Loudoun Now for Feb. 16, 2017 by Loudoun Now

LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

[ Vol. 2, No. 15 ]

[ loudounnow.com ]

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017 ]

Spirits are high at Catoctin Creek

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Construction continues on the overpass at the intersection of Belmont Ridge Road and Rt. 7, one of several large projects that are keeping contractors busy in Loudoun.

Is Building Boom Putting a Squeeze on Loudoun? BY RENSS GREENE

huge infusion of transportation construction cash and projects in Northern Virginia in the past several years could have an unintended consequence for Loudoun: more difficulty building big projects like roads and bridges. In 2013, the state passed legislation

that began pouring hundreds of millions of dollars of funding into transportation in Northern Virginia. At the same time, Loudoun launched into an ambitious locally funded road building plan after years without any completed roads by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Some county leaders worry that has resulted in more construction projects than contractors to build them, pushing

up project costs. “This new infusion of funding for public projects, coupled with robust private sector development activities in NOVA is, in my opinion, saturating the construction market based on the number of contractors in the area,” said Loudoun Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure Director Joe Kroboth. The county has seen fewer contractors bidding on county construction projects,

and some bids are coming in above the county’s cost projections. Melissa Tello, Loudoun County’s construction program manager, said those problems tend to be worst in certain niches. “Our parks are definitely one of those areas where we don’t see as many bidders,” Tello said. “Certainly, traffic sigCONSTRUCTION BOOM >> 38

Metro Budget Puts Loudoun on the Hook for Millions More BY RENSS GREENE New estimates show Loudoun’s payments to Metro could be as much as $27.9 million higher, double what was expected in the first year—with some asterisks. Metro’s proposed fiscal year 2018 budget raised a lot of eyebrows around the DC region by doubling or tripling some costs to the jurisdictions that pay into the

transit system, and now Loudoun is grappling with its own obligation doubling in cost and a shortfall of millions of dollars. Those numbers come with caveats. For example, they include a bus service payment, which Loudoun will not make to WMATA because it will continue to provide its own bus service instead of using Metro buses. County finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau

(R-Dulles) estimated those payments account for about half of the projected operating costs and a quarter of capital costs. As part of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority compact, Loudoun, like every other participating locality, must contribute operating and capital costs based on its ridership and stations. The county’s fiscal planning is based on projected costs from before

Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld unveiled what he called the Reality Check Budget Plan. That budget shows capital costs rising dramatically to address up to Metro’s longstanding maintenance and safety concerns. Some localities, like Alexandria and Fairfax County, are seeing their proMETRO >> 25

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Sterling man sentenced for supporting terrorists

Hundreds of students ‘walk out’ in support of immigrants

Legislation Would Ensure Dual Enrollment Courses Pay Off BY DANIELLE NADLER

growing number of Loudoun County students are leaving high school with much more than a secondary school diploma. They’re leaving with as much as a year’s worth of college credit under their belt. About 3,500 of the county’s public school students are signed up for at least one dual enrollment course this year. That means those students are taking free college-level classes on their high school campus, taught by a Loudoun County Public School teacher who’s been certified as an adjunct professor. In general, students who do well in those classes should expect to satisfy required general education courses at their college or university of choice. But some have been surprised to find out long after they’ve completed the coursework that their credits are not transferable to some of the state’s top schools.

Community college leaders, the biggest providers of dual enrollment in Virginia, and Loudoun public school leaders want a more transparent program, to encourage more high school students to enroll in the free classes and to see them get the full advantage of the program designed to save them thousands of dollars in tuition. Legislation is working its way through the General Assembly that aims to require Virginia colleges and universities to agree on one standard for dual enrollment courses or, at the very least, tell high school students up front whether their college or university will accept the course they’re considering taking. Loudoun County Del. Thomas “Tag” Greason (R-32), who sits on the House Education Committee, drafted the House version of the bill after he kept hearing from parents who were surprised and disappointed to find out their children’s dual enrollment credits were rejected by their university. “I talked to all the universities and

said hey, that’s not helpful for the consumer. What can we do to improve this?” Greason said. Last week, the House and Senate versions of the bill passed unanimously, and Greason expects the governor to support it. The delegate said the goal is to make the work done by the school systems to offer dual enrollment— which includes paying for their teachers to be certified professors—as well as the work of the students, worth it. Beth Doyle, who oversees Loudoun County Public Schools’ dual enrollment programs, said this change would be huge for Loudoun. The school system enrolls more students in dual enrollment courses than any other Northern Virginia school division, even more than Fairfax County, the state’s largest school system. Enrollment in Loudoun in those courses has more than doubled in the past two years, since the Northern Virginia Community College, the DUAL ENROLLMENT >> 5

Wife of Embattled Principal: ‘It Has All Been Worth It’ BY DANIELLE NADLER

BREWER >> 24

INDEX Loudoun Gov..................... 6 Leesburg......................... 10 Public Safety................... 12 Education........................ 14 Our Towns....................... 18 Biz.................................. 22 LoCo Living..................... 26 Obituaries....................... 32 Classifieds...................... 33 Opinion........................... 36

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past two months. As educators, it’s reminded her and Principal Brewer that the sometimes difficult work they do each day can leave lifelong impacts. “It’s been an amazing reminder that it’s so worth it to invest in students’ lives every day,” she said in an interview after the meeting. Superintendent Eric Williams has recommended Principal Brewer be fired, and the principal has appealed the decision. Rachel Brewer confirmed that her husband will, on Feb. 22 and 23, go before a hearing officer who will review the information and make his or her own recommendation to the

Rachel Brewer could barely be seen Tuesday night amid the sea of parents, students and educators who credit her husband with shepherding thousands of teens through their most difficult years. “Tell Dr. Brewer we’re here for him,” one parent whispered in her ear. Since her husband, Dominion High School Principal John Brewer, was placed on leave in early December, Rachel Brewer has sat quietly in the audience of Loudoun County School Board meetings. She watched and listened as hundreds from the community lined up to share story after story of

Principal Brewer’s work with students and staff at Dominion since the school opened in 2003. And Tuesday, Rachel Brewer decided to join them at the mic. She said when she and her husband took jobs with Loudoun County Public Schools 22 years ago, it was a decision that was about much more than teaching. “It was two incredibly broken people with the desire to show other broken people that they mattered. That their home life, mistakes, poor choices didn’t have to define them,” she said. Brewer, who teaches at Mill Run Elementary in Ashburn, said that she and her family have been so encouraged by the swell of love and support over the

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Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Woodgrove High School teacher Alex Bennett leads a dual enrollment U.S. government class. Interest in dual enrollment classes has more than double in the past two years, enrolling about 3,500 Loudoun County students this year.

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region’s biggest provider of dual enrollment courses, agreed to waive tuition fees. Doyle said guidance counselors are careful to not guarantee to students that their college or university will accept their credits. “Right now we just say these are highly transferrable, but really you need to check to make sure it’s going to count toward your specific program,” Doyle said. “It will be great if we can get more transparency. Maybe it will be a little bit easier to navigate the process.” “It’s a bit of a patchwork quilt, in terms of what universities will accept what,” Julie A. Leidig, provost at Northern Virginia Community College’s Loudoun County campus, said. She is advocating an across-theboard standard for all Virginia colleges and universities, so that, for example, a Loudoun high school student can take his or her dual enrollment credits to NVCC to earn an associate’s degree and then on to a four-year university to put toward a bachelor’s. “It cuts down on the unpredictability in terms of what students and their families can expect,” she said. It would be a big help for students like Sean Hillissey, a senior at Woodgrove High School. He is one of 486 Woodgrove students taking dual enrollment classes this year and he’s considering attending Penn State, one

5 Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 3

of the eight schools that has accepted him. “But it’s $47,000 a year,” he added with a grimace about the out-of-state tuition. His college decision could teeter on what schools accept his 29 dual enrollment credits that he will have earned by June. Woodgrove’s Director of Counseling Geri Fiore tells students to specifically ask if the higher education institution they’re considering will take the credits, especially for students eyeing top-tier schools, like Yale and the College of William & Mary. “Those schools want to see rigorous course work,” she said. But, she added, that the impetus is also on the high schools to keep a good reputation for producing high-performing students who will do well at some of the nation’s best colleges. “At Woodgrove, we challenge our dual enrollment teachers to keep it rigorous,” she said. “Because schools like James Madison University want to accept students who are college- and career-ready.” Leidig acknowledged that getting nearly 40 of Virginia’s public higher education institutions to agree on a standard will be tough, but it’s doable. The legislation on its way to the governor’s desk tasks the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia with seeing that it gets done. “It won’t be easy. But if everybody keeps the students’ best interest at heart, I think it can be done.”

[ LOUDOUN GOV ]

Loudoun to Put Nighttime Economy Plan into Action

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BY RENSS GREENE

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Davis Church, built in the 1870s, came down last week.

Davis Church Meets its End BY RENSS GREENE

church at the corner of Davis Drive and West Church Road in Sterling, which became a landmark for some area residents who saw it as emblematic of old Sterling and of destructive redevelopment, came down last week. Between Feb. 7 and Feb. 8, heavy machinery tore down and carried off the remains of Davis Church. The Gothic Revival building went up in the 1870s and has been vacant since the congregation left more than 30 years ago. Because of structure updates made over the years, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources found the church

ineligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, and supporters of a developer’s plans to raze the building and put up a self-storage facility said it had been neglected too long. The Young Group faced fierce resistance to its development plans, including two challenges at the Board of Zoning Appeals. Plans to preserve parts of the church by creating a pocket park fell apart over time. At first, the Young Group proposed to save the building’s façade, but the county zoning regulators determined the façade would be a structure and would require the developer to reduce the size of the self-storage unit to satisfy with square footage limits.

The Young Group proposed instead a pocket park with benches, pavers, landscaping, and an art installation made of reclaimed organ pipes. The developer would then hand off maintenance of the pocket park to a community organization, donating $25,000 in seed money to whatever organization took over the park. That plan, too, was halted by the zoning department, which in October sent the developer a letter pointing out that private and public parks are not permitted in the property’s commercial zoning designation. The developer’s land design consultant decided the park would be identified on plans as an DAVIS CHURCH >> 8

Survey Shows Growth Replaced Traffic as No. 1 Concern Among County Residents BY RENSS GREENE A biennial survey of Loudoun residents has shown that the county’s growth has surpassed its traffic as the No. 1 concern on Loudouners’ minds. According to the survey by the University of Virginia Center for Survey Research, since at least 2007 traffic has been the biggest problem for Loudoun residents. In 2016, however, 36.4 percent of Loudouners said growth and development was the single biggest problem facing the county, ahead of traffic, which garnered 32.5 percent of the vote. Growth and traffic far outpace other concerns. The next biggest concern, schools, was identified by 7.1 percent of Loudouners as the biggest problem. The survey also asked people if they

would be willing to pay higher taxes to address their biggest problem. Among the relatively few people who identified schools as the biggest problem, 49.6 percent said they would be willing to pay higher taxes, and among the 3.7 percent of people who said the school budget was the biggest problem, 78.5 percent said they would be willing to pay higher taxes. Slightly more than 32 percent of people who said growth is the biggest problem said they would be willing to pay higher taxes to address it. 45.3 percent of people who said traffic is the biggest problem said they would pay higher taxes. Residents also rated transportation GROWTH >> 8

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

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County leaders have taken the Nighttime Economy Ad-Hoc Committee’s 36 recommendations on how to shape the Loudoun lifestyle of the future and turned them into action. Having accepted the recommendations that NEAC, a subcommittee of the Economic Development Advisory Commission, spent a year crafting, the Board of Supervisors has voted to put into action six of its recommendations. NEAC recommended the county ask for authority to create Arts, Cultural and Entertainment districts, something towns can already do. This would allow the county to create economic incentives to attract and retain arts and cultural businesses in those districts. Authority to create arts districts is granted by the state. County staff members will now form a multi-departmental working group, including representatives from Parks, Recreation and Community Service; Economic Development; and Planning and Zoning. That panel will look at options for creating arts districts, the feasibility of the idea, and how a Loudoun arts district would look and work. That work will also fit into Envision Loudoun, the county’s ongoing comprehensive plan review. NEAC also recommended creating a standing committee comprised of representatives from the Economic Development Advisory Commission, Visit Loudoun, the Chamber of Commerce, the Department of Economic Development, the towns, and other organizations to coordinate marketing efforts across the county. The logistics of that committee will be handled by the Chamber, Visit Loudoun and the Department of Economic Development. Another recommendation, to allow developers greater flexibility to react to the market, will be tackled by the Department of Planning and Zoning. County staff members will look at the possibility of zoning districts with greater flexibility of uses, and find areas where legislative applications can instead be approved or rejected on a staff level to offer a faster and less expensive review process. Similar work will be done to address NEAC’s recommendation for greater flexibility in parks and public spaces and create safe spaces for pick up and drop off such as from public transportation, taxis or Uber. The county staff will develop a guide to design features that could be incorporated into NEAC >> 8

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“outdoor employee space.” The county staff also insisted the developer take ownership of a path connecting the space to a nearby sidewalk, and initially resisted allowing the developer to connect to the public sidewalk. “Zoning does not want the pocket park connected by public sidewalk—essentially inviting the public to use this pocket park,” wrote Loudoun County project engineer Neelam Henderson in correspondence between the county and developer. But despite these hurdles, Young

NEAC << FROM 6

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developments to provide those public spaces. NEAC also recommended the county and towns coordinate to bring their rules and zoning ordinances into accord. The county administrator will send a letter to the town managers or mayors with NEAC’s recommendations. Finally, NEAC encouraged finding public-private partnerships to build the infrastructure and public facilities for the planned mixed-use environments, such as around the future Ashburn metro station. The Department of Economic Development is tasked with seeking those out. An additional 11 recommendations will be folded into work the county is

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issues as very important in the region. 90.1 percent of people said improving and building roads is very or somewhat important, with emphasis placed also on improving pedestrian walkways and bikeways, commuter bus service to DC, and local bus services. Nonetheless, Loudouners reported overwhelming satisfaction with life in the county. Ninety-four percent of people said overall quality of life in the county is “excellent” or “good,” and about 98 percent of respondents said they feel “safe” or “very safe” in their

Group president Robert Young said there will be something there to mark the church. “We’re going to do it anyway,” Young said. Young said he will now build the outdoor employee space—with the same organ pipes, benches, pavers, and landscaping—maintain the space, and accept liability for it. His company will also donate $25,000 to a neighborhood cause designated by Sterling Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D). “It’s an unusual situation, and I don’t get it,” Young said. He said he plans to have work on the parcel done in a year. rgreene@loudounnow.com already doing, such as creating community social spaces and the ongoing comprehensive plan rewrite. But 17 more recommendations will get no action, many because they reflect work the county is already doing or has already done, such as protecting the county’s proffer system from state restrictions and investing in transit and transportation in the county. Two recommendations the county has decided should be led by the private sector. One is to professionally maintain public spaces, and another to encourage overnight parking options. Read all of NEAC’s recommendations and the county’s planned actions on them here. https://lfportal.loudoun.gov/LFPortalinternet/0/doc/213131/Electronic. aspx rgreene@loudounnow.com

neighborhoods. Supervisor Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) expressed concern about the county’s continued dependence on federal money. He pointed out that nearly a third of employed households have a federal employee or contractor, and that more than half of employed households say their job security depends on federal spending. “What I’m drawing out of this is we, from an economic development standpoint, have to continue to focus heavily on diversifying our economy, because we have an awful lot of eggs in one basket,” Buona said. rgreene@loudounnow.com

Rural rules “[It] creates a change in character, and that’s not something you typically do through special exceptions,” Barker said. ZOAG member Eric Zicht said allowing property owners to change density through a special exception process creates more flexibility and a less onerous process. “Basically what ZOAG saw here was that we’re putting a patch on a bigger

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 7

“There’s a reason why this is called rural commercial,” Barker said. “…It’s really important to understand the intent of this district was for rural uses, and it’s not to pack townhomes in.” Two commissioners, Cliff Keirce (Broad Run) and Dan Lloyd (Sterling), attempted to exempt applications that have already been filed with the county but not yet acted upon from a change to zoning rules. “You have land owners that have followed the rules, and have filed an application the way the county has said,” Keirce said. “…They now suddenly have

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

[It] creates a change in character, and that’s not something you typically do through special exceptions. that yanked out from under them. I don’t think it’s good business for the county to do that to people.” The attempt to protect those applications from a zoning change failed 6-21, Keirce and Lloyd alone supporting it and Commission Jim Sisley (At Large) recusing himself from the discussion to avoid a conflict of interest. The planning commission recommended the residential density cap, without ZOAG’s special exception recommendation or Keirce’s exemption for active applications, 7-1-1, Lloyd opposed. rgreene@loudounnow.com

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problem, and that is that we don’t’ have a good feel for what this rural commercial district is,” Zicht said. “Its’ a grab bag of uses that are not easily defined.” Both Barker and Zicht agreed, however, that this zoning district should be looked at through the Envision Loudoun comprehensive plan review. The county’s work to update its RC zoning has been made more urgent by pending applications to the county, such as applications to build up to 109 townhouse condominium units near the intersection of Ashburn Road and the W&OD Trail, or another that proposes to build 80 townhouses at the intersection of Stone Springs Boulevard and Evergreen Mills Road.

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[ LEESBURG ]

More Than Just a Place, A Mission BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

ou could be forgiven if you’ve driven by the large building on Depot Court in Leesburg and wondered what to make of the space that formerly housed the Leesburg Senior Center and the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services. Now known as Leesburg Junction, the building is contributing to a revival of the area that includes Crescent Place, the sculpture garden at Raflo Park and some of the favorites in downtown’s bustling restaurant scene. It was just a year and a half ago that Drew Clyde and Jack O’Donnell first met. Clyde, the pastor of Headway Church, would often peek in the 215 Depot Court building, which had been empty for about two and a half years after the county departments moved out, and wonder if it would be the right space for his church. He called to inquire about the building, but did not receive a call back. Until, one day, O’Donnell returned his call. “He heard my vision and he was inspired,” Clyde recalls. Now, Clyde, one of the owners and founders of Leesburg Junction, and O’Donnell, who helps to manage the building, have joined forces to create a space that hosts several uses, but has one shared vision: making a difference. Billing itself as “a collaborative work space and event venue,” the handsomely decorated and renovated Leesburg Junction takes up the majority of the three-floor building. Inside you will find work spaces and meeting rooms available to rent for businesses, or individuals looking for a step up from home offices, and a large event venue appropriate for just about any occasion.

BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Leesburg Junction owners Jack O’Donnell and Drew Clyde are welcomed by Mayor Kelly Burk during a Feb. 9 ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Clyde’s church also operates out of the Leesburg Junction, as well as O’Donnell’s NuVu Real Estate. Leesburg Junction bills itself as a community of “entrepreneurs, artists and advocates,” Clyde said, and holds Final Fridays programs, when area residents and visitors can enjoy performances by local artists on the last Friday of each month. A coffee shop, coming soon on the first floor, will round out the offerings for the time being. It’s not your typical workspace, Clyde emphasized. “We’re a community of people that value connecting and collaborating with others,” he said. “You value the relationships. So whether you’re a business or a nonprofit, you don’t just want to make money, you want to make a difference. Connecting leads to business and personal growth and making an impact on the community. We want

it to be making progress while you enjoy the process.” Leesburg Junction itself is a nonprofit, so the proceeds go to its strategic community partners that serve people in need, Clyde said. “It’s really [about] helping everybody in the community flourish,” he said. It’s been a whirlwind getting the building to where it is now, with Clyde noting it was in less-than-stellar condition when renovations began in earnest. Most of the work was done by the men who started the venture and was completed in less than a year since the two decided to partner. “We’re excited,” Clyde said. “It’s cool to see how far we’ve come.” For more information about Leesburg Junction, go to leesburgjunction. com. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

Country Automotive Acquires Star Buick LOUDOUN NOW STAFF The dean of Loudoun’s auto dealers, Ray Martin Glembot, has announced plans to sell Star Buick GMC in Leesburg to Andy Budd, owner of Country Chevrolet in Warrenton. The sale was expected to close Wednesday. The dealership’s new name will be Country Buick GMC of Leesburg. The dealership has 41 employees, all of whom will be retained, said Glembot, who has been selling cars for 56 years. The dealership sold more than 500 vehicles last year. “I’ve been at this a long time, it’s been a good run and I’m looking forward to spending time with my family—especially the grandkids,” Glembot said in a statement. “In deciding to sell, my biggest concern was for my many employees. I wanted to make sure that they would keep their jobs and that the new owner would be someone they could be proud to work for. I’ve known Andy Budd for years, he has a great reputation as a dealer, employer and corporate citizen and I feel like I’m leaving

Burk Lays Out Expectations for Exceptional Town Service Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk used her first State of the Town address not only to look back at a successful, though sometimes challenging, year for the town, but also to offer many things to look forward to. The mayor made her presentation Feb. 8 to a packed Council Chambers at Town Hall. Vice Mayor Suzanne Fox and council members Ron Campbell and Marty Martinez were in the audience for the roughly 30-minute address, along with dozens of town residents and supporters. Burk touched on many key moments and objectives of the past year, from a slight increase in the town tax rate to pay for transportation improvements, to the completion of many projects throughout town, including the Russell Branch Parkway extension, the Lowenbach neighborhood improvements, and security upgrades around the Water Pollution Control Facility. She also pointed to the many new business openings and the new jobs they brought, the popular town events organized and managed by the town staff, and the challenges experienced in last year’s historic winter storm. She took time during her speech to thank town staff members for their work. “Leesburg’s staff—whether in the Town Hall, on the streets, at the police station, or utility plant— works hard to maintain excellent services and strives to improve on them constantly,” she said. Burk said town employees, along with the Town Council and engaged and active residents, are to thank for the accolades constantly heaped on Leesburg, which is frequently cited in national surveys as a great place to raise a family. “With a strong financial background, strong staff support, and an involved citizenry, I am very excited about 2017,” she said. The mayor noted some projects she is personally working on. BURK >> 11

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

After working nearly six decades in the car business, Ray Martin Glembot has sold his family’s Leesburg dealership.

the people in good hands.” The Country Automotive Group is one of Fauquier County’s largest employers. The group operates six automotive-related companies in the Warrenton/Gainesville area: Country

Chevrolet, 29 Auto Outlet, Summit Motors, Warrenton Select Diesels, DTO Custom Jeeps, Country Credit Center and Trusted Auto Care. The Leesburg Buick GMC is the group’s second franchised dealership.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Mayor Kelly Burk

[ LEESBURG BRIEFS ]

Bill Eyes Grants, Loans for Local Dam Repair A bill that passed the General Assembly this week could give the Exeter HOA and the Town of Leesburg some help in resolving the dispute over which is responsible to pay for repairs to a stormwater retention pond dam. The town and the Exeter HOA are awaiting trial to determine ownership of a stormwater management dam located on the HOA’s property. Although the HOA has acknowledged the dam is on its property, a lawsuit filed last summer alleges that a 1990 deed of easement between the HOA and the town put the financial responsibility for repairs or rehabilitation to the dam on the town’s shoulders. The lawsuit is in the discovery process, and a pretrial

conference is yet to be scheduled. Sen. Jennifer Wexton (D-33), at the town’s urging, put forward a bill in the past two legislative sessions to allow private entities to attain grants for the repair and retrofit of dams, but it did not pass. However, on Monday a similar bill introduced by Del. Mark Cole (R-88), of Spotsylvania County, did pass. His bill, HB1562, authorizes the director of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to disburse grants or loans from the Dam Safety, Flood Prevention and Protection Assistance Fund to communities that own dams, and to localities in which dams are located. The grants could be used for the design, repair, and the safety modifications of dams identified in safety reports.

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She said a recent conversation with management at The National in Lansdowne resulted in plans by the conference center to operate a shuttle service to downtown Leesburg on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights so its guests may enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment options in the Historic District. Burk also said she would like to get a comprehensive parking plan completed this year and plans to work with the town staff and commission members

to achieve it. “For too long we have done piecemeal fixes and this year I plan to kick off an in-depth, town-wide review,” she said. Burk also said she wants to arrange an open house at the Leesburg Executive Airport to give the public more of an opportunity to see what the airport offers. Of the year ahead, Burk concluded, “This is your government doing its best to benefit you and your family in a truly exceptional manner. My mission is to fulfill that objective and I work each day to do just that.”

Burk

The Town of Leesburg recently filled two key senior staff positions in the Department of Utilities and the Department of Public Works and Capital Projects. Travis Davidson is the new manager of operations and inspections for the Department of Public Works and Capital Projects. He came to Leesburg from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority where he was a senior program manager overseeing facility and environmental construction projects. Davidson has more than 20 years of public sector experience in engineering and transportation management, operations and infrastructure construction. His previous employers include the State of Georgia; Charlotte, NC; Augusta-Richmond County, GA; Volusia County, FL; Memphis, TN; and the District of Columbia. He holds a

bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology from South Carolina State University, a MBA from Gardner-Webb University, a master’s degree in public administration from Villanova University, and a doctorate of organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Patrick Moore is the new deputy director of utilities. He was previously the assistant public works director for the City of Manassas. Prior positions include engineering services manager and GIS analyst with the City of Manassas and project team lead for the Virginia Department of Transportation. A registered professional engineer, Moore holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology/engineering management from Old Dominion University, and a master’s degree in public administration from George Mason University.

schedule their council meetings. Leesburg is unique in its back-to-back night scheduling, he noted. The first option would have the council meeting every Tuesday evening—the first and third meetings for work sessions, and the second and fourth for regular business meetings. The second option would have a work session the first Tuesday, and business meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays. The third Tuesday would not have a regularly scheduled meeting, but would be open if the council wished to hold an additional work session. While four council members—Vice Mayor Suzanne Fox and council members Ken Reid, Hugh Forsythe, and Ron Campbell—expressed interest in looking at one of the two options, a council majority could not be found to support one option over the other. Campbell preferred the first option, while the others preferred the second. Fox said her preference would be to keep the schedule as it is, but said she is amenable to a change for staff ’s sake. Mayor Kelly Burk and council members Marty Martinez and Tom Dunn all said they were content to keep things the way they are. Burk pointed to experience on the Board of Supervisors, where between regular board meetings, public hearings, and committee assignments made for a heavy workload. “I’m concerned that there wouldn’t be a break and we’d end up having to meet every week,” she said." As there were not four votes to support any one option, the matter is not currently scheduled for a Town Council vote.

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Town Adds 2 Staffers

Davidson

Members of the Town Council this week considered whether to further change their meeting schedule, and potentially do away with the current backto-back bimonthly work sessions and regular business meetings. Last month, council members supported a change to meeting times, now beginning all meetings at 7 p.m. rather than 7:30 p.m. However, one issue that has been debated over the years, never finding consensus, has been whether to change the arrangement of its current four monthly meetings. Since 2000, the Town Council has met on the second and fourth Monday nights for its work sessions. The following Tuesday nights, the council reconvenes for regular business meetings. Members of the council and the town staff have noted that the back-to-back nights can be grueling at times, with some meetings stretching into the latenight hours, only to return again the following evening. It is a particularly challenging schedule for town staff, Town Manager Kaj Dentler noted, as they are the ones responsible for getting back to the Town Council with any needed information in advance of Tuesday night’s meeting, as well as preparing for other agenda items. And if the Tuesday night meeting is also a late night, it can make for a particularly tiring week, he said. “The system is draining on staff physically and mentally. It’s really Thursday before we’re back to normal,” he said. But Dentler emphasized if the council wants to continue with the current schedule, his staff would make it work. He presented the council with two options to consider, taking a cue from other nearby localities with how they

11 Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

Moore

Council Mulls Further Meeting Changes

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[ PUBLIC SAFETY ] Sterling Man Sent to Prison for Plotting Terrorist Attack Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 27, of Sterling, a former member of the Army National Guard, was sentenced Friday to 11 years in federal prison for attempting to provide material to support the Jalloh Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Jalloh pleaded guilty to the charge on Oct. 27. According to court documents, a now-deceased member of ISIL brokered the March 2016 introduction between

Sheriff’s Office Investigates Shooting, Suspects At Large The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred Monday night in Sugarland Run. Deputies were called to a South Midland Avenue home around 10 p.m. and found a man who had been shot in the leg. Witnesses reported that two males approached the victim and a verbal altercation ensued. Both suspects displayed firearms and one shot the victim. They fled the scene. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment of injuries described as

Jalloh and an individual working as an FBI confidential source. The ISIL member was actively plotting an attack in the United States and believed the attack would be carried out with the assistance of Jalloh and the confidential informant. Jalloh met with the informant twice and said he was a former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, but that he decided not to re-enlist after listening to online lectures by Anwar al-Awlaki, a deceased leader of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. Jalloh had recently returned from a six-month trip to Africa where he had met with ISIL members in Nigeria and began communicating online with the ISIL member who later brokered his introduction to the FBI informant. During

their meeting, Jalloh said he thought about conducting an attack all the time, and that he was close to doing so at one point. Jalloh claimed to know how to shoot guns and praised the gunman who killed five U.S. military members in a terrorist attack in Chattanooga, TN, in 2015. Jalloh also stated he had been thinking about conducting an attack similar to the 2009 attack at Ft. Hood, TX, which killed 13 people and wounded 32 others, according to the court filings. According to the statement of facts filed with the plea agreement, during the May 2016 meeting, Jalloh asked the informant about the timeline for an operation and said it was better to plan an attack operation for the month of Ra-

madan, and stated that such operations are, “100 percent the right thing.” Jalloh also asked the informant to assist him in providing a donation to ISIL. Ultimately, Jalloh provided a prepaid cash transfer of $500 to a contact who Jalloh believed was a member of ISIL, but who was in fact an undercover FBI employee. Last June, Jalloh travelled to North Carolina and made an unsuccessful attempt to obtain a firearm. On July 2, Jalloh went to a gun dealership in Northern Virginia, where he test-fired and purchased an assault rifle. Unbeknownst to Jalloh, the rifle was rendered inoperable before he left the dealership with the weapon. Jalloh was arrested the next day and the FBI seized the rifle.

[ SAFETY BRIEFS ] non-life-threatening. Armed Robbers Hit Both suspects are described as black males wearing dark clothing and ban- Ashburn 7-Eleven

dannas over their faces. The area was searched with the assistance of the Fairfax County Police helicopter, but no suspects were located. The motive for the shooting is unclear and the case remains under investigation, the agency stated. Anyone with any information regarding the case is asked to call Detective A. Perry at 703-777-0475 or to submit a tip through the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office app. The Loudoun Sheriff app is available on the iTunes App Store and Google Play.

The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred Feb. 10 at the 7-Eleven store on Ashburn Road. According to the report, two men entered the store just after 3:15 a.m. Friday. With firearms displayed, the suspects forced an employee to the back of the store and then took him to the register. The suspects demanded cash from the employee and stole merchandise. The sheriff ’s office released video of the suspects in action. It is posted on the “Loudoun Sheriff ” YouTube page.

The sheriff’s office has released video of the Feb. 10 robbery.

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dressed in all black, wearing a black and grey snow hat and black shoes. The second suspect was wearing a black hoodie, dark jeans, and black shoes with red soles. Both suspects had their faces covered and were wearing gloves. The area was searched but the suspects were not found. The case remains under investigation.

Pedestrian Killed in Parking Lot

Investigators Team Up on Daytime Burglary Cases Detectives with the Fauquier Coun-

pect is asked to call Loudoun Detective T. Sheffer at 703-737-8203 or Fauquier Detective S. Shaw at 540-347-3300.

garding the identity of the suspect is asked to call Detective A. Perry at 703777-0475 or to submit a tip through the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office app. The Loudoun Sheriff app is available on the iTunes App Store and Google Play.

Ohio Sex Offender Targeted Loudoun Boys The sheriff’s office has released video of the Feb. 10 robbery.

Oak Grove Subway Robber Caught on Video The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office has released surveillance video of an attempted robbery of a Subway restaurant in Sterling on Feb. 6. The video shows the suspect entering the Oakgrove Road restaurant around 9:45 p.m. last Monday and brandishing a firearm. The suspect jumped over the counter and demanded cash from an employee. After a brief confrontation, the suspect left the store empty-handed. The employee was not injured during the incident. The video of the incident can be viewed on the Loudoun Sheriff YouTube page. The suspect is described as a male, wearing a mask, gloves and a plaid shirt. He was also wearing a hat with a glossy orange or red brim. The attempted robbery was reported to law enforcement on Feb. 7. Anyone with any information re-

An Ohio man pleaded guilty Monday to posing as a young girl and getting young boys in Loudoun County to post sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Vincenzo Leonardi, 27, of Lakewood, OH, was indicted Nov. 3. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison with a maximum penalty of 30 years when sentenced May 12. Evidence showed that between May 2012 and February 2016, Leonardi posed as a minor girl named "Taylor Capps" on Facebook, Instagram and other social media services with the intent of luring young boys to engage in sexually explicit communications and conduct. As part of the scheme, he sent pictures of a minor girl and other naked females to his victims, and asked them to reciprocate with photos or videos of themselves. One victim was 9. Leonardi's computer had more than two dozen sexually explicit videos and more than 100 pictures.

Loudoun deputies were called to two pedestrian crashes last Thursday, including one fatality. Both incidents happened in shopping center parking lots about 12:30 p.m. Selma Turkoglu, 48, of Ashburn, was walking in the parking lot of the Dulles Eastern Plaza when she was hit by a Ford F-350 pickup. She died at the scene. No charges were immediately filed, but the case is under review by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The other crash happened at the Dulles Crossing Plaza. A pedestrian in a crosswalk was struck by a 2005 Acura MDX as the driver was turning into the parking lot. Gifty A. Otetu, 38, of Potomac Falls, was charged with reckless driving and cited for driving without a license and without a vehicle registration. The pedestrian was taken to Reston Hospital for treatment of injuries described as non-life-threatening.

ty Sheriff ’s Office and the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office are investigating a series of burglaries that occurred during the past month. Eight daytime break-ins at rural homes may be connected. The first two occurred Jan. 10 at homes on Grubstake Farm Lane near Hillsboro and the 39000 block of Charles Town Pike near Hamilton. The suspect was caught on surveillance video at the Grubstake Farm Lane home. After waiting a short period of time to determine whether anyone was home, he forced entry through a rear door. The man took a rifle and was seen driving away in a white four-door sedan. Three more burglaries and an attempted burglary were reported on Feb. 3 in Fauquier County. The burglaries occurred in the 4800 block of O’Bannon Road, the 7400 block of Drake Drive, and the 6400 block of James Madison Highway. An attempted burglary was also reported in the 5300 block of James Madison Highway near Great Meadow. Witnesses reported seeing a possible suspect and vehicle that matched the description from the Grubstake Farm Lane case. Two additional burglaries were reported on Feb. 6 in the Aldie area. The suspect entered a home in the 39000 block of John Mosby Highway and removed two handguns from a safe. A similar burglary was reported in the 38000 block of John Mosby Highway where jewelry was stolen from a home. In most of the cases, the suspect forced entry through a rear door. Anyone with any information regarding the possible identity of the sus-

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 12

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[ E D U C AT I O N ]

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Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Broad Run High School junior and first generation American Rida Ali organized the “walk out” to demonstrate how empty the schools would be without immigrants.

Hundreds of Students ‘Walk Out’ in Support of Immigrants BY DANIELLE NADLER

fter watching the confusion and fear that followed President Donald Trump’s travel restrictions on refugees and travelers from seven Muslim-majority countries, Rida Ali felt the need to do something. The 16-year-old Ashburn resident is a first generation American. Her mother is from Yemen and her father from Pakistan. She took to Twitter and suggested to a few of her friends that they plan a “walk out,” to leave class for 10-15 minutes on Friday to make a statement about how empty the school—the nation, really—would be without immigrants or descendants of immigrants. What she didn’t expect was that hundreds of students would join her on campuses throughout Loudoun County. “It spread so far,” she said. “I had no idea that any other school was going to

do this.” Walk outs were reported Friday afternoon at least eight Loudoun County high schools. Four of the largest demonstrations took place at Briar Woods, Rock Ridge, Potomac Falls and Broad Run, where Ali is a junior. The school system reported that, in total, 619 students participated in the walk out. Despite Friday’s near freezing temperature, Ali, in her hijab, led about 90 of her classmates out of the school just before 2:30 p.m. She had instructed them not to chant, but to silently sit on the sidewalk. About a dozen held signs with pro-immigration messages, like “My country is built by immigrants,” and several waved American flags. Ali stood in front of her peers and several flashing news cameras and said, “I organized this walk out not because I wanted to protest anything. It’s not because I wanted to make a political statement. Not because I wanted to disrupt class time. I organized this because

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Students at high schools throughout Loudoun County held a “walk out” on Friday to show their support for immigrants.

I think it’s time to come together and outline the importance of diversity and immigration in our country.” She told the students that most U.S. citizens are, really, immigrants or descendants of immigrants. “At one point, one of our family members came to this country. It’s not an opinion, it’s not political. It’s a fact,” she said. Her comments received loud applause from the students and cheers from about six adults who stood in the distance. They said they attended to show their support for the walk out. Kartar and Shakta Khalsa, who drove from Sterling to the Ashburn school, said they’ve been encouraged by people’s willingness to voice their opposition to the new president. “I support what they’re doing. It’s happening on every level everywhere,” Kartar Khalsa said. “I think this is what democracy looks like.” One Broad Run student held a small

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Broad Run High School senior Vinnie Sack held an opposing protest, in support of President Donald Trump.

WALK OUT >> 16

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Broad Run High School students smile for a half dozen news cameras during the “walk out.”

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A bill that would provide public school students with a voucher to be spent on private school tuition narrowly passed in the Virginia House of Delegates last week. The legislation, HB 1605 sponsored by Del. David LaRock (R-10), who represents western Loudoun, would allow parents of public preschool through high school students to apply for a “oneyear, renewable Parental Choice Education Savings Account” in a similar amount to what the state would spend on the child in a public school setting. For Loudoun families, that’s about $4,000 a year. LaRock called the proposal a “winwin,” saying that it would improve educational access and opportunities for students and give parents more flexibility over their children’s education. Loudoun County representatives Del. Thomas A. “Tag” Greason (R-32) and Sen. Richard H. Black (R-13) also sponsored the bill. It has been referred to the Senate’s Committee on Education and Health. A similar bill sponsored by LaRock and aimed at providing the vouchers just for students with disabilities was approved by the full General Assembly last year, but Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) vetoed the measure.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” with seven performances starting Feb. 24. The full-length musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber tells the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors, given to him by his father. The gift makes Joseph’s brothers jealous, so they sell him into slavery and the saga begins. The performance will feature a live pit band to accompany the singing and dancing. The production will run under the direction of Blue Ridge drama program director Dolly Stevens, set designer Greg Powell, and choreography by Gretchen Lamb and Jean Ann Michie, director of Loudoun Cotillion. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, Feb. 25, Friday, March 3 and Saturday, March 4; with 2:30 p.m. matinees on Sunday, Feb. 26, Saturday, March 4 and Sunday, March 5. They will take place at Blue Ridge Middle School, 551 East A St. in Purcellville. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at brms.ticketleap.com/joe.

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

State House Passes School Choice Voucher Bill

loudounnow.com

Gat Creek Sale thru February 22

[ SCHOOL NOTES ]

loudounnow.com

<< FROM 15 ing on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) disciplines. Grades with more student applicants than seats will take part in a lottery, which will be conducted by an independent accounting firm. Class sizes range from 20 to 25 students, and there are openings in most grades, with the greatest availability in the incoming kindergarten class. Applications can be picked up at the school office or downloaded at HillsboroCharter.org. Completed applications can be sent to Hillsboro Charter Academy Board of Directors, 37110 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132. Parents can schedule a visit to the school by contacting Hillsboro Charter Academy Operations Manager Precyous Harris at 540-751-2560 or Precyous. Harris@hillsborocharter.org.

Loudoun Schools Named to AP Honor Roll Students and educators from Loudoun County Public Schools attended an awards ceremony in Richmond to recognize the school system’s making the 2016 Advanced Placement Honor Roll. The awards ceremony was held Feb. 8 and was attended by Gov. Terry McAuliffe and Superintendent of Public Instruction Steven R. Staples. Loudoun joined four other counties—Middlesex, Rockbrige, Rockingham and Southampton—in earning a spot on the AP Honor Roll. Just more than 430 school districts across the U.S.

and Canada earned the recognition in 2016. To be named to the AP Honor Roll, a school system must substantially increase the number of students taking AP tests, must maintain or increase participation by students in historically under-represented populations and must maintain or increase the percentage of students scoring a three or higher on at least one AP exam. Loudoun was previously named to the AP Honor Roll in 2011.

Loudoun Students Applauded for Volunteerism Prudential Financial, in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, named two Loudoun County students as top youth volunteers of 2017. Shishir Sriramoju, 14, of Ashburn won the prestigious Prudential Spirit of Community Award, which comes with $1,000, an engraved silver medallion, and an invite to a four-day work shop in Washington, DC, in May. Shishir, an eighth-grader at Stone Hill Middle School, was recognized for starting a summer chess club to introduce elementary students to the challenging game, while also raising $1,500 for various charities. Arianna Wright, 14, of Leesburg was named a “distinguished finalist” in the awards program. The Tuscarora High School freshman was recognized for helping to reestablish a car seat safety program in Loudoun County, an effort that involved raising $10,000 to buy car seats for families in need and recruit and

train car seat safety technicians. “Prudential is honored to recognize these young volunteers for their exemplary service,” Prudential Chairman and CEO John Strangfeld stated. “We hope that their stories inspire others to consider how they, too, can volunteer their time and talents to improve their communities.”

Ladies Board Seeks Nursing Scholarships Applicants The Ladies Board of Inova Loudoun Hospital is accepting applications for nursing school tuition assistance. Scholarships are available to eligible students in various programs of study, including degrees at the associate, bachelor, master’s and doctoral levels. Applicants must live or work in Loudoun County, be enrolled in or accepted into an accredited school of nursing, have a 3.0 grade point average, have completed one semester of nursing school or 30 undergraduate college credits. Applications and more information are available online at ladiesboard.org or by calling 703-777-6357. The Nursing Scholarship Fund was created in 1959 and has since awarded nearly 1,100 scholarships, totaling over $1,500,000. Last year’s scholarships ranged from $1,000 to $3,500 and totaled $105,500. Scholarships are funded by the Hospital Gift Shop, Twice Is Nice thrift shop in Leesburg, the Lights of Love program, and the Annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale.

Walk out << FROM 14 counter demonstration. Wearing an iconic red Trump campaign hat, Vinnie Sack held a sign that read “Respect our president – Go back to school.” The 18-year-old said he was friends with many of the students who took part in the walk out. “They have an opinion and get to stand up for what they believe in, and so do I,” he added. He explained that he’s had different life experiences than many of his classmates and those have shaped his world view, his family, and his political views. After Ali’s brief comments, she gathered the students for a large group photo. Then she asked them to all return to class, which they did. Public Information Officer Wayde Byard said principals were instructed to tell students that there would be consequences for leaving school early, in line with punishments typically given for tardies, absences and/or leaving school without permission. Woodgrove High School students were warned by Principal Sam Shipp that morning that anyone who participated in the walk out would face disciplinary action. Specifically, he said they would preclude students from being involved in athletics or any other school activity. The president’s executive order barring refugees and citizens from seven countries has been temporary blocked in federal court. dnadler@loudounnow.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

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All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.

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Kolla Announces House of Delegates Run

Friday February 24th at 2pm

Saturday February 25 at 11am

Location provided by

Lansdowne Private Wealth Management 44084 Riverside Pkwy., Lansdowne, VA 20176

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• What is right for your family: a “Will” or a “Revocable Living Trust”? • Keep your affairs private and OUT of the PROBATE COURTS • Guardianship for minors or special needs family members • Discover the “dangers of joint tenancy”

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Topics to be discussed

Wednesday February 22nd at 10am

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Subba Kolla of South Riding, a Loudoun County Realtor, will challenge Del. John J. Bell (D-87) as a Republican in the 2017 Virginia elections. “My top priorities as a mem- Kolla ber of the State House will be education, transportation and working with small businesses and tax payers to reduce government interference and regulation,” Kolla said in a statement. “As a conservative Republican, I believe that the government that governs least, governs best.” If elected, Kolla’s campaign says he would be the first native of India to serve in the General Assembly. The district covers much of eastern Loudoun, stretching from north of Rt. 7 in Cascades to an area south of I-66 in Prince William County. Bell won the seat in 2015 by 320 votes; in 2013, Republican David Ramadan won the seat by 182 votes. Kolla earned a master’s degree at the Indian Institute of Technology and brought his family to the U.S. at the age of 30 in 1997. After immigrating, Kolla worked as a database engineer while earning an MBA and a license as a real estate broker. He became a citizen in 2008 and runs a real estate brokerage in South Riding.

He has also been involved in a number of charities, including supporting needy people with food and backpack programs both in the United States and India, as well as helping Indian students pay for their education. Kolla has been an active Republican, involved in the campaigns of President Donald J. Trump, Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-VA-10), and David I. Ramadan, who held the 87th District seat in the House of Delegates from 2011 to 2013. Kolla was also a member of the Virginia delegation to the 2016 Republican National Convention. In 2014, Republican and then-county chairman Scott York appointed Kolla to the Loudoun County Board of Equalization. He has accumulated a number of Republican endorsements in recent weeks, including Comstock, Ramadan, Republican Party of Virginia Chairman John Whitbeck, and Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles). While Kolla said he is still formulating detailed policy ideas, he has been working with Loudoun supervisors already. “They are encountering some funding problems,” Kolla said. “We are trying to get more funding to Loudoun County, the fastest developing county here.” He said he would like to send more transportation funding to the area. The Virginia Republican party will hold its 2017 primary on June 13. According to the Associated Press, it will be Virginia Republicans’ first primary since 2005, having historically favored conventions. rgreene@loudounnow.com

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

BY RENSS GREENE

• If you have a Trust, is it funded and up to date with current law? • The problems with the “Do It Yourself/ Internet Wills or Trusts? loudounnow.com

[ OUR TOWNS ]

[ TOWN NOTES ] HILLSBORO

loudounnow.com

Mardi Gras Coming North

For a few hours on Saturday, Feb. 25, Hillsboro will claim status as New Orleans’ northernmost parish as the town celebrates its Mardi Gras Masquerade. The fundraiser will benefit the Old Stone Schoolhouse. From 7:30 to 11 p.m., participants will be treated to Cajun cuisine, king cakes, specialty drinks, local beer and wine, and New Orleans jazz under the direction of DJ Ben Ortiz. There also will be a silent auction. Prizes will be awarded for best costume. Tickets are $35 single/$60 couple through Feb. 19, after which prices increase. For orders and details, go to oldstoneschool.org.

St. Paul’s Offers Kinklings Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Potomac Vegetable Farms will join dozens of other local growers, producers, and artisans at the Loudoun Grown Expo, a chance to put all-things local agribusiness on display.

7th Annual Loudoun Grown Expo Showcases County’s Bounty BY JOHN MCNEILLY

hile some fear Purcellville is losing its small-town identity as new shopping complexes and subdivisions emerge from former farmland, the town isn’t surrendering its centuries-long status as the economic hub of western Loudoun’s rural economy. That role will be on full display Saturday, Feb. 25, when the town hosts the Loudoun Grown Expo at the historic Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink. The event, now in its seventh year, showcases under a single roof the area’s rich diversity of small farms, wineries, a rapidly expanding craft brewery movement, artisans, galleries, specialty food providers, and restaurants. Consider it a feast of the best of western Loudoun’s agricultural traditions, as well as a mingling of the area’s fast-emerging spirits and artisanal-focused trades. The Loudoun Grown Expo will draw representatives from nearly a dozen farms—including stalwarts Great Country, Wegmeyer, and Potomac Vegetable Farms—five area wineries, including longtime notables Fabbioli Cellars and North Gate Vineyards, as well as award-winning Adroit Theory Brewing, and numerous arts and crafts vendors. Food will also be available, from kettle corn, artisanal cheeses, to Lothar’s Gourmet Sausages. The town today is very different from the Purcellville of 1903, when the tabernacle was built in the tiny rural outpost mostly known as a railroad stop where anti-prohibition rallies drew thousands. Open-air, Evangelical gatherings decrying the evil of drink

became so popular they were known as “Bush rallies”—so-named because they were held amidst literal dusty bushes. Decades later, when the building was converted to a skating rink in the late 1940s to cater to bored rural youth, the facility was named the “Bush Center.” Kids in Zoot suits, cool and aloof, affected by the revolutionary new music of Chuck Berry, Little Richard and Elvis Presley, strapped on roller skates and tirelessly skated around a small, wooden floor while attentive adults hovered, monitoring for consumption of the “devil’s brew” or other such immoral, rock ’n’ roll-inspired activities. “How ironic that, 114 years later, western Loudoun is now known as the epicenter of the wine and craft beer industry,” said a laughing Philip Message, president of Purcellville’s Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink. Message and his spouse, France, took over day-to-day operations of the Bush Tabernacle, which the Town of Purcellville renamed after assuming control of it from the local fire department in 2010. The expo was launched by town government leaders as a way to spotlight the area’s agricultural and artisanal bounty. The town government funded the Loudoun Grown Expo for the first five years of its existence. Once that support expired, Loudoun County’s Department of Economic Development, which previously supplied marketing support, didn’t hesitate to step in to provide financial assistance. “We’re very supportive of the Loudoun Grown Expo,” Kellie Hinkle, Loudoun’s agricultural development officer, said. “It’s important to our rural-based economy in western Loudoun. It’s a celebration of our ag-

riculture, especially since it’s the winter and no one’s thinking about the beauty of what’s to come in the spring. It’s a glimmer of light in a bleak winter period,” she said, “a rich reminder of the bounty to come.” Loudoun Grown Expo vendors agree about the event’s positive impact. “Our farms need more exposure in the local community. Farmers need to know their customers, and it helps for consumers to meet and get to know the people growing their food,” said Jill Evans-Kavaldjian, farm stand manager for Potomac Vegetable Farm, which has participated in the Loudoun Grown Expo the past two years. “It establishes long-term relationships.” The farm has provided sustainably grown produce for area residents and passersby for decades and it supports events that emphasize the contributions of local growers. Evans-Kavaldjian adds that the expo also has a welcome absence of red tape, which helps artisans of all kinds, with limited budgets, to easily participate. “Supporting local farming and area artisans just makes sense to us,” Evans-Kavaldjian said. Message, a Brit who came to Loudoun County in the 1980s to work in the nascent IT industry and now calls Purcellville home, said the event has evolved organically, as a result of his team’s careful attention to feedback from vendors and participants over the years. “Our vendors take less and less time each year to sign up for the next expo. They recognize the value of it, which consistently attracts several thousand people annually,” Message said. “It’s become one of Purcellville’s signature events and we’re proud to host it.”

Christian Community Church at St. Paul’s will hold its annual Kinklings Day on Saturday, Feb. 25. The Kinklings will be available at the church’s Mullen Hall from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They are $7 a dozen; a coffee and kinkling combo will be served for $1. Kinklings were once popular in German communities as a traditional sweet treat prepared and eaten just before the season of Lent began. Reggie Sanbower uses the same old German recipe he learned from his mother and was passed down through the generations. The restored 1835 church is at 12623 Harpers Ferry Road north of Hillsboro. Call 540-822-5228 or 301-4324574 to place orders or for more information.

PURCELLVILLE Developer Seeks Input on Senior Living Center The commercial real estate broker for the vacant property at the corner of North Maple Avenue and Hirst Road plans a Feb. 27 public meeting to discuss a proposed development plan for the property. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. at the Carver Center, 200 E. Willie Palmer Way. Buckeye Development is the contract purchaser of the 20acre Stupar property and is proposing a senior living community comprised of active adult housing, continuing care, memory care, adult day care, medical care and other complementary uses. For more information, contact Linda Erbs at linda@lauercommercial.com or 703-850-3641.

Simms’ Work Featured in Black History Exhibit The Purcellville Arts Council will celebrate Black History Month with a continuing show of paintings and historic memorabilia TOWN NOTES >> 20

Feb. 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2017

loudounnow.com

loudounnow.com

THE CLASSIC ROCK EXPERIENCE 2/17/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

The LACS

2/18/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

Eric Gales & Davy Knowles 2/23/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

George Clinton

An Era Closes for Round Hill Grocery One of western Loudoun’s iconic country stores is for sale. Bob and Frances Milligan owned and operated the Round Hill Grocery for more than four decades. Frances died Dec. 14 and Bob, also in ill health, never reopened the store. The store was a favorite of locals who were just as likely to stop in to chat with the Milligans as they were to pick up eggs and flour. The store and its 0.06-acre lot are being sold lock, stock and barrel—as is with the inventory included. The listing price is $295,000; Sharon Buchanan with RE/MAX Village Properties is the agent. Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

And Parliament Funkadelic Mardi Gras Madness Tour! 2/24/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

[ TOWN NOTES ]

Live Wire:

The World’s Greatest Concert Experience 2/25/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

80s Night with

THE REAGAN YEARS 3/4/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

Comedy Night in Leesburg Presented by Cool Cow Comedy 3/9/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:30)

Yonas

3/10/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

Motown and More!

3/11/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

St Patricks Day Party with

Enter the Haggis 3/18/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

THE CLARKS with

Scott Kurt

in the Train Station during February. Lifelong Purcellville resident Reginald “Reggie” Simms, with a background in graphic art, has a longstanding affinity for National Geographic magazine. During his formative years, racial segregation prevented Simms from using the public library, but he learned that he could see the world through the pages of the magazine. Simms’ photo-realism style provides vivid acrylic on canvas depictions of the iconic magazine covers. Joining Simms’ paintings are the various literary and memorabilia collections of his brother Larry Simms, a retired high school history teacher. His collection of books on African-American culture, history and the arts will be on display, as well as various culturally significant memorabilia. The Lincoln Preservation Foundation has provided historical panels and a model of the Grace Church restoration project. History and memorabilia will be on display and members will be available to discuss the project. Further information on the Grace Heritage Center can be found at lincolnpreservation.org. A reception will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 18. Hours for the exhibit are Fridays, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays/Sundays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free.

3/25/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

who’s bad:

LUCKETTS The Ultimate

Michae Jackson Experience Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

4/8/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00)

Walker McGuire NEW DATE

4/14/17 08:00 PM (Doors 07:00

Lucketts Spring Market Moving to Clarke County Lucketts’ annual Spring Market is moving outside of the village, and even the county, this year. Organizers announced on the Lucketts Store website last week that the decision has been made to stage the annual event at the Clarke County Fairgrounds in Berryville, May 19-21. They cited lack of space, and thus the need to turn down many interested vendors every year, and

parking shortages as the decision for the move. About 18-20 acres is needed for parking alone. The Clarke County Fairgrounds site was appealing for its ample parking, shaded tree areas, and easy access off Rt. 7, organizers said. “I truly feel like we have made the best decision for us, our vendors, and our customers, and I’m beyond excited to show you all what amazing potential this new venue has. Soon enough we’re going to be wondering why we didn’t do this a long time ago,” the website reads. Now in its 18th year, the three-day market attracts upwards of 8,000 visitors and features more than 200 vendors, showcasing painted furniture, vintage garden gems, architectural salvage, antiques, and more. Live music, beer gardens, food trucks, and engaging workshops round out the offerings. For more information on the Spring Market, go to luckettstore.com.

LOVETTSVILLE Gun Shop’s Sign Draws Objections A sign displayed in front of the Minuteman Arms gun shop by owner Warner Workman last week caused quite a stir in town, setting off a storm on social media and prompting complaints to the town office. The sign read “Liberalism is Evil, Arm Now” but was changed later in the week to “Beware of Snowflakes.” Mayor Bob Zoldos said the controversy provided a lesson in free speech. In his weekly newsletter, Zoldos noted that a 2015 Supreme Court ruling restricted localities’ efforts to regulate signs, holding them to be a form of constitutionally protected speech. But even if regulations could address the sign critics’ concerns, the mayor said it was not an issue in which the town government

should intervene. “While I disagree with the content of the sign, I absolutely agree with a citizen’s right to be able to say it. The framers clearly wanted speech (especially speech that is critical of government) to be able to be uttered without worry of reprisal from the government. Without the ability of the populace to criticize their government, tyranny would most certainly result,” he wrote. He suggested concerned residents talk civilly with Workman or post their own signs, or put their energies to work to help make Lovettsville an even better place to live by volunteering with a community organization or church.

Council Completes Work on Comp Plan Update After 18 months of work, the Town Council last week adopted revisions to the Lovettsville Comprehensive Plan. The plan includes a statement of three overarching town values: • Small Town Quality of Life: We support maintaining a peaceful, small town feel that fosters sustainable, essential services. • Historical and Environmental Stewardship: We support promoting a healthy environment for all citizens and preserving our cultural heritage. • Welcoming and Cooperative Community: We support existing and welcome new businesses, organizations and residents into the community, treating our neighbors with dignity and respect, and promoting volunteerism, community service and cooperation. The 66-page document is an update of the town plan adopted in 2011. A complete copy can be viewed on the town website, lovettsvilleva.gov, under the government tab.

Feb. 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2017

loudounnow.com

1/31/2017 11:19:34 AM

Untitled-1 1

[ BIZ ]

[ BIZ NOTES ] Parks Dept. Plans Summer Job Fair

loudounnow.com

Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services will hold a summer job fair on Thursday, March 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 20145 Ashbrook Place, Suite 170 in Ashburn. Seasonal summer job positions include summer camp supervisor, summer camp leader, adaptive recreation summer camp leader (working with special needs), instructor, seasonal maintenance worker, lifeguard, pool aide, pool manager, seasonal assistant park manager and facility supervisor. Interested applicants should go to loudoun.gov/jobs to review position requirements and submit an online application prior to the job fair. Applicants should bring a hard copy of their application(s) to the fair. Interviews will be conducted on site. For more information, call 703-777-0343 or email prcs@ loudoun.gov. Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Kathy Johnson, artisan trail coordinator at Artisans Center of Virginia, leads a discussion about the coming Loudoun County Artisan Trail.

Artisan Trail Launch Date in Sight BY DANIELLE NADLER

bout three dozen Loudoun County artisans gathered in Ashburn last week to hear how they can put their artwork, food, wine, beer, or whatever it is they produce, on the map—literally. The Feb. 8 luncheon, held over cold beers at Old Ox Brewery, was the second meeting to kick off the Loudoun County Artisan Trail, a new venture meant to highlight all-things locally crafted: at studios and galleries, farms, wineries, breweries, farmers markets, distilleries, cideries, restaurants, hotels, boutiques and other artisanal and agri-tourism businesses. The idea was birthed during an after-hours meeting at Loudoun Brewing Company with Visit Loudoun President Beth Erickson, Leesburg Economic Development Director Marantha Edwards, and artist and manager of downtown Leesburg’s Tryst Gallery

Lisa Strout. “We came together over a couple of pints and said how can we start to begin looking at Loudoun County as an arts destination,” Erickson said. And after ongoing conversations with artists and business leaders, the idea developed into a plan to market everything Loudoun County’s artisans—from potters and brewers to farmers and bedand-breakfast owners—have to offer together. Many told those few go-getters behind the project that it would likely take a couple of years to get off the ground. “But that’s not how things happen in Loudoun County,” Erickson said. Already, dozens of artisans have signed up to be a part of the initiative. The goal is to formally launch what Erickson called “the product” by this fall. That will entail distributing a printed brochure that will include a map showing all of the participating studios, breweries, wineries, markets and other artisan spots. The cost to participate is $100.

That fee also includes support from the Artisans Center of Virginia and a webpage on its website, artisanscenterofvirginia.org. Kathy Johnson, artisan trail coordinator at the center, said at the event today that she is eager to help get the Loudoun trail off the ground, but it will take a local, grassroots effort for it to be successful. Lovettsville artist Debbie Williamson signed up to be a part of the trail as soon as she heard about it. She and her husband, Scott, work out of their home studio, Butterfly Bend Pottery. “I knew right away I wanted to be a part of it. It’s a great idea,” she said. One of her friends, Kevin Crowe, is a potter near Charlottesville and has seen a great response since being listed on an artisan trail map there. “There are so many artists in Loudoun but a lot of them are tucked in corners throughout the county. This is a great way to highlight them.” dnadler@loudounnow.com

Visit Loudoun Opens Tourism Grant Process Visit Loudoun is accepting applications for its fiscal year 2017 Tourism Marketing Leverage Funds program. The deadline is March 3. The program provides matching funds to extend the reach of the industry, attract visitors and increase visitor spending through partnerships and leveraged funds. Visit Loudoun uses a competitive application process to identify the projects and programs that will have the greatest return on investment in

terms of visitor spending. Applications will be reviewed by a volunteer committee which will make recommendations to the Visit Loudoun board of directors.

A pre-application meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 5:30 p.m. at the Visit Loudoun Office, 112 G South St. SE in Leesburg. Interested attendees may RSVP to Greg Harp at 703-669-2008 or harp@visitloudoun. org. For more information about the program and to download the application, go to the Industry Page on Visit Loudoun’s website: visitloudoun.org/ tourism-industry.

Black Awarded Ethics Recognition Linda J. Black of LifeMark Securities in Leesburg is the recipient of the firm’s 2016 national Ethos Award for promoting the highest ethical standards in the financial services industry. Founded in 1983, L ifeMark is a nationally registered broker/ dealer and SEC and registered RIA leader in the Black securities industry. LifeMark provides an array of products and services to independent financial advisors, while maintaining the flexibility to rapidly adapt to changes within the marketplace and regulatory environments. Black holds the global financial steward designation, the highest certification for ethical practices in the securities industry, as well as certifications as a chartered financial counselor and as a retirement income chartered professional. She has worked as a financial advisor since 1998. Her office is at Waverly Park Mansion, 604 S. King St., Suite 208 in Leesburg.

Autobell Car Wash Inc. Opens New Location Autobell Car Wash Inc. has opened a new full-service facility at 45655 Shepard Drive in Sterling, in the former Sweetwater Splash Car Wash loBIZ NOTES >> 24

23 Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

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CSK-160 Marrwood Loudoun Now Ad 9.063 x 13.5 r2.indd 1

1/11/17 2:47 PM

loudounnow.com

Marrwood Drive | Aldie, VA 20105

ONE OF LOUDOUN COUNTY’S BEST SELLING JOBS!

[ BIZ NOTES ]

loudounnow.com

<< FROM 22 cation. Lucas Farrants, a Newport News, is the store manager, supervising 22 fulland part-time employees. Autobell is the family-owned and operated. As twhe nation’s second largest conveyor car wash company, it has 77 locations. The new wash, and all locations of Autobell, are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Celebrates Fifth Anniversary The Basics Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Brewer << FROM 3 School Board, which makes a final decision. Rachel Brewer said, “No matter the outcome, hearing these stories about students’ lives changed, we can say it has all been worth it.” School system administrators have declined to specify why Brewer is on leave because of liability concerns about discussing personnel matters publicly. But the move came as Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office launched an investi161213_LTP_print_ad_9-063x6-67_LoudounNow_HalfHoriz_crvs2.pdf 1 12/15/16 gation of Brian Damron, who served as Dominion’s band director from July

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CMY

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

in Leesburg will celebrate its fifth anniversary with a Saturday Feb. 18 open house, from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. “In the 5 years teaching Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to kids, wwwmen and women we have seen the positive change that the art brings to their lives and we’ve been growing each year thanks to the support from our students,” said Marco Moreno, owner and black belt under GM Relson Gracie. The event will include demonstrations and special offers for new students. The Gracie Jiu-Jitsu style was developed in Brazil by the Gracie family and proved its efficiency in different noholds-barred competitions. For more information, go to thebasicsgjj.com.

2012 to January 2015 under the leadership of Brewer. School records show that Brewer wrote a letter of recommendation for Damron that the band director submitted to Duval County Public Schools in Florida, as part of his application. Damron was later accused of making sexual advances toward a 15-year-old student there. No charges were filed, but the band director has since resigned. LCPS Music Supervisor Michael Pierson also wrote a letter of recommendation on Damron’s behalf, according to records from Duval County Public Schools, but has not been placed on leave. 12:56 AM

dnadler@loudounnow.com

Metro

Supervisors and staff members at Tuesday’s finance committee meeting emphasized again that the county realistically cannot back out of its Metro obligations. County Administrator Tim Hemstreet outlined some of what it would take to shelve the project—and what it would cost. According to Hemstreet, removing Loudoun from the WMATA compact

rgreene@loudounnow.com

No Backing Out Now

R. Buffington Jr. (R-Blue Ridge). Because the county’s authority to levy a gasoline sales tax is based on its inclusion in the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Zone, the county would lose authority for that 2 percent levy and the $5.7 million it is expected to bring in this fiscal year. Land values around the Silver Line plans, which have risen, contributing to county revenues through real estate taxes, would be expected to drop off. And the county could lose its ability to negotiate proffer agreements with developers. General Assembly action last year to restrict such deals included an exception for properties around Metro stations.

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posed capital costs triple over the current year. Now, Loudoun County staff members are trying to figure out what these higher costs will mean for the county government when it starts paying into Metro in 2019 and 2020, in anticipation of the Silver Line extension to Ashburn. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Technical Panel, which includes representatives from Metro jurisdictions, WMATA’s financial staff, and DC’s chief financial officer, now says the county could pay as much as $27.9 million more in its first year. The county’s current Metro funding plan, which includes local gas sales tax revenues, a 30 percent match for capital funding from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, Metro tax district revenues, and bond financing, falls short by $28.3 million in 2020. In fiscal year 2026, the county is coming up short $69.9 million with its current plans, all before taking out bus costs, allowing for budget negotiations, or accounting for possible new revenue streams for Metro or changes in how it’s funded. “For Loudoun, I think the next step is to still better understand even the existing projections,” Letourneau said. He asked county staff to come up with more refined projections: “We know what we’re putting out today is not accurate, if for no other reason than they’re elevated probably by 25 or 30 percent just because of the bus issues alone.” County staff members attempted to break out bus service costs from the estimates before tonight’s meeting, but could not finish that work in time. Letourneau, who represents Loudoun on the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission, said the spike in cost is manageable for Loudoun, but gives new urgency to a regional discussion on paying for Metro. “For us, you think about what’s in our Capital Improvement Program, $12 million or $15 million or $30 million even is not going to cause us huge issues,” Letourneau said. “We handle those types of expenses in our CIP, not that we want to, but we do all the time. We’re the jurisdiction that’s building $35 million elementary schools every year.” He said Loudoun can accommodate the extra costs in its $2.4 billion budget. But other localities cannot, meaning there must be a serious conversation about how Metro is supported. “There’s been a lot of talk about all that kind of stuff in the past, but it hasn’t really been serious,” Letourneau said. “This is turning into a more serious discussion, because now there are actual budget projections that are more realistic for the first time that are staring people in the face.” One of the major problems Metro faces is that it has no dedicated, reliable source of funding and must renegotiate its budget with the entire WMATA compact membership—made up of 11 jurisdictions—each year. Without a totally reliable source of funding, Metro cannot borrow at reasonable rates, meaning it can’t take on debt to finance its capital costs, the usual way to pay for major infrastructure projects; it must pay up front.

would require that the General Assembly action to remove the county from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Zone which it created in 1966, followed by agreement from all members of the compact. Under the terms of its $195 million federal transportation infrastructure loan, Loudoun would still be responsible for completing construction of Metro tracks, stations, and parking garages—and repay the loan. Defaulting on that loan would likely impact Loudoun’s credit rating, driving up the cost of borrowing for the county and having serious impacts on its own capital planning. “We finish the construction, we pay back the debt, and then the service just doesn’t occur even though we built the stations,” summarized Supervisor Tony

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 1

25 Developing a dedicated revenue stream, such as from the state and federal governments, could help push costs down for Metro. Currently, Virginia and the federal government pay only capital costs to Metro and do not contribute to operational expenses. The proposed 2018 Metro budget does not include an increase in Virginia’s $50 million contribution. In the example of the City of Alexandria, which could see its capital contribution nearly triple from $11 million to $37 million in 2018, the COG technical panel estimated paying for Metro capital projects with debt financing instead of up front. That could reduce the city’s cost by $111 million over the next ten years. In April, the technical panel will come to the Council of Governments with options for paying for the higher cost of Metro. In the meantime, Loudoun, too, will again adjust its budget plans. The Board of Supervisors’ Transportation and Land Use Committee is expected to look at the new projections on Friday.

[ LOCO LIVING ]

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Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Addie Rodgers sticks labels on rye whiskey at Catoctin Creek Distilling Company in Purcellville.

Distiller Greg Moore draws out a fresh batch of Mosby’s Spirit at Catoctin Creek Distilling Company.

Catoctin Creek Distilling: Thinking Globally, Acting Locally BY JAN MERCKER

t Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, small is beautiful, but growth is gorgeous. The Purcellville-based distillery, known for its flagship Roundstone Rye whisky, is ramping up to take its brand national. But at the same time, owners Becky and Scott Harris are committed to keeping their focus local—including a program creating fun, boutique bottlings for area restaurants. Last month, Catoctin Creek announced that beverage giant Constellation Brands acquired a minority stake in the company via its Constellation Ventures arm, which Becky Harris calls an incubator for small craft spirit companies. “With the advent of increased competition even locally, it really takes more resources to support your brand,” she said. “We were trying to grow organically but it gets more and more difficult to see sales consistently stay level when you don’t have the support that you need. We were looking for a strategic partner.” Catoctin Creek has been racking up awards and fans in the Virginia, Maryland and DC region and has made inroads in the competitive New York spirits market. But with accolades from national media piling up, the owners decided it was time to take the brand nationwide. And that’s where Constellation’s money and expertise come in. “I think they see what we were trying to do, and we see what they’re trying to do. It really kind of meshed,” Becky Harris said. But the Harrises—Becky, a former chemical engineer who is the company’s master distiller, and Scott, a former

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Becky Harris, co-owner and chief distiller of Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, checks the PH on a batch of rye whiskey.

Meet The Distiller: Featuring Catoctin Creek Distilling Company’s Becky and Scott Harris 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22 Copperwood Tavern 20465 Exchange St. Ashburn Details: copperwoodtavern.com IT guy who is the company’s general manager—are still very much in charge and focused on the local market, even as they look to expand. And the distillery’s cozy downtown Purcellville tasting room remains a vibrant part of its busi-

ness, as does a series of partnerships with area restaurants and breweries. Next week, the new Copperwood Tavern at One Loudoun officially rolls out its Virginia Heritage Cask whisky, made special for the restaurant by Harris and her team. The new bottling has been available since mid-January at the restaurant’s two locations (in Shirlington and Ashburn) and has been flying off the shelves, said Copperwood’s beverage director Jody Hessler. “We had people sitting and waiting at our restaurants for it to arrive,” Hessler said. “I was thinking we’d go through six to 10 bottles a week between both [locations]...We’ve blown through 84 bottles in four weeks.” Hessler, who is known for his passion

Courtesy of Copperwood Tavern

Copperwood Old Fashioned

for regional craft spirits—and his willingness to drive hundreds of miles to get them—said the production process was a fun, educational experience for his team and created a product patrons love. Hessler and his team sampled several barrels in a range of taste profiles before selecting a darker colored whisky with honey undertones. And Harris specifically brought the whisky to an alcohol content of 88 proof at Hessler’s request in honor of 1788, the year Virginia became a state. The Copperwood team then returned to help bottle and label the special blend. Hessler has used the Virginia HeriCATOCTIN CREEK >> 32

Feb. 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2017

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[ THINGS TO DO ] LOCO CULTURE THIRD THURSDAY AT TRYST GALLERY Thursday, Feb. 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Tryst Gallery, 312 E. Market St., Leesburg. Details: trystgallery.com The gallery launches a monthly series of arts-related networking events and conversations. The inaugural event features author Linda Sittig, whose new novel “Last Curtain Call,” is based on an 1894 coal strike in western Allegany County, MD.

MIDDLEBURG WINTER WEEKEND SALE Friday, Feb. 17 and Saturday, Feb. 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, Feb. 19 and Monday, Feb. 20 as posted by participating shops in Middleburg. Details: middleburg.org Hunt for treasures with special sales at the town’s unique shops and visit charming restaurants, inns and museums over the holiday weekend.

REMEMBRANCES OF RECTOR’S CROSSROADS Saturday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m.; Middleburg Montessori School, 7274 Rectors Lane, Marshall. Details: mosbyheritagearea.org Mosby Heritage Area Association’s Legends by Lanternlight series continues with this evening tour of Rector’s Crossroads (modern-day

Tryst Gallery Launches Third Thursday Events Tryst Gallery will host new Third Thursday events beginning Feb. 16, with each month focusing on a different topic and networking opportunity. This Thursday’s event, 5:30-7:30 p.m., will feature a book signing and remarks by local author Linda Sittig, who’s novel, “Last Curtain Call,” is based on the 1894 coal strike in western Allegany County, MD. Bring your book to have it signed or purchase one from Sittig at the signing. Other Third Thursday events will include artist demonAtoka) in nearby Fauquier County. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for students.

HISTORY TALK: THE FAIRFAX LAND GRANTS IN LOUDOUN Sunday, Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m.; Saint James UMC, 10 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville. Contact: 540-822-9194 The Lovettsville Historical Society presents a talk from historian Wynne Saffer on the land grants to the fifth and sixth Lords Fairfax by King Charles II of England—which makes up what is now Loudoun County—and how the land was eventually sold or leased to settlers and plantation owners. Event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.

strations, gallery talks, musical performances, and book signings. Gallery owner Jim Sisley said he enjoys promoting all types of artistic endeavors and hopes visitors will appreciate the wide range of talent the area provides. “Our goal at Tryst is to enhance the visitor experience and to change the dialogue about local art,” Sisley stated. “We have very talented artists in Loudoun County and we want to give them a platform to display their high-quality products in a unique environment.” Tryst Gallery is located at 312 E. Market St. in Leesburg and is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 5:30-9 p.m. during First Fridays, 5:30-7 p.m. during Third Thursdays, or by appointment. See more information at trystgallery.com.

FILM SCREENING: “THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE”

Edwards Ferry Road, Leesburg. Details: georgecmarshall.org

Monday, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.; Regal Dulles Town Center 10 Theater, 21100 Dulles Town Circle, Dulles. Details: bridlepathsva.org

William B. McAllister, Special Projects Division Chief at the U.S. Department of State, discusses how improvements in public health lead to the gridlock of trench warfare during World War I. The event is free for Marshall Center members and by donation for nonmembers. RSVP is required.

The Bridle Paths equine assisted therapies nonprofit hosts a screening of the film “Thank You for Your Service” exploring war trauma and mental health issues among veterans. Tickets are $12. Advance tickets are available at gathr.us/ screening/19191.

HISTORY TALK: PUBLIC HEALTH AND TRENCH WARFARE Tuesday, Feb. 21, 7-8:30 p.m.; George C. Marshall International Center, 217

ON STAGE ‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’ Friday, Feb. 17, Saturday, Feb. 18, Friday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday matinees at

JUMP TO >> 29

[ MORE THINGS TO DO ] 1:30 p.m.; J. Lupton Simpson Middle School, 490 Evergreen Mills Road, Leesburg. Details: thepickwickplayers.com The Pickwick Players present Hans Christian Anderson’s wistful story of a mermaid who falls hopelessly in love with a fish-eating human—complete with magical transformations, colorful set and costumes and a happy ending.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 7 p.m. John Champe High School, 41535 Sacred Mountain St. Aldie. Contact: 703-447-4826 Fairfax-Loudoun Music Fellowship hosts its 30th annual Piano Ensemble Festival featuring 200 students and 16 teachers with guest conductor Frank Conlon. The concert is free and opened to the public, but donations will be accepted.

Friday, Feb. 17, 6-7:30 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org ArtsPower has turned Marcus Pfister’s bestselling book, “The Rainbow Fish,” into a delightful and touching musical. Tickets are $8.

Courtesy of The Edge Dance Company

MALONE BENEFIT DANCE CONCERT Saturday, Feb. 18, 7 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org Enjoy an inspiring evening of

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<< FROM 29 contemporary dance with the performers of the Edge Company, the Ballet Theatre of Ashburn’s contemporary dance ensemble. The performance benefits the Teri and Shari Malone Foundation, which offers scholarships to talented middle schoolers. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 3 to 18.

GALLERY COFFEEHOUSE READERS THEATER: ‘LOVE LETTERS’ Sunday, Feb. 19, 6:30-8 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane Purcellville. Details: franklinparkartscenter.org Actors from Imagine That! interpret the written word in this sophisticated, cosmopolitan drama. Admission is $8.

in support of Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue. Event also features a CPR kiosk, raffle prizes and a silent auction for a fire truck ride to school or work. All are welcome and River Creek membership is not required.

Thursday, Feb. 23, 3-7 p.m.; Belly Love Brewing Company, 725 E. Main St., Purcellville. Details: locoaletrail.com As part of the LoCo Ale Trail’s monthlong celebration of local craft beers, Belly Love hosts an afternoon of fun featuring special brews from more than a dozen local breweries, along with tunes from DC 101’s DJ Roche, food and giveaways.

NIGHTLIFE Thursday, Feb. 16, 8-10 p.m.; King’s Tavern, 19 S. King St., Leesburg. Details: kingstavernandwinebar.com

MARTINIS MATTER FUNDRAISER FOR ASHBURN FIRE AND RESCUE Saturday, Feb. 18, 6-9 p.m.; River Creek Club, 43800 Olympic Blvd, Leesburg. Details: ashburnfirerescue.org Enjoy signature martinis like the Liquid Defibrillator and Too Hot to Handle

combine everything from country to southern rock to rap, along with true-to-life lyrics. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of show.

FEBREWARY THIRSTDAY

LIVE MUSIC: JEFFERSON STREET STRUTTERS

LIBATIONS

Whether Davis is talking about his family or politics, you never know where he’s going until he gets there, but you’ll enjoy the ride! Wendy Wroblewski opens. $20 admission includes a glass of wine.

The Jefferson Street Strutters return to King’s Tavern for a one-night-only showcase of Dixieland, early jazz, ragtime and American popular songs from the 1900s through the early 1940s. No cover.

COMEDY NIGHT WITH TYRONE DAVIS Saturday, Feb. 18, 7-9 p.m.; Bogati Winery, 35246 Harry Byrd Highway, Round Hill. Details: bogatiwinery.com

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Courtesy of Trinity House Café

LIVE MUSIC: ALEX W. YOUNG Friday, Feb. 17, 7-9 p.m.; Trinity House Café, 101 E. Market St., Leesburg. Details: trinityhousecafe.com Country, pop, classic rock, contemporary Christian, and originals from a DMV favorite. No cover.

LIVE MUSIC: THE LACS Saturday, Feb. 18, 8 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com These south Georgia genre benders

Courtesy of Smokehouse Live

LIVE MUSIC: CRIS JACOBS Saturday, Feb. 18, 8:30 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com The former front man for Baltimore’s The Bridge, Jacobs enchants listeners with his inspired, poignant songwriting and soulfully transcendent voice. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

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Catoctin Creek << FROM 26 tage Cask whisky to create a signature cocktail—the Copperwood Old Fashioned—featuring hand-brandied cherries and house-made bitters made with Virginia Lightning Moonshine from Culpeper’s Belmont Farms distillery. Becky and Scott Harris, along with their popular Virginia brand ambassador John Shope, will be on hand at Copperwood One Loudoun’s Meet the Distiller event Wednesday, Feb. 22, offering samples of the product and discussing the production process. Meanwhile, Becky Harris said, 2017 will be a transition year for Catoctin Creek as she and Scott plan their growth with their new partner, including working toward national distribution in ma-

jor markets and expanding production of their core brands to go along with it. This will mean growing their local production team and creating an expanded network of distributors around the country. But Purcellville will remain home, Harris said. Their current building on Main Street will support both their production and tasting room needs—at least for the next few years. “A lot of times people think [the investment] means everything is changing, and that’s the last thing we were looking for,” she said. “We’ve really been focused on making the best Virginia rye whisky that we can make, and that hasn’t changed. We’re excited to be given the opportunity to take it across the country.”

[ MORE THINGS TO DO ] << FROM 30

COMING UP LOUDOUN GROWN EXPO Saturday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Bush Tabernacle, 250 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville. Details: loudoungrownexpo.org Visit more than 30 farmers, wineries and artisans at this annual showcase of all-things local. Admission is free for Purcellville residents and $2 per person or $3 per family for all others.

For more information on Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, go to catoctincreekdistilling.com.

Courtesy of Tally Ho Theatre

LIVE MUSIC: ERIC GALES AND DAVY KNOWLES Thursday, Feb. 23, 8 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Patrons enjoy the fruits of the Catoctin Creek Distilling Company team’s labor on a recent evening in Purcellville.

Gales is a guitar virtuoso who has drawn comparisons to Hendrix. Knowles is a Chicago blues-rock up and comer. They’re joining forces for an evening of unbeatable tunes. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door.

Courtesy of Tally Ho Theatre

GEORGE CLINTON AND PARLIAMENT FUNKADELIC Friday, Feb. 24, 8 p.m.; Tally Ho Theatre, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: tallyholeesburg.com The funk legend brings his Mardi Gras Madness tour to Leesburg. Tickets are $55 in advance, $65 at the door.

[ OBITUARY ] Cora Dianne Jones, 52 of Martinsburg, WV, formerly of Loudoun, passed on Wed. February 8, 2017. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 at First Mount Olive Baptist Church located at 216 Loudoun Street, SW Leesburg, Virginia 20175. Online condolences may be made to the family at loudounfuneralchapel.com

To Place an Obituary, Death Notice or Memoriam

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Contact Lindsay Morgan lmorgan@loudounnow.com 703.770.9723

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Education Specialist (Part-time) The Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District (LSWCD) is seeking a part-time Education Specialist to work 18 hours each week. The District office is located in Leesburg, VA. The successful candidate will assist in carrying out the Education objectives of the District. This includes educational outreach for K-12, focusing on environmental and conservation education. Minimum education and experience requirements include: any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school supplemented by college level courses in education or an environmental field. Completion of Project WILD, WET, and LEARNING TREE is a plus, as is marketing experience. Requires the ability to work a flexible schedule that may include days, evening, or weekends. Requires a valid driver’s license. Background check required.

Application packets must be postmarked by Friday, March 3, 2017. The Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer.

We offer benefits to fulltime employees such as health/dental insurance, vacation, simple IRA retirement. We also offer direct deposit. Please apply online at http://www.icareabouthealth.net

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Starting salary: $15-$18/hr. depending on education and experience. No benefits are offered with this position. For more information, contact Suzanne Brown, District Operations Manager at suzie.brown@lswcd.org or visit www.lswcd.org for an application.

Busy Home Healthcare Agency established in 1993 with offices in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties looking for CNA, HHA or PCA. Nursing Students also Encouraged to Apply! for immediate work for all shifts.

Large family practice in Loudoun County looking for a FT LPN or MA who is compassionate, energetic and loves working with a team. Pediatric and or family practice experience preferred but willing to train the right candidate. EHR experience highly recommended. We offer health, dental and vision insurance as well as direct deposit, 401k and many other benefits. Please send your resume to lgray@lmgdoctors.com or fax to 703-726-0804, attention Lisa.

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[ OPINION ]

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The Top Priority The results of the residents’ survey commissioned biannually by the county government were released last week with the spotlight on a finding that growth and development had supplanted traffic as Loudoun’s biggest problem. Pollsters said that was the first time in a decade that congestion didn’t rank as the top community concern. That result serves as both a vote of confidence and a key challenge for the county’s leadership. A decrease in the dissatisfaction level with the county’s road and transit systems can be tied directly to the massive investment of local and, finally, state funds made to address the daily gridlock. Yes, we’re still 18 months or so away from a free-flowing Rt. 7, but motorists can monitor the progress as they drive past the work zones each day. Missing links have been connected. Lanes are being added. And there is more work in the pipeline. Taken together, the projects give the appearance that, after decades of inaction, transportation is under control. Growth is another story. In the development arena, county leaders have a lot of balls in the air and it’s not clear whether the juggling act will end with a cohesive community development strategy or a hodgepodge of policy changes that could open the floodgates to residential growth, even unintentionally. While all eyes are on the Envision Loudoun effort to update the countywide vision, numerous smaller planning amendments and zoning rule changes continue to percolate through various levels of governmental review. Each is driven with urgency by advocates seeking to address some public policy or market need. Individually, each also may have merit. The problem is that county leaders haven’t yet established their long-term comprehensive goals. That work won’t be done until sometime next year, at best. Supervisors may, in the short term, be voting on policies that hamper or undermine their ability to implement the plan they are devoting two years of work to develop. We don’t know and they don’t either. At times, previous boards in the midst of similar undertakings have put the brakes on ancillary planning and zoning projects to provide the best opportunity for their new plan to succeed. Today’s supervisors should consider that approach. The scale, type, location and timing of future development will drive the need for—and cost of—schools, transportation and community services for decades to come. After they have their vision in place they will better understand planning and zoning changes needed to implement it. As we know from this year’s survey, getting the growth strategy right is the top priority.

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[ LETTERS ] Policy Matters

a high-deductible health plan. Really? For those who desperately need Editor: the insurance and live paycheck to Rep. Comstock, like many of her paycheck, putting money away in an colleagues, is being besieged by con- HSA is not an option. Similarly, for tax stituents who see their health care credits. If my kid gets desperately ill in threatened by Republican promises June, a tax credit next April—even if to “repeal and replace” the Affordable it covers the cost—does me very little Care Act—or with their more recently good. chastised moniker, “repeal and repair.” Finally, we have the great canard: While Rep. Comstock and her colallowing insurance plans to be sold leagues could take a more analytical across state lines. This is race to the botand deliberative approach to health tom in coverage for everyone. Health care reform; they are instead falling insurance is regulated at the state level. back on policy platitudes that will not help those folks screaming at town If policies can be sold across state lines, hall meetings. In fact, their quick fixes insurance companies will base their plans in the most hospitable state (least would make coverage worse. Take high risk pools, a tried and coverage required) and sold nationfailed approach of clustering all the wide. Think Mississippi plans sold in sick and expensive people in state Northern Virginia or New York. This structured plans—presumably making is a license for snake-oil health plans. To be clear; the one thing all these coverage for the young and healthy less “solutions” have in common is that expensive. The problem is that these they ration health care. And not only plans have substantial waiting periods—a slight problem for someone do they ration care, it is limited for the suddenly diagnosed with cancer—and sickest, poorest and most vulnerable so a limited pool of funding. If there are the healthy and the wealthy can have 10,000 people who qualify for coverage cheaper care. It’s not only inequitable; in a high-risk pool, but only enough it’s immoral. Republicans claim that their plans dollars for 5,000; well, then, tough luck will drive down costs by making health for those who didn’t get sick quickly care more competitive. The irony is enough. that the ACA was built on Republican Similarly, with Republican plans to block grant Medicaid or impose per free-market strategy that’s been kickcapita caps on recipients. This would ing around Washington think tanks place a limit on the amount of medi- for decades and its state-based health cal care that eligible recipients could exchanges are designed to do exactly receive. Either services will not be that. So now, backed into a corner and available and/or these people would have to pay out-of-pocket beyond their vilifying a health care strategy they at cap. More than a third of children with one time championed, Republicans are cancer depend on Medicaid for their clinging to policy scraps as solutions to treatment. What happens to them and systemic problems. Sometimes slogans and platitudes their families when they’ve reached can substitute for substance. But this their cap? Then we have another Band-Aid: is one of those instances where policy health savings accounts. The insured matters. Rep. Comstock and her colplaces money in a tax-benefited acLETTERS >> 37 count to pay for medical expenses in

[ LETTERS ] leagues would do their constituents— and themselves—a great favor by taking a deep breath and a comprehensive look at the cost drivers and incentives that make care expensive and craft a plan that is balanced and guarantees access for everyone. — George Dahlman, Purcellville

Need a Real Town Hall

her about her views on Defunding Planned Parenthood and why she did not attend the women’s march. Also, it was clear that she had no plan to fix or replace the ACA. As a former federal employee, I was appalled that she voted for the Holman rule. This action shows she is no friend of the federal worker, many of whom live in our district. Rep. Comstock needs to hold a series of in-person town hall meetings to hear from more citizens. She should find the time to have a meeting during her District Work Session in February. My husband and I felt set up by her handlers. They got our names and addresses, but provided a very bad platform for a town hall.

— Anthony V. Fasolo, Leesburg

— Nancy Feeney, Purcellville

Disappointed

A Costly Experiment

Editor: I listened in on Rep. Comstock’s teletown hall and was very disappointed with the results. I was on the line for about 10 minutes and then wanted to ask a question. I proceeded, as they suggested, but when I pressed the button to ask the question, I was completely cut off. I could not get back into the discussion after that. During the time I was able to listen, she was very vague and no one was able to ask follow up questions. If I had a chance, I was going to ask

Editor: Earlier this month, Leesburg residents had an opportunity to meet with Del. Randy Minchew and Sen. Jennifer Wexton in a Town Hall meeting at Rust Library. Members of Community Advocates for Education joined our neighbors in expressing concerns about the Parental Choice Education Savings Account bill that has been introduced again by Del. David LaRock and supported by Del. Minchew. I was glad that Del. Minchew reaffirmed a commitment to strong public schools, but also concerned that he insists on a

blanket support of “school choice.” We may not be able to afford both. Vouchers (and their cousins, Education Savings Accounts) will drain money from the public school system, increase segregation in school populations, and risk setting off a chain reaction of white flight and underfunding. Indiana’s voucher system has cost taxpayers $130 million over the past five years, and the state’s education budget is now in deficit. Pennsylvania and New York are also facing education funding deficits after implementing voucher programs. LaRock’s bill (HB1605) would allow students of any income level to “opt out” of public schools and receive roughly $2,500-3,600 annually for expense accounts to offset the costs of homeschooling or private school tuition. With an initial price tag of $380K ($330K in subsequent years), our local school district would not only lose state funding, but also would also bear all of the administrative cost and burden for this program. With an average cost of $10K/year for private schools in Virginia (one local private school charges $25K/ year) the state-funded expense account would not even come close to covering private school tuition for lower-income families. However, it’s a nice “coupon” for affluent families who can already afford, or almost afford, private LETTERS >> 38

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Editor: I was excited to read that Congresswoman Barbara Comstock had finally decided to conduct a town hall meeting after so many of us had urged her to do so and she had not. However, my excitement abated a bit when I learned how this “town hall” meeting was to be conducted. We had to sign up one day ahead and give her our home phone number (which I did) and we would be contacted. I wanted to ask her about the recent travel ban or how she and her colleagues were going to finally provide better health care that would cover pre-existing conditions, allow those 26 and under to stay on their parents plans and cost less). Her call-in show started at 7:30 p.m. and I was contacted at 7:40 p.m. and asked to join in. I was then instructed to touch “star 3” if I wanted to ask a question which I did. I was then asked by a staffer at 8:20 p.m. what I wanted to discuss and told her. I told her what

I wanted to ask. However at 8:30 p.m. Congresswoman Comstock stopped the phonein saying there were 6,000 calls and she could not get to them all. My question then for congresswoman Comstock is why not hold a regular Town Hall meeting with real people in the same room at a large place like National Conference Center? People could provide questions ahead of time and at the door. Politico has reported Rep. Comstock scheduled two town hall forums on Saturday but failed to appear at either one. Apparently, she was concerned the questions from her outraged constituents would be too hard to answer, so is this why she chose the call-in route?

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 36

[ LETTERS ]

loudounnow.com

<< FROM 37 school tuition. If the universal voucher program in Nevada is an example, higher income families in better neighborhoods will apply disproportionately for PCESAs. Because race and socioeconomic status are linked, the program, if widely implemented, could lead to the concentration of poor and minority students in public schools, a form of de facto segregation. When economically advantaged families opt out of public schools, it’s not just the funds that schools lose. We also lose parent volunteers and PTA dollars, further weakening our schools and prompting even more students to leave. We should be wary of the nationwide PR campaign by choice advocates. Although it sounds like a good thing, and innovative freedom of choice is marketed as the answer to all of the challenges facing education of our young people, decades of study have shown that charter schools, vouchers systems, and online schools do not save tax dollars, and they do not result in better academic outcomes than public schools. However, they do weaken the public school systems and result in increased segregation by race, income and religion. A strong public school system, like good roads, hospitals, fire departments and capable law enforcement, benefits our community and our economy in many ways. Although charter and pri-

vate schools, like public schools, can be successful and serve our students well, we must be careful not to place too much faith in the hype surrounding the school choice marketing campaign. It’s an experiment that could prove very costly, not only to the taxpayer but also to our children’s education. — Paula Callaghan, Sharon Hamilton, Jack Lechelt, Linda McCray, Sara Montelone, Nicole Reid, Sherry Wetherill Community Advocates for Education, Steering Committee

Enlightened Editor: I just read the article in the New York Times about five boys given a “punishment” of reading books that will open their minds after vandalizing an historic school house. Two things. First, this is an enlightened idea and I commend the decision. I’m an educator in Hong Kong and this is exactly what the world needs right now. Second, don’t call it a “punishment.” The boys should be told they are lucky and have an opportunity that not many are given these days. So let’s move away from the idea of using the word punishment, because we cannot link the words punishment and reading in any connotative ways. Well done. — Maninder Kalsi, Hong Kong

Construction << FROM 1 nals are another area.” Those projects require specialized expertise, limiting the number of contractors who will bid. Loudoun is still working through a backlog of road projects that were put on hold because of tight budgets in the recession, as well as trying to catch up to its explosive growth in the past several years. Kroboth said a 2013 study identified 103 missing links in eastern Loudoun’s transportation network, and estimated the county has worked through about 10 percent of them. The county’s surge of construction projects and the recent boom in private development in the area are also competing against a project of historic proportions. “There is a tremendous amount of resources that are being committed to the Metrorail project,” Kroboth said. “Let’s face it, it is one of the largest public works projects under construction in the entire country at this point in time.” The county also faces regulatory headaches, limited staffing, and utility

Board finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said those kinds of unexpected costs can snowball a project’s cost. “Columbia Gas had us go dig up and then lay an entirely new gas line across the project, at a cost of like $2 million. And that in turn just spirals it, because you delay the project, which then raises costs more,” Letourneau said. One of Loudoun’s biggest markets, data, is also one of its most difficult utilities to work around. Kroboth said fiber optic companies will lay a conduit, then lease space in it to 10 other companies, meaning the county has to chase down every company that leases space in that conduit. Sometimes those customers are government agencies with secure facilities, making information difficult to find. “We hear ‘my client, but we can’t tell you who the client is’ a lot of times,” Tello said. And it’s a booming market. Kroboth told the story of one developer who tried to build on a lot with two fiber lines running along the front of the property, but fiber development moved faster than permitting. “By the time they got through their land use approval process and they

By the time they got through their land use approval process and they were ready to start construction, those two fiber lines turned into 53 fiber lines. — Joe Kroboth companies that don’t negotiate their construction and relocation fees. The county’s construction projects often have to go through a battery of other government offices for approval, such as VDOT, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Army Corps of Engineers. “Sometimes it takes an unbelievable amount of time to get plans approved,” Kroboth said. Road projects in particular have to be pre-approved by VDOT according to their design and whether the contractor the county hires is in good standing with VDOT, because the county has to work to VDOT’s standards and needs VDOT to take over maintenance of the road when it’s finished. The contractors have been authorized by VDOT and follow the appropriate procedures. “We don’t want to be at the end of the day responsible for a $15 million road project because they didn’t do something appropriate with VDOT, or VDOT won’t accept it because something happened on another job with that contractor,” Kroboth said. Utility companies can also drive project costs far above expectations. “It’s not just a cost issue,” Tello said. “We don’t have a lot of negotiation ability. Holding that portion of the work to a schedule is equally as challenging.” Because the county has no real ability to negotiate the cost or timeline for relocating utility lines, several projects have seen higher costs and delays. Last year, Columbia Gas demanded $1.44 million to relocate a gas pipeline near Mooreview Parkway and $1.7 million to relocate one near Claiborne Parkway. At that time supervisors likened those costs, which were far above what the county expected, to extortion.

were ready to start construction, those two fiber lines turned into 53 fiber lines,” Kroboth said. And the county staff works long hours to keep up with everything in the county’s Capital Improvement Program. “The manpower that it takes from county staff to put that plan together, manage that plan, then actually make that plan happen and constantly review the plan, keep everything on track, while adhering to the sound fiscal policies that the board has established which give us that AAA rating—that requires a lot of very dedicated staff time,” said Erin McClellan, Loudoun’s director of Management and Budget. While the county’s needs and budget have grown over the years, the county’s staffing hasn’t kept pace, she said. “If you look at how big our CIP was 10 years ago and now, it’s just surprising that we’ve been able to make that jump with the staff that we have,” McClellan said. “We’ve gotten some additions over the years, but I don’t believe it’s keeping pace with the workload.” Projects cost more when they take longer to start or finish. The county estimates costs go up by 4 percent a year—which means even without any other complicating factors, delaying a project makes it more expensive. Kroboth used the example of the Loudoun County courthouse expansion in Leesburg, an ongoing $65 million project. By that estimate, every month the project is delayed cost the county $217,000. Projects that fall behind can also be forced to redesign if regulations change before they are built, further snowballCONSTRUCTION BOOM >> 39

Construction ing escalating costs. The county has only so much ability to pay for capital projects, and if costs get out of control, projects could be pushed back, threatening the county’s plan to keep up with its own growth. But county leaders say they see the problem and it can be addressed.

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But Buona said the county is addressing the problem before it gets out of control, and is taking steps to make sure it doesn’t pose a threat to the county’s Capital Improvement Program, which outlines the county’s construction projects over the next six years. For one thing, the county has

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Staying on Top

under to get it done.” The county will instead begin acquiring right-of-way earlier in the design process for a project, and using eminent domain when that process does not produce timely results. In that way the county would gain control of a right-of-way sooner, and the price could be negotiated or settled by a court later. County leaders believe as a community with growing revenues and a flawless credit rating, Loudoun has flexibility to adapt its Capital Improvement Program to address problems as they come up. “I think we’ve recognized it proactively, so I think we’re in a position to work the issues so that it doesn’t become a problem for us,” Buona said.

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“I think the problem you’ve got is that the contractors only have so many resources, and so they can only bid so many opportunities,” said Supervisor Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn). “… Right now they’re being more selective because there’s so many opportunities for them to be bidding on.” Dave Speed, vice president of William A. Hazel Inc., said the government market is heating up. “I see there’s a lot of growth in the transportation market in Loudoun County, potentially,” Speed said. “We’ve experienced it, but we’re on the tip of the iceberg now with Metrorail coming out there. It’s just going to keep growing and growing and growing.” William A. Hazel Inc., based in Chantilly, is a frequent bidder on county contracts, and holds the $4.3 million contract to extend Mooreview Parkway from Croson Lane to Old Ryan Road, among others. Robert Phillips, manager of Phillips Construction LLC, agreed that government contracting “has been more brisk during 2016 than it was for several years.” Phillips, based in Kentucky, is another frequent bidder on county projects, and holds a $7.5 million contract to construct Tall Cedars Parkway between Gum Spring Road and Pinebrook Road—a bid that came in above the county’s estimates. Speed said although public works projects are still growing, they constitute only a comparatively small part of what his company does, and the private market might be slowing. “The last 20 years, Loudoun really grew exponentially, and there were always multiple master plan communities,” Speed said. “[Now] we just don’t see it. Maybe they’re out there, but we don’t see them in 2018, or maybe even 2019.” Speed said now the only large subdivision community still under construction in Loudoun is Willowsford. Looking ahead, he added, the company will have to adapt to a changing market. “We see that the market is steady,” Speed said. “And you know, I see that probably 2017 will be steady. But further out, 2018, 2019, it’s not so clear that it’s going to remain this way. The county has increased their construction, but the developers, I think, are slowing down.”

vate development market after years of building multiple major developments at once. “In a couple of years we may be over the hump and we may not be having as many problems with this, but the large amount of construction underway today is manifesting itself in a lot of different ways,” Letourneau said. And the county is streamlining the process to obtain right-of-way for transportation projects in an effort to avoid a negotiating tactic by landowners hoping to negotiate higher prices though delays. “What we’ve had is repeatedly, as a tactic, landowners and their attorneys have delayed the right-of-way acquisition process with the county,” Letourneau said. “And they know that time is on their side, because the more they can drag it out, the more the costs goes up, and the more pressure the board is

Feb. 16 – 22, 2017

<< FROM 38

been reaching out to more contractors. “We’re trying to build up our bidders list,” Buona said. “We’re trying to get a large cadre of potential bidders on this. … We’re advertising more aggressively than we traditionally did.” County staff members say they are also getting better at anticipating costs, including utility costs, as they get more years of experience building roads under their belts. Staff members have also asked the board to fund a new position whose job will be to understand and coordinate with utility companies and their costs. The county has also begun to build bigger contingency funds into its budget, allowing for major unexpected costs. Major Metrorail construction in Loudoun is expected to wrap up before 2020, further freeing up resources, and contractors report a slowing pri-

Feb. 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2017