Loudoun Now for Nov. 9, 2017 by Loudoun Now

LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

[ Vol. 2, No. 52 ]

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[Nov. 9 – 15, 2017 ]

Let the Jingle Jam joy commence

Sea of Blue Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Vanessa Maddox, who won the Leesburg council race, embraces Wendy Gooditis on Election Day. In a huge upset, Gooditis unseated three-term Republican delegate Randy Minchew.

Loudoun GOP Loses All But 1 House Seat LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT Democrats pulled off a decisive sweep of Loudoun County on Tuesday night, propelling Ralph Northam to the governor’s seat and reshaping the county’s General Assembly delegation. The Democrats’ statewide ticket— Northam, lieutenant governor candidate Justin Fairfax and Attorney General Mark Herring—dominated in Loudoun, pulling about 60 percent of the votes in their races. In the House of Delegates, Del. Dave LaRock (33rd) ended the night as the

only Republican standing in Loudoun. Veteran Republican delegates Tag Greason (32nd), Randy Minchew (10th) and Jim LeMunyon (67th) lost by significant margins to their respective Democratic challengers Wendy Gooditis, David Reid and Karrie Delaney—all first-time candidates. The Loudoun results helped Democrats erode GOP control of the state house. As of press time Tuesday, Democrats had flipped 15 districts, bringing control of the House within striking distance for the first time in 18 years. Just before midnight, one district was still in

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play to determine whether Republicans and Democrats would evenly split the House or if Republicans would just narrowly hold on to the majority. “What a great night. Loudoun kicked butt tonight,” County Chairwoman Phyllis Randall (D-At Large) told party supporters gathered at a local Democratic watch party at Palio’s in Leesburg. “Don’t go away next year and please don’t go away in ‘19.” Democrat John Bell (87th) said after regaining his seat, “Simply put, it’s magical.”

Flipping The House Loudoun is represented by seven state delegates and, just four years ago, all seven were in Republican hands. Today, Republicans hold 66 of the 100 House seats and, come January, that could be down to as few as 50. Republican Greason said he saw the blue wave coming well before Tuesday night. He told family before last year’s presidential election, if Democrat Hillary Clinton won, he would fairly easily hold SEA OF BLUE >> 47

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3 Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Purcellville Police Chief Fired; Citizen Oversight Council Proposed BY PATRICK SZABO

McAlister

was hired for the post two years ago, has been on leave for the past month. The town brought in an outside attorney, Patrice Clair, and human resources consultant, Georgia Nuckolls, to review the allegations. The investigation began Aug. 28, Vanegas said. The conclusions, presented to the Town Council in a Nov. 1 closed session, were that the chief had violated

Meet Leesburg’s next big restaurateurs

Teacherstudent relationship results in charges

MCALISTER >> 40

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

A horse waits to have a medical farrier work on her hoof after an injury. The Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center near Leesburg is at the forefront of equine diagnostic and treatment technology.

4 vie for Purcellville council seat

Not Just a Horse Hospital BY PATRICK SZABO

to center director Michael Erskine. The center is largely known for being a leader in CT imaging, regenerative medicine, lameness diagnosis and treatment, and emergency care. Within its walls, there are multiple operating rooms, a pharmacy, an isolation building for horses with contagious diseases, four ICU stalls and the latest medical equipment. EQUINE CENTER >> 39

INDEX Loudoun Gov..................... 4 Leesburg........................... 8 Public Safety................... 14 Education........................ 16 Nonprofit......................... 20 Biz.................................. 24 Our Towns....................... 30 A Loudoun Moment.......... 32 LoCo Living..................... 34 Obituaries....................... 40 Classifieds...................... 41 Opinion........................... 44

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For the local equine community, there is only one medical center in the area that has all the essentials needed to restore a horse to good health. Virginia Tech’s Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center near Leesburg has been offering specialty care, 24/7 emergency treatment and diagnostic services for 33 years. With a medical staff of about 40, a

70,000-square-foot main building, access to the latest advances in equine medical treatment, the center continues to grow in size and prominence. About 2,500 horses are treated at the center each year. While sport horses make up most of the patients, the center treats equines of all types. “We see everything, from the backyard fluffy pony to your Washington International show jumper,” said Sharon Peart, the administrative assistant

Equine Medical Center at the Forefront of Technology

One day after the Purcellville Town Council unanimously supported a vote of “no confidence” in the town’s police chief, Cynthia McAlister was fired. Interim Town Manager Alex Vanegas, who is responsible for town staffing decisions, made the announcement Nov. 2. According to a statement from the town, the decision “was based on the results of a thorough investigation

after several departmental employees brought forth allegations of the chief violating several town policies, procedures and police department general orders.” McAlister, who

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Flanked by members of the town police department, Mayor Kwasi Fraser outlines plans to create an Office of Police Accountability following the Town Council’s Nov. 1 no-confidence vote concerning Chief Cynthia McAlister.

County considers Rt. 7 crosswalks

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Virginia Fusion Applies for Soccer Field off Evergreen Mills

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Planning and Zoning Director Ricky Barker asked stakeholders committee members to “trust the process.”

Envision Loudoun Stakeholders, County Asked to Trust the Process

BY RENSS GREENE

he Envision Loudoun stakeholders steering committee has held off on making any decisions about boosting development in the Transition Policy Area, but asked its members to trust the process—and the Board of Supervisors to stay out of it. “For the public record, I’d say: please, Board of Supervisors, stay in your lane,” said committee and Planning Commission Vice Chairwoman Kathy Blackburn (Algonkian). She said it makes it much harder on the staff to be balancing feedback from the Board of Supervisors while the stakeholders committee continues its work. The committee, which is working to draft a new long-range comprehensive plan for the county, faced criticism from supervisors last month for considering changes to the Transition Policy Area—the buffer between the

suburban east and rural west—that would allow as many as 18,000 more homes in that area. But staff and committee members pointed out that the committee has made no recommendations yet, and is still at work. The 26-member committee has also faced internal division, particularly in the areas of conservation and affordable housing. In particular, Loudoun Preservation and Conservation Coalition representative Al Van Huyck has frequently expressed concern that the new plan is too general, and loses the current plan’s emphasis on the distinctions between suburban east, rural west, and towns. “I don’t believe that will make a useful plan that can be read and can be measured,” Van Huyck said. “I think we have to recognize these spatial distinctions are very unique to Loudoun, and are all very different places.” Van Huyck is a former chairman of the county Planning Commission, and worked on the previous revision of

the comprehensive plan. Challenged on the usefulness of the current plan, he gave the example of AT&T’s unsuccessful application to build a large industrial facility on top of Short Hill Mountain. “[Catoctin District Supervisor] Geary Higgins (R) and other supervisors and ourselves went back and found eight specific things in the comprehensive plan policy that said we should not approve that, and the public mobilized behind that,” Van Huyck said. “Where if the plan only said something vague about mountains, we wouldn’t have had the policies to measure it.” Ultimately, AT&T withdrew that application under public pressure. Planning and Zoning Director Ricky Barker and other committee members asked their colleagues to trust the process. “We want something that’s user-friendly, something that most peoENVISION >> 5

Saines Presses for Rt. 7 Crosswalks in Sterling BY RENSS GREENE While the county government and developers spend millions to keep traffic moving elsewhere along Rt. 7, Loudoun supervisors are moving toward putting crosswalks across the county’s main artery in Sterling. Most of Rt. 7 in Loudoun is already designed as a limited-access highway, with a grassy median, high speed limits, and relatively few access points. But in Sterling, Rt. 7 takes on more of the characteristics of a city street—including the people walking across its six-lanes. This year, after a sustained push by Supervisor Koran T. Saines

(D-Sterling), supervisors will consider finding funding for crosswalks between Northern Virginia Community College and Potomac Run Plaza; at Potomac View Drive, one stoplight east of the community college; and at Lakeland Drive, at the Sugarland Crossing shopping center just short of the Fairfax County line. “At the end of the day, it’s to provide safe passages for citizens to get to their jobs, to their schools, to their homes in a safe manner, because people are crossing there all the time,” Saines said. Supervisors will discuss adding the crosswalks to the county’s Capital Improvement Program in the next fiscal

year, skipping to the front of the line in the six-year program. They are estimated to cost $822,000. The board has already prioritized the crosswalks near the community college in those discussions. “If I have my colleagues’ support to do so, we would love to see it get done sooner than later, because we’re just going to see traffic increase, if anything,” Saines said. “And as more people come of age in the Sterling area—which is happening every day—we’re going to see more and more people walk on that stretch to get home, get to their jobs STERLING CROSSWALK >> 7

Virginia Fusion Football Club, a partner of FC Virginia, has applied to build its soccer fields near the intersection of Evergreen Mills Road and Belmont Ridge Road on Briarfield Lane. A soccer field and building already stand on the property, but Virginia Fusion president Branko Pantovich would like to be able to build a FIFA-sized field—which could also alternate as two youth fields—and lighting for the field. Russ Forno, a land use planner with the law firm Odin, Feldman & Pittleman, said the field would help address a shortage of athletic fields in Loudoun and the region. Virginia Fusion plans to use the field only as a practice field, with no plans for competition. But county staff have voiced concern about light from the field spilling over into adjacent properties, not enough buffer space at the property’s edges, and not enough parking. “Generally these perceived incompatibilities appear to be the result of the applicant perhaps trying to do too much on a small site,” said Department of Planning and Zoning Project Manager Steve Barney. The project has also generated much public comment— both from its supports, like FC Virginia, and from people concerned about the lights and noise, and the burden of additional traffic on Evergreen Mills Road. The Planning Commission will continue to mull the application before making a recommendation.

VA to Open Mental Health Center in Leesburg The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will open a Vet Center Community Access Center in Leesburg early next year. U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-VA-10) and Supervisor Tony R. Buffington Jr. (R-Blue Ridge) announced the plans last week. It will serve veterans, as well as active duty military personnel and their families. “Currently, a Veteran would have to travel to either the VA

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ple can just go and look at the plan and see what’s the vision, what’s the actions and strategies that the county wants to achieve, and be able to easily find that,” Barker said, comparing it to the complicated, redundant comprehensive plan the county has today. “I’m perfectly comfortable with the direction that this group has been going for the last year and a half,” agreed Broad Run District representative Lou Canonico. “We started down a course back a year and a half ago, I have no desire to go back and revisit everything

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that we’ve done. From my perspective, the thing that seems to be lost in the translation is that the plan is a policy document. It’s not a regulatory document.” The committee, which meets twice a month, has also struggled to get to everything on its agenda at the last several meetings. “We’re in this a year and a half—does the staff think that we’re on track?” asked Lars Henriksen, who represents the Dulles Area Association of Realtors on the committee. “I think we are where we are,” said Barker. “… I say that in all seriousness, because you all have to feel comfortable moving forward.”

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<< FROM 4 Hospital in Martinsburg, West Virginia or a Vet Center in Alexandria to receive the same type of care that you will be able to find at the Leesburg Vet Center Access Center,” Comstock stated. She said the center would provide certified counseling services for veterans, active duty military, and their families with mental health needs. Comstock said she learned of the need during a Veterans Jobs Fair in June. “In less than seven months from that initial conversation we will be opening the Leesburg Vet Center Community Access Center in early 2018,” she said. The Vet Center will offer a certified counselor that helps veterans and their families with mental health needs. That includes PTSD, marriage and family counseling, military sexual trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. The counselors can also help with socioeconomic issues that face the veteran community, and can help navigate the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Vet Center is a federal government program connected to the Department of Veterans Affairs, but functions as a separate entity and does not report to Veterans Administration Medical Centers. Its mission focuses on veteran needs, being integrated with the community, and being a firstrate counseling service tailored to veterans’ issues.

Another Connection: Tall Cedars Parkway Link Opens South Loudoun residents got welcomed relief Tuesday when county leaders celebrated the completion of Tall Cedars Parkway. The new segment of Rt. 50’s southern collector road connects Pinebrook Road and Gum Spring Road. The link will remove some local traffic from Rt. 50 and provide residents of South Riding, Avonlea and Stone Ridge with more direct access to schools, shopping centers and medical centers. Construction by Phillips Construction began last fall and was completed several months ahead of the scheduled completion date of spring 2018. The cost was $13.18 million, funded by regional road cash proffer collected from several area developers.

Solarize NoVA Wins State Award The Northern Virginia Regional Commission’s Solarize NoVA program and the Local Energy Alliance Program won a first place statewide award from the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council. Since the program’s inception, more than 4,400 residents and businesses have signed up to participate. Through Solarize NoVA, 630 families received home energy checkups that help save them up to 780 kilowatts annually, and 15 multi-family residential units have

been weatherized. All in all, 183 contracts for new solar arrays have been entered into with a rated capacity in excess of 1.4 megawatts with a contract value exceeding $4.45 million. The program only uses Virginia-based contractors. “We are proud of our efforts in the region to promote both energy efficiency and renewable energy,” stated Robert W. Lazaro Jr., executive director of NVRC. “We are especially delighted to work with our local government partners, our invaluable partners at LEAP and others to help raise awareness of the value of efficiency and renewables.”

Saines, Enroll Virginia Host ACA Signups Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) is again partnering with Enroll Virginia to provide free, in-person assistance enrolling in Affordable Care Act health insurance Sunday, Nov. 12. The event is open to Sterling residents who need help enrolling in or renewing a health insurance plan through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace or at healthcare.gov. This year, Virginians have until Dec. 15 to apply for premium assistance, review their health plan options, and enroll in a plan during open enrollment. Open enrollment is the only time that most consumers can purchase individual insurance for 2018, and this period is significantly shorter than last year’s open enrollment period.

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Loudoun County residents will have fewer plan choices on the ACA marketplace in 2018, and some will need to choose a new health plan to continue receiving financial help with premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. All residents should also check provider directories and prescription drug formularies before enrolling in new plans for 2018 to see if their current doctors, pharmacies, hospitals, and medications are in network. It is important to use in-network providers and facilities to avoid unexpected bills. The Community ACA Enrollment Event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at the Sterling Library at 22330 S. Sterling Boulevard. One-on-one assistance will be provided by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 804-432-0199, or the Spanish hotline at 703-778-4808. Walk-ins are also welcome to stop by and ask questions, but are not guaranteed assistance due to limited space. Bring the following documents or information: social security number for self and all family members; recent tax returns or last two paystubs; immigration and legal documents; name and number of employers; and email address. In-person assistance is also available at HealthWorks Community Health Center. HealthWorks has offices in Leesburg and Herndon. Schedule an appointment by calling 703-840-4699.

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<< FROM 4 and to the school.” Those crossing locations were recommended in a county-commissioned feasibility study that looked at five intersections. Saines pointed to the trails beaten into the grass in the median, and said it’s luck that nobody has been killed crossing Rt. 7 recently. The crosswalks would be particularly important to Northern Virginia Community College. In a meeting with Saines and his staff, Loudoun campus provost Julie Leidig said if a crosswalk were built, the college could build pedestrian access to it on campus. “We try to discourage students from running across Rt. 7 because it is not safe,” Leidig said. “We’re not always successful.” She pointed out some of the college’s students are dropped off or walk and don’t have a car. Between the college and the shopping centers—like the newly opened Cascades Overlook—across Rt. 7, it’s a hot spot for dodging traffic. “We would definitely want to talk to the county and Virginia Department of Transportation, and partner with them on any plans they would have to give our students safer crossings, because it seems very difficult to stop them from crossing,” Leidig said. But like many projects in Loudoun,

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Olivia Schnibbe is preparing to open her first restaurant venture, with the assistance of husband Nils Schnibbe and General Manager Aislin Kavaldjian. SideBar is expected to open on King Street on Dec. 1.

Leesburg Restaurant Visionaries Roll Out 3 New Ventures

BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

he growth of downtown Leesburg’s dining industry has shined the light on a new generation of industry innovators. Among them, the husband and wife team Nils and Olivia Schnibbe are no strangers to the restaurant scene, having worked at, managed, and, in Nils’ case, owned establishments throughout the historic downtown. The two met at their former place of employment—a restaurant, of course. So now one year into their newlywed bliss, with a baby on the way, they have sunk their teeth into several new projects that will continue to keep them busy, and keep Leesburg’s and greater Loudoun’s loyal diners coming back for more. Nils Schibbe was one of two business partners behind Captain Catoctin’s Crabs & Concoctions, which made its debut in the mid-summer. But as the

nights now turn colder, Captain’s season has ended and Schnibbe, now operating the business on his own, has decided to re-brand the East Loudoun Street restaurant with a new concept. While the details have not completely been worked out, loyal patrons need not fret: a short-term solution is on the horizon. Fa La La will debut in Captain’s space on Thanksgiving week. The pop-up Christmas-themed bar will be fully decked out in festive holiday decorations and feature specialty themed cocktails. Just as with an Advent calendar, every day there will be a new surprise for visitors. A Christmas Market-style menu will include giant pretzels, bratwurst, hot cider, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and more. Another new project, just around the block is SideBar Restaurant, to be located at 24 and 26 South King St. The restaurant is the first signature project of Olivia Schnibbe, and an eatery that caters to the masses—from breakfast to

lunch to happy hour to dinner time to late night—is envisioned. The property gives Schnibbe the opportunity to rent out event space in a rear building off King Street that formerly served as a carriage house for bridal showers or rehearsal dinners. The buildings fronting King Street will house SideBar’s three bars and kitchen and seating area, to including neighboring Blue Mountain Cafe, a space the Schnibbes have signed on to take over the lease. The Jamaican restaurant will be vacating the space before month’s end. At SideBar, guests can enjoy everything from to-go breakfast sandwiches and coffee beverages, served in a convenient, on-the-street, to-go window, to take out salads and sandwiches for lunch. Dining seating will also be available for all meals, for those looking for a sit-down experience. The happy hour menu will roll out about 4 p.m., with different specials every week, Schnibbe VISIONARIES >> 9

One Year in, No Rest for the Chief BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ Leesburg Police Chief Gregory Brown celebrated his first anniversary as the head of the town’s police force in much the way those who know him best would expect: planning ahead for what he wants to accomplish in his second year. It’s been a busy year for Brown, who joined the town’s ranks after 19 years at the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office. And it’s been a year spent more out in front than behind his desk, becoming a regular at community events, chatting with residents and getting to know the department’s staff as well.

It’s that last point that took up more of his year than he initially thought. Brown made it a goal to meet individually with every member of his firstline staff. He set out to accomplish that in six months, but it took almost the entire year. It was all toward the goal of making sure every member of his staff knew they had a voice, and a value. Brown’s aim for the community at large has been similar, and is ongoing. “We’ve really been focusing on making sure every segment of the community feels they have a seat at the table. They can walk through our doors any CHIEF BROWN >> 12

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Interacting with the community has been a hallmark of Leesburg Police Chief Gregory Brown’s first year on the job. Here, he speaks to residents gathered for a forum at the department Oct. 17.

Friday marked the last day of town government employee for Business Development Manager Kindra Harvey. But, for her, it was the start of something much bigger. She leaves the town after almost twoand-a-half years to do what she has been helping many throughout her career do: Harvey start a new business. Prior to joining the town, Harvey worked for Loudoun County for five years as both a workforce development training coordinator and employer services coordinator. “I’m always either working with businesses or the workforce,” she said of her career path thus far. Now, it’ll be Harvey’s turn in the spotlight, as she launches Purpose WorX, LLC, which will offer motivational speaking services, training, and one-on-one coaching services for individuals and groups. She will run her venture out of the Leesburg Junction co-working space on Depot Court. “I am going to do be doing what I love most, which is what people fear most. I’m an encourager at my core,” Harvey said. She compared the planning leading up to her business launch with an eight-year pregnancy. She’s been putting the work in over the last almost decade to make sure “the baby stays healthy and active” and isn’t delivered before it’s due. Harvey will be the guest speaker at Leesburg Junction’s Nov. 14 monthly speaker series. For more information on Harvey’s business, go to purposeworx.com.

Tents Headed Downtown? For the third time in the past decade, Planning Commissioners are considering whether to allow tents and shade structures for downtown restaurants. In the past two instances, in 2008 and 2013, the commission recommended against expanding the use of tents downtown. Currently, tents are allowed on a temporary basis or for business special events. But, the growth of the downtown restaurant industry, coupled with the emergence of a thriving craft brewery community, has led some to wonder whether the third time may be the charm. On Nov. 2, commissioners kicked off review of whether to amend a zoning orBRIEFS >> 10

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said. On Thursdays, SideBar will host “Cocktail Wars” where two new cocktails every week will compete for regular rotation on the drink menu. The dinner menu will feature dishes including scallops and pork shank, with different offerings on the bar side for happy hour like tater tots with smoked Gouda and bacon. Brunch will be served on the weekends. They eye a Dec. 1 opening for SideBar, where they will start with a light menu and cocktails. “We’ll ease our way into it of seeing what patrons like and what patrons want more of,” Olivia Schnibbe said. In addition to her husband, she will have as her right-hand woman Aislin Kavaldjian, most recently the assistant general manager of Delirium Café, who will serve as her GM. Having Kavaldjian involved in the project has been a godsend of sorts for Schnibbe, pointing to her GM’s beer acumen and experience. Acknowledging that she’ll need to take some time off with the birth of her first baby in a few months, Schnibbe said she knows she will leave SideBar in good hands. “That’s why I don’t feel totally psycho doing this,” she joked. “Our minds of design and style are completely in sync. That’s why I trust her to be the GM. When she became available to do this it’s the biggest breath I ever took of relief.” “Olivia and Ais have their finger on the pulse of what’s happening,” Nils Schnibbe said.

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

<< FROM 8

The goal for all their employees, Olivia Schnibbe said, is not only for them to embrace their roles in their restaurants, but to allow for opportunities to branch out on their own. Another new Schnibbe venture, food truck SunDay Chicken, is a good example. The new operation pairs Nils Schnibbe with Christopher Peters, who he most recently worked with at Captain Catoctin’s. “What we were going for was trying to get something not over-the-top fancy, not as niche as some of these other food trucks,” Peters said. “Something that appeals to the masses,” Nils Schnibbe added. What SunDay Chicken offers is a no-nonsense, back-to-basics menu that includes a plethora of poultry: grilled chicken sandwiches, fried chicken, chicken and waﬄes, breakfast sandwiches, and even a Nutella waﬄe. Much of SunDay Chicken’s wares can be cooked through a commercial kitchen at Morven Park, where Nils Schnibbe runs the Morven Park Café during equestrian and sporting events. Yes, yet another venture. The Schnibbes acknowledge that even those closest to them question how they can handle so many projects at once. It’s simple, Nils Schnibbe said. “It’s get up early, go to bed late, and have a team of great people with us. There’s no chance we could do it all by ourselves.” And the Schnibbes don’t plan to slow down anytime soon, even with a new set of little feet joining the pack early next year. They are eying the opening of a beer garden and restaurant in Round Hill in the spring.

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Airport to Consider Funding Partnership with County The Leesburg Airport Commission has agreed to consider options for the county government to help pay for improvements to Leesburg Executive Airport, but won’t rush into any arrangement. The topic was on the commission’s agenda last week, a little over a week after Councilman Tom Dunn stirred controversy with claims that commission members wielded too much influence over the Town Council. The comments were made after the council voted to retract a request, originally suggested by Dunn, that the county help pay for planned improvements at the airport. The council initially agreed to do that, but withdrew the request when the airport commissioners, who had not been consulted about the idea, objected. Commissioners told the council that county funding could impact operations at the airport and that a full study of a potential town-county funding relationship for the airport should be looked at first. On Nov. 2, that effort advanced. Commissioners proposed the creation of a working group to study a potential funding relationship between the town and county for the airport. While historically the county has not regularly contributed to the airport, town and county leaders have acknowledged the airport›s regional economic benefit. Business at the airport is expected to grow in the coming years, with the addition of more hangar space and a U.S. Customs facility that will allow for international flights. Leesburg Executive Airport is Virginia’s second busiest

general aviation airport, with more than 100,000 landings and take offs a year. It is estimated to have a local economic impact of $78 million, according to the airport’s 2015 annual report. We need to clearly define what is the relationship between the town and county over the airport,» Commission Chairman Dennis Boykin said in introducing the working group concept last week. It’s an idea that doesn›t have unanimous support among the commission, with some expressing concerns that county funding could give the county government some control of the airport›s operations. The town and county have sparred over the years over development proposals for land around the airport, as well as a push by the Board of Supervisors a decade ago to increase the personal property tax on aircraft based at the airport. “I want nothing from the county, Commission Vice Chairman Tom Toth said. “We are blessed in that we have our own little town, we have our own airport. We don’t need another political entity in here [messing] around with it.” Town Manager Kaj Dentler, who attended the meeting, suggested that, upon authorization from Town Council, members of a working group first engage County Administrator Tim Hemstreet and county Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer to discuss the airport’s economic benefits to Loudoun County. “The way to be successful is not going straight to the board [of supervisors]. It’s working with Buddy Rizer to determine the economic value of the airport. The county places significant funds into

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

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BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

economic development but they look at the return on investment,” Dentler said. An important first step, he said, was to frame the argument for the airport in terms of quantifying its economic value for the county, as well as determining what areas county funding or in-kind services could be beneficial. Commissioner Tom Dunlap, who volunteered to participate in the working group along with commissioners Vaughn Allex, Eliot Danner, and Gary Rogerson, suggested that a clearly defined partnership with the county could give the town access to some key commercial partners going forward. Boykin also noted the county›s access to capital. “We need to accelerate growth of the airport and the money has got to come from somewhere,” Commissioner Jed Babbin said. Dentler said the working group should wrap up its work by the summer to give the town time to draw up a Memorandum of Understanding for a partnership between the town and county, if that turns out to be the desired next step. Following his comments at last week’s council meeting, Dunn was invited to attend the commission meeting. He declined, but sent a statement to be read into the minutes of the commission meeting. In part, the statement said, “I regret that my council meeting comments were considered an attack on the members of the Airport Commission because they were not intended as such and there were no allegations of any wrongdoing.” krodriguez@loudounnow.com

[ BRIEFS ] << FROM 8 dinance to allow tents and shade structures on a more permanent basis for restaurants and breweries downtown. The discussion of shade structures is a new concept for the commission this time around. The canopy-like structures would shield patrons from the sun during the warm weather months and allow more outdoor activities during the winter. Commissioners are considering whether to allow the two types of structures at all, and if so, their locations, size, types of material, and what body would have review authority over them. Last week, the commission seemed more enthusiastic about the introduction of shade structures as opposed to tents, but all noted they would want anything approved to not contrast with the historic nature of the downtown. The commission initially seemed comfortable with handing over review to the town staff, but said bringing the Board of Architectural Review in to help set up design guidelines for these types of structures was an important next step. Now, the matter will go before the BAR, likely in December, for its input on setting up appropriate design guidelines for the use of tents and/or shade structures in the B-1 downtown business district. The matter would then return to the Planning Commission in January for a public hearing, where business owners and interested members of the public are invited to weigh in on the possible expansion of the regulations. Ultimately, the decision rests with the Town Council.

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Council May Punt City Status Request It does seem like [it’s] a fight that isn’t going to happen.” – Councilman Ron Campbell

islative agenda include requesting a state code amendment to allow for the county to move forward with a plan to take over the town’s tax collection and billing duties; and a requested code amendment to clarify localities’ right to regulate land use as it relates to the launching and retrieving of drones/ unmanned aircraft. On the latter point, Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel said there have been recent challenges to allowing drone take-offs and landings at Ida Lee Park. Another addition to the town’s legislative positions statement opposes to any effort to mandate that only licensed surveyors could perform GIS work for localities. The town’s current GIS staff members are not licensed surveyors, Markel noted. A draft of the legislative agenda and positions statement can be found at leesburgva.gov under the Town Council meeting agenda for Oct. 2324.

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For the first time in years, the Town Council will likely drop its request for authority to become a city from its list of legislative priorities. Council members were presented a draft of their legislative agenda Oct. 23 and will finalize its General Assembly wish list Nov. 14, before their annual dinner meeting with members of the Richmond delegation Nov. 27. Mayor Kelly Burk questioned whether seeking city status, currently under moratorium in the state, should continue to linger on the town’s legislative agenda. As recently as this year, efforts in the General Assembly to provide an exemption to the moratorium, giving large towns like Leesburg a chance to become a city, were unsuccessful. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors in January publicly opposed a bill put forward by Del. Randy Minchew (R10) to create an exemption for towns with populations of at least 40,000. Burk said it “seemed silly” to keep city status on the legislative agenda, when it appears there is no momentum at the state level for any change. “It does seem like [it’s] a fight that isn’t going to happen,” Councilman Ron Campbell said. That request related to city status was added to the town’s legislative agenda in 2012. It was removed in 2015 but added back the following year. Other potential changes to the leg-

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

BY KARA RODRIGUEZ

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

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Chief Brown << FROM 8 time. No matter what race, creed, gender, color, religion, or political beliefs. We are here to serve everybody,” he said. “I wanted to make sure that message was persistent and consistent with the community. We’ve made some pretty good strides.” Brown noted that the department’s community policing model was strong even before he came, with all 17 member agencies of the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy sending their recruits to the county seat to take notes. But Brown hopes to bolster the program with more community outreach. The public information officer position was reinstituted, with Officer Sam Shenouda at the helm, and quarterly community meetings are planned to keep residents informed. The ridealong program was also rebuilt, giving community members age 18 and older the chance to see firsthand the department’s interactions with residents. Increasing officer presence and bringing the department back up to full staffing have been some of Brown’s major priorities. The department was short 18 staff members a year ago; that number is now down to eight. Brown hopes to have the department fully staffed by the end of next year. He credits the creation of the Supplemental Recruiting Team, made up of 14 staff members from varying backgrounds, for increasing the number of applicants to the department. “The best projected image of the Leesburg Police Department was rep-

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

of Leesburg Police Chief Gregory Brown speaks at a forum Oct. 17.

resenting out there. That has a lot to do with the numbers we’ve seen,” he said. The department also brought back its motorcycle unit to two, with the goal to grow to four in the next two years, Brown said. The K-9 Unit will be fully staffed by the spring with 3 teams of trained dogs and officers. Training has been just as big of a deal in Brown’s first year as staffing. Almost every employee has received training in the Fair and Impartial Policing Program, and 67 percent of patrol officers have been certified in Crisis Intervention Training. Tackling officer resiliency has been just as important, and launch of a Peer Support Team and the chaplaincy program are there to ensure officers remain healthy mentally, physically, and emotionally, Brown said. The department is phasing in body cameras and adding cameras in patrol cars, with the goal of having all patrol

officers and cars equipped with the technology. The department will “revamp” its emergency preparedness plan, which outlines best practices for law enforcement during natural disasters, weather-related emergencies and road closures. “We are putting together a comprehensive plan to make sure we can provide the citizens of the Town of Leesburg the best response as a town in general to make sure we can respond and return them to a sense of normalcy as soon as we can,” Brown said. The elephant in the room remains the department’s 20-year-old headquarters on Plaza Street. An expansion of the building is listed in the town’s Capital Improvements Program as a future priority project, but there is no funding or timetable assigned. “We’re maxed out,” Brown said. The headquarters opened with 47 employees, and the department is now authorized for 103. “We’ll be working with staff and the Town Council to weigh our options, see what type of things we can do to maximize our space,” he said. On crime reduction, Brown said the opioid crisis is a top priority. There were nine opioid-related deaths in town in 2017. “That’s concerning to me,” he said. Leesburg ranks as the 11th safest jurisdiction in Virginia, Brown noted, “but I want to be in the top 10.” Addressing quality-of-life issues through the department’s community policing approach is a big strategy towards that goal. He uses the example of a man who

told him recently of an abandoned couch on his property, and he sent an officer out to help remove it. It’s about addressing quality of life issues before they become crime problems, Brown said. “You have to look at these things as a progressive issue. If we address these issues quickly—keep the neighborhood clean, secure our belongings to make sure we don’t invite unwanted individuals onto our property, securing our homes, keeping the grass cut, by being a part of the solution when you see something calling [the department],” he said. “All those things is what makes Leesburg a safe community.” Brown is quick to share the credit for the department’s accomplishment so far. “Leesburg is fortunate to have the level of commitment I’ve observed in my year here,” he said. “These folks love this town and they don’t hesitate to step up and do the right thing, even when it comes out of their own pockets. To me that just reaffirms that I’m in the right place and at the right time.” And although the past year has been exhausting at times, Brown said he’s just as excited now as he was when he launched his career 21 years ago. “I’ve got just as much, if not more, energy than when I walked across the stage at the academy in 1996. I don’t see myself burning out anytime soon,” he said. “I’m excited. I draw from the energies of my officers. I see that excitement and it gives me that extra push.” krodriguez@loudounnow.com

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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. 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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[ PUBLIC SAFETY ]

Carjacked Deputy Identified as Station Commander

BY RENSS GREENE

he Loudoun deputy who was the victim of a carjacking at gunpoint on an early morning in July is the former commander of University Station and second-in-command of the Criminal Investigations Division, Capt. Marc Caminiti. Caminiti, a 27-year veteran of the sheriff ’s office, has since retired. His identity had not been previously disclosed, but he was named in a warrant in the case, and his identity as the victim was confirmed by Clarke County Commonwealth’s Attorney Anne Williams. During the incident, Caminiti’s service pistol, a county-issued phone, and his personal vehicle were stolen. The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office launched an internal affairs investigation, but Sheriff ’s Office spokesman Kraig Troxell said that is no longer an active investigation, since those only involve active employees. Caminiti was on sick leave at the time of the carjacking. Just after 4 a.m. July 12, the Clarke County Sheriff ’s Office received a 911 call from a person stating that his vehicle was stolen by an unknown per-

Loudoun Now/File Photo

Capt. Mark Caminiti at the groundbreaking of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office’s new Ashburn substation in April 2016.

son at gunpoint. The alleged carjacker is 24-year-old Zakarea Alzanam from Schenectady, NY, who was on parole

and had previously been convicted of felony robbery. According to the Clarke County

Sheriff ’s Office, after Caminiti drove Alzanam from Loudoun and dropped him off at the J&J Corner Store on Rt. 7 near Berryville, he discovered his cell phone missing and returned. Alzanam managed to take a weapon out of the vehicle and then took the car. Alzanam drove away, fled a traffic stop, crashed the vehicle, and fled into the woods. Units from Clarke County, Loudoun County, the Town of Berryville, Frederick County, the Virginia State Police, and a Fairfax County Police Department helicopter joined the search for him. Ultimately, he was found by area residents who saw him fleeing through a cow pasture as they were getting ready for their workday. Alzanam was charged with carjacking, auto theft, firearm theft, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and eluding police. Williams has decided not to pursue the carjacking charge for now. Caminiti is among the former Loudoun officers who filed statements for the plaintiff in former detective Mark McCaffrey’s $6.3 million lawsuit against Sheriff Mike Chapman for alleged wrongful termination. That suit was dismissed and has been appealed. rgreene@loudounnow.com

[ SAFETY BRIEFS ] gated the allegations. Robison was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. According to the school’s webpage, Robison teaches academic and conceptual physics. He received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from George Mason University and was pursuing a master’s in curriculum and instruction in physics. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact of the Sheriff ’s Office at 703-777-0475.

Robison

Teacher Charged after Relationship with Student A Potomac Falls High School science teacher was arrested Friday on charges of having an inappropriate relationship with a female student. Andrew A. Robison, 29, of Centreville, was charged with two counts of indecent liberties by a custodian. Robison allegedly had a relationship with the juvenile. He is charged in connection with two incidents in July when he is alleged to have had contact with the victim at her home and a park, both in Ashburn. The Sheriff ’s Office became aware of the allegations last Wednesday. The agency’s Special Victims Unit investi-

Vafaei

Ashburn Man Charged with Halloween Assault Detectives with the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office Special Victims Unit arrested an Ashburn man Friday night after he allegedly had inappropriate

contact with a young girl on Halloween. Seyed Vafaei, 68, was charged with assault and battery stemming from an Oct. 31 incident in the area of Tournament Parkway and Palmer Classic Parkway. The juvenile victim reported she was walking in the neighborhood with her friends when Vafaei approached them. Vafaei offered her candy and placed it in the girl’s bag. As she attempted to catch up with her friends, Vafaei grabbed her hand and kissed her on the cheek, according to Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office. The girl pulled away and caught up to her friends. The incident was reported to law enforcement the following day. The Sheriff ’s Office has been investigating possible additional encounters. Vafaei had been seen in the community riding a bicycle wearing goggles. He was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. Anyone with any information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective C. Czekaj at 703-777-0475.

Resident Awakes to Find Burglar in Home The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is investigating an overnight burglary where the suspect assaulted the homeowner after being confronted. According to the report, a resident on Bushwood Court in the Seneca

Ridge neighborhood was awakened around 3 a.m. Nov. 2 by dogs barking. A man was upstairs in the home. The suspect dropped a container of coins he was taking from the home and fled. The homeowner chased the suspect downstairs where the suspect threw a chair at the homeowner before fleeing. The homeowner received a minor injury during the confrontation. Investigators said the suspect likely made entry into the home through an unlocked door. The area was searched, but the suspect was not located. He was described as a black male, 6-feet, 2-inches tall with a thin build. He was wearing a black beanie, a tight black jacket, and black pants and glasses. Detectives are working to determine if this case was related to a series of burglaries in area. Since Oct. 13, there have been 11 burglaries where the residents were home during the burglaries and the suspects gained entry through an exterior garage door and an unlocked interior garage door. In each case, it appears the suspects used a garage door opener from unlocked cars parked in a driveway to gain access to the homes. Anyone with information regarding these cases is asked to contact Eastern Loudoun Station Detective K. Mitchell at 571-258-3138. You may also submit a tip through the Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office app.

Nov. 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15, 2017

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[ E D U C AT I O N ]

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

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Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Crews work on the Academies of Loudoun, just off Sycolin Road south of Leesburg. It is set to open in fall of 2018 and house three magnet programs: the Academy of Science, the Academy of Engineering and Technology, and C.S. Monroe Technology Center.

Superintendent Recommends Accelerating Construction of 5 Loudoun Schools

BY DANIELLE NADLER

he county school system may need to accelerate several building projects to stay ahead of enrollment growth. That’s at the forefront of school leaders’ minds as they begin to set priorities for the schools’ capital needs over the next six years. This month, the School Board will work on the division’s Capital Improvement Program that will serve as a road map for building and other capital projects from 2019 to 2024. Kevin Lewis, assistant superintendent of Support Services, presented his department’s recommendations for which projects should make the cut for that six-year plan during a meeting last week. With enrollment expected to grow by more than 9,500 students to 90,768 countywide by 2024, Lewis’ team is recommending five school buildings and one classroom addition be accelerated. Among those are Dulles North elementary school ES-23, which they want to accelerate one year to be funded in fiscal year 2019 and opened in fall of 2021; and Dulles South elementary school ES-29, which they want to advance two years to also open in 2021. They’re recommending a three-classroom addition at Dominion Trail Elementary to make room

for full-day kindergarten. They’re aiming for that to be funded in fiscal year 2020—moved up one year from last year’s CIP—and be ready for students in 2021. A classroom addition is also slated to be built at Steuart Weller Elementary that same year to make room for full-day kindergarten. Lewis’ staff wants to fast-track the land purchase and construction of Dulles North middle school MS-14 to have it ready for students by fall of 2026—four years earlier than initially recommended. Also on the list to be accelerated is land purchases for Dulles North elementary school ES-34 and Dulles North high school HS-14 be funded in fiscal year 2023. “You’ll notice a pattern there,” Lewis said. “All those are in the Dulles North area… recognizing the growth is still happening in Dulles North.” Dulles North is a planning area northwest of Dulles Airport and west of Ashburn and includes Brambleton. In addition to ES-23 and ES-29, the recommendation for the first year of the CIP, fiscal year 2019, is for: $2.1 million for artificial turf and track resurfacing at Briar Woods High School; $64.9 million for the renovation of C.S. Monroe Technology Center to convert it to serve as the new location of the county’s alternative school; $11.5 million for division-wide security improvements; $2.1 million for artificial turf and track resurfacing at Freedom

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Work is underway on Goshen Post Elementary School. It is set to open in fall of 2018, on land adjacent to John Champe High School, and serve 940 students.

High School; $125.5 million for construction of Lightridge High School, to open in fall of 2020; and about $6 million for new school buses. The recommendation for fiscal year 2020 is to fund just three projects: a wastewater treatment facility in Lucketts at $3.9 million and classroom additions at Dominion Trail and Steuart Weller for $2.9 million. For the following year, fiscal year 2021, the staff is suggesting about $50 million worth of projects be funded. The big-ticket items for that year would be classroom additions at four elementary schools to make room for full-day kindergarten at $12.4 million, Round Hill Center renovations for

$13.5 million, and staff training center renovations for $12.1 million. Lewis said, in the long run, the county saves money on each project it advances because construction costs are continually rising. “Construction costs are going up and we’re seeing that across the nation,” Lewis said. Because of that, his staff is projecting an annual inflation rate of 4.5 percent for the next six years. Plus, they have to account for Mid-Atlantic construction costs that are generally 15 to 20 percent higher than the national average. “That’s because of the high demand for construction services,” Lewis said. He also noted that in the early ’90s, it cost about $50 per square foot to build a school, and that is now close to $300 per square foot. “That’s a sign of the market. The market is improving,” Lewis said, “but we just know that puts increased pressure on our projects for every one that we bid.” The School Board will hold public hearings and work sessions on the Capital Improvement Program Thursday, Nov. 9 and Monday, Nov. 20. The meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and are held at the school administration building, 21000 Education Court in Ashburn. The board is scheduled to adopt a final CIP Nov. 28. dnadler@loudounnow.com

BY DANIELLE NADLER Five years ago, Loudoun’s education leaders set out to reduce the school system’s suspension rate with the goal of finding more constructive ways to discipline students. They say there’s more work to be done, but they recently got a kudos from the Legal Aid Justice Center for making progress. Legal Aid Justice Center, a Charlottesville-based nonprofit organization that provides legal services for low-income individuals, released its “Suspended Progress 2017” report last month. The report looked at suspension and expulsion rates in Virginia’s public schools during the 2015-2016 academic year. That year, Virginia schools issued 131,500 out-of-school suspensions to more than 70,000 students. That’s up from the previous year. It scolded several school divisions that have tallied relatively high suspension rates. Petersburg City suspended 18 percent of its students at least once, the highest rate in the state, and Portsmouth City suspended 16 percent of its students at least once. The Legal Aid Justice Center says that schools’ use of “exclusionary discipline” is harmful. “Suspensions

and expulsions place students out of sight and out of mind, but they don’t disappear,” it stated in the report. “These are often children who—still forming as people—need academic, social, and therapeutic supports, and positive adult guidance, more than ever.” But Loudoun County Public Schools was one of 12 school systems the center put in the spotlight for adopting “restorative practices.” It defines restorative practices as non-punitive methods that provide meaningful, appropriate accountability for a student’s specific behavior issue. The report said that restorative practices help decrease students’ poor behavior, boost their academic achievement, improve the overall climate of the school, encourage peerto-peer accountability, and teach students and teachers conflict resolution skills. During the 2015-2016 school year, 699 Loudoun students were suspended at least once—less than 1 percent of the overall student population—and zero were expelled, according to the report. That’s down significantly over five years earlier, when 1,004 students were suspended and an additional 11 were expelled. The division decreased suspensions

“These are often children who— still forming as people—need academic, social, and therapeutic supports, and positive adult guidance, more than ever.” — Legal Aid Justice Center

and expulsions while growing by more than 13,000 students over that six-year period. Members of the School Board have worked to address a perceived zero-tolerance discipline model. Over the past few years, they’ve brought the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program into every school. It helps educators create plans to prevent poor behavior, particularly for students who would benefit more from counseling than a week out of school. School Board members are crediting that program, paired with a

student-to-student support program called PEER, with contributing to the decline in total suspensions and expulsions even as enrollment has increased. Now, their focus is on reducing the rate of suspensions among minority students and students with disabilities. Loudoun’s black and Hispanic students and students with disabilities are disproportionality suspended and expelled, which is also a problem at the state level and nationally. Special education students in Loudoun County are three times more likely to be suspended than their general education peers. Black students are two-and-a-half times more likely to be suspended, and Hispanic students are suspended one-and-a-half times more often than the rest of their peers, according to data from 2014-2015. The school system has since increased professional development and training for teachers related to discipline. Board members have agreed they want to work with principals and teachers to ensure punishments are applied more fairly—they’ve made closing the discipline disproportionality gap a goal by 2020. dnadler@loudounnow.com

Schools Commended for Reducing Suspension Rates

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Members of the Marching Raiders compete in the USBands Virginia Championship on Oct. 21.

Marching Raiders Win State Championship The Loudoun County High School’s Marching Raiders scored its 14th consecutive superior rating on the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director’s Association state assessment. The state assessment was held Oct. 21 at Rock Ridge High School. The

Loudoun County Marching Raiders also won the USBands Virginia Championship in IV Open Class for a second year in a row. The Marching Raiders’ will take their show on the road this weekend, when they perform in a parade at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

School Board Weighs Legislative Priorities

law also require that the board members certify that they had no involvement in the hiring decision, and the superintendent certifies that the hiring decision was based on merit. The School Board’s Legislative Program serves as a formal request to the delegates and state senators who represent Loudoun County in the General Assembly. School Board members will present the program to lawmakers at an annual Legislative Breakfast on Dec. 1, and follow up with a dinner the Loudoun’s delegation Jan. 22.

The Loudoun County School Board is fine-tuning its list of state laws members want to see changed. The board is scheduled to adopt its 2018 Legislative Program on Tuesday, and it is considering a few additions and deletions. At the top of its wish list is a repeated request for state lawmakers to provide funding to cover the cost of following all state mandates. “When the Commonwealth considers a program important enough to mandate, it should consider the mandate important enough to fund,” the proposed Legislative Program states. The Legislative and Policy Committee is recommending that the board delete a request from last year that asked lawmakers to support legislation that would allow school districts to charge for bus transportation to and from optional education programs and activities. Currently, state law does not require public schools to provide transportation to programs like C.S. Monroe Technology Center or after-school activities, but it cannot charge families if they do provide the service. Committee members also want to see a state law that permits relatives of School Board members to be hired by the school system. “With the shortage of teachers and other skilled staff plaguing divisions, large and small, school divisions, including larger divisions such as Loudoun County, should be able to hire relatives of school board members,” the legislative program states. They are suggesting that the change in

Presentation on Advocating for Gifted Children Loudoun County Parents of Gifted Students will celebrate its fifth birthday Thursday, Nov. 16, with a presentation called “How to Effectively Advocate for your Gifted Child at School.” The group, known as LoCoPOGS, serves as an information and support resource for parents. The group’s membership is made up of more than 750 families with students attending public, private and home schools. The Nov. 16 event will include several speakers, including Broad Run High School Assistant Principal Chad Runfola and Loudoun Country Day School Head of School Randy Hollister, as well as several gifted education teachers. Parents and children are welcome, and birthday cake will be served. It is scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at a school near Leesburg. For security reasons, interested families are asked to email LoCoPOGS founder Chris Croll at chris@locoogs.org for the specific location.

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[ NONPROFIT NOTES ] Kuhn Receives Steward Award

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Tim Hudson and Kelly Jenkins, of The Home Depot distribution center in Winchester, piece together the patio of HeroHomes next veteran’s house in Round Hill on Oct. 28.

Volunteers Make Push to Complete Next HeroHome

BY NORMAN K. STYER urcellville-based HeroHomes is nearing completion of its second home built for a wounded military veteran. Volunteers are spending a lot of time on the 5-acre lot in Round Hill in hopes of moving Staff Sergeant Jarrad Davenport and his family in before the end of the year. On Oct. 28, three groups were at work—a team from E3 Federal Solutions, one from The Home Depot’s distribution centers in Winchester, and another from AmazingEarth Landscapes in Lovettsville. E3 Chief Delivery Officer Martin Mackes worked with his wife, Beth, and Robbie Ennis to finish off the home’s numerous window installations with a good cleaning and putting in the screens. Outside, the Home Depot crew was laying bricks for the backyard patio. On Monday, workers from Loudoun Valley Floors took over the

Loudoun Rotarians Donate $10K to Virgin Island Rebuilding Effort BY NORMAN K. STYER

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

site to install floor coverings throughout the home. Mackes said E3 is a veteran-owned company that makes time for employees to give back to the community. The E3 Cares program sets aside 40 hours of paid time for employees to support volunteer work. The company’s staffers have been out several times to help HeroHomes. “The one thing that I personally like is that it is local,” Mackes said of the HeroHomes program. “This isn’t a national thing. It is right here in our backyard.” Matthew Simpson, of Amazing Earth Landscapes, leads the hardscaping effort, including getting donations and discounts from suppliers. “Everybody comes together and makes it happen. It’s a great thing. Home Depot’s Kelly Jenkins said their work is part of the company’s celebration of service. The team became aware of the HeroHomes project after Jenkins saw a Facebook posting from a

It has been almost two months since the Virgin Islands took a double hit from Category 5 hurricanes Irma and Maria. This week, Loudoun’s Rotarians teamed up to help with the recovery effort that will take years to complete. The $10,000 check presented last week to a representative of the Rotary Club of St. Thomas will likely be just the first step of Loudoun’s Rotary outreach. Representatives of five Loudoun Ro-

tary clubs—Leesburg, Leesburg Daybreak, Purcellville, Ashburn and Sterling—gathered at the Tuscarora Mill restaurant in Leesburg to make the presentation to Mac Davis. After the storms, many club members asked about providing support, said Paul Bice, president of the Leesburg Daybreak club, but wanted to ensure their efforts would have a significant impact. “We wanted to help, but we didn’t know how to help,” Bice said. But a plan quickly fell into place be-

friend who had volunteered as part of a Dominion Energy team. “We totally jumped on it. It is an amazing thing. I’m super excited about it so, hopefully, we can continue to doing things with them in the future,” Jenkins said. Davenport, the home’s future resident, enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a 17-year-old. He was wounded during an IRAM rocket attack at an outpost in Iraq in 2011 and was moved to Walter Reed Hospital for his recovery. He is married to Latoya Davenport and has three sons. Since his return, Davenport has earned a master’s degree in cybersecurity from Colorado Technical University. HeroHomes completed its first house in Purcellville last year. A third home is planned near Hillsboro. Learn more at herohomesloudoun. org. nstyer@loudounnow.com

cause of a special link. The father of Joe Davis, the immediate past president of the Leesburg Daybreak Rotary Club, lives on St. Thomas and is a longtime Rotarian. Knowing donations would flow through a trusted, boots-on-theground source made the difference. Loudoun’s clubs joined together to collect donations, raising the $10,000 total in just weeks. Mac Davis was able to accept the donation in person because he was in Loudoun to receive medical treatment that isn’t available on the island after the storms. He said the Rotary Club of St. ThomROTARIANS >> 22

The Old Dominion Land Conservancy recently presented its Commonwealth Steward Award to Chuck Kuhn for preserv- Kuhn ing more than 1,000 acres in Loudoun County. The award was presented during a reception at the Middleburg Training Center, one of Kuhn’s latest preservation projects. Kuhn was praised for putting several farms into easement near Loudoun’s historic villages, including Egypt Farm near Lincoln, which had been previously owned by developers; as well as Rogues Hollow, a farm outside of Waterford. He also helped facilitate the easement of Camp Highroad near Philomont. “Together with many others in the greater Middleburg community, I am very appreciative of the work Chuck Kuhn and his family have done in renovating the Middleburg Training Center and in preserving this beautiful land through a conservation easement to the Old Dominion Land Conservancy,” Del. Randy Minchew (R-10) said at the awards presentation.

Contributed

These pups were guests at the Hannah Hershey Fund’s kick-off event Saturday in Leesburg.

New Hannah Hershey Fund Supports Sick Pups The new Hannah Hershey Fund, which provides financial assistance to help families in Northern Virginia pay for life-saving cancer treatments for their pets, held its kick-off event Saturday. The event was held at the Oncology Service’s LifeCentre West location in Leesburg. Husband-and-wife duo Amy Hershey and Heath Croll created the Hannah Hershey Fund in honor of their German Shepherd, Hannah, who died in August. The Hannah Hershey Fund will help expand the positive reach of the FETCH (Furthering Education and Treatment for Companion Health) Companions in Crisis Fund in Northern Virginia. Hannah was in remission for four and a half years, and HerNONPROFIT NOTES >> 22

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Rotarians << FROM 20 as is active in community service, including support for the Virgin Island’s only orphanage and several schools, among other activities. “I guarantee you these funds will be used to their highest ability and make sure the human part of the money is there, too. We are a very hands-on club,” Davis said. “That is the work that

is the most rewarding.” Several Loudoun club members asked Davis if they could travel to St. Thomas to help with the rebuilding effort. Davis said travel still is limited. The airport has reopened, but it will be next spring before flights fully ramp up. ”We had two direct hits in 13 days and 185 mile an hour winds in both cases, and 15 inches of rain in 24 hours in the second case,” Davis said. “It hit us pretty bad, but we are a resilient people. Unfortunately, we’ve had the

experience of having to accept help, which can be a difficult thing to do.” “This is a wonderful gift,” Davis said, adding that his club will be ready to welcome volunteers when the travel situation improves. “It’s getting to the point where the emergency part is over by the hard work of recovering is going to take years,” he said. “There will always be plenty of work.” nstyer@loudounnow.com

[ NONPROFIT NOTES ] << FROM 20 shey credits the access the German Shepherd had to quality medical care. “…We took her to the vet and a rehab specialist regularly. They called her a ‘miracle dog’ and said they had never seen such a survivor,” Hershey stated. “We believe that she had that chance to live and thrive for so long, because we had the funds to take care of her.” Learn more at fetchacure.org or facebook.com/HannahHersheyFund.

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Ashburn Rotary Club Cleans Up

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Leaders of five Loudoun Rotary clubs present a donation for hurricane relief to Mac Davis of St. Thomas.

Ashburn residents driving along Croson Lane on Saturday might have spotted a few yellow-vested neighbors doing their part to keep the community beautiful. About 20 members of the Rotary Club of Ashburn strapped on safety vests and loaded about two dozen bright orange bags with trash that had gathered alongside Croson Lane in recent months. The club adopted that two-mile stretch of Loudoun roadway about three years ago. The local Rotary club joined other volunteers in the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway program, about 18,000 of which collect more than 25,600 bags of waste each year in the state. VDOT estimates that the program saves Virginia more than $1.35 million in cleanup costs each year. Learn more about the program at virginiadot. org.

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Sarah and Stephen McCain of Ashburn held their wedding at Tranquility Farm near Purcellville.

Wedding Industry Infused Millions into Loudoun Economy

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

The management team at the Evergreen Sportsplex accepts the Small Business of the Year award for 2017.

Evergreen Sportsplex Takes Top Honors at Small Business Awards

BY LOUDOUN NOW STAFF

he Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Small Business Awards Ceremony drew its largest crowd ever Nov. 2 at the National Conference Center. Top winners were the Evergreen Sportsplex, as Small Business of the Year; and Krista Woods of GloveStix, who was named Entrepreneur of the Year. The Evergreen Sportsplex, located just south of Leesburg, won the Innovative Business of the Year award in 2016. It is the only complex in the U.S. with four FFIA-certified turf fields, but it is more than a youth sports complex. The 44-acre campus includes a team-building adventure course and zip line, a restaurant and a wellness center. The most recent addition is the FC Barcelona soccer school. But the mission of the company and its employees isn’t to groom the next big American soccer star. “We provide youth programing to develop character and leadership for kids who live in our community,” Managing Director Chris Bourassa said. “Those guys are committed to that mission and they do that every day.” Since inventing GloveStix two years

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Krista Woods, the creator of GloveStix, addresses a record crowd of more than 550 at the National Conference Center after being named Loudoun’s 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year.

Other winners were: Innovative Business of the Year: Automotive Quality Solutions Health and Wellness Business of the Year: Deidra Bird Kokel, DDS Tourism and Entertainment Business of the Year: Smokehouse Live Service Business of the Year: Morgan Orthodontics. Retail Business of the Year: KBF by Audi Contractors ago to combat the smell of her son’s sports equipment, Woods already has been featured nationally, including an appearance on NBC’s TODAY Show. On Sunday night, she inked a deal on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” to land a $150,000 investment. “Every single one of you out there who are entrepreneurs, who challenge

Home-based Business of the Year: Organizing Mentors Nonprofit Organization of the Year: Community Foundation of Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties. Rural Business of the Year: Old Ox Brewery. People’s Choice Award: Mr. Appliance of Leesburg and Martinsburg

themselves every day and who work you butt off, this award is not just for me, but it’s for all of you,” Woods said. “Because I know those days that are so hard and it is so challenging and there are days when you want to quit. And I also know the upside and the reward and the happiness when something amazing happens.”

Ashburn Mom, Inventor Cuts Investment Deal on ‘Shark Tank’ BY DANIELLE NADLER Krista Woods, an Ashburn mother of three and inventor of GloveStix, can now say she’s in business with former New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez and TV personality Lori Greiner. That news went public just before 11 p.m. Sunday night when the show “Shark Tank” aired on ABC. On the show, Rodriguez and Greiner agreed to invest $150,000 in GloveStix for 17.5 percent of the company. Woods has been keeping that huge secret to herself since June, when the episode was filmed. She said she didn’t even know until months later that the episode would air. “It’s really an insane

feeling to have this incredible secret that you’ve worked so hard for and you can’t share it with anybody,” she said. The show was televised just three days after Woods was named Entrepreneur of the Year during the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Small Business Awards program. GloveStix is a patented portable odor-management solution that kills bacteria, absorbs moisture and deodorizes athletic gloves, shoes, boots and skates. She invented the product after being overwhelmed by the smells coming from her kids and their equipment after picking them up from INVENTOR >> 27

The wedding industry contributed more than $118 million to Loudoun County’s economy last year, according to a study released by Visit Loudoun. The county boasts more than 55 wedding venue options that range from rustic barns and expansive vineyards, to historic mansions, full-service resorts and country clubs. According to a study conducted by the School of Business at The George Washington University, weddings in Loudoun had an overall economic impact of $118,606,290 in 2016 and generated $7,063,158 in state and local taxes. Loudoun wedding venues reported hosting an average of 42 weddings and 18 dress rehearsals in 2016, according to the study. More than 70 percent of the clients came from out of town, making it one of the strongest tourism drivers for Loudoun. “Wedding guests contributed nearly 30 percent of our total hotel demand in 2016,” Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson stated. “Not only did 90 percent of the estimated 207,000 wedding guests stay an average of two nights in our hotels, they also contributed to our economy by dining, shopping and enjoying all that Loudoun has to offer.” Learn more about Loudoun’s wedding industry at visitloudoun.org/weddings.

Dr. Williamson Opens New Family Practice The Loudoun Medical Group has announced that one of its founding shareholder physicians, Dr. Valerie Williamson, has established a new family medicine practice. The practice will complement the services offered by the Loudoun Medical Group. Williamson, who has served the Loudoun community since 1994 and previously practiced with Potomac Family Practice, opened her practice Nov. 1. “On behalf of the entire board and staff, I want to congratulate Dr. Williamson on openBIZ NOTES >> 29

Nov. 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15, 2017 LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

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Community and government leaders took part in a ceremonial groundbreaking for the ION International Training Center Nov. 1. The 100,000-square-foot, dual ice rink will also have arena seating and a multifunctional floor to host non-ice events. It is expected to open in July 2018.

Ice Rink, Training Center Breaks Ground in Leesburg

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BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

LoudounNow

Construction is underway for the ION International Training Center, a year-round, two-rink center, and the county’s first indoor arena with stadium seating. It’s the culmination of a dream for owner Luiz Taifas, an Olympic figure skater for the Romanian national team who has spent the past few years training young Northern Virginians. The 100,000-square-foot center in the Peterson Companies’ Compass Creek development just south of Leesburg will house two National Hockey League-size rinks serving recreational and professional ice sports, and will also contain a multi-functional floor that will allow the arena to be used for non-ice-relat-

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ed events, such as school graduations, sporting tournaments and concerts. The opening is planned for July 2018 and, if all goes well in the first three years, Taifas said he hopes to add two more rinks. Speaking to the crowd of supporters gathered for last week’s groundbreaking ceremony, Taifas said for the better part of the past 12 years he has been “wondering loudly” why the Northern Virginia area did not have an Olympic-caliber training center. “It took people, mostly my wife, saying, ‘why don’t you stop complaining and do it,’” he recalled with laughter. Taifas said he and his wife, Mitra Setayesh, took the past few years to put

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ICE RINK >> 28

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the plans for ION together, “because it had to be done right.” “My life since [the age of] 6 has been in ice rinks. I took notes on what was done wrong and right, and this will be done right,” he said. The finished product will be a recreational and entertainment amenity for the community, and could also be the training home of future Olympians, Taifas said. Michael Weiss, an Olympic figure skater, was one of the VIPs on hand for the groundbreaking ceremony. He said he shared his friend’s dream of having an Olympic-caliber training center in Northern Virginia. “To now have something like this right in our backyard is just unbelievable,” Weiss said. “Maybe another Brian Boitano or Alex Ovechkin will come out of this.” Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk said she and other town leaders were “excited and thrilled” when they first heard about the ION project, albeit a little sad that the center will sit just outside of town boundaries. “But the boundary sits right there,” she said, pointing, “so we can kind of count it.” Supervisor Kristen Umstattd (D-Leesburg) called ION “an exciting project for Leesburg and Loudoun County,” that achieves a dream shared by community leaders of bringing a “premiere addition to the sports community.” Setayesh noted that Peterson Com-

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panies President Taylor Chess “was one of the first to catch the ION bug.” Both she and Taifas thanked Peterson Companies for its support of the project, and Chess expressed excitement that the Compass Creek development, located on 450 acres between Leesburg Executive Airport and the Dulles Greenway, could land such an anchor. “The idea of what they wanted to create was such a great catalyst for a project like Compass Creek,” he said. “This will promote tourism as well as an activity for residents.” ION will have a new neighbor not long after its planned summer 2018 opening. A Walmart SuperCenter is expected to open at Compass Creek in the first quarter of 2019. Before the ceremony concluded, and the hockey sticks dug into the earth for the ceremonial groundbreaking, Taifas thanked the many individuals who made the project possible, from investors and business partners to developer Peterson Companies and the Loudoun County and Town of Leesburg staffs and government leaders. He joked that he had been warned about working with the county and how it would hold up their building process. “Over the past two years we’ve been pleasantly surprised by the so-called bureaucrats,” he said, noting that both the town and county immediately bought into his vision and the project overall. “Today, we have the permits to start our dream. I’m so humbled and excited by the sports family and the community’s support.” krodriguez@loudounnow.com

[ BIZ NOTES ] ing her own practice,” stated Mary Beth Tamasy, chief executive officer of Loudoun Medical Group. “The addition of this new Family Medicine practice strengthens Loudoun Medical Group as it adds to our growing list of quality health care services.” To learn more about the practice, which has locations in Sterling and Leesburg, call 571-707-2079.

Burger 21 Ashburn Recognized Burger 21 recently celebrated its top performing franchisees, and the Ashburn location received some kudos. Alexis Shanks, Ray Patel and Joseph Yu from the Burger 21 at 43800

Squisito Pizza & Pasta is celebrating its newest location in Ashburn with a grand opening event from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18. The event includes giveaways, a bouncy house and a chance to sample from the restaurant’s menu. Squisito Pizza & Pasta is at 44050 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Suite 147, in Ashburn. Learn more at squisitopizzaandpasta.com.

The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications from Loudoun-based nonprofit organizations seeking financial assistance to support their work in the community. Nonprofit members of the chamber are eligible to apply. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Dec. 1. Since May of 2015, the Loudoun Chamber Foundation has awarded $27,500 in grants to 13 area nonprofit organizations. Last year, through both the Loudoun Chamber Foundation and other fundraising activities, the chamber donated more than $24,000 to area nonprofit organizations. The grant application can be found at loudounchamber.org/non-profit-initiative. Direct questions to chamber President and CEO Tony Howard at thoward@loudounchamber.org.

Inventor << FROM 24

Whether you’re looking for Independent Living, Assisted Living or Inspiritás - Memory Care, Ashleigh at Lansdowne is committed to taking senior living to the next level. From our diverse enrichment and social programs including RUI University to our exceptional fine dining experience, we deliver valued living all in the comfort of your new picturesque home. Call (703) 345-6912 for more information, and to schedule a personal tour.

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dnadler@loudounnow.com

PURPOSEFUL LIVING.

sports practices. She first made national airwaves in 2016 when she was named a finalist on TODAY Show’s Next Big Thing contest. On the program, the “Shark Tank” judges raised concerns that Woods’ quest for perfection would hinder the opportunities for the company’s growth and profitability, but Rodriguez and Greiner said they were inspired by her passion and early struggles as a single mother. Rodriguez said he was well aware of the odor problems in sports, including some of the players with whom he shared the Yankee’s locker room. Woods told them that she had resisted the urgings of friends and advisors to apply to “Shark Tank,” but finally agreed to take the risk. “It was my fear talking,” she said. “I know you guys can take my product to the next level.” On Sunday night, Woods gathered with a couple of hundred friends and family members at The Zone in Ashburn for a “Shark Tank” watch party. “I was celebrating the success of just being aired, but not necessarily of making a deal,” said Woods, who added that about 50,000 people applied for “Shark Tank” and only 80 were aired. “These people felt I was worth being on national television—that’s really cool.” The details of the deal she struck with Rodriguez and Greiner are still being worked out. “We’re in the due diligence stage right now,” Woods added. But if the uptick in sales, emails and phone calls to Woods Monday morning are any indication, the success of GloveStix is just getting started.

Castle Property Management, located in Ashburn, has acquired Gold Leaf Property Management. Gold Leaf was at the point of either expanding its property management base or focusing on core real estate business. “When the decision was made to focus on real estate, it was important to find a company that shared our high standard of customer service and had the infrastructure already in place to handle the growth,” stated Brian Whritenour, managing partner of Gold Leaf. Castle Property Management provides residential property management for homeowners in Northern Virginia. Learn more at castlepm.com.

Squisito Opens in Ashburn

Chamber Accepting Nonprofit Grant Applications

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Castle Acquires Gold Leaf Property Management

Waltonwood Ashburn, a senior living community that will welcome its first residents at the end of the month, is holding a “sneak peek event.” From 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, guests can tour the community, listen to live music from Little City Jazz, and enjoy hors d’oeuvres prepared by Waltonwood director of culinary services John Harder. The event is free and open to the public, guests are asked to RSVP in advance by calling 571-931-5233. Learn more about Waltonwood Ashburn at waltonwood.com.

Central Station Drive in Ashburn were recognized for “best marketing.” “In the growing better burger sector, our franchisees set us apart,” stated Mark Johnston, president of Burger 21. “Our franchisees play an integral role in elevating the Burger 21 brand and without their hard work each day we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

Waltonwood Hosts Open House

<< FROM 24

[ OUR TOWNS ]

Nov. 9 9 –– 15, 15, 2017 2017 Nov.

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Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Cool Temps Give Way to Fall Colors Fall colors in the Blue Ridge and western Loudoun are peaking now and, at higher elevations, are a little past peak. Bears Den, pictured here, offers some of the region’s best autumn views.

Four Vie for Purcellville Council Seat

urcellville Town Council met Monday night to review the qualifications of four candidates who applied to fill a vacant seat. Because only four applicants are needed to interview, council ended the meeting early without going into a closed session. Theodore F. Greenly, Renzo Rodriguez, Jeffrey Scott and Tip Stinnette responded to the town’s call for applicants to finish the term of Kelli Grim, who resigned effective Nov. 3 because her family is moving. Applications for the interim council position were due at 5 p.m. Monday.

Another special meeting will be held at 5 p.m. Nov. 14 for the council to conduct interviews in open session and make an appointment. According to Town Clerk Diana Hays, Clerk of the Loudoun County Circuit Court Gary Clemens will work directly with the new council member next week to schedule a swearing in. Hays said without knowing the new council member’s schedule, nothing can be set up yet. Clemens is available on the 15th, 16th and later in the day on the 17th. Greenly, a resident of Wooden Bridge Drive, served 12 years in the U.S. Army and has worked as a telecommunica-

tions officer for the federal government since 1992. “Decisions made now will impact our community for the foreseeable future with regard to schools, infrastructure and public services,” Greenly wrote. “My 30-plus years of combined military and federal service has afforded me the experience and knowledge to help the current council govern our town if I am called upon. Simply put, I wish to be a part of the team that consistently puts our town residents at the focal point of their decision-making process…” Rodriguez, who lives on Towering Oak Court, was recently appointed to

Lohr Tapped to Assist Round Hill BY MARGARET MORTON Former Purcellville Town Manager Rob Lohr has signed on with the Town of Round Hill to act as a parttime project advisor. The town had advertised the position to help Town Administrator Buster Nicolson manage various projects. Three responses were received. Lohr stepped down from his Purcellville post in July after 24 years. His retirement didn’t last long. He quickly signed on with the Charlottesville-based consultancy The Berkley Group to lend his expertise to help local governments. The new Round Hill contract is separate from those assignments. Lohr started work with the town last week. Terms of his contract

are still being worked out, Nicolson said, but initially the contract will be for 15 hours a week, with Lohr helping direct various infrastructure projects. Lohr “He will be a project specialist and support for me, to have a finger of the pulse of our various projects, and attending meetings,” Nicolson said. “We are very happy to have him. There’s a lot going on around here.” Two projects that have been planned for more than a decade are

coming to fruition—the Round Hill to Franklin Park Trail and the town’s Sleeter Lake Park. The town and county governments are securing easements for the trail and preparing for the installation of kayak storage, bike racks, toilets and signage at the park. Another major project coming up is the construction of the Yatton loop water line and another water tower south of town, Nicolson said. “He’s a great resource and we definitely appreciate him and his service,” Nicolson said. For his part, Lohr said he was happy to be able to assist the Town Council, with which he has had a long relationship. mmorton@loudounnow.com

the town’s Economic Development Advisory Committee. He works as senior technical sales executive for NetApp in Vienna. “We live in a wonderful small town that has such a desired appeal and charisma that it has attracted many of us to live here and will continue to attract many more to move to Purcellville in the future,” he wrote. “I would like to be an active member in the governance of our town so that I can help in the proactive and mindful development and execution of all future strategic initiatives that will impact the lives of all the members of our community. If given the opportunity I believe that I can make a significant positive impact to the town as a member of the Town Council.” Scott, a resident of West Country Club Drive since 2012, is the owner of Global Identity Solutions LLC. “I strongly believe that my background coupled with my love of the historic charm of this town will help continue to lead Purcellville down a path of sustainable growth in addition to the restoration of its small town rural roots,” Scott wrote. Stinnette, a resident of Oakleigh Court, is the director of Air Traffic Safety Standards Oversight for the Federal Aviation Administration and a retired U.S. Air Force colonel. He holds a master’s degrees in public administration and strategic studies. He also serves on the town’s planning commission. “I understand the workings of the town government, I know the issues you all have been working, and I have firsthand insight of the planning effort for the future,” he wrote. “I am an advocate for protecting and preserving the Purcellville way of life, which I believe is consistent with the council’s views as well as our community’s expressed desires.”

[ TOWN NOTES ]

Veterans Day Ceremony Planned

Contributed

Joanna Willard will lead the Lovettsville Co-op’s Nov. 19 wreath-making workshop.

Co-op Holds Wreath Workshop The Lovettsville Co-op will host a fresh evergreen wreath-making workshop on Sunday, Nov. 19, starting at 2 p.m. at the Lovettsville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Hall. Participants are encouraged to bring items from their own backyards—such as holly berries and pine cones—to incorporate into their creations. The Coop will provide evergreens, decorative pieces and materials for a bow. The cost is $20 for co-op members and $25 for non-members. Preregistration is required at lovettsville-grocery. com/events.

Concert to Benefit House Fire Victims A benefit for the Fulmer and Jones families, whose homes were badly damaged in a fire last month, will be held at the Lovettsville Game Protective Association Saturday, Nov. 11. The event will run from 2 p.m. to midnight and will feature four bands— The Immortals, After Paris, Cross and Arrow Band and Ghost Pepper. Food, wine, beer and cocktails will also be sold. Suggested donations at the door are $10 for adults and $5 for children. All proceeds will benefit the two families’ efforts to rebuild.

PURCELLVILLE

Christmas Parade Applications Available Those wishing to join in the town’s Dec. 9 Christmas parade are encouraged to file an application. Businesses, organizations, clubs, schools, individuals and families are invited to be a part of the parade, which

is part of a full weekend of holiday activities. Applications, due Dec. 1, can be downloaded from the events page of the town website, purcellvilleva.gov. For more information, contact town Events Specialist Hibah Salah at 540-751-2390 or hsalah@purcellvilleva.gov.

Written by native Virginian and Round Hill resident Ann Whitehead Thomas, the book features historical information from the town combed from county courthouse records, Town Council minutes, newspaper articles, census records, church histories, family records and interviews with residents.

ROUND HILL

MIDDLEBURG

Town History Book Available

Antique Fair This Weekend at Hill School

Round Hill history buffs can stop by the town office to pick up a copy of “A Story of Round Hill.” The 257-page book is back in stock and available for $15.

Antique lovers are invited to attend the 26th annual Hunt Country Fall AnTOWN NOTES >> 33

The Lovettsville Veterans Day Ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Veterans Memorial in Town Square. U.S. Navy Lt. Junior Grade Matthew Powell, the commanding officer of the Sea Cadets Viking division in Purcellville, will be the keynote speaker. Powell’s division will act as the color guard for the ceremony. The Lovettsville Elementary School chorus will perform for attendees and Loudoun Sheriff ’s Office Deputy Sean McCarten will play bagpipes.

The nonprofit Discover Purcellville coordinated the bench and planter-painting project, which gave 50 Loudoun artists the chance to paint the 30 benches and 20 wooden planters with different themes. To purchase tickets, go to brownpapertickets.com/event/3024012.

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

LOVETTSVILLE

Painted Benches, Planters Up for Auction

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Purcellville’s painted benches and planters, which have been on display around town since June, will be auctioned off on Saturday at the Purcellville Skating Rink, starting at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and includes refreshments. All money raised at the auction—to be conducted by Brian Damewood—will be used to fund future community projects, like the 110 hand-painted holiday decorations that will line Main Street in December.

Nov. 9 9 –– 15, 15, 2017 2017 Nov.

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A LOUDOUN MOMENT PHOTO ESSAY BY DOUGLAS GRAHAM

Cyclocross Bike Race Comes to Middleburg Cyclists took over the grounds of Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg on Oct. 29 for Tacchino Cyclocross’ fifth race in the Super 8 Series. Racing took place in the rain and mud, which made the race even more exciting for fans on the sidelines. Cyclocross is a form of bike racing that includes several laps and obstacles that require riders to quickly dismount, carry their bike while navigating the obstruction and remount. Sunday’s race included young riders in their first race to national

champions and pros. Warrenton’s Old Bust Head Brewing Company sponsored many fields with the top-finishers winning brewery tours and tastings, as well as other prizes. Several Old Bust Head beers were available at the food and beer tent, which was catered by Salamander Resort & Spa. The race was put on in partnership with local food bank Seven Loaves, to collect food for those in need. Seven Loaves had a tent at the race to collect non-perishable foods or monetary donations.

Teen Center Operator on Outside of Fireman’s Field Talks BY PATRICK SZABO

pszabo@loudounnow.com

<< FROM 31 tiques Fair this weekend at The Hill School in Middleburg. The event will run Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fair will be held indoors and outdoors and feature antiques up to 300 years old. Dealers from across the nation will be selling furniture, folk art, silver, jewelry and more. Market Salamander will cater the event. Admission is $10—$9 with a printout from the fair’s website, dfshows.com.

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ue hosting birthday parties. According to Janet Clarke, a former Town Council member and Blue Ridge District supervisor who helped found the teen center, it will be good for Purcellville if the new management keeps similar events and programs in place. “The community needs something,” she said. “The most beneficial thing is going to be for them to retain some type of program for the kids.” Message said he doesn’t know what will happen after December if the teen center doesn’t work something out with one of the firms.

33 Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

As Purcellville prepares for new management to take over the Fireman’s Field complex on Jan. 1, it is expected to terminate the contract with the Purcellville Teen Center. Currently, the teen center is under contract to manage operations in the 8,500-square-foot Bush Tabernacle until October 2020. It pays the town $3.67 per square foot, $31,200 annually. The county’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services manages the sports fields, but will not renew its lease for 2018. The Town Council is hoping to generate more revenue from the complex and sought proposals from companies interested in taking over management and upkeep of the property, including the skating rink, two ball fields and a picnic area. Phil Message, the teen center’s president, said he didn’t respond to the town’s request for individuals and companies interested in managing the property because he already had a contract with the town. He also said he didn’t respond because the town stated it would give preference to a firm that would manage the entire property, which his staff is not geared up to do. The town received one response from a trio of vendors—Lifeview Real Estate, Play to Win and nonprofit ECHO. That proposal is under review by the council and has not been made public. The council is expected to accept or reject the application at its Nov. 14 meeting. Representatives of the applicants have declined to discuss details of their proposal until the council releases the information. Mayor Kwasi Fraser said he told Message last month that it would be a good idea to partner with one of the three responding firms. “[Phil] had an opportunity to respond to the RFP (request for proposal), but he did not,” Fraser said. “The train has left the station.” According to Message, the teen center has been in touch with Lifeview Real Estate, but nothing has been worked out yet. He said if the town asked him to stay and pay more in rent, he would. “That’s what they should have done,” he said. “We could have had that conversation and we still can.” In May 2015, the teen center offered to increase its rent payments to $50,000 annually, he said. At the time, the town couldn’t accept the offer because of the debt structure, which was changed earlier this year as part of a bond refinancing. However, to work around this, the teen center contract was amended to make it responsible for up to $18,800 in HVAC and fire sprinkler system maintenance, fire alarm monitoring and parking lot lighting. According to the teen center’s records, it pays about $14,000 annually for these expenses. “We agreed to pay up to $50,000 one way or another,” Message said. “We don’t care in what form we pay it.” Although Message’s team may be moving out by the end of the year, the new management could run similar, if not identical, events in the tabernacle. According to their informal responses in the spring before they teamed up

to make a formal proposal to the town, Lifeview Real Estate and Play to Win indicated they would continue teen activities at the tabernacle. Lifeview Real Estate indicated it would keep certain events going and add others like basketball camps, a Purcellville family dinner or luncheon, a parents’ night out and marriage, parenting and family teaching events. Play to Win’s response stated that its, “experience with event planning, marketing and execution at the Evergreen Sportsplex will directly translate to offerings at the Bush Tabernacle.” It indicated it would host camps, clinics, corporate outings and other programs. Both respondents stated they would keep the roller skating rink and contin-

[ TOWN NOTES ]

[ LOCO LIVING ]

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

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Loudoun Now/File Photo

Die-hard Jingle Jam fans line up hours before the break of dawn to purchase tickets which go on sale Monday for the December 9 show.

Jingle All the Daylong Loudoun’s Holiday All-Star Band Returns; Ticket Sales Open (Early) Monday

BY SAMANTHA BARTRAM

uring the past eight years, a quiet local holiday tradition has been building, and this writer’s not talking about the phenomenon that is the annual Jingle Jam concert. No, this pilgrimage begins weeks earlier under the cover of darkness. Bleary-eyed and often shivering from the cold, dozens of people begin queueing up at Ida Lee Recreation Center—some, like Joy Griffith, her niece Lucy Campbell, and Campbell’s husband Ryan, hours before dawn breaks. Griffith is one of the first in line every year. She brings a lawn chair, a book, hand warmers and coffee, and this year she plans to stake her spot in line by midnight. “And I guarantee you, I won’t be the first one,” she said. Griffith and other veterans of this exercise, themselves clutching doughnuts or tiny, steaming breakfast burritos from Anita’s, are all waiting for the magic hour—5 a.m., when Jingle Jam ticket sales open—and their eager planning is never for naught. “This is our ninth year and, so far, every show has been a sell-out,” Jingle Jam founder and organizer Stilson Greene said. “[Tickets for] the evening show go first, usually in 30 minutes.” And that’s what all those eager folks, faithfully sitting in line for hours, are

Ed Soloman

Jingle Jam’s annual lineup includes award-winning favorites Todd Wright, Jon Carroll, Michael Sheppard, Cal Everett, and Gary Smallwood, among others. This year’s show is Dec. 9.

2018 Jingle Jam Holiday Concert Saturday, Dec. 9

8:30 p.m.: Evening show

11:30 a.m.: Junior Jam, a special 30-minute performance just for kids, featuring a full band and a rockin’ appearance from Santa Claus

Admission: Junior Jam: $5 Matinee and evening shows: $25

Noon-1 p.m.: Pictures with rock ‘n’ roll Santa on the Town Green (open to all; donations requested) 2:30 p.m.: Matinee show

Proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Ticket sales open at 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 13, at Ida Lee Recreation Center in Leesburg. There is a five-ticket-per-person maximum.

All performances take place at the Tally Ho Theater 19 W. Market St. in Leesburg

waiting for: evening show tickets. Most everyone who has had the pleasure of holidaying here in Loudoun knows about the popularity of Jingle Jam, and that interest in the raucous show only seems to grow exponentially, year over year. Greene and his compatriots have done their best to accommodate all that verve, expanding to three shows on performance day: one earlier in the day for kids (the adorable Junior Jam), a merry matinee, and the magnetic and revered evening show. And although people have proven more than willing to drag themselves from warm and cozy beds to cop a seat at that most coveted of concerts, Greene issues a helpful reminder: “The afternoon show is the same show as the evening show, just earlier.” Indeed, as this writer can attest, during last year’s evening Jingle Jam performance, charismatic front man Todd Wright gleefully taunted the audience about the jokes and camaraderie that took place during the earlier, afternoon show, which all of us evening-goers had missed. These many months later it’s impossible to recall the exact razzing, but the message resonates even today: really cool stuff happens at all Jingle Jam shows, and particularly at both adult-friendly sets, no matter the show time. “To me, it’s really special because JINGLE JAM >> 38

Fine Cabinetry for the Entire Home

The LoCo Brewers Association is ramping up a new festival that organizers hope will help take the industry to new heights. On Saturday, Nov. 11, 18 Loudoun County breweries will set up at Leesburg Executive Airport for the first LoCo Hangar Fest. In the ProJet hangar, patrons can meet with the county’s top brewery owners and its most creative brewers. They’ll be pouring 36 beers—including the debuts of several winter brews. The festival is comprised of two three-hour sessions. Tickets are available for the first session, from noon to 3 p.m., and the second session, from

4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. The event is for adults 21 years and older. Each patron will receive unlimited 4-ounce samples, an 11-ounce commemorative glass and one free ticket for “Let it Fly”—a cornhole toss for chances to win raﬄe prizes. For a donation to the Wholehearted Foundation, patrons can sample a special beer brewed to support the charity’s efforts to help children battling life-threatening heart disease. Food will be available from Popcorn Monkey, Churrology and Blackfinn Ameripub–Ashburn. For tickets and more details, go to loudounnow.com/hangarfest2017.

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Loudoun Brews Take Flight at First LoCo Hangar Fest

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

CABINET SHOWPLACE

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[ THINGS TO DO ] LOCO CULTURE

Center in cooperation with the Town of Leesburg and Loudoun County honor veterans with a ceremony and speech from keynote speaker General Dennis Via. Event is free and open to the public. No parking is available on site. Visitors can park at the Loudoun County Government Center garage.

PARK VIEW CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

Saturday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Park View High School, 400 W. Laurel Ave., Sterling. Details: facebook.com/ parkviewcraftshow

Bryan Mattraw

Ceramics from Bryan Mattraw are one of the highlights of the Catoctin Holiday Art Tour.

CATOCTIN HOLIDAY ART TOUR Saturday, Nov. 11 and Sunday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lovettsville area. Details: catoctinart.com Shop local this holiday season with gorgeous handmade art, including jewelry, ceramics, paintings, woodwork and fiber arts. Check out the website for a map and list of participating artists.

MARSHALL HOUSE VETERANS DAY COMMEMORATION

Shop from more than 75 artisans and vendors offering everything from jewelry and pottery to candles and essential oils. Bake sales, raffles, donations and concessions benefit various PVHS school groups. Vendor fees support Park View’s Project Graduation. Admission is free.

DAVID NORTON POTTERY OPEN HOUSE

Courtesy of Sterling Playmakers

Saturday, Nov. 11 and Sunday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; David Norton Pottery, 18005 Kullgren Road, Round Hill. Details: davidnortonpottery.com

‘MAN OF LA MANCHA’

One of Loudoun’s most beloved artisans opens his doors for his annual fall show featuring bowls, plates, mugs, vegetable steamers and vases.

Inspired by Miguel Cervantes’ “Don Quixote,” “Man of La Mancha” is one of the all-time great musicals of the American stage. It’s the powerful, hilarious and heartbreaking story of a dying old man who refuses to relinquish his ideals or his passion, following his dreams of avoiding his mortal enemy The Enchanter and pursuing Dulcinea, the woman of his dreams. Tickets are $15. Performances continue Nov. 17-19.

ON STAGE ‘THE TRAGEDY OF MADAME BUTTERFLY’

Saturday, Nov. 11, 10:15 a.m.; George C. Marshall International Center, 312 E. Market St., Leesburg. Details: georgecmarshall.org

Saturday Nov. 11, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday Nov. 12, 3 p.m.; Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. Details: loudounlyricopera.com

The George C. Marshall International

Loudoun Lyric Opera presents an

Friday, Nov. 10 and Saturday, Nov. 11, 8 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 12, 2 p.m.; Seneca Ridge Middle School, 98 Seneca Ridge Drive, Sterling. Details: sterlingplaymakers.com.

intimate chamber adaptation of the Puccini grand opera. Featuring the plot and score of Puccini’s work with a smaller scope. The retelling retains the famous musical highpoints of the Puccini original in 95 minutes. The piece will be sung in English. Tickets are $27 for adults, $22 for seniors, $17 for college

students $12 for youth 7 to 18 and free for children 6 and under. LLO presents an encore performance Saturday, Nov. 18 at 8 p.m. at Leesburg Junction.

MORE TO DO >> 37

[ THINGS TO DO ] Sunday, Nov. 12, 8 a.m.; Loudoun Valley Community Center, 320 W. School St., Purcellville. Details: facebook.com/ lvccturkeytrot

Join the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition and special guest Hannah Shaw, AKA the Kitten Lady, for two meetand-greet workshops on her kitten rescue efforts. Tickets are $30 and advance registration is required.

Now in its 13th year, the annual run benefits the LVCC advisory board’s financial aid program for preschool, childcare and camps.

LOCO HANGAR FEST Courtesy of Waterford Concert Series

Sunday, Nov. 12, 4 p.m.; Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St., Waterford. Details: waterfordconcertseries.com One of the series’ most prestigious acts to date, the trio features cellist David Finckel, violist Paul Neubauer and violinist Arnaud Sussmann for an evening of gorgeous string essentials by Beethoven, Penderecki and Mozart. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for students and free for children 12 and under.

CREEK’S EDGE HARVEST BONFIRE Saturday Nov. 11 4-8 p.m.; Creek’s Edge Winery 41255 Anna’s Lane Lovettsville. Details: The gorgeous winery near the village of Taylorstown lights a bonfire to enjoy the open sky and celebrate the end of harvest season with live music and wine, mulled wine and s’mores for sale.

WHISKERS AND WINE AT 8 CHAINS NORTH Saturday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m. and 1:30

Eighteen Loudoun breweries descend on ProJet’s hangar for an opportunity to taste new releases and meet brewers. The event features two sessions and tickets for each session are $35 in advance $40 at the door. Advance purchase is recommended. Event is for adults 21 and over.

FUN FOR A CAUSE VETERANS MOVING FORWARD FUNDRAISER Saturday, Nov. 11, noon-4 p.m.; Downtown Saloon, 7 N. King St., Leesburg. Contact: 703-669-3090 Enjoy an afternoon of live music, raffles and drink specials to benefit the Veterans Moving Forward nonprofit.

CHAD DUKE’S VETERAN’S DAY JAMBOREE Saturday, Nov. 11, 6 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com The inaugural jamboree features Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Jesse Dayton and Swamp Candy, prizes, beer and

NIGHTLIFE Courtesy of Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band

Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band headlines the inaugural Veterans Day Jamboree at Smokehouse Live. barbecue. Proceeds go to Stop Soldier Suicide. Tickets are $20 in advance.

LIVE MUSIC: CRACK THE SKY Friday, Nov. 10, 7 p.m.; Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: tallyhotheater.com Drawing comparisons to Steely Dan, these progressive rockers have been

MORE TO DO >> 38

CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTER TRIO

Saturday, Nov. 11, noon and 4 p.m.; ProJet Aviation, 1001 Sycolin Road, Leesburg. Details: projetaviation.com

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

LVCC TURKEY TROT 5K AND FUN RUN

p.m.; 8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. Details: loudouncommunitycats.org

<< FROM 36

loudounnow.com

[ THINGS TO DO ]

loudounnow.com

<< FROM 37 doing their thing since the 1970s and are still going strong. Tickets are $30 in advance.

LIVE MUSIC: KEETON Friday, Nov. 10, 9 p.m.; Smokehouse Live, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg. Details: smokehouse-live.com

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

Crack the Sky 11/10/17 Doors: 7:00PM

Red Not Chili Peppers

11/11/17 Doors: 7:00PM

Enjoy 90s hits from Stone Temple Pilots, Weezer, Oasis and other alt-rock favorites. No cover.

LIVE MUSIC: RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS Saturday, Nov. 11, 7 p.m.; Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. Details: tallyhotheater.com Pays tribute to the ultimate ’90s funk quartet with its devotion to that signature chili pepper sound. Tickets are $10 in advance.

Eric Gales

BEATLES SING-ALONG

Courtesy of Lawrance Brand

Saturday, Nov. 11, 7-9:30 p.m.; Leesburg United Methodist Church, 107 W. Market St., Leesburg. Contact: 302-639-7608 This monthly sing-along is catching on with Beatles lovers from around the region. All levels are welcome. Bring an instrument or just your voice. Songbooks are provided. Event is free. RSVPs are appreciated.

with colin thompson 11/16/17 Doors 7:00PM

LIVE MUSIC: KERRY MCCOOL

Tribute to Neil Young:

Saturday, Nov. 11, 9 p.m.; French Hound Brasserie, 19286 Promenade Drive, Leesburg. Details: frenchhoundbrasserie.com

Broken Arrow

11/17/17 Doors 7:00PM

Kid Brother

W/Milo & The Doldrums & Bluewreck 11/18/17 Doors 7:00PM

Nate Good 11/25/17 Doors 7:00PM

an evening with

Edwin McCain 12/01/17 Doors: 7PM

Almost Queen 12/02/17 Doors: 7PM

Here Come the Mummies 12/07/17 Doors: 7PM

Jingle Jam

Two Really Big Shows! 12/09/17 2:30 PM Matinee & 8:30 PM

80’s New Years Eve Party w/

the Reagan Years

12/31/17 Doors: 7PM

Now Open Tues. through Sun. for Lunch & Dinner

Credit: John Mazlish

HOUSE CONCERT: RUPERT WATES Saturday, Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m., Broadlands. Contact: musicontheheights@gmail.com The latest in the Music on The Heights house concert series features Londonborn Wates whose eclectic mix of acoustic, melodic art/folk music blends flavors of jazz, vaudeville and cabaret. Suggested donation is $15-$20 in cash, with all proceeds going to the musicians. Music begins at 8 p.m. Contact the organizers for the address.

Jingle Jam << FROM 34 [the afternoon show is] the first time we do the whole show with full sound and lights,” Greene said. “The band is on 11 and full of energy. The idea that the matinee is different than the evening show is not true. I would ask anyone who has been to it for their opinion.” Another important aspect is that 100 percent of generated proceeds—including ticket sales to any performance and concessions sales—benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. “Last year we raised over $16,400, our biggest total ever,” Greene said, adding that he hopes to match or surpass that total in 2017. So, no matter when you Jam, there you’ll be, enjoying the excellent musicianship of the Jingle Jam Band, which is delivered with equal passion, hilarity and love, regardless of where the hands on the clock may land. For information about opening ticket sales, contact Ida Lee at 703-7771368. To learn more about the work of JDRF, go to jdrf.org. Keep your eyes on loudounnow.com

A longtime local favorite, McCool is known for a solid but fresh course of classic and contemporary rock peppered with Americana, blues and a little folk. No cover.

COMING UP FREEZE YOUR GIZZARD 5K AND MILE RUN Saturday, Nov. 18, 8 a.m.; Ida Lee Recreation Center, 60 Ida Lee Drive, NW, Leesburg. Details: leesburgva.gov The 15th annual pre-Thanksgiving run benefits Loudoun Hunger Relief. Advance registration fee is $25 for the 5K and $10 for the fun run.

Loudoun Now File photo

Following are some notables to keep in mind as you plan your ideal Jingle Jam experience: • Regarding the Junior Jam, set for 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, says Greene: “Junior Jam will have a full-band show this year—we will still be gentler and will play all the Christmas kids’ classics and the Jingle Jam Santa, complete with his pink Hello Kitty guitar, will make his annual appearance. We thought we’d give the kids a taste of a rock band—for some, it may be their first! Again, still soft, but kids love a drummer.” • Wright, ever the overachiever, has reportedly designed a new stage set. Per Greene, “it is a beautiful new look that will enhance the total Jingle Jam experience.”

Ed Soloman

• The band will play some new tunes, but will faithfully represent all the fan favorites on each performance set list. Greene says, because Wright’s new stage set is so darn impressive, “with the new look, we have to add some new songs.” • A friendly reminder, Jingle Jam observes a strict no-alcohol policy along with no outside food, drinks, cups or containers. Yes, this is to boost concessions sales, because all sales benefit JDRF.

and getoutloudoun.com for the latest updates and information as we approach the 2017 Jingle Jam.

sbartram@getoutloudoun.com

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Students and staff at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center work on a horse that was in for a sonogram.

joined the center’s team. Paul Goodness has been shoeing horses for four decades. He served as the U.S. Equestrian Team farrier from 1992-1996 and used his skillset in the 1996 Olympic games in Atlanta. “It is unusual to have someone like that working alongside the faculty in close collaboration,” said Peart. Moving into 2018, the center will be working toward goals set by its threeyear strategic plan, including renovations, equipment purchases and building new facilities. The largest initiative

CRACK THE SKY

Friday, Nov. 10, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, Leesburg

LOUDOUN CAT COALITION

Whiskers & Wine Fall Fundraiser Saturday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. 8 Chains North Winery, Waterford

is the construction of a $1.5 million, 100-by-200-foot indoor arena that will feature soft, firm and hard surfaces— giving the staff the ability to see how horses fare on each one. “[The arena] is really to advance our ability to observe a horse under a certain circumstance,” Erskine said. Although the center is still raising funds to match a $750,000 grant, it expects to have the arena built in the next 10 months. The Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center was created in 1984 af-

ter a 200-acre donation from the Westmoreland Davis Foundation and a $4 million gift from Marion duPont, an avid horse breeder and the daughter of the DuPont Co.’s founder. Its property borders Morven Park, the estate of former Virginia governor Westmoreland Davis. The center is one of two hospitals of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. pszabo@loudounnow.com

<< FROM 3 In continuing its advancement in modern equine medicine, the center welcomed Erskine as its director in 2013. He is the 2017 recipient of the Jean Ellen Shehan Professor and Directorship endowment, an award he received in part for leading the center toward implementing a three-year strategic plan that contains initiatives and services to help better care for horses. Erskine said the equine community, in general, has made many medical breakthroughs in the past 10 years. In that time, the center has kept pace with new technology to help with diagnoses and treatments, including ultrasound, radiology, nuclear imaging and MRI equipment. Donors provided the center with a $400,000 CT scanning machine, which is one meter—slightly more than 3 feet—in diameter and can generate a 360-degree image in about a minute. “It can accept quite a bit of the horse into it,” Erskine said. “It’s a very highend diagnostic tool.” Jeanne Lindamood, a Purcellville resident and owner of a 17-year-old horse named Majestic Valley, has seen the benefits of the CT scanner. When she took her horse to the center for treatment of a broken jaw earlier this year, the scanner was put to use. “It was amazing what they could see with that new piece of equipment as opposed to an older X-ray machine,” she said. “I never doubted that he was just in the best hands.” Last summer, a full-time farrier also

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

Equine Center

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Enjoy Special McAlister << FROM 3 Fall Afternoon Teas several town policies. In a statement Oatlands Historic House & Gardens Autumn Afternoon Tea Sunday, November 12 Pilgrim Afternoon Tea Saturday, November 18

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Thanksgiving Afternoon Tea Sunday, November 19 Autumn Afternoon Tea Saturday, November 25 Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea Sunday, November 26

Afternoon Tea is served from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Advanced reservations are required: 703-777-3174 or visit www.oatlands.org/afternoontea 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane Leesburg, VA

Friday, Vanegas provided some details of McAlister’s alleged offenses, all of which were “substantiated” during the investigation. Those were acting outside of the scope as chief of police; selective enforcement; violation of General Orders concerning internal affairs investigations; violation of General Orders; employee intimidation; untruthfulness; and violation of town and police procedural policies. Mayor Kwasi Fraser said seven members of the police department had filed formal complaints against McAlister. “One of the highest priorities for the Town Council, and for myself as mayor, is to ensure that Purcellville’s officers and citizens can trust that our police leadership is being completely transparent,” he said. “Our response to the briefing by [Vanegas] can lead to reform and to rebuild community-police trust.” “Looking ahead, rather than focus on how the previous management failed, our citizens deserve better,” he said. Fraser said the town would create an Office of Police Accountability to review citizen complaints and ensure full and fair accountability within the police department. The office will be made up of town staff, residents and

business representatives. Fraser also said a Community Policing Plan would be put in place, which would assign town police officers to communities and require them to attend HOA meetings to better get involved in the community. “This will help build relationships … ensuring your community has a voice,” he said. Fraser urged the police officers present Nov. 1 to speak up if they have concerns in the future. “Please let your voices be heard if there’s anything wrong,” he said. McAlister was hired in May 2015. The veteran Fairfax County Police officer was selected from among 54 applicants for the post. She replaced Darryl C. Smith, who retired after 10 years leading the department. McAlister was the unanimous choice of the 11-member community interview panel made up of Town Council members, residents, business owners, management staff and members of the law enforcement community. McAlister was not present at last week’s council meeting. Efforts to reach her for comment have been unsuccessful. Lt. Joe Schroeck has been serving as the acting chief of police and will continue in that role. Vanegas said Schroek would remain there, “until such time as a permanent chief can be appointed.” pszabo@loudounnow.com

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Senior Maintenance Technician The Town of Purcellville has an immediate opening for a Senior Maintenance Technician at the Basham Simms Wastewater Facility. This position is responsible for the overall maintenance of the Wastewater department facilities to include the wastewater distribution system, maintenance of electrical, plumbing and mechanical equipment, procurement of outside contractors, purchasing of supplies and replacement parts, as well as routine building maintenance. High school diploma or GED, trade school education a plus, 5 years related experience in utilities or commercial maintenance work environment. General knowledge in the use of common hand and power tools. This is heavy work requiring the exertion of 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Requires the ability to perform manual physical work in various weather conditions. Must have a valid Virginia driver’s license; backflow prevention certification or the ability to obtain required certifications within one year. Hiring range is $45,508-$61,000 – DOQ (Salary Range: $45,508-$76,000). The Town offers an excellent benefits package including medical insurance, VRS retirement, fully-paid life insurance, deferred compensation, supplemental benefit plans, paid time off and 13+ holidays a year. Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Town of Purcellville is an award-winning, thriving community whose 9,000+ residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life that has become a hallmark of the town. If you are interested in employment with Town of Purcellville, complete and submit an application and resume at our website www.purcellvilleva.gov/jobs. Applications will be accepted until close of business on November 30, 2017. Equal Opportunity Employer.

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The Loudoun County Department of Family Services is accepting proposals from the owners of rental property to contract with the County for ProjectBased Vouchers (PBV). Successful proposals must provide fully accessible and 504 compliant housing units; and/ or studio units; and/or 1 bedroom units. Proposals will be evaluated based on owner experience and capability to manage or build rental housing as identified in the proposal on a first-come, first-served basis. DFS reserves the right to not award PBV. For more information about the application procedures and proposal review process are online at www.loudoun.gov/pbv or by contacting Antwaun Jackson at 703-737-8213 or Antwaun.Jackson@loudoun.gov.

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[ OPINION ]

loudounnow.com

Common Goals Voters imposed a seismic shift in Virginia’s political landscape Tuesday, one unlikely to be reversed no matter which of the myriad causes one chooses to credit or blame. Among those were the Trump effect, the commonwealth’s changing demographics, frustration with politics in Washington, and disappointment with the counter-productive partisan battles in

Richmond’s Capitol Square. Take your pick, but it’s clear in the post-election dawn that the window is closing on the Republican’s 18-year dominance in the General Assembly. The upside is that a more evenly divided House increases expectations that the parties will work together to solve the real campaigns have been, there are clear common goals of jobs creation, providing good schools and adequate roads, improving public safety,

Disgusted

and stabilizing the health care markets.

Editor: On Oct. 30, some Leesburg residents were greeted with literature left on their lawns, promoting the white supremacist agenda of the Ku Klux Klan. The Leesburg police are investigating the incidents, but as of now it looks like this flyer is protected under the First Amendment to our constitution, which protects free speech. I am disgusted and ashamed that someone would think that Leesburg is a place that would welcome any thoughts of white supremacy. Leesburg is a town that is welcoming to all law-abiding people. I am very proud and excited that Leesburg’s population is diverse and varied. It is a one of our strengths. While the flyer was not overtly threatening and did not call directly for violence, the history of bigotry, brutality, cruelty and bloodshed of the Klan is threatening to AfricanAmericans, Jews, gays and other groups. Many people are feeling scared that America and Leesburg are not like they used to be. I hope we are not returning to what it used to be. I remember growing up in a Virginia that had “whites only” signs on water fountains, segregated schools and laws preventing white and black people from marrying each other. Going back to that kind of thinking is not an option despite what the Klan may want. Most Leesburg residents want a peaceful, united society that does not judge people on the color of their skin but on the quality of their character. It is sad that today anyone would promote segregation, white supremacy or any other viewpoint that would divide us rather than unite us! As mayor of Leesburg, I want to assure the residents that the police will do all they can within the law of the land to make sure people are safe and that the council will continue to work toward making Leesburg a place we all are proud to call home.

It is important for Democrats to keep their focus on those issues. Just as Republicans squandered much of their time in power seeking legislatively to impose their views of social conservatism, Democrats can be distracted from their core duties by pressing a social agenda rooted in the opposite extremes. Neither party will succeed if their time and energy is spent promoting, or obstructing, these pendulum swings. Success will come when the General Assembly is recognized for its efforts to attract and support business, create a safe environment for families, promote top-flight schools and maintain the infrastructure that holds it all together. Remember that Virginia General Assembly? Yes, it has been a while.

Correction Last week’s article on the Salute to Military, Veterans & Families event included an incorrect photo caption. The photo showed Sgt. Charlie, a bullmastiff who is certified as a therapy dog and serves as the morale mascot of the Virginia Army National Guard unit in Leesburg. Loudoun Now regrets the error.

LoudounNow Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC 15 N. King St., Suite 101 • Leesburg, VA, 20176 PO Box 207 • Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723 Norman K. Styer Editor nstyer@loudounnow.com Danielle Nadler Managing Editor dnadler@loudounnow.com

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

[ LETTERS ]

problems facing the commonwealth. As divisive as this year’s

Margaret Morton Senior Writer mmorton@loudounnow.com

Renss Greene, Reporter rgreene@loudounnow.com Kara C. Rodriguez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Douglas Graham, Photographer dgraham@loudounnow.com Contributors Samantha Bartram John McNeilly Jan Mercker Patrick Szabo

Advertising Director Susan Styer sstyer@loudounnow.com Display Advertising Tonya Harding tharding@loudounnow.com Allison Jenkins ajenkins@loudounnow.com Production Electronic Ink Leesburg, VA 20175

— Mayor Kelly Burk, Leesburg

Widen Rt. 15? Oh, Please Editor: I have lived in Loudoun County for 44 years. I worked in DC for most of those years; I have commuted by every

means known, and it is not easy. The price you pay. People are talking about widening Rt. 15 north of Leesburg as if that will solve a problem. Ask first, before spending millions upon millions of tax dollars before this happens. Unless and until Maryland agrees to put a new or expanded bridge at Point of Rocks or elsewhere (no interest there) and widen Rt. 15 on the Maryland side to Rt. 340, all you do is push the bottleneck a few miles north. And who benefits? Frederick County, MD, commuters? Truckers trying to avoid the scales on I-81? It’s just silly and stupid and a waste of my and your money. As the line from “Field of Dreams” states: “If you build it, they will come.” That is to say, if you do what is proposed then more and more houses will be built on Rt. 15 and then what? How about eight lanes for Rt. 15? And that doesn’t take into account the damage done to historic properties and one of the ever-shrinking scenic byways in Virginia. It makes no sense. — Edward J. Kiley, Leesburg

Already Paying Editor: I was very upset to find our small, part-time family business as an Airbnb host implicitly characterized as part of a problem in lost tax revenue. We are proud to be not only Airbnb SuperHosts but also tax-paying members of our greater Hillsboro community. We are registered with the county and state, using the simple mechanism of a county fictitious name filing and setting up to pay taxes with the state. Our listing discloses that we collect the occupancy tax as part of the total price. A very simple spreadsheet calculation breaks out the gross rent and tax from the total, and a quick visit to Virginia iFile once a quarter allows us to file and remit our taxes. Creating a complicated and costly registry feels like a solution in search of a problem. That said, we’re not opposed to Airbnb calculating and remitting the taxes; that would save me a little bit of “paperwork.” — Peter Thomas, Hillsboro LETTERS >> 45

[ LETTERS ]

45 Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

<< FROM 44

Voucherize Schools

If that’s you, contact Susan Styer at 703-770-9723 or sstyer@loudounnow.com

BY ROGER VANCE

t was with great fanfare and promise that the Envision Loudoun initiative was launched last year as a vehicle to involve a wide range of citizens in the process of formulating a clear, shared vision of the county’s future as reflected in a new Comprehensive Plan. In an Envision update and preliminary report presented to the Board of Supervisors in October, a pair of recommendations has shaken confidence in the process and the vision emerging from it. Driven by a Board of Supervisors-appointed Stakeholders Committee and under the auspices of the Department of Planning and Zoning staff, the Envision Loudoun effort was to craft a process that would vet and research the issues, set the agenda for citizen participation and give due consideration of that input when preparing recommendations on policy revisions. The Stakeholder recommendations are now being drafted; to be followed by a third round of public outreach and final plan recommendations to come over the winter. The final plans are expected in the spring and Board of Supervisors’ approval is targeted for next November, which will result in a new plan to replace the current Revised General Plan, adopted in 2001. In the superheated economy that is today’s Loudoun— on the cusp of even greater dynamic growth as Metrorail sets the stage for a tech-industry infused urban corridor—the stakes couldn’t be higher. The deliberations playing out in the next 12 months will be watched closely by businesses, developers and investors from within and from far beyond the county’s borders. Likewise, the stakes cannot be higher for those who have lived their lives here—some families for generations—and all who have invested in and strengthened the community, seeking to not only build a robust economy but to also preserve the rural and historic qualities that deliver immeasurable value in the Loudoun mosaic. A key element of the current Revised General Plan, which essentially divides county planning policy areas into the eastern suburban growth area and the western rural area, is the buffer between the two, known as the Transition Policy Area. Rather than a hard edge, this transition zone is intended to serve as a visual and spatial transition between the suburban development in the eastern part of the County and rural development in the west. The TPA critical to maintaining the rural/suburban (and now urban) balance that gives Loudoun its unparalleled qualities of cutting-edge opportunity in close proximity to rural and agricultural open spaces, historic districts and unspoiled natural environments. The Transition Policy Area’s 22,813 acres extends over an L-shaped configuration along the western and southern boundaries of the Suburban Policy Area, comprising about 7 percent of Loudoun’s 333,558 acres. According to a September Stakeholders Committee “Transition Policy Area White Paper,” “this area has experienced significant development pressure as the suburban policy area is nearing build-out and utilities and improved roadways are being built nearby. These areas will continue to see development pressures and conflicts with the current Plan based on trends.” In the TPA’s 16,600 acres, there are approximately 5,600 residential units today, along with parks, schools

and commercial development. Some 6,000 acres remain available for development and, under current policy and zoning, there is the potential for up to 5,700 additional units. In the planning staff/stakeholder October presentation to the Board of Supervisors, it was acknowledged that Envision Loudoun public input participants “expressed significant support for the current TPA policies and land use pattern. … Comments saw increased development in the TPA as a threat to the rural area … preservation of substantial open space, protecting the environmental resources and preserving the perceived rural character seem to be the most important tools implementing the Transition Policy Area.” Juxtaposed to these sentiments, the presentation noted: “Members of the Stakeholders Committee generally felt that development in the TPA could relieve development pressure in the rural area. … Comments also suggested that several rural areas adjacent to Evergreen Mills Road and the Greenway would be more appropriately designated TPA.” Three “preliminary” planning recommendations for growth in residential units, industrial space and retail space, were presented the Board of Supervisors in October. Reflecting the predominant public sentiment expressed during the Envision process was the “Status Quo” policy recommendation, which calls for an additional 2,800 residential units. The Planning staff ’s “Strategic Changes” recommendation results in 12,000 additional residential units. The Stakeholders Committee recommendation would allow 18,300 additional residential units. Some members of the Stakeholders Committee have cited the need for affordable workforce housing and a desire to relieve pressure for increased residential development in the rural area as reasons for the dramatic increase in the TPA. And, there likely are sound rationales for limited expansion within the TPA of the residential development levels beyond the “Status Quo” formula, including innovative higher density “rural village” models that would encourage more affordable housing and maximize open space. However, the gulf between the current TPA and the planning staff ’s “Strategic Changes” scenario of more than doubling the existing residential units—and the even more enormous increase recommended by the Stakeholders Committee itself—is alarming. Either scenario will render the Transition Policy Area unconnected to its purpose and pose a direct threat to the Rural Policy Area. The prescription for correcting this apparent impairment of vision is for increased vigilance on the part of citizens and ongoing communications with supervisors and Stakeholder Committee members. The stakes are indeed high. It is our responsibility to get this right. Roger Vance is the mayor of Hillsboro. His column, A View from the Gap, appears monthly in Loudoun Now.

loudounnow.com

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Editor: In 1982, it cost $1/minute to call from the United States to Europe—$2.40 in today’s money. In 2017, it is about 20 cents or free if you skype. How come? Did the government make it possible? Ha-ha. Competition doing its magic. Back then it was one company only and they operated in their comfort zone—why innovate if they were protected from competition? Loudoun County public schools are no different; they are very expensive because they are run under the structure of government monopoly and negative “incentives”—and produce crappy scores. These schools should be voucherized and put parents and students in charge; it will stop the whole system from “walking dead.” Competition for students, actual recognition of teaching talents, getting rid of dead wood and stopping its demoralizing impacts would work like a miracle. Even if same results, schools would be much cheaper. Local government would set standards but not run—governments are terrible at running anything (Washington Metro anyone?). Having “public schools” makes as much sense as having “public church” in Loudoun County. Why is this complicated to understand? — Matt Chwalowski, Leesburg

Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

loudounnow.com

[ POLITICS ]

Maddox Wins Leesburg Council Seat BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ Vanessa Maddox beat Joshua Thiel in Tuesday’s race to win a seat on the Town Council. She will serve the remaining 12-and-a-half months of Kelly Burk’s council term after her election to the mayor’s seat last November. Maddox topped Thiel with 47.24 percent of vote to 44.38 percent, at a margin of 356 votes. She won in seven out of the 11 town precincts, with the Dry Mill precinct coming in at a tie, according to unofficial results. It was the first run for public office for both candidates. “It’s very surreal,” Maddox said of the victory immediately after results were announced. “I’m so happy right now.” A 13-year town resident, Maddox formerly served on both the town’s Economic Development Commission and Technology and Communications

Commission. Professionally, she works full time for an IT company based in Herndon along with running her own consulting business. She was applauded by throngs of supporters and Loudoun County Democratic Committee volunteers who cheered in the jovial atmosphere of The Tasting Room at Palio in downtown Leesburg. Maddox credited those who surrounded her at Palio’s, plus many others who worked behind the scenes, for her victory on Tuesday. “Even when I was tired ... they kept me going,” she said. “I’m so proud of Leesburg.” It was a much more somber atmosphere at nearby Dog Money Restaurant, where a large contingent of Loudoun County Republic Committee members watched the returns come in Tuesday. It was there that Thiel thanked his supporters, and also made sure to recognize Del. Randy Minchew

(R-10), leading two rounds of applause for him. Minchew was also defeated on Tuesday. “This is my hometown, it will always be my hometown, and I will always love Leesburg. I will always love the Commonwealth of Virginia, and I will always look to improve it any way I possibly can,” Thiel said in his remarks Tuesday. The sting of defeat was palpable when the results showed a victory for his opponent. “It’s a hard hit. I gave it my heart and my everything. It’s just not the results I was looking for,” he said. “My hometown, I thought would vote with their hearts and not with the party, but I think they picked the party, unfortunately.” Still a member of the town’s Economic Development Commission, Thiel said he plans to stay involved with both town activities and the

greater community. “Nothing’s really going to change in the sense of me giving back to the town. I just thought this would be the next step of giving back to the town,” he said. Maddox is expected to be sworn in before week’s end, but there will be a formal ceremony at Town Hall at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13, prior to the council’s regularly scheduled meeting at 7 p.m. She said she is looking forward to “getting in there and learning, and being a part of history.” Maddox won’t have much time to pack away her campaign signs, as the seat will be back on the ballot next November for a full four-year term. She may have some familiar company. Thiel said Tuesday he has not ruled out another run, but will take some time to consider his next steps. The seats of Councilman Marty Martinez and Vice Mayor Suzanne Fox will also be on the ballot next November, along with a new two-year mayoral term. krodriguez@loudounnow.com

Voters Approve $97.4M in Bonds Voters gave the green light to the county and schools to take on $97,421,000 in debt for building projects and firefighting equipment. Close to $82 million of those bonds will allow the school system to pay for renovations to C.S. Monroe Technology Center/Douglass School, installing synthetic turf and track resurfacing at high schools, safety improvements at 60 schools, and buying and replacing school buses. The School Board can also use those bonds to pay for other school projects. About 74 percent of Loudoun voters approved of the school bonds. With close to 72 percent of county voters in favor, the county will also issue more than $15.6 million in general obligation bonds to finance the replacement of the Round Hill Fire Station, along with other public safety facilities in the county’s Capital Improvement Program.

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Del. Randy Minchew (R-10) greets Fraternal Order of Police past president Ian Griffiths at Dog Money Restaurant & Brewery as results come in showing him losing the race.

Federal Tax Reform Bill Met with Skepticism Locally BY RENSS GREENE The tax reform introduced Thursday by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives has been met with skepticism by local business and nonprofit leaders. Two days before it was released, the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce issued a statement calling on Congress to reform the federal tax code. “It has been 31 years since Congress last reformed the tax code,” the Chamber wrote. “Since then, the code has become an anchor weighing down the economy, job creation, and wage growth for American families.” It wrote that Congress has a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to fix the problem. But the day after the 429-page “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” was released, and

as reporters and organizations continue to dig through the bill, Chamber President and CEO Tony Howard said it could hurt small businesses and nonprofits. The bill has been criticized for giving large tax breaks to large corporations and the country’s wealthiest people, while giving smaller or no cuts for low- and middle-income people and passing over some small businesses. “I’m concerned that there’s not enough for small businesses,” Howard said. “At least based on the media reporting I’m seeing, it actually creates some negative scenarios.” It also appears the tax bill could negatively impact charitable giving by limiting deductions—such as for donating to charity. “You have now disincentivized folks to make charitable contributions on a tax basis,” Howard said. “Now, I

know the old saying that real charity doesn’t care if it’s tax deductible, but let’s not be foolish about it.” He said charities are “a big part of the fabric of the social safety net in our country.” That was troubling news to Amy Owen, executive director of the nonprofit Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties. “When we work with individuals who are interested in making a gift, one of the first questions that people always want affirmed is, is this tax deductible,” Owens said. She added that is not their first motivation for giving, but “to have that acknowledgement to maintain that culture of giving though our system is a really strong reinforcement for donors.” Howard said the bill as written has dim prospects for passage, pointing to negative comments from the National

Federation of Independent Businesses, and lukewarm reception from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “If the majorities in the House and Senate as well as the executive branch are seeking to bet a bill like this through, and they don’t have the full support of an ally like the U.S. Chamber in that, I really question how they get the bill through,” Howard said. But the need for tax reform, he said, is real. “I would say that, quite candidly, there’s no doubt that the tax code needs to be simplified,” Howard said. “It needs to be made easier to understand, it needs to be done in a way that encourages economic activity that not only provides job and entrepreneurial opportunities for American citizens, but also will lead to additional tax revenues down the road.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

[OBITUARY]

47 Nov. 9 – 15, 2017

June 11, 1921 - November 8, 2016

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Democrats, including County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall, celebrated at The Tasting Room at Palio as the election fell in their favor.

<< FROM 1

Survived by daughters, son-in-laws and daughter-in-laws, Bettie Pell of Warrenton, VA, Gene (Babe) & James Waddell of Nokesville, VA, Susan & Richard Andrews of Grand Junction, CO and Dorothy Chandler of Catlett, VA.

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Democrat Tia Walbridge talks with friends and constituencies during an election night watch party after finding out she had lost the race for Virginia’s 33rd District. Del. Dave LaRock was the only Loudoun Republican to hold on to his seat.

percent of the vote in one of the state’s most hard-fought districts. With his party at the helm, he’s hopeful he’ll see progress on the issues he campaigned on. “Like making sure every time someone is sick, they can go to the doctor and not worry about paying rent or feeding their family, preventing the all-too-often gun violence, and ensuring equal pay for equal work,” he said. “These are issues we need to work on, and—majority or not—I hope we can all come together in a bipartisan way to do what’s best for our country and what’s best for our state.” First-term Democratic delegate Kathleen Murphy handily warded off a challenge from Republican Cheryl A. Buford in the 34th District, carrying 61 percent of the votes. Murphy first won the seat in 2015 when she narrowly beat Republican Craig Parisot by 188. Two years before that, in her first run for the 34th District, Murphy challenged then-delegate Barbara Comstock and lost by 422 votes. First-term incumbent Jennifer B. Boysko (D-86) trounced Republican challenger Linda Schulz, winning 17,213 votes to Schulz’s 7,697. That gave her nearly 69 percent of the vote.

She completed her high school education at age 16 wanting to pursue a career in agriculture. She instead became a bookkeeper/accountant, something she really didn’t enjoy. During WWII she tested metal strength for airplanes at Glenn L. Martin (currently Lockheed-Martin). After marriage she put her administrative and accounting skills to use at the Arnold Bus Company, Northern VA Sun Newspaper, Gordon Builders, Vienna Vet. Clinic and was also a real estate agent at Dove Realty. Her favorite job in later years was working for Thomas Balch Genealogy Library in Leesburg, VA as a research librarian. While in Philomont she cared for her varies animals as well as boarded horses. She was also active in the Roszell United Methodist Church. Living in Nokesville, VA for the past 10 years she cared for her dog and cats, feral cats and was still driving up to the age of 94. She was an avid reader of civil war, history and mystery books, checking out 6-7 at a time from the Nokesville Library. She had a sharp mind and kept up with all current events until her death of natural causes. A memorial plaque has been placed on a bench at VA Beach, one of her favorite places to visit.

loudounnow.com

Loudoun voters asked another longtime Republican to step down Tuesday. LeMunyon has held the 67th House District seat since 2010, but lost to Delaney by more than 4,000 votes. Delaney was a registered Republican in Florida before moving to Virginia. She said she wants to work with Republicans, Independents and Democrats. Loudoun’s only holdout Republican was LaRock in the 33rd District, who fought off a challenge from Democrat Tia Walbridge. LaRock won by 2,951 votes, winning nearly 55 percent of his district’s vote. He said he was surprised to be the only Loudoun Republican delegate to win the night. “Some of the most productive and hard-working members of the House will be back to their day jobs full time,” LaRock said. “I can’t imagine that the people of Virginia appreciate the quality of the men who are not going to be going to work for them down in Richmond. These are men whose contributions are enormous. It’s a sad day for the people that they serve.” In an interview late Tuesday, Democrat Bell said it was hard to believe he may now be in evenly-split House. He fought off a challenge from Republican newcomer Subba Kolla, taking 62

Grandmother to Diane Pell of Manassas, VA, James & Tamara Pell of Bristow, VA, Robert Pell of Front Royal, VA and the late Kevin Pell, Steve & Laurel Waddell and Jack & Dorothy Waddell of Suffolk, VA. Great Grandmother to Rebeca Pell of CA, Ava & Sara Pell of Bristow, VA, Taylor Waddell of VA Beach and Anna Waddell of Suffolk, VA. Irene was most proud of her children, grandchildren and great grand-children.

on to his seat. But if Donald Trump won, “I will be in for a dog fight.” That’s what he had this election cycle. Greason, who has won by comfortable margins since 2009, saw Clinton win in his district by 19 percent. Many of those same voters backed Reid on Tuesday. Reid won with 53 percent of the vote. The results are a referendum on “what’s happening in Washington,” he said, referring to Trump’s divisive first year in office. “I’m not sure this was about David Reid or Tag Greason. I think this was about voters wanting to send a message to Washington.” “I think the world has changed this year,” said Gooditis, who defeated three-term incumbent Minchew with 52 percent of the vote. “The U.S.—including Virginia including this district—is ready for change to a kinder, more caring culture, a more caring political culture.” Her win delivered one of the biggest upsets of the night. She unseated Minchew by 1,137 votes. Speaking to a restaurant full of Democrats as the results came in, Gooditis said she ran in part because her brother did not get the health care that he needed—and died only two weeks after she declared her candidacy. “We’ve done this and we’ve put the energy and mileage and the dollars into this, because we know it matters,” Gooditis said. Minchew, for his part, said he is proud of his six years in office as a self-described moderate and will continue to be active in Leesburg. He said “this was a wave year, and there’s probably no way that my record would have been able to overcome what was truly a wave year.” He said the Democratic surge is likely at least in part a response to Trump. But in defeat he resisted the urge some other Republicans have felt to move to the right. “I will tell you that I do not believe that the solution is rebranding the Republican Party to be more like Corey Stewart,” Minchew said. “That’s not the solution.”

Sea of blue

In memory of our Mom, Irene Moore, age 95, born in Baltimore, MD to the late Thomas and Katherine Helgers Forsyth. She spent her childhood with her two sisters Jean and Mary Catherine who both predeceased her. She was married to the late Eugene W. Moore.

LOUDOUN NOW | NEWS |

Irene Elizabeth Forsyth Moore

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