Friends of the Blue Ridge Mountains (FBRM) presented the 2016 "Friend of the Mountain Award" to three citizen activists at their Annual Meeting, November 13, 2016 at the Barns of Rose Hill in Berryville, Virginia.

The honorees included: representatives of successful grassroots movements to halt construction of both a large brewery venue in rural Bluemont and a large above-ground facility on top of the Short Hill Mountain near Lovettsville.

Protecting Bluemont

Jean Baderschneider and Kim Rapp learned of the plan to open a large beer drinking and entertainment venue in the middle of a residential neighborhood on an unpaved rural road in Bluemont. It was seemingly a done-deal, as the brewery had the legal authority to locate there with the proper permits under current zoning. Jean and Kim reached out to neighbors, and like-minded citizens and organizations—including FBRM. Through their efforts a team of people deeply passionate about the value of the Blue Ridge and its foothills was assembled and moved into action. Jean and Kim organized community meetings with lawmakers and encouraged contact with elected officials, while underwriting the legal costs of representation. They, and everyone involved, prevented what the FBR termed 'irreparable harm to the environment and the tranquility of the community.'

Jean and Kim continue their commitment to preserving what makes Western Loudoun special by advocating for noise abatement measures and changes to the Comprehensive Plan, which will influence area's future.

Protecting Short Hill Mountain

Sam Kroiz, a mild mannered goat herder, entrepreneur at George's Mill Dairy, and musician, became an energized activist for conservation when AT&T proposed constructing a very large building on top of the Short Hill Mountain. Sam promoted opposition to this plan by setting up meetings with staff of the Loudoun County Planning Department, convening Lovettsville area citizens who were also outraged by this proposal, and by public appearances before the Loudoun Board Of Supervisors. He invited BOS Chair Phyllis Randall to visit the goat farm so she could see for herself how visible and out of place the building would be, even miles away.

Hearing many opponents of the plan at board meetings thank the Supervisors for their attention to the proposal, Chairman Randall noted, "...indeed, the Board thanks the citizens of the County for their time and attention, and the fact that they showed how much they care about the county." AT&T ultimately withdrew the planned construction.

Jean, Kim and Sam would insist the "Friend of the Mountain Award" represents the cumulative efforts of many, but they are especially recognized for providing leadership in keeping a watchful eye and taking an active role in preserving this unique mountain environment.