billigmeier start a petition. He did just that, and the petition garnered hundreds of signatures and quickly caught the attention of the Town Council. It was about a two- to three-year process, owing largely to lengthy negotiations between the council and the property owner, talks of which Billigmeier was not a part. But now, more than halfway into the town’s three-decade lease of the park land, Billigmeier has again turned his eyes to the park land, with a potential rezoning at risk of significantly impacting the park. The 53-acre Crescent Parke application seeks approval for 198 side-by-side

townhouses, 96 stacked townhouses and 96 multifamily dwelling units. Nonresidential uses would include a maximum of 110,550 square feet of office space, 137,175 square feet of retail, an area for a future hotel, and a 2,000-square-foot community room. The land stretches from the terminus of Gateway Drive to Davis Drive along the edge of the Leesburg Bypass. The property also includes the Olde Izaak Walton Park, and current proffers entail that the developer will donate the park land to the town, thereby negating the remaining years of the lease. Billigmeier said he met with developer Hobie Mitchel and planner Christine Gleckner, of Walsh Colucci, to go over the plans for the project. In the meeting, and also shared with Loudoun Now, Billigmeier sounded serious concerns with the proposed development and its impact on the park. Chief among them are the overall density of the development and its proximity to the waterline. “If you’re anywhere in the park in my view you shouldn’t see this. There should be a lot of buffer left along the water line. They should taper the profile of the buildings so the closer you are to water the lower you are to make them not so visible,” he suggested. Billigmeier said he is also very concerned about the impact of the development on the Goose Creek watershed, as well as lighting and noise pollution. He, as council members and Planning Commissioners also have, pointed to needed improvements in the park and the lack of any proffers for enhancements or repairs to the pond and the multipurpose building inside the park. At the most recent council meeting, Gleckner said the developer wished to revise the proffers and asked for a delay on the rezoning application, which is expected to back before the council soon. While Gleckner did not go into detail about all the possible revisions, one change she did identify last week was the addition of a study, conducted by a third party expert, to find out what changes should be implemented to adIZAAK WALTON PARK >> 12

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A Leesburg shipping center and postal supplies store will be closing for good at month’s end. The Mail Stop, which current owner Michele Depue says has been in operation at its Edwards Ferry Road location for at least 20 years, will cease operations at close of business June 30. Depue, who purchased the business along with her husband in 2008, pointed to rising rental costs and the proliferation of Internet sales as the main reasons for the closure. When Depue and her husband purchased The Mail Stop, plans were for her husband to run the store, along with another online business. He died just four months after the purchase, leaving Depue to run the store on her own. And she has done so since then, but decided that with the business loan paid off and no desire to sign a lease extension that would have commanded a

higher rate it was time to look for a new start. Depue said she tried to sell the business but could not find any buyers. In addition to packing and shipping services and supplies, The Mail Stop offers notary services, document shredding, mailbox rentals and even sold lottery tickets for a while. With two of her three children out of the house, Depue is planning a move to Florida to be closer to family after the store closes. With word of the closing spreading amongst loyal customers, Depue said she has had many tell her how much they will miss the store. “My repeat customers have always been very wonderful. They’re very loyal and appreciate the extra mile I always go to make sure their packages get to where they’re going,” Depue said. For those wanting to catch Depue and The Mail Stop before it closes, the shop is located at 932 Edwards Ferry Road NE in the Shenandoah Square shopping center.

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911 Ride Prepares For Curtain Call KARA C. RODRIGUEZ A popular annual tradition, in remembrance of those who perished on Sept. 11, 2001, will ride through Leesburg for the last time this August. The America’s 9/11 Ride annually draws hundreds, and sometimes more than 1,000 motorcycle riders, in a route that passes through the three sites befallen by terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 – the Pentagon in Washington, DC, the World Trade Center in New York City, and Somerset, PA, where Flight 93 crashed. The ride has passed through Leesburg since 2005 and draws throngs of spectators out onto King Street, many waving American flags, patriotic signs and shouting well wishes and words of appreciation to those riding through town. For many residents, and ride participants, the annual pass through Leesburg has become a highlight. Ride organizer Ted Sjurseth, a Lucketts resident, gets choked up reflecting on the outpouring of support he and others have received from Leesburg residents and visitors on the ride’s annual trek through town. Most notably in 2011, ahead of the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks, the Virginia State Police had advised against allowing the ride to pass through downtown Leesburg, instead suggesting the route be changed to the Leesburg Bypass, owing to the large turnout of bikers expected. But the Leesburg Town Council, amidst pressure from residents and race supporters to keep the route as it was, held firm, allowing the route to stay on King Street. And their support was vindicated when the long delays and traffic impacts the state police predicted did not come to fruition, as Sjurseth had insisted it wouldn’t. While support from Leesburg for the race has not waned, the logistics of organizing the annual ride has gotten more complicated and costs have risen, Sjurseth said. This year alone, given that it is the ride’s last and participation is again expected to be high, Sjurseth estimates that toll costs for riders will be around $60,000. When he started this ride two months after the 2001 terrorist attacks, it was just Sjurseth and his wife, two people who loved to ride and wanted to do something in remembrance of the fallen, organizing the

Courtesy photo

911 riders will rumble through Leesburg for the last time this fall.

endeavor. Two years later, Sjurseth started a 501(c)(3) foundation, America’s 911 Foundation, Inc., to support first responders and their families. Since its inception, more than $300,000 in college scholarships have been given away to children of first responders and 14 new police Harley-Davidson motorcycles have been donated to participating police departments. Sjurseth said he hopes the foundation can continue without the annual ride, and still provide the college scholarships it has over the years. But as he and his wife have moved onto a different stage of life, now being grandparents, they are hoping to refocus all on the time and energy it takes in planning the annual ride on their own family. Already 1,400 riders have signed up to participate in this year’s ride, which will pass through Leesburg on Friday, Aug. 19, at around 2 p.m., Sjurseth estimates. He is asking town and county residents to flank the streets for a final time, to give riders one last memorable send-off. “I want Leesburg to turn up like never before,” he said. “I want to make sure it’s curb to curb people so these [riders] get a thank you, a ‘we remember you.’”

Izaak Walton Park << FROM 10 dress storm water concerns within the property. Lansdowne Development Group President Hobie Mitchel, the developer behind Crescent Parke, says his team is sensitive to Olde Izaak Walton Park. Proposed homes were moved farther away from the edge of the pond to allow for a buffer between units and the water line, a tree preservation area was added, and the development as proposed will leave the parkland untouched. Mitchel said his understanding is that town parks staff wants to see the park remain a passive use, and the comments he has heard from town representatives and the public is to make sure that the dog park remains as is. Billigmeier says he could see himself not outrightly opposing the application were some changes made to its impacts to the park. He also suggests the town could have the credit capability to explore buying the park land itself, with more of a buffer around it to negate future development impacts. krodriguez@loudounnow.com ABOUT THIS SERIES:

Loudoun Now will take a close look at some key properties in the Town of Leesburg. Many of these properties have the potential, some with active plan review applications, to be the site of some major development, or redevelopment, projects in the town.

Town Gears Up for July 4 Festivities

er band Blue Label will begin at 6:30 p.m. A full food court will be onsite with funnel cakes, shaved ice, hot dogs and more. The biggest bang of the evening begins at 9:30 p.m. when the largest fireworks show in the region will light up the sky. Parking is available at the interior lots off Ida Lee Drive, and the festival field parking off King Street. Town staff will work hard to ensure that as many vehicles as possible are parked in the park, so attendees are asked to be patient while waiting to enter and exit. Designated crosswalks should be used by pedestrians. Coolers and large bags are permitted but will be checked at gate entrances. Pets, alcohol, glass bottles and personal fireworks (including sparklers) are not permitted. In the event of rain, fireworks will be rescheduled for July 5 at 9:30 p.m. No other activities will be rescheduled. Check the Town of Leesburg Facebook page (facebook.com/ LeesburgVirginia) and Twitter account (@TownofLeesburg) for weather updates.

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

The Town of Leesburg will offer a full day of Independence Day activities on Monday, July 4. Festivities begin with the annual Independence Day Parade, beginning at 10 a.m. along King Street. The parade will start at Ida Lee Park and conclude at Fairfax Street. This year’s parade will also feature the annual Patriot’s Cup Competition, sponsored by Loudoun Now. The award will go to the best parade entry and the winner’s name will be engraved on the Patriot Cup and displayed in the Town Hall trophy case. Prior to the parade, the American Originals Fife and Drum Corps will perform at the intersection of King and Market streets. Sponsored by Toth Financial, this traditional military-style music group adds a patriotic sound to the parade and is a favorite among parade viewers. Plan to arrive downtown by 9:45 a.m. to hear the fife and drums before the parade kicks off. There is no entry fee to participate in the parade. Those interested should contact Ida Lee Park Recreation Center at 703-777-1368 for an application or go to idalee.org for an online version. King Street will close to through-traffic at 9:30 a.m. in preparation for the parade. Downtown streets will re-open at approximately 11:30 a.m. Evening activities commence at 6 p.m. when the gates open at Ida Lee Park. Be sure to arrive early and grab a spot on the lawn for a full night of fun, food and music. A concert by the cov-

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Evergreen FC coaches Ian Bishop, left, and James Meara say youth soccer needs to put player development above trophies.

Next-Level: Evergreen Hammers Host Final Game Saturday BY NORMAN STYER There will be one last chance on Saturday for this year’s crop of up-and-coming soccer talent to compete as the Premier Development Soccer League wraps up its season. Since May, some of the nation’s top collegiate soccer players have competed as the Evergreen Hammers, taking on other mid-Atlantic teams while continuing to hone their skills through the summer with an eye to joining the professional ranks in Major League Soccer or in Europe. Ian Bishop and James Meara are the coaches who signed on to help the players achieve those goals, and they are part of a broader effort at the Evergreen Sports Complex to improve the area’s youth soccer offerings. Both bring years of experience to the task—not just playing the sport on a large stage, but also recognizing and training talented players to reach the next level of competition. Bishop played for West Ham United and Man City in Europe’s Premier League. Meara played for Watford FC and the Doncaster Rovers. They came to the states to develop soccer talent and, starting last year, signed on at Evergreen to lead its academy-style youth program. Bishop and Meara said the first season for the Hammers has been challenging, particularly since the group is playing together for the first time and has few opportunities to practice together. The team has compiled a 2-5-2 record with five games remaining. (They were scheduled to play Ocean City, NJ, at home Tuesday night.) In the home finale on Saturday, the Hammers take on the New York Red Bulls starting at 8 p.m. The season wraps up July 17 in New Jersey. While they enjoy the challenge of coaching the college-age players in the PDL system, Bishop and Meara were drawn to Evergreen because of its focus on developing youth talent. The quality of the training facilities and the center’s four FIFA-certified fields added to the attraction. Bishop is pushing for fundamental improvements in the U.S. soccer system— both at the youth level and in college. In general, he said youth soccer teams are too focused on winning trophies and often hinder top players from honing their skills against tougher competition. And college players are missing out on prime years when they could be playing profes-

sionally—starting in their teens. The collegiate system doesn’t help the best soccer players move to the professional level as it does in other sports, Bishop said. “It’s become more of a hindrance and I think the professional clubs have started to recognize that. Twenty-two or 23 years old is a bit late to be starting a professional career,” he said. “Nobody’s saying it can’t be done. It’s just the four to five years that you’ve missed—that is a lot of knowledge that has been left away from you.” He also sees the emphasis of youth leagues as missing the mark when it comes to developing talent. “Everybody wants to play in a league. Everybody wants to win games. Everybody wants to go to work and say how good their child was at the weekend,” he said. At Evergreen, Bishop and Meara are advocating a different approach. “We’re saying the emphasis should be on technical development at the younger ages and not so much on bringing a trophy home from the tournament. That’s nice for the kids to do that, but ultimately if you want to develop players to a professional or collegiate level, then you have to find out what’s important,” Bishop said. “We want the sport to grow here. We don’t want to be seen as shooting it down all the time. It is growing. It could just grow at a faster rate if things were adjusted at the youth level.” While Evergreen’s focus is on youth sports, the PDL team gets notice, both from professional scouts in the stands at games—some 70 percent of Major League Soccer recruits come from PDL teams—and from the youth players who get to interact with the college players and gain an understanding of the opportunities the sport offers. Carolyn Dobson, Evergreen’s vice president of marketing, sees the impact the PDL player has on her son, Tyler, who plays on the U15 team. “He sees these guys out here. He sees, that could be me if I put in the work,” she said. “To see the career path, and to see that people who are from Loudoun County and who are going to the high schools that these kids are going to, is important.” As Evergreen develops its PDL program, Bishop and Dobson said the community will be getting to know the players better, not just at youth camps, but also helping with charities and community events. nstyer@loudounnow.com

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[ PUBLIC SAFETY ] Body of Missing Leesburg Teen Found in WVA Field Investigators have identified a body found in a West Virginia field June 3 as that of a missing Leesburg teen. Carlos Armando Otero-Henriquez, 18, was reported missing May 23 by a family member. His body was found in Jefferson County. According to the Leesburg Police Department, the in- Carlos Armando vestigation into the Otero-Henriquez death is being conducted with the assistance of multiple law enforcement agencies, but additional details of the case would not be released at this time. Investigators are asking anyone with information about the case to call the department immediately at 703771-4500. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call the Leesburg Crime Line at 703-443-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent via TIPSUBMIT. Text “LPDTIP” plus your message to 274637.

Cold Case Effort Lands Indictment in 1988 Murder Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office Cold Case detectives notched a victory last week when a grand jury handed up an indictment for the suspect in a 28-year-old murder. Timothy W. Warnick, 58, has been charged with first-degree murder and robbery in the 1988 death of Henry E. Ryan. If convicted, he faces a sentence of 20 years to life in prison. Warnick is in custody in Florida on unrelated charges and the timing of his extradition to Virginia was not immediately known. Ryan, 29, was last seen on Sept. 30, 1988, leaving a roadside pull off along the Shenandoah River on Bloomery Road in West Virginia. Witnesses at the time said he went on a beer run with Warnick and another unidentified male. He did not return. On March 14, 1989, Ryan’s body was found in a shallow grave off of Rt. 9 in Loudoun County near the West Virginia border. An autopsy concluded he was murdered. Cold case detectives re-interviewed family members, friends, and witnesses and worked to establish a timeline of events leading up to Ryan’s death, with the evidence pointing to Warnick’s involvement. Sheriff Mike Chapman established the Cold Case unit after taking office in 2012. Investigators assigned to the unit are provided time to focus on unsolved death cases and to review evidence with the benefit of advances in technology and other investigative techniques. Chapman said bringing charges in Ryan’s case was gratifying. “We want to make sure that none of our victims are forgotten,” he said.

Deputy Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison A former Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office deputy was sentenced Friday to 36 months in prison for embezzling

money from the agency. During a March 31 trial, Frank Michael Pearson, 45, of Winchester, was found guilty of stealing $229,381 from the county’s asset forfeiture fund. In the June 17 sentencing hearing, Pearson also was ordered to repay that money. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, beginning in 2006 Pearson was designated as the deputy responsible for overseeing the asset forfeiture program. From early 2010 until October 2013, Pearson embezzled money that had been seized by other members of the Sheriff ’s Office in 80 separate cases. Pearson covered the thefts by making false statements to his coworkers and others about deposits to an escrow account maintained by the Sheriff ’s Office at a local bank. In two cases, prosecutors showed that Pearson reused an old deposit slip from an unrelated case and passed it off as a new deposit slip to conceal the fact that he had not deposited all of the money entrusted to him. In another instance, Pearson took money seized in one case and passed it off as money that had been seized in another case. When confronted by a supervisor about discrepancies with the account on Oct. 30, 2013, Pearson removed several boxes of money from the narcotics office where he worked and never returned to the office. Sheriff Mike Chapman testified at the sentencing hearing, telling the judge that the embezzlement put all the members of Pearson’s office under suspicion and required thousands of hours of investigators’ time to uncover. Chapman said it is always disappointing to see a law enforcement officer violate expectations for honesty and integrity. “When we find it, we take action and hold people accountable,” he said.

LCSO Issues Alert for Suspicious Man Who Approached Child The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who approached a young girl in the Lowes Island area. Investigators released a composite sketch of the suspect. The 8-year-old victim reported she was walking to school in the area of Saulty Drive and Mud- Suspect sought dy Harbor Square around 7:25 a.m. on June 9 when a man approached her and asked if she wanted to go to the store with him. The girl yelled and ran to school where she reported the incident to school personnel. The area was searched but no subject was located. The man was described as having medium to dark skin and was between 30 to 40-years-old. He was wearing a black baseball hat, a dark colored windbreaker, tan work pants and black dress shoes at the time of the incident. He had glasses and a mustache that curled at each end and was holding a black cane. PUBLIC SAFETY >> 18

June 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30, 2016

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

[ CRIME LOG ]

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. 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.” 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.

Saturday, June 11 SUSPICIOUS EVENT 22000 block of Sterling Boulevard, Sterling A man approached a girl and touched her on the nose and head. He then left the area.

Wednesday, June 15 ATTEMPTED BURGLARY 100 block of Briarwood Court, Sterling Someone shattered the glass of the home’s rear door and then was seen running toward the W&OD Trail.

CRASH Stone Spring Boulevard at Azalea Lane, Aldie Three people were injured when a driver lost control of his car, which veered onto the shoulder, rolled over and hit a utility pole. The driver was airlifted from the scene and was listed in serious condition. Two passengers also were hospitalized.

Monday, June 20 FRAUD

fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

20000 block of Erskine Terrace, Ashburn

FatHEr’S Day

Public safety

The resident received a voicemail from a caller who claimed to be “Officer Matthew Jones, badge #8947” from the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office. The caller claimed the IRS called the sheriff’s office to file a complaint because residents owed back taxes. The victim then made contact with who they believed was the IRS and purchased gift cards to pay the debt. When the IRS called back to demand more money, the victim recognized the calls as a scam.

CRASH Croson Lane at Moorefield Parkway, Ashburn The driver of a mini-van was charged with disregarding a stop sign after entering the intersection in the path of an SUV. The van rolled over as a result of the impact. A juvenile passenger was flown to an area hospital for treatment and was listed in stable condition. The driver also was charged with failing to use a child safety restraint.

LARCENY 22000 block of Allison Way, Ashburn A bicycle was taken from an open garage.

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<< FROM 16 Anyone with any information in the case is asked to call Detective R. Schmidt at 703-777-0475.

Sterling Teen Reported Missing The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance to help locate a Sterling teenager who was reported missing last Tuesday. Katie Zamora-Hernandez, 13, did not return to Katie Zamoraher East Charlotte Hernandez Road home after school June 14; it is believed she left on her own accord. She was reportedly seen at a shopping center and an apartment complex in the Sterling and Dulles area late last week. She had previously been reported missing before being located at a home in the Sterling area on June 10. She is described as a white female, 4-feet 11-inches tall with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black sleeveless V-neck dress, and was carrying a black and white backpack. Anyone with any information about the case is asked to call Deputy R. Garis at 703-777-0475.

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Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Logan McNabb, 11, shows off a sword he created in the Minecraft/Mindcraft camp offered by Loudoun Country Day School.

SUMMER SMARTS

FYI

Camps Keep Kids Thinking BY DANIELLE NADLER

his is not your daddy’s summer camp. Day camps in Loudoun are inviting kids to spend their months out of the classroom navigating a virtual pixilated world, fashioning a town out from boxes and rocks, or even learning to cast a spell on a friend. Loudoun Country Day School, a private school just south of Leesburg, offers more than 60 camps this summer, and several of them are designed to tap into kids’ creative side. Now through mid-August, the school will put on unusual camps, including coding, robotics, Minecraft/Mindcraft, Dino Discovery, “Roxaboxen” and Hogwarts’ Wild Wizardry. “When you think of summer camps, you think of outdoor adventure-type camps, but not all kids are into that stuff. So there’s this group of kids who are missing out,” camp counselor Cameron Kelahan said. “We’ve tried to really hone in on what those kids like.” Kelahan, 19, helped get the school’s Minecraft/Mindcraft camp off the ground last summer, and he’s seen a big surge in interest this year. Don’t know what Minecraft is? Ask any middle schooler—it’s all the rage. In short, it’s a videogame that allows users to create and explore a world made up of cubes, or pixels. At the Minecraft camp, participants can interact with each other, both virtually and in person, about the pixelat-

ed world they’re creating. Kelahan said it’s an opportunity to get young gamers out of their basement and with other kids who share similar interests. Logan McNabb, 11, said he loves Minecraft, but usually plays it at home by himself. “I wanted to come here to play with friends,” he said. But he added a warning, “One minute you and your friend can be allies in Minecraft and the next you can’t trust them. Because they might kill you.” On the opposite end of the spectrum is a camp that avoids any technology. Based on the book “Roxaboxen,” the camp challenges kids to create a town out of boxes, rocks, bottle caps and other found things. The participants become residents in their makeshift community; they create their own bartering system, and they can vote on

their roles and what to build. “We help cut the boxes with a box cutter, but otherwise it’s all child driven,” said Reneé Kelahan, librarian at the school who runs the “Roxaboxen” camp and several others. “I love it because it shows kids they don’t need to rely on technology to have fun.” Kelahan also runs one of the program’s most popular camps, Hogwarts’ Wild Wizardry, which has two sessions in late July and early August. The camp gives third- through sixth-graders an opportunity to experience a week in Harry Potter’s shoes. They get their own wand, read through a magic potion book, cook magical snacks and try their hand at the quidditch, the sport featured in the book series. Kelahan said the book-inspired camps are her favorite, and have always

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Zoe Bredesen, 12, takes a virtual adventure via Minecraft at a summer camp put on by Loudoun Country Day School.

Loudoun Country Day School’s camps are open to all schoolage children, not just students of the private school. See more details at LCDS.org/summer. been her children’s favorite. “I hope it inspires a love of books and creativity,” she said. “We want to show them that their imagination is the most powerful form of excitement.” Randy Hollister, headmaster at Loudoun Country Day School, said the school tries to offer a camp for everyone. It does have the more widely offered camps, focused on sports and outdoor adventures. But he’s found the most popular camps are those that provide out-of-the-box experiences, a result of the camp counselors’ hard work and creativity, Hollister said. “These are full on, robust, high-octane experiences,” he said. “It’s so far beyond the typical, ‘come out and we’ll do a lot of playing and then you’ll go home.’” He wants to see students experiencing a week of unforgettable fun and learning. “When I think about the audience we serve in this area, these are the kinds of high-end, really creative and productive experiences folks are looking for.” Space is still available in six of the camps, including chess, drama and fencing. Cost ranges from $100 to $400. See more details at LCDS.org/ summer. dnadler@loudounnow.com

See the full list of retirees at LoudounNow.com/Education. Courtesy of Loudoun County Public Schools

Schools Chip Away at Insurance Fund Deficit

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dnadler@loudounnow.com

The county’s school system is making progress to dig its self-insurance fund out of a $17.5 million hole. The Loudoun County School Board agreed at a meeting last week to earmark an estimated $5.2 million in surplus funds from fiscal year 2016 to the deficit. Three years ago, the schools’ budget managers told the board that the division had been hit unusually hard with insurance costs, sending it $14 million in the hole. Over the next year, the problem grew worse and the fund fell $17.5 million in the red. Then, gradually, the school system started to see the positive effects of changes made to employees’ health insurance options. In 2014, the School Board voted to no longer subsidize the more expensive of two health care plans offered to employees. “Through those changes, we were able to stop the slide, and we were actually able to start to recover,” School Board member Jeff Morse (Dulles) said. The fund also got a boost when the Board of Supervisors, last year, agreed to give the schools $7 million in county funds toward the deficit. Now, the fund shortfall sits at about $10 million. The $5.2 million fund balance will cut it in half. “We are still working on the self-insurance fund to ensure a positive fund balance,” Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services E. Leigh Burden assured the School Board at its June 7 meeting. “I believe in us getting our fiscal house in order as quickly as possible,” Morse added. “This will get us halfway there in one year, and the projections in the out years have us continuing to improve in that financial picture.” Chairman Eric Hornberger (Ashburn) agreed, “Seems like a responsible way to spend one-time revenue.” Burden estimates the school system will end fiscal year 2016 with a $12.2 million surplus. The board approved $7 million of that as carry over for use in the fiscal year 2017 budget.

BY DANIELLE NADLER

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Loudoun County Public Schools celebrated the careers of 192 employees who have retired this school year during a banquet held Friday at the Lansdowne Resort. The employees had a combined 3,516 years of service to Loudoun students. Two retiring employees tied for the most years of service: Loudoun County High School social studies teacher Patricia A. Simms and Waterford Elementary secretary Judith A. Florance, who are both retiring after 43 years of service.

June 23 – 30, 2016

School district honors 192 retirees

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[ SCHOOL NOTES ] Solutions Challenge Expands Statewide

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The program that invited Loudoun County students to come up with solutions to their schools’ most challenging problems will now be offered at every school system in Virginia. The Student Led Ideation Challenge will give 387,000 Virginia high schoolers a platform to pitch their creative solutions. The competition is put on by Leesburg-based Innovative Solutions Consortium and the Virginia Department of Education. The Innovative Solutions Consortium’s founder Ken Spedden describes the challenge as “a science fair on steroids.” In September, students will receive a challenge that they are encouraged to solve. They will work on their solutions throughout the school year, with the guidance of teachers, before presenting their ideas in May. The top eight projects will be presented at a one-day public event, and from there the students’ ideas could become functional prototypes. “This is another level of education for students—it’s about them coming up with solutions that impact the world they live in,” Spedden said. Spedden hasPMheard from top educa6/13/16 8:08

tors in 10 other states who want to host similar science, technology, engineering and mathematics-based challenge competitions, and his hope is to see every school system in the nation take part in the competition. “This could change how students engage nationally in STEM,” Spedden said.

Caroline Ehler

Sterling Student Competes in Outstanding Teen Pageant Dominion High School junior Caroline Ehler will compete in the Miss Virginia’s Outstanding Teen

pageant in Roanoke on Saturday. Caroline was crowned Miss Tyson’s Outstanding Teen in March and will take part in the next level of the competition this week to win the title of Miss Virginia’s Outstanding Teen, a division of the Miss America Scholarship Pageant. Caroline has a passion for math and wants to be a computer engineer. She is a member of the National and French honor societies, serves as Dominion’s vice president as well as class president, and has been a varsity cheerleader for three years. Her pageant platform is “Cheering Girls on to STEM.” Her goal is to get young children excited about math and science and for girls to know that they can be a cheerleader and love math and science. Caroline has spoken locally to elementary school children as well as performed with the Science Cheerleaders in Washington, DC, at the USA Science and Engineering Festival. The pageant includes a talent competition in which Caroline will play classical piano. She won first place for her talent in the Miss Northern Virginia’s Scholarship Pageant. Follow Caroline’s journey on Facebook at “Miss Tysons’ Outstanding Teen Caroline Ehler,” or on Instagram @ MissTysonsOT2016.

June 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30, 2016

loudounnow.com

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[ OUR TOWNS ]

Leaders Get Progress Report on Mayfair, Catoctin Corner

Lovettsville Council Gives Nod to Gas Pumps

BY MARGARET MORTON

bout 70 people attending the Purcellville Business Association’s monthly meeting last week at the Loudoun Golf and Country Club got a progress report on the Mayfair and Catoctin Corner developments. Dustin Dorph, Brookfield Homes’ project manager for Mayfair, said the project is proceeding well. The residential component of about 100 single-family homes and about 150 townhouses is located on the west side of Purcellville Road. The single-family homes are selling in the high $500,000s, while the townhomes are in the high $300,000s, Dorph said. About 13 townhomes are up, and six or seven singles are under construction. Mayfair also has a section of industrial lots, off East Nichols Lane. Some of the roughly 1- to 1.4-acre lots are already under contract, and Dorph said there had been a lot of local interest. The 19-acre site will include a large storm water retention pond. The property was annexed into town in 2013, and will be served by town water and sewer. Leasing agent Dallon Cheney said Catoctin Corner’s location across from the Purcellville Gateway shopping center is part of a “wonderful trade area,” with the intersection of Rt. 287 and Main Street providing extensive reach in all directions. “Purcellville is underserved,” he said, noting there has been strong retailer interest. He ticked off leases achieved with Manhattan Pizza, WINK Vision, an optometrist practice, Supercuts and Chipotle.

During its June 16 meeting, the Lovettsville Town Council ended months of debate by approving construction of a new 7-Eleven store along with installation of gas pumps. The proposal to install gas pumps at the northeast corner of Town Square and East Broad Way, brought both supporters and critics to a series of town meetings on the application. The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit in April after holding a public hearing in March. The town held its public hearing May 12 and after several council debates on the issue, voted 5-1 on June 16 to approve the application. Councilwoman Jennifer Jones was opposed, questioning whether the project fit the character the council is trying to create for the Town Square area. She suggested more discussion was needed to define the type of economic development the council wants to see there. In his weekly newsletter, Mayor Bob Zoldos said he was proud of the long deliberations on the 7-Eleven project that had resulted in some changes to improve the plan and provided the opportunity for everyone to air their opinions before the council made its decision. Zoldos said the commissioners and council members had taken a deliberative approach to work through all the concerns that included personal safety, the safety of the town’s watershed and whether a gas station should be in that location. The applicant had addressed the location concern by putting the gas pumps out of sight from the Town Square, upgraded the look of the building, and addressed safety concerns, he said. Zoldos said the new store should help downtown development with sidewalk and landscape improvements, and provision of a bike rest and repair station for cyclists.

IN WITH THE NEW

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Store fronts, including Manhattan Pizza, WINK Vision, Dunkin’ Donuts, Supercuts and Chipotle, will soon call Catoctin Corner home. The development sits on the corner of Rt. 287 and Rt. 7.

“We’re very excited about that. It’s the right market for Purcellville,” Cheney said. Also planned is a Dunkin’ Donuts with a drive through. Negotiations are ongoing for an urgent care center, a fast food outlet—although Project Manager Dexter Mumaw said, “we have no idea which one,” and a child care center. There will be a Shell gas station with a convenience store. A 4,500 square-foot restaurant also is under consideration. Cheney emphasized that while businesses are mostly national chains, they will be run by local franchisees. After site work is complete, construction is slated to start on the buildings late this year, with completion next spring. The Purcellville Board of Ar-

chitectural Review has given approvals on every building, while ensuring the design of the buildings are compatible with the agrarian theme of Gateway, the site of the former Cole Farm, company representatives said. “We see Catoctin Corner as an extension of Purcellville Gateway—businesses want to be here,” Cheney said. Mumaw echoed that statement this week, saying he was pleasantly surprised. “There’s a lot of interest in coming to Purcellville,” he said. “We talk to national chains—they say ‘what are you anchored with?’ Gateway has [Harris] Teeter and Chic-fil-A. We say we’re shadow anchored.” mmorton@loudounnow.com

Purcellville Council Adopts Budget, Utility Rate Hikes BY MARGARET MORTON Purcellville has an adopted budget for next year, but the Town Council is not done talking about it. During a sometimes testy meeting June 14, the council voted 5-2 to adopt the budget, including controversial utility rate increases. Mayor Kwasi Fraser and newly elected Councilwoman Kelli Grim opposed the spending plan. Vice Mayor Patrick McConville, Councilwoman Karen Jimmerson and Councilman John Nave voted to approve the budget. Town Manager Robert W. Lohr Jr. presented the budget in January and the council had shaved it down by $240,000 since then. The final version includes a $10.9 million General Fund, $540,000 in the Parks and Recreation Fund, $9 million Utility Fund spending and $1.2 million for capital projects. The council had been scheduled to adopt the budget at its May 31 work session, but the vote was delayed when Nave objected to the proposed 5 percent increase in sewer rates and a 3 percent increase in water rates. The new rates go into effect Oct. 1 for a bi-monthly billing. Under the changes,

current bi-monthly minimum bill (01,000 gallons) would rise from $50.63 to $51.53, an increase of 90 cents. The bi-monthly bill for 9,2000 gallons would rise from $228.41 to $236.98, an increase of $8.57. The 9,200 gallons billing is cited by the town’s rates advisor MSFG as typical household consumption in its forecast analysis. The bi-monthly billing for 15,000 gallons would rise from $382,85 to $368.40, an increase of $14.45. During last week’s meeting, Grim, who was elected to fill a vacant seat in May’s election, focused on the long-term challenges of operating the utility system and rejected assessments by the staff and town consultants that rates must increase annually unless more development happens in town. She pressed for other options. “This is not a plan for our future,” she said. Nave also asked what options the council had. In answer, Lohr said the town staff had looked at many ideas, some very creative, that could work to the town’s benefit, but they could take a long time to achieve. “There is no easy solution—I wish there was a rabbit to pull out of the hat,” he said. While the staff would continue to

look at other options and sources of income, Lohr warned that postponing the recommended rate increases would hurt the town. “If you keep the rates artificially low, and it doesn’t pan out, the fiscal impact will be significant, and we may be talking about an insolvent plant in five years,” he said. McCollum agreed that the council, facing a June 30 deadline to adopt the budget, could not change course this year. “This is the eleventh hour,” he said. “It’s too late—we’ve had the budget since early January.” Councilwoman Karen Jimmerson said she had mixed feelings on the issue but acknowledged the town’s responsibility to cover the cost of meeting the town expenses. “I don’t feel comfortable saying no,” she said. Fraser also questioned the proposed rate hikes over a period of years as recommended by the town’s financial and rates consultants to bring the utility system into balance. “When does it stop—it never stops,” he said, calling it a “strategy for growth, growth and growth … I don’t see an PURCELLVILLE BUDGET >> 25

mmorton@loudounnow.com

Credit Town of Lovettsville

Lovettsville’s new retail center, anchored by its distinctive clock tower, will be open for tours by prospective tenants over the next few weeks.

Hail Storm Causes Widespread Damage in Middleburg

Purcellville budget << FROM 24

Hailstones, some reported to be 4 inches, were the main causes of the destruction. Submitted

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

The storm also hit hard in Round Hill, Airmont and Philomont where wind gusts brought down numerous trees, prompting mail closures and causing

power outages, but those areas were spared hail damage.

end.” “There has been a strategy. You may not like it, but there is one,” Vice Mayor Patrick McConville said. Grim criticized the work of the town’s financial consultants, saying they should have provided more alternatives to rate hikes. The mayor said the new town council, which will have three new members beginning July 1, would study the issue in greater detail and come up with new answers. Grim also pressed for more budget cuts, proposing a list totaling $418,000 in cuts, many of which have already been addressed by the council, but none of her recommendations were adopted.

mmorton@loudounnow.com

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“We were just pummeled.” That was Middleburg Town Administrator Martha Mason Semmes’ reflection after a powerful June 14 storm left heavy damage—hundreds of smashed windows, downed trees and a collapsed roof—in its wake. Cleanup was continuing early this week as a street sweeper was still clearing debris Monday night. “We’re working it back as best as we can,” Semmes said. The morning after the storm, Semmes was among those who compared the damage to a “war zone.” This week, Semmes said she still could not calculate a preliminary damage estimate. The town’s insurance adjuster from the Virginia Municipal League is coming to assess the damage on Friday, she said. Large hailstones, some reported to be 4 inches, were the main causes of the destruction, leaving vehicle and building windows smashed, pockmarking siding, roofs and cars, and ripping gutters off. Among the damaged buildings was Mayor Betsy Davis’ The Fun Shop, where a portion of the roof caved in, and at the Pink Box tourist center. Most of the cars on Washington Street had their windows smashed or blown out entirely. Town Economic Development Coordinator Cindy Pearson said she was fortunate, owing to a lucky coincidence. “My car is fine. I was in Winchester that night, which I rarely go to.” She and Realtor Jim Herbert said the scene looked as if a machine gun had shot out all the car windows. The Middleburg Police Department sustained damage to the windows of three police cruisers. “We replaced one police car windshield, and another is being replaced today,” Semmes said Tuesday. Each of those repairs cost just less than $500. “You multiply that by hundreds of cars—at least 100 of them at Salamander Resort & Spa, and the damage is enormous,” Semmes said, her voice trailing off as she contemplated the huge costs ahead. The glass damage to buildings was also extensive, and Semmes marveled at the storm’s force that blew broken glass into other rooms. Rooftops were pockmarked, and in some cases, had holes driven through the metal. Federal Street Café, for instance, had a softball-sized hole in the roof, and sustained flooding inside. The building will be closed for a month or more, as will be The Fun Shop. The slate roof on the Health Center also sustained major damage. The town has approved a temporary permit to allow State Farm Insurance to set up a mobile service center at The Hill School to handle claims—so far about 100. Geico representatives also have been seen in town and there will be a lot of insurance companies involved eventually, Semmes predicted. Contractors have been coming into town looking for work, some of them being “a bit aggressive,” Semmes said, going door-to-door—so much so that police officers have had to chase off a few of them. Despite the devastation, “mercifully no one was hurt,” Semmes said. Now it’s a question of picking up the pieces and facing what is bound to be enormous damage costs.

Hail damaged several cars in Middleburg, including this one parked at Salamander Resort & Spa.

June 23 – 30, 2016

BY MARGARET MORTON

June 23 – 30, 2016

loudounnow.com

[ TOWN NOTES ] Lovettsville Council Adopts Budget Following an extensive budget process in which Town Manager Laszlo Palko presented eight spending options, the Town Council took only a short time to approve its fiscal year 2017 budget. The action holds General Fund spending level next year, but residents will see higher utility bills. The council approved a budget of $1.4 million for the General Fund, and $1.8 million in the Utility Fund. The budget takes a significant step to better balance its Utility Fund. “We’re increasing water and sewer 12 percent,” as part of the town’s intention to bring the system into balance, Palko said Monday, noting that was the largest increase contemplated. The council is eyeing annual rate increases of 3 percent through FY 2019 and then smaller increased linked to inflation after that, he said. The council intends to develop a plan, starting next year, to raise $4 million in the General Fund over a 30year period. The council also is looking at instituting a personal property tax rate and a trash fee, while reducing the real estate tax rate. Only Middleburg and Lovettsville do not have a personal property tax. “The big item to look at is trash. We can reduce the cost by sharing,” Palko said, noting the town paid 100 percent

of last year’s $115,000 trash bill, which has gone up 30 percent since 2008. “It will be even higher. We’ve added quite a bit of housing,” Palko said, estimating the town’s population is nearing 2,000. The real estate tax is 21 cents per $100 of assessed values. The meals tax is 3 percent, the Transient Occupancy Tax is 5 percent and the cigarette tax is 40 cents per pack.

Purcellville Town Honors Employees The Town of Purcellville held its annual Employee Appreciation and Awards Luncheon on June 15. The program was created more than a decade ago to celebrate the hard work, exceptional service and dedication to the community of its employees. Under the program, both anniversary milestones and exceptional attendance are recognized. Sheryl McIlvaine, executive assistant/project coordinator, Public Works, and Patrick Sullivan, director of Community Development, were recognized for five years’ service. Susan Elassal, MPO, Police Department, was honored for 10 years. Eight employees, who took fewer than two days of unscheduled leave, six of them only missing one day, also were honored: Joshua Goff, Public Works; Sean Grey, Maintenance; William Hall, Water; Officer Tim Hood,

Police; Officer Clark McDaniel, Police; Scott Miller, Maintenance; Lt. Joseph Schroeck, Police; and Alex Vanegas, Public Works. Three individual awards for exemplary overall performance and commitment to excellence are awarded each year. Nominations are submitted by staff, and the final list reviewed and award winners chosen by a panel. Sean Grey, crew leader, Maintenance, was named Field Operations Employee of the Year. Melanie Scoggins, event specialist, Parks and Recreation, was named Town Hall Employee of the Year. Connie LeMarr, assistant director of finance, received the coveted Doris Reed Management Excellence Award.

Entry Applications Sought for July 4 Parade The highlight of Purcellville’s Independence Day celebration is the parade, jointly sponsored by the Purcellville Volunteer Fire Company and the town government. Applications are being sought for this year’s July 4 patriotic march that will begin at 12:30 p.m. at Emerick Elementary School, and end at Loudoun Valley High School. Those selected as the three top patriotic-themed entries will be given a banner to carry during the parade. They will be selected by the parade committee as having the best creative, musical and patriotic decorations focusing on the 2016 theme: “Amazing

American Heroes.” The Purcellville Gazette will present the “Liberty Cup,” won last year by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, to the 2016 winner. Participants are encouraged to incorporate special effects, animation and the use of patriotic music and sound in their entries. To register, contact Purcellville Volunteer Fire Department Parade Chairman Donnie Embrey at 703-7277191 or forestffembrey@aol.com. To download an application, go to purcellvilleva.gov.

Hamilton Town Council Approves Budget The Town Council held an early morning session Monday to discuss adoption of the proposed fiscal year 2017 budget. The council adopted a $2,96 million budget, of which the General Fund accounted for $586,037, the Water Fund $780,143 and the Sewer Fund $531,798. The Capital Improvement Program accounted for $1,779,723. Total tax revenues are projected at $397,925. The real estate tax rate remains at 28 cents per $100 of assessed value, $1.10 for personal property tax, 2 percent for the Transient Occupancy Tax, and 4 percent for the meals tax. The town does not have a cigarette tax. After a short discussion the budget passed unanimously, with Councilman Dimitri Kesari absent.

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After having taco dinner with four of his five children on the night of March 19, 2014, Braulio Castillo had his sister take the children back to meet their mother at the Harris Teeter parking lot in Lansdowne. Then, prosecutors said, he snuck into Michelle’s house. Video from a neighbor’s security camera showed a man running near Michelle’s home just after 8 p.m. that night. Michelle’s body was found hanging from the shower in the basement the next day. For more than five weeks, jurors heard testimony from a variety of witnesses, including the Castillo’s friends and family, along with investigators and experts in different fields. A few key testimonies during the trial came from Zachary, Castillo’s second youngest son, and Silvia Anaya, the Castillo’s former maid. Zachary testified that he saw his father in the house on the night of his mother’s death, a statement which con-

In a post-trial press conference outside the courthouse, Senior Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Alex Rueda called Castillo’s acts heinous. “He deserved nothing less than a life sentence,” she said. Michelle’s friends, Sharon Supp and Melodie Mandanis, expressed support of the jury’s decision. “We are thrilled and rejoicing in today’s verdict. We would all agree that justice was served today,” Mandanis said. When asked if they had any words for Castillo, Supp said through tears, she hopes he repents. “One of the most unique things is that God commands us to love our enemies. The way we interpret that is that we’re commanded to pray for him,” she said. “That is our prayer for Braulio, that he will come to repentance.” For Chief Deputy Commonwealth Attorney Nicole Wittmann and Rueda, the trial was a victory. Wittmann took the time to commend Michelle’s friends and family, some of whom were in the courtroom every day. “I’ve never in my life seen the kind of support Michelle Castillo had,” Wittmann said. “It speaks volumes of who Michelle must’ve been.” Final sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 6. Under Virginia law, Circuit Court Judge Stephen Sincavage may reduce but not increase the jury’s recommended sentence. Following that hearing, defense attorneys can file an appeal.

<< FROM 3 Kerry said the world is looking to the west for leadership and compassion toward refugees. He noted that the U.S. will accept 80,000 refugees this year and 100,000 next year, and that each of them will have to undergo stringent screening before they can resettle here. “There is absolutely zero evidence that refugees that make it through our process pose more of a threat than members of any other group,” he said, prompting loud applause. “Let me be clear: There is nothing ideological about coming to the aid to someone in need. … Americans say ‘here we are, what can we do to help?’ That’s who we are.” Jolie, who is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Special Envoy, has dedicated much of her time the past 15 years to the world’s refugee crisis. In her comments, she stressed that those who are accepting of people of different religions, cultures and backgrounds do not do away with their own identity. “When we are at our strongest is when we draw on our diversity as people, to find unity based on our common values and our identity,” she said. “We are not strong despite our diversity, we’re strong because of it.” ADAMS Chairman Rizwan Jaka and Rev. Bob Roberts Jr., pastor of NorthWood Church in Texas, commended those in Northern Virginia, especially the faith community, for accepting refugees with open arms. “We appreciate that,” Jaka said, looking to the congregation. The world looks to the two largest re-

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

A boy waits patiently for the iftar event to begin at the mosque in Sterling.

ligions, Islam and Christianity, to lead the way in that effort, Roberts added. “It’s time for the two largest religions of the world start acting what we believe what the Quran and the Bible says we believe,” he said. Roberts said that means opening up homes and hearts to those in need. Syed Hossain, a 21-year-old student at John Hopkins University, attended the event to better understand the refugee crisis, which he said he and his friends often debate. “I wanted to hear what those who are most knowledgeable about the topic have to say,” he said. Asked his opinion on whether the U.S. should welcome those who have fled war-torn countries, he responded, “I always think, if my country was being bombed and I had to flee to another country, how would I want them to treat me? And the answer becomes clear.” An estimated 375 people attended Monday’s event, representing Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist and Bahai faith communities. dnadler@loudounnow.com

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That Day

‘He Deserved Nothing Less’

Refugees

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Members of the jury and spectators in the courtroom were seen wiping away tears as she spoke. Stephanie Meeker also took the stand, telling the jury how she felt about Michelle’s death. “She was the most amazing mom and nothing will ever bring her back,” she said. “Not only was their mom killed, their dad disrespected her by hanging her dead body.” Meeker thanked the jurors for their decision. “The best of Michelle lives on in each of her five children and we get to see a glimpse of her every day,” Meeker said. “I just want to thank the jury for seeing the truth.” “I did believe [Castillo] was innocent until proven guilty,” David Meeker later added. “The proven guilty [period] had passed.” He also told the jury about a moment in 2008, when he told the Castillos that he would become the children’s guardian should anything happen to them. “[Michelle and Braulio] gave us ideas of how to love them,” he said. “And that’s what we’ve done.” Jurors also heard from Castillo’s sister, Lucy Fuentes, and brother-in-law, Sam O’Brien. Fuentes and O’Brien attested to the kind-hearted person Castillo was. “Braulio excelled in everything that he did,” Fuentes said. “He was an incredible brother that I was and still am extremely proud of.”

tradicted one he had previously made to a psychologist. Anaya told the jury Michelle seemed sad and gave away one of her belongings the week of her death, a testimony which aligned with the defense claim that Michelle committed suicide. Castillo took the stand June 12 and denied any involvement in Michelle’s death. He claimed he was at a friend’s house during the night of her death; however, there were no records that confirmed that alibi. The Castillos were going through a divorce at the time of Michelle’s death. Prosecutors said Braulio Castillo had numerous motives, including custody of the children, keeping all of their $6.5 million in assets, and a desire to pursue a relationship with his then-girlfriend. Castillo’s defense attorneys, Peter Greenspun and Jonathan Shapiro, argued that Michelle committed suicide. They said Castillo had no real motive to kill Michelle, and they had both come to terms with the status of their divorce.

June 23 – 30, 2016

Castillo

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Prosecutors in the case against Braulio Castillo, Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Nicole Wittmann and Commonwealth’s Attorney Alex Rueda, speak to the press following the sentencing Tuesday.

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Crews level the ground in preparation for the new tennis courts at Stoneleigh Golf and Country Club in Round Hill while golfers practice at the range.

EMBRACING THE PAST, LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Stoneleigh Golf Club Broadens its Reach BY MARGARET MORTON

ot all golf courses can boast of a long and interesting history, but the Stoneleigh Golf & Country Club just off Rt. 7 in Round Hill can. And its antecedents are an essential component in the club’s efforts to grow memberships in the Round Hill and Bluemont areas. At the same time, the club is expanding its facilities. “We need to grow, that’s why we’re making improvements,” General Manager Rohan B. Somers said, noting a lot of young professionals are moving to the area. With the extension of Metro rail service to Ashburn by 2020, more will follow, he predicted. The property has quite a history. The eastern section is part of an original 1742 land grant from Lord Fairfax, while the western end is distinguished by a 910-foot knob, formerly known as Round Top—for which nearby Round Hill was named. Today’s golf course has several stone buildings, including the main house, Mount Silvia, built for Mason James, whose initials are etched on the chimney, along with the year 1852. The property was sold in 1913 to William E. Dodd, later to become the U.S. ambassador to Germany. It was Dodd who renamed the property Stoneleigh, for its rocky landscape. He operated an apple orchard and a dairy farm.

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The old farm buildings—silo and barn complex—still remain.

In 1987, the property was sold to Bruce Brownell and his partners, including Bob Lewis. Brownell and Lewis developed the golf community in the early 1990s. The 18-hole championship course, opened in 1993, was designed by Lisa Maki in the Scottish golfing tradition. The course was named “the prettiest golf course in Northern Virginia by Golf Magazine. Today, Lewis and his son, Cam, are spearheading a major growth push at the privately managed club that aims

to make the facility more accessible to area families and youth. Improvements include renovations to a bank barn for future events use, the addition of four tennis courts and a short-game practice range, and an expansion of dining and pub facilities. Somers heads a staff of between 40 and 50 people, including Membership Director Clinton Chapman, head golf pro Sean Duggan, and Peter Carter, assistant golf pro. Somers was golf course superintendent for nine years before

taking over as general manager. “There are a lot of younger families moving in, with kids. We need to gain more membership,” Somers said. And to do that, the club had to adapt, he said. “We didn’t fit their needs. They said they didn’t feel welcome. So, we’re trying to make us more family friendly.” Part of that initiative is to expand the dining and pub and event facilities. Under the guidance of Lincoln architect Clint Good, the old farmhouse’s Tavern dining area is being renovated to provide more seating. The dining area has been opened up by removing a center staircase, to provide an intimate pub atmosphere, with high top tables and television, along with an expanded dining room that now features sweeping views through plate glass windows to the golf course. The work should be finished in the early fall. The ongoing renovations to the pre-Civil War bank barn are a highlight of the improvements. The original character of the barn is being revealed, while modern features including heat/ air conditioning and lighting have been blended in as to not detract from the historic nature of the barn. A black walnut bar top was made by Bruce Brownell’s son, Jason, from a fallen tree in Bob Lewis’ garden. Buffets will be served from a 150-year old former work bench. A loft area will allow additional seating. Doors and windows have been added, while keeping the STONELEIGH >> 29

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Compassionate Beginnings LLC is dedicated to the belief that addiction is a disease that can be managed and overcome, and that recovery can be enjoyed by individuals and families today and every day. We recently opened our doors for alcohol and substance abuse counseling in downtown Leesburg. We provide individual recovery-focused counseling using an integrated approach to long-term sobriety with a 12-step foundation. Certified in structured family recovery, we treat family members affected by the disease of addiction. Owned and operated by Kimberley L. Berlin, the center’s other services range from comprehensive substance abuse evaluations for security clearances and Department of Transportation and Substance Abuse Professional Services. A Community Meditation

simple character of the barn. So far, the reviews have been very positive, Somers said. “It will offer a facility for events, cocktails, member mixers, business luncheons, couples golf dinners, and will be an extension of the Tavern,” he said. The residential community covers 860 acres, of which the course takes up 260 acres in total. About 60 percent of the residents are members of the club. A golf membership covers golf, dining, the pool complex, and, soon, the tennis courts and short-game practice area. A social membership covers everything, except golf. A dining membership also

different lie and different shot,” he said. But it’s never boring. Membership has grown steadily over the past five years. The club offers junior golf clinics and golf camps. Golf pro Duggan is keen to get kids playing golf. “Kids drive the agenda; we need to engage youth—parents will follow, if they like either membership.” “Basically, I want to teach juniors ages six to 10,” he said, noting they are the future. Stoneleigh is the home course for the “very competitive” Woodgrove golf team, he noted. “[Stoneleigh] is spectacular. It’s really unique—and a lot of people don’t know about us,” Somers said. That’s a situation the Lewises and the team hope will change very soon.

Addiction Treatment Center Opens in Leesburg

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may be offered. Games for young members, including corn hole sets, and maybe a pool table in the clubhouse basement are on the horizon. “We’re working on a fiveyear plan,” Somers said, that includes a full package for weddings, other events and dining facilities as well as the golf, swimming and tennis. Forging relationships with the wider Round Hill area is important, Chapman said, noting a partnership with the Brentwood Springs developer Wormald Homes. “They’re buying social memberships for each new resident—who can upgrade to a full membership.” While some locals call the course “very difficult,” Somers preferred the word “challenging.” Because of the topography, “the course play is different every time—a

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

The Professional Compounding Centers of America honored the work of Cheri Garvin with the presentation of the 2016 Evelyn Timmons Advocacy Award. Garvin, president and CEO of The C o mp o u n d ing Center in Leesburg, has been a practicing pharmacist for more than 20 years. The award Garvin was created to pay tribute to Evelyn Timmons, a nationally acclaimed pioneer in the use of bioidentical hormones for women and the first female president of the American College of Apothecaries. The honor is bestowed upon a female advocate who is actively and passionately advancing the compounding arena. Garvin was presented with the award at PCCA’s members-only reception during IACP’s Compounders on Capitol Hill event last week and also will be recognized at PCCA’s International Seminar this November in Houston. “I can’t think of anyone who deserves this award more than Cheri,” stated Jay Gill, co-owner/director of business development of The Compounding Center. “She is a passionate, dedicated, tireless and generous advocate of compounding, and I’m thrilled that her experience, commitment and established reputation have been recognized in such a meaningful and prominent way.”

Stoneleigh

June 23 – 30, 2016

Leesburg Pharmacist Wins National Award

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Bolle Elected to State Realtor Leadership Post Beckwith Bolle, principal broker and owner of Carter Braxton Preferred Properties in Leesburg, was elected as the 2017 vice president of the Virginia Associ- Bolle ation of Realtors. She is in line to serve as president of the association in 2019. Beckwith has been a licensed real estate agent since 2004 and a licensed broker since 2010. She has held several top leadership positions at the Dulles Area Association of Realtors and VAR. In 2013, she chaired DAAR and in 2010 was voted Realtor of the Year. She has served on the VAR board of directors since 2013 and is currently the chairwoman of the Realtors Political Action Committee of Virginia trustees.

Lawlor Earns National Accolade for Service

additional 10 years of reserve service.

Jack Lawlor, principal broker and owner of Lawlor Realty Co. in Ashburn, was approved for Realtor Emeritus status by National Association of Realtors. With 1.1 million members, NAR is the nation’s largest trade association. It awards the emeritus status to Realtors who have served the real estate industry, community and the association for 40 cumulative years. Lawlor has been an active leader in the real estate industry and community. During his career, he served as a member of Dulles Area Association of Realtors’ board of directors and on many committees. In the community, he was inducted into the Broad Run High School Hall of Fame earlier this year and is a retired fireman at Ashburn’s Co. 6. After 12 years of active duty as a U.S. Navy flight officer, which included two tours in Vietnam, Lawlor served an

Athletes Open Fitness Center Two Stone Bridge High School graduates have returned to the area to offer a new take on fitness and athletic training. Brothers Daniel Frantzen and Douglas Frantzen opened Next Phase Fitness, in the Goose Creek Village Shopping Center off of Belmont Ridge Road. They’ve taken their experiences from soccer, football and wrestling travel teams, as well as D1 athletics, and combined them with exercise science to create a workout program that accommodates all fitness levels. Their studio specializes in a form of group exercise categorized as high-intensity interval training. In the 60-minute classes, equipment from rowers to barbells to punching bags are used, and the exercises change daily to prevent plateaus. They also use heart rate monitoring technology to track individual effort levels, calories burned, and moderate intensity levels. Next Phase Fitness is a no-contract facility that offers month-tomonth plans and sessions. Those interested are invited to try out the studio for free before they join. The studio is located at 21020 Sycolin Road, Suite 115, in Ashburn. Learn more at nextphasefit.com.

Jack Lawlor awarded Emeritus status.

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Chief Mark Stacks, of the Department of Animal Services for Loudoun County, holds Bentley at the animal shelter during a May adoption event. This week, the Loudoun County Animal Shelter lists two dozen cats available for adoption.

ach spring, thousands of newborn kittens join the millions of older cats already in shelters across the country. The American Humane Association has established June as Adopta-Cat Month to help find homes for the felines. The popular annual campaign is part of a larger effort by organizations to focus on and help solve the challenges facing the cat population, in general. They receive less veterinary care, have less research dedicated to their health/behavioral issues, are more likely to be feral, and are more likely to be euthanized in shelters than their canine counterparts. While the ACA promotes pet adoptions, it also wants to ensure pet owners know what they’re getting into.

Here’s the ACA’s Top 10 checklist:

Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. Just as we each have our own personality, so do cats. In general, cats with long hair and round heads

neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for permanent identification. Plus, shelters and rescue groups are there to offer guidance and assistance as you acclimate your new family member.

open with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new surroundings; this is particularly important if you have other pets. If you’ve adopted a kitten, socialization is very important. But remember – take it slow.

Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. You’ll want to take any medical records you received from the adoption center on your first visit. Due to their immaturity, kittens in particular should accompany you to make the appointment – even before the exam itself – so staff can pet the cat and the animal will have a positive association with the veterinarian’s office.

Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.

Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan. You probably have a plan in place for getting your family to safety in case of an emergency. Adjust this plan to include your pets. Add phone numbers for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital to your “in-case-of-emergency” call list, and be sure to have a several-day supply of your pet’s food and medications on hand.

Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before your new pet comes home. Visiting the shelter or animal control facility should be a family affair. When adopting a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the adoption facility how to make a proper introduction. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat. Understand any pet is a responsibility and there are costs associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided spaying or

Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach you not to leave things lying out. Food left on the kitchen counter will serve to teach your new friend to jump on counters for a possible lunch. Get rid of loose items your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like paper clips (which kittens may swallow). Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new addition secluded in a single room (with a litter box, food and water, toys, and the cat carrier left out and

If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period. Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a household appliance or a piece of jewelry – this is a real living, breathing, and emotional being. To learn more or to help American Humane Association’s rescue services, go to americanhumane.org.

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If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction. Two cats can provide this for each other.

and bodies are more easygoing than lean cats with narrow heads and short hair, who are typically more active. Adoption counselors can offer advice to help you match the individual cat’s personality with your own.

Adopt-A-Cat Month Checklist

June 23 – 30, 2016 June 23 – 30, 2016 PET PAGES | LOUDOUN NOW

[ PET PAGES ]

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Finding the Perfect Name for Your Pet Choosing a name for your new puppy or kitten can be as stressful as naming a newborn child in some households. And like the names of children, the popularity of specific pet names ebbs and flows over the years. Leave it to the American Kennel Club to keep track of the trends. Thankfully, you will not find any Liams or Emmas or Noahs on the list of popular pet names this year, but look for a lot of them in the first grade classes of 2021.

June23 23––30, 30,2016 2016 June PET PAGES | LOUDOUN NOW

Here’s what names are trending: MALE DOGS Sawyer—A fitting name for a mischievous or adventurous dog. Jack—A solid, popular name.

Hudson—Here’s a name gaining popularity with human babies, but seems suitable for a hound. Finn—Perfect for one of the Irish breeds. Emerson—A fitting name for a dog of noble stature. Bear—Good choice for the large canine; comical choice for the toy breeds.

FEMALE DOGS Elsa—It grows on you. Bella—It was the most popular female puppy name last year. Stella—Try shouting the name like Marlon Brando in “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Quinn—A bit masculine, but some female dogs act like tomboys.

Puppy—Colombo-esque, but it’s the name Zac Efron gave his Australian Shepherd.

Sophie—Reserved for the cutest puppies.

Max—Another trendy name for human babies. Any dog would be comfortable with it.

Charlie—A fitting name for your little angel.

Kai—It’s hip and means “ocean” in Hawaiian. Cooper—Another solid name. Mini Cooper might be a good choice for toy breed.

Ivy—Yes, somewhat like Beyoncé’s kid, Blue Ivy.

Aurora—The Roman goddess of dawn. An appropriate name for a female dog who gets you out of bed before the alarm clock does. Avery—The name has a British ring to it.

Lila—A fitting name for a fluffy pet.

Trendy is not for everyone. Here are the most popular dogs’ names registered with the AKC during 2015: Male Dogs: Tucker Bear Duke Toby Rocky

Female dogs: Bailey Chloe Sophie Maggie Sadie

Among the industries that generate fierce customer loyalty, pet care certainly ranks near the top of that list That’s proven true in Loudoun Now’s readers’ poll where the pet-related categories are seeing stiff competition. Below is a list of the nominees getting votes so far. Voting in the Loudoun’s Favorites poll continues through June 30, so there is still time to share your recommendations. Winners will be announced in July. Cast your ballot at LoudounNow. com/Favorites.

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Animal Au Paws Everything and the Dog Furever K9 Happy Hounds Lodge Pitter Pat Wagon Tails Walking Wet Noses Woofies

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Dog Gone Natural Happy Hound Pet Smart Pet Valu Whole Pet Central

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Blue Ridge Veterinary Caring Hands Catoctin Leesburg Veterinary Hospital Ashburn Veterinary Feline Veterinary Clinic Hoof & Paw Veterinary Service Loudoun Veterinary Service Market Street Animal Clinic Old Mill Veterinary Hospital Stream Valley Veterinary Towne Animal

Marshall, VA $250/per person

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Belly Rubs Featherle Lauren PetSmart Old Mill Kennel and Groomers Omnistar Pups N Cuts Splash n’ Tails The Doggie Wash Woofies

Favorite Pet Kennel Blue Ribbon Acres Blue Ridge Veterinary Kennels At Stoneleigh Old Mill Old Towne Pet Resort Seneca Hill Animal Hospital VIP Boarding

Favorite Pet Groomer • • • • •

Charlie Schneider Judy Swain Lauren, PetSmart Naomi Hughes Patty, PetSmart

Cocktails with the Critters Fabulous Silent Auction African Safari Champagne Raffle Karen Fuog Catering Training Barn Tours Dancing Music by Fresh Air

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PET PAGES | LOUDOUN NOW

• • • • • • •

33 June 23 – 30, 2016 June 23 – 30, 2016

Readers Share Their Pet Service Recommendations

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THRILLING THEATER Photos by Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Cast and crew gather for a dress rehearsal of “Love, He Called It” this week. The play is a psychological thriller written and directed by two of Loudoun County’s own, Christian Jost and Sean Phillips.

Young Playwrights Bring an Edge to Franklin Park BY JAN MERCKER

FYI

hings will get a little dark at Franklin Park Arts Center this weekend. The venue, known mostly for family-oriented productions, hosts an original psychological thriller by two young Loudoun playwrights. “Love, He Called It” is a twist on the stalker genre intended for an audience of older teens and adults. “This play is edgier than what I’ve ever seen Franklin Park do,” said the play’s co-writer/co-director Christian Jost. Jost, 19, wrote the play with collaborator Sean Phillips, 20, and both young men are also in the cast. Set at a fictional college campus, “Love, He Called It” tells the story of the relationship between college students Ethan and Sabrina, as Ethan’s interest in Sabrina turns into an obsession. The play starts out with comedic bent, Jost said, but gets darker as the narrative moves on, exploring the mindsets of both stalker and victim. The dialogue delves into Ethan’s past, exploring the path that led to his obsessive traits and also explores Sabrina’s perspective, and the dismissal of her concerns by authority figures. “One thing that we try to explore in the show is how adults, particularly Sabrina’s teachers, in the show dismiss young adult problems as not being important,” Jost said. The two characters are rarely on stage together during the performance, but the audience gets a glimpse of the

“Love, He Called It” 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 24 and Saturday, June 25, 2 p.m. Sunday, June 26 Franklin Park Arts Center, Purcellville Tickets: $10 at the door Details: franklinparkartscenter.org The play has some adult themes and language and is recommended for older teens and adults.

The small cast of “Love, He Called It” takes a break from rehearsing. They say they want the play to present an authentic picture of typical college kids.

Sean Phillips, co-writer and co-director of “Love, He Called It.”

Christian Jost, co-writer and co-director of “Love, He Called It.”

parallel psychological transformations each undergoes. Jost, who enjoys the role of writer

and director but whose real passion has always been performing, stars as Ethan, with Pace University junior

Carsen Howard in the role of Sabrina and Phillips, in a supporting role. The cast of seven also includes Northern Virginia Community College students Brian Tepe, Dan Hepler and Joe Von Duhm and Loudoun Valley High School senior Megan Green. The show is something of a departure for Franklin Park, which is best known for G-rated musical theater, music and dance. “We really wanted to make it clear that this is not for kids,” said Franklin Park Manager Elizabeth Bracey. But while Bracey sees providing entertainment for families as a big part of the center’s role, there is room for more experimental fare. “Part of our mission is to support emerging artists,” she said. THRILLING THEATER >> 39

LOCO CULTURE LIBRARY FOUNDATION’S USED BOOK SALE Friday, June 24, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, June 25, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, June 26, 1-4 p.m.; Smarts Mill Middle School, 850 N. King St., Leesburg. Contact: 703-779-2252

MILKWEED SALE Saturday, June 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Morven Park Winmill Carriage Museum, 17171 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Contact: ksenser@ loudounwildlife.org Stock up on milkweed for monarchs thanks to the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. They’ll have common and swamp milkweed plants for sale for $4 each. Pre-orders are appreciated.

FAMILY PUBLIC SAFETY PICNIC Saturday, June 25, 1-3 p.m.; Sterling Park Christian Church, 800 E. Staunton Ave., Sterling. Details: sterlingparkcc.com Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office,

Leesburg’s own Don Chapman is Saturday evening’s headliner at the Acoustic on the Green concert. The free concert series, now in its 12th year, is a local favorite, and the weekly tunes typically draw big crowds to Leesburg’s Town Hall Green. Chapman will take the stage this weekend for the third concert in the 2016 series. With more than 25 years of professional musical experience as a solo artist and in bands including touring, recording, composing and performing regionally, Chapman is a musical fixture and local mainstay in the Washington, DC, metro region. Acoustic on the Green will run each Saturday through Aug. 27, with concerts held from 7-9 p.m., and feature a few familiar faces, including Mary Ann Redmond, Michael Sheppard, Todd Wright and Jon Carroll.

Don Chapman

remains free to the public.” Picnics are encouraged. Smoking, alcohol and pets are prohibited. See the full schedule at acousticonthegreen.com.

Sterling Volunteer Fire Company and Sterling Volunteer Rescue present an afternoon of interactive safety demonstrations, food and fun. Event is free.

dance organized by the Taylorstown Community Association. Marty Fair and Friends will play bluegrass tunes, with calling by Janine Smith. Event is free and open to the public.

TAYLORSTOWN BARN DANCE AND PICNIC

POKER RUN FUNDRAISER

Sunday, June 26, 4-8 p.m.; Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville. Details: taylorstowncommunity.org The western Loudoun community celebrates friendship and community with a potluck dinner and barn

“The performers always bring their A-game and in some instances special guests join them on stage,” the concert series’ founder Stilson Greene said. “And as always, due to our sponsors, partners and the Town of Leesburg’s commitment, Acoustic on the Green

Saturday, June 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Lovettsville Volunteer Fire and Rescue, 12837 Berlin Turnpike, Lovettsville. Details: lovelions.org Drivers and motorcyclists will take on a 100-mile circuit through the scenic countryside of western Loudoun and Maryland, collecting playing cards

along the way. Prizes are awarded for the three best poker hands. The day ends with a party at Mad Horse Brewpub starting at 4 p.m. Entry fee is $25. The event is sponsored by the Lovettsville Lions Club and benefits the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes.

NIGHTLIFE LIVE MUSIC: SCOTT KURT AND MEMPHIS 59 Friday, June 24, 7:30 p.m.; Smoke-

MORE TO DO >> 36

Loudoun Library Foundation’s annual book sale draws collectors from far and wide as well as locals looking to stock up on great reads, CDs, DVDs and video games. Admission is free. Only cash and checks accepted. Students up to the eighth grade who visit the sale Friday or Saturday get a free book.

Next Up for Acoustic on the Green: Don Chapman

June 23 – 30, 2016

[ THINGS TO DO ]

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Leesburg’s Don Chapman brings his solo acoustic act full of classic rock, pop and originals to the Acoustic On the Green stage. With more than 25 years of professional musical experience as a solo artist and in bands including touring, recording, composing and performing regionally, Chapman is a musical fixture and local mainstay in the Washington, DC, metro region. Picnics are encouraged. Smoking, alcohol and pets are prohibited.

LIVE MUSIC: THE VIPS BATTLE OF THE DECADES Courtesy of Jawga Boz

LIVE MUSIC: JAWGA BOYZ Saturday, June 25, 9 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com These Athens, GA-based “redneck rappers” are known for their dirty south beats and country twang style. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of show.

ACOUSTIC ON THE GREEN: DON CHAPMAN Saturday, June 25, 7-9 p.m.; Leesburg Town Green, 25 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: acousticonthegreen.com

Saturday, June 25, 8:30 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com The DC-based VIPs are known around the region for their battle of the decades parties featuring hits from the ’70s and ’80s. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

ACOUSTIC WEDNESDAY: PHIL KOMINSKI Wednesday, June 29, 6-8 p.m.; One Loudoun Plaza, 20626 East Hampton Plaza, Ashburn. Details: oneloudoun.com The founder of the popular DC-based band The Lloyd Dobler Effect, Kominski plays a solo acoustic show pulling from a range of genres. No cover.

37 LoCo, 19382 Diamond Lake Drive, Lansdowne. Details: brewloco.com

‘LOVE, HE CALLED IT’

Author Michael Tonsmeire (aka the Mad Fermentationist) discusses sour beers and how to make them. Admission is free.

Friday, June 24 and Saturday, June 25, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 26, 2 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org This original play is a take on the stalker thriller genre and tells the story of a college student whose love turns into an obsession. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Sunday, June 26, 6:30 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org Former Youthfest Battle of the Bands winner Eli Pafumi blends old school blues, classic rock, and folk with his own unique voice. $8 ticket price includes coffee.

SHAKE RATTLE & ROLL 1950S CABARET

Courtesy of Dixie Power Trip

BLUEMONT CONCERT SERIES: DIXIE POWER TRIO Sunday, June 26, 7 p.m.; Loudoun County Courthouse, 18 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: bluemont.org This trio is actually a quartet—and is known for fusing rock and Dixieland for a jamming good time. Requested donation is $5. Lawn chairs, blankets and picnics are encouraged. No smoking, alcohol or pets.

LIBATIONS

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: ‘DESPICABLE ME’ Courtesy of Shane Gamble

AMERICANA BRUNCH WITH SHANE GAMBLE Sunday, June 26, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com

Sunday, June 26, 6:30 p.m.; Leesburg Brewing Company, 2C Loudoun Street SW, Leesburg. Details: stagecoachtc.com

OLD OX BREWERY ANNIVERSARY PARTY Saturday, June 25, noon- 6 p.m.; Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Ashburn. Details: oldoxbrewery.com

StageCoach Theatre Company presents a review of the music that created the soundtrack of America. Tickets are $60 and include dinner and the show. Wine, beer, cider and soda will be available for sale. Advance registration is required.

Walking the tightrope between pop, country, Americana, and indie rock, Shane Gamble’s music is a journey on the road less traveled. Free with brunch.

Old Ox celebrates its anniversary with 20 rare beers on tap, food trucks and live music. $25 admission fee includes five beer tickets.

WITH THE KIDS

THE MAD FERMENTATIONIST Saturday, June 25, 3-5 p.m.; Brew

CATCH CANNONS FEVER UNDER THE LIGHTS June 22 vs. Woodstock June 27 vs. Charlottesville

‘SLEEPING BEAUTY KIDS’ Thursday, June 30 and Friday, July 1, 7 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. De-

Wednesday, June 29, 8-10 p.m.; Village At Leesburg Village Green. Russell Branch Parkway, Leesburg. Details: villageatleesburg.com Village At Leesburg offers free family-oriented movies every other Wednesday through Aug. 24.

COMING UP GIN BLOSSOMS Wednesday, July 13, 8:30 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St.; Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com The beloved ’90s jangle pop band, known for hits like “Hey Jealousy” and “Follow You Down” return to the Tally Ho for a night of musical nostalgia. Tickets are $39.50 in advance, $50 day of show.

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Fireman's Field - Purcellville Games Start at 7:00pm Gates Open at 5:30pm PURCELLVILLECANNONS.COM

Main Street Theatre’s children’s summer camp presents the musical Sleeping Beauty Kids (a 30-minute version of the classic tale). Admission is free.

GALLERY COFFEEHOUSE: ELI PAFUMI

tails: franklinparkartscenter.org

June 23 – 30, 2016

ON STAGE

[ A LOUDOUN MOMENT ]

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Talent on Display

Oil painter Lauren Bruce Wodicka

The Western Loudoun Artists Studio Tour began in 2006 as a coalition project to link artists and arts organizations in the western portion of the county. The tour marked its 11th year over the weekend, drawing thousands of lovers of the arts to view the work of 68 artists. More than 30 studios, plus Franklin Park Arts Center and the Round Hill Arts Center, were lined with art and open to the public for the two-day tour. Photos by Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now Craig Green, of Hamilton, and his pup help man the booth of his wife, artist Jan Blacka.

VSA Arts of Loudoun artist Tim Peterson

Round Hill artist Robert A. Friedenberg takes a break from his work to talk to Carissa Essex, of Leesburg.

<< FROM 34

While at Tuscarora, the pair co-wrote a play focused on autism awareness in 2014. Their original work, “Silence,” told the story of a high school student with Asperger’s syndrome. Phillips graduated in 2014, and Jost went on to finish his high school career in 2015 under the direction of beloved drama teacher Russ Staggs at Loudoun Valley High School. While Phillips, a student at NVCC, became heavily involved in the college’s theater programs, Jost has pursued his passion for acting, appearing in productions by Main Street Theatre and other community productions. “Love, He Called It” will be the team’s last collaboration for a while. Phillips recently completed his second year at NVCC and will attend George Mason University in the fall. Jost, meanwhile, takes the plunge as an actor, heading to Los Angeles to attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. And Jost expects to leave the Loudoun theater scene with some buzz, as audiences get into his characters’ heads and watch the play end with an unexpected twist. “It’s shocking. When the cast read it they didn’t know what to think,” he said. “I think as people leave the theater, they’ll also be talking about it and it’ll be quite the discussion.”

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While Franklin Park’s website describes the production as “rated R,” (in an effort to underscore that the production is not for young audiences), Jost’s description is a little more nuanced. The play contains adult theater and themes but no nudity or graphic violence. “It has a little violence, crude humor, but nothing really bad,” Jost said. “We wanted to be honest with how college kids talk. All the characters are college kids. We wanted to be sincere about the language they use because we want to be realistic.” For Jost and Phillips, who rented the facility for the production, the play has been a labor of love, and the directors/ producers are simply looking for ticket sales to cover their costs. The collaborators were very much aware that an original play might not have the kind of box office draw as a well-known musical. “We knew it when we started, but we also knew that things like this are important. As much as I love musicals, these original plays will really educate people about theater,” Jost said. “Theater companies do stuff partially to make money so they can do the next show. We weren’t worried about that.” Jost and Phillips began collaborating a few years ago as drama students at Tuscarora High School in Leesburg.

June 23 – 30, 2016

Thrilling theater

loudounnow.com

Bluemont Concert Series Opens with Dixie Power Trio

Academies

The Bluemont Concert Series is returning to downtown Leesburg for its summer season, with performances beginning Sunday night. The concerts will be held on Sunday evenings through July on the lawn of the Loudoun County Courthouse. The schedule of performers is: Dixie Power Trio, June 26; Circa Blue, July 3; DuPont Brass, July 10; Knicely Jazz Combo, July 17; King Teddy, July 24; and Pan Masters, July 31. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on and a picnic to enjoy before the show. There is a requested donation of $5 per person; $4 for Bluemont Friends and seniors; and $2 for kids 12 and younger. Proceeds support Bluemont’s Artist-In-Education program. Pets, alcohol and smoking are prohibited. In the event of bad weather, the concerts will be held indoors at the Leesburg United Methodist Church, located at 107 W. Market St. West Market Street, between King Street and Church Street, will be closed at 5 p.m. prior to each concert and will remain closed until the concert concludes.

<< FROM 3 miniature version of the Apple Campus in Cupertino, CA, or Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn. It’s designed to encourage collaboration among the three academies. There will be no wings or isolated hallways, and instead, most of the academies’ labs, classrooms and workspaces will open up into a large gathering area at the center of the building. That area, called Innovation Commons, will double as a dining area and as a venue for a variety of events, from robotics competitions to award presentations. “In designing this facility, we actually toured various facilities from community colleges and makerspaces to the HHMI facility at Janelia to see how our facility could best fit our emerging vision for The Academies of Loudoun initiative,” Hornberger said. “That’s what we’re achieving here.” Bowman Consulting is the civil engineer firm on the project, and it is being built by Holder Construction Company. Even before the first excavator was in place at the site, leaders in the school system, the county and the business community started to craft curriculum for programs that will be housed there. Much of that effort was to create the brand new Academy of Engineering and Technology, which will begin classes this fall. Until the new acade-

“

THIS IS SPECIAL. THERE’S NOTHING LIKE THIS ANYWHERE IN THE COUNTRY.

”

mies campus opens, that program will operate out of Tuscarora High School in Leesburg. And Loudoun high schoolers have already taken interest in the program two years before it will move into its permanent space. More than 600 students applied for the academy’s 150 seats. Eventually, it will have space for close to 750 students, according to Hornberger. It will provide science, technology, engineering and mathematics pathways for students with an emphasis on engineering, entrepreneurship and information technologies. The Academies of Loudoun campus also will provide much-needed space for the Academy of Science and Monroe Technology Center, two of the county’s most popular programs, to expand. The Academy of Science has operated out of Dominion High School since it started in 2005. Monroe Technology Center, which opened in 1977, offers a variety of vocational programs, from auto collision repair to practical nursing. Talk of opening a large learning cen-

ter of this kind started not long after Monroe Technology Center opened in Leesburg, according to Science Supervisor Odette D. Scovel. “As soon as Monroe was built, we knew there’d be a problem with capacity,” she said. “There’s just so many more students who want that type of programming than we have space for.” But, that need took the backseat to a more urgent matter—building and opening elementary, middle and high schools quick enough to keep up with record-breaking enrollment growth. The previous School Board and Board of Supervisors that served from 2012 to 2015, made it a priority to fit the $115.12 million Academies of Loudoun project into its Capital Improvement Program. And voters overwhelmingly approved the bond funding in 2014. “This project is a long time coming, and it took a lot of work from a lot of people to get to this point,” Hornberger said at the groundbreaking ceremony. “But the real work is just beginning.” He encouraged business leaders to consider how they want to get involved, from sponsoring lab space, providing internships, judging competitions or just sitting down with educators to talk about what skills the future workforce needs. “Through community-based projects and collaboration we can better prepare our students for the 21st century workplace,” Hornberger said. “We’re at a place to do something exceptional here.” dnadler@loudounnow.com

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Beyond Justice Tears flowed freely in room 2A at the Loudoun County courthouse this week as two tragic cases reached their legal conclusions. At one point on Monday, murder defendants Anthony R. Roberts and Braulio M. Castillo were in the same courtroom, sitting only feet apart. Hours later, both learned they would spend the remainder of their lives behind bars. While they’ll share a common future, they arrived there by far different paths. Roberts was a 20-year-old running with a group of gang members on an out-of-control crime spree when he decided to pull over and attack two innocent victims walking along a suburban subdivision street. Castillo was a 43-year-old multimillionaire businessman once taken to task in a Congressional hearing for allegations he was gaming a federal procurement system aimed to help wounded vets. He was in the final stages of divorce and under a protective order to stay away from his wife. Both were represented by teams of capable attorneys. Roberts was defended by court-appointed lawyers who specialize in capital murder cases. They said early in their appearances on Roberts’ behalf that their chief goal was to prevent the state from taking his life. They would allow no hurdle to be overrun in their demand for due process as the commonwealth pursued the ultimate punishment. Making the case for a death penalty sentence would take at least another year and consultant and research costs that could exceed seven figures. Castillo was represented by a regional dream team—defense lawyers recognized to be among the best in the business. During a month of testimony and cross examinations, their goal was to instill a reasonable doubt in the mind of at least one juror. Roberts’ case ends with his plea agreement; Castillo’s team has appeal options remaining. For now, justice was served. But as Commonwealth’s Attorney Jim Plowman pointed out in court, it can be a hollow justice. No court verdict will bring back Bill Bennet or heal the wounds carried by Cynthia Bennet. Nor will it bring back the mother of Nicholas, Zachary, Benjamin, Jonathan, and Tori. It does provide the opportunity for the families—and the community—to find closure and to turn their attention to the steps that can be taken to protect others. What can we do to curb gang-related violence and protect a family like the Bennets; and what can we do to curb domestic violence and prevent the death of another Michelle? The perpetrators are behind bars, but there is more work to be done.

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[ LETTERS ] Reject the Disaster Editor: Anyone who attended the gathering of hundreds at the Lovettsville Game Club a few weeks ago to hear Parsons/ AT&T present their Short Hill project had to be impressed with the breadth and depth of its opposition. It was a remarkable expression of reverence for the Short Hill, backed by the pragmatic understanding of the economic and environmental values that the proposed project would destroy. No one in attendance went away persuaded by the applicants’ weak description of the benefits of a new 160,000 square-foot, 35-foot high building atop the Short Hill, especially after learning that residents and businesses in need of high-speed Internet services—especially in Hillsboro and Neersville— could not tap into the fiber-optic cables laid along Rt. 7 and Rt. 9 even before AT&T sought approval for its facility. But democracy must ultimately depend on the actions of our elected and appointed officials, and in this case we were grievously let down by county staff as well as by the Planning Commission, most of whose members concluded that the project simply expanded the existing use and would benefit local citizens, therefore requiring only Commission Permit approval—which it gave by a 6-2 vote. The staff ’s decision that only a Commission Permit was needed—and the Planning Commission’s approval of it—grossly ignored the obvious violations this project posed to the county’s Comprehensive Plan. As for benefits to Loudoun, our Communications Commission has found that there will be none. We like to think that Parsons/AT&T’s sensible decision to withdraw the project—after the Planning Commission’s approval but before the Board of Su-

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

pervisors could vote on it—reflected our strong local democracy at work. It was clearly aided by the amazing power of social media in sharing information as it emerged from the dogged and sophisticated research conducted by many of the 500-plus participants in the Short Hill Rescue Facebook page. Combined with the extensive citizen testimony before the Board of Supervisors along with small gatherings—and even citizen-taken aerial photography—citizens built an extraordinarily clear-cut legal case against the applicant, leading AT&T to withdraw its Commission Permit application. But many citizens continue to fear that this is a tactical decision in a battle not yet over and none should rest easy until our Board of Supervisors rejects this application on its merits, not simply because of its withdrawal by Parsons/AT&T. Only then can we be assured that the applicant will not simply come back again with the same, or slightly modified, assault on the Short Hill. We have every reason to trust that our Board of Supervisors will listen and respond with reason, not fear, and with steely conviction that this proposal is a disaster to be rejected in a permanent and definitive way, without possibility of resurrection. – Malcolm and Pamela Baldwin, Lovettsville MORE LETTERS >> 45

[ LETTERS ] Wrong Course

– Matthew Gallelli, Purcellville

Overwhelming Support

Love Your Neighbor, Feed Your Neighbor 2016 Co-Chairs

Anticipation Editor: It is with great anticipation that I look forward to Monday, June 27. On that day, new Purcellville Town Council members will be sworn into office, at Town Hall. It is my vision and priority that residents feel welcome at their Town Hall and take part in shaping Purcellville’s future because it is their future, their quality of life, their property values, their sense of community. I am grateful to the residents of Purcellville for engaging with me during the campaign season, taking valuable time from their day to share their ideas, concerns and vision for our town. Thank you for coming to vote on election day and helping to get citizens out to vote. Their support for me indicates their resolve to have transparency and openness in town governance and to maintain Purcellville’s small town character. I will work to encourage their participation and to have open and lively debate on all issues that affect us as citizens of Purcellville and western Loudoun County. As I finish my service as a Planning Commissioner, I’ve been asking citizens to get involved in any way they can to plan the town and help form its future. I will remain engaged in our Comprehensive Plan review process that is currently underway, as a citizen and Town Council member, and I urge residents to take part. I understand that we have much to do to demonstrate to citizens the value of their participation. I will work hard to encourage and facilitate participation. I will advocate and vote for improved access to town records including meeting schedules, minutes and topics; work bids; developer applications; financial decision records; and improved ease for our town’s entrepreneurial spirit to thrive with storefronts and other means of accessibility. I am deeply honored to have residents’ trust and vote. I look forward to seeing them on June 27 and beyond.

and Darwin G. Bowman got out and grabbed them. By all accounts, what followed was a savage, senseless beating on two people targeted at random. Bowman pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in 2013 and was sentenced to 43 years in prison. The van driver, Jaime Ayala, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years in prison with 30 years suspended. Both agreed to testify against Roberts as the ringleader in a string of robberies that included the attack on the Bennets and the robbery of a Leesburg gun store, for which Roberts already is serving prison time. It took multiple surgeries and years of therapy for Cynthia Bennett to recover to where she is today. In court Monday, she testified for the third time in the cases, walking to the witness stand with the aid of a cane. “Everything we planned for is gone. We’ve had to start over,” she said. “We’ve had to find the courage to get on with our lives.” Her daughter, Samantha Bennet, also testified during the victim impact portion of the sentencing hearing. The attack “shattered our lives,” she said. Sometimes she dreams her dad is still alive. Sometimes she sees her parents walking down Riverside Parkway. “I see the monsters destroy our lives.” “I am filled with so much anger against these people,” she said. “I don’t know that I’ll ever overcome it. I’m helpless and hopeless. … Yesterday was Father’s Day and I’m sitting here in front of the man who took everything.” In his comments, Roberts first apologized to members of his own family. “I never claimed to be perfect,” he said. He also offered an apology to the Bennets and said he would take responsi-

nstyer@loudounnow.com

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– Nedim Ogelman, Purcellville Town Council Member-Elect

<< FROM 1

bility for his actions. “I’m man enough to sit in prison and man up for these crimes, but I can’t bring back their husband and father.” He said he knows what it is like to have a father taken from him. His father is in prison. “I learned to be a man on my own,” he said. Horne was the judge for the trial or sentencing of the other suspects in the Bennet case and reviewed thousands of pages of evidence over the years. Although he retired in 2014, he planned to see the case trial through to the end. Roberts was set for a 74-day jury trial starting in September 2017. “Mr. Roberts is going to add his mug shot to the array of monsters and people who do monstrous acts, who we read about every day in the newspaper,” Horne said. “You literally beat a man to death,” Horne said. “This wasn’t just misjudgment. This was uncontrolled anger to put other people’s lives in jeopardy.” Commonwealth’s Attorney Jim Plowman said he hoped the sentence would help the Bennet family find closure. He said talks about a plea agreement began in April. The trial was still more than a year away and even if Roberts was convicted, appeals in death penalty cases can drag on for a decade. Plowman said it was important to the Bennet family that Roberts never be given the opportunity to get out of prison and to harm someone else. Plowman said there is only so much the court system can do. It can’t bring someone back from the dead or undo a wrong; it can assure accountability and provide a deterrent. “Courts are helpless [in cases like this]. They cannot make things right for the family,” Plowman said.

Editor: Last month, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, the Leesburg Town Council, and the Purcellville Town Council all declared May as “Hunger Awareness Month,” helping to shed light on the fact that although Loudoun has repeatedly earned the distinction of “wealthiest county,” approximately 4.7 percent of our population is food insecure. Now in its fifth year, the “Love Your Neighbor Feed Your Neighbor” campaign brought together various religious and secular groups around Loudoun County with the single goal of helping those suffering from food insecurity. Through the efforts of more than 30 faith communities and our local governments, we raised

Rebecca Makowski, Galilee Church – Sterling

Roberts

Editor: As a Blue Ridge District resident living in western Loudoun, I have a strong and abiding interest in the development of the Loudoun Transition Zone. The massive changes proposed are harmful both to residents of the Transition Zone and all of western Loudoun. I strongly oppose these changes and I ask the Board of Supervisors to oppose ZOAM 2015-0006 except for approval of the tenant house for these reasons: 1) The proposed changes in ZOAM 2015-0006 are not properly defined nor provided with sufficient specificity. Send them back to the Planning Commission and ask for public comment. 2) Adding all these proposed changes would be a violation of the guidelines in the Comprehensive Plan. 3) Inappropriate development of open space for other purposes will greatly increase traffic density. 4) Open space that is lost or used for other purposes is lost forever. 5) Development of open space in the Transition Zone violates the vision of why many western Loudouners moved to this area. 6) Loudoun County is known for its beautiful open space and agricultural environment. People do not visit Loudoun to see housing developments and shopping centers. We must continue protecting the rural portions of Loudoun County which last year contributed over $3 billion tourism dollars. However, I support the provision allowing the building of a tenant house of farm open space in the Transition Policy Area. That is in keeping with the Comprehensive Plan guidelines. Again, I strongly urge that the board vote against ZOAM 2015-0006 and send it back to the Planning Commission for public comment. Do not rush to set our county on the wrong course for development. These decisions should be made by voters, not just the Board of Supervisors.

51,000 pounds of food for six regional food pantries in the county. We want to express our deep appreciation, not only to our faith community partners, the local governments, and the food pantries for their overwhelming support of the initiative— but also to the residents of Loudoun County who continue to help their friends and neighbors and truly care for “the least of these.” Erika Huddleston, Community Church - Ashburn

June 23 – 30, 2016

<< FROM 44

[ VIEWPOINT ]

isitors enjoying Claude Moore Park not only stroll on hiking trails and watch for native wildlife at ponds, they participate in the history of what is now Loudoun County. They’ll discover a portion of historic Vestal’s Gap Road running through the Park’s woods and past historic buildings. Dating to well before the first European explorers, the road was originally a thoroughfare for American Indians. Its uses continued for centuries. Imagine you’re a traveler from the early 1800s heading from Alexandria to Winchester. After many long miles on bumpy Vestal’s Gap Road, you come upon a white farmhouse also known as Lanesville Ordinary. An ordinary was an inn offering a hot meal, a bed, and a barn to care for your horse or ox. You’d meet the Lane family: Keturah and her husband John Keene, and after his death her second husband Benjamin Bridges. Their descendants lived in the house until 1941, when it was sold to Dr. Claude Moore. While at the ordinary you might hear about George Washington’s adventures on the road, at age 17 in 1749, exploring the “wilderness” and surveying lands

Leesburg along Vestal’s Gap Road. The opening of Leesburg Pike in 1825 greatly reduced traffic on Vestal’s Gap Road in Lanesville. Still, the area became a Civil War crossroads for the Union and the C o n f e d e r a c y. Most notably, General John Reynolds of the Union Army stayed in the farmhouse from June 18-24, 1863, while his signal corps camped and relayed messages by flags to troops north and west from the farm’s Bridges’ Hill (the highest point in eastern Loudoun County). Post-Civil War was a time for major renovations and additions to the home. A one-room schoolhouse, built by Benjamin Bridges II, began educating students in 1870. Today, we open the doors of these restored buildings, the Lanesville Ordinary and the Bridges’ Schoolhouse, to the public at many events. These include monthly open houses displaying everyday activities in an early American home; our semi-annual “Ordinary Times: Life in Colonial Lanesville,” when costumed re-enactors of all ages demonstrate period cooking, woodworking, spinning wool, etc., and visitors try writing with

quill pens, rolling hoops on the lawn or making simple toys. Field trips to the 1870s schoolhouse encourage children to dress like students of the era and participate in a sampling of 19th century lessons and life skills. By joining in the fun, interactive historic experiences at Lanesville and Vestal’s Gap Road, visitors can discover Loudoun County’s unique place in U.S. history. The advisory board, known as the Friends of Claude Moore Park, works alongside staff members to increase public understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of the park. They have volunteered countless hours at park events, raised funds to restore and maintain the historic buildings, and assisted in special projects. If you would like to join and support Claude Moore Park, you may email friendsofclaudemoorepark@ gmail.com. Claude Moore Park is named for Dr. Claude Moore who lived on the site until his death in 1991. Loudoun County purchased the park in 1990, and operates the historic and natural sites of Claude Moore Park, located at 21544 Old Vestal’s Gap Road, in Sterling. For information, contact 571-258-3700, claudemoore@loudoun.gov or go to loudoun.gov/claudemoorepark. 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, go to loudouncoalition.org.

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for Lord Fairfax. Then beginning in 1753 as an officer in the Virginia Regiment, he carried messages along the road to the French at Fort Duquesne and led militia men in the first battle of the French and Indian War. You might hear how in 1755 Washington, Daniel Boone, and approximately 1,200 soldiers under the command of British General Braddock marched to battle against the French along the road to Vestal’s Gap. After supper and stories you’d head upstairs for a restful night. In the morning, you could mail a letter; the Lane family also ran eastern Loudoun’s first post office from their home. Finally, you’d be ready to resume your travels west, feeling like you’d become part of America’s history. Many significant events happened in the Lanesville area in the years that followed. During the War of 1812, the British invaded and burned much of Washington, DC. To save our most important documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, Stephen Pleasonton of the State Department sent them, hidden in a wagon, to

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47 June 23 – 30, 2016

Loudoun state park << FROM 5

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

While Loudouners are excited to hear the news of a state park, it will still be several years before the park is open to the public.

rgreene@loudounnow.com

The state park includes 600 acres donated by the Robert and Dee Leggett Foundation. When all said and done, it’s planned to be a 1,500-acre park.

County,” said Del. J. Randall Minchew (R-10th), who led efforts to secure funding for the park project. “I’m proud of all of the work our local elected officials have put into bringing this project to fruition,” Sen. Richard H Black (R-13th) said. “It will be a lasting benefit to the community that will provide a place for people to enjoy the beauty of Loudoun County.” “I’m excited about this new park being established and thankful for the efforts of Sen. Dick Black, Del. Randy Minchew, Supervisor Geary Higgins and State, County and ODLC staff to make this state park a reality,” Del. Dave LaRock (R-33) said. “This park will be a great addition to Western Loudoun’s already-vibrant winery and tourism industries.”

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

to be a 1,500-acre park. It will be several years before the park is open to the public, however. Next, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, which manages the Virginia park system, will work with area residents, park planners and state leaders to develop master plans for the property. “The significance of this new state park is immense and I have been privileged to have been a part of this process over the past three years,” Supervisor Geary M. Higgins (R-Catoctin) said in a statement announcing the milestone. “This park will be a jewel to Loudoun County, the Catoctin District, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Nation.” Higgins noted the property’s historical significance, having been the route Mosby’s Rangers traveled to attack the federal camp of Cole’s Cavalry on Jan. 10, 1864. “I commend Bob and Dee Leggett for their donation and foresight to create this park that will be enjoyed not only by residents of Loudoun County but by many future generations,” Higgins said. Members of Loudoun’s General Assembly delegation also praised the effort. “I have hiked through this land a number of times and it is a great piece of property. It could become the Sky Meadows State Park of Loudoun

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June 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30, 2016