Serving Heroes at Boulder Crest

On Saturday evening, January 13, Chef Dan Hampton prepared a sumptuous meal of antipasto chopped salad, chicken pesto parmesan, roasted vegetables, and polenta rounds with brownies and cookies for dessert. Tom Edmonds, Steve Krisa, Doug MacLean, Reggie and his son Elliot Baker, and Peter Vaka assisted.
Serving Heroes at Boulder Crest Peter Vaka 2024-01-15 05:00:00Z 0

Grace-to-Go Feeding Those in Need

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On Sunday afternoon, January 14, 2024, Fred and Kate Williams, Howard Moody, John Kimball, Tom Edmonds, Behzad Parva, and Maryse's husband Michael Gauvreau Bugs Forsythe and Chuck Reavis (camera shy), guided by Buddy Sadak, prepared over 100 chicken dinners for those who need help with meals in Leesburg.
Grace-to-Go Feeding Those in Need Peter Vaka 2024-01-15 05:00:00Z 0

Supporting Boulder Crest 

On Friday, December 28th. Ron Rogos, Brian Treat, Reggie Baker’s son Elliot, John Kimball and Mike Heath from Boulder Crest delivered dinner meals from Tuskies to the four families staying in the cabins.  They were so appreciative of not only the meals but the entire Boulder Crest experience.  
Supporting Boulder Crest Peter Vaka 2023-12-28 05:00:00Z 0

Walking the Talk

Members of the Leesburg Rotary Club took their Saturday to assist the Good Sheppard women's shelter by building a walkway to the entrance and redoing the wooden deck in the back. An example of putting words into action and our motto, Service Above Self". A special thanks to all those who participated.
Walking the Talk Peter Vaka 2023-09-17 04:00:00Z 0

Feeding the Hungry

The food sorting crew emptied 6 of the bins that were overflowing with donated food for Loudoun Hunger Relief. 
Foods are sorted into milk crates by type and then stacked along a wall for distribution.  
“Many hands make light work “
Feeding the Hungry Peter Vaka 2023-09-04 04:00:00Z 0

Extending a Helping Hand

Mansour Moselehi w/ Jenny Goff
The Rotary Club of Leesburg working with Jenny Goff of Loudoun Caregivers assisted Mansour Moselehi, 84 with cleaning up his property. Unable to do the work himself, Mansout reached out to Loundoun Caregivers for help. This is the second project we have participated in partnership with Loundoun Caregivers. The first was building a set of stairs for a handicapped man living alone. Our members showed up at 8:30 Saturday morning with tools in hand along with bags of mulch. In 3.5 hours they completed the job filling 50 yard bags with yard waste. Mr. Moselehi was thrilled with the makeover.
Extending a Helping Hand Peter Vaka 2023-06-01 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Awards $45,000 in Scholarships 
 

L-R Pushti Bhagat, Katheryn Homa, Daniel Bruno
At the May 18th meeting of The Rotary Club of Leesburg, three seniors from local high schools were each awarded $15,000 scholarships as part of the on-going program started 38 years ago by Rotarian Perry Winston.  Shown here are Pushti Bhagat from Heritage High School who will be attending George Mason, Kathryn Homa, Loudoun County High School who will be going to Duke University and Daniel Bruno from Tuscarora High School who has chosen Michigan State University.   
 
Rotary Club of Leesburg Awards $45,000 in Scholarships   Peter Vaka 2023-05-27 04:00:00Z 0
About the Rotary Club of Leesburg Peter Vaka 2023-05-23 04:00:00Z 0

Holiday Meals for Heroes 

On 30 December, with the support of Tuscarora Restaurant, John Kimball, Chuck Reavis, Brian Treat and Reggie Baker delivered New Years Eve Dinners to four families at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, VA. Boulder Crest provides councilling for veterans and first responders and their families.

Every holiday season, Boulder Crest provides meals to families staying at the retreat during the Christmas and New Years weekends. This is the first year the Rotary Club of Leesburg has supported this annual event. The opportunity was made possible after a corporate sponsor fell out. The BCR staff greatly appreciated the Club’s eagerness and ability to meet their emergent request. Boulder Crest Retreat is an ongoing clubproject throughout the year with volunteer Rotarians preparing meals onsite for the residents and their families.

 

Holiday Meals for Heroes Peter Vaka 2023-01-03 05:00:00Z 0

Rotarian of the Year

Ron Rogos named Rotarian of the Year
 
 
Immediate Past President Bruce Roberts announced that Ron Rogos is the Rotarian of the Year for 2022. The award is in recognition for the Rotarian who has contributed the most to the club and Rotary. 
 
Rotarian of the Year Peter Vaka 2022-07-16 04:00:00Z 0
Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party Peter Vaka 2022-03-15 04:00:00Z 0

2020 Perry Winston Scholarship Awards

The Rotary Club of Leesburg has awarded its 2020 Perry Winston Scholarships to Anna Lunt (Tuscarora High School), Megan Seaman (Heritage High School) and Farrah Raj (Heritage High School). The annual awards support Leesburg students who demonstrate economic needs, academic excellence and a commitment to Service Above Self.

“The members of the Rotary Club of Leesburg are pleased to honor Anna, Megan and Farrah for their many accomplishments and to support their higher education pursuits. We applaud their academic achievements and commitment to serving their communities,” said Valérie Beaudoin, Chair of the Rotary Club of Leesburg Scholarship Committee. “During these challenging times, we are in special need of a next generation of leaders who put Service Above Self, and we have every confidence that these students are among those who will make this world a better place.”

Through its Perry Winston Scholarship Fund, the Rotary Club of Leesburg annually awards three (3) $10,000 scholarships for higher education expenses to deserving graduating seniors from the three Leesburg high schools – Heritage High School, Loudoun County High School and Tuscarora High School. Now in its 34th year, it is one of the most generous scholarships available in Loudoun County.

2020 Perry Winston Scholarship Awards 2020-06-06 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Honors Ability Fitness Center at The Arc of Loudoun
 

Club Donates $10,000 to Local Center Serving Those with Neurological Conditions
 
LEESBURG, VA – The Rotary Club of Leesburg – a local chapter of the 1.2 million-member Rotary International whose members are dedicated to Service Above Self – donated $10,000.00 to Ability Fitness Center at The Arc of Loudoun. The money was raised as part of the Club’s annual Croquet Tournament that benefits local charities. Club President Katie Gould and 2019 Croquet Chairman Dan Hampton made the donation Thursday night during the Club’s regular weekly meeting.
 

Rotary Honors Ability Fitness Center at The Arc of Loudoun  2019-07-19 04:00:00Z 0

Have you taken your picture with Stanley yet?

The Stanley Caulkins Memorial Project has finally been installed and unveiled last Saturday. The sculpture honoring Stanley was unveiled to a crowd of more than 100, including VFW members, Rotarians, the entire Leesburg Town Council, former Leesburg Mayor Robert Sevila, Loudoun County Sheriff Michael Chapman, and Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burke. The ceremony began at 10 a.m. with a performance by the West Point Alumni Glee Club of classic World War II tune “(There’ll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs Of Dover,” followed by a color guard presentation by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1177. You can find more details here: https://loudounnow.com/2019/07/13/stanley-returns-to-king-street/
 
Make sure to do like Ernie and stop say hi to Stanley. Send us your pictures!

Have you taken your picture with Stanley yet? 2019-07-18 04:00:00Z 0
2019 Changing of the Guard 2019-07-02 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Scholars

On May 23rd, The Rotary Club of Leesburg celebrated their 2019 Scholars.  Read the full story for more details and pictures!
 
2019 Scholars 2019-05-29 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament

All had a good time at this year's Croquet Tournament! Fellowship, good food, and awesome weather. In the final match Scotland won over Bavaria.
 
All profits of the event are going to help the Ability Fitness Center at the Arc of Loudoun.
 
Click on the story for more pictures!
2019 Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament Valérie Beaudoin 2019-04-25 04:00:00Z 0

April 11 - New Member Induction

On April 11, we happy welcomed our latest member, John Kimball.
 
John is the Managing General Partner and CEO of The John Kimball Group, a newspaper industry consultancy which provides newspapers with the tools for increasing political revenue and improving their advertising sales processes. Until June 2009, Mr. Kimball was the Chief Marketing Officer at Newspaper Association of America where he managed the marketing initiatives for the newspaper industry.
He is a graduate of Michigan State University and the Harvard Business School Executive Education program. He began his newspaper career, in 1970, after service in Vietnam, where he was awarded The Purple Heart.
Kimball was the SVP of Sales at newspapers in Detroit, Denver and Northern New Jersey prior to NAA.
 
John was inducted by fellow Detroit fans Chuck Maloney, and Judge Jeanette Irby. Go Detroit!
 
 
 
 

 
April 11 - New Member Induction 2019-04-17 04:00:00Z 0

February 28, 2019 - Deborah Addo, CEO Inova Loudoun Hospital

Deborah Addo, CEO of Inova Loudoun Hospital (ILH), comes to Inova with nearly 30 years of leadership experience in healthcare operations and management. Becker’s Hospital Review recently named her one of the “50 Great African American Leaders in Healthcare to Know” and the Loudoun Business Journal recognized her as one of five “Women Who Mean Business.”
February 28, 2019 - Deborah Addo, CEO Inova Loudoun Hospital 2019-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

February 23, 2019 Boulder Crest Retreat

 
 
On Saturday, 2/23, members of the Rotary Club of Leesburg traveled to Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont and prepared a wonderful dinner for the Veterans and their families staying at the retreat. 
 
Rotarians who participated
Chef Ernie
Chef Valerie
Maryse
Rob
Howard
Frances
Katie 
Dave (and wife Kris)
Ron
 
Everyone seemed to enjoy the meal and fellowship!
February 23, 2019 Boulder Crest Retreat 2019-02-25 05:00:00Z 0
February 21, 2019 Medical Reserve Corps, Francis Rath and Luis Salcedo 2019-02-22 05:00:00Z 0
January 31, 2019 Brian Ericksen - Logistics, Analysis and Program Management 2019-01-31 05:00:00Z 0
January 17, 2019 - Lori Kimball - Oatlands Plantation Program on the Decedents of Slaves 2019-01-17 05:00:00Z 0
Nov 8 2018 - Tom Edmonds, Classification Talk 2018-11-08 05:00:00Z 0
Nov 1 2018 Speaker - Tim Hemstreet, Loudoun County Administrator 2018-11-02 04:00:00Z 0

Leesburg Halloween Parade

Posted on Nov 01, 2018
The Rotary Club of Leesburg participated in the 2018 Halloween Parade with the Heritage Interact Club. 
What is Interact? 
Interact is a volunteer organization associated with Rotary International. It is designed for youth 12-18 who want to connect with others in their school and community. Interact members have fun while carrying out service projects at the local, national, and international levels.
Leesburg Halloween Parade 2018-11-01 04:00:00Z 0
Hunt Country Party - In Support of the Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Fund 2018-08-16 04:00:00Z 0
August 2, 2018 - Speaker - Dondie and Mark McNickle - SHADE Tanzania 2018-08-02 04:00:00Z 0
July 26, 2018 Speaker - Norman Duncan - D-Day and Eisenhower 2018-07-26 04:00:00Z 0

July 19, 2018 Speaker Lisa L. Brackenbury

 

 

Our speaker, Lisa L. Brackenbury is honored to be working with the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra and Association, and notes that the discipline she learned in the arts has paid dividends in her professional endeavors.  In addition to building and maintaining strong, productive communities, Lisa believes music serves as a cultural bridge, relieves stress, and provides balance.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys playing the piano and violin, attending live music concerts, traveling with friends, and practicing yoga/pilates/barre.  She's working on re-certifying in SCUBA and acquiring FAA certification to fly drones.

July 19, 2018 Speaker Lisa L. Brackenbury 2018-07-16 04:00:00Z 0

July 12 2018 Speaker Ted Mattingly

 

Our speaker July 12, 2018, Ted Mattingly, CFM, SFP – is Director of Facilities and Administrative Services for the National Recreation and Park Association Headquarters in Ashburn, VA.  He has more than 25 years experience in facility management, administration, operations and maintenance of commercial, industrial and institutional facilities. He is a 1999 graduate of the George Mason University Professional Certificate in Facility Management Program and has been an IFMA Certified Facility Manger since 1999 and a IFMA Sustainability Facility Professional since 2015. He has been an Adjunct Professor in the GMU Facility Management Certificate Program since 2006.  He teaches FM-100 Principles of Facility Management, FM-115 Operations and Maintenance, FM-200 Communications for the Facility Manager and FM-220 – Leadership and Strategy Essentials.
 
July 12 2018 Speaker Ted Mattingly 2018-07-10 04:00:00Z 0
Rotarian of the Year 2018-07-04 04:00:00Z 0

2018 Rotary International Convention

 

Rotary Club of Leesburg attendees of the 2018 Rotary International Convention in Toronto, Canada; Valerie Beaudoin, Lynde Scheffer, Katie Gould presenting the flag to club president to Fred Williams.
2018 Rotary International Convention 2018-07-04 04:00:00Z 0

RCLB Volunteers at Boulder Crest Retreat

 

On Friday June 29, 2018, volunteers from the Rotary Club of Leesburg cooked dinner for the Vets and Families staying at boulder crest Retreat in Bluemont, Va. Chef Ernie Carnevale led the team of Raj, Rob, George, Dan, Greg, and Ron in preparing a chicken and salmon dinner. Chef Ernie’s new potato salad recipe was a great item on the menu. We all agreed, it was a wonderful way to end the Community Service year for the Rotary Club of Leesburg. We look forward to continuing to support Boulder Crest Retreat; healing heroes one family at a time.
RCLB Volunteers at Boulder Crest Retreat 2018-07-04 04:00:00Z 0

Perry Winston Scholarship Recipients

 

 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship has, since its creation in 1985, helped approximately 100 Leesburg students access college. Students are selected based on demonstrated community service, academic achievement, and financial need. They must attend one of the three high schools in Leesburg. The program has expanded over the years and for the first time this year, one scholarship was awarded to a student participating in the Pathway to the Baccalaureate program through NVCC. The students are awarded a $10k scholarship over 4 years. Congratulations to this years recipients.
Taylor Vigil-Tuscarora High School
Isabel Craun-Loudoun County High School
Eisha Basit-Heritage High School
Minahil Shabbaz-Monroe Tech
Perry Winston Scholarship Recipients 2018-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

Benefactors of Stickey Wicket Croquet Tournament

 

Loudoun Free Clinic has supported healthcare services for Loudoun County residents who would otherwise do without since 1998. Their staff includes 8 full-time and 5 part-time employees, and a dedicated group of 160 volunteers who provide more than 8,444 hours of service to more than 1,500 patients.
Loudoun Literacy Council has been changing lives through reading and learning to promote personal growth and empowerment since 1980. Their mission is to provide low-income adults and children with the literacy, communication skills, and confidence to not only attain self-sufficiency, but to thrive.
Loudoun Hunger Relief has served as Loudoun County’s primary emergency food pantry, providing food assistance to the hungry and food insecure in Loudoun. They provide fresh groceries for the whole family, plus they can help find further assistance to meet other needs through their network of partners.
Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship has helped approximately 100 Leesburg students access college. Students are selected based on demonstrated community service, academic achievement, and financial need. They must attend one of the three high schools in Leesburg.
Benefactors of Stickey Wicket Croquet Tournament 2018-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

June 14, 2018 Speaker Mark Kado

 

Our June 14, 2018 speaker, Mark A. Kado, is Panda Stonewall’s General Plant Manager. In this capacity, he directs all of Panda Stonewalls operational and maintenance activities.
Prior to becoming the GM in 2016, Kadon was the General Plant Manager overseeing Panda’s Sherman CCGT Plant in north Texas.  Kadon has been with Panda Power Funds since 2013.  With more than 25 years industry experience, Kadon has spent nearly his whole career on, or close to the deck plates – Prior to joining Panda Power Funds, Kadon held various positions with Sithe Energies and InterGen, including instrumentation and controls technician, O&M supervisor, and plant manager for power stations in New York, Oklahoma and Thailand.  Kadon has personally led the successful startup of multiple large CCGT facilities in the US and globally.  Kadon started his career by serving in the U.S. Navy as a gas turbine electrician.
June 14, 2018 Speaker Mark Kado 2018-06-12 04:00:00Z 0

Perry Winston Scholarships

 

 
Our favorite night of the year, awarding our Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship winners.
Perry Winston Scholarships 2018-05-31 04:00:00Z 0

RCLB STAR Awards

Save The Date: Oct 13, 2018

 
This event is named in honor of long-time Rotarian Stanley F. Caulkins --- Stanley F. Caulkins Tributes, Awards and Recognition.
Stanley was a World War ll hero, aviator, entrepreneur, community leader, mentor and Rotary Club of Leesburg patriarch who stood as an icon in various local and county endeavors. To celebrate his life and encourage the economic development that was a hallmark of his many achievements, The Rotary Club of Leesburg will award a Rotary STAR for:
  • Lifetime Achievement in Economic Development
  • Innovation in Economic Development
  • Creative Use of Social Media in Economic Development
The awards will be presented to this year’s winners at a ceremony during the Rotary STAR Event, sponsored by The Rotary Club of Leesburg, at the Leesburg Airport Hangar on October 13, 2018.
 
All individual tickets include a buffet dinner, wine, beer and sodas. The evening will include a silent auction, raffle and live music from the Curve Crew.
 
visit https://rotaryclubofleesburgevents.com/ for general information, sponsorship requests, award nominations and ticket purchases.
RCLB STAR Awards 2018-05-29 04:00:00Z 0
May 24, 2018 Speaker BG Goddard 2018-05-21 04:00:00Z 0

May 17, 2018 Speaker Colonel Locklear

Our speaker, Colonel Locklear, has been a bee keeper for ten years with the Loudoun Bee-keepers Association.  He maintains three to six hives on the farm. He uses his local honey to make mead the “old historical honey wine” for his Stone House Meadery in Purceville, VA.
May 17, 2018 Speaker Colonel Locklear 2018-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

May 10, 2018 Speaker Larry Turner

 

Our speaker, Larry Turner retired from the Army in 2004 and currently works in the Pentagon as a policy writer.  A goodly part of his Army career was spent training as an artillery officer, along with equal time as an Inspector General and Intelligence Officer.
He joined the Kernstown Battlefield Association in the fall of 2015, began giving guided tours of the battlefield and the Pritchard house in 2016, and was voted to join the Board of Directors in 2017.
Recognizing the importance of artillery in the Battle of First Kernstown, he started reading up on the artillery weapons employed, where one question led to another resulting in his finding out some intriguing facts about the development, manufacture, and use of artillery fuses, particularly time, percussion and concussion fuses.
KBA Overview Presentation Outline:
  • Explains the history of the farm property, its four owners, and its acquisition by the KBA;
  • Gives an outline of the 5 battles fought on the property;
  • Explains our restoration work on the Pritchard House;
  • Lists our future goals.
 
May 10, 2018 Speaker Larry Turner 2018-05-06 04:00:00Z 0
April 26, 2018 Speaker Alan Platt "A Career in the Agency" 2018-04-24 04:00:00Z 0
April 19, 2018 Spring Pig Roast 2018-04-15 04:00:00Z 0

April 5, 2018 Speaker Kelly Burk,
Mayor

 

Mayor Burk represents the Town of Leesburg on the following:

  • Loudoun County Economic Development Commission
  • Northern Virginia Regional Commission
  • Northern Virginia Transportation Authority Advisory Committee
  • Virginia Municipal League Human Development and Education Committee
April 5, 2018 Speaker Kelly Burk,Mayor 2018-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

March 29, 2018 Speaker Tom Ramsay

 

Our speaker, Thomas Ramsay is an entrepreneur, business executive, imaging expert, and master photographer. Tom has been granted 10 patents in the domains of optics, optical disk recording, image processing, and computer-based machine learning. He has been a featured lecturer at the United Nations on the future of digital image processing and communications. He was selected from among 80,000 members of The Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM) as a special consultant to their Emerging Technology Advisory Group and was awarded a 2013 Alumnus of Notable Achievement Award from the University of Minnesota for his contributions in the photographic arts, contributions to the detection of cancer in medicine, and image processing analytics.
March 29, 2018 Speaker Tom Ramsay 2018-03-27 04:00:00Z 0

March 15, 2018 Speaker Dr. Douglas Hudgins

 

Our speaker tonight, Dr. Douglas Hudgins moved to NASA Headquarters in 2005 where he took up a Program Scientist position in the Astrophysics Division(ApD).  He currently serves as the Program Scientist for NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program (ExEP) and TESS mission, Deputy Program Scientist for the Kepler mission, and Program Officer for the Astrophysics Data Analysis Program (ADAP), ApD’s flagship research and analysis (R&A) grants program.  As ExEP Program Scientist, he is the chief architect responsible for charting the scientific course of NASA’s effort to search out and study planets that orbit stars other than our own sun.  His duties in this capacity include overseeing the development of advanced technologies that will one day enable space missions to achieve the Program’s ultimate goal—finding and characterizing potentially habitable, Earth-sized planets around nearby stars, and searching for signs of life on those worlds. 
March 15, 2018 Speaker Dr. Douglas Hudgins 2018-03-14 04:00:00Z 0
Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament May 12, 2018 2018-03-14 04:00:00Z 0

March 8, 2018 Speaker Geoff Arnold

 

Our speaker, Geoff Arnold is the Director of Broadcasting and Public Relations for the Frederick Keys, Advanced-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. In this role he serves as the radio play-by-play announcer for Keys home and road games, works as the team’s main contact to local and national media and assists with team marketing initiatives. Outside of his work with the Keys, Geoff is a freelance radio and TV broadcaster, and calls games for the ACC Network, ESPN3, the Delaware 87ers (NBA G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers) and George Washington University among others. Geoff is a 2010 grad of Dickinson College.
March 8, 2018 Speaker Geoff Arnold 2018-03-07 05:00:00Z 0

March 1, 2018 Speaker Christian Fabian, Rehau CEO

Join us March 1, 2018 as we welcome our long time named race sponsor from Rehau. Mr. Fabian joined REHAU in 1989, working as assistant to the sales manager at the company’s location in Bochum, Germany. He then held positions of increasing responsibility in sales throughout Europe, including Germany, France and London, before taking a sales management position in 1996 at the company’s Berlin location. In 2005, Mr. Fabian became director of the Industry business division for REHAU North America. In 2006, he was promoted to vice president of sales and marketing, and was appointed in 2007 to the company’s Regional Executive Board. In 2012, he was appointed chief executive officer (CEO) for REHAU North America, transitioning in 2015 to CEO, REHAU Americas. Mr. Fabian served in the German Army in 1981-82, and studied business and economics at University of Mannheim and University of Nuernberg. He holds a degree in business administration.
 
March 1, 2018 Speaker Christian Fabian, Rehau CEO 2018-02-26 05:00:00Z 0

Feb 22, 2018 Speaker_Wolfgang W.E. Samuel

 
Our February 22, 2018 speaker, Wolfgang W. E. Samuel was born in Germany in 1935, immigrated to the United States at age 16, and finished high school in Denver, Colorado, two years later. He graduated from the University of Colorado in 1960 and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Wolfgang served 30 years in the U.S. Air Force, flew strategic reconnaissance against the Soviet Union in the Cold War years and combat against North Vietnam; being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times and numerous Air Medals. He obtained an MBA from Arizona State University and graduated from the National War College at Ft McNair, Wash DC. After retirement from the Air Force in the rank of colonel, he worked for a defense contractor in the Washington area, then retired once again to write German Boy, his first book, which was introduced by Stephen Ambrose and very favorably reviewed by the New York Times. German Boy is Wolfgang's story of survival in WWII Germany and the immediate postwar years. Other books followed.
Feb 22, 2018 Speaker_Wolfgang W.E. Samuel 2018-02-20 05:00:00Z 0

February 8, 2018 Speaker: Susanne Sterbing D'Angelo

 

 
Assistant Research Professor
Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
 
Researchers receive National Science Foundation award that supports interdisciplinary brain science to explore intricacies of bat navigation.
February 8, 2018 Speaker: Susanne Sterbing D'Angelo 2018-02-05 05:00:00Z 0

Heritage High School Interact Club receiving the Interact Presidential Citation

 

 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg is proud to congratulate and acknowledge the Heritage High School Interact Club for receiving the Interact Presidential Citation 2016-2017 from Rotary International.
This is the first Interact Presidential Citation awarded in District 7610. As such, District Governor Ronnie Chantker was present as the Interact Board accepted the award.
The five prong criterion that was achieved by this extraordinary group was to:
  • Participate in at least one activity that promotes international understanding.
  • Introduce  members to other Rotary programs for young leaders, such as RYLA or Rotary Youth Exchange.
  • Participate in a school or community service project or fundraiser that supported these Rotary areas of focus; promoting peace, providing clean water, supporting education, growing local economies.
  • Plan and carry out a service project for Global Youth Service Day.
  • Participate in a career day or mentoring activity.
Pictured left to right: Rachel Llanos (former Interactor, RCLB member, HHS Teacher and Interact Club Sponsor) Interact Board: Trinity Pham, Helen Salko, Cole Guinther, Brandon Davis, Nicole Jacuzzi (Interact Club President), Fred Williams (RCLB President), Dan Hampton (RCLB former President), Ronnie Chantker (District Governor).
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos.
Heritage High School Interact Club receiving the Interact Presidential Citation 2018-01-30 05:00:00Z 0

Life Celebration: Stanley Caulkins 

Join us Feb 1, 2018 for an evening of tribute as we celebrate the life of our dear friend Stanley Caulkins.
Stanley was a member of Leesburg Rotary from 1947 to the present, serving as President in 1965. Stanley was the owner of Caulkins Jewelers for decades. He served as a Tech Sgt in the U.S. Army Air Corps and flew a B-17 Bomber as radioman during World War II. He was an avid pilot. The terminal building at the Leesburg Airport is named in his honor. 
He served on Town Council and chaired the airport commission for many years. So much can be said about Stanley through all the lives he touched and memories made. His wit and spirit will be in our hearts forever.
Photo’s courtesy of Ron Rogos.
 
 
 
 
 
Life Celebration: Stanley Caulkins 2018-01-29 05:00:00Z 0

January 25, 2018 Ronnie Chantker Rotary District 7610 Governor

 
Ronnie Chantker joined The Rotary Club of Tysons Corner in January 2003, where she served as Treasurer, Vice President/Fundraising Chair, President Elect/Membership Chair, President and Rotary Foundation chair. On the District level she served as GSE Chair, Area Membership Coordinator, member of the Finance Committee, and an Assistant Governor for NE Fairfax County (Area 10). She is a Multiple Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris Society Member, Triple Crown Member and Benefactor. She was awarded The Club Builder Award and The Rotary Foundation District Service Award by the District. She is also a graduate of the Rotary Leadership Institute. She and her husband, Art, are Major Donors.
After receiving her Accounting Degree from the University of Maryland University College she obtained her Certified Public Accounting (CPA) license and began working for an accounting firm. She now works with her husband as Chief Financial Officer for Potomac Forum, Ltd., an educational organization that provides training, workshops and conferences for government and government contractors at the executive level.
Ronnie was born in Baltimore Maryland. After meeting her future husband, Art, at the University of Maryland, they settled in Potomac, Maryland. She has two daughters and two granddaughters.
January 25, 2018 Ronnie Chantker Rotary District 7610 Governor 2018-01-24 05:00:00Z 0
No Meeting December 28, 2017 2018-01-09 05:00:00Z 0
No Meeting December 21, 2017 2017-12-17 05:00:00Z 0

RCLB at Wreaths Across America 2017

       
 
       
 
On Saturday, December 16, 2017, the RCLB took three bus loads to Wreaths Across America-Arlington National Cemetery. In a matter of just a couple hours, our road captains Dan Hampton and Chuck Reavis, directed club members Dean Worcester and family, Bill Blessing, Bruce Roberts and family, Hugh Forsyth, Howard & Sandra Moody, Katie Gould and Keith Grayshon, Dan Hampton’s family, Rachel Llanos and Petter, former District Governor Steve Cook and an over whelming number of supporters from Heritage High School Interact students and their parents, family and friends, to off load and hand out wreaths from Trucks 16 and 17 to volunteers from across the nation that lined up to pay tribute. Over 245,000 wreaths were layed for those who served. To Remember, Honor, Teach. It was an incredible morning.
RCLB at Wreaths Across America 2017 2017-12-17 05:00:00Z 0

RCLB Serves the guests at Boulder Crest Retreat

                    
 
On Friday, December 15, 2017, RCLB volunteers Dan Hampton, Valerie Beaudoin, Phil Rusciolelli, Lynde Scheffer, Hugh Forsythe, Tom Gates and Ron Rogos prepared and served dinner to 40 guests at Boulder Crest Retreat for Military & Veteran Wellness, a Loudoun County privately funded rural wellness center dedicated exclusively to our nation's combat veterans and their families. This is an amazing organization of which we are honored to assist. Healing heroes one family at a time. Well done RCLB!
RCLB Serves the guests at Boulder Crest Retreat 2017-12-17 05:00:00Z 0
RCLB Christmas Tree in Leesburg 2017-12-08 05:00:00Z 0

December 7, 2017 Speaker's Alaina Ray & Christopher Garcia – Envision Loudoun-Our county our future.
 

Our December 7, 2017 speakers both work in the Loudoun County Department of Planning and Zoning and are integral leaders in the department’s Envision Loudoun initiative. Alaina is the Deputy Director and Christopher is the Community Planning Program Manager. Envision Loudoun addresses growth, land use, transportation, community facilities and amenities, economic development, and fiscal management. Residents can participate by sharing their thoughts through a broad range of community engagement opportunities. The final will result be a New Comprehensive Plan that will serve as Loudoun County government’s guiding document for land use and development for the foreseeable future. The new comprehensive plan will outline policies for addressing the county’s most pressing issues.
December 7, 2017 Speaker's Alaina Ray & Christopher Garcia – Envision Loudoun-Our county our future.  2017-12-06 05:00:00Z 0
December 3, 2017 Grace to Go 2017-12-03 05:00:00Z 0
November 30, 2017 Speaker Colonel Ward Nickisch 2017-11-28 05:00:00Z 0

RCLB participates in District 7610 Done in a Day Project

                    
 

The RCLB participated in the Rotary District 7610 community service project "Done in a Day" on November 18, 2017. Rotarian Valerie Beaudoin spearheaded the club effort by organizing club member donations for LAWS (Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter).  A car load of donations and gift cards were delivered to Quinchela Dent-Hess, Community Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator, at Laws Saturday by Valerie Beaudoin, Maryse Wyser Pratte, Ariel Welt and Katie Gould.

If you’re not familiar with LAWS, check them out here http://www.lcsj.org/. They provide free, confidential services to adults and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. On going donations are always welcome. Additionally, for the Holidays, you might want to consider their “Adopt-a-Family” program. They match families that they’ve worked with through out the year with donors (families and organizations in our community) to provide families in need with holiday gifts.

RCLB participates in District 7610 Done in a Day Project 2017-11-19 05:00:00Z 0

Loudoun's Rotary Clubs partner for Virgin Island Hurricane Relief

 

Loudoun’s Rotarians teamed up to help with the recovery effort in the Virgin Islands aftermath of category 5 hurricanes Irma and Maria.

Representatives of five Loudoun Rotary clubs—Leesburg, Leesburg Daybreak, Purcellville, Ashburn, and Sterling—gathered at the Tuscarora Mill restaurant in Leesburg on November 14, 2017 to make the presentation. The $10,000 check presented to a representative of the Rotary Club of St. Thomas will likely be just the first step of Loudoun’s Rotary outreach.

Photo Courtesy of Loudoun Now

Loudoun's Rotary Clubs partner for Virgin Island Hurricane Relief 2017-11-14 05:00:00Z 0

November 16, 2017 Speaker Bill Hatch

Join us on November 16, 2017 to learn more about farming in Loudoun County, highlights of a career in T.V. and growing wine in Loudoun. Our speaker, Bill Hatch was born in Takoma, MD and moved to the family farm, now known as Zephaniah Farm, in 1950. Bill started a career in T.V. in 1967 televising ACC Basketball. The farm currently has 10 acres of grapes  growing 14 varieties of  grapes, presently producing about 20,000 bottles wines. Bill is President of Loudoun Wine Growers Association, Board of Directors of Loudoun Wineries Association and Board of Directors Visit Loudoun.
November 16, 2017 Speaker Bill Hatch 2017-11-14 05:00:00Z 0
Nov 2, 2017 Club Assembly 2017-11-02 04:00:00Z 0

November 9, 2017 Speaker Rear Admiral Ronald E. Boxall

 

 
Our speaker November 9, 2017 is Rear Adm. Ronald Boxall. He is a native of Holland Patent, New York. He attended The Pennsylvania State University, earning a Bachelor of Science and was commissioned in 1984. He also attended the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, where he earned a Master of Science in Information Systems and later attended the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, earning a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies.
 
Boxall’s sea duty assignments include: commander, Carrier Strike Group 3 embarked in USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74); command of USS Lake Erie (CG 70) and USS Carney  DDG 64); executive officer of USS Hue City (CG 66); combat systems officer in USS Simpson (FFG 56) and USS Ramage (DDG 61); and division officer in USS Merrill (DD 976) and USS Kinkaid (DD 965). During his seagoing career, he has made numerous deployments around the world from the Western Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans to the Baltic, Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas as well as combat operations in the Arabian Gulf and counter-narcotics operations off South America. A former Pacific Fleet Shiphandler of the Year, he was also fortunate to have been associated with four outstanding Battle “E” winning crews.  Ashore he served in numerous joint and staff billets to include: deputy director for Joint Strategic Planning (J-5) and deputy and chief of the Joint Staff Quadrennial Defense Review Office (J-8) on the Joint Staff, where he was selected as Action Officer of the Year; deputy director for Surface Warfare (N96B), executive assistant to the deputy chief of naval operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources (N8), and executive assistant to the director of Navy Warfare Integration (N8F) on the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) staff; and placement officer and deputy Surface Officer Distribution Division (PERS-41B) at Naval Personnel Command.
 
He is currently serving as the director, surface warfare, OPNAV N96 in the Pentagon. Boxall’s military awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as various campaign and unit awards. Additionally, he was a recipient of the 2016 Penn State Eberly College of Science
Outstanding Alumni Award.
November 9, 2017 Speaker Rear Admiral Ronald E. Boxall 2017-10-29 04:00:00Z 0

October 28, 2017 RCLB Community Service Road Clean Up Project

                                                                                          
Rotary Club of Leesburg Community Service
Just a routine Saturday morning for several Rotary Club of Leesburg Members and Heritage High School Interact Students participating in our community service road clean up project along Sycolin Rd. In addition to 4 Interact students, club members in attendance were were Janice Fristad, Chris Fristad, Phil Rusciolelli , Tom Horne,  Monika Irchenhauser , Ron Rogos and our fearless leader by Steve Krisa.
October 28, 2017 RCLB Community Service Road Clean Up Project 2017-10-29 04:00:00Z 0

October 26, 2017 Speaker Meredith Hovan

 

Our speaker October 26, 2017 is Meredith Hovan, Director of Resource Development for Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (PRS).  In her role, she ensures the successful, efficient operation and support of all development, fundraising, marketing and volunteer activities throughout the organization.  PRS is a 54-year-old nonprofit that provides mental health, crisis intervention and suicide prevention services throughout northern Virginia and Washington DC.  PRS serves over 1,000 clients a year and responds to over 30,000 phone calls and 35,000 text messages through their 24/7 crisis and suicide prevention hotline and textline.
October 26, 2017 Speaker Meredith Hovan 2017-10-17 04:00:00Z 0

October 12, 2017 Speaker_Eric Williams_Superintendent Loudoun County Schools

 
Our October 12, 2017 speaker, Eric Williams has served as Superintendent of Loudoun County Public Schools, a school district of 90 schools serving approximately 81,600 students in northern Virginia since July 2014. Williams believes in engaging students in solving authentic problems as a means to developing as knowledgeable critical thinkers, communicators, collaborators, creators, and contributors. He promotes the joy of teaching and learning in lieu of a test-prep mentality. 
Williams served previously as superintendent in York County, Virginia and as an assistant superintendent and principal in Naples, Florida. He has also worked as a teacher and administrator in Massachusetts and Brazil.
October 12, 2017 Speaker_Eric Williams_Superintendent Loudoun County Schools 2017-10-03 04:00:00Z 0

No Meeting at River Creek October 5,2017

We will not have a club meeting this week, October 5, 2017 at River Creek Country Club.
Instead, join us for the Hunt Country Party on October 7, 2017.
Contact Valerie Beaudoin 571-246-7092.
No Meeting at River Creek October 5,2017 2017-10-02 04:00:00Z 0

Welcome New Members

Welcome new member Lynde Scheffer, transfered from the Ashburn Rotary Club. Classification-International Youth Exchange.
 
Welcome new member Maryse Wsrer-Pratte (2nd from left), classification; community volunteer, sponsored by Stanley Calukins and Rob Guerra (4th from left), classification; Federal Contracting Consultant, sponsored by Ron Rogos.
Welcome New Members 2017-10-02 04:00:00Z 0

September 28, 2017 meeting at Boulder Crest Retreat

Our meeting this week, September 28, 2017, will be held at Boulder Crest Retreat.
18370 Bluemont Village Ln
Bluemont, VA 20135
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Join us for a Lobster Fest to celebrate Stanley Caulkins birthday.
Contact Valerie Beaudoin for more info at 571-246-709
September 28, 2017 meeting at Boulder Crest Retreat 2017-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

RCLB Serves those who Served at Boulder Crest Retreat

 

On September 23, 2017 RCLB volunteers Daniel HamptonValerie BeaudoinErnie CarnevaleAriel Welt, John Whister and wife Mary Lou, Howard Moody, Raj Batra, Greg Masucci and Katie Gould Mann prepared and served dinner at Boulder Crest Retreat for Military & Veteran Wellness, a Loudoun County privately funded rural wellness center dedicated exclusively to our nation's combat veterans and their families. This is an amazing organization of which we are honored to assist - healing heroes one family at a time.
 
RCLB Serves those who Served at Boulder Crest Retreat 2017-09-23 04:00:00Z 0
October 7, 2017 Hunt Country Party 2017-09-12 04:00:00Z 0

September 7, 2017 Speaker Sandra Ranke

When our speaker, Sandra Ranke, first visited Hunt Country, Virginia, she recognized it as the most perfect horse country she had ever seen. After visiting for many years from New York City, where she was a Creative Director for White House Black Market and Ann Taylor Loft, she chose the Middleburg area as the place to build her dream horse farm. An avid equestrian, Sandra competes in both eventing and dressage with her four horses, and since living in Hunt Country, has added fox hunting and polo to her horse endeavors. Prior to the East Coast, Sandra lived in San Francisco working for Esprite de Corp and having her own business, Ranke Creative, working for clients such as Banana Republic, Sundance, and Nordstrom’s. While continuing her freelance work, Sandra is owner/editor of The Scout Guide Hunt Country, a publication that promotes local businesses and artisans.
September 7, 2017 Speaker Sandra Ranke 2017-09-05 04:00:00Z 0

Aug 31, 2017 Speaker John Chapin; Academy of Engineering and Technology

 
On Aug 31, our speaker John Chapin will share his experience teaching at the Academy of Engineering and Technology in Leesburg, VA. For the last three years John has been teaching Math and Computer Science in Loudoun County Public Schools.  Prior to this he founded and was president of Peaks Real Estate, a multi-family real estate investment and management firm headquartered in Leesburg, Va. He co-founded LifeMinders in August 1996 and served as Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice President, Board of Directors Member, and Secretary to the Board. LifeMinders went public in 1999. Previously, John was owner of the Enquire Gazette weekly newspaper in Upper Marlboro, MD and a systems engineer for EDS.
John is an active volunteer and has served for the last 10 years on the Board of Governors of Wesley Seminary and for 11 years on the Board of Advisors for the Loudoun County Salvation Army.  John helped to start the Salvation Army feeding program that has serves approximately 8,000 meals a year. He has served on the Loudoun County Advisory Board on Youth.  John was the first director of the Wesley Ministry Network helping to create education programs for lay persons. He is currently treasurer of SamaritanAmericans.org an 501c3 that is helping to end the cycle of poverty in India
Aug 31, 2017 Speaker John Chapin; Academy of Engineering and Technology 2017-08-25 04:00:00Z 0

Aug 24, 2017 Speakers: Claire and Mike Fedele, Co-Directors of SHADE

 

Join us on Aug 24th to hear our speakers Claire and Mike Fedele, Co-Directors of SHADE, from Shinyanga, Tanzania. SHADE is an IRS approved 501(c) (3) organization bringing hope and life to people with albinism. SHADE operates within a government center in Buhangija where children are brought for protection and receive educational and health care services. SHADE collaborates with local and US organizations to send older children to primary schools or vocational training.
The SHADE Transitional Program (STP) provides housing, food, water, and education for basic life skills. Tutors teach students reading, writing, and mathematics while vocational trainers teach trade skills in Batiki and soap-making. SHADE offers people with albinism a nurturing environment, personal development, and skill building so that they are able to start a business of their own and live life independently.
Aug 24, 2017 Speakers: Claire and Mike Fedele, Co-Directors of SHADE 2017-08-22 04:00:00Z 0

Aug 10, 2017 Speaker Stefanie Gans

Stefanie Gans is the dining editor and restaurant critic at Northern Virginia Magazine, covering all aspects of food, drink and the dining scene. Before joining the staff in 2011, Stefanie worked at a political polling firm and for a non-profit promoting progressive workplace practices. Previously, Stefanie has been published in The Washington Post, Washington City Paper, The Washington Post Express, The Onion and Eater and is a founding editor of Endless Simmer. Originally from South Jersey, Stefanie has lived in the D.C. area for almost two decades and will not leave the house without her nails painted. She lives with her husband and 2 year-old daughter in Del Ray.
Aug 10, 2017 Speaker Stefanie Gans 2017-08-04 04:00:00Z 0

Stanley Caulkins rides

 
On July 16, long standing club member Stanley Caulkins was accompanied by 20+ of his motorcycle-riding friends
for a 70 mile drive on Loudoun’s backroads to check an item off of his “bucket list”. He rode in an Ural side car attached to a chopper driven by Steve Ortiz.
Stanley Caulkins rides 2017-07-20 04:00:00Z 0

Christmas in July Donation to Loudoun Hunger Relief

 
Club President, Fred Williams, presented $4,000 to Loudoun Hunger Relief Executive Director, Jennifer Montgomery on July 14, 2017. The RCLB Christmas in July donation supports the organization’s summer services.
Christmas in July Donation to Loudoun Hunger Relief 2017-07-20 04:00:00Z 0

July 20, 2017 Speaker: Jan Neuharth

 

The RCLB welcomes our July 20, 2017 speaker, Jan Neuharth, an attorney, award-winning author, and avid equestrian. Jan practiced law in Los Angeles before her love of horses drew her to the Virginia hunt country. In 1985, she traded her suit and briefcase for boots and breeches and she and Swiss-born husband, Joseph Keusch, established Paper Chase Farms in Middleburg.
 
Neuharth’s experiences in law and the hunt-country lifestyle are what spurred her to write her first novel, The Hunt, which was released in 2003. While she is quick to point out that her Hunt Country Suspense novels are pure fiction, Neuharth writes with an insider’s perspective, gathering inspiration from everyday life in the historic hunt country for the setting, plots, and characters in her books. 
 
Neuharth is Chair and CEO of The Freedom Forum, a nonpartisan foundation based in Washington, DC that champions the First Amendment as a cornerstone of democracy. She also serves on the boards of several non-profit, corporate, and community organizations.
July 20, 2017 Speaker: Jan Neuharth 2017-07-06 04:00:00Z 0

Passing of the gavel

 
RCLB traditional passing of the gavel as we recognize our out-going Club President Dan Hampton for his successful year and welcome our in-coming Club President Fred Williams.
Passing of the gavel 2017-07-05 04:00:00Z 0
No Meeting July 6, 2017 2017-07-05 04:00:00Z 0

July 13, 2017 speaker, Michelle Sullivan

The RCLB welcomes our July 13, 2017 speaker, Michelle Sullivan, currently the Executive Director of All Ages Read Together (AART), a non-profit dedicated to educating children in need with free preschool programs in their communities in Loudoun and Fairfax counties in Virginia.  Last year, AART had more than 100 children enrolled in 12 programs, including an expansion of two new programs in Alexandria, Va.  AART will celebrate its 10th Anniversary this fall.
 
Michelle's previous experience included Executive Director for Access Hope as well as director in the department of public policy at the United Cerebral Palsy’s national office.  She also served in the Office of Public Liaison in the White House.
Michelle is a graduate of Syracuse University College of Law where she was among the first class of students to operate the first Children’s Rights Clinic in an American law school.
July 13, 2017 speaker, Michelle Sullivan 2017-06-29 04:00:00Z 0

July 27, 2017 speaker, Jocelyn Pratt

 
The RCLB welcomes our July 27, 2017 speaker, Jocelyn Pratt, Operations Manager for Blue Ridge Veterinary Blood Bank.
 
Jocelyn has been in the customer service field for 19 years, 12 of which are in the veterinary field. She accepted the position of Operations director of BRVBB in 2012. Her biggest passion in this field is education. Educating the local community and nationwide on the importance of canine blood donation. Jocelyn and her staff of 4, along with a dozen other support staff at the Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates in Purcellville, Va., pride themselves on being the largest all canine-volunteer blood bank in the country. The estimated 400 donor dogs in the program are the amazing life saving volunteers!
July 27, 2017 speaker, Jocelyn Pratt 2017-06-29 04:00:00Z 0

New Member Inductions

                                                                      
 
The RCLB welcomes The Honorable Jeanette A. Irby. Jeanette was a practicing attorney for almost 28 years before taking the bench as a Loudoun County Circuit Court Judge on December 1, 2015. In her free time, Jeanette enjoys studying genealogy and ballroom dancing. She is actively involved in the Daughters of the American Revolution and presently serves as an Honorary Regent for the Fauquier Court House Chapter as well as a District VI Officer. Previously, Jeanette was a member of the Warrenton Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. However, she left her previous club when her job relocated her to Leesburg in 2007.
 
The RCLB welcomes Greg Masucci. In 2014 the family decided to move from Washington, D.C. to Bluemont in an attempt to create a simpler, safer, and happier home for their children. In 2016, Greg and his wife, Maya Wechsler, co-founded the non-profit charity farm, A Farm Less Ordinary,  to provide employment and a welcoming community to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The 501(c)3 produces vegetables grown using organic and sustainable methods and provides employment and a welcoming community to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Greg and Maya have two children - Max and Delilah.  
 
New Member Inductions 2017-06-23 04:00:00Z 0

Congratulations Sticky Wicket Beneficiaries

                    
 
Congratulations to the notable beneficiaries of the  2017 RCLB Annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Garden Party. Due to the successful event fundraising, the club was able to contribute to these two well deserving Loudoun County organizations.
 
A Farm Less Ordinary, in Bluemont, VA, provides employment and a welcoming community to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, while sustainably growing organic food for the metropolitan DC area.
 
BackPack Buddies Foundation of Loudon-Making sure students in Loudoun County get the nutritious food they need. Because hunger doesn’t take the weekend off.
 
Congratulations! And keep up the good work you do in our community.
Photo’s Courtesy of Valerie Beaudoin.
Congratulations Sticky Wicket Beneficiaries 2017-06-23 04:00:00Z 0

Sailing to Europe

Join us as we welcome our speaker Robert Patton, a Graduate from Loudoun County High School, the University of the South (Sewanee), George Mason Law School and a past member of the Virginia Bar.
Robert will share his adventure of sailing across the Atlantic to Gibraltar with his 2 youngest sons in his 40 ft. sail boat.   
Sailing to Europe 2017-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

No meeting at River Creek June 8, 2017

We will not be meeting at River Creek Thursday June 8, 2017.  
Many will be attending our off site special meeting at Roots (contact Pam Banks) and some will be going to the Nats/O's make up game.
 
We will be back at River Creek on Thursday June 15, 2017.
No meeting at River Creek June 8, 2017 2017-06-02 04:00:00Z 0
RCLB celebrates its 90th year  2017-06-02 04:00:00Z 0
2017 Sticky Wicket Croquet & Garden Party (Photo's courtesy of Ron Hampton) 2017-06-01 04:00:00Z 0

Norway beats Sweden in the Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament

On May 20th, 2017, the RCLB held its annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party.
 
There were approximately 140 participants, plus 20 Interact members from Heritage High School. A record number of 12 teams united in international themes to compete. Each team was represented with delicious ethnic food from around the world.
 
Through the course of the day, Norway beat  Sweden in the final round!
 
It was again a successful event with live and silent auction items both big and small consisting of a tea set to a trip to Spain. Estimated proceeds raised were approximately $16,500.
 
Beneficiaries of the event fundraising are: BackPack Buddies of Loudoun County, A Farm Less Ordinary of Bluemont and the Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation.
 
Special thanks to Jim Gable and Kelly for use of their beautiful property for the event.
 
Photos courtesy of Tom Paese
 
 
 
Norway beats Sweden in the Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament 2017-05-24 04:00:00Z 0
RCLB 90th Birthday! May 25th, 2017 2017-05-12 04:00:00Z 0
May 11th Baseball Game_No meeting at River Creek 2017-05-08 04:00:00Z 0

Premiere Film of Stanley Caulkins

 
Thursday, March 30th, the RCLB will host the world premiere of the film of our fellow Rotarian and WWII veteran, Stanley Caulkins. The RCLB partnered with Thomas Balch Library and other community members to record the story. Several club members were instrumental in making this project happen and two had the privilege of interviewing Stanley in the film. The board also financially supported the Thomas Balch Library in this oral history project.
Join us on this special evening to view the final product.
Premiere Film of Stanley Caulkins 2017-03-28 04:00:00Z 0

March 23, 2017 Speaker Beau Backus

 

Our speaker March 23, 2017, Beau Backus, is currently technical manager for the Spectrum Management Center of Expertise for Aerospace and the expert lead in spectrum management for NOAA/NESDIS. He recently appeared as a guest on “The Space Show” discussing global issues on satellite spectrum management and was a guest at the American Meteorology Society summer session discussing the protection of meteorological satellite spectrum from commercial interference. 
March 23, 2017 Speaker Beau Backus 2017-03-19 04:00:00Z 0

Newly Appointed PHF Awards

 

Chuck Reavis receives PHF plus 4. Presented by Foundation Chair Chris Mallin.
Bill Blessing receives PHF plus 3 award. Presented by Foundation Chair Chris Mallin.
 
 
Newly Appointed PHF Awards 2017-03-08 05:00:00Z 0

March 9th, 2017 Speaker Keith Meurlin

 

KEITH MEURLIN: President, Washington Airports Task Force since 2014.  Mr. Meurlin retired in 2005 after 28 years with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, serving as Vice President and Airport Manager of Washington Dulles International Airport in Dulles, VA for over 16 years.  Prior to being appointed as Airport Manager, he served as Director of Operations as well as Director of Engineering and Maintenance from 1977 to 1989.  Mr. Meurlin also served in the United States Air Force, retiring in 2009 in the grade of Major General.  He served on Active Duty, National Guard, Reserves and following his retirement from the Airport returned to Active Duty. He flew the KC-135, C-7 and C-130, Commanded five Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons and a Logistics Group, acting Vice Commander of Air Force Material Command and concluded his career establishing for the Secretary of Defense, the office of Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy. He is the Owner and President of The Meurlin Group providing aviation related consulting services.  Mr. Meurlin serves as a Director on the Board of Middleburg Financial Corporation, Middleburg, VA, and on the Board of the Dulles South Alliance.  He also is a member of the Loudoun County Economic Development Commission, serving on their Executive Committee and on the Loudoun Chamber CEO Cabinet.   He has served on the Board of Directors of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce, Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Committee for Dulles, Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association, United Way Loudoun County, United Way of the National Capital Area, and Chairman of the Heart Association of Northern Virginia.  Mr. Meurlin holds a BA degree from the University of Vermont, and a MS in Systems Management from the University of Southern California.  He also is a graduate of the FAA Executive School and the Air War College. 
March 9th, 2017 Speaker Keith Meurlin 2017-03-08 05:00:00Z 0

March 16, 2017 Speaker Stephen Budiansky

 

Writer and historian Stephen Budiansky is the author of Battle of Wits: The Complete Story of Codebreaking in World War II, Her Majesty’s SpymasterBlackett’s War, and numerous other books of military and intelligence history, science, and biography.

The former foreign editor and deputy editor of U.S. News & World Report, and former Washington editor of the scientific journal Nature, he is a regular contributor to the Wall Street Journal’s book review pages.

He received his master’s degree in applied mathematics from Harvard and in 2011 was a recipient of a John Simon Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship as a writer of general non-fiction.

He will be speaking to us on March 9 about his latest book, Code Warriors: NSA’s Codebreakers and the Secret Intelligence War Against the Soviet Union (Knopf), a comprehensive history of NSA in the Cold War that draws on an array of recently declassified documents to explore the technical and political challenges of the long intelligence struggle against the Soviets, and to trace the historical forces behind the headlines surrounding NSA’s recent controversies.

March 16, 2017 Speaker Stephen Budiansky 2017-03-06 05:00:00Z 0

March 2, 2017 Speaker Greg Brown

 

Gregory Brown became the Town of Leesburg’s fifth Chief of Police at a swearing in ceremony on Sept. 29. Brown replaced club member Joseph Price, who retired in March. Formerly a captain with the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, Brown was most recently commander of the Eastern Loudoun Station. He previously supervised patrol operations, criminal investigations and undercover operations in vice, narcotic and gangs with the Sheriff’s Office. In addition, he has served as the Deputy Director overseeing all Basic Law Enforcement Training at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy.
March 2, 2017 Speaker Greg Brown 2017-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

March 9, 2017 Speaker Keith Meurlin

 

KEITH MEURLIN: President, Washington Airports Task Force since 2014.  Mr. Meurlin retired in 2005 after 28 years with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, serving as Vice President and Airport Manager of Washington Dulles International Airport in Dulles, VA for over 16 years.  Prior to being appointed as Airport Manager, he served as Director of Operations as well as Director of Engineering and Maintenance from 1977 to 1989.  Mr. Meurlin also served in the United States Air Force, retiring in 2009 in the grade of Major General.  He served on Active Duty, National Guard, Reserves and following his retirement from the Airport returned to Active Duty. He flew the KC-135, C-7 and C-130, Commanded five Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons and a Logistics Group, acting Vice Commander of Air Force Material Command and concluded his career establishing for the Secretary of Defense, the office of Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy. He is the Owner and President of The Meurlin Group providing aviation related consulting services.  Mr. Meurlin serves as a Director on the Board of Middleburg Financial Corporation, Middleburg, VA, and on the Board of the Dulles South Alliance.  He also is a member of the Loudoun County Economic Development Commission, serving on their Executive Committee and on the Loudoun Chamber CEO Cabinet.   He has served on the Board of Directors of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce, Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Committee for Dulles, Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association, United Way Loudoun County, United Way of the National Capital Area, and Chairman of the Heart Association of Northern Virginia.  Mr. Meurlin holds a BA degree from the University of Vermont, and a MS in Systems Management from the University of Southern California.  He also is a graduate of the FAA Executive School and the Air War College. 
March 9, 2017 Speaker Keith Meurlin 2017-02-27 05:00:00Z 0
May 20, 2017 Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament & Lawn Party 2017-02-14 05:00:00Z 0

Feb 16, 2017 Speaker Ryan Campbell

Our speaker on February 16, 2017 is Ryan Campbell, a partner with King, Campbell & Poretz, PLLC, a general practice firm located in Alexandria. Ryan practices primarily in criminal defense and represents clients charged with everything from minor offenses such as Assault, DUI, and Drug Possession up to serious offenses such as Robbery and Murder.  He practices in the state courts throughout Northern Virginia, as well as the Eastern District of Virginia Federal District Court.  He’s been recognized by SuperLawyers since 2009 and has also been recognized as a top criminal defense lawyer by Washingtonian Magazine for several years.

Ryan was born and raised in Leesburg.  He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1999 and from the George Washington University Law School in 2002.

Feb 16, 2017 Speaker Ryan Campbell 2017-02-14 05:00:00Z 0

Feb 2, 2017 Speaker; John Connolly

 

Our speaker Feb 2, 2017 is John Connolly, who has served as the George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Librarian at the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) since early 2014. In his role, John is responsible for the care of the Library collections including books, magazines, photographs, diaries, letters, and much more. The NSLM collections span over 350 years of the history of equestrian sport, as well as fly fishing, wing shooting, and other field sports. John has over 10 years of experience in libraries, with a focus on technical and digital services. He holds his Master’s degree in Library & Information Studies from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language & Literature from Christendom College in Front Royal, Virginia.
Feb 2, 2017 Speaker; John Connolly 2017-02-01 05:00:00Z 0

January 19, 2017 Speakers: Children's Science Center

Join us on January 19, 2017 at the National Conference Center in Leesburg, VA for an informative meeting to learn more about the Children's Science Center.

 
 
Adalene “Nene” Spivy
Executive Director, Children’s Science Center
 

Jill Corso McNabb
Vice Chair, Children’s Science Center
 
January 19, 2017 Speakers: Children's Science Center 2017-01-17 00:00:00Z 0
January 19, 2017 Meeting Location 2017-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

Join us January 12, 2017: RCLB and Heritage High School Interact Club 

 

The Heritage High School Interact Club Officers will facilitate our club meeting this week. It's a meeting you don't want to miss.
 
Pictured: HHS Interact Club-85 strong
 
How it all started
In 2002, the Rotary Club of Leesburg decided to sponsor an Interact Club at Heritage High School, which opened in August of that same year. The Heritage High School Interact Club was officially chartered in December of 2003 under the leadership of Rotary Club of Leesburg President Jake Jacobson and faculty adviser Scott Ferguson.
Since its founding, the HHS Interact Club has embodied the motto “service above self” by engaging the student body in a variety of local and international service projects.
 
What they do
Today, the club meets once a week and boasts 85 active members, making it the largest service club at Heritage High School. Interact is routinely asked to represent Heritage in the community and cited by the school administration as an example of outstanding student leadership and service.
 
Service above Self
Popular service activities for the Interact Club include participating in Wreaths Across America, donating food for Backpack Buddies and Loudoun Interfaith Relief, and partnering with its feeder schools for service and fundraising events. Interact also partners with the Rotary Club of Leesburg in the annual Halloween parade, the annual Croquet Tournament, rummage sale clean-up, and other events.
 
Pictured: HHS Interact Club Officers at the 2016 Leesburg Halloween Parade.
Join us January 12, 2017: RCLB and Heritage High School Interact Club 2017-01-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians serve those who served at Boulder Crest Retreat January 6, 2017

 

On Friday, January 6, 2017 Rotarians prepared and served dinner to a group of Veterans and their families staying at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, VA. We also said farewell to Lauri Sisney, the Kitchen and Garden Lady at Boulder Crest. Lauri has been instrumental in supporting our community service at Boulder Crest and will be missed. We wish her well in her retirement.
 
A privately-funded rural wellness center, Boulder Crest is dedicated exclusively to our nation’s combat veterans and their families and is committed to improving their physical, emotional, spiritual and economic well being of this remarkable community of heroes ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed in their new mission of life here at home. 
 
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos-left to right: Phil Rusciolelli, John Rust, Katie Mann, Valerie Beaudoin, Ron Rogos, Howard Moody, Ariel Welt and Ernie Carnevale.
 
The food was great-directed by Chef Ernie.
Rotarians serve those who served at Boulder Crest Retreat January 6, 2017 2017-01-08 00:00:00Z 0

Wreaths Across America 2016

More than 24,000 volunteers turned out, even in the icy, cold, frosty and rainy weather to carefully lay 245,000 remembrance wreaths at grave sites at Arlington National Cemetery. The Wreaths Across America ceremony took place for the 25th year Saturday December 17, 2016. The theme for this year’s event was #SayTheirNames.
 
The convoy of volunteers brings several hundred truckloads of wreaths from Maine to Arlington leaving behind a sea of wreaths with red ribbons on the headstones at Arlington National Cemetery.
 
The wreaths are placed at grave sites nationwide to honor and remember fallen veterans and their service. After placing a wreath, volunteers are encouraged to take time to read the headstone, to honor the memory of that fallen hero and to say the veteran’s name out loud.
 
The Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Leesburg who participated were club president Dan Hampton, Chuck Reavis, Hugh Forsythe, Tom Horne, Howard Moody and Bill Blessing.  Guests from the club included Dan Hamptons family Ron Hampton (father), Janet Hampton (mother), Corie Hampton (sister) and Chris McAlister (Air Force Reserves).
 

Photo’s courtesy of Ron Hampton.

Wreaths are all brought in by volunteers by convoy from Maine.
L to R: Chris McAlister, Bill Blessing, Howard Moody, Dan Hampton, Hugh Forsythe and Tom Horne.
L to R: Corie Hampton, Janet Hampton, Ron Hampton.
 
Placing the wreaths to honor the fallen, read the headstone and say the Veteran's name out loud.
 
A sea of wreaths and red ribbons.
 
A sea of wreaths and red ribbons.
Wreaths Across America 2016 2016-12-29 00:00:00Z 0
No Meeting December 29, 2016 2016-12-23 00:00:00Z 0
No Meeting December 22, 2016 2016-12-17 00:00:00Z 0
West Point Alumni Glee Club January 26, 2017 2016-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

Wreaths Across America December 17, 2016

 

On Saturday December 17th the Rotary Club of Leesburg will be participating in Wreaths Across America.  Like we did last year, the Club will be providing 3 buses. The buses are going to be filled on a first come, first serve basis and are limited to a total of 50 passengers.  Each seat will cost $10 per person regardless of whether you are a Club Member or Guest.

The buses will be leaving at 6:30 am sharp on December 17 from Heritage High School in Leesburg and will be returning around Noon. Please be at Heritage no later than 6:15 am.  This will get us to the Cemetery early and ahead of the start to get set up.  Coffee and Donuts will be provided for the bus ride. You are more than welcome to meet us at the Cemetery if you would prefer to drive yourself, we should be there around 8:00 am and we will provide details of where our trailer will be.

We will be responsible for unloading/distributing wreaths from two of the tractor trailers. Volunteers are needed to help unload the boxes and pass out the wreaths.

Also, as in past years, our Interact Club from Heritage High School will be joining us.  

If you would like to support Wreaths Across America you can make a donation to them through their website http://www.waastore.com/ 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to Dan Hampton dlhampton@hotmail.com

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos.

Wreaths Across America December 17, 2016 2016-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

Paul Harris Awards to Rotary Club of Leesburg members

 

Bill Blessing joins the Paul Harris Society.
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos: left to right Past Club Foundation Chair Matt Burns, DG Janet Brown, Bill Blessing and PDG Sandy Duckworth.
Valerie Beaudoin is awarded PHF # 5. Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos: left to right President Dan Hampton, Valerie Beaudoin.
Jake Jacobson joins the Paul Harris Society and awards a Paul Harris Fellow to his daughter Gretchen. Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos: left to right PDG Rich Storey, PDG Sandy Duckworth, Jake Jacobson and his daughter Gretchen.
Paul Harris Awards to Rotary Club of Leesburg members 2016-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg received District Awards

 

Past President Chuck Reavis and Past President Dee Jonas receive District awards for Interact and Public Image. Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos: left to right Chuck Reavis, PDG Rich Storey, President Dan Hampton, Past President Dee Jonas, and PDG Sandy Duckworth.
Rotary Club of Leesburg received District Awards 2016-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

March 23, 2017 speaker Beau Backus

 

Join us on March 23rd. Our speaker, Mr. Beau Backus, is the technical lead for Aerospace in the newly formed National Spectrum Consortium.  He recently appeared as a guest on “The Space Show” discussing global issues on satellite spectrum management and was a guest at the American Meteorology Society summer session discussing the protection of meteorological satellite spectrum from commercial interference.
March 23, 2017 speaker Beau Backus 2016-12-12 05:00:00Z 0

It's beginning to look like Christmas with our Rotary tree in Leesburg

 
Rotarians Chuck Reavis, Howard Moody, Ron Rogos, Phil Daley, Tom Gates and Hugh Forsythe (bottom photograph left to right)
picked up the Rotary tree on December 10, 2016 from Rosalie and Lewis Leigh who once again, graciously, allowed us to cut one from their property. We will be putting the tree up and decorating it in front of Jeff Mitchell’s office on Monday, Dec 12th-around 10:00 am. We could use help both days. Any Rotarian who would like to help should contact Phil Daley PEDALEY@verizon.net or Ron Rogos rcrogos@verizon.net for details.
 
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos.
 
 
It's beginning to look like Christmas with our Rotary tree in Leesburg 2016-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

January 5, 2017 Speaker: Danielle Nadler_Managing Editor at Loudoun Now

 

Our speaker January 5, 2017 is Danielle Nadler who grew up in South Dakota and, as soon as she had a journalism degree in hand, moved west in search of more exciting headlines and warmer weather. Her reporting has garnered first-place press association awards in California, Nevada and Virginia. She worked for Leesburg Today for four years as education reporter and later as deputy editor before joining the effort to launch Loudoun Now. She and her husband feel fortunate to both live and work in downtown Leesburg.

January 5, 2017 Speaker: Danielle Nadler_Managing Editor at Loudoun Now 2016-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Annual Christmas Party December 15, 2016

 
 
This year, the Rotary Club of Leesburg’s Christmas Party will be held on Thursday December 15 at River Creek Country Club. The festivities will begin with a social time starting at 6:00pm.
 
On this black tie optional evening, we will be treated to a wonderful salmon dinner.  We will be rocking the Club with Christmas carols so get your singing voices ready. It will all be in good fun and in good spirits of the holidays.
 
In addition, we will be joined by the Heritage High School Guitar Class who will play for us at the end of the evening.
 
Please contact Dan Hampton dlhampton@hotmail.com  by December 13th to let him know if you are bringing a guest so we have an accurate head count.
 
 
Rotary Club of Leesburg Annual Christmas Party December 15, 2016 2016-12-09 00:00:00Z 0

Veterans Day Program November 17, 2016

 
Our special guest and speaker on November 17, 2016 for our Veterans Day program: Eli Linden, WWII Army Veteran pictured with Air Guard Veteran Don Hollis, Eli’s wife, and club member Phil Rusciolelli.
 
Eli shared his compelling story from serving in England across the North Atlantic as part of a 100+ freighter convoy, to Omaha Beach, to being captured in Germany.
Liberated in May 1945 by the Russian Cossacks, he walked about five miles and crossed the Elbe River back to the American lines. 
 
He now spends a lot of his time sharing his war experiences with middle school students as part of the World War II history curriculum in Loudoun County, Virginia.  He also happily greets other veterans who fly in to Dulles Airport on the Honor Flight Network to visit the World War II Memorial.
 
Photo Courtesy of Ron Rogos.
Veterans Day Program November 17, 2016 2016-12-07 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg serves those who served at Boulder Crest Retreat

 
On October 22, 2016, another great dinner was prepared by Rotarians and their guests for Boulder Crest Retreat.
 
Settled in the beautiful rural setting of Bluemont, VA, Boulder Crest Retreat is the nation's first privately-funded rural wellness center dedicated exclusively to combat veterans and their families. On a recurring basis, the Rotary Club of Leesburg prepares the meal, serves, visits and cleans up.
 
Our next service date at the Retreat is January 6th, 2017.
 
Pictured here is Mary Lou Whisler, Cherie John Whisler, Steve Krisa, Chuck Reavis, Ernie Carnevalle, Ron Rogos, Valerie Beaudoin, Peter Llanos, Rachel Llanos, Peter Llanos.
 
Photo Courtesy of Ron Rogos.
Rotary Club of Leesburg serves those who served at Boulder Crest Retreat 2016-12-07 00:00:00Z 0

20th Annual REHAU Resolution Race January 1, 2017

 
 
Come out to to join us for our 20th annual REHAU Rotary Resolution Race in Leesburg, VA on JANUARY 1, 2017.
 
Enjoy the scenic course through the beautiful rolling hills of the historic 1000+ acre Morven Park Estate. ChronoTrack B-Tag timing by Amazing Race Timing. All proceeds go to local charities. Over $320,000 has been raised for local charities since 1998.
 
Stay warm pre & post Race in the Ida Lee Recreation Center gym.
Indoor restrooms, changing rooms and coin-operated lockers. Post Race New Years Day Celebration featuring live music, great food and drinks, awards and lots of random prizes.
 
Sign up today at REHAU Resolution Race
20th Annual REHAU Resolution Race January 1, 2017 2016-12-04 00:00:00Z 0

August 18th Speaker Chuck Bean

 
On August 18th, the club welcomes Chuck Bean, an executive and civic leader with more than 25 years of experience in government, nonprofits, and philanthropy. Bean is Executive Director of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG), one of the country’s prominent regional councils, where he leads a staff of 130 people. COG is an independent, nonprofit association that brings area leaders together to address major regional issues, including economic development, land-use, human services, public safety, and environmental and transportation planning. Its membership is comprised of 300 elected officials from 22 local governments, the Maryland and Virginia state legislatures, and U.S. Congress. 
August 18th Speaker Chuck Bean 2016-08-16 00:00:00Z 0

August 11 Speaker: Lawrence Stipek and Kristin Brown

Our speakers for August 11 will be Mr. Lawrence Stipek and Ms. Kristin Brown. Mr. Stipek is the Director of the Office of Mapping and Geographic Information for Loudoun County and Ms. Brown is the Division Manager for the Office of Mapping and Geographic Information for the County of Loudoun. They will discuss a unique project of the Loudoun Museum dealing with "Story Map" technology. Story Maps is an application that lets you combine authoritative maps with narrative text, images, and multimedia content that make it easy to harness the power of maps and geography to tell a story that engages and inspires the audience. The story map they will discuss is the seven letters in the collection of the museum collectively known as the Lucas-Heaton letters. The letters were written in the 1830's between two previously enslaved brothers in Liberia and two brothers in Purcellville, Virginia who freed them.
August 11 Speaker: Lawrence Stipek and Kristin Brown 2016-08-09 00:00:00Z 0

Stickey Wicket Croquet Beneficiaries

 
Hillsboro Charter Academy Board Chair, Rebecca Fuller, and new HCA Principal Trisha Ybarra Peters receive donation from Rotary Club of Leesburg from the Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament.
Mobile Hope of Leesburg Director Donna Fortier and Bonnie Inman receive donation from Rotary Club of Leesburg from the Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament.
Stickey Wicket Croquet Beneficiaries 2016-08-03 00:00:00Z 0

Welcome New Member

Rotarian Tom Horne inducts new member Rajeev (Raj) Batra, a former member of the Rotary Club of Dulles, is the owner of Batra, LLC, Certified Public Accountants in Ashburn, VA, where he lives with his wife, Neeru. He focuses his practice on offering tax, accounting, and consulting services with a special interest in helping small and medium-sized businesses. In his spare time, Raj enjoys reading, traveling, and watching sports. He lives by the motto "Carpe Diem!" and looks forward to sharing his enthusiasm for life and Rotary with the Rotary Club of Leesburg. 

Welcome New Member 2016-08-03 00:00:00Z 0

NO MEETING AUGUST 4, 2016

 
Instead of our regular club meeting, we hope you will join us for the Garden Party on August 6, 2016.
NO MEETING AUGUST 4, 2016 2016-08-03 00:00:00Z 0

Cowboy Monkey Rodeo at the Frederick Keys

As soon as speaker Geoff Arnold, Broadcasting and Public Relations Manager, Frederick Keys, told the club about the Cowboy Monkey Rodeo last year, Ernie started signing people up for a unique night at the ballpark.  Here are a few pictures of the fun night on July 23, 2016, where Rotarians were monkeying around, too. Please notice that the Rotary Club of Leesburg made the electronic billboard. The other photos speak for themselves. Thanks for the pictures, Ron!
 
Cowboy Monkey, Dog and Goats!
 
  
Cowboy Monkey Rodeo at the Frederick Keys 2016-07-27 00:00:00Z 0

July 21st speaker: Former Historic Records Manager of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County

John Fishback and his wife Mary will speak to the Club July 21st on the topic of the history of Loudoun within the rubric of "Tippecanoe and Tyler too [sounds a little political]". John is the former Historic Records Manager of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County. He is known as one of the preeminent historians in Loudoun County, a true scholar, and continues his research in retirement. Mary is the author of several books on the life and history of the County and is employed at the Balch Library.
July 21st speaker: Former Historic Records Manager of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County 2016-07-19 00:00:00Z 0

Look What Our Wandering Rotarian Discovered

One of our wandering Rotarians discovered this pub and restaurant named The Sticky Wicket during recent travels to Canada. This place shares the name of our annual croquet tournament fundraiser and social event. Maybe they'll sign up as a sponsor?!
 
Look What Our Wandering Rotarian Discovered 2016-07-11 00:00:00Z 0

Leesburg Town Manager Speaks at Rotary

All Things Leesburg

Leesburg Town Manager Kaj Dentler is the July 14th speaker on the current club program theme of local, state, and national government. He is highly qualified to provide insight about the past, present, and future of Leesburg. Since October 4, 2014, he has been serving as the Town's Chief Executive Officer, supervising all Town functions including public safety, utilities, public works, capital improvement projects, airport operations, planning & land development, parks & recreation, library, and all internal support functions.
 
Mr. Dentler has been employed by the Town since June 1996, starting as the Parks and Recreation Director. He is a member of the International City Managers Association and the Virginia Local Government Management Association.  During his tenure as Leesburg’s Director of Parks and Recreation, the Town won the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence (2005). He has lived in Leesburg with his wife, Debbie, since 1998. They have three children and one grandchild. Photo courtesy of www.leesburgva.gov
Leesburg Town Manager Speaks at Rotary 2016-07-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians serving those who serve

Posted on Jul 10, 2016
On Saturday, July 9th, 2016 Rotarians prepared and served dinner to a group of Veterans and their families staying at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, VA.
 
A privately-funded rural wellness center, Boulder Crest is dedicated exclusively to our nation’s combat veterans and their families and is committed to improving their physical, emotional, spiritual and economic well being of this remarkable community of heroes ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed in their new mission of life here at home.
 
Shown in the photo are John Whisler and his wife Mary Lou, Steve Krisa and his wife Cherie, Chuck Reavis, Ernie Carnevale, Ron Rogos, Valerie Beaudoin, and Rachel De Llanos and her husband Peter.  
 
The food was great-directed by Chefs Ernie and Valerie.
 
 
 
Photo Courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotarians serving those who serve 2016-07-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Work with Leesburg Police to Provide Community Service

  
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotarians Jim Gable and Ron Rogos (pictured with officers above) delivered six food baskets to the Leesburg Police headquarters on behalf of the Rotary Club of Leesburg on June 30, 2016. The baskets were distributed to six families selected by local schools to receive the food gifts. Former Rotarian and retired Leesburg Police Chief Joe Price started this effort, which has become a new club tradition.  Thanks to all Rotarians, Leesburg Police, and school officials who helped with this community service.
Rotarians Work with Leesburg Police to Provide Community Service 2016-07-08 00:00:00Z 0

Garden Party

Posted on Jul 07, 2016
We hope you will plan to join us for a Garden Party August 6, 2016 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm to support the Rotary Club of Leesburg Scholarship Fund. The Scholarship Fund allows us to award a college scholarship to two students each year. It's a great cause.
 
 
 
Garden Party 2016-07-08 00:00:00Z 0

Art of the Political Cartoon

 
 
On July 7, 2016, the Rotary Club of Leesburg welcomed Stilson Greene who talked about the "Art of the Political Cartoon". This rare opportunity to hear from a real Loudoun County institution was entertaining and informative. 
 
Mr. Greene started his graphic design/illustration studio in Historic Leesburg in 1980. He is a founding member of the Loudoun Art Academy where he taught drawing and Studio Art. He has been an instructor at the Northern Virginia Community College and has been an award winning editorial cartoonist for the Loudoun Times Mirror, Leesburg Today, and Loudoun Now. He is the creator of Acoustic on the Green and the Jingle Jam Christmas concert for charity. He received the 2015 George Marshall Award for exemplary commitment to the community. 
Photo courtesy of Jewell Emswiller.
Art of the Political Cartoon 2016-07-06 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Host 16th Annual Law Camp Picnic

Posted on Jun 21, 2016
Rotarian grillmeisters and servers provided a picnic dinner for 42 people at the 16th Annual Thomas Horne Leadership in the Law Camp. The attendees included 24 students from high schools across the region who competed to attend this highly-regarded camp. The camp was named after one of our own Rotarians and former Loudoun County Circuit Court Judge Tom Horne who had a vision for a community outreach program related to law. The camp gives rising seniors a glimpse of the judicial system.
 
Since its inception, The Rotary Club of Leesburg has supported the annual Law Camp with a picnic. This year, sixteen Rotarians participating in the event included Tony Aiken, Pam Banks, Valerie Beaudoin, Chris Fristad. Janice Fristad. Rachel G. de Llanos, Tom Horne, Rich Jollon, Carole Maloney, Chuck Maloney, Bob Noe, Chuck Reavis, Ron Rogos, Phil Rusciolelli, Judy Smith and Jaro Vitazka.  Photo collage contributed by Rotarians Ron Rogos and Janice Fristad.
 
 
Rotarians Host 16th Annual Law Camp Picnic 2016-06-22 00:00:00Z 0

June 30th Meeting at Gable Farm in Hamilton, VA

Please note that the Rotary Club of Leesburg will not be meeting at our usual River Creek Country Club location on Thursday, June 30, 2016.  A club picnic will be held at Gable's Farm in Hamilton, VA. 
June 30th Meeting at Gable Farm in Hamilton, VA 2016-06-16 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Celebrates Four Outstanding Students

The Rotary Club of Leesburg celebrated and supported youth in a big way in May and June.
 
Pamela Amaniapong and Liesl Mattar competed with dozens of other Leesburg area high school seniors to become winners of the two $10,000 Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship awards for 2016.  These two exceptional students were joined by their families and school officials, and were showered with support and congratulations. The winners provided inspirational comments about the award and their college plans. They received heartfelt, standing ovations from the audience at the May 19th Rotary dinner meeting.
 
Pamela graduated from Tuscarora High School and has been an active volunteer with the local hospital, seniors, school events, tutoring and other activities. She exemplifies the quality of courage by overcoming many challenges to excel academically and to work toward her dream of becoming a doctor. She plans to continue giving back to community and family as she pursues her education at one of the several colleges where she was accepted.
 
Liesl graduated from Loudoun County High School and has shown a genuine passion for serving others through organized efforts and many random acts of kindness. She participated in the 2015 Thomas Horne Leadership in the Law Camp, which peaked her interest in the field of law and in Rotary. She plans to attend Christopher Newport University in the Fall.
 
On June 7th and 8th, Rotarian Jewell Emswiller presented each student with her award at the high school seniors’ awards ceremonies.
 
Winners Pamela Amaniapong and Liesl Mattar with Rotary Scholarship President Ernie Carnevale
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation presented Angelique Arintok, with the CS Monroe Technology Center scholarship award. Angelique, a top student at Monroe, plans to pursue media production and communication at George Mason University. She has been involved in numerous volunteer endeavors including Loudoun Cares and its Community Builders program.
 
Monroe Tech Scholarship Winner Angelique Arintok with and her Dad, Angel
 
Harper Park Middle School student Megan Seaman was awarded first place in the Rotary Club of Leesburg Four-Way Test Essay Contest. Her testament to the meaning of service and truth was excellent.  Her essay was so impressive that she competed in the District 7610 contest, where she won third place among participants from across Virginia.
Four-Way Test Winner Megan Seaman (R) with Rotarian Pamela Banks (L)
 
Talented and Fun-loving Rotarians Ernie and Val Leading the Special Evening
 
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotary Club Celebrates Four Outstanding Students 2016-06-10 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians and Family Volunteer at Grace 2 Go

 
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Chopping, baking and packing food for Grace 2 Go has been a Rotary Club of Leesburg favorite service for several years.  Rotarians, family and friends volunteer to prepare, cook and package healthy fresh meals for those who need food in our region.  On Sunday, April 3rd, this motley crew went to the Deli South in Leesburg, and prepared the meals in their commercial kitchen for distribution on Monday.
Rotarians and Family Volunteer at Grace 2 Go 2016-04-19 00:00:00Z 0

Georgetown Professor Donohue Provides Another Great Program

 
On April 14th, Rotary Club members were pleased to welcome back Professor Laura Donohue of Georgetown Law Center and Director of the Center for National Security and the Law. Her informative and engaging talk included information from her most recent book, The Future of Foreign Intelligence: Privacy and Surveillance in a Digital World. She shed light on the role of the executive branch and the issues and history surrounding national security in a digital world among other timely topics.
 
Georgetown Professor Donohue Provides Another Great Program 2016-04-19 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Welcome New Member Bruce Roberts

 Bruce Roberts (center) with Howard Moody (L) and Tony Aiken (R)
President Dee Jonas pins new Rotarian Bruce Roberts, with on-lookers Bob Noe, Sponsor Howard Moody, and Dean Worcester
 
On April 7, 2016, Bruce Roberts was welcomed as a new member of the Rotary Club of Leesburg. Dean Worcester presided over the induction ceremony, a momentous occasion for all who attended. Bruce was sponsored by Rotarian Howard Moody. 
 
Bruce is a long-time resident of Leesburg, where he resides with his wife, Rachel. He is actively engaged in consulting work in the health care industry. He was the owner and founder of four area pharmacies, including the Leesburg Pharmacy, and served in many prestigious roles in pharmacy-related companies and associations in the US and internationally. Club members look forward to engaging Bruce, a business leader and service-minded citizen, in future club work and fellowship.
Rotarians Welcome New Member Bruce Roberts 2016-04-11 00:00:00Z 0

We have a Winner!

President Dee Jonas presents check to Charlie Bowden
 
On March 31, 2016, Rotarian Charlie Bowden drew the lucky "Ten of Diamonds" from a deck of cards and won the 50/50 raffle.
We have a Winner! 2016-04-11 00:00:00Z 0

Spring Wildflower Walk with Phil Daley

Virginia Bluebells
Sunday, April 10, 2016  1:00-3:30 pm
Join Rotarian Phil Daley as he leads a Spring wildflower walk at Balls Bluff in beautiful Loudoun County. Some of the flowers should include Trout Lillies, Wild Ginger, Twin Leaf, Virginia Bluebells, and Shooting Stars.  Rotarians should contact Phil or sign up at our regular meetings.

Limited to 15 participants. If more sign up, Phil will establish a waiting list and consider leading another walk either during a weekday evening or the following weekend. This walk will require up and down hiking, so wear sturdy, preferably water proof shoes. Rotary family members and guests are welcome to join us, and will count towards the fifteen.
Spring Wildflower Walk with Phil Daley 2016-03-28 00:00:00Z 0

Doctor Talk: All about Bones and Joints

 
Club President Dee Jonas and Rotarian Jim Gable, both physicians, conversing at dinner meeting
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg has many talented and experienced members, and we heard from one of them on March 10th. Rotarian Jim Gable, a well-regarded, retired orthopedic surgeon, provided an informative and entertaining chat about the history and current treatment of fractures and related medical matters.  He conducted a "Q&A" with the audience and facilitated a lively discussion on the topic.
Doctor Talk: All about Bones and Joints 2016-03-11 00:00:00Z 0

St. Patrick's Day Party March 17, 2016

 
Members and guests celebrated St. Patrick's Day on March 17th. The Rotary event was filled with fun from "horse races" to trivia contests, original limericks, corned beef and lots of other Irish revelry.
St. Patrick's Day Party March 17, 2016 2016-03-04 00:00:00Z 0

Tom O'Neil Chats about Leesburg Public Art

Image accessed from www.leesburgva.gov
 
The economic, social and personal benefits of public art are widely recognized. Prime examples include the fairs and festivals that bring business to downtown Leesburg, in addition to bringing education and joy to residents and visitors.
 
Rotarian Valerie Beaudoin introduced architect and arts supporter, Tom O'Neil, who shared his stories and excepts from a strategic plan for public art with the club on Thursday, March 3, 2016. Tom is the current chair of the Leesburg Commission on Public Art. During Q&A, members provided suggestions for murals on walls such as the VFW building, and voiced support for ideas he presented to promote and help make Leesburg more attractive. Several members expressed surprise that the Town of Leesburg does not fund any public art.  Members shared examples of towns and cities that benefit from public art murals and other initiatives, including nearby Frederick, MD, Winchester, and Richmond.
Tom O'Neil Chats about Leesburg Public Art 2016-02-29 00:00:00Z 0

9th Annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Party was Big Success

The 9th Annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party was held at the Gable estate in Leesburg, hosted by Jim and Kelly. Approximately 90 people attended on a beautiful June Saturday, and helped make it a big success. Themed tent decor, food, costumes, and music from around the world added liveliness to the croquet matches, auction, and party.  As a family event, kids enjoyed the pool, hot tub and delicious food.
 
Congratulations to winners Team England for beating Team Sparta in the final match. HUGE thanks are owed to Ron, Valerie and Ernie and the entire committee, along with Rotarians, family, friends and Heritage High School Interact Club members who made it another fun and special event. Special thanks to the lifeguards and set-up crew, too. 
 
Proceeds went to Mobile Hope, Hillsboro Charter Academy, and the Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation. Mobile Hope and Hillsboro teams participated in the fundraiser for their non-profit organizations. Checks will be presented to each charity.  This collage of photos shows what a great time everyone had.
                             
9th Annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Party was Big Success 2016-02-10 00:00:00Z 0

Speaker Geoff Arnold, Frederick Radio Broadcaster and PR Manager for the Frederick Keys, the Class A Baltimore Orioles Minor League Team

Geoff Arnold will speak at The Rotary Club of Leesburg on Thursday, February 11, 2016.  Geoff serves as the Frederick Keys radio play-by-play announcer, works as the club’s primary liaison to the media, and assists with Keys marketing initiatives. Prior to joining the Keys, Arnold was the Assistant Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Wilmington Blue Rocks, the Class A Advanced affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and as the Broadcaster and Media Relations Administrator for the Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. A 2010 graduate of Dickinson College, Arnold began his professional career as a minor league baseball umpire in the Gulf Coast League.

 
Speaker Geoff Arnold, Frederick Radio Broadcaster and PR Manager for the Frederick Keys, the Class A Baltimore Orioles Minor League Team 2016-02-10 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Warmly Welcomes Back Steve Chapin

 
Left to right:  Sponsor Jake Jacobson, Dean Worcester, New member Steve Chapin, Julie Chapin
 
       
Wife Julie pins new Rotarian Steve Chapin, as Rotarian Dean Worcester presides
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
Former Rotarian Steve Chapin was warmly welcomed back to the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  On January 21, 2016, Rotarian Dean Worcester presided over the formal induction of Steve, who was sponsored by Rotarian Jake Jacobson.
 
Steve, a successful entrepreneur for the past 20 years, owns JARS Residential Properties with 1,500+ apartments throughout the Southeast. Previously, he founded and took public, LifeMinders, an internet database company sold to Cross Media Marketing.  He was an Associate for McKinsey and Company and served in the Navy from 1985-90, as the Secretary of the Navy’s liaison to the House of Representatives and as a Surface Warfare Officer aboard USS Doyle. He is a distinguished graduate of the US Naval Academy, Harvard Business School, and Georgetown University.  He lives in Leesburg with his wife Julie and has 3 sons. Steve and Julie look forward to getting involved with the many service and fellowship opportunities that Rotary offers.
Rotary Warmly Welcomes Back Steve Chapin 2016-02-10 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Can Cook!

 
Rotarian Dean Worcester cooking breakfast for board of directors meeting.
Service with a smile.
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg has exceptional cooks/chefs/servers, even if it isn't their day jobs.  Putting their talents to good use is part of their commitment to "Service above Self", in addition to being fun.
 
A Rotarian team volunteers carefully plans and prepares breakfast for monthly board meetings at Tony Aiken's home, where he generously offers his gourmet kitchen and dining room.  Rotarians cook for service events and fundraisers throughout the year, too. 
Rotarians Can Cook! 2016-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

Hillsboro Charter Academy Board Pres. Rebecca Fuller's Presents Her Passion for Education

Rebecca Fuller is President of the Board of Directors of Hillsboro Charter Academy.  She became involved in the effort to keep a school open in Hillsboro, Virginia, more than two years ago when she was seeking alternative approaches to education for her son.  Since that time, she has grown deeply connected to the warm and welcoming Hillsboro school community, which is full of dedicated teachers, enthusiastic parents and curious children. Her January 7th Rotary Cub of Leesburg presentation follows the journey to open this school and shows her passion for education.
Hillsboro Charter Academy Board Pres. Rebecca Fuller's Presents Her Passion for Education 2016-01-07 00:00:00Z 0

Talented Katherine Mackey, RI Scholar, Actress, and Business Woman Visits Club

Former Rotary International (RI) Scholar, actress, and successful business woman, Katherine Mackey, will lead an informal discussion about her Rotary experience -- what she learned and how Rotary deeply influenced the woman she is today.  Katherine will be the speaker at the Rotary Club dinner meeting on December 17, 2015.
 
Katherine, a UNC and a Georgetown graduate, was sponsored by the Research Triangle Park, NC, Rotary Club.  Through an unusual and exciting turn of events, she ended up representing RI for 3 years in 3 different countries. Be sure to ask Katherine how she came to live in a Mexico City Opus Dei Nunnery (and why it didn't last for long) and what life was like on an RI health project with the Totonac Indians.

After Katherine's return from Switzerland, Spain, and Mexico, she became an actress in DC and NYC for 14 years, and appeared in TV programs such as Sopranos, West Wing, the Wire, and Law and Order SVU and Criminal Intent; and Films such as Sex in the City, Step Up, and Syriana. Today she is the Founder of Virginia Network, a Veterans advocate and Board Member of General Electric's Veterans Network, and a Financial Planner with Integrated Financial Partners in Fairfax.
Talented Katherine Mackey, RI Scholar, Actress, and Business Woman Visits Club 2015-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

Another Successful "Wreaths Across America" Tribute

Rotarians, their guests, and members of the Heritage High School Interact Club participated in the annual Wreaths Across America to decorate the graves of the fallen and other service members at Arlington National Cemetery on December 12, 2015.
 
The Interact Club had 68 members in attendance!!!  A big pat on the back to Chuck Reavis and Dan Hampton who helped organize the event and once again led our Rotary Club to help this year with two truckloads of wreaths. The event attracted a total of 70,000 volunteers who helped with 240,000 wreaths.  
 
Rotarians attending this year were:
Dan Hampton, Chuck Reavis, Howard Moody, Fred Williams, Tom Horne, Daniel Jackson, Katie Mann, Pam Banks, Tony Aiken, Hugh Forsythe, Rachel De Llanos, and Ron Rogos.
 
Well done Rotary Club of Leesburg, family, friends and Interact Club.
 
Heritage High School Interact Club Members
Heritage High School Interact Club Members

 
Arlington Cemetery Wreaths
Rotarians and Family Volunteers
Dan Jackson, Dan Hampton and Interact members
 
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Another Successful "Wreaths Across America" Tribute 2015-12-14 00:00:00Z 0

Annual Holiday Party Dec 10, 2015

The Rotary Club of Leesburg's annual Holiday Party was held on Thursday, Dec 10, 2015, at Lost Creek Winery. 
 
Live music, a buffet dinner catered by Savoir Faire, and great wine were served.  These photos, courtesy of Ron Rogos, show members and guests having a great time.
 
 
 
 
Annual Holiday Party Dec 10, 2015 2015-12-04 00:00:00Z 0

Nathalie Herrman: Mastering the Art of Good Habits

Guest speaker and author Nathalie Herrman enlightened and inspired Rotarians on Thursday evening, December 3, 2015. She is an entertaining story teller who provided simple steps to show how small changes in beliefs and behavior can make big changes over time and lead to well-being beyond expectations. She joined us with high recommendations from other Rotary Clubs where she gave audiences her valuable and easy to understand, take-away messages.
www.nathaliewherrman.com
 
 
Nathalie Herrman: Mastering the Art of Good Habits 2015-12-01 00:00:00Z 0

LAWS Receives Rotary Donation for Child Advocacy

The Rotary Club of Leesburg presented a check to Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter (LAWS) as part of a District Grant to support their youth and children's services. LAWS representatives explained that they provide comprehensive services to children who are victims and witnesses of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and teen dating violence.  This Rotary District Matching Grant will support improvements and/or purchase of equipment for therapeutic services offered by the LAWS Child Advocacy Center. 
 
Pictured below is the club's RI Foundation Chair, Matt Burns, presenting the check to LAWS representatives Judy Hanley, Director of the Children's Advocacy Center, and Nicole Acosta, Executive Director, LAWS.
LAWS Receives Rotary Donation for Child Advocacy 2015-11-22 00:00:00Z 0

Thanksgiving Baskets Delivered - Done in a Day!

The Rotary Club of Leesburg participated in the Rotary District 7610 community service project "Done in a Day" on November 21, 2015.  Leesburg Police Chief and Rotarian Joe Price, Club President Dee Jonas and Community Service Leader Ron Rogos delivered five Thanksgiving baskets to very appreciative families at the Leesburg Police headquarters on Saturday. 
 
Price spearheaded the collection of the food, and had identified five families who were in need of some extra help for the holiday.  The families met President Dee who talked briefly about Rotary and the club’s community service activities.  The parents and the children were very grateful for the Club’s generosity in filling the baskets.
 
Pictured below are Dee, Joe and Ron with a couple of the baskets chock full of food and gift cards.
 
Thanksgiving Baskets Delivered - Done in a Day! 2015-11-21 00:00:00Z 0

Bon Appetit! French Dinner Supports Local Charities

 
Chefs/servers (standing in back) served the purchasers of a fine French Dinner (seated).  The dinner was an auction item at a Rotary fundraiser to support local charities. What a fun evening! 
Keith Grayshon selects beverages as Tony Aiken watches.
Ariel Welt preps the strawberry salads
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
Bon Appetit! French Dinner Supports Local Charities 2015-11-18 00:00:00Z 0

Halloween Parade 2015

The Rotary Club of Leesburg and the Heritage High School Interact Club participated in the 2015 Leesburg Halloween parade.  The parade is an annual fun opportunity to connect with the community and promote Rotary events. 
 
The club "float" celebrated Stanley Caulkins' 90th birthday during the parade this year. Rotarian Stanley is a true celebrity in the Leesburg community and Loudoun County.
Rotarian George Webber's red truck has become a club icon in the annual Leesburg Halloween parade.
 
Halloween Parade 2015 2015-11-18 00:00:00Z 0

Inova Loudoun Hospital Leadership Presented at the Rotary Club of Leesburg

Inova Loudoun Hospital's CEO Patrick (Pat) Walters, accompanied by Stacey Miller, Government and Community Relations Liaison, was the guest speaker at the Nov 19, 2015 meeting. Pat, who was a Rotarian in the Alexandria Club, shared an overview of Inova Loudoun Hospitals and his perspectives on health care as a local leader of a nationally recognized hospital and health system. 
 
Our club members have numerous strong links with this local community hospital and applauded Pat's leadership. Connections range from members who were on the medical staff, including President Dee Jonas, to Rotarian Wylie Russell, wife Teck, and other Rotarians' involvement with the annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale fundraiser...and of course, occasionally, some of our Rotarians, family, and friends have been patients.
Inova Loudoun Hospital Leadership Presented at the Rotary Club of Leesburg 2015-11-13 00:00:00Z 0

A Rotary Salute to Veterans

Honoring Veterans 2015

The Veterans' Day Program is always a special evening at the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  The Nov 12th event was another memorable celebration and remembrance of the military men and women who served our country.
 
Master Gunnery Sergeant Chris Stowe, a bomb disposal expert who serves in the Marines, provided a heart-felt and inspiring program about the value of service. He told stories about and expressed appreciation for all that the men and women of the military have done to protect our freedom and help others in everyday life. 
 
Another special Rotary event was the annual Veterans' Day Visit to the Leesburg Elementary School.  Second graders get a chance to interact with several Rotarian veterans in a "show and tell" event.  Our club veterans were warmly welcomed, and the students had great questions, especially for our WWII veteran Stanley Caulkins, who was part of the group.  Thanks again to teacher Karen Hampton for initiating this annual event.
 
Rotarians Chuck Reavis, Stanley Caulkins, Phil Daley and Ron Rogos
Photo courtesy of Dan Hampton
A Rotary Salute to Veterans 2015-11-12 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Presents $15,400 to Boulder Crest Retreat

The Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation was pleased to present a check for $15,400 to Boulder Crest Retreat - the first privately-funded, rural wellness center serving our nation's combat veterans and their families.  Boulder Crest, located in Northern Virginia, was the beneficiary of the successful Second Annual Toast to Our Heroes Wine Tasting Event, held at Murray Hill in beautiful Loudoun County. 
 
The club members are long-time friends of this retreat, a unique, 501(c)3 non-profit organization.  Other support includes meal preparation by Rotarians for retreat participants several weekends each year. Rotarians Valerie, Dee, John and Ron were instrumental in making this wine event a success, as was Ken Falke, Sara Fehrer and other Boulder Creek Staff.  Special thanks go to Altria, the major sponsor.
Left to Right:  Rotarian Valerie Beaudoin. Club President Dee Jonas, Rotarian John Rust, Boulder Crest Founder Ken Falke, and Rotarian Ron Rogos
Rotary Presents $15,400 to Boulder Crest Retreat 2015-11-02 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Welcomes Three New Members

Pictured left to right:  Valerie Beaudoin; Ariel Welt; Buddy Sadak; Liz Sadak,John Rust; Dan Jackson; Rachel Veal; Barbara Jackson; and District Governor Janet Brown.
Photo courtesy of Rotarian Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg warmly welcomed three outstanding people chosen for membership in the club. The new members are: Ariel Welt, sponsored by Valerie Beaudoin; Buddy Sadak, sponsored by Fred Williams with John Rust standing-in for him; and Dan Jackson, co-sponsored by Rachel Veal and Matt Burns.  Their induction ceremony was officiated by member Tom Horne on October 29, 2015. 
 
The ceremony included a special congratulations from Rotary District Governor Janet Brown, who attended and provided the keynote for the evening.
Rotary Club Welcomes Three New Members 2015-11-01 00:00:00Z 0

Service Project - 77th Annual Rummage Sale Clean-Up

Posted on Oct 18, 2015
Rotarian Ernie Carnevale led a group of Rotarians in a community service effort at the 77th Annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale, the largest of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic. Proceeds support the local hospital and provide nursing scholarships.
Thanks to Rachel de Llanos (and three Interact students), Rachel V., Valerie, Howard, Pam, Ernie, and Ron for their efforts. Howard (pictured below) had an engineering challenge here with tables flying everywhere.
Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
Service Project - 77th Annual Rummage Sale Clean-Up 2015-10-19 00:00:00Z 0

Wall Street Journal Deputy Bureau Chief Matthew Rose's Excellent Talk

Matthew Rose, Deputy Bureau Chief of the Wall Street Journal's Washington Bureau, provided a great program to the Rotary Club of Leesburg on October 15, 2015. The club was fortunate and excited to host Matthew, who has an impressive career path in journalism, and is an engaging speaker.  He shared how big stories are put together, using a recent article as an example. The article included mixed media, with print and video.  The link to the video is here.  Check out this very compelling story with a unique multi-media approach. The club warmly thanked Matthew for his excellent talk and welcomed him to return any time.
 
Wall Street Journal Deputy Bureau Chief Matthew Rose's Excellent Talk 2015-10-15 00:00:00Z 0

Happy Birthday, Stanley Caulkins!

Posted on Oct 07, 2015
Stanley Caulkins' 90th birthday was celebrated in style. Stanley is treasured for many things, including being a World War II veteran, long-time local businessman, namesake of the Caulkins Terminal at the Leesburg Executive Airport, dedicated volunteer, and most importantly, a loyal, 50-year member of the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  Stanley's birthday was Oct 6th and he had been given a Key to the Town of Leesburg plaque by Mayor Kristen Umstattd earlier in the week.
 
Rotarian Chuck Reavis interviewed Stanley who shared personal and Rotary stories during the evening. The memorable, fun event was enjoyed by club members, Stanley's family and other guests.
 
Rotarians and guests gathered around Stanley and his cake before singing a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday.
 
Rotarian Chuck Reavis (left) presents a gift to Stanley followed by a club standing ovation.  Applauding (left to right) are Secretary Janice Fristad, President Dee Jonas, (Stanley), and Sgt-at-Arms Valerie Beaudoin.
Photos courtesy of Rotarian Ron Rogos
 
Happy Birthday, Stanley Caulkins! 2015-10-08 00:00:00Z 0

NASA's Chief Scientist Captivates Club

Posted on Oct 01, 2015
Photo from www.NASA.gov
Dr. Ellen Stofan, NASA's top scientist, presented spectacular images and the latest news about Mars, Pluto, Titan and the story of her journey from seeing her first rocket launch at age 4 to becoming a planetary geologist. Her presentation received a standing ovation from members and guests. Afterwards, she graciously fielded questions.
NASA's Chief Scientist Captivates Club 2015-10-02 00:00:00Z 0

Thank you sponsors, runners/walkers, and volunteers for a successful Rehau Rotary Resolutoion Race on January 1st!

 
 
Fastest runner Steve Kool from Vienna, VA celebrating his win
Race co-chair Carole Maloney and Club President Dee Jonas present awards
This handsome trio: Mal Owen, Wiley Russell and Phil Rusciolelli greeted participants with sparkling cider toasts
Live Entertainment
The 19th Annual Rehau Rotary Resolution Race was a popular way to start the New Year. The race was held at the beautiful rolling hills of the 1,000 acre Morven Park in Leesburg.  Warm indoor changing/restrooms, live entertainment, prizes, and special food and drinks are only a few of the many things that made this annual event the BEST way to kick off 2016.
 
Over $320,000 has been raised for local charities since 1998. The charities selected to receive all of the proceeds for 2016 are:
  • ECHO Works
  • Interfaith Relief
  • Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter
  • Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Fund
The race was featured in an international magazine, the Rotarian, and Margaret Morton wrote a great article about the race in Loudoun Now.
Thank you sponsors, runners/walkers, and volunteers for a successful Rehau Rotary Resolutoion Race on January 1st! 2015-09-28 00:00:00Z 0

How Do Rotarians Help Resolve World Conflict?

Judy Smith, Charlie, Bowden, Erik Haas, Juanita Cawley and Lester Schoene
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
The Rotary Club of Leesburg was honored to have a program presented by District leadership team members: Past District Governor/District Foundation Chair Juanita Cawley, District Peace Ambassador Erik Hass, and Peace Fellowship/conflict resolution expert Lester Schoene, Jr, on Sept 24, 2015.  They shared important information about conflict resolution and peace initiatives, including the Rotary Peace Fellowship, the Rotary Peace Center, and World Peace Day. The theme of this year’s International World Peace commemoration is “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All” which aims to highlight the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace.
 
Test Your Knowledge:  What year was the first annual International Peace Day observed?
Hints:
  • Eye of the Tiger by Survivor was the top song in the US that month/year
  • People were listening to Abracadabra by The Steve Miller Band and John Cougar's Jack and Diane, too.
  • E.T., a Spielberg science fiction movie, was released that year and was a box office hit...with cute little Drew Barrymore.
Answer: 1982
How Do Rotarians Help Resolve World Conflict? 2015-09-24 00:00:00Z 0

A Perfect Day for Road Rally and Races

The Leesburg Rotary Club hosted a Road Rally on 10 Oct, 2015, which was a gorgeous, sunny Autumn day. The cars (and truck) toured the beautiful rolling hills of Northern Virginia, as participants were guided by checkered flags marking key spots along the way.  The rally was followed by the 61st Virginia Fall Horse Races in Middleburg, where Rotarians and friends "tail-gated" as guests at the Trout-Revere spread (Rotarian Michelle Cacussio's daughter and son-in-law). 
 
If you missed this amazing day, then you'll certainly want to participate next year.  What a perfect way to relax and enjoy special times with Rotarians, family, and friends in one of the most beautiful places in the country. (Photos courtesy of Rotarian Ron Rogos).
Rounding the corner
 
          The Red Rider                                    Dan and Alicia           
  
Dean enjoying the races.                          Hugh with the two Judies
 
(Left to Right) Virginia Fall Races Tailgate hosts Oscar Revere and Tara Trout with Dr. Heather Trout, Dr. Rich Casuccio and Michelle Casuccio
 
A Perfect Day for Road Rally and Races 2015-09-22 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Welcomes New Member Julia Lee

Ernie Carnevale inducts Julia Lee into the Rotary Club of Leesburg
 
Sponsor Judy Smith pins Julia Lee
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg warmly welcomed new member Julia Lee on September 3, 2015. Ernie Carnevale conducted the induction ceremony, and Member Chair Pam Banks provided the new member material to Julia.
 
Julia has lived in Northern Virginia for most of her life. After graduating from George Mason University, she worked as an accountant in Springfield, Virginia. She eventually moved to southern California with her husband and they lived there for seven years until her husband moved back to Korea to continue his medical practice.
 
Julia returned to Virginia with her two children, and sixteen years ago, a friend, who owned a successful flower shop in Washington, D.C., influenced her to go into the floral business. She started working as a clerk in a local flower shop and after just seven months, Julia took over ownership of the business, Countryside Florist. She has already become involved in planning the upcoming Toast to Our Heroes Wine Event at Murray Hill.
Rotary Club of Leesburg Welcomes New Member Julia Lee 2015-09-04 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians having FUN!

Valerie Beaudoin presents award to Jim Gable
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
Rotarian Sergeant-At-Arms Valerie Beaudoin presents a special award of appreciation to Rotarian Jim Gable at the Sept 3, 2015 meeting. The presentation was a great example of humor and fun times at the meetings. If you want to know what was being appreciated, then come to the meeting and ask either one of them.
Rotarians having FUN! 2015-09-04 00:00:00Z 0

ShelterBox in Action

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotarians Jeff, Jim and Roy try out the ShelterBox
 
Wayne Chiles shared information about our Rotary District 7610 ShelterBox USA Program on Thursday evening, August 20, 2015.
 
ShelterBox USA, Inc. raises funds and deploys shelter for disaster victims. The valuable and compact contents of the "box" provide essentials to help victims rebuild their lives after experiencing devastation. ShelterBox is a grassroots Rotary club project which has rapidly grown to an international level during the past decade.
ShelterBox in Action 2015-08-26 00:00:00Z 0

Loudoun Chamber President and CEO Tony Howard Provides State of Loudoun Update

Posted on Aug 12, 2015
Tony Howard, president & CEO of Loudoun Chamber
Photo courtesy of Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce
 
Tony Howard iis known for his leadership in building one of the most successful Chambers of Commerce in the state.  During his presentation, he recognized the legacy of the chamber. Many past and current Rotarians in this club helped launch and support the organization that now has approximately 1,300 members. 
 
Tony highlighted a few of the diverse activities developed and supported by the chamber members and provided a positive picture of the prospects for Loudoun businesses and non-profit organizations. Tony is a dedicated Rotarian in the Ashburn club.
Loudoun Chamber President and CEO Tony Howard Provides State of Loudoun Update 2015-08-13 00:00:00Z 0

Eileen Swicker's Great Classification Chat

Cheers for new member Eileen Swicker who presented an outstanding "classification chat" on August 6th.  Rotarian Ben Lawrence introduced her with a personal story about his respect for Eileen when working with her after a recent loss. 
 
Eileen took the club on an adventure that followed her from a former career in the CIA, which she respectfully didn't describe, to her international travels, and eventual pursuit of a law degree from George Washington University.  She is now an attorney focused on estate planning and small businesses.  Coincidentally, her office is in the former Laurel Brigade Inn in historic Leesburg. The building was owned by late Rotarian Ellen Wall and this club met there for years.  Eileen is involved in Master Gardening and volunteers tax and legal services through several organizations. Giving back to the community was the primary driver for wanting to join Rotary. The classification chat is a tradition for Rotary Clubs to help members connect.
Eileen Swicker's Great Classification Chat 2015-08-09 00:00:00Z 0

Welcome New Members Rachel Veal and John Whisler

Rotarian Ernie Carnevale (left) inducts new members Rachel Veal and John Whisler
Marylou and John Whisler
Darlene Veal-Salvador and Rachel Veal
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
The club experienced an extra special evening as Rotarian Ernie Carnevale inducted new members Rachel Veal and John Whisler, prior to Nicole Hamilton's inspiring presentation on the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy.  Ernie reviewed some of the rich history of the club that was established in 1927, the expectations of being a Rotarian, and a few of the many service accomplishments and opportunities that membership offers. Rachel, John and their families were warmly welcomed. 
Rachel graduated from James Madison University, where she was an international affairs major and a computer science minor. She works at Northrop Grumman as a cyber-security administrator. She volunteered at the Club's Law Camp picnic and is excited about giving back to the community.  Her sponsor is Valerie Beaudoin.
John serves as a Program Director for Parsons, a large engineering and program management firm. John and Marylou moved from Omaha, NE to Ashburn in 2012. John was a member of Suburban Rotary in Omaha for 16 years, serving as Fundraising Chair, Board Member and Committee Member of numerous Committees. He is a Paul Harris Fellow, and transferred from the Fairfax Rotary. His sponsor is Janice Fristad.
Welcome New Members Rachel Veal and John Whisler 2015-07-31 00:00:00Z 0

The Winner is..... Tom Gates!!!

Excitement peaks!! Sergeant-at-Arms Valerie Beaudoin congratulates Tom Gates who won the 50/50 raffle.  After more than a year of members' efforts to draw the six of clubs from a deck of cards, Tom picked the lucky card on July 30, 2015.
The Winner is..... Tom Gates!!! 2015-07-31 00:00:00Z 0

ROTARY CLUB OF LEESBURG HOLDS SUCCESSFUL WINE TASTING TO BENEFIT BOULDER CREST RETREAT

At Toast to Our Heroes: the 2nd annual wine tasting to benefit Boulder Crest Retreat took place on Sept 10, 2015.  The successful event was held at Murray Hill, a beautiful outdoor event venue in an open, charming rustic barn. The Rotary Club of Leesburg and major sponsor Altria provided a wonderful evening of fellowship and tastings of approximately 30 wines from across the world. Boulder Crest is a non-profit retreat in a nearby rural setting that is dedicated to the wellness of our nation's combat veterans and their families.
Ken Falke presenting a flag from SEAL Team 6
to the staff of Altria—$10,000 sponsors of the event
 
Lovely Murray Hill
 
Rotarians Katie Mann, Valerie Beaudoin and Rachel Veal welcoming and checking in guests
 
Heritage High School Interact Club members and Dan Hampton helped Cured, the caterers
 
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
ROTARY CLUB OF LEESBURG HOLDS SUCCESSFUL WINE TASTING TO BENEFIT BOULDER CREST RETREAT 2015-07-24 00:00:00Z 0

Dean Worcester Presents The Magna Carta

 
Photo courtesy of Jewell Emswiller
June marked the 800th anniversary of the signing of one of the most important documents in history. The Magna Carta has been called "the greatest constitutional document of all time - the foundation of the freedom of the individual against the arbitrary authority of the despot". Thanks to Dean Worcester, an engaging storyteller, judge, and Rotarian extraordinaire, for his presentation about this document at the July 9, 2015, Rotary meeting. For background information, check out a Wall Street Journal article The Magna Carta—Eight Centuries of Liberty, written by Daniel Hannan and published on-line May 29, 2015.
 
Past president Ron Rogos, shown at the head table, led the club as we celebrated 800 years of democracy and kicked off the new Rotary year with this program. Ron filled in for President Dee Jonas. President Dee is looking forward to a wonderful year with everyone engaged in our important work.
Dean Worcester Presents The Magna Carta 2015-07-09 00:00:00Z 0

Special Night to Honor Past President Reavis & New President Jonas

 
Photo collage courtesy of Ron Rogos
President Chuck Reavis presided over the Rotary transition meeting, also known as the "Changing of the Guard".  Niles Ribeiro, who received the first place award in the District Speech Contest, delivered his powerful presentation on Lighting up Rotary. The club was honored to have this 17 year old Warrenton student and his family as guests on this special evening.
 
In recognition of an outstanding year of club service, programs and other activities, the club gave Chuck a hearty applause, a thank-you card signed by members, and contributions of "good news" to recognize his leadership. Dee Jonas presented him with a gavel plaque and past president's pin. He thanked all of the club and the board for their contributions.  Special awards were presented to Ron Rogos, as Rotarian of the Year, and Richard Jollon, as the Rotary Rising Star. Chuck presented Tom Horne with a trophy to honor him for his community service and work in bringing lacrosse to Loudoun County. Club secretary Katie Mann received a beautiful bouquet of red roses in appreciation for her exceptional service and talent.
 
Dean Worcester inducted new president Dee Jonas, who is looking forward to working with the club. She thanked the new board and committee chairs who will serve this year, and introduced the new RI theme "Be a gift to the world". Past presidents lined up for the impressive tradition of passing the gavel to Dee, starting with Stanley Caulkins who served as president in 1957.
 
Special Night to Honor Past President Reavis & New President Jonas 2015-06-28 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Serving Boulder Crest Retreat

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotarians Hugh Forsyth and Dee Jonas, president, sautée green beans for another successful Boulder Crest Retreat dinner.  Thanks to all Rotarians and friends who participated in this community service on June 27, 2015.
Rotarians Serving Boulder Crest Retreat 2015-06-28 00:00:00Z 0

15th Annual Thomas D. Horne Leadership in the Law Summer Camp

Posted on Jun 22, 2015
Source: accessed from www.leesburbva.gov
About 15 years ago, Rotarian and former Loudoun County Circuit Court Judge Tom Horne had a vision for a community outreach program related to law. The camp was established to give rising seniors a glimpse of the judicial system. Since its inception, The Rotary Club of Leesburg has supported the annual Law Camp with a picnic.
 
Approximately two dozen youth from Loudoun and Fauquier County high schools were introduced to Rotarians and fed hot dogs and hamburgers at a cook-out on Tuesday evening,  Eleven Rotarians including Tom Horne, President Chuck Reavis, Ron Rogos, Tom Gates, Jake Jacobson, Jaro Vitaska, Tony Aiken, Valerie Beaudoin, Michelle Martinson, Pam Banks, and Judy Smith were joined by Rachel Veal to serve the students and their attorney/camp chaperones Robin and Carly.
15th Annual Thomas D. Horne Leadership in the Law Summer Camp 2015-06-23 00:00:00Z 0

Canon, Haiti - A Brighter, Better Place Thanks to Our Rotarians

Canon, Haiti classroom lit with solar energy
Photo courtesy of Sarah John

Solar power was installed at a school and church complex in the remote mountain community of Canon, Haiti, which had no electric power.  As a result of a Rotary project, there is now reliable, safe, renewable, free, electric lighting.
 
Rotary Clubs of Centreville, Chantilly, Arlington,  Dunn Loring – Merrifield, Fairfax, Leesburg, Leesburg-Daybreak, McLean, Mount Vernon, Purcellville, Rosslyn – Fort Meyer, and West Point participated together in this project.  Construction began as soon as funds were released by District 7610 in the fall of 2014, and all was completed by the end of February, 2015.
 
Canon is a desperately poor village over 250 km from Port au Prince in the mountains of southwestern Haiti. Canon is an hour by 4-wheel drive vehicle into the mountains from Chantal, the nearest source of medical care. Canon is quite isolated due to the adjacent river which frequently floods to a dangerous level and thus prohibits vehicular crossing, which is usually done by driving through the river itself.   
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg was proud to participate in this effort that benefits:
  • Children from the surrounding mountain homes who attend the village school.  They now have adequately lit, safe classrooms with computers. 
  • Adults from the widely spread out population who can gather at night in a well-lit focal point for community gatherings, civic meetings, and adult education classes.  
  • Community that now has electronic communication with the nursing nuns at the regional dispensary in Chantal as well as with medical facilities in Les Cayes.
The local Catholic Priest has taken responsibility for maintaining and overseeing the sustainability of this project and Rotarians are planning another follow-up trip.
 
Canon, Haiti - A Brighter, Better Place Thanks to Our Rotarians 2015-06-22 00:00:00Z 0

Distinguished Georgetown Law Professor Laura Donohue

Posted on Jun 18, 2015
Rotarian Tom Horne introduces speaker Laura Donohue
Photos courtesy Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg was honored to host speaker Laura Donohue, Professor of Law at Georgetown Law, Director of Georgetown’s Center on National Security, and the Law, and Director of the Center on Privacy and Technology.
 
Dr. Donohue presented a timely and captivating overview of the Return of the General Warrant. She explained recent changes in government access to business records and addressed the relevance of the Fourth Amendment in a Digital Age.
Distinguished Georgetown Law Professor Laura Donohue 2015-06-19 00:00:00Z 0

Sabrina Chira Awarded Rotary Scholarship

Posted on Jun 11, 2015
Sabrina Chira was awarded a two year scholarship by the Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation. She is near the top of her senior class with a 4.4 GPA and a long list of achievements. She came to Monroe Tech in Leesburg from Freedom High School to attend their Computer Systems Technology (CST) program.  Club President Chuck Reavis presented the award at her school ceremony, and invited her to attend a club meeting.  She was recognized at a recent Rotary dinner that she attended with her mother and Jeremy Staples, from the Monroe Tech CST program.
 
She will be going to Christopher Newport University, where she plans to be involved in several service projects. Her future career/academic plans are to study cyber security and earn a Ph. D in Computer Science, Information Technology Management, U.S. National Security Studies, and International Security Studies.
Sabrina Chira Awarded Rotary Scholarship 2015-06-12 00:00:00Z 0

18th Annual REHAU Rotary Resolution Race Beneficiaries

 
Meredith Lefforge - ARC of Loudoun, Jennifer Lassiter - ARC of Loudoun, Dan Hampton - Back Pack Buddies Foundation of Loudoun, Karen Russell - ECHO Works, Nicole Acosta - Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter, Ernie Carnevale - Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Fund
 
 
Photos courtesy of Judy Smith
 
During a special dinner event, the Rotary Club of Leesburg donated proceeds to beneficiaries of the 18th Annual REHAU Rotary Resolution Race. Five local charities were recipients:
ECHO Works (www.echoworks.org)
The Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter (www.lcsj.org)
Backpack Buddies Foundation of Loudoun (www.facebook.com/backpackbuddiesfoundationofloudoun)
The Rotary Club of Leesburg's Perry Winston Memorial Scholarship Fund  www.leesburg-rotary.org
 
The club honored sponsors, including long-time partner REHAU, who helped make it possible. The club and guests celebrated the continued success that has resulted in $300,000 of contributions since the first race.
The longest running New Year's Race in Northern Virginia has many faithful volunteers and runners. Race chairs Carole and Chuck Maloney gave special recognition to one of the volunteers, Darrell Hollowell, for his dedicated service at the water station each year. 
 
Please mark your calendars for the 19th annual race on January 1, 2016.
 
18th Annual REHAU Rotary Resolution Race Beneficiaries 2015-06-05 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Celebrates Perry Winston Scholarship Winners


2015 Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Winners Lauren Beard and Peter Chopivsky.
Current winners with past winners Glelia Reyes (2012) and Katie Goodwin (2014)
Rotarian and past scholarship winner Rachel Gotlieb Llanos
     
Winners with proud parents, Ernie Carnevale, Perry Winston Scholarship Fund President, and Chuck Reavis, Rotary Club of Leesburg President
Photos courtesy of Rotarian Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg celebrated two winners of the $10,000 Perry Winston Scholarship awards for 2015. Seniors Lauren Beard and Peter Chopvisky competed with more than 40 other Leesburg area seniors.  These two exceptional students were joined by several past winners who offered their support and congratulations. The winners provided inspirational comments about the award and their college plans. They received heartfelt, standing ovations from the audience.
 
Lauren Beard will be graduating from Loudoun County High School and was very active in the school band as Drum Major.  She will be attending Virginia Tech. One of her plans at college is to participate in “Ut Prosim Week”, the largest collegiate Relay for the Life in the world. Peter Chopivsky will be graduating from Tuscarora High School and was very active in his Decca Club, attending the national conference in Atlanta. He plans to attend the University of Virginia.  Several members commented that meeting and supporting these outstanding students makes it one of the best events of the year.
Rotary Club Celebrates Perry Winston Scholarship Winners 2015-05-22 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Announces Four Way Test Essay Winner

Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
 
The Rotary Club of Leesburg presented a $100 award to Simona Brkic, a student at Harper Park Middle School who won the Annual Four-Way Test Essay Contest.
In the top photo, Simona is in the center. Cherie Krisa, counselor for Harper Park (left), was instrumental in helping Valerie Beaudoin, Rotary liaison (right), conduct the contest.
The next photo shows Simona and her parents who attended the meeting and were warmly welcomed by Rotarians.
 
The Four-way test is the cornerstone of Rotary service, beliefs and ethics.  It is recited by club members at the end of every meeting and applied to daily activities.
 
"Of all the things we think, say or do...Is it the truth; will be be fair to all concerned; will it build good will and better friendship; and will it be beneficial to all concerned?"
 
The essay was judged based on adequate treatment of all Four-Way Test questions, understanding of these ethical principles, sincerity, originality and essay writing quality. Congratulations Simona. We hope that you check out the Heritage Interact Club next year.
 
 
Rotary Announces Four Way Test Essay Winner 2015-05-22 00:00:00Z 0

Sticky Wickets Croquet Party - Most Fun Event of Spring 2015!

     
Approximately 100 people gathered on the lawn of a beautiful Leesburg estate wearing wacky costumes and eating/drinking food from around the world while playing in a golf croquet tournament. This unique annual event, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Leesburg, raised almost $12,000 for local Loudoun County charities. 
 
Team Sparta clothed in togas and helmets, led by Kimberly Strassel off Hillsboro, took the wining trophy by defeating the impeccably dressed British team, led by Rotarian Wiley Russell. The trophy, called the "Stanley's Cup", was named after local celebrity and Rotarian Stanley Caulkins who was on hand to start the event. Last year's winning team, ECHO, led by Leesburg Daybreak Rotarian Karen Russell, was recognized as were the hosts, Rotarian Jim Gable and Kelly Hymes.
 
Children enjoyed the pool and hot tub, while the adults visited decorated tents to munch when they were not swinging mallets or bidding on auction items. Prizes were awarded for best male and female costumes, most alluring bonnet, best food, best tent decor, and of course, the tournament winners.
 
The event committee was headed by Ron Rogos. The Master of Ceremonies was Ernie Carnevale. Club president Chuck Reavis awarded the winning team and Bob Hauck served as auctioneer. The Rotary Club of Leesburg sponsors the Heritage High School Interact Club whose members ran the children's pool, spa and other activities. Many others were involved since it takes a village to pull off an event so successful and fun.
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Sticky Wickets Croquet Party - Most Fun Event of Spring 2015! 2015-05-16 00:00:00Z 0

Continuing Our Club Tradition of Outstanding Speakers and Guests

Wilkinson, Laise, El-Shatir and Reavis
Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
The Rotary Club of Leesburg continues to host intriguing and thought provoking speakers at weekly meetings.  The last two meetings on April 16th and 23rd, included Lee Wilkinson, who provided enlightening and sobering facts about domestic and international terrorism, and Kristen Laise, who introduced members and guests to the Belle Grove Plantation and its rich history.  The club welcomes visiting Rotarians and was fortunate to have a recent visitor from Alexandria, Egypt,  Maya Mohammed El-Shatir, who exchanged her club banner. Check out our speaker list on this home page to see the impressive line-up.
Continuing Our Club Tradition of Outstanding Speakers and Guests 2015-04-26 00:00:00Z 0

Congratulations to Karen Schaufeld - Paul Harris Fellow

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos:  Club President Chuck Reavis presents Paul Harris Fellow certificate to Kaen Schaufeld while John and Peggy Rust applaud.
 
Karen Schaufeld was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Leesburg. Karen is the founder of 100 Women Strong and All Ages Read Together (AART), two successful non-profits serving Loudoun County.  She is on numerous boards and is an author of children's books, including The Lollipop Tree.  Karen was the perfect choice to receive this honor for her humanitarian efforts.  She was selected from a pool of impressive candidates presented by Club Foundation Chair Chris Fristad.  Her passion and work for improving local and international education, healthcare, poverty and peace match Rotary's mission. 
 
Karen shared that she had a connection to Rotary early in her career when she presented to a New England club and realized the power of Rotarians to get things done. Karen's family attended the presentation at the club on April 2, 2015, and joined the club members in a standing ovation.
 
The first Paul Harris Fellows recognitions were received by Rotarians in 1937-38. Mother Teresa was the first non-Rotarian recipient in 1980. Others include entertainer Pearl Bailey, U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, U.S. astronaut James Lovell, UN Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar, and Jonas Salk. The Fellowship is tied to the Rotary Foundation, and the most notable current global project of the Foundation is to End Polio Now.
 
Congratulations to Karen Schaufeld - Paul Harris Fellow 2015-04-02 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Serving Boulder Crest Retreat

The Rotary Club of Leesburg is becoming known for its members' culinary talents. These talents have served the community through charity efforts such as Grace 2 Go, Boulder Crest and other venues. On Saturday night, 3/28, the Rotary Club prepared 45 dinners for veterans and company representatives attending an employment workshop at Boulder Crest Retreat.  The preparation of the wonderful dinner was directed by Chefs Ernie and Dan. Helping with the prep and serving were: Tom, Dee, Dean, Page, Jaro, Dave and Ron. In addition, Rotarian Pam attended the entire employment day to help out.  A great time was had by all while providing a very helpful community service.
Rotarians Serving Boulder Crest Retreat 2015-03-28 00:00:00Z 0

Welcome, Jennifer and Dan Hudson

The Rotary Club of Leesburg was pleased to induct two new members, Jennifer and Dan Hudson.  Club members have been getting to know them during the membership proposal process, Dan works in the IT industry, primarily supporting the government.  Jennifer is a federal employee, based in the Tysons area. Both Dan and Jennifer have been involved in addressing poverty issues locally and internationally, traveling to Uganda and Haiti.  They look forward to continuing this love of service through their involvement with Rotary. Members will hear more about these outstanding new members during their upcoming classification talks.
Welcome, Jennifer and Dan Hudson 2015-03-13 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarian Chris Mallin Joins Rotary Club of Leesburg

Chris Mallin joined the Rotary Club of Leesburg and comes from a Rotary Club in Arlington,VA, where he was active as the Foundation Chairperson.  Professionally, he works for AtSite as a Senior Director. AtSite is a smart buildings solutions company in the DC area. Prior to his new job, he was with Honeywell International as the operations leader for the mid-Atlantic region.  Chris and his wife Brooke live in the town of Leesburg with their two young children.  He is a graduate of Virginia Tech.  He is interested in Foundation and Membership service and is a great addition to the club.
 
 
 
Rotarian Chris Mallin Joins Rotary Club of Leesburg 2015-02-27 00:00:00Z 0

Way to Go - Grace to Go Volunteers!

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
Heritage High School Interact Club Officers Larry and Melinda have messy hands after becoming master carrot shredders!
Rotarians, Heritage High Interact and friends prepared 172 meals for area neighbors needing food.
 
Grace to Go is a great opportunity for hands-on service and our club has been participating for several years.
 
Thanks to Howard Moody for organizing our effort, St. James Episcopal Church for sponsoring it, Deli South for their kitchen, and all the volunteers who make it possible to distribute food to those in need.
Way to Go - Grace to Go Volunteers! 2015-02-15 00:00:00Z 0

Remembrance Wreath Pick-up

Thanks to all Rotarians, families and friends who picked up the Remembrance Wreaths at Arlington Cemetery on Sat, Jan 24, 2015.  Because of thousands of volunteers, it went like clock-work.
 
The next Wreaths Across America Day will be Saturday, December 12, 2015.
Remembrance Wreath Pick-up 2015-01-24 00:00:00Z 0

French Dinner - Tres Elegante!

Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
The superb chefs and wait staff for this elegant dinner event were none other than the Rotary Club of Leesburg members and "family" who put away their regular work clothes and donned restaurant attire and culinary tools. Held at the lovely Aiken maison, the night proved to be an outstanding dining experience. Diners had purchased the auction item, a French Dinner, during the Sticky Wickets Croquet Tournament and Garden Party.  Given the rave reviews, (which some diners would like to keep secret), the auction item could be even more popular at the upcoming Sticky Wicket event in May 2015.
French Dinner - Tres Elegante! 2015-01-11 00:00:00Z 0

18th Rehau Rotary Resolution Race is Big Success!

Posted by Judy Smith on Jan 01, 2015

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Family Fun:  Mom, with hand raised, brings along the 2 month old Jia twins for the Fun Walk on a beautiful day.

Thanks to sponsors, participants and volunteers for another successful Rehau Rotary Resolution Race on January 1, 2015.  In its 18th year, it is the longest running New Year's Day race in Northern Virginia.

Louis Romirez, 24, won the 10K, which was timed by Amazing Race Timing, a DC certified timing company.

Common comments by participants included appreciation of delicious snacks, gorgeous and challenging rolling hills of Morven Park, live music, tuxedoed greeters giving out sparkling cider upon finishing, and the overall organization of the race.

Check out the media coverage that highlights the race history and several Rotary Club members, including Chuck and Carole Maloney, who co-chair the race each year.  http://www.leesburgtoday.com  Leesburg Today featured stories on December 27, 2014 and January 2, 2015.

More photos and information will be forthcoming on this Club website.

18th Rehau Rotary Resolution Race is Big Success! Judy Smith 2015-01-02 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation Night Celebration

Posted by Judy Smith on Dec 10, 2014

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Presentation of Paul Harris Society Banner (Left to Right) Chuck Davidson, Judy Smith, Katie Mann, Valerie Beaudoin, Tony Aiken, Sandy Duckworth and Chuck Reavis

District Foundation Chair Chuck Davidson, Sandy Duckworth and her husband Don joined the club for a night of education and celebration regarding the many things that the Rotary Foundation has done around the globe - from polio efforts to clean water and serving many District efforts. Sandy provided an inspiring overview of the accomplishments and encouraged members to support the Foundation. Chuck Davidson and Sandy joined club president Chuck Reavis and club foundation chair Chris Fristad to award Paul Harris Fellow and Paul Harris Society honors.  The ceremony included a coveted club banner earned by having four or more Paul Harris Society members.

Rotary Foundation Night Celebration Judy Smith 2014-12-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Supports Boulder Crest Retreat

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 21, 2014

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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos

Left to right  Wine event chair Valerie Beaudon, Club President Chuck Reavis, Boulder Crest Chair/Founder Ken Falke and Vino 9 representative/event supporter Nishelle.

The Rotary Club of Leesburg president Chuck Reavis presented Ken Falke a check to support Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness on Nov 22, 2014.  The check was the proceeds of an inaugural wine tasting fundraiser held to benefit the Retreat earlier this year.

The presentation occurred at the Retreat following an Italian dinner prepared for approximately 40 weekend guests, staff and volunteers.  Rotarians honored the heroes and their families by cooking and serving their Saturday dinner.  The Rotary Club volunteers put their talent, heart and soul into the preparation and the result was a spectacular experience for all.

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Photo courtesy of Judy Smith

The volunteers.

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Chefs Ernie Carnevale and Dan Hampton

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Rotary Club of Leesburg Supports Boulder Crest Retreat Judy Smith 2014-11-22 00:00:00Z 0

Former Navy Seal Jim Campbell helps Club Honor Veterans

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 05, 2014

LEESBURG ROTARIANS SALUTE VETERANS WITH A SPECIAL PROGRAM

6:30 pm
November 6, 2014

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In addition to honoring and remembering our own veterans, former Navy SEAL Jim Campbell, USNR, will join the club tonight as a special guest with Melina, his wife of 25 years.  Jim will share fascinating stories and insights for our Veterans' Program.. This  annual tribute to veterans is always memorable and one of the highlights of the year.

Jim enlisted in the Navy in January 1980 and immediately went to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training in Coronado, CA. He was then assigned to SEAL Team One, where he served in three Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and Special Operations platoons. He had many deployments from the Persian Gulf to Somalia and even to a totally secret location as part of a Special Operations Platoon.

A few of many career highlights include serving as a Department of Homeland Security agent and redeployment to active duty and promotion to the prestigious rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4.

Today, Jim continues his civilian career and his naval career.  Jim and Melina are the proud parents of four children, three boys and a girl.

Former Navy Seal Jim Campbell helps Club Honor Veterans Judy Smith 2014-11-06 00:00:00Z 0

"Lost Boy of Sudan" John Thon Majok Captivates Rotarians and Guests

Posted by Judy Smith on Oct 22, 2014

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John Thon, Yum and Abuk Majok at the Rotary Club of Leesburg

Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos

The spellbinding story of John Thon Majok was a Rotary Club of Leesburg program that will be long-remembered.  John presented his personal story about resilience based on his experience as a former "lost boy of Sudan".

Seven year old John Thon Majok left his home, parents, and eight siblings in South Sudan to join a group of 20,000 other children escaping the horrors of the 1987 Sudanese Civil War. The group was eventually named "The Lost Boys of Sudan". They walked barefoot for over 1,000 miles from Sudan to Ethiopia and back to Sudan before settling in refugee camps in Kenya. They endured extreme hardships with scant food and resources and at times were chased by wild animals.

In 2001, John Thon was flown by the U.S. State Department to Tucson for resettlement along with 59 other "Lost Boys" who had become young men. In 2003, he was valedictorian of Pima Community College and gave the commencement address. In 2005, John Thon graduated from the University of Arizona with honors and was named Outstanding Senior in the School of Public Administration and Policy.  He interned on Capitol Hill for an Arizona Congressman. John Thon relocated to D.C. and joined the State Department. He earned a Masters Degree at George Mason University. In 2013, he became Program Associate at The Woodrow Wilson Center, where he received an excellence award. John Thon and his beautiful wife, Yom, have a lively six-year old daughter named Abuk. Yom was a refugee in the camp, also.  What an inspirational family!

"Lost Boy of Sudan" John Thon Majok Captivates Rotarians and Guests Judy Smith 2014-10-23 00:00:00Z 0

Charitable Fine Dining Experience

Posted by Judy Smith on Oct 09, 2014

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Chefs Ernie and Dan prep themselves before the meal. laugh  

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Chefs Kelly, Ernie and Dan prep the food while server Tony gets ready to serve.  Server Ron and diners not pictured.

A private dining experience was a coveted auction item at the Rotary Club of Leesburg's annual Sticky Wickets Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party this past Spring.  The dinner was held at the lovely home of Chuck and Carole Maloney on Saturday, October 4, 2014.  

Chefs Ernie Carnevale, Kelly Hymes, and Dan Hampton and servers Tony Aiken and Ron Rogos provided a delicious and fun experience.  The diners were Wylie and Teck Russell, Kris and Dave Struba, John and Peggy Rust, Jim Gable, and Chuck and Carole Maloney. Proceeds went to the Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation to benefit local charities. Their generous contributions of time and funds were appreciated.

Charitable Fine Dining Experience Judy Smith 2014-10-10 00:00:00Z 0

Get to Know our Extraordinary Rotarians!

Posted by Judy Smith on Oct 01, 2014

The Rotary Club of Leesburg includes diverse leaders known for their business and humanitarian accomplishments in the local community and globally.  October classification chats by Monika Irchenhauser and Rich Casuccio will showcase two of our exceptionally talented and compassionate members with international and local ties.

Members and guests are getting to know our other newest members including Matt Burns, Richard Jollon, John Hamrick, and Michelle Casuccio. Please contact our president Chuck Reavis, if you'd like to know more out about our club.

Get to Know our Extraordinary Rotarians! Judy Smith 2014-10-02 00:00:00Z 0

Tiptoe through Africa

Posted by Judy Smith on Sep 17, 2014

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Tom Horne accompanied by wife Trisha took members and guests on a virtual tour of Africa.  He provided the audience with a written synopsis, a map, and Zimbabwe currency, which would make a few people very rich if it were valid money today.  He shared breathtaking pictures of Victoria Falls, sunsets, and villages from across the African continent as music played in the background.  He showed close-ups (some maybe too close?!) of majestic lions, gangly giraffes, strong elephants and even a black rhino encountered during their journey.  The evening was topped off by Dee Jonas pointing out the locations on his map of the water projects that our club supports as part of the District 7610 Strategic Water Alliance.

Tiptoe through Africa Judy Smith 2014-09-18 00:00:00Z 0

A Toast to Our Heroes Wine Tasting Event Was Big Success!

Posted by Valerie Beaudoin on Sep 10, 2014

THANK YOU to all who supported Boulder Crest Retreat at this Rotary Club of Leesburg event. The successful wine tasting took place at a lovely venue, Murray Hill, on the banks of the Potomac River on Thursday, 9/11/2014.  Sponsors, participants and recipients were recognized and participants mingled and tasted wines from five countries.

A Toast to Our Heroes Wine Tasting Event Was Big Success! Valerie Beaudoin 2014-09-11 00:00:00Z 0

All About Rotary on Aug 21st

Posted by Judy Smith on Aug 20, 2014

Rotarian and computer expert Valerie Beaudoin provided tips and encouraged members to use three Rotary websites at the August 21st meeting.  Handy online tools include private contact information for the use of our members, interesting Rotary stories, calendars of events, Rotary news and much more.  Each member was asked to check their personal info for accuracy.  If passwords and log-ins have been forgotten, she will help members reset them. The three websites include:  www.leesburg-rotary.org (club); www.rotary7610.org (District); and www.rotary.org (international)

Her presentation was followed by a synopsis and video of the Rotary International Convention 2014 held in Sydney, Australia. Past President Judy Smith and her husband Mal Owen attended. Judy shared highlights that included Past RI Presidents Ron Burton's inspiration and passion to leverage our investments in youth activities such as Interact, RYLA, exchange students and scholarship recipients. She told a few stories including one about a humorous keynote Jack Sim, who founded the World Toilet Organization.  Pictures of the stunning Australian landscape ended the review along with encouragement to consider future conventions to be held in Sao Paulo, Brazil; South Korea and Atlanta in the next three years.

All About Rotary on Aug 21st Judy Smith 2014-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Tanya Bittenbender Presents Leadership Loudoun

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 30, 2014

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Tanya Bittenbender, program coordinator, shared Leadership Loudoun's principles of Discover, Inspire, Connect during the July 31 club meeting.  She engaged Rotarians to think about how they define leadership.  This prestigious, non-profit organization provides a nine month development program for leaders in our county.  Each annual class of 15-25 people takes on projects that result in positive change. She explained that the latest class completed a community impact project with Habitat for Humanity to remember Erin Peterson, who died in the Virginia Tech shooting.

Tanya Bittenbender Presents Leadership Loudoun Judy Smith 2014-07-31 00:00:00Z 0

Getting to Know Member Rich Jollon

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 23, 2014

ImageRichard (Rich) Jollon's classification chat gave members of the Rotary Club of Leesburg a glimpse into his life and career.  Sponsor Ernie Carnevale set the stage with a warm introduction.  Rich shared stories that included his professional interest and career in government sales, his family that includes a baby and Rotarian wife (Leesburg Daybreak Rotarian), and his passion for giving back.  His commitment to service was exemplified early in his adult life and continues with the many activities he has stepped up to do since he joined the club in March 2014.  One of his compelling stories was his experience and reasons behind founding the ethical and service-minded Iota Lambda Chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity at Longwood University, where he served as fraternity president.

Getting to Know Member Rich Jollon Judy Smith 2014-07-24 00:00:00Z 0

Changing of the Guard 2014

Posted by Judy Smith on Jun 25, 2014

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Dean Worcester administers the oath of office to new Rotary Club of Leesburg President Chuck Reavis during the Changing of the Guard.

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Dean Worcester conducts installation ceremony for new board members: Pam Banks; George Webber, Jeff Mitchell, Dee Jonas and Chuck Reavis.

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Dan Hampton awarded Rotarian of the Year 2013-14 by outgoing president Judy Smith.

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Past President Stanley and Valerie Beaudoin, 2014 winner of the Club's "Rising Star Award"

 

 

 

Changing of the Guard 2014 Judy Smith 2014-06-26 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Newest Members

Posted by Judy Smith on Apr 29, 2014

The Rotary Club of Leesburg welcomed three new members in March 2014 with the following classifications;

  • Matt Burns, CPA
  • Monika Irchanhauser, Human Resources
  • Richard Jollon, Government Sales

All three new members are already involved in planning club events and actively participating.

Rotary's Newest Members Judy Smith 2014-04-30 00:00:00Z 0

Author Reveals Loudoun's Little Known History

Posted by Judy Smith on Apr 20, 2014

Discover stories of Loudoun County's rich Civil War and post-war history from award winning author and historian Kevin Grigsby. Kevin will be presenting on Thursday night, April 24, 2014, at the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  Kevin's second book, From Loudoun To Glory, focuses on the roles of Loudoun County's African-Americans as soldiers, sailors, nurses, spies, and scouts. 

In addition to the privilege of having this local celebrity, the Club will be inducting new member John Hamrick.  John has an engineering consultant background, specializing in water resources and environmental and coastal engineering. He resides in Leesburg and is being sponsored by member Dave Struba.

Author Reveals Loudoun's Little Known History Judy Smith 2014-04-21 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Salute to Dr. Ed Hatrick, Retiring School Superintendent

Posted by Judy Smith on Mar 12, 2014

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Photo Courtesy of Ron Rogos

(Left to right: Judy Smith, president Rotary Club of Leesburg; Charlie Bowden, past Rotary district Governor and Rotary Club of Leesburg member; Priscilla Godfrey, Rotary Club of Purcellville,; Su Webb, Rotary Club of Sterling; honorees Betty Hatrick and Ed Hatrick, superintendent of Loudoun County Schools; Juanita Cawley, Rotary district governor; Lynde Scheffer, Rotary Club of Ashburn; and Bernadette Durkin, president Daybreak Rotary Club of Leesburg)

Loudoun County's five Rotary clubs, Rotary's District leadership, family and friends honored retiring superintendent of Loudoun County Schools, Dr. Ed Hatrick, and his wife Betty, on March 13, 2014.  The dinner tribute was held at the River Creek Country Club, with almost 100 people in attendance.   

Rotary District Governor Juanita Cawley, a retired assistant superintendent of West Point schools, shared wisdom and congratulations to the honoree. Master of Ceremonies and Rotary Club of Leesburg President-Elect Chuck Reavis kicked off the tribute with a heartfelt and humorous glimpse into Dr. Hatrick's life.  George Atwell, long-time friend and colleague in the school system, and Bernadette Durkin, President of the Rotary Club of Leesburg Daybreak, where Ed is a charter member, provided engaging personal and professional stories, including an original poem by Bernadette.  Dr. Hatrick and his wife Betty were presented with gifts as tokens of appreciation and the audience showed their appreciation of his service with a standing ovation.  Dr. Hatrick's remarks included recognition of many people in the room who are champions for children and are devoted to the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self".

Keeping with Rotary traditions, John Tattersall from the Rotary Club of Sterling and Assistant District Governor led the pledge of allegiance to the US flag, Charlie Bowden from the Rotary Club of Leesburg delivered the invocation, and Lynde Scheffer from the Rotary Club of Ashburn led the recitation of the Four-Way Test.  Leesburg's  Sergeant-at-arms Bob Hauck facilitated a 50/50 drawing.  The Rotary Club of Purcellville's Priscilla Godfrey drew the ticket belonging to winner Monika Irchenhauser.  The evening was a memorable salute to a deserving recipient.

Rotary Salute to Dr. Ed Hatrick, Retiring School Superintendent Judy Smith 2014-03-13 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Contribute to Loudoun Cares Challenge

Posted by Judy Smith on Feb 19, 2014

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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos

The Rotary Club of Leesburg Foundation and club members contributed generously to the Loudoun Cares challenge.  Loudoun Cares is raising funds to match up to $100,000 by an anonymous donor. Dana Huggins with Loudoun Cares visited the club on Feb 20th to talk about how the money will be used to serve local needs. See picture of her holding their sign.  Loudoun Cares will be at Palio's Restaurant in Leesburg on Wed, Feb 26th, counting the funds.  We are cheering for a 100% match for this great cause.  For more info, go to their Facebook page (and see the "shout out" of thanks to our club!).

Rotarians Contribute to Loudoun Cares Challenge Judy Smith 2014-02-20 00:00:00Z 0
Nationally Recognized School Leader Mary Lou Leipheimer Speaks to Rotary Club Judy Smith 2013-11-14 00:00:00Z 0

In Appreciation of Veterans Today and Always

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 10, 2013

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On this special day, I want to express appreciation to our veterans, and provide an update on "what you missed last week" for anyone who was unable to attend our Veteran's Day event.

Last Thursday, five of our own club veterans, who were randomly selected from many club veterans, shared their thoughts and fascinating stories about military service.  In the backdrop, dozens of photos of our club and family veterans flashed with animated flags and stars on a large screen. Phil Rusciolelli provided red poppies, a symbol of respect and remembrance for veterans.

The meeting concluded with the eloquently told story of the Doolittle Raiders.  Their Tokyo raid was a turning point in WWII. President-elect Chuck Reavis narrated the story and past president Ron Rogos offered the toast. Members and guests raised glasses for a Cognac toast.  It was a moving tribute to the Doolittle Raiders and all veterans.  On Saturday, we learned that three of the four remaining Raiders met in Dayton, Ohio, for what they said would be their last reunion and final toast to the men lost in the raid and since then. 

The tribute to our brave veterans was one of the most memorable and heartwarming events that I have experienced. Thank you veterans!

Judy Smith, President

Rotary Club of Leesburg

In Appreciation of Veterans Today and Always Judy Smith 2013-11-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Veterans Visit 2nd Grade

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 10, 2013

Eight Rotary Club of Leesburg members visited second graders at Leesburg Elementary School on Friday, Nov 8th.  The enthusiastic students interacted with the friendly, charming veterans. This special event was part of the upcoming  holiday to celebrate and honor veterans.  Teacher and Rotary spouse Karen Hampton organized the annual event several years ago for her class. Due to its popularity, the visit was expanded to all five second grade classes.

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R. Rogos, C Bowden, C. Reavis, B Noe, C. Fristad, P. Rusciolelli, P. Daley and J. Jacobson

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A wounded warrior's daughter asked to have her photo taken with Colonel Jake Jacobson, US Army ret., with photo permission granted.

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Rotary Club Veterans Visit 2nd Grade Judy Smith 2013-11-11 00:00:00Z 0

Ben and Lindsey win the Not So Newlywed Game

Posted by Judy Smith on Aug 14, 2013

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Ernie Carnevale introduced four couples who competed in the "The Not so Newlywed Game" at the Rotary Club of Leesburg on Thursday night.   Members and guests were entertained by great humor, stories and fun times as the couples  tried to predict what their mates would say in the club's version of an old TV show.  The soon-to-be-wed couple Ben Saul and Lindsey Kurland (pictured), won the contest, beating the long-married couples.  Melissa Phillips toasted them after several members provided wise and eloquent advice for their upcoming marriage.

Ben and Lindsey win the Not So Newlywed Game Judy Smith 2013-08-15 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Welcomes New Member John Rust

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 31, 2013

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Photo courtesy Ron Rogos

Wiley Russell welcomes John Rust as John's wife Peggy and his sponsor Fred Williams observe the induction.

Rotary Welcomes New Member John Rust Judy Smith 2013-08-01 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club at Leesburg Fourth of July Parade

Posted on Jul 03, 2013

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Photo courtesy of Mal Owen

The Rotary Club of Leesburg was represented at the July 4th Parade by new president Judy Smith driven by senior adviser/past president Tony Aiken, who loaned his hot red sports car.

Rotary Club at Leesburg Fourth of July Parade 2013-07-04 00:00:00Z 0

Changing of the Guard on June 27th

Posted by Judy Smith on Jun 26, 2013

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Photo by Ron Rogos

Tom Horne administered the oath to Judy Smith and the new board.

President Mike Casey presided at this last meeting of the Rotary year and it was a special time on June 27, 2013.  Master of Ceremonies and Senior Adviser Chuck Maloney provided a summary of Mike and the Club's many accomplishments and "firsts" during the past year. Mike was recognized for his outstanding leadership and presented with a gavel plaque and pin by incoming president Judy. 

Mike and Carolyn have moved to Wisconsin and will be missed by all.  One of their many contributions to the club was initiating and organizing the Sticky Wickets Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party, a successful annual event.

Changing of the Guard on June 27th Judy Smith 2013-06-27 00:00:00Z 0

Welcome Zach!

Posted by Judy Smith on May 04, 2013

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Party for newest future Rotarian Zach Hampton with proud parents Karen and Dan.

Welcome Zach! Judy Smith 2013-05-05 00:00:00Z 0

Sugarloaf Mountain Hike

Posted by Judy Smith on Apr 19, 2013
ImageRotarians, family and friends hiked beautiful Sugarloaf Mountain (Maryland) followed by a delicious and fun lunch at the historic Comus Inn.
Sugarloaf Mountain Hike Judy Smith 2013-04-20 00:00:00Z 0

New Club Members Sarah Murphy and Valerie Beaudoin Inducted

Posted by Mike Casey on Apr 10, 2013

Club Meeting Report

Sarah Murphy and Valerie Beaudoin were inducted as new members, sponsored by Dee Jonas and Stanley Caulkins, respectively.

Sarah, whose classification is Professional Services – International, is an Irish citizen who was born and educated in Cork, Ireland.   She is a Chartered Management Accountant by profession, with over 20 years in the International Commercial Finance arena.  She is with British Standards Institution (BSI Group), where she currently holds the position of Chief Financial Officer for the Americas.  Having spent most of her career in the international arena, Sarah has lived in such locations as London and Hong Kong and now Leesburg.

Valerie, whose classification is Computer – Consulting, was born and raised in Montréal, Canada.  She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Criminology at the University of Montreal and, after a year of splitting her time between helping young adults in difficulties regain control of their lives and working with an Internet Service Provider, accepted a full-time position at PSiNet Canada in Ottawa as a customer service representative for French speaking clients.  After other valuable work experience in Canada, Valerie moved to the US approximately five years ago and lives in Leesburg.  She specializes in managing mobile application development and leads three teams of developers on a variety of projects. 

Stanley says Valerie has taught him all he knows about computers.  We don’t know if that’s a great recommendation, but we do know Valerie and Sarah will be outstanding Club Members.  

Two guests were Jenny Sofologis, who has expressed interest in becoming a Rotarian and is visiting Loudoun County clubs, and our speaker’s husband, Brian.

Our speaker for the evening, Susan Mandel Giblion, told us about the support the more than 225 Loudoun Volunteer Caregivers provide to the frail, elderly and disabled adults who need that assistance to maintain independent living.  Offering their time, expertise and commitment to service, these volunteers provide a wide range of support services, including transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, meal preparation, household chores, special outings and help with managing personal financial affairs.  Our own Hugh Forsythe Chairs the organization’s Board of Directors.

Yours in Rotary Service

Mike

New Club Members Sarah Murphy and Valerie Beaudoin Inducted Mike Casey 2013-04-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Chefs in Action

Posted by Judy Smith on Apr 08, 2013

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Rotary chefs prepare breakfast for board members at Tony's and WHAT A SUPERB BREAKFAST! 

Rotary Chefs in Action Judy Smith 2013-04-09 00:00:00Z 0

Former Scholarship Winner Rachel Gottlieb Inducted as Newest Member

Posted by Judy Smith on Apr 03, 2013

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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
The Rotary Club of Leesburg welcomes Rachel Gottlieb.  Rachel is a former winner of the Perry Winston Rotary Club of Leesburg Scholarship Fund and Heritage High School Interact president.   Jake Jacobson presided over her induction and was the first to welcome her to the club. Her mother pinned Rachel with the Rotary emblem, while Jake and her sponsor Bob Noe watch proudly. Rachel received a standing ovation from the club members. 

Rachel received her bachelor and master's degrees from UVA, and returned to Leesburg as an educator, teaching at Heritage High School. 

Former Scholarship Winner Rachel Gottlieb Inducted as Newest Member Judy Smith 2013-04-04 00:00:00Z 0

A Great "Ben and Joe Show"

Posted by Mike Casey on Mar 27, 2013

Last week, we had three more new Paul Harris Fellow recognitions!  Tom Horne reminded us all what The Rotary Foundation means to our community and the world at large and helped recognize Katie Mann, Omar Saleh and Dave Struba as our Club’s newest members to this prestigious group.  Judy Smith noted that our Club was given a “shout out” from the International Office at the President-Elect Training Institute she attended last week for the large number of new PHF’s we have added this year – they know we exist!

Pam Banks told us that Marlena Schoppert won our Student Essay Contest.  Her essay will be entered in the Rotary District 6710 contest later this month.

Guests at the meeting included Olivia Page, the Shenandoah Valley University student who received our Monroe Technology Center scholarship last year – and her grades have been outstanding this year!  Also joining us were Steve Gehring from his Rotary Club in South Dakota and Ben Saul’s fiancé, Lindsey Kurland.

Chuck Maloney reported that he and Carole had visited Larry Schiro earlier in the week, following his hip replacement surgery, and he was doing quite well.

Ron Rogos reported that we now have seven Croquet Teams and expect to generate one more from the other Loudoun Rotary Clubs, bringing the number to the targeted eight for the event at Jim Gable’s home on Sunday, June 9th.  Club Members will receive an invitation in the mail this next week; so, please look for it and respond promptly.  It will be another fun time.

Ben Saul and Joe Price brought their power point presentations and senses of humor to the meeting as they told us about their families, how they got into their chosen professions and what Rotary means to them – reinforcing the fact that our own Club Members are truly exceptional people and provide some of the best programs we have, year in and year out.

Yours in Rotary Service

Mike Casey

President

A Great "Ben and Joe Show" Mike Casey 2013-03-28 00:00:00Z 0

St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Posted by Judy Smith on Mar 13, 2013

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Dean and Tammy, with help from Pam Banks, Chuck Maloney and Bob Noe, put together a great St. Patrick’s Day celebration!  They provided colorful decorations, surprisingly good food (hey, how often do most of us eat corned beef and cabbage) and drink, great Step Dancing music and dancers and some fine toasts and humor.  With Jim Gable and John Marsh in their outfits for the evening and quite a few partners and friends, a good time was had by all.

Fred, Melissa and Mike passed around photos of their “meeting with Bill Gates” earlier in the day (along with approximately 125 other Rotarians) near the Capitol Reflecting Pool to promote Polio Plus. See story on this home page.

Another set of Snow Birds returned – Wiley and Teck, welcome back.

Two reminders:

1.       If you plan to attend “An International Affair” supporting the Boulder Crest Retreat for Wounded Warriors, please let Ron know by Monday, March 18.

2.       The District Conference in Arlington is scheduled for April 25 thru 28 - a number of Club Members are going – please consider attending yourself.

Larry Schiro will be having a hip replaced at Reston Hospital next Tuesday – we wish him well.

And, who knew that Pope Francis I was a member of The Rotary Club of Buenos Aires?  Thank you, Omar.

Enjoy the week ahead!

Yours in Rotary Service

Mike

St. Patrick's Day Celebration Judy Smith 2013-03-14 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians advocate the fight to end polio

Posted by Judy Smith on Mar 13, 2013

Rotarians Melissa, Fred and Mike joined Rotary International, Bill Gates, and fellow supporters on the steps on Capitol Hill to advocate for the fight to end polio. We are “this close” to ending polio. Share your voice and together we can make history. http://www.endpolio.org/advocacy 


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Rotarians advocate the fight to end polio Judy Smith 2013-03-14 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary "Iron" Chefs Judy Smith 2013-02-12 00:00:00Z 0

Wreaths Across America 2012

Posted by Judy Smith on Dec 14, 2012

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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos

Rotarians from our club, family, friends and busloads of our Heritage High School Interact Club members participated in Wreaths Across America on December 15, 2012, at Arlington Cemetery. Chuck Reavis organized participation with the help of other Rotarians and Interact officers.  More than 110,000 wreaths were donated to remember those who served our country.  Approximately 20,000 volunteers put the wreaths on grave markers.  Our club was privileged and honored to support this effort again this year.

Wreaths Across America 2012 Judy Smith 2012-12-15 00:00:00Z 0

Laura TeKrony Awarded Citizen of the Year

Posted by Judy Smith on Dec 12, 2012

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LAURA TEKRONY was awarded the Rotary Club of Leesburg Citizen of the Year by President Mike Casey at the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce on December 13, 2012.

She volunteered countless hours of time for more than eight years at both the grass-roots and board level of leadership serving non-profit and advisory organizations in Loudoun County. She has focused her efforts on some of the most challenging issues in the region from transportation improvements and open/spaces to preserving the rich history of the area.

She co-founded a citizens organization, served on the Aldie Heritage Board and has a long list of other accomplishments. Rotarian Su Webb and local business professional Steve Hines co-nominated Laura. She is an up and coming voice in Loudoun County.  The presentation was attended by more than 100 Chamber members and almost a dozen members of our Rotary Club.  Laura was nominated for this award by Rotarian Su Webb and local businessman Steve Hines. She was selected from a pool of outstanding candidates for this honor.

Laura TeKrony Awarded Citizen of the Year Judy Smith 2012-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Keep Leesburg Beautiful

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 09, 2012

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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Steve Krisa leads Rotarians in the clean-up of Sycolin Road in Leesburg. Did the tire win the competition for best trash or was there some other weird stuff in those orange bags?!

Rotarians Keep Leesburg Beautiful Judy Smith 2012-11-10 00:00:00Z 0

Road Rally Rocked!

Posted by Judy Smith on Oct 13, 2012
ImageImageImageImageImageImageImageRotarians, family and friends enjoyed a beautiful fall day driving around Loudoun County followed by great music, food and wine at Hiidden Brook Winery
Road Rally Rocked! Judy Smith 2012-10-14 00:00:00Z 0

Prestiguous Rotary Scholar Visits Club on Aug 23rd

Posted by Judy Smith on Aug 20, 2012
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Our recent speaker, Jessica Walker, was awarded the highly competitive Rotary Ambassadorial scholarship. She studied at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, and continues to advance the Rotary Foundation's promotion of world understanding, goodwill, and peace.  Her other impressive credentials include an internship with the U.S. Committee for the United Nations Development Program; research assistant at the the Peace Institute; and numerous honors for her volunteer work at regional and state levels. She is with Deloitte Consulting LLP in Washington, DC, currently.  The Rotary Club is especially excited to welcome Jessica because of her strong roots in Loudoun County.
Prestiguous Rotary Scholar Visits Club on Aug 23rd Judy Smith 2012-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Support Stone Bridge High School Leadership Forum

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 29, 2012
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On July 30th, Rotary Club of Leesburg members volunteered to serve lunch at the Stone Bridge High School Leadership Forum.  Stone Bridge HS in Ashburn was ranked the tenth best high school in Virginia by U.S. News and World Report recently – the first time a Loudoun County school has been included among the top 10 state schools since the list was created in 2007.
Rotarians Support Stone Bridge High School Leadership Forum Judy Smith 2012-07-30 00:00:00Z 0

Admiral John Nathman USN (Ret) Discusses Energy Dependence

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 25, 2012
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The US dependence on foreign countries for oil is more than a major economic issue and presents a national security risk, according to Retired Admiral John Nathman. He provided ideas to change driving habits and make other personal decisions to help conserve energy. He explained that citizens can and have made differences and increasing domestic production is only a small part of the answer.  Four decades of unstable world energy prices have shown that it takes far more than politics to improve the situation.
Admiral John Nathman USN (Ret) Discusses Energy Dependence Judy Smith 2012-07-26 00:00:00Z 0

New Leadership at Work

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 11, 2012
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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
Rotary Club President Mike Casey and Secretary Omar Saleh presiding over the first meeting in the new Rotary year.
New Leadership at Work Judy Smith 2012-07-12 00:00:00Z 0

Changing of the Guard

Posted by Judy Smith on Jun 27, 2012
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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos
In this photo, president Chris Fristad honors Hugh Forsythe as the Rotarian of the Year. The club thanked and acknowledged the many outstanding accomplishments of outgoing club president Chris Fristad, the board of directors, and committee chairs.  The gavel was handed over to incoming president Mike Casey, who along with the new board, was eloquently inducted by master of ceremony, Tom Gates. 

Jake and Ann Jacobson's talented grandson provided music during dinner. Members Charlie Bowden, Jewell Emswiller and Ron Rogos shared Rotary stories and inspiration. Fun was had by all on this special night, especially by Wiley Russell who drew the coveted card to win the jackpot.
Changing of the Guard Judy Smith 2012-06-28 00:00:00Z 0

Thank You 15th Annual Rehau Rotary Race Sponsors!

Posted by Judy Smith on May 16, 2012

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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos


The 15th Annual Rehau Rotary Resolution Race was a huge success. Generous sponsors were recognized by the Rotary Club of Leesburg during an appreciation dinner meeting on May 17th and charities were presented with the proceeds from the race.
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Rotary race coordinators extraordinaire Chuck and Carole Maloney with Christian Fabian, CEO of Rehau's North American operations. The 2012 race beneficiaries were: ARC of Loudoun, Blue Ridge Hospice, Capital Caring (formerly Capital Hospice), ECHO, Interfaith Relief, Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter, Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue, Loudoun Free Clinic, Loudoun Literacy Council, MJF Foundation for Parkinson's Research, and the Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Fund.
Thank You 15th Annual Rehau Rotary Race Sponsors! Judy Smith 2012-05-17 00:00:00Z 0

Marc Leepson - Historian, Author, Journalist

Posted by Judy Smith on May 16, 2012
The Rotary Club of Leesburg was honored to have Marc Leepson speak on May 24, 2012. Marc talked about the history of the US flag and referenced his book Flag: An American Biography.  Rotarians, Heritage Interact Club officers and club guests were entertained and informed by his presentation. Who knew it is unlikely that the Betsy Ross flag story is true? 

Marc is a well-known author of seven books including Lafayette, Saving Monticello, and Desperate Engagement, and the editor of the Websters’ New World Dictionary of the Vietnam War.  Marc is an experienced and captivating speaker who has addressed hundreds of audiences on the subjects of his books and on his other specialty, the Vietnam War and Vietnam veterans.  He has been interviewed many times on radio and television, including on The Today Show, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, All Things Considered, Talk of the Nation, To The Point, Morning Edition, The Diane Rehm Show, Irish Radio, and CBC (Canada).
Marc Leepson - Historian, Author, Journalist Judy Smith 2012-05-17 00:00:00Z 0

What do bridges, water and diabetes have in common?

Posted by George Webber on Apr 09, 2012
ImageThe Rotary Club of Leesburg's International Committee selected initiatives for water, bridges and diabetes as part of a three-year plan. The committee, chaired by George Webber, continues to lead the club in balancing a strong commitment to serve the local community with efforts to address global needs.

The intent is to develop, sponsor and conduct international service programs to advance international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons with an ideal of humanitarian service.  Three of the key programs that Club Rotarians are actively engaged in doing are:
  • Rotary Footbridges for Guatemala (pictured) - five bridges planned across ravines and valleys, working with the Rotary Clubs of Bailey's CrossRoads, Herndon, Springfield and Matthews
  • Clean Water Project in Zambia - five-year well drilling and water sanitation in remote Zambia; four new wells in 2011-12 + latrines, etc. (plus 11 completed); working with the “Gang of Five” (Dulles, Leesburg, Tysons, Vienna, Bailey’s CrossRoads)
  • Loudoun Free Clinic Diabetic Patient Mgmt Program - one year program to assist Clinic in development of software, hardware and network tools to automate diabetes patient maintenance management - long-term potential for national and international applications; District Simplified Grant; significant volunteer hours and in-kind donations by Leesburg Rotarians         
See the DOWNLOAD section on this home page for the full report.
What do bridges, water and diabetes have in common? George Webber 2012-04-10 00:00:00Z 0
Mike Robichaud - gourmet chef for the Rotary board in Tony's kitchen Judy Smith 2012-03-13 00:00:00Z 0

Mardi Gras Party

Posted by Judy Smith on Mar 07, 2012
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His Majesty the King Dean and his Queen, Grand Vizier, Krewe Captain, Court Jester, Assistant Jester, live music, bad jokes, green/gold/purple decor, masks, king cakes, costumes, beads and potent Hurricanes. How could this list be anything except the ingredients of an incredibly fun Rotary party!
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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Mardi Gras Party Judy Smith 2012-03-08 00:00:00Z 0

Preservationist and Author Presents Leesburg Then and Now

Posted by Judy Smith on Jan 18, 2012
 
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Annie Laurie McDonald took the audience on an entertaining and engaging journey through the history of Leesburg on Thursday evening. Attendees were glad to hear her firsthand and praised her well-regarded book "Leesburg Then and Now".
Preservationist and Author Presents Leesburg Then and Now Judy Smith 2012-01-19 00:00:00Z 0

Inspiration from Kathy Kupka

Posted by Judy Smith on Jan 11, 2012
ImageKathy Kupka, award winning portrait photographer, specializes in child and dog photography. Kathy inspired Rotarians with “But There IS Treatment”, her entertaining and informative presentation. She used images of her canine clients to chronicle her journey in life from single mom to professional photographer to cancer patient.
Inspiration from Kathy Kupka Judy Smith 2012-01-12 00:00:00Z 0

Second Annual Rotary Club of Leesburg Veterans Visit with Second Graders

Posted by Judy Smith on Nov 10, 2011

ImageVeterans in the Rotary Club of Leesburg visited the 2nd grade class at Leesburg Elementary School on 11/11/2011 for a Veterans' Day event.  Karen Hampton, a member of our Rotary family, expanded the event from last year, so the veterans visited ALL the 2nd graders. Participants found it heartwarming to see the interest that Karen's students had in the military.  Photo courtesy of Ron Rogus.

Second Annual Rotary Club of Leesburg Veterans Visit with Second Graders Judy Smith 2011-11-11 00:00:00Z 0

Claudia Saleh's presentation on NASA's Shuttle Launch

Posted by Omar Saleh on Aug 17, 2011
ImageRotarian Omar Saleh introduces the August 18th speaker, his wife Claudia Saleh.  She is a travel writer, photographer and excellent communicator, who toured the Kennedy Space Center during their prep for the final launch of Endeavor.
Claudia Saleh's presentation on NASA's Shuttle Launch Omar Saleh 2011-08-18 00:00:00Z 0

Virtual Visit to New Veterinary Hospital

Posted by Judy Smith on Jul 13, 2011

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Dr. Michael Strickland provided engaging animal stories and a virtual tour of the new Leesburg Veterinary Hospital (LVH). He paid tribute to his friend and mentor, Jack Howard, who was in the audience. In 1985, Dr. Strickland purchased the 40-year old practice from Dr. Howard, who is one of the club's honorary Rotarians. The comprehensive and state-of-the-art animal hospital will be opening this month. LVH is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Less then 18% of small animal veterinary facilities in North America are accredited AAHA members. 

Virtual Visit to New Veterinary Hospital Judy Smith 2011-07-14 00:00:00Z 0

What YOU missed last week

Posted by Barbara Stapel on Jun 29, 2011
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What you missed last week

Historian Tracy Rich provided the club with an in depth look back at the founding of the CIA.  A member of the CIA from 1986 and former senior analyst, Tracy wove an interesting tale of the CIA’s origin through its founding members beginning with the OSS.  Tracy relayed how the advent of the nuclear age and development of the communist party were the catalysts behind its development.

 

Bulletin Award:

Judy Smith is shown presenting an award to Christina Stover for her valuable contribution to the Club bulletin for the past year.

 

What YOU missed last week Barbara Stapel 2011-06-30 00:00:00Z 0

Stickey Wicket Croquet Tournament a Success

Posted by Barbara Stapel on Jun 04, 2011
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They came, they clubbed, they hacked and they conquered – all in the name of a worthy cause and the opportunity to graze through “internationally renowned kitchens” for an afternoon.  The occasional international incident (friendly fire) and temperature aside, the tournament was a resounding success, so much so that our esteemed President Tony has plans to expand the Polish team next year (yet again) and aspires to occupy the entire house facing the garage.  It should be recorded that Wiley Russell deployed very devious means to distract male members of opposing teams and thereby gain advantage for the German team. Aprons displaying the Double D Anatomy of frolicking frauleins were fastened to the otherwise perfect ladies of the German team and they were sent forth to fulfill Wiley’s plan to create mayhem.  After a glass or two of the potent liqueurs on hand, fact became increasingly blurred with fiction for some and many a second glance was directed at the “aprons”.  A big thank you to the referees (the bruises will heal in time) the team captains, chefs and all those who made this Stickey Wicket a major success.

Stickey Wicket Croquet Tournament a Success Barbara Stapel 2011-06-05 00:00:00Z 0

Urgent Need for O and B Blood Donors!!!

Posted by Ron Rogos on May 15, 2011

We received word from Inova Loudoun Hospital that they are urgent need of O and B donors.  Currently there is less than a 1 day supply of blood for the following blood types - O positive, O negative, B positive, and B Negative.  If your blood type is O or B please give serious consideration to giving blood.  They are hosting a blood drive this Thursday, May 19 at Inova Loudoun Hospital (Lansdowne) from Noon- 7 pm.  Please contact Robyn Kaplan at Robyn.Kaplan@inova.org if you have any questions or need more information.

More information about this drive and future drives can be found at this link - https://www.inovabloodsaves.org/index.cfm?group=op&es=true#dh_2545

Urgent Need for O and B Blood Donors!!! Ron Rogos 2011-05-16 00:00:00Z 0

Board of Supervisors Recognizes Outstanding Volunteers

Posted by Daniel Hampton on May 02, 2011

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Monday recognized the recipients of the Volunteer Loudoun 2011 Outstanding Volunteer Awards. The awards honor citizens and organizations throughout Loudoun County who donate time and service to their community. The awards were presented in a ceremony held during the Board’s general business meeting.   The Club and one of our members were among the receipients of this distinguished award.  Below are the excerpts from the news release that highlights the Club and Phil Rusciolelli.

Outstanding Volunteer Project – Rotary Club of Leesburg: The New Year’s Day Rotary Resolution Race has become an institution in Loudoun County.  It requires hundreds of hours of volunteer service by Rotary members. This year’s race resulted in $30,000 for Loudoun nonprofits serving children and their families.    

Outstanding Older Adult Volunteer – Philip Rusciolelli: Beneficiaries of Rusciolelli’s dedication to community service include the Special Olympics, patients at Veterans Administration hospitals, the Leesburg Rotary Club, The ARC of Loudoun, and the Sweats for Vets program.
 

Please see the Club Photo Links for pictures.

Board of Supervisors Recognizes Outstanding Volunteers Daniel Hampton 2011-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Leesburg Today - The Journal of Loudoun County - Horne And Companions Scale Mt. Kilimanjaro Tom Horne 2011-04-08 00:00:00Z 0
Rehau Rotary Resolution Race a Success!!! Daniel Hampton 2011-01-01 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Veterans visit 2nd Grade Classroom

Posted by Daniel Hampton on Nov 16, 2010
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As part of the celebration of Veteran's day, 5 Rotarians visited Karen Hampton's 2nd grade classroom to say thank you for the students' wonderful letter (see story below) and drawings they had sent to all Rotary Club of Leesburg Veterans.  Charlie Bowden, Chuck Reavis, Phil Daley, Melissa Philips, and Ron Rogos talked with the students about their military experiences and answered questions from the kids.  Thanks to Karen Hampton for inviting us!

Rotary Club of Leesburg Veterans visit 2nd Grade Classroom Daniel Hampton 2010-11-17 00:00:00Z 0

Kitty Saylor Dinner at the Gable's.....

Posted by Daniel Hampton on Oct 22, 2010
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Remember when Kitty Saylor won the croquet auction item "A dinner for your friends".....?   Well on Saturday nite, October 23, Nancy Davis, Dan Hampton and Kate Ammann, put on a great Italian dinner for Kitty and her friends, hosted at Jim Gable's beautiful home.  The waite staff consisted of tuxedoed, Tony Aiken, Mike Casey and Ron Rogos.   Good wine, Good food and Good Friends created a really great evening for all.  Main courses were:  Chicken Tetrazzini and Linguine with red clam sauce; dessert, Nancy's famous Banoffi Pie!!!!

Kitty Saylor Dinner at the Gable's..... Daniel Hampton 2010-10-23 00:00:00Z 0

Purcellville's Run for Research 5K

Posted by Dan Hampton on Mar 21, 2010
Love Running? Channel that love and passion for a great cause! The Purcellville's Run for Research is a Breast Cancer Fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen Organization. Please check out the flier in the downloads section.
Purcellville's Run for Research 5K Dan Hampton 2010-03-22 00:00:00Z 0
Heritage High School Purple Pinky Campaign Dan Hampton 2010-01-25 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Supports Haiti Relief Effort by $4360!!!!!

Posted by Ron Rogos on Jan 15, 2010
Dee Jonas, International Committee Chair, led a discussion about how to help the Haiti disaster relief effort. We collected $4360 in checks which will be sent to the Salvation Army Haiti relief effort,
Rotary Supports Haiti Relief Effort by $4360!!!!! Ron Rogos 2010-01-16 00:00:00Z 0

Doug Stump re-joins Rotary

Posted by Ron Rogos on Dec 17, 2009
Doug Stump, a former Rotarian from our Club, rejoined Dec 17th to a standing ovation from the members and guests present. Doug had been Rotarian of the Year during Phil Daley's presidential year.
Doug Stump re-joins Rotary Ron Rogos 2009-12-18 00:00:00Z 0

Randy Kelley and Omar Saleh inducted into Rotary

Posted by Phil Rusciolelli on Sep 25, 2009
Randy Kelley, CEO of Inova Loudoun Hospital, and Omar Saley, CEO of Expressive Media, were inducted into the Rotary Club of Leesburg by Tom Horne. WELCOME RANDY AND OMAR!
Randy Kelley and Omar Saleh inducted into Rotary Phil Rusciolelli 2009-09-26 00:00:00Z 0

Dave Struba becomes Rotarian

Posted by Ron Rogos on Sep 17, 2009
Dave Struba was inducted into the Rotary Club by membership chair, Joe Kelly at the Sep 17 meeting. Dave, a 10 year Leesburg resident, and very involved in civic causes, was sponsored by Ron Rogos. WELCOME DAVE
Dave Struba becomes Rotarian Ron Rogos 2009-09-18 00:00:00Z 0

Habitat for Humanity--great success

Posted by Ron Rogos on Sep 11, 2009
Several Rotarians helped on 9/11/09 at the Habitat for Humanity project in St. Louis, VA..Dean, Judy, Phil R., Mike, Nancy, Ron and Tracy installed doors, did trim work and met the family moving into the 5 bedroom home. A great day-Rotary and Habitat!
Habitat for Humanity--great success Ron Rogos 2009-09-12 00:00:00Z 0

Smokey Joe's Cafe a Success

Posted by Ron Rogos on Aug 29, 2009
Rotarians and their guests had a wonderful time at Franklin Park Arts Center listening to the music at "Smokey Joe's Cafe"...great music and fellowship!!!
Smokey Joe's Cafe a Success Ron Rogos 2009-08-30 00:00:00Z 0
Leesburg Grant for Nepal Approved!!!! Ron Rogos 2009-08-23 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Attend Keys Game

Posted by Ron Rogos on Aug 22, 2009
On August 20th 15 Rotarians and their guests attended the Frederick KEYS game and had a great time. We shared an evening of fun and without rain!! Unfortunately, the KEYS lost toward the end of the game, but we had a great time anyway.
Rotarians Attend Keys Game Ron Rogos 2009-08-23 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary History Distributed-New Historian Appointed

Posted by Ron Rogos on Jun 25, 2009
Nancy Davis has delivered the Rotary Club of Leesburg History-print and CD versions. Thanks Nancy. Steve Krisa has accepted the appointment as Club Historian to continue the process of documenting the good works of the Rotary Club of Leesburg.
Rotary History Distributed-New Historian Appointed Ron Rogos 2009-06-26 00:00:00Z 0
Cornwall St. Garden Tour Pictures Vic Polkowski 2009-05-14 00:00:00Z 0

Wreaths Across America Dec 13th

Posted by Judy Smith

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Remembrance wreaths will be placed on Arlington Cemetery graves by busloads of Rotary Club of Leesburg Rotarians, Heritage High School Interact Club members, families and friends.  With two truckloads assigned to our club (about 8,000 wreaths), we will be part of a huge effort to remember the people who served our country and protected our freedom.

Wreaths Across America Dec 13th Judy Smith 0

Oyster Roast

Posted by Judy Smith

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Kate and Fred Williams know how to throw a fresh oyster roast and make it quite an event. The dinner was auctioned at the Rotary Club of Leesburg's 2014 Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party. Lucky winning bidders enjoyed an evening of perfectly roasted oysters along with an array of other food, beverages and fun.

Oyster Roast Judy Smith 0

Rotary Veterans Visit Leesburg Elementary School

Posted by Judy Smith

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Photo courtesy or Ron Rogos

Teacher Karen Hampton welcomes Rotary Club of Leesburg veterans during the annual second grade class visit.

Rotarians included Jake Jacobson, Chris Fristad,Ron Rogos, Hugh Forsythe, Charlie Bowden, Chuck Reavis (club president) and Phil Rusciolelli

Rotary Veterans Visit Leesburg Elementary School Judy Smith 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg is Now on Facebook

Posted by Daniel Hampton
 The Rotary Club of Leesburg in now on Facebook.  Please encourage all of our members and people associated with our club (especially our Perry Winston Scholarship Recipients) join.  The content of the group is under development and we will continue to make that an interactive page.
Rotary Club of Leesburg is Now on Facebook Daniel Hampton 0

Heritage High Interact Club: Great Turnout at the Leesburg Halloween Parade!

Posted by Judy Smith

Heritage High Interact Club members turned out in ghoulish and funny styles representing their club and the Rotary Club of Leesburg at the Leesburg Halloween Parade on Oct 31st. The "Flintstone" crew pushed the Rotary Wheel through the entire parade route. They were joined by other Heritage Interact members who carried the Wreaths Across America Banner and signs about the Rotary Race on Jan 1, 2015.  Other costumed members gave out candy to children along the way.  George Webber and Tom Gates were in the cab of an antique red truck decked out with Rotary signs. The truck bed carried club members, friends, family and a payload of candy amongst the bales of hay.  Everyone who participated had a great time.  Special thanks to Dan and Rachel who were instrumental in organizing it.

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Heritage High Interact Club: Great Turnout at the Leesburg Halloween Parade! Judy Smith 0

Join the Leesburg Halloween Parade Oct 31st

Posted by Judy Smith

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The Heritage High Interact Club and the Rotary Club of Leesburg will be participating in the Leesburg Halloween Parade again this year - Friday, October 31st.

Admission to participate will be canned goods, dry goods, or paper products to be donated to Interfaith Relief. Rotary Club members should bring the items to the Thursday, Oct 30th club meeting. Dan Hampton is collecting them.

The parade route will start at Ida Lee and go all the way down King Street ending at Safeway/Roy Rogers.  Plan to meet 4:30-5:00 at Ida Lee to stage and set up.  The streets close around 5:30.  Parking is available at Ida Lee, or you can park at or near Virginia Village Shopping Center, Safeway or Rite Aid, where the parade ends.

Please come in costume!!

Join the Leesburg Halloween Parade Oct 31st Judy Smith 0

Serving Boulder Crest Retreat

Posted by Judy Smith

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Chefs Ernie and Dan

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Rotary meal prep team in action

Rotarians volunteered to prepare and serve meals to guests at the Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness in Bluemont, VA, on July 27th.  This inaugural service by Rotarians will be repeated on Sept 14th with a larger group of guests.

Boulder Crest was founded on the premise that "there is no greater duty as an American than to provide for those men and women who have given everything but their lives (mind, body and soul) to serve and protect us." The beautiful and serene 37-acre complex provides private accommodations for adults and children to enjoy recreational and healing activities and resources to support healing and emotional well-being.

Serving Boulder Crest Retreat Judy Smith 0

Kent Knowles Presents Falconry

Posted by Judy Smith

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Kent Knowles introduced falconry and two magnificence feathered friends to the members of the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  As an enthusiast and leader at the Raptor Conservancy of Virginia, Kent helped members gain an appreciation for these birds and their place in nature.

Kent Knowles Presents Falconry Judy Smith 0

New Members Michelle and Rich Casuccio Inducted

Posted by Judy Smith

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Pictured L to R:  Rich Casuccio, Joe Kelly, Jim Gable, Janice Fristad, Michelle Casuccio and Tom Horne

The Rotary Club of Leesburg inducted new members Michelle and Rich Casuccio on June 26, 2014. Members warmly welcomed Michelle, a former club member, and Rich a former Rotarian in the Sterling Club.  They were inducted by Tom Horne and are shown with their sponsors, Jim Gable and Joe Kelly, and the membership committee chair, Janice Fristad.

New Members Michelle and Rich Casuccio Inducted Judy Smith 0

Name this Continent

Posted by Judy Smith

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You are correct, if you said Antarctica!

Ron Rust with support from wife Judy Kozacik, took the Rotary Club of Leesburg members on a virtual tour of Antarctica at the June 19th club meeting.  Ron shared breath-taking photos from their trip, the history of other explorers such as Amundsen, Scott and Shackleton, personal stories, and travel information. The club appreciated the opportunity to hear first-hand details about the exciting trip.  Ron and Judy are owners of the Thomas Birkby House, a top-rated historic property and popular wedding/meeting site in Leesburg.

Name this Continent Judy Smith 0

Club Celebrates 5th Annual Sticky Wicket Success

Posted by Judy Smith

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Stanley Caulkins and Ron Rogos along with host Jim Gable award Stanley's Cup to the Karen Russell and her team ECHO/United Nations

The 5th Annual Sticky Wicket Croquet Tournament and Lawn Party was a success on May 17, 2014.  The weather and venue were perfect for the more than 100 participants who enjoyed the afternoon on the lawn of Jim Gable and Kelly's home.

The party had an international flavor. Colorful tents were filled with food, drinks, decor and costumed teams from around the world.  The day included croquet on three courts, an auction, the crowning of the Rotary Croquet Princess (our youth exchange student Gemy Chavez), and activities for youth and adults.  Heritage High School Interact students managed the children's activities and several participated in croquet.

Stanley's Cup was awarded to the winning team by Stanley Caulkins and Master of Ceremonies Ron Rogos. The winner was ECHO/United Nations, with Karen Russell as team captain. The Cup is named after Stanley Caulkins, who has the record for being in the Rotary Club the longest. The proceeds went to the Foundation to fund charities and other community and international needs.

Other awards went to:

  • Best croquet attire (female) - Gemy Chavez
  • Best croquet attire (male) - Mal Owen
  • Most alluring bonnet - Katie Mann
  • Best all-around food - Italy
  • Best team spirit - Poland
  • Most creative team decor - Bavaria

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Club Celebrates 5th Annual Sticky Wicket Success Judy Smith 0

Successful Networking Night in Leesburg

Posted by Judy Smith

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Palio's in Leesburg was the scene of a successful networking night hosted by the Rotary Club of Leesburg on May 14th. Rotary Assistant District Governor John Tattersall kicked off the night with a welcome to a full room in this historic downtown location.  Each non-Rotarian business professional shared his background and business.  Then representatives from six local Rotary Clubs described signature events that the clubs do to support the local community and charities.  The six clubs included Ashburn, Leesburg, Leesburg Daybreak, Gainesvillle-Haymarket, Purcellville,and Sterling. 

Drawings were done for valuable door prizes donated by Tarara Winery, Fabbioli's Cellars, Raspberry Falls Golf and Hunt Club and Highcliffe Clothiers.  Thanks to the donors and all who attended.

Check back on this website to learn about exciting networking opportunities to be hosted by other Rotary Clubs in Loudoun County this summer.

 

Successful Networking Night in Leesburg Judy Smith 0

Celebrating International Youth Exchange

Posted by Judy Smith

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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos

(Left to Right:  Minako Horani, Shunpei Horani, Gemita Chavez, Wanawsha Hawrami)

The April 3rd meeting was a special night focused on our exemplary international students who are talented, service-minded and destined for success. The club has a great track record of finding outstanding students to support and nurture, and it was clear that the Rotary youth participating in this evening were no exceptions.

The program opened with Carole Maloney's re-introduction and warm welcome to former exchange student Minako and her brother, Shunpei Horani.  (He arrived in traditional Japanese attire). Rotarians Carole and Chuck Maloney hosted Minako in 2004-05, and have remained in contact with her since she returned to Japan.  Minako is an architect living in Tokyo and was visiting the Maloneys and presenting a gift of art to her former high school in Leesburg. 

Judy Smith introduced Wanawsha Hawrami, a 2010 Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship recipient who provided an update on her graduation from Virginia Tech, new position, and upcoming graduate studies in an VT's Public and International Affairs Program. 

The main program focused on the club's current exchange program and student. Our club's Youth Exchange Counselor Pam Banks gave a snapshot of the history of the Rotary International Youth Exchange program.  The overview included a summary of the "behind the scenes work" required by the District and our club to organize and execute a successful program. She has served as an outstanding counselor for our current exchange student since August 2013.  She recognized host mother Lynde Scheffer and District Youth Exchange leader Phil Rusciolelli.

Pam introduced Gemita (Gemy) Chavez who shared her journey as our Youth Exchange Student from Ecuador with photos and stories. After giving a glimpse of her family and home in Ecuador, she highlighted her time in the US that  included outings with other students, RYLA Camp, travel with her host family, a special birthday party, a funny picture with Phil and much more.  She received a standing ovation from club members who were glad to hear how well things are going.

 

Celebrating International Youth Exchange Judy Smith 0

Braving the Cold to Remove Arlington Wreaths

Posted by Judy Smith

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Thank you, Ron, Katie, Keith, Clay, Pam, Leader Chuck, Hugh and Bob!

Rotarians and friends braved the cold on Saturday, Jan 25th, to remove the wreaths laid on graves to honor soldiers buried in Arlington Cemetery. They joined hundreds who enthusiastically and reverently picked up the wreaths placed on the graves in early December.  Wreaths Across America is well-supported by the Rotary Club of Leesburg and the Heritage High School Interact Club each year. 

Braving the Cold to Remove Arlington Wreaths Judy Smith 0

January 16th Speaker: Prescott Engle

Posted by Valerie Beaudoin
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This week, the Rotary Club of Leesburg has the great privilege of having Prescott Engle as our guest speaker.  He will talk about adventures with the Army 7th Special Forces (Airborne). Please join us Thursday January 16th to learn more about him. If you are not a Rotarian, please contact jsmith@shbajo.com to join us.  We welcome guests and prospective members.

January 16th Speaker: Prescott Engle Valerie Beaudoin 0
Resolution Race Day was Big Success! Judy Smith 0

Rotary Club Welcomes Page Moffett

Posted by Judy Smith

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Page Moffett was inducted into the Rotary Club of Leesburg on Dec. 5, 2013.  The induction included a heartfelt overview of the value and obligations of being a Rotarian by Tom Horne, followed by comments by Page's sponsor Fred Williams and Membership Chair Janice Fristad.   Page's wife Susan placed the Rotary pin in his lapel, and Page expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve as a Rotarian. President Judy Smith led the club in warmly welcoming the newest member.

Rotary Club Welcomes Page Moffett Judy Smith 0

Georgetown Law Professor, Author, and National Security/Counter-terrorism Expert Laura Donohue to Speak in Leesburg

Posted by Judy Smith

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 The Rotary Club of Leesburg will host a highly sought-after, guest speaker, whom we are fortunate to lure to Leesburg on Thursday evening, Dec 5th at 6:30 pm.  Georgetown Professor Laura Donohue is an expert, author, and commentator on national security and counterterrorism.

She is a professor of law at Georgetown and the Director of Georgetown’s Center on National Security and the Law..  Her most recent book is The Cost of Counterterrorism: Power, Politics, and Liberty (Cambridge University Press).

Her many speaking engagements range from Google's international headquarters to a bipartisan security think tank of our nation's leaders. She is currently writing on drones, the War Powers Resolution, and emerging technologies. Her credentials include prestigious roles at Harvard and Stanford....and this list is only a small glimpse into this woman's incredible resume. 

Non-Rotarians can register to attend this meeting at River Creek Country Club by contacting us at jsmith@shbajo.com.

Georgetown Law Professor, Author, and National Security/Counter-terrorism Expert Laura Donohue to Speak in Leesburg Judy Smith 0
Rotary Meeting Cancelled Nov 21, 2013 Judy Smith 0

Leesburg Halloween Parade 2013

Posted by Valerie Beaudoin

The Interact and Rotary clubs had a great time distributing candies at the Leesburg Halloween Parade!

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Leesburg Halloween Parade 2013 Valerie Beaudoin 0
Road Rally Pictures Valerie Beaudoin 0

Club Assembly #1

Posted by Valerie Beaudoin

Tonight was our first Club Assembly of 2013-14. 

Each of the Committee chair gave a report of their activity. Lots going on! Thanks to Chuck Maloney we learned how judge Horne took decisions in his court room. What did you learn tonight? Following the meeting, a survey will be available for each member to give their opinion on our club, and suggest ways to improve it. Your opinion matter, please make sure you take a few minutes to answer it.

In honor on Hugh's return from vacation, we had requested chicken for tonight's dinner! Chicken over rice with asparagus with brownie and ice cream for dessert.

Beef: 2 Chicken: 1

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Club Assembly #1 Valerie Beaudoin 0

Many pirates missing tonight

Posted by Valerie Beaudoin

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Scott Mills, and Dee Jonas

As described by our returning newly wed secretary, Ben Saul, the attendance tonight was "fair". Nevertheless, we had a great speaker, Scott Mills, talking about all the wonderful projects the Rotary Foundation supports. Our donations are what make these projects possible. Our goal this year should be to have each member of our club put service above self, and donate $100. Imagine all the joy we could spread! To know more about the Foundation, or to contribute, visit the Rotary International website at https://www.rotary.org/en/give

Tonight's dinner was Chuck roast (or what it groundhog roast?!?), succotash, rice and kale, with vanilla ice cream and berries for dessert.

 

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Many pirates missing tonight Valerie Beaudoin 0
What you missed at Rotary on September 12th! Valerie Beaudoin 0

Salamander Resort President Visits Rotary

Posted by Judy Smith

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Photo courtesy of Ron Rogos

Former Rotary scholarship winner Heidi Moats won the prize contributed by Salamander Hotels and Resorts President Prem Devadas and Trey Matheu.  An update was provided about their exciting, world class resort about to open in Middleburg, VA.

Salamander Resort President Visits Rotary Judy Smith 0
Pam Banks wins the 50/50 jackpot Aug 1st Judy Smith 0

180 Meals Prepared to Feed the Hungry

Posted by Ron Rogos

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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos

Once again, the crack Rotary Club of Leesburg cookers, choppers, and cleaner-upers, made 180 meals at Deli South in almost record time.  The following Rotarians helped in the Grace 2 Go meal prep effort:  Ben Saul (and Lindsey), Fred Williams, Bob Hauck, Pam Banks, Dave Struba, Ron Rogos, Nancy Davis, Chuck Reavis, Tom Gates, and Hugh Forsythe. What a great effort!!!  Rotarians and firiends had lots of enjoyable fellowship while doing good work for our community.  The next Grace 2 Go will be Sunday, October 20th.

180 Meals Prepared to Feed the Hungry Ron Rogos 0

October 6, 2013 - ROAD RALLY - SIGN UP NOW!

Posted by Hugh Forsythe

SIGN UP NOW FOR ROAD RALLY!!!

Email: LeesburgRotaryRoadRally@gmail.com

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Checking-in for the Road Rally Oct 14, 2012

Rotarians, families, friends and anyone interested in a good time should sign up for the Sunday, October 6, 2013, annual Rotary Road Rally. 

Launch Time:  1:00 pm
Starting Site: Loudoun County High School, Dry Mill Road, Leesburg
End Site: Hidden Brook Winery 

Licensed drivers and passengers in any type of car are welcome to participate. You will learn unusual and little known facts about the rich history of the places visited. Proceeds will go to charities that benefit the local community. 

The cost is $35 per person preregistered and $40 the day of the event.  Checks, cash and credit cards (MasterCard, Visa) will be accepted the day of the event.

We are in for an exciting afternoon that includes a driving tour of historic sites on a beautiful autumn day in Virginia- followed by happy hour and food. Please send an email to the address shown to get more information or to preregister.

SIGN UP NOW FOR ROAD RALLY!!!

Email: LeesburgRotaryRoadRally@gmail.com

October 6, 2013 - ROAD RALLY - SIGN UP NOW! Hugh Forsythe 0

New Member Celebration

Posted by Judy Smith

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President Mike Casey, Membership Chair Janice Fristad, host John Marsh and former District Governor Charlie Bowden shared words of wisdom and praise for Rotary and new members at a recent celebration.  John Marsh hosted the party at his lovely home on his family farm in Purcellville.  A photo album is included on this website thanks to Chris Fristad's photography.

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New Member Celebration Judy Smith 0
Winchester Rotarians Event for Wounded Warriors Ron Rogos 0

What You Missed February 7, 2013

Posted by Mike Casey

All – another great meeting!

Attendance was very good (above 75%), particularly with the number of snow birds who are enjoying much warmer weather than we are here.

Tom Horne took the opportunity to remind us all who won the Super Bowl – and it was a great game!

Carolyn Casey drew a 7 of diamonds, becoming the second raffle winner in the last three months.

Bob Noe reported that the Club will be hearing the Loudoun County student who won our New Generations Speech Contest later this month and that Club Member involvement was outstanding – led by Jaro Vitazka, Dee Jonas, Katie Mann and Ben Saul.

And, Club Secretary Omar Saleh told us that Henry Firestone was once a member of the Rotary Club of Akron, Ohio.

Speaker Amy Owen, Executive Director of the Piedmont Community Foundation and a Past President of The Rotary Club of Charles Town, West Virginia, gave a very well received presentation on the value of community foundations (there are more than 700 of them across the country) and how they serve as a catalyst, conduit and steward for charitable giving in meeting the every changing needs of a community.  Focusing on Loudoun and Fauquier Counties, the Piedmont Community Foundation serves as a positive force to join donors and community in a collective power dedicated to the growth of a permanent endowment as the most effective means to meet the needs of the community now and in the future.

A reminder – there will be no Club meeting next Thursday evening.  You are on your own for February 14 - Happy Valentine’s Day!

Yours in Rotary Service

Mike Casey, President

What You Missed February 7, 2013 Mike Casey 0

Rotary Club of Leesburg Celebrates 85th Anniversary

Posted by Judy Smith
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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos and Jewell Emswiller
The club's contributions to international and local causes during the past 85 years are almost beyond comprehension. Members and the Rotary "family" celebrated with a night of great food, music, pictures and amazing stories. Tales ranged from famous Rotarians such as George Marshall, train rides to Chicago, clubs launched in Siberia, clinics in Peru, hundreds of meals for Loudoun's needy, remembrances of Marshall Philpitt and Henry Finch and much more.  With Judge Tom Horne as the master of ceremonies, Mike Casey as the presiding president, and Ernie, Ron and others in the background orchestrating the event, it was a night to remember. 
Rotary Club of Leesburg Celebrates 85th Anniversary Judy Smith 0
Rehau Rotary Resolution Race January 1, 2013 Judy Smith 0

Join The Rotary Club of Leesburg for a Road Rally October 14, 2012

Posted by Judy Smith
Drive through beautiful historic Loudoun County as the fall colors change. Find your clues along the way as you navigate to some of history’s outstanding locations. Win cash prizes!  All cars and trucks welcome. Go to the Download section of this page to view the flyer.

October 14, 2012
1:00 p.m.— Rally Launch from Leesburg
Safeway Parking Lot, S. King St.


Rotary Club of Leesburg Rally will visit 10 sites in beautiful Loudoun County on a 65 mile course. As you map out your course, you must visit each of the sites where you will be given a CLUE to answer. A Wild Card will be given at one site to build your poker hand.
1st Prize
$250
Best Poker Hand
Cards will be given at the barbeque.
$250
Oldest Car
$100

Fee for Road Rally &
Post-Rally Party
$50 Per Car
$20 Barbeque Only
For registration info, call (703) 283-7152
or email nancydavis09@gmail.com
Join The Rotary Club of Leesburg for a Road Rally October 14, 2012 Judy Smith 0

Highly respected hero Ken Falke to talk about Boulder Crest Retreat for Wounded Warriors

Posted by Judy Smith
Ken Fallke is Founder and Chair of the Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation. He is a 21-year combat veteran of the US Navy and a respected expert in the area of Bomb Disposal and Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD).

Ken is developing Boulder Crest Retreat for Wounded Warriors. This 37 acre rural retreat in nearby Bluemont will be serving Ken's fellow disabled veterans and their families.  With so many injuries incurred in Iraq and Afghanistan, the veterans’ physical and emotional disabilities will require care that overstretches the military’s medical capabilities and the U.S. government budgets for the foreseeable future.  This restorative and restful refuge to be built in our region is intended to make a difference in their lives. www.bouldercrestretreat.org
Highly respected hero Ken Falke to talk about Boulder Crest Retreat for Wounded Warriors Judy Smith 0

2012 Scholarships Awarded to Ryan and Reyes

Posted by Judy Smith
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Photos courtesy of Ron Rogos
Outstanding students Glelia Reyes and Ryan Taylor were awarded Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarships on June 7th.  Many impressive applicants from area high schools competed for two $10,000 college scholarships. The students were joined at the meeting by prior year recipients Heidi Moats and Wanawsha Hawrami, who reside in the area. Almost sixty students have received the scholarships since the Fund was established in 1985 by several prominent local area citizens and Rotarians, including the late Perry Winston, a Leesburg banker.
2012 Scholarships Awarded to Ryan and Reyes Judy Smith 0

Welcome New Members!

Posted by Judy Smith
Club President Chris Fristad is proud to announce that three outstanding Loudoun County professionals, Ben Saul, Robert Sharp and Katie Mann, were inducted as new members recently. Their sponsors are Melissa Phillips (Ben), Nancy Davis (Robert) and Dario Campolattaro (Katie).
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Welcome New Members! Judy Smith 0
Marshall Philpitt - True American Hero, Dedicated Rotarian and Friend Judy Smith 0

Marshall Philpitt Remembered

Posted by Judy Smith

ImageJudy and Dave Williams, daughter and son-in-law, of Marshall Philpitt, joined the club for a tribute to our military hero and friend. Judy provided a video of his life, shared stories and talked about how her father treasured all things Rotary.
Marshall Philpitt Remembered Judy Smith 0

Rotary Pride - Scholarship recipient Heidi Moats

Posted by Judy Smith
Heidi Moats, 2007 recipient of the Rotary Club of Leesburg Perry Winston Scholarship Fund, gave an engaging talk about the NTSB and her continued passion for aeronautics.  She graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in FL and returned to Leesburg to pursue her career.
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Heidi Moats
Rotary Pride - Scholarship recipient Heidi Moats Judy Smith 0

Annual New Year's Day Race

Posted by Carole Maloney

A successful annual Rehau Rotary Resolution Race was held on Sunday, January 1, 2012, in Leesburg, VA. The event included both a 10K race and a 4K fun run/walk through the rolling hills of the historic 1,000 acre Morven Park Estate. Runners, friends & family enjoyed the beautiful weather and returned to the gym for live music, tasty food and drinks, awards and lots of random prizes. All proceeds will go to local charities. For more information, check out the Race on Facebook.

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 Matt Maline of Oak Hill, VA, was the fastest runner.

Annual New Year's Day Race Carole Maloney 0

Horseback Ride

Posted by Judy Smith
Rotary Club of Leesburg members and families had a great time riding the trails on a beautiful autumn day. The horseback ride was followed by mouth-watering grub. Thanks to Tammy and Dean Worcester who organized this fun event that has become an annual club tradition. Click on "more' to see moreImage photos.
Horseback Ride Judy Smith 0

In Recognition of Veterans' Day

Posted by Judy Smith
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Special recognition was paid to our WWII veterans: Jack Howard, Andy Cumbie, Stanley Caulkins and the late Marshall Philpitt.  Stanley Caulkins pictured here. The Veterans' Day program included guest speaker, Staff Sergeant Cory Zemany. He is the supply NCO for Charlie Company 3rd Battalion 116nth Infantry at the Virginia National Guard Armory, Leesburg. SSG Zemany shared stories about his illustrious military career that has spanned more than two decades, having served in Panama, Honduras, Iraq, Afghanistan and Cuba GTMO.  He received numerous awards including he Army Commendation and Achievement Medals multiple times and awards for National Defense, the Global War on Terrorism, the Armed Forces Reserve, and the Iraq Campaign medals. On February 15, 2008, SSG Zemany was wounded in Tikrit, Iraq.
In Recognition of Veterans' Day Judy Smith 0

Remembering Henry Finch

Posted by Judy Smith

ImageHenry L. Finch, Jr., passed away at the age of 71 on Dec 9, 2011 and is greatly missed.  He retired from Freedom Bank of Va., Fairfax, VA, in Dec. 2010.

He was an active member of our Rotary Club, serving as club president in 2003, and as a member of the current board of directors.  Chuck Maloney reminisced that Henry held the record for getting sponsorships for the annual Rehau Rotary Resolution Race.

Our deepest sympathy goes to his wonderful wife of 48 years, Barbara, and their two daughters, Susan Michelle Finch of San Diego, CA; and Elizabeth Finch Parker of Newport, RI.

Remembering Henry Finch Judy Smith 0

Remembering Marshall S. Philpitt, Jr.

Posted by Judy Smith
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We will miss Marshall Philpitt, who passed away on Nov 9th, at the age of 89. The photo is of Marshall's name badge and empty seat at the Nov 10th meeting- photo courtesy of Ron Rogus.

He was a decorated World War II US Air Force pilot, long-time Rotarian, respected business man and loving husband/father.  He is survived by two daughters, Judy Williams (David E.) of Round Hill, VA and Joan Marsengill (Michael E.) of Boca Raton, FL, two siblings, grandchildren, great grandchildren and other family.

Marshall joined Rotary in 1945 and was active at both the Miami Rotary club, including serving as president, and the Rotary Club of Leesburg. His son-in-law said it so well, "Rotary was one of Marshall's true loves".

Marshall was remembered and honored at numerous Veteran's Day celebrations. Seventeen members of his Rotary Club of Leesburg family joined Marshall's family and other friends to celebrate his life at the Purcellville Baptist Church on Sunday, where Phil Rusciolelli led VFW members in saluting and honoring their fellow veteran.

Interment services will be held with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium, on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 11 am.

Remembering Marshall S. Philpitt, Jr. Judy Smith 0
The Rotary Club of Leesburg's Perry Winston Scholarship Forms Now Available Ernie Carnevale 0

The Shaggy Dog Returns to the Club - Don't Miss our Oct 14 Meeting!!!

Posted by Ron Rogos

The tension, anticipation, and excitement about Oct 14 continues to mount in the Club. The program is Joe and Wiley + a few others weaving a shaggy dog story about Ernie and Bob Noe traveling to Siberia on what appears to a mission of mercy. But waiting around every corner is excitement and twists in the story. Don't miss it!!!!!!

The Shaggy Dog Returns to the Club - Don't Miss our Oct 14 Meeting!!! Ron Rogos 0

Cornwall Street Garden Tour Raffle Winner!!!

Posted by Judy Smith

Congratulations to the winner of our Cornwall Street Garden Tour drawing.  Sharon Slayton of Round Hill, VA, won a gift certificate from Caulkins Jewelers and Gifts in historic downtown Leesburg.

 

Sharon said, "As always, I love the Leesburg garden show.  I am an avid gardener and enjoy finding new plants and seeing new ideas.  This year I especially liked the home garden tours."

 

Thanks to the hundreds for people who toured the gardens and supported our Rotary Club's  Perry Winston Scholarship Fund.

Cornwall Street Garden Tour Raffle Winner!!! Judy Smith 0
Rotary Garden Tour Featured in Leesburg Today Dan Hampton 0

Roster and Club Member Photos

Posted by Ron Rogos

The Photo Roster has 'almost' been completed.  Only two members to go-Ellen and Tom Shinal.....Members are encouraged to review their roster information and update any changes that need to be made.  Thanks for all  your cooperation in getting this improvement to our membership listing completed.

RON

Roster and Club Member Photos Ron Rogos 0

Club History Completed

Posted by Ron Rogos
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Club History Completed...Jake and History Crew have updated the Rotary Club of Leesburg History.....will be presented at Charter Night
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Horseback Riding at Wagon Wheel Ranch

Posted by Ron Rogos
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We had a great time on a trail ride at Wagon Wheel Ranch near Winchester.  Judy, Phil R., Nancy, Leslie, Dean, and Ron + guests enjoyed the scenery and fine weather from horseback.  All coordinated by Tammy and Dean Worcester.
Horseback Riding at Wagon Wheel Ranch Ron Rogos 0

Grace to Go-Food Success

Posted by Ron Rogos
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24 of us worked Sunday with the St. James "Grace to Go" food prep program and we prepared 200 meals that were distributed Monday evening to the disadvantaged.  We had a great time, did alot of very worthwhile work for our community....and all in the 2 hours they said it would take!!!..... photos of this effort can be seen by clicking on the 'photo links' button on the left of the home page. 
Grace to Go-Food Success Ron Rogos 0

Randy Kelley and Omar Saleh New Members

Posted by Ron Rogos
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Randy Kelley, CEO of Inova Loudoun Hospital and Omar Saleh, CEO of Expressive Media were inducted into the Rotary Club of Leesburg.  Both new members brought their families along too.  Randy was a former Rotarian and Omar's father had been a long term Rotarian in PA.  Tom Horne presided over the induction ceremony and gave a heartfelt perspective on the honor of being a Rotarian.  WELCOME OMAR AND RANDY>
Randy Kelley and Omar Saleh New Members Ron Rogos 0

Help for Tom Shinal

Posted by Ron Rogos
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Rotarians pitched in to help a fellow Rotarian, Tom Shinal, with the clean up of his yard and porch.  Steve Krisa, Nancy Davis, Phil Daley, Phil Rusciolelli, Jake Jacobson, Tom Gates, and Ron Rogos spent the morning recently with Tom at his Waterford home, mowing, raking, window washing, powerwashing decks, cleaning up trash, and generally helping Tom get his place in shape.
Help for Tom Shinal Ron Rogos 0

Garden Party a Success

Posted by Ron Rogos
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The Garden Party and Silent Auction held at Wiley and Teck's home was a smashing success.  The 40 people who attended on a warm Fall night enjoyed good food and wine + participated actively in the silent auction.  THANKS to those that donated items to the auction to benefit the Perry Winston Scholarship Fund and the Rotary Good Works Fund. Results will be posted after a full accounting is done on the event.
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Habitat for Humanity

Posted by Ron Rogos
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7 of us helped build the Habitat for Humanity-Loudoun home in St. Louis on 9/11.  The family of 8 to move in during November worked with Dean, Judy, Nancy, Phil R., Mike, Ron and Tracy on hanging doors, installing trim, caulking, and putting on door hardware....a wonderful community service event......
Habitat for Humanity Ron Rogos 0

Judy Smith-Rotarian of the Year

Posted by Ron Rogos
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Judy Smith was honored as the Rotarian of the Year by immediate past-president Su Webb.  Judy was active in planning the Cornwall Street Garden walk, membership chair and always there when needed on many other projects.   CONGRATULATIONS JUDY!
Judy Smith-Rotarian of the Year Ron Rogos 0

Child Life Toy Program

Posted by Dan Hampton

For the months of August & September the local Rotary clubs collected toys and games for the Inova Loudoun Hospital Child Life Program.  This program allows the INOVA staff to create a child friendly environment of healing, helping children of all ages cope with their Inova visits, making their stay feel less like a hospital and more like home.  There is a long list of items needed that have be divided up among the clubs – Our club was charged with a tough list which we completed!!!  Great Job All Around!


Click the more... link below for the complete list of what we accomplished.

Child Life Toy Program Dan Hampton 0

Rotary Field Trips for FUN

Posted by Ron Rogos
Planning is moving along for our two upcoming Club Service activities: 

The August 20th trip to see the Frederick KEYS play baseball--around 30 people are going to attend this fun event --Carole Maloney, Club Service Chair is coordinating.  This will be in lieu of the regular Thursday nite Rotary meeting.

The August 28th trip to Franklin Park to see the play "Smokey Joe's Cafe" currently has 27 people in attendance.  This Friday nite event will involve dinner at Magnolia's in Purcellville and then the performance at the Franklin Park Performing Arts Center.  Jim York is coordinating and says to be at Magnolia's at 5:30pm for dinner so we can be on our way in time to see the show at 7:30pm.

COME AND HAVE FUN WITH YOUR ROTARIAN FRIENDS!!!!!!
Rotary Field Trips for FUN Ron Rogos 0

Reiner and Anna win week in Hilton Head!!!

Posted by Judy Smith
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The Rotary Club of Leesburg held its raffle of a week at a 3-bedroom villa at Sea Pines Plantation on Hilton Head Island, SC.  Reiner Leifhelm had the winning ticket!!!  Proceeds from the raffle benefit the Perry Winston Scholarship Fund. The villa was a generous donation by Chuck and Judy Reavis.
Reiner and Anna win week in Hilton Head!!! Judy Smith 0

Installation of New Officers

Posted by Ron Rogos
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The installation ceremony for new 2009-2010 Officers and Directors was held June 25th.  MC Jake Jacobson directed the program and PDG Charlie Bowden administered the oath to the incoming president, Ron Rogos and the Board of Directors.
Installation of New Officers Ron Rogos 0
Strange Man in Disguise Vic Polkowski 0

Rotarians Do Road Cleanup

Posted by Ron Rogos
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Saturday, May 16, a large group of Rotarians did the annual Spring Road Clean up on Sycolin Road.........coffee and Dunkin' Donuts were the fuel.....Steve Krisa was the leader.
Rotarians Do Road Cleanup Ron Rogos 0

District Training Seminar

Posted by Vic Polkowski
Tony Aiken, Judy Smith, Jim York, Chuck Reavis, Leslie Warren and Ron Rogos attended the May 9th Rotary District Training seminar.  Incoming Rotary Board and Committee Chairs are...
District Training Seminar Vic Polkowski 0
Download the Weekly Club Bulletin Vic Polkowski 0
Membership Information Janice Fristad 0
International Committee Update Vic Polkowski 0