Loudoun Now Nov. 12, 2015

LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE CHRISTMAS MIRACLE? The Rt. 7 tree is back

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LoudounNow

Vol. 1, No. 1

loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015

A New Day For News In Loudoun County

FIRST EDITION

Welcome to Loudoun Now.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

The emotional power of what happens to a family when the father goes off to war, leaving behind wife and children, is well displayed in the Revolutionary War memorial statue that was unveiled during a Veterans Day ceremony Wednesday at the county courthouse.

Loudoun’s Revolutionary Spirit Memorialized At Courthouse

BY MARGARET MORTON The solitary Confederate soldier statue in Loudoun’s courthouse square now has some company.

Several hundred people— including excited third-graders from Frances Hazel Reid Elementary—gathered there Wednesday to witness the for-

mal unveiling of the “Spirit of Loudoun” statue, the result of an almost two decades-long effort to pay tribute to the sacrifices of Loudoun families who joined America’s fight for independence 239 years ago.

The highlight of the colorful Veterans Day ceremony came as the red, white and blue cover was pulled away. The crowd

gasped, cheered and clapped as the figure emerged of a farmer, flanked by his wife and son, as he prepared to leave them to go to war on behalf of liberty and nationhood.

The planning for the newest war memorial started 16 years SPIRIT OF LOUDOUN continues on page 8

INDEX

Local Postal Customer

CRIME

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OPINION

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This is a community-based, community-focused journalism project aimed to fill a void created by the sudden closing of one of Loudoun’s two countywide newspapers last week.

This inaugural issue arrives in your hand as a result of an extraordinary undertaking by a relatively small group of people in a very few days. Many hadn’t met before, but they were brought together by one common interest: That is a belief that a community as large and engaged as Loudoun not only can support more than one newspaper, it needs a broader community voice.

Quickly joining the effort was a team of experienced journalists who offered to contribute in ways big and small.

Those whose work is featured in this week’s issue are alumni of both Leesburg Today and the Loudoun Times-Mirror and, combined, bring more than a century of experience to these pages. Artists jumped in to help design the newspaper and website you see this week. These are projects that typically require weeks or months of planning and you can expect to see both evolve.

The community support was extraordinary on the advertising side, as well. The businesses in these pages made their commitments while knowing little about what the paper would be or even where it would be distributed. They, too, value the choices a competitive media market offers.

We look forward to adding your voice to the paper and to sharing your stories.

We look forward to earning your trust as both government watchdogs and a community stewards.

And we look forward to hearing from you.

The Loudoun Times-Mirror this week observed that it was “A new day for news in Loudoun County.”

We agree.

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November 12, 2015

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November 12, 2015 |

Cycle Of Change:

Loudoun Ushers In New Leadership Era

BY DUSTY SMITH, CONTRIBUTOR Over the past decade, significant changes have come to the leadership that directs those who turn the gears in Loudoun County’s government.

The defeat of Board of Supervisors Chairman Scott K. York (R-At Large) by Democrat Phyllis Randall on Election Day marks the near completion of a cycle of leadership in the county.

“You have lots of new actors and lots of new perspectives,” said Gem Bingol, the Piedmont Environmental Council’s land use officer for Loudoun and Clarke counties.

Bingol and Tony Howard, the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce’s president and CEO, both said the changes in Loudoun over the years have been significant. But they also pointed out that the new crop of leaders has inherited a stable base. For example, Howard referenced the county’s high incomes, cultural amenities, great schools and thriving business community.

“All the results of previous leadership.

It’s a human endeavor, so it hasn’t been perfect,” he said, but overall what past leaders have left for the next generation “ain’t bad.”

Bingol agreed.

“There is a lot that has happened that is good,” Bingol said, agreeing that overall past leaders have made the county an attractive place to live and work. “But it’s easy to slip out of balance.”

While the change has been significant, Christine Windle, the public policy and communications director for the Dulles Area Association of Realtors, said it’s not

particularly unusual.

“A changing of the guard is normal,” she said. “We’ve got to move forward in a positive direction. Everyone will rise to the occasion.”

But the transition into such a role can be difficult. For many, such as new supervisors, there will be mountains of paperwork to sort through, rules and regulations to learn, multiple boards to become familiar with, and many relationships to build.

“It’s a steep learning curve,” said Bingol, who has watched several new board of supervisors take on the new challenge.

“It’s like drinking from a fire hose and the budget is the first thing that whacks them on the head.”

Incoming leaders have a vast pool of past experience upon which to rely and, most would likely agree, they should take advantage of it. Among the keys to settling into a new leadership role is listening.

“Being able to listen, to truly listen,” Howard offered as advice, as well as being able to identify a range of good advisors who have a wealth of knowledge.

“To reach out to those people you need to hear from. Understand who those people are, get advice and counsel, and listen.”

Bingol offered similar sentiments.

“It’s an important skill to be able to listen to people and extract the core of their message,” she said. “And listening to many different perspectives before you make your final decision.”

Community involvement plays a significant role as well, Windle said.

“It would be wonderful if the community got engaged as we move forward,”

she said, explaining that decisions are best made when leaders understand how residents feel.

Much of county government leadership centers on economic development, Howard said, pointing to decisions that impact jobs, taxes, education and the balance of commercial and residential tax burdens. However, in recent years, federal government terms such as sequestration, budget reconciliation and continuing resolutions have had an impact on Loudoun’s economic development, which in the past has relied heavily on government contracting.

“We are in a changing environment,” Howard said, adding that many businesses are not sure whether they’ll have work from year to year as a result. “The enemy of business is not necessarily a negative economic environment … uncertainty is your greatest enemy because you just don’t know.”

Furthermore, Loudoun faces more national and global competition today than it has in the past and cannot rely on doing the same thing it has done in the past to succeed.

“What’s important is the type of leadership that realizes that,” Howards said.

Bingol asserts that those in power also must recognize the need to protect valuable resources, while driving economic development.

“Leadership is a balancing act,” she said.

Dusty Smith is the owner and editor of Ashburn Rising, a local news website focused on the Ashburn community.

Contact him at dusty@ashburnrising.com.

Leesburg Mayor To Pass Gavel

OUR CHANGING LEADERS

In with the new ...

County Supervisor-elect Phyllis Randall, left, and former Chairman Scott York

During the past six years, the county has seen new people take over power in a range of top government positions, influencing virtually every aspect of Loudoun life: school decisions, business decisions, land use decisions, taxes, transportation, and more.

CHAIRMAN OF THE LOUDOUN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS – in 2016, Randall replaces York, who served on the board since 1995.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR – in 2009, Tim Himstreet replaced Kirby Bowers, who retired after serving as a top county government manager for more than 30 years, including 17 in the top spot.

COUNTY ATTORNEY – in 2014, Leo Rogers replaced John R. “Jack” Roberts who retired after 30 years of service.

SUPERINTENDENT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS – in 2014, Eric Williams replaced Edgar B. Hatrick, who retired after more than 47 years with the school system, including 23 as superintendent.

PLANNING DIRECTOR – in 2015, Ricky Barker replaced Julie Pastor, who served in the position for 22 years before her retirement.

BY KARA CLARK RODRIGUEZ Change is coming to the center seat of the Leesburg Town Council chambers dais—for the first time in more than a decade.

Leesburg Mayor Kristen C. Umstattd, fresh off her victory last week in the Leesburg District supervisors’ race, is preparing for a career change for the first time in 23 years.

Umstattd was first elected to the Town Council in 1992 and won election as mayor 10 years later. Her 13-year tenure at Leesburg’s helm puts her as the third longest-serving mayor in town history, behind only George Head (1870-1885) and Charles F. Harrison, who served two terms as mayor— from 1913 to 1917 and again from 1923 to 1934. She is by far Leesburg’s longest-serving female mayor, with Mary Ann Newman (1976-1978) and B.J. Webb (2000-2002) serving one two-year term each. Umstattd is the 47th mayor in town history.

Councilman Marty Martinez’s first year on the council also coincided with Umstattd’s first year as mayor. As he and other council members look to the near future of having to appoint someone to serve out the remainder of Umstattd’s term, which expires Dec. 31, 2016, he said he admires the job Umstattd has done over the years.

“She has to work with six different personalities and mov-

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SHERIFF – in 2011, Mike Chapman was elected, replacing Stephen O. Simpson, who had held the post since 1999.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Leesburg Mayor Kristen C. Umstattd was first elected to the Town Council in 1992 and won election as mayor 10 years later. She will be sworn in as a county supervisor in January. ing the town forward, which she’s done a wonderful job of,” he said. “It’s a double-edged sword in that I am really excited and happy for her, but on the flip side what are we going to do now?”

LEESBURG LEADERSHIP, continues on page 10

In addition, every seat on both the Board of Supervisors and the School Board will have changed by Jan. 1, 2016.

This year’s changes include Eugene the retirement Delgaudio of School Board member Thomas Reed (At Large), who has served since 2003, and Supervisor Eugene Delgauldio (R-Sterling), whose failed re-election bid ended his board service that began in 1999.

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November 12, 2015

loudounnow.com

A Loudoun Moment

A photo essay by Douglas Graham Loudoun Now

On The Hunt Wednesday’s cool fall morning made for the perfect backdrop for The Loudoun Hunt’s weekly outing, at Hume Farm off of Dry Mill Road near Leesburg. The 121-year-old sporting organization has a distinguished history, with Virginia Gov. Westmoreland Davis serving as its master of foxhounds in the early 1900s to First Lady Jackie Kennedy hunting and showing horses with the group in the 1960s.

November 12, 2015 |

loudounnow.com

Lovettsville Purchases Site For New Town Hall

BY MARGARET MORTON The Lovettsville Town Council this week advanced plans to build a larger Town Hall.

Mayor Bob Zoldos inked the paperwork on a $560,000 deal to purchase four residential lots on the Town Green. The purchase will be financed with a 20-year loan. The lots are assessed by the county at a total value of $477,600.

Town leaders have long recognized they’ve outgrown the current town office.

Two years ago, the council purchased a house next to the present Town Hall to provide more growing room. The town resold the house, but so far the council has not discussed what use will be made of the remaining 1-acre lot.

The council’s purchase of the four 0.19-acre lots would allow the construction of a new government along the

Town Green.

Ryan Homes has resumed construction in the Town Square, prompting the council secured the lots before they could be developed.

“We have looked at sites all over town and there aren’t many that meet our needs and are affordable,” Zoldos said.

A town office at that location would compliment the Walker Pavilion, just to the west, and support events on the Town Green with restrooms and utilities.

The town’s ownership also would prevent adjacent commercial land from being converted to residential lots, ensuring the second phase of Town Center’s commercial center development will have more space for businesses.

The decision whether to build a new town government center on the land would have to be made soon, Zoldos said.

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loudounnow.com

Schools’ Plan Paves Way For More Full-Day Kindergarten

BY DANIELLE NADLER Local school leaders agree that Loudoun County has two big priorities over the next six years: provide seats for the thousands of anticipated new students and expand the availability of fullday kindergarten.

Both of those pricey endeavors were at the top of the school superintendent’s Capital Improvement Program, presented to Loudoun’s School Board on Tuesday.

Superintendent Eric Williams’ priority list of the school district’s building needs for fiscal years 2017-2022 includes a request of $476.79 million to fund 18 projects. The projects to be funded in the first year, fiscal 2017, include $233 million for new schools and $16.32 million in kindergarten classroom additions. Plus, another $2.96 million to purchase classroom trailers to place on the campuses of overcrowded schools in the Dulles area.

To make a full-day kindergarten program a possibility in the southern end of the county, Williams is proposing the addition of three classrooms each at six Dulles area schools. That would allow close to 70 percent of Loudoun kindergartners to receive six-hour school day, the superintendent said.

Full-day kindergarten has been the political football of this election season in Loudoun, with dozens of candidates running for offices that have little say over school programs touting the need for it.

That’s put school leaders under increased pressure to come up with a clear path to provide a full school day to the county’s youngest students. Loudoun is one of three localities in Virginia that do not offer it to every kindergartener.

School Board member Thomas Reed (At Large) brought up the community push for it at the board meeting.

“This doesn’t include universal fullday kindergarten,” he said from the dais.

“Where’s the rest of it?”

Williams stressed that he wants to extend a full day program countywide as much as the board members. But, he added, it’s too early to know what buildings will need classroom additions to make it a reality. Once neighborhoods in central Loudoun mature and enrollment numbers level out, more classroom space might open up in the Ashburn area.

“We want to have confidence that [classrooms] are built in areas where they’re needed,” he said. “We share common aims of wanting to move toward 100 percent full-day kindergarten. Even though we’re not there yet, I welcome continued interest in the topic.”

Williams’ plan also calls for the renovation of the Naval JROTC facility on the Loudoun County High School campus, and a study on how best to use the C.S. Monroe Technology Center and Douglass School buildings. C.S. Monroe’s

Snapshot of Superintendent’s Capital Priorities ■■Dulles South elementary school (ES28) design funding, $4.5 million, fall 2019 opening

■■Dulles South high school (HS-9) design funding, $12.5 million, fall 2020 opening

■■Dulles North elementary school (ES-31) construction funding, $36.4 million, fall 2018 opening

■■Brambleton high school (HS-11), $118.8 million, fall 2019 opening

■■Kindergarten classroom additions, $16.3 million, fall 2018 completion ■■Dulles South middle school (MS-7), $60.8 million, fall 2019 opening

programs will move into the Academies of Loudoun when it opens in 2018 and school leaders have talked about moving Douglass School, the county’s center for alternative education, into the current C.S. Monroe building. A program study will determine whether that is the best use of that space.

■■Naval JROTC facility renewal, $3.1 million, 2018 completion ■■C.S. Monroe Center/Douglass School program studies, $1.75 million

The first two years of Williams’ proposal is $285 million more than last year’s capital program. So School Board member Kevin Kuesters (Broad Run) said nobody should get their hopes up that county supervisors will hand over that much money.

“I would hate to give the public any

■■16 classroom trailers for Dulles south schools, $3 million, 2017 completion

Public hearings are planned for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, and Wednesday, Dec. 2, at the Loudoun school administration building, 21000 Education Court in Ashburn.

hope that they’ll get funded,” he said. “I hope I’m wrong, but I don’t think I am.

It’s not going to happen.”

The School Board will now vet the superintendent’s proposal before adopting it Dec. 8. It will then be sent over to the county Board of Supervisors as a funding request.

Crescent Parke Plans Survive Leesburg Council Vote

BY NORMAN K. STYER A Leesburg Town Council vote to effectively kill plans for a new residential community along the Leesburg Bypass failed Tuesday night, giving new life to the Crescent Parke project.

One vote made the difference.

Councilman Marty Martinez and Vice Mayor Kelly Burk made the motion to deny developer Leonard S. “Hobie” Mitchel’s request for Town Plan changes to allow residential construction on a portion the 53-acre property planned for commercial development.

Only Mayor Kristen Umstattd joined them.

Four others agreed to let the project advance, even if it was taking a backward step to have another round of review by the Planning Commission.

That panel recommended denial of the project because it ran afoul of the Town Plan policies and because of a list of more than 50 outstanding staff concerns.

Overall, the Crescent Parke application seeks approval for 198 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 for retail, an area for a future hotel, and a 2,000-squarefoot community room.

The land stretches from the terminus of Gateway Drive to Davis Drive along the edge of the Leesburg Bypass.

The land assemblage also includes the Olde Izaak Walton Park, land currently leased by the town but which the developers would donate.

The council members who support the possibility of the residential de-

MREC LD Leesburg Crossing

A rendering of Crescent Parke’s proposed residential section along Davis Drive in southeast Leesburg. velopment said they were swayed by the wishes of residents along Gateway Drive and in the Virginia Knolls neighborhood. They said they didn’t want commercial development next door and opposed the town’s plans to require the developers to build a fourlane extension of Davis Drive between South King Street and Gateway Drive.

The council voted unanimously to delete the latter requirement.

The future of Mitchel’s project remains uncertain.

Councilmembers, and neighbors, have concerns about the high density requested, tree preservation and buffering, among other issues.

In leading the charge to keep negotiations going, Councilmen David Butler said the policies requiring commercial development at the site were unreasonable given market conditions and did not protect existing neighborhoods. Butler was joined by Council members Suzanne Fox, Katie Sheldon

Hammler and Tom Dunn in changing that policy.

Umstattd warned that the council’s actions could derail years of planning work.

“Do you want to scrap the Crescent District plan and go to residential?

That is the fundamental question of the evening,” she said.

“We spent 10 years creating the Crescent District plan,” Burk said.

“We worked on it. We created what we wanted on it. And the first application that comes down, we’re going to change it.”

Mitchel said he was confident he could address the council’s and public’s concerns while working with the Planning Commission during the next two months. The applications are expected to return to the Town Council for review in January.

Contact Norman K. Styer at nstyer@ loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015 |

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SPIRIT OF LOUDOUN continued from page 1

ago with the vision of the late Larry Moison and was completed by sculptor Jay Hall Carpenter.

In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read to the public very near the spot where the statue was erected. The county’s population then was 18,000. The farmer depicted by Carpenter was one of 2,000 Loudoun men to enlist in the militia, more than any other Virginia county.

Clerk of the Loudoun Circuit Court Gary Clemens led the program. Moison recruited him in 2012 to help with fundraising, which previously had proved a daunting task. But Clemens and his committee ultimately surpassed the $420,000 target needed to complete the project.

Speakers included the Rev. Elijah B. White III, retired Loudoun Circuit Court Judge Thomas D. Horne, former state Del. Joe T. May, Carpenter and Jim Christian, president of The Patriot Project.

In giving the invocation, White noted he had ancestors who fought both in the Revolutionary War and in the War of 1812. He prayed that those present “remember the men of Loudoun who honored the cause of freedom and their families who supported them,” and asked God to “strengthen and protect American forces in battle and peace.”

Clemens introduced Horne as a key supporter of the project. While Horne said he could not claim personal ancestors who fought in 1776, his great-great-grandfather was Lafayette’s interpreter during the French hero’s return visit to Loudoun in the 1820s.

A noted guardian of the courthouse and its grounds, Horne called attention to a stone from the county’s first courthouse, built in 1757, that was uncovered during excavation of the former Leesburg Hotel. He also pointed out that the bell that rang as the Declaration of Independence was read in Leesburg in 1776 is still in the courthouse.

Expressing his gratitude to members of the Ketoctin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution and to Moison, Horne said, raising his hand, “Larry, this is your day, if you’re looking down on us.” Moison’s daughter Beth, her husband and brother, were present.

Horne was an early supporter of Moison’s vision.

“He said, ‘could we ever get a statue of the Revolutionary War at the courthouse?’ I said, ‘sure.’”

Horne recalled going to Moison’s home to view the clay maquettes of various designs. “Without question, this was the unanimous selection.”

“It tells us of a time in the nation’s history when men were willing to leave their home and family to pursue nationhood and ideas of liberty,” he said.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Hundreds convened on the Loudoun County Courthouse fairgrounds Wednesday to celebrate the unveiling of the Revolutionary War memorial statue and, fittingly, Veterans Day.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Children at Wednesday’s statue unveiling ceremony were drawn to the dozens of soldiers dawning colorful Revolutionary-era uniforms.

“It brings the concept of family, the heartache for a family, willing to sacrifice for a cause.”

Introducing May as “a true community leader,” Clemens said the project could not have succeeded without him.

In a wry comment, May said he was grateful for the forbearance of Loudouners. He said his Loudoun ancestor was a Hessian mercenary who fought for the British crown, was captured and spent three years in Winchester, before settling in the Lovettsville area.

“This statue is different—it’s not just those who fought, it’s about the people left at home,” May said. He contrasted the experiences of two Loudouners he had researched—both well-known names at different ends of the social spectrum.

The first was Sgt. John Champe, of Aldie. “He was a tough dude,” May said, brave and resourceful. He was supposed to infiltrate British lines to capture the renegade Benedict Arnold, but that didn’t happen. Champe left his wife and six kids behind—she died, and Champe himself died at age 48.

The second figure was Champe’s social superior, Col. Leven Powell, the founder of Middleburg.

“He left a comfortable life, and his wife and four kids,” May said. He joined then-Gen. Washington during that terrible winter at Valley Forge when 3,000 out of 4,000 died. Powell himself fell ill, struck with the “flux, jaundice and St. Anthony’s Fire.”

Carpenter described his inspiration for what became a 7-foot-tall statue

atop a 3-foot granite base—weighing five tons together. Carpenter said he envisioned Virginia patriots answering the call to leave security, property and wives behind. He imagined the farm family depicted in the statue walking into Leesburg, which was a staging ground for enlistment, “experiencing their last few yards they would walk together.”

The farmer shows resolve, pride in Virginia and determination, Carpenter said; his son is beside him, carrying his father’s equipment, as he shows a mix of pride in his father and excitement. But his wife shows her worry. “She leans into him, but bravely supports him, as she holds his gift to her—a sprig of dogwood.”

Christian, who took over the committee after Moison’s death, said it was hard to believe it was 16 years since the Patriot Committee’s work began.

Like Carpenter, he imagined what it would have been like in Leesburg during those heady times just before the outbreak of war. Imagine standing on the steps of the courthouse and hearing on July 4, 1776, the unforgettable words of Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence, Christian said.

The crowd listened intently as Jefferson’s account of Britain’s tyranny was read aloud.

As the cover was removed, unveiling “The Spirit of Loudoun” statue, the crowd softly began to sing “God Bless America.”

Contact Margaret Morton at mmorton@loudounnow.com.

loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015 |

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November 12, 2015

loudounnow.com

Leesburg Council Drops Office Requirement For Potomac Station Development

BY KARA CLARK RODRIGUEZ

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In a move to fill in the largest remaining vacant lot in Leesburg’s Potomac Station development, the Town Council Tuesday night approved a rezoning that will give developers more flexibility in developing their site.

By a 6-1 vote, with Councilwoman Katie Sheldon Hammler dissenting, the council approved the rezoning of the 15acre lot off the intersection of Fort Evans Road and Battlefield Parkway known as Potomac Station Marketplace. The change allows developers to drop more than 100,000 square feet in office space from the plan.

As currently laid out, the mixed-use development envisions 380,000 square feet of residential uses with a mix of multifamily units and townhouses.

Jay Sotos, of developer Clark Realty Capital, pointed out that the proposed residential lots contain 55 active adult units and only 13 non-restricted units that would house an estimated 56 school-age students that would impact area schools. Additionally, the development will contain 197,000 square feet of commercial uses, including the proffered uses of a service station and a child care center.

Sotos told the council that letters of intent for those two uses have been signed

by Sheetz and Primrose Schools.

The move to rezone the property, which has already been the subject of previous Town Council and Planning Commission public hearings for other approvals, was spurred by the applicant’s desire to drop the previously approved 110,000 square feet of office uses. Dropping the office use would render the application in noncompliance with its current zoning, which town planner Michael

LEESBURG LEADERSHIP continued from page 3

The council has 45 days from the date Umstattd resigns to appoint a new mayor. Umstattd indicated this week that she plans to submit her resignation letter at the end of December. Her term as Leesburg District supervisor begins Jan. 1.

Vice Mayor Kelly Burk will serve as acting mayor until the appointment is made.

If the council members fail to act within the 45-day window, an appointment would be made by the Loudoun County Circuit Court.

According to a memo written by Town Attorney Barbara Notar, the mayoral seat could be filled one of three ways: by council appointment, Circuit Court appointment or by special election, depending on who is tapped to fill Umstattd’s seat.

Should a current sitting member of the council be appointed mayor they would inherit Umstattd’s term—meaning those council members whose terms end in 2018 (Burk, Marty Martinez and Suzanne

Watkins said requires a maximum ratio of two-and-a-half to one ratio between retail and office uses on the site. Change to the Planned Residential Neighborhood district eliminates that ratio.

Sotos emphasized that the applicant’s new proposal was a better use for the property.

“The current zoning doesn’t fit,” he said. “Let’s utilize that existing investment better.”

Sotos pointed to vacant office space in the nearby Uniwest development along Fort Evans Road as to why the applicant sought to drop the office use. He noted that the development has struggled for more than four years to fill its office space.

Sotos also noted that the active adult units are expected to create more tax revenue for the town than the office space would.

“We think it fits better within the context of this community,” he said.

While supporting the change, several council members pointed out there was no evidence of a firm commitment from Sheetz to build on the site, but said having a gas station there was important.

“I’m going to threaten you that if there is not a gas station in there by the end, you’re going to hear from me in very unpleasant tones,” Vice Mayor Kelly Burk said. “That’s what people want there.”

Hammler opposed the rezoning, saying she believed there were opportunities to better integrate office uses there.

In addition to the commercial and residential uses, the development will also contain a splash park area, a running trail along the border of the development and a shaded tree area.

Contact Kara Clark Rodriguez at krodriguez@loudounnow.com.

Fox) would see their current council terms shortened by two years. The terms of council members David Butler, Katie Sheldon Hammler and Tom Dunn expire on Dec. 31, 2016. However, should they choose to run for the mayor’s seat, they would be gunning for two-year terms instead of four years.

Complicating matters, if a current member of the council is appointed mayor, there will be a need to fill the resulting vacant council seat. If a council member whose term expires in 2016 is appointed mayor, no special election would be needed because of the term expiration’s proximity to the general election. However, if a council member whose term is up in 2018 is appointed mayor, a special election will be required.

For his part, Martinez said he’d like to see Burk take the mayor’s seat. But most of all, he wants to make sure the appointment doesn’t become a “political football” to set the stage for the 2016 council races.

Contact Kara Clark Rodriguez at krodriguez@loudounnow.com.

November 12, 2015 |

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November 12, 2015

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Loudoun Pays Tribute To Military Veterans The Veterans’ Day program at The Marshall House Wednesday honored dozens of veterans who were present at the ceremony and George C. Marshall, who was hailed by Winston Churchill as World War II’s “organizer of victory.”

U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), left, greets Leesburg businessman and World War II veteran Stanley Caulkins at a Veterans Day ceremony Wednesday on the grounds of The Marshall House.

Army MAJ. Brett Sweeney and his son Blake, age 6, have a tender moment during the ceremony on the grounds of The Marshall House.

Edgar B. Hatrick, who served as Loudoun public schools’ superintendent for 23 years, attended the Veterans Day ceremony at the George C. Marshall International Center.

Photos by Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

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November 12, 2015 |

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November 12, 2015

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WesternLoudoun Round Hill The Town of Round Hill and the Round Hill Arts Center are planning to co-sponsor a public art competition with the purpose of installing a series of murals in the Town Park.

The town and the arts center are looking for proposals from area artists for the design and completion of 4’ by 8’ murals—the exact number to be determined later. The theme of the competition is to be “Life in Western Loudoun.”

Arts Center Board President Jenny Hunter, noting the cooperative effort, said the town has always been very supports of both the arts center and the arts in general.

Design submittals and registration is required by Jan. 1. Each artist or a group may submit up to three design proposals. Each must include a work plan and budget (under $300). The proposals will be evaluated first by the arts center’s Mural Committee then receive final approval by the Round Hill Town Council.

The murals will be selected on the basis of how well they reflect life in Western Loudoun, their aesthetic excellence and the their construction feasibility. The winning artists will receive an honorarium of $200 for their completed murals.

The submitted designs will be on exhibit at the arts center from Jan. 7 through Feb. 28, with an artists’ reception and people’s choice event held from 4-6 p.m. Feb. 20. The final jury selection will be held by March 15 and the winning artists will be notified in writing.

The murals will be unveiled on May 28 during the Round Hill Hometown Festival. For details, go to roundhillartscenter.org.

Middleburg The town will trot out its finest for a spectacular Christmas show during the holidays. What visitors will see Saturday

Dec. 5 will be a medley of traditional Christmas festivities, along with the trademark parade by the Middleburg Hunt along Washington Street and the Christmas parade in the afternoon.

Festivities on Dec. 5 kick off at 8:30 a.m. with Breakfast with Santa and a silent auction at the Middleburg Charter Center. The colorful Middleburg Hunt review brings approximately 100 horses in their pink coats and dozens of hounds swirling at their feet to the town’s main thoroughfare. Day-long activities include hayrides, choir performances, the Christmas in Middleburg Craft Show at the Middleburg Community Center on Washington Street and the Middleburg Garden Club’s Christmas Flower & Greens Show at Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

And for patrons, young and old, there’s shopping and dining opportunities galore at the town’s many boutiques and restaurants. Food trucks will be added this year near the picnic area at the community center.

The Christmas Parade begins at 2 p.m. as crowds nine-deep line the street to gawp at the eclectic assortment of floats, troops, animals—including horses, llamas, alpacas and dogs—musical groups and antique fire trucks, finishing up with Santa riding in the Christman horse-drawn coach.

From 3 to 6 p.m., adults can relax and enjoy the Spirit of Middleburg—a progressive food and wine hospitality that allows adults to relax at Middleburg eateries, while sampling foods, wines and spirits from throughout the area. Go to ChristmasinMiddleburg.org for full details.

Event organizer Jim Herbert promises a specially exciting event this year, noting more food and drink, more amenities, and more unusual activities throughout the day.

Don’t worry, Loudoun.

We’ve got you covered.

Send your news tips, events or opinions.

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CONTRACTING IN THE HUNT COUNTRY SINCE 1972

editor@loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015 |

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15

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Cars zoom past the new Leesburg Rt. 7 Christmas tree heading east. The tree now sits on the east bound off-ramp of Rt. 7 and Market Street.

Construction crews unceremoniously removed the old tree that had been decorated for the past 40 years in the median as part of the highway widening project now underway.

Rt. 7’s Christmas Cheer Given New Roots

BY MARGARET MORTON Like its predecessor, most motorists haven’t noticed it yet. And they won’t until early December when a group of volunteers adorn it with lights, tensel and ornaments.

The Rt. 7 Christmas tree is back.

For the past 40 years, Rt. 7 drivers have seen a decorated Norway spruce in the median just west of Leesburg during each Christmas season. When the tree was removed last spring as crews widened the highway and many residents wondered whether that tradition also would be lost from Loudoun’s ever-changing landscape.

It will not.

As Shirley Contracting Company works to wrap up the project in coming weeks, it recently planted a new tree—a 14-foot Norway spruce—at the westbound off-ramp to West Market Street.

Among those frequent Rt. 7 drivers who bemoaned the loss of the holiday tree was Catoctin District Supervisor Geary Higgins (R). He persuaded the Virginia Department of Transportation to replace the tree.

He worked with Farid Bigdeli, VDOT’s Transportation and Land Use director for Loudoun County, to make that happen.

Higgins was not alone in the effort. When Shirley Contracting had to cut down the old tree, they offered to donate a replacement, VDOT representatives said. Rick Meyer, a Shirley Contracting worker from the Purcellville area, contacted Jay Frye, president of

Blake Landscaping, and the two got together to see what could be done.

The end result was a tree donated by Shirley Contracting and planted by Blake Landscaping—a tree that didn’t cost the state or the federal government a dime.

“We’re very happy we could get it done,” Meyer said.

Just who decorated the tree each year was largely a mystery. One day the Norway spruce would be bare— then—overnight, it sparkled with lights, ribbons and countless decorations. Rumors long abounded as to who was responsible, but it was not until the tree was removed that the volunteers came forward publicly.

Bill Bosley said he had decorated the tree for 40 years, along with his brother Jim initially, and later with Joe Marker and Mike Breedon.

In the beginning, Bosley saw the little tree—then only 4 feet tall—in need of a friend and started the great Christmas caper as a gift to the community.

After Jim died, Bosley, Marker and Breedon continued the work—to such an extent that there was an outcry when the tree ultimately was cut down last spring. The contractors gave sections of the tree to the men as keepsakes.

Will Bosley and his elves return the task?

“We’re not going to tell you,” Bosley said, chuckling, last year.

Contact Margaret Morton at mmorton@ loudounnow.com.

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November 12, 2015

Crime Trial Set For Sterling Murder Case A 10-day jury trial has been scheduled for the teen charged with first-degree murder in the Centeno Miranda, the Park View High School student Henry Ernesto fatally shot Sept. Dominguez Vasquez 5.

A Loudoun grand jury on Monday handed up indictments against 17-year-old Jose Miguel Espinosa De Dios. In addition to first-de- Juan Moises Aguirre gree murder, Zelaya the Mexican national is charged with gang participation; shooting, stabbing or wounding in the commission of felony; and use of a firearm in the commission of felony. He faces life in prison. The juvenile will be tried as an adult.

Also charged in the case are Juan Moises Aguirre Zelaya, 19, and Henry Ernesto Dominguez Vasquez, 20. The stepbrothers are charged in their roles as accessories after the fact. During a District Court preliminary hearing in the case, investigators said Espinosa came to their residence after the shooting.

Investigators say the shooting was tied to a gang rivalry.

Espinosa’s trial is scheduled to begin July 11.

Maryland Man Pleads Guilty To Arson Charge

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Send your news tips, events or opinions.

We want to hear from you. editor@loudounnow.com

The man charged with attempting to set fire to the office of his probation officer in 2012 this week pleaded guilty to federal charges in the case.

Jonathan Ernesto Godoy, 25, of Frederick, MD, faces a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 15 years, and up to 20 years.

The incident happened Nov. 14, 2012. Fire crews were dispatched to the Loudoun County Community Corrections office on Loudoun Street in Leesburg just after 6 a.m. for a report of a structure fire. The fire, largely limited to first floor office space, caused $200,000 in damage.

In testimony in Loudoun court last fall, Probation Officer Diane Harrington said Godoy was on probation for a possession of methadone conviction but was not complying with the conditions of his release over a series of months. On

loudounnow.com

the day before the fire, Godoy reported for a required meeting and failed a drug test for a second time in four months— getting yet another warning that he would likely be headed back to court and then back to jail.

The next morning, Harrington arrived at her office about 6:10 a.m. to find smoke throughout the building. After the fire was extinguished, investigators found a broken Perrier water bottle, evidence of an accelerant and a piece of cloth—the makings of a Molotov cocktail—on the floor of Harrington’s office.

There was a hole in a window through which the bottle had been thrown. Outside, investigators found evidence of a second bottle that bounced off the office.

Godoy was charged following a 21-month investigation by the county Fire Marshal’s Office with the support of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI.

Sheriff Issues Warning On Rim Rip-Offs The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is investigating a series of wheel and rim thefts from SUVs and pick-up trucks.

On Tuesday, two thefts were reported in the Ashburn area. A vehicle parked in the area of Demott Drive and Welby Terrace had the wheels and rims removed. Wheels and rims also were taken from second vehicle parked on Iredell Terrace.

Similar thefts have been reported since July on Pleasant Valley Road in Chantilly, as well as thefts in the Ashburn area on Middleburg Street, Tara Court, Pioneer Ridge Terrace, Fairhunt Drive, Crossbow Court, Avonworth Square, Ridgeway Drive and Golden Autumn Place.

The vehicles targeted include SUVs and pick-up trucks and have been parked in driveways, the street and a commercial business parking lot. The targeted vehicles typically have customized rims with standard oversized tires. Detectives have been working with neighboring jurisdictions to determine if similar cases in the region are related.

The sheriff ’s office advises residents to take the following precautions to help deter tire and wheel thefts: • park vehicles in a garage or well-lit area and turn wheels at an angle; • install wheel locks; • and install a car alarm that includes sensors for the wheels.

Residents are encouraged to report all suspicious activity immediately by calling 703-777-1021.

Anyone with any information regarding these cases is asked to contact Detective M. Hall at 571-258-3043.

November 12, 2015 |

loudounnow.com

Sheriff’s Report THURSDAY, NOV. 5

FRIDAY, NOV. 6

HIT AND RUN

FELONY HIT AND RUN

200 block West Beech Road, Sterling

Rt. 7 at Belmont Ridge Road, Ashburn

A man working in the area was struck by a passing vehicle. The driver left the scene. The victim was treated at an area hospital for injuries described as non-life-threatening. The vehicle was described as a silver Chevrolet four-door.

The driver was described as a white man in his 60s with grey hair and glasses.

The driver of a 2013 Toyota Corolla stopped at the intersection was rear-ended. Another vehicle also was struck. The suspect driver, Jeffrey S. Stowe Jr., ran away but was apprehended at his home. He was released on bail pending a Nov. 12 arraignment in Loudoun County District Court.

ASSAULT Claiborne Parkway at W&OD Trail, Ashburn A juvenile was walking on the W&OD Trail about 4:30 p.m. when a cyclist approaching from behind announced he was passing her on her left. The juvenile said she moved to her right but the cyclist slowed almost to a stop and pushed her to the ground. She sustained minor injuries. The cyclist then rode away. The juvenile was unable to describe the cyclist.

SATURDAY, NOV. 7 ASSAULT/LARCENY 20800 block Hardwood Forest Drive, Great Falls The victim was pulling into a gas station when he came across a male and a female who were standing in the entrance. Words were exchanged between the driver and the two subjects.

The confrontation continued inside the store. The female struck the victim and a cell phone was reportedly taken from

the victim’s vehicle by the suspects.

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY 300 block of Sanderson Drive, Sterling

17

Graffiti was discovered on the rear of a residence.

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY 300 block Argus Place, Sterling

Someone spray-painted graffiti on the side of a home overnight.

Graffiti was discovered on a utility box, sidewalk and side of a home.

LARCENY

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY

21600 block of Red Rum Drive, Ashburn

46300 Stratton Terrace, Sterling

Someone took a cell phone from a gym locker at 10 a.m.

Someone placed a construction barrel on top of a vehicle, causing minor damage.

DUI/GRAND LARCENY

AUTO THEFT

Rt. 50 near Loudoun County Parkway, Chantilly

1400 block E. Maple Ave., Sterling

A deputy stopped to check a disabled vehicle. The driver became unresponsive and was transported to a hospital.

The vehicle was found to be stolen in Prince William County. William N. Schlorb, 24, of Maryland, faces charges of DUI, grand larceny and driving on a suspended license.

SUNDAY, NOV. 8 DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY 400 block Argus Place, Sterling

A 1997 Toyota Tacoma left running unattended was stolen.

LARCENY 47100 block Community Plaza, Sterling Someone took items from an unlocked vehicle about noon.

LARCENY 44300 block Junction Plaza, Ashburn An 18- to 25-year-old white man carrying a green backpack took a tip jar from a restaurant.

18 |

BUSINESS

November 12, 2015

loudounnow.com

Boulder Crest Wins Big At Chamber Awards

BY KARA CLARK RODRIGUEZ

Other award winners:

For the first time in the history of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s esteemed Small Business Awards, a nonprofit took home the top prize.

Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness was the winner of the Small Business of the Year Award at the Nov. 6. ceremony at the National Conference Center.

Boulder Crest Retreat is the nation’s first privately-funded rural wellness center dedicated to supporting combat veterans and their families. Since its opening in 2013, more than 1,000 have benefited from the center’s therapeutic and recreational programs.

Earlier in the evening Boulder Crest also was the winner in the Nonprofit category, making it eligible for the top prize.

All category winners from the evening, in addition to other award category winners from the previous three years who apply for consideration, are eligible for consideration as Small Business of the Year.

Executive Director Ken Falke was also a finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year category.

Chamber President Tony Howard noted that since the Nonprofit of the Year category was added in 2009, none of the winning

■ Entrepreneur of the Year: Justin Dobson, Comfenergy ■ Home-Based Business: DeHenzel Training Systems ■ Technology Business: Solebrity Inc. ■ Tourism & Entertainment Business: The Zone ■ Rural Business: Spring House Farm

Scott Harris Catoctin Creek Distillery

Ken Falke Boulder Crest Retreat

Justin Dobson Comfenergy

nonprofits have taken home the Small Business of the Year award until last week.

The business awards have been held since 1995. Howard noted that the judges selecting the category winners as well as both the Entrepreneur of the Year and Small Business of the Year make their decisions based solely on the surveys submitted by the award applicants. There are no deliberations among judges, he said, so committee members are not aware of how each other voted. The judges’ votes are then scored and the results compiled to render award winners.

For Boulder Crest, both awards are the

result of the tireless work of its staff and volunteers.

“First of all, we’re honored to have received the award. To sit there with the other finalists and ultimately come out on top was great,” Falke said. “We also felt honored to know we had the community’s support, and that’s so important. We know the national level of sponsors and donors is so important, but the true success will be the community embracing us for the long it.”

Volunteerism is an important part of the retreat’s success. “Every hour that’s donated is an hour we don’t have to pay some-

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one,” Falke noted, adding that volunteers act as community ambassadors for the organization.

For example, last week’s Loudoun 10K Trail Run, which raises money for the retreat, resulted in a contact with a family foundation now making plans for a $5,000 contribution.

To learn more, go to bouldercrestretreat.org.

Contact Kara Clark Rodriguez at krodriguez@loudounnow.com.

Margaret Morton contributed to this story.

BUSINESS

loudounnow.com

Trail Run Raises $30K For Boulder Crest Retreat

BY PATRICIA MILLER More than 100 runners enjoyed ideal conditions during the Loudoun 10K Trail Run on Nov. 8.

In its fourth year, the event has become a Veterans Day tradition, raising money to support operations at the Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont.

Following trails at Camp Highroad near Philomont, the runners faced a challenging 6.2-mile course up and down hills, through woodlands, along the Beaverdam Creek, through open fields past the horse paddocks and finally back to the start/finish line.

This year’s race was particularly exciting race with Matthew Moore and Nathan Dawes dueling for first place from start to finish. Dawes took the victory on the final hill, finishing 2 seconds ahead.

The event is a collaboration between the Loudoun Roadrunners, Camp Highroad and Boulder Crest Retreat.

The race began in 2011 as an effort by the Loudoun Roadrunners board to expand the club’s presence and to give back to the Loudoun County community.

At that time, Ken Falke was just beginning to develop the retreat for wounded warriors. The club embraced that cause and decided that Veterans Day weekend would be a meaningful date to hold the race and began searching for a location.

After some reconnaissance work by several of the board members, Camp Highroad emerged as the best venue. With all the pieces in place, and after nearly a year of planning, the Loudoun 10K Trail Run became a reality.

The Loudoun Roadrunners have been consistently building on that vision since the first race in 2011. The first year, the club raised $5,000 for Boulder Crest. One year later, proceeds topped. $25,000. This year’s event resulted in a donation of $30,000 to Boulder Crest.

Because of its success in building a sponsorship base, Loudoun Roadrunners also makes a $2,500 donation to Camp Highroad. Operated by the United Methodist Church, the rural events center covers 620 acres. To learn more about Camp Highroad, go to camphighroad.org/.

Top finishers in the year’s Loudoun 10K Trail Run were: ■■Male: Nathan Dawes, 42:08; Matthew More, 42:10; Adam Borbidge, 43:38 ■■Female: Jessica Hall, 55:38; Joanne Hawelka, 57:37; Ann Mortimer, 58:34 ■■Oldest Finisher: Daniel Kugler, 1:24:13 ■■Youngest Finisher: Brianna Cantrall 1:09:14

Learn more about the running club at loudounroadrunners.org.

Patricia Miller is a member of Loudoun Roadrunners.

BizBriefs Have news about your business or employees? Share your story with us at business@loudounnow.com.

Mixer: How To Boost Gov’t Contracting Business The George Washington University’s Virginia Science & Technology Campus will host a Technology Acceleration Zone Mixer next week.

November 12, 2015 |

The free event starts at 2:30 to p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the university’s Virginia campus, at 20101 Academic Way in Ashburn.

It is a chance for those in the government contracting industry to learn how to increase business with transformative technologies. Representatives from AOC Key Solutions, EzGovOpps, Launch Dream and others in the industry will present their best solutions, as well as new strategies and practices to land more contracting opportunities.

GW’s Technology Acceleration Zone is a partnership with Launch Dream LLC to bring public and private sectors together to build better, faster and more cost effective business technology solutions and help grow the regional technology economy. For a full agenda and to register, go to http:// bit.ly/1PnhIsG. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can email hmb616@gwu.edu.

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November 12, 2015

December 4th

Experience the holiday magic of historic Leesburg

December 12th

Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting

Christmas and Holiday Parade

Join friends and neighbors on the Town Green (6pm)

Through historic Downtown Leesburg (6pm)

December 4th

December 12th

Leesburg First Friday Over 25 concerts, wine tasting, and art shows throughout Downtown (6pm-9pm)

December 5th-6th

Holiday Fine Arts & Crafts Show Shop for unique handcrafted gifts from over 90 juried artisans at Ida Lee Park Recreation Center (Saturday 9am-4pm and Sunday 10am-4pm)

Jingle Jam Concerts

Rock n’ roll at the Tally Ho Theatre (11:30am, 2:30pm, and 8:30pm)

December 12th

Sounds of Christmas Downtown

Carriage rides, live music, cookie decorating with St. Nick, and carolers (11am-5pm)

December 19th

December 5th

Hometown Holiday Open Houses Visit downtown shops for treats and photos with St. Nick, carolers, holiday characters, free gift wrapping, and more (11am-5pm)

www.idalee.org www.downtownleesburgva.com

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Victorian Christmas Celebrations

Storytime and photos with St. Nick, Dickens carolers, carriage rides, and holiday characters (11am-5pm)

Free Downtown Parking

Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day (street and parking garage)

It’s our world, let’s explore it!

Loudoun Country Day School has an extensive field trip program designed to awaken the desire in children to try new things and inspire learning as they experience the world for themselves.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 15th

2:00pm Information Session (Tours to follow)

RSVP to susan.hower@lcds.org or register online at www.LCDS.org

Loudoun Country Day School PRESCHOOL - 8TH GRADE

www.LCDS.org

703.777.3841 20600 Red Cedar Dr., Leesburg, VA 20175

Chick-fil-A of Purcellville

Name tags were awaiting the new Chick-fil-A team members ahead of the Nov. 5 employee orientation.

The restaurant opened its doors this morning.

Fryers Are On At Purcellville Chick-fil-A Loudoun County’s newest Chick-fil-A officially turned on the lights at 6 a.m. today, Nov. 12, and a line of hungry patrons was expected to form overnight awaiting the opening.

The restaurant, in the Purcellville Gateway shopping center, seats 132 inside, with additional outside patio seating. It also has dual drive-through lanes, similar to the Leesburg location. The restaurant is equipped with free WiFi, and has an indoor play area for toddlers.

Chick-fil-A is open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

As of press time, positions were still available for the Purcellville location.

Listed positions include kitchen team member, restaurant marketing director, training director and, believe it or not, cow mascot.

Learn more at cfarestaurant.com/Purcellville.

Chamber Host Legislative Reception Tuesday Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s Non-Profit Initiative hosts its fifth annual Legislative Reception from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17.

The chamber invites members of the nonprofit scene to enjoy an elegant evening of networking with local and state elected representatives.

The event will be held at River Creek Club, 43800 Olympic Blvd. in Leesburg.

Cost is $40 for chamber members, $55 for non-members. Register at loudounchamber.org.

National Eyes On Purcellville Rye Purcellville-based Catoctin Creek Distilling Company received national attention recently when its Roundstone Rye was named one of the best whiskeys made outside of Kentucky.

The USA Today 10 Best list identified the 10 best whiskeys, bourbons and ryes made outside of the Bluegrass State.

That list included Roundstone Rye, a small-batch, single barrel whisky made from scratch at the company’s Purcellville headquarters.

“Once again, Roundstone Rye is being recognized for its excellence alongside some of the best craft spirits in America today,” Catoctin Creek Founder Scott Harris said of the honor.

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November 12, 2015 |

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November 12, 2015

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Education

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Guilford Elementary School students take turns reading to Cali, a therapy dog with Sterling-based nonprofit organization Heeling House.

Therapy Dogs Provide More Than Warm Fuzzies

BY DANIELLE NADLER It seemed like a typical classroom lesson.

Suzanne Elbeze asked her third-grade students to take turns reading aloud.

“Go ahead,” the teacher nudged her students along.

As they took turns reading a book about a man determined to tightrope between the World Trade Center towers, the students took a moment to pet their favorite member of the class.

A golden retriever named Cali.

The dog, who followed the students’ lead and sat quietly during story time, has been a weekly visitor to the Guilford Elementary School class for the past two months. In that time, she’s become more than a class pet. She’s helped the students make big educational gains.

Cali is one of eight therapy dogs from Sterling-based Heeling House. The specially trained pups work in five Loudoun County elementary schools, The Children’s Therapy Center in Sterling and Blue Ridge Speech and Hearing in Lansdowne.

Heeling House, which started just more than a year ago, specializes in what the organization’s founder Kathy Benner calls animal-assisted therapy. There are less structured programs that are intended to provide a feel-good moment with a pup, Benner said. But Heeling House aims to do more than that—to help people achieve specific developmental, physical or educational goals.

“Therapeutic horseback has really paved the way for this idea of meaningful therapy with an animal,” Benner said.

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Cali is one of Heeling House’s eight therapy dogs tasked with working in Loudoun County elementary schools and therapy centers.

“We’re not just playing with dogs.”

Volunteer handlers from the organization sit down with professionals at the site, whether teachers in the classrooms or therapists and physicians at the therapy centers, and plan how to use the therapy dog to reach those goals.

Elbeze said she’d read a lot about the effect therapy dogs have on students with developmental disabilities.

“It got me thinking, what would happen if we did this in a general education classroom,” she said.

She expected any cute, furry creature to be a bit of a distraction at first. Instead, she said Cali’s presence has actually improved her students’ behavior.

“It’s been amazing,” she said.

She treats the dog more like a student WARM FUZZIES continues on page 23

loudounnow.com

EDUCATION

Indoor Track Gets Backing To Play As Loudoun Varsity Sport

BY DANIELLE NADLER The Loudoun County School Board voted Tuesday to give indoor track the needed nod to compete in the Virginia High School League, although the endorsement doesn’t come with much cash.

The vote identifies indoor track as a “tier 2” activity, which means the program receives required school division backing to take part in competitions sanctioned by VHSL, which governs interscholastic activities in Virginia’s public high schools. But the “tier 2” designation leaves it up to a parent organization to fund the program.

Student athletes will pay a $150 activity fee, just as they do to participate in any other school division sport, and those funds will be given back to the parent organization overseeing the league to cover costs. The division would cover fees for students who cannot afford it, which is estimated to cost about $2,000 per school.

The board suspended meeting rules to vote on the proposal Tuesday, instead of at its Dec. 1 meeting.

School Board member Jennifer K. Bergel (Catoctin) urged the board to make a decision fast so that students have a chance to compete in this winter season of indoor track.

The season begins with meets early next month and ends with a state competition in late February.

Just one school, Loudoun Valley High School, submitted an application for the board to consider backing indoor track as a varsity sport. Bergel noted that it’s no coincidence that the Purcellville high

WARM FUZZIES

continued from page 22

than a guest. She encourages classmates to be a good role model for the golden retriever by following directions and listening quietly during class. The best-behaved students get to walk Cali to and from lunch and recess.

“It gives them a sense of responsibility,” Benner said.

She’s seen the dog’s presence improve students’ behavior and build their confidence. One little boy who was afraid of dogs progressed from avoiding Cali to petting her while he reads. Another student, who would rather wander the room during story time than sit on the carpet with his classmates, is now one of the first to take a seat so he can be near Cali.

“He wants to be a part of the class now,” Elbeze said. “That’s a success for him.”

One student who once refused to do in-class assignments now does them willingly, even when Cali isn’t in class.

school is home to one of the country’s top-rated runners, senior Andrew Hunter.

Having an outlet to train and compete on during the cross-country and track off seasons will help runners in Loudoun compete with athletes in the neighboring jurisdictions that have indoor programs, Bergel said.

“There is a huge opportunity here and I would like to see what they can do,” she added.

Les Cummings, the division’s supervisor of athletics, told the board that coaches and students at seven other high schools have shown an interest in indoor track. The board’s decision allows any public high school in Loudoun to form a varsity indoor track team. But initially, Cummings’ focus will be on finalizing the needed paperwork to set just Loudoun Valley up for this winter season.

“We’re going to try hard to try to get it done, but I can’t guarantee it,” he said.

Indoor track is the third sport the School Board has welcomed as a school division activity in the past six months.

It added girls field hockey to its athletic offerings in May and crew in June, following a policy change that allows the division to back a sport for VHSL play without coming up with the money to pay for it.

School Board member Brenda Sheridan (Sterling) was the one board member present who opposed the proposal.

She said she’d prefer more time to vet the idea, as the board did with field hockey and crew.

November 12, 2015 |

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“That’s huge,” Elbeze said. “I think they feel like Cali is helping them through this.”

Eight-year-old Bryanna Hernandez said there’s something special about sharing a book with Cali. “I love reading with her,” she said.

And she wants other kids to enjoy that same experience. She encourages more teachers to consider making a therapy dog a part of their classroom.

“Other people love dogs, too,” she said.

“It’s not fair for us to be the only ones to have Cali.”

Heeling House’s services are free, and the nonprofit holds several events each year to raise money. A fundraising event, Deck the Halls with Bowwows of Heeling Holiday Party, is planned for Friday, Dec. 12, at Barrel Oak Winery in Delaplane.

The group is always looking for more dogs and volunteer handlers to join its efforts. Those interested may learn at heelinghouse.org.

Contact Danielle Nadler at dnadler@loudounnow.com.

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EDUCATION

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Notebook Redrawing Of Attendance Boundaries Underway The Loudoun County School Board is in the process of shifting the attendance boundaries for elementary schools in the Brambleton area.

A third public hearing on the matter is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16, at the school division’s administration building, 21000 Education Court in Ashburn.

Several hundred students are expected to be reassigned schools, in preparation for Madison’s Trust Elementary School’s fall 2016 opening. The changes will relieve some of the county’s most-crowded schools.

Construction is underway on Madison’s Trust Elementary, near the intersection of Northstar Boulevard and Creighton Road in Brambleton. The building is on a fast-tracked construction timeline to have it ready for students next year.

The meeting schedule for the attendance boundary process is as follows: • Monday, Nov. 16, public hearing; • Monday, Nov. 23, board work session; • Monday, Nov. 30, public hearing; • Monday, Dec. 7, public hearing; and • Tuesday, Dec. 8, adopt attendance boundaries.

Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and take place at the school administration building. Follow the process at lcps.org; click on the “school attendance boundaries” link.

NVCC’s Spring Registration Opens Monday Open registration for Northern Virginia Community College’s spring 2016 semester starts Monday, Nov. 16. Students can secure their classes while the most choices are available, but have until 5 p.m. Dec. 15 to pay tuition.

Send your school news to dnadler@loudounnow.com.

Students must register by 11:59 p.m. the day before a session begins. The spring 16-week session and first eightweek session begin Jan. 11, with additional sessions starting later in the semester. Online registration is open 24 hours a day at nvcc.edu and personal assistance is available at the college’s six campuses in Loudoun, Alexandria, Annandale, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge.

The Loudoun campus is at 21200 Campus Drive in Sterling.

The community college also offers hundreds of online courses through its Extended Learning Institute. Learn more on the NVCC website or by calling 703-323-3000.

Tuscarora Hosts College Fair The Historically Black College and University Showcase will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 at Tuscarora High School.

The school is at 801 N. King St. in Leesburg.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is designed to inform Loudoun County students about the opportunities provided by the participating institutions. Spanish-language translators will be at the fair.

The evening will include a student panel, a financial aid presentation, onsite application reviews, interaction with college representatives, student banking information and tips on college test preparation.

The colleges that will be represented include: Bluefield State University, Grambling State, Hampton University, Howard University, Lincoln University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina A & T, Trinity Washington University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union and West Virginia State University.

If it’s local, it’s news. ... and we want to hear about it.

Send your news tips, events or opinions.

We want to hear from you. editor@loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015 |

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LoCoLiving

Get In Line: Jingle Jam Tickets Go On Sale Monday

BY DANIELLE NADLER

Greene and Chapman are taking it slow, this being their second foray into managing a music series and venue.

“We did a similar series at Shoe’s [Cup and Cork in downtown Leesburg] last year but it wasn’t feasible to go back,” Greene said. “The Barns [at Hamilton Station] is a stunning venue both visu-

You’ll want to set your alarm early Monday—very early.

Tickets for Leesburg’s incredibly popular holiday concert go on sale at 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16, and they’re expected to go fast.

Jingle Jam, set for Saturday, Dec. 13, showcases the talents of 10 musicians who collaborate to bring audiences their favorite holiday tunes with a rock ’n’ roll twist.

Three performances are planned— the Junior Jam, aimed at kids, at 11:30 a.m. and regular performances at 2:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.—at Tally Ho Theatre 19 W. Market St. in Leesburg.

Families will also want to stop by Leesburg’s Town Green between noon and 1 p.m. to have their photo taken with the Jingle Jam Santa.

This year’s Jingle Jam band includes Grammy Award-winner Jon Carroll; acclaimed singer-songwriter Todd Wright; Leesburg’s own Gary Smallwood; Grammy Award-nominee Michael Sheppard; sought-after studio guitarist and producer Mark Williams; blues singer Mary Ann Redmond; drummer Dan Garvin; songwriter and guitarist Prescott Engle; and songwriter and Jingle Jam founder Stilson Greene.

Tickets to the annual concert are among the most sought-after in Loudoun. Historically, they’ve sold out for all three performances within hours of sales opening, so those interested are encouraged to queue up early. It’s not uncommon for a line to form in front of the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center starting about 2 a.m. the day of the sales, Greene said Those “brave souls” who line up early Monday can expect a mini acoustic concert from Todd Wright, Greene added. Jingle Jam sponsor Cerphe Colwell, of Music Planet Radio, has also been known to deliver donuts about an hour before ticket sales begin.

There’s a five-ticket-per-person limit, and all purchases must be made in person. Admission to the afternoon and evening concerts is $25 per person, and $5 per person for the Junior Jam. All proceeds from the shows benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

For more information on ticket sales, call 703-777-1368. For show details, go to tallyholeesburg.com.

SONGS AND STORIES continues on page 29

Contact Danielle Nadler at dandler@loudounnow.com.

Courtesy of Todd Wright

Todd Wright, one of Loudoun’s best-known singer-songwriters, teams up with graphic artist and musician Stilson Greene and songwriter and guitarist Don Chapman to launch a new concert series.

New Concert Series Features Tunes and Tales Loudoun’s latest acoustic singer-songwriter project gets tongues wagging by design

BY SAMANTHA BARTRAM From the primordial hearth to stateof-the-art studios, the strange power of storytelling through music heals, sustains and connects us. In celebration of that foundational urge—to share experiences, inspire empathy and illicit pure emotion—comes Songs, Stories and Gas Money, the latest enterprise of local artist, activist and musician Stilson Greene and acclaimed songwriter and guitarist Don Chapman. Poised for its inaugural show Saturday, Nov. 14, the event will provide a platform for accomplished musicians to showcase their best songs and share the tales that served as their inspiration.

A Simple Plan “[We want] to have a venue and an audience that respects the artist as an artist,” Greene said of the series. “This will be a listening-room concert—there will be no talking during the show… So many people love the winery setting with live music and that’s a wonderful thing and an economic shot, not only to the venue, but also to the county and importantly to the musicians. But, some listeners become frustrated due to the natural social

Songs, Stories and Gas Money Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Todd Wright for the series’ inaugural concert: 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 14 The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton nature of the venue. [Songs, Stories and Gas Money] is about the songs and the person behind the songs, showcased in a beautiful, hushed setting.”

It’s difficult to think of a better musician to christen this intimate environment than Todd Wright. The Ashburn-based singer-songwriter and father is known to pepper all his sets with witty banter and endearing stories, as anyone who has caught one of his many Acoustic on the Green gigs or the annual Jingle Jam can attest. Certainly the pensive atmosphere of Songs, Stories and Gas Money will only enhance Wright’s charisma and, one can hope, coax yet more details about his creative process.

“I can’t speak for the other artists but I’m sure I’ll talk about my dogs and my child a lot,” Wright confessed. “Most of the songs I write are with other writers

and artists and usually in some far-off place, so it’s always fun to get to tell people where these things come from.”

The concert series also plays well into Wright’s relatively new talent incubator, HalfKing Publishing, located in the heart of downtown Leesburg. In partnership with Music Planet Radio’s Cerphe Colwell, HalfKing offers support, guidance and infrastructure for burgeoning musicians to hone their craft.

“Part of what we are doing at HalfKing is creating a [Nashville] Music Row-type vibe off the beaten path,” Wright said.

“Our space is set up for writers to come in from all over the world and spend some time in Leesburg taking in the history and getting to know its ghosts and then, hopefully, pouring all that into a song. So, to have a singer-songwriter series that gives touring writers a great place to play on top of all that seems magical to me.”

Tuning Expectations

LOCOLIVING

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November 12, 2015 |

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Bohanon, Van Huyck Honored For Local History Contributions

BY MARGARET MORTON Two longtime community advocates were honored during the presentation of the Loudoun History Awards on Sunday at Leesburg’s Thomas Balch Library.

The 23rd annual event put the spotlight on the contributions of Donna Bohanon and Al Van Huyck.

Bohanon, who heads the Black History Committee of the Friends of Thomas Balch Library, was nominated for the award by longtime historian and activist Elaine Thompson.

“It is with pride that I nominate Donna Bohanon,” Thompson said, saying it had been a privilege to work with her on the committee and to watch her enthusiasm and skill in expanding the reach and diversity of the committee.

She first served as its events chairman and then took leadership of the committee. Her numerous contributions to the committee went “beyond the call of duty,” Thompson said, adding Bohanon firmly believes “the African-American past should be defined and told by us.”

Bohanon’s activities include leadership of Emancipation Day events and creating the award-winning memorial wall at Frederick Douglass Elementary School, conducting book talks, promot-

ing black culture, and speaking at statewide conferences.

Her particular focus now is to raise funds for a memorial on the courthouse grounds to highlight the roles of black residents in Loudoun and to research gravesites at the cemetery near St. James Church and to restore the Belmont Slave Cemetery.

“

We have the opportunity to bring our heritage and environmental work into the public policy arena—all history translates into public policy.

— Al Van Huyck

”

A Washington, DC, native, who works at the U.S. State Department, Bohanon and her family fell in love with Loudoun when they moved to the Ashburn area.

As a history lover, finding similar spirits on the committee was gratifying—“a special breed of folks,” she said.

While being honored for her work, Bohanon cited the contributions of others in helping to tell the story of

Margaret Morton/Loudoun Now

Al Van Huyck, left, and Donna Bohanon were in the spotlight Sunday at the Loudoun History Awards ceremony.

Loudoun’s black residents, including the Carver School alumni in Purcellville, Louetta Watkins, the Rev. Michelle Thomas, Mary Randolph and the late Sherry Sanabria, who featured the Settle Dean Cabin and the Arcola Slave Quarters in her paintings.

It was Taylorstown resident Phil Ehrenkranz, along with Lori Kimball and Mitch Diamond, who nominated long-

time preservationist and environmentalist Al Van Huyck for the award.

Ehrankranz said his nomination is unusual in that he had known Van Huyck for less than three months. However, both men have lived in western Loudoun since the 1960s and both had LOCAL HISTORY HONORS continues on page 29

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November 12, 2015

This Week

fresh, raw Chesapeake Bay oysters, to go with North Gate’s wines. The organization participates in the oyster shell recycling program; shells are reseeded with baby oysters and returned to the bay.

Eric Hutchinson. Jeff LeBlanc will perform works from his new album, Vision, which is described as somewhat R&B and somewhat soulful.

Tickets are $25.

ON THE RUN Lace Up for Learning 5K

Don’t see your event listed?

Email us at calendar@loudounnow.com.

Saturday, Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m.; Brambleton Town Center, 42395 Ryan Road, Ashburn. Details: laceupforlearning.com/registration

ON STAGE Thursday, Nov. 12-Friday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 14, 2:30 and 7 p.m.; Tuscarora High School, 801 N. King St., Leesburg.

The Brambleton Group sponsors this run, benefiting Loudoun County’s schools. General admission for 5K is $31, $25 for those 18 and younger; mascot mini mile is $10; snooze for schools is $15.

Details: tuscarora-hs.ticketleap. com/anne-frank

Making a Difference 5K

‘The Diary of Anne Frank’

Sunday, Nov. 15, 8 a.m. ; Sanders Corner Elementary, 43100 Ashburn Farm Parkway, Ashburn.

Tuscarora Theatre Department presents this historic piece of literature in a production that brings the audience on stage with the actors.

Tickets are $10.

Ken Ludwig’s ‘Lend Me A Tenor’ Thursday, Nov. 12-Saturday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 15, 2 p.m.; Broad Run High School, 21670 Ashburn Road, Ashburn.

Contact: 571-252-2305

Contact: ou96@yahoo.com

Live Music: Josh Walker Sunday, Nov. 15, 2-5 p.m. North Gate Vineyard, 16031 Hillsboro Road, Purcellville.

Details: joshuawalker.net or northgatevineyard.com

Broad Run’s Theatre Department presents this two-hour comedy that is sure to keep audience members laughing and on the edge of their seats. General admission is $10, $5 for students and sold at the door.

Josh Walker’s solo guitar performances mix all-instrumental versions of jazz with Latin American music, classical and original compositions performed on acoustic, nylon string guitar.

‘The Pink Panther Strikes Again!’

Thursday, Nov. 19, 7-9:30 p.m.; 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Purcellville. Details: 868estatevineyards.com

Thursday, Nov. 19-Saturday Nov. 21, 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 21, 2 p.m.; Riverside High School, 19019 Upper Belmont Place, Lansdowne.

Contact: marilyn.gilligan@lcps.org Riverside High School presents it’s very first production, “The Pink Panther Strikes Again!,” under the direction of Marilyn Gilligan. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and sold at the door.

The Vine: Super Tuscans

The Vine is a monthly women’s fourcourse dinner that offers a chance to socialize and learn about wine and wine pairings. This month’s installment features wines from Tuscany. $40 per person.

The third annual run, in memory of former Sanders Corner Elementary Principal Kathy Hwang, raises funds to launch “I Read to the Principal” programs at four Loudoun elementary schools. Register at potomac. enmotive.com. $40 race-day registration.

WEEKEND PICKS It’s All In A Night Sky Friday, Nov. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal’s Gap Road, Sterling.

Details: loudoun.gov/claudemoorepark Orbit around various stations that explain the phases of the moon, constellations and the rest of the solar system. The evening will end with marshmallow-toasting around the campfire. $5 per person, except children 3 years and younger accompanied by a registered adult are free.

NIGHT LIFE Jawga Boyz with Forsaken Saturday, Nov 21, 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 8 p.m.); Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg.

These Athens, GA, boys celebrate the redneck way of life through their dirty south beats and country-twang style. Tickets are $15-$50.

LIBATIONS Shucking Around at North Gate Saturday, Nov. 14 , Noon-5:30 p.m.; North Gate Vineyard, 16031 Hillsboro Road, Purcellville.

Details: northgatevineyard.com Shucking Around Oysters will serve

Sunday, Nov. 15, 7-11 p.m.; Adroit Theory Brewery, 404 Browning Court, Purcellville. Details: buncearoo.com Two musical powerhouses team up for this show. Matt Hires has toured since 2008, supporting such artists as Needtobreathe, Matchbox Twenty, Paolo Nutini, The Goo Goo Dolls and

ogists read the above-ground clues that often guide them to locations for field work. Comfortable walking shoes recommended. $5-10 tickets can be purchased in the gift shop the day of the tour.

Round Hill Writers Holiday Book Sale Saturday, Nov. 14, noon-4 p.m.; Town of Purcellville Train Station, 200 N. 21st St., Purcellville. Details: Round Hill Writers Group on Facebook Books by Loudoun County authors will be available for sale, as well as baked goods, tea and coffee.

The authors’ work covers a wide range of genres, including children’s books, an anthology of heroic short stories, fantasy, caregiving and fiction books of many varieties. Girl Scouts will wrap gifts for shoppers who make a donation. Free admission.

2015 Catoctin Holiday Art Tour Saturday, Nov. 14-Sunday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Gateway Gallery Cooperative & Gift Shop, 38615 Morrisonville Road, Lovettsville.

Details: catoctinart.com This driving tour leads visitors to eight studios where 21 artists produce and showcase their work. Food and wine will be served. Free.

UPCOMING Freeze Your Gizzard 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run Saturday, Nov. 21, 7 a.m. day-of registration starts, 9 a.m. race starts; Ida Lee Park, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg. Details: 703-777-1368 or leesburgva.gov Runners of all skill levels are invited to this 11th annual run, put on by Leesburg Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with Loudoun Interfaith Relief. Advance registration fees are: $25 plus two cans of food per person for the 5K run and $10 per person for the 1-mile run. Race-day registration fees are: $30 per person for 5K and $15 per person for 1-mile run.

Loudoun Lyric Opera: ‘Barber of Seville’

Details: tallyholeesburg.com

Matt Hires & Jeff LeBlanc

loudounnow.com

Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville.

Details: franklinparkartscenter.org

Archaeology Walking Tour Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.; Oatlands, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg.

Details: oatlands.org Join David Clark of the Loudoun Archaeological Foundation for an archaeology walking tour of the Oatlands property. Learn how archaeol-

The two-act opera by Giocchino Rossini, has become known as one of the greatest masterpieces of comedy within music. It is sung in Italian with English subtitles. $25 for general admission; $20 for senior citizens; $15 for students with ID; free for those 18 and younger.

LOCOLIVING

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LOUDOUN HISTORY HONORS continued from page 27

developed active interest in matters of heritage and environmental protection.

Surprisingly their paths only recently crossed, meeting during at a Loudoun County Preservation and Conservation Coalition meeting in August. Van Huyck, a retired international planner and former Loudoun County Planning Commission chairman, chairs the organization.

Ehrenkranz said he was impressed

by Van Huyck’s “great depth of knowledge and grasp of many complex issues,” as well as the intelligent and dedicated members of the group.

Serving as a planning commissioner from 1996 to 2003, Van Huyck championed smart growth policies and played a key role in amending the county’s Comprehensive Plan to promote rural conservation, providing a foundation for future preservation initiatives, Ehrenkranz said.

In 2007, he and Kimball co-founded the coalition, a group of 30 local and regional organizations that advocate county and state policies to protect the county’s historic resources, scenic landscape and shared heritage. In 2013, Van Huyck was named the Preservation Society of Loudoun County’s Preservationist of the Year.

Still active in local issue, Van Huyck briefs the county’s elected and staff on preservation issues, and is “a respected, consulted voice representing the preservation community,” Ehrenkranz said.

Accepting the award, Van Huyck recalled that his interest in preservation began in 1969 when he and his wife, then living in Arlington, bought an 19th century stone house along the Blue Ridge. The house was derelict and had not been lived in for 30 years. Throughout the next 46 years, they gradually made it their full-time home.

Van Huyck said he learned an important lesson from Loudoun historian John Lewis, who he told the couple they were responsible for handing the property on to the next generation.

“That struck me as being what history is all about,” Van Huyck said.

While serving on the Planning Commission, Van Huyck said he realized “we

WORKSHOP: Demystifying Social Media The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce will examine the topic of Demystifying Social Media as part of its Small Business Workshop Series, from 8 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 19.

The workshop features Lisa Karl, partner at Savvy Digital Business. She

November 12, 2015 |

have the opportunity to bring our heritage and environmental work into the public policy arena—all history translates into public policy.” That’s a lesson he has been emphasizing for many years.

However, he added a note of caution when encouraging business uses, such as breweries. “It’s important to have a viable rural economy, but it’s very important that its context is maintained,” Van Huyck said. “We are the land stewards of the 200,000 rural acres.”

He said the coalition would keep a close eye on the planned update of the county’s General Plan and urged those in the public interest sector to oppose the pressure to allow more housing in the Transition Area.

“We need a strong, united voice, so get involved next year,” he said.

Contact Margaret Morton at mmorton@loudounnow.com. brings 25 years of writing, research and marketing experience to developing social strategies for small businesses that work.

The workshop will be held in the chamber’s conference, 19301 Winmeade Drive, Suite 210, in Lansdowne.

Cost is $20 for chamber members, $35 for non-members. Register at loudounchamber.org.

29

SONGS AND STORIES continued from page 26

ally and acoustically, and they’ve bought into our concept.”

To start, Songs, Stories and Gas Money is slated for five dates, beginning with Wright’s set this weekend and continuing next in 2016—Greene says those specific dates should be announced within the next week.

“We hope this concept finds an audience in Loudoun—the listening room vibe and smaller venue is one of the few ways to attract some elite singer-songwriters here,” Greene said. “The Tally Ho has been a game changer as far as bringing great music to a large venue in Loudoun, and we can only hope to follow up on that success with the acoustic singer-songwriter genre. The future of Songs, Stories and Gas Money clearly lies in the public’s hand.”

Stay tuned for additional show dates and, in the meantime, join Wright’s musical circle of sharing beginning at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 14, at The Barns at Hamilton Station. Tickets are set at $15 per person with light fare and wine available for purchase. For additional venue details, go to thebarnsathamiltonstation. com.

Contact Samantha Bartram at sbartram@loudounnow.com.

Register Now For Our

Winter Break Fun Ice Skating Camp December 28 to December 31

Register on-line at www.ashburnice.com

We Offer Daily Public Ice Skating And Birthday Parties The Ashburn Ice House is Located at 21595 Smith Switch Rd., Ashburn, VA 20147 703-858-0300 - www.ashburnice.com

Get Your Last Minute Gifts for the skater in your family At the Ashburn Ice House Pro-Shop

30 |

November 12, 2015

loudounnow.com

Opinion OurView Hard Work Ahead With last week’s elections, two more long-time county government leaders were added to the retirement rolls. When the terms of County Chairman Scott K. York and Eugene Delgaudio expire Dec. 31, no supervisor will have more than four years of experience in office. Those two combined for 37.

On the School Board, Brenda Sheridan, in the Sterling District, takes over as the senior member.

She’s served five years.

Certainly, experience is not a prerequisite for political service. And it can be a detriment, as those on Capitol Hill frequently demonstrate. However, understanding what came before can be as important as the fresh ideas new leaders bring.

As examples, those serving in Loudoun’s government today may look at the data centers and wineries across the landscape as important community assets, but they may not realize the policy choices and regulatory decisions that allowed those segments of the county’s economy to flourish.

With a swing of one or two votes, western Loudoun’s hillsides could just as easily have been covered with rooftops instead of grape vines and the county’s famed “date center ally” could have long ago been divided into suburban house lots.

A helpful lesson may come quickly in the new terms. Candidates for the Board of Supervisors and the School Board scored campaign points with their pledge to offer universal full-day kindergarten. They’ll find there is no quick fix for that challenge. It will take a lot of money and several years to fulfill that promise.

That’s the same with most issues they’ll come across in the months ahead.

Good government requires hard work. Some of our newly elected leaders realize that. Others will find out quickly—just like their more senior colleagues began to discover four years ago.

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YourViews Fulfilling A Vital Responsibility To the Editor: When I moved to Loudoun County in 1994, I was surprised and impressed with the quality and robustness of the several local newspapers that were thriving here, in contrast to trends toward consolidation and contraction happening elsewhere.

During two decades of tumultuous change and phenomenal growth in Loudoun, these newspapers have each played critical roles in informing citizens about the local issues that most effect their lives, providing forums for debate and fostering critical civic engagement.

As a former newspaper reporter and journalist for 30 years, I know the hard work and dedication required of reporters and editors to accurately cover local news to fulfill a vital responsibility in a free society. As a public official for nearly 20 years, I know how pivotal it is for citizens to have unbiased and accurate reporting on the issues that will directly impact their communities and their lives.

As the transformation of print media and consolidation accelerated in recent years, we have been fortunate that Loudoun’s competitive newspaper landscape, while often challenged, largely withstood the trend.

Strong competition in newsgathering and multiple news outlets is the lifeblood of democracy and a bulwark to corruption—and when done right ensures a voice for the powerless as well as the powerful. Thus, on the very day that voters in Loudoun confounded conventional wisdom and brought dramatic and historic change to local government, it was a great shock, and shame, to learn of the demise of Leesburg Today.

Fortunately, with the launch of Loudoun Now just a week later, our community has the opportunity to continue to resist the trend toward contraction, and ultimately a degradation of local news coverage. As Loudoun citizens face critical decisions that will have significant impacts far into our future, more voices—not less—are called for. The competitive array of Loudoun newspapers, which has sustained quality reporting and journalism across the board, has served us well in the past and deserves our nurturing today and into the future.

Thank you and best wishes to the dedicated journalists and supporters of Loudoun Now.

LoudounNow

Editor Norman K. Styer nstyer@loudounnow.com

Senior Writer Margaret Morton mmorton@loudounnow.com

Is published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC Leesburg, VA 20178 571-442-3177

Managing Editor Danielle Nadler dnadler@loudounnow.com

Photographer Douglas Graham dgraham@loudounnow.com

Roger L. Vance Mayor, Town of Hillsboro Editor in Chief, HistoryNet Editor, American History Contributing Writers Dusty Smith Kara Clark Rodriquez Samantha Bartram Advertising Director Susan Styer sstyer@loudounnow.com

November 12, 2015 |

loudounnow.com

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