Leesburg, VA July 2024

WHETHER YOU'RE CAVING OR DIGGING INTO A GOOD BOOK, SUMMER IS A TIME FOR EXPLORATION AND NEW EXPERIENCES

Sleep Disorders Are a Major Problem and We can Help!

In order to be your best, you have to sleep your best. Whether it is consultation regarding lifestyle changes or testing for vitamin D-3 deficiency, we are here for you. We can also assess your need for a CPAP, or another device to help you sleep and fight sleep apnea. A much better approach to treating apnea is the Panthera device. It is made by a dentist and brings your chin forward (just like in doing CPR) to open the airway. It is very effective and easy to wear. For most people it does the job as well as a CPAP and in some cases even better. There are many other ways to deal with apnea- most of these are surgical-but the above ideas are simple and generally quite easy to implement for most people.

Book An Appointment With Dr. Brown Today And Live Your Best Life!

Dr. Jeffrey L. Brown DENTIST

Dr. Brown understands sleep apnea and how it correlates to TMJ treatment. His knowledge in the combined fields of TMJ, sleep and orthodontics has given him a perspective unlike most other practitioners who perform basic dentistry. In addition, he has also learned the advanced techniques involved in expanding an airway so that both children and adults can breathe better.

Reading to Explore

It speaks to Loudoun County’s values that, at the Town of Leesburg’s most recent small business awards, it conferred its George C. Marshall Award to a retiring librarian. Alexandra Gressitt served the Thomas Balch Library for 20 years, demonstrating “exemplary commitment to the community,” with her leadership, vision and community service.

YEA! entrepreneur Hyeyong Caitlynn Jeon recognizes the power of books to create. Her own story of learning about and dealing with her emotions about her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis is designed to help other children feel supported and understood.

We also offer up a selection of local authors who can deepen our understanding of the past or help expand your child’s imagination. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that we who put out a printed magazine are ourselves “readers.” We value reading for its ability to transport us to new worlds, new experiences and deeper empathy for our fellow man. We hope you’ll take the opportunity this summer to expand your horizons a bit, and explore the unknown in a way that enriches all of us as members of the human race who all aspire to a better future for all.

MELINDA GIPSON, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR @LEESBURGLIFESTYLE

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Hann Livingston | hann.livingston@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Melinda Gipson | melinda.gipson@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

The Arc of Loudoun Serves Disabled Adults and Children

The Arc of Loudoun’s Opportunuty Breakfast gave Mark Soiland the opportunity to share his incredible journey to recover after a severe brain injury. Working with The Arc’s Ability Fitness Center, he has progressed from a wheelchair to a planned water-skiing trip and his delivery of one of the breakfast keynotes. His speech spotlighted the fact that the Arc serves adults and children with disabilities. Lisa Max, Arc CEO said, “That’s what The Arc of Loudoun is all about – moving forward together, sometimes in inches, other times in miles – but always with great respect and a whole lot of hope.... At The Arc of Loudoun, there’s always hope!” See thearcofloudoun.org/give

Maestro Hayden Denesha Succeeds Kim Allen Kluge

Dr. Hayden Denesha has been appointed Music Director of the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra.  In 2020, Maestro Denesha joined Loudoun Symphony as Music Director, Loudoun Symphony Youth Orchestra (LSYO), and under his baton, LSYO has grown to four ensembles serving 215 young musicians. He also serves as Artist in Residence and Director of Instrumental Studies of Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania. He holds conducting degrees from Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University and University of South Carolina.

Photography: Ashley Brody Photography

We're the bank for that.

For all of the important things in life, allow us to be a part of what matters most. We help our customers reach their personal and financial goals From banking to lending and wealth management, we’re here to serve you And make important life events a little more special

how to GROW A CAVE

EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF LURAY CAVERNS THIS SUMMER

120 years. That is how long it takes just to grow one inch of Luray Caverns. But make no mistake, the caverns are growing.

Like Luray Caverns, most caves result from a relatively straightforward process in nature, consisting of a layer of limestone, mildly acidic water and carbon dioxide multiplied over millions of years.

In the case of Luray, the caverns began to take shape after limestone in Shenandoah Valley formed as a result of an inland sea.

Like most caves, rainwater picked up diluted carbonic acid when it seeped through

decaying vegetation in the soil above that seeped down into the limestone. The hollowing-out of the caverns occurred as the acidified rainwater made its way into the fissures and cracks of the rock, dissolving and eroding layers along the way.

Over time, rainwater filled all the openings in the limestone, enlarging the existing fissures and crevices.  Eventually, the water descended into lower levels of the Earth leaving huge limestone chambers behind. With the large volume of water finally subsided, only a very slow seepage occurred. This is where nature’s design process truly began.

Some rocks contain calcium carbonate. To this day, when this compound enters the chambers, it gives off carbon dioxide and from this exposure, a chemical reaction occurs. Droplets of lime begin to form into a thin deposit of crystallized calcite. Over time, these form stalactites on the cave ceiling or stalagmites when they drop upon the cavern floor – giving the Caverns its distinct ornate design.

This process over hundreds of millions of years is how a cave grows. To see for yourself what nature and time can do, stop by Luray Caverns for a visit.

To plan your trip, visit luraycaverns.com

BUILDING A BACKYARD ESCAPE

AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN, SPORTS COURT AND MULTIPLE OUTDOOR PAVILIONS MAKE ENTERTAINING AT HOME FUN

ARTICLE BY JOSH KANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KANE LANDSCAPES

This Centreville home was purchased with an eye towards the best of both worlds: a larger than average property due to the lot's location, while still being in a friendly, close-knit neighborhood.  Kane Landscapes was engaged to design the entire property to allow for a simple family weekend, a large party or even a backyard wedding. The new landscape consists of paver driveway accents, a large pool with a waterfall wall and spa, large covered deck with outdoor kitchen, two pavilions, a sports court for private family fun, a vegetable garden and even an outdoor shower tucked away in the garden. To book your consultation, see kanelandscapes.com

Embark on journeys through Loudoun and beyond from the cozy confines of your favorite chair

Arm Chair Adventures

Feeling the urge to explore but strapped for time, cash, or energy? When weather or circumstances disrupt travel plans, a captivating read can offer an equally rewarding escape. Here are three fascinating works by local authors that ignite curiosity and fuel imagination, all available at Birch Tree Bookstore on West Market downtown.

ARTICLE BY JEANNE GODFROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIRCH TREE BOOKSTORE

In Dirt Don’t Burn: A Black Community’s Struggle for Educational Equality Under Segregation , Larry Roeder and Barry Harrelson craft a compelling narrative that offers a glimpse into the journey of desegregation in Loudoun County from the perspective of often overlooked figures within the local African American community. Through narratives from rare primary source material, the authors illuminate how a convergence of determined individuals navigated the challenges of local politics, racism, and inequity to champion equal educational opportunities for all citizens of Loudoun. “This book documents the important and neglected story of the education of African Americans in Loudoun County.

press.georgetown.edu/Book/Dirt-Dont-Burn

Paul Kreingold’s “Potomac Marble: A History of the Search for the Ideal Stone” delves into the remarkable tale of reconstructing America’s Capital City. After the British Army razed Washington, D.C. in 1814, President Monroe enlisted architect Benjamin Latrobe to helm the project, opting for Potomac Marble for its unparalleled beauty and durability. Kreingold traces their journey through Noland’s Ferry, White’s Ferry, and modern-day route 15 to acquire this exquisite stone. The narrative showcases George Washington’s Potomac Company’s involvement, details the quarrying process, and unveils how the author discovered the location of Latrobe’s chosen quarry—previously lost to history.

potomacrocks.com/wordpress

For younger adventurers, Craig Bradley’s Peter Polo series is an exhilarating expedition into the world of Genghis Khan. Penned by Bradley, a retired Foreign Service Officer with a penchant for travel and exploration, the series delves into the escapades of Peter Polo, a fictional sibling of Marco Polo. In Peter Polo and the Snow Beast of Hunza , the great Khan tasks Peter to solve the puzzling disappearance of the sacred snow leopards of Hunza. “This book is just like the adventures I loved most as a child—exciting, compulsively readable, and with just the right number of twists.”

belleislebooks.com/craigbradley.html

Delve

Participate

live theatre

June 29 & July 13 at Oatlands in Leesburg July 20 at ONO Offshore in Chantilly August 3 at Casanel Winery in Leesburg

August 9 at Creek’s Edge Winery in Lovettsville

August 17 at C’est Bon by Savoir Fare in Round Hill

August

Expand

LOUDOUN CARES HONORS VOLUNTEERS FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

Celebrating Community Heroes

Volunteering

is a great way to explore how you can help your community.

Volunteering is a great way to explore how you can help your community. In a heartfelt ceremony that resonated with a spirit of gratitude and admiration, Loudoun County gathered in May to pay tribute to those unsung heroes who embody selflessness and servant-hearted commitment to volunteering. Among the recipients of this year’s prestigious awards are individuals and teams who serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us how volunteerism can help foster a stronger, more connected society.

Loudoun Cares, a local non-profit, hosts the annual event, which is sponsored by local businesses who share a mission to pour back into the communities they serve. This year’s event took place at Marie De Fleur in Lansdowne Woods. The President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Tony Howard emceed the ceremony and County Chair Phylis J. Randall honored the local faith community as well as volunteerism in her keynote. Sterling Volunteer Fire Company Chief David Short also spoke to the continuing great need and importance of volunteering.

The evening concluded on a bitter-sweet note with the announcement of the retirement of Valerie Pisierra, the Executive Director of Loudoun Cares at the end of this month. Valerie has served as ED since 2016 and has been an integral force for giving and volunteerism throughout Loudoun County. Valerie’s leadership helped unite and align Loudoun County residents to help those in need across hundreds of non-profits. “Working together with a collaborative spirit and strong relationships is the only way to make a lasting difference,” she said. The awards included: Judy Hines Service of a Lifetime Award to Capt. Richard Payne, Retired, for his tireless efforts with the Knights of Columbus and the Loudoun County Commission on Aging.

Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award to Deatema Abdul-Latif and DeeDee Schrader, recognized for their invaluable contributions to APAH-Loudoun View and A Bright Spot respectively.

Outstanding Adult Volunteer Team Award to The Dulles Eagle Cam Team from Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, whose collaborative efforts enriched our understanding of local wildlife.

Outstanding Senior Public Safety Award to Debra Farrar of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary Unit, for her commitment to public safety.

Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award to Sheila Green-Singleton, for her work with Women Giving Back.

Outstanding Senior Volunteer Team Award to The Loudoun Medicare Counseling Team, for assisting seniors navigate their healthcare options.

Outstanding Volunteer Team Award to Sensory Santa, a heartwarming initiative by The Arc of Loudoun, ensuring inclusivity and joy during the holiday season.

Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award to David Chinn, for his service with Loudoun Habitat for Humanity.

Outstanding Volunteer Project Award to Wegmans – Leesburg/Sterling, recognized for their partnership with Loudoun Hunger Relief, addressing food insecurity in our community.

Outstanding Volunteer Project Leader Award to Mike Wilkins, whose leadership with Loudoun County Commission on Aging has made a lasting impact on seniors’ lives.

Outstanding Youth Innovator Award to Prakhya Koya, whose initiative Leap4u showcases the power of youth in driving positive change.

Outstanding Youth Volunteer Team Award to The Girl emPower Summit Committee, empowering young women through the Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls.

Gabriella Miller Youth Volunteer Award to Nicole Smith, for her dedication to Women Giving Back.

Outstanding Corporate Volunteer Team Award to Abaco Cares, recognized for their partnership with Women Giving Back, demonstrating the importance of corporate social responsibility.

Looking to be acclaimed as next year’s hero? Browse the Loudoun Cares Volunteer Center at volunteer. loudouncares.org for opportunities.

AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST

Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Think Texas home-style ranch meets Southern luxury. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. Whether you’re a new or experienced golfer, the expansive,

ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE

“Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more.”

18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.

A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets. Guests can interact with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen, and make s’mores fireside at one of the many fire-pits around the resort. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property without feeling crowded by other guests.

The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-totable dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors such as local wagyu beef and fresh garden greens grown at the on-site garden. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and CONTINUED >

“The views are breathtaking , and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation.”

encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, or light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place. Eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace with appetizers, small plates and cocktails. Listen to live music on the terrace and take in the night sky or cool off with a refreshing beverage after a day of activities at this charming spot. Located at the center of the resort, indoor and outdoor seating is thoughtfully arranged to invite guests to relax, unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.

After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com

RO A D CHOW

FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACKS GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERY TASTE PALATE IN THE FAMILY.

ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP

Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? These easy-to-pack and satisfying snacks are a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare them together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!

DIRECTIONS:

1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups quick oats

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/3 cup apple butter

• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup pepitas

• 1/2 cup raisins

2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.

3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)

4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.

5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.

TRAIL MIX

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup puffed quinoa or puffed millet

• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

• 1/2 cup whole roasted almonds

• 1/2 cup raw pepitas

• 1/2 cup raw cashews

• 1/2 cup dried banana chips (broken in half)

• 1/4 cup chopped dried mango or papaya

• 2 tablespoons candied ginger

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chunks (or chocolate chips)

DIRECTIONS:

1/ In a medium mixing bowl, toss all ingredients together until evenly combined.

2/ Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month or in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK

vacation VIBES

THESE EXOTIC COCKTAILS WILL TRANSPORT YOU TO PARADISE

Vacation time is just around the corner. We are dreaming of sitting on a secluded beach, sipping exotic cocktails with umbrellas in them. But why wait till vacation to enjoy a fun cocktail? These two easy and refreshing classics will instantly transport you to paradise.

Piña Colada

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 oz cream of coconut

• 2 oz light rum

• 3 oz pineapple juice

• Juice of ½ lime

• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple

• 1/2 cup ice

• Pineapple wedge for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

Blend frozen pineapple and ice for a couple of seconds. Add in the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth. (To make thicker, add ice. Add pineapple juice if too thick.) Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

Bay Breeze

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz vodka

• 3 oz cranberry juice

• 2 oz pineapple juice

• Pineapple wedge & maraschino cherry for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

Put desired amount of ice in glass, add vodka and pineapple juice. Top with cranberry juice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry and umbrella (of course).

YEA! Students Earn $5,000 in Awards

LOUDOUN’S KIDS BEGIN THEIR ADVENTURE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Hyeyong Caitlynn Jeon, a 10th grader at Independence High School, took home the top prize in the Loudoun Young Entrepreneurs Academy’s 8th Annual Investor Pitch Competition. Her non-profit, AriAri, seeks to support children whose mothers have been diagnosed with breast cancer with age-appropriate books. Ari’s Journey, her first book, explains the different emotions a child with a parent diagnosed with breast cancer goes through to show other kids they’re not alone. “I’m Ari,” she proclaimed confidently to the investor panel, “My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and I want to share my journey to help others.” She will use her $1,500 award to publish Ari’s Journey this fall, in anticipation that it will become a series.

This year, 22 student entrepreneurs pitched their business and nonprofit startups to a panel of local business leaders. Presented by the Loudoun Chamber Foundation and the Loudoun Economic Development Authority, YEA! Loudoun is a 7-month program that teaches students how to develop, pitch and launch their own small business. Other winners: $1,000 to Arjun Virmani of Nysmith School for his Silent Pickleball; $1,000 to Madison Shields of Briar Woods High School for Simply Scrubs, an all-natural organic body scrub for those with eczema; $500 to Praneel Sangeetham of Trailside Middle School for StylAid, an app that uses AI to suggest outfits; $500 to Nikita Maheshwari of Trailside Middle School for Magnetical Magic, magnetic clasp jewelry; and $500 to Akshay Bharath of Briar Woods High School for Tippy, a digital tipping platform. Applications for next year’s YEA! class are posted here: loudounchamber.org/yea

ARTICLE BY MELINDA GIPSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTY SHOUP, BLUE LION MULTIMEDIA