Loudoun Now for Dec. 20, 2018 by Loudoun Now

LoudounNow LOUDOUN COUNTY’S COMMUNITY-OWNED NEWS SOURCE

[ Vol. 4, No. 5 ]

[ loudounnow.com ]

[ December 20, 2018 ]

10 Former slave cemetery’s future uncertain

Time to give

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

A volunteer with The Salvation Army sorts toys during the charity’s recent Angel Tree Distribution event. Thanks to volunteers and donors generous with their time and resources, local organizations like The Salvation Army and Toys for Tots, will deliver gifts to thousands of Loudoun County children this holiday season. (See story on page 30).

Drug Court: Treatment Over Jail Time BY RENSS GREENE The Board of Supervisors’ finance committee last week signed off on plans to start the wheels turning as soon as January on reestablishing a drug court program in Loudoun. The program is designed to give some drug offenders a chance to avoid jail time by going instead to an intensive outpatient treatment program. Offenders would be under intensive supervision and mandatory treatment, and if they fell off the wagon, they could wind up back in jail.

The committee recommended spending $372,000 to start the drug court with room in the program for up to 25 participants. That is supplemented by a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to help cover the program’s startup costs and first four years of operation. It will also mean hiring five new positions spread across the Department of Community Corrections, the Sheriff ’s Office, and the Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services, along with paying some overtime in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court.

Those people will work circuit court judges, who have also been supportive of the new program—and instrumental in setting it up. Circuit Court Judges Douglas L. Fleming Jr. and Stephen Sincavage were part of the Drug Court Advisory Committee county supervisors established in February to look into launching the program. They also told supervisors their bench can support up to 25 people in the program. Commonwealth’s Attorney Jim Plowman said the drug court can start as soon as the county can hire the people it needs and find space on the judges’ dockets,

which are already booked up to March. But he and Director of Community Corrections Jim Freeman said they are still planning to launch early in 2019, possibly even before a fourth Loudoun Circuit Court judge takes a seat on the bench. The county ran a drug court from 2004 to 2012, but the program was dismantled after supervisors decided they weren’t getting their money’s worth, even as those voting to close the program supported it in concept. DRUG COURT >> 42

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Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Commonwealth’s Attorney Jim Plowman, left, introduced Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Sean Morgan as a qualified candidate for the judgeship at a public hearing with state lawmakers Monday, Dec. 17.

Local Lawyers Push Back on State’s Judgeship Fast Track BY RENSS GREENE Loudoun’s legal community is pushing state lawmakers on the apparent fast-tracking of a candidate to fill an empty seat on the circuit court bench, going around the usual review and recommendations by the Loudoun Bar Association. As Loudoun moves closer to filling its long-sought-after fourth seat on the Loudoun Circuit Court, attorneys and state legislators are scrambling to determine who will take the seat. Five Loudoun attorneys have gone to the Loudoun Bar seeking its endorsement: Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Sean Morgan; Lorrie Sinclair and Matthew Snow, who are part-

ners in the same Leesburg law firm; Leesburg attorney Danell Palladine; and Kristin Quirk, an associate at Whitbeck Cisneros McElroy. Morgan and Sinclair were among the candidates considered for the seat two years ago. But the members of the General Assembly’s Courts of Justice Committees seem to have someone else in mind already. Fauquier County Commonwealth’ Attorney James P. Fisher did not meet with the Loudoun Bar, instead proceeding directly to become the first and only candidate to appear before a joint session of the House and Senate Courts of Justice Committees, which will determine which candidates are

qualified to be appointed to judgeships during the upcoming session. Fauquier Now reported the hearing was three minutes long, and Fisher faced no questions. No Loudoun representatives serve on either the House or Senate Courts of Justice committees. Fisher served as deputy commonwealth’s attorney in Loudoun before being appointed to Fauquier’s top prosecutor post in 2011 and then elected to a full term in 2015. His term expires in 2019. During a public hearing with Loudoun’s state lawmakers on Monday, Loudoun’s legal community

As county supervisors approach what is expected to be the most difficult county budget of their term, some are questioning the scale of funding increase the school system that has been assumed for years. During the past three decades, county boards of supervisors have generally split new revenue growth 34-66—one third of the increase allocated to the county government, and two-thirds for the schools. But as the county struggles to find money to catch up on long-neglected salaries and staffing, some supervisors are wondering if that long-standing—but unofficial— practice still makes sense. While the school system continues to add thousands of students each year,

enrollment growth is slowing. “Given the current needs today, the percentage should actually be a little higher for the county, and a little less for the schools right, and that could change in the future as things change again,” said Board Vice Chairman Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn), during a discussion at the board’s finance committee meeting last week. “Sometimes things need to be broken, and I’m not sure that this is a good practice other than for budgeting convenience. It’s definitely not based on needs.” County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) agreed. “To say that this is written in stone no matter what is happening in the schools … that’s probably not logical.” However, she pointed out that the expected tight county budget this year will affect the

Redskins player charged with assault

Intelligence museum gets a boost

JUDGES >> 42

Supervisors Wonder if Schools’ Share of Budget Revenue Growth Should Be Cut BY RENSS GREENE

Schools debate seclusion practice

school system’s budget request, too. “I can only vote on what we know right now, and what we know right now is at the equalized rate, the shortfall to the schools would be between $18 and $20 million,” Randall said. “I can’t support that.” The finance committee reaffirmed its guidance on writing of next year’s budget, directing County Administrator Tim Hemstreet to draft a budget at the equalized tax rate—the rate at which the average homeowner pays the same dollar amount in real estate tax, despite changing property values—and options to cut or add to the budget by 2 cents on the tax rate. This year, county budget officers estimate each penny on the real estate SCHOOLS BUDGET >> 42

INDEX Loudoun Gov.......................... 4 Leesburg.............................. 10 Education............................. 14 Politics................................ 17 Public Safety........................ 18 Nonprofit.............................. 20 Biz....................................... 24 Our Towns............................ 26 LoCo Living.......................... 30 Public and Legal Notices...... 34 Obituaries............................ 35 Help Wanted......................... 36 Resource Directory............... 38 Opinion................................ 40

Lawmaker: airline tax could lower tolls

[ LOUDOUN GOV ]

[ BRIEFS ] Loudoun Gets Clean Audit

December 20, 2018

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

The sun sets over the terminal at Dulles International Airport in eastern Loudoun County.

Prince William Delegate Proposes Tax on United Airlines to Lower Toll Road Fares BY RENSS GREENE State Delegate Elizabeth Guzmán (D-31) last week announced a bill that would increase the fuel tax paid by United Airlines to lower the toll on the Dulles Toll Road, which largely funds the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority’s work to extend the Silver Line. Opponents have already dismissed the bill as part of a pressure campaign by the labor union Unite Here in an unrelated dispute with United Airlines, the only major airline with a hub operation at Dulles Airport. MWAA recently announced tolls would go up on the toll road in January. They will increase from the cur-

rent $2.50 to $3.25 at the main toll plaza, and from $1 to $1.50 on ramps, part of a deal worked out in 2006 when the authority took over the toll road and responsibility for constructing the Silver Line in the road’s median. Guzmán said her bill would reduce tolls on the Dulles Toll Road by about 22 cents, a revenue loss that would be offset by raising the tax on aviation fuel. Currently, the tax on jet fuel is 5 cents per gallon up to 100,000 gallons, and a half-cent on every gallon thereafter. Guzmán’s bill would raise that to 5 cents on every gallon for airlines that fly more than 8 billion passenger miles out of Virginia—meaning only United. Revenues from the tax on United would be funneled to the Silver Line

project and to reducing the Dulles Toll Road rate. If MWAA did not agree to that, the bill would prohibit the Department of Aviation from disbursing any revenue from taxes on aviation fuel to the authority. Guzmán said the additional ridership from the Silver Line would benefit the airline, and “United should be paying the tax that all Virginians pay.” “I made a promise to my constituents when I ran for office,” Guzmán said. “My promise was to fight increases and to fight any new tolls in Virginia, and that’s what I want to do. There is an opportunity right now, and we should AIRLINE TAX >> 6

Loudoun to Assemble Sewage Fertilizer Team BY RENSS GREENE Faced with limited power to address the concerns around treated sewage fertilizer on Loudoun farmland, the county finance committee has recommended a special team to make sure Loudouners know when that fertilizer is going to be used next door, and to make sure the state considers the special circumstances of each property when considering permits. Twice this year, supervisors took briefings from local and state officials on the use of treated sewage fertilizer, or biosolids, on farmland, which is regulated by the state Department of Environmental Quality. They found that the government’s authority is limited to a local monitoring program to report permit violations and complaints back up to the state, and in limited circumstances the county can regulate storage of biosolids. After biosolids were spread on a farm in Lucketts, the debate over the sewage

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Chuck Boyd displays a jar of treated sewage sludge fertilizer to the Board of Supervisors on Oct. 2. He said he collected the sample about 25 feet from his property.

fertilizer was renewed in Loudoun. It has come up before—in 2008, people living near Waterford said they had fallen ill because of biosolids spread in

their neighborhoods, and called for a ban. SEWAGE >> 7

Loudoun County government’s accounting practices have once more gotten a clean audit, earning an “unqualified” opinion from auditors Cherry Bekaert LLP, meaning the firm found no serious issues. “That is not something that happens all the time,” said Cherry Bekaert partner Rob Churchman. “It does here for Loudoun, but it’s not something that happens by accident. It’s due to dedication and long hard work by all the finance staff and personnel.” Among the few minor issues Churchman’s team turned up: one official completed a financial disclosure form too early. Jim Bonfils, who serves on the Loudoun Water board, dated his disclosure before the state-mandated filing period, which is technically not allowed. “I shouldn’t say ‘silly,’” Churchman said of the state rule.

Student Election Page Program Sees Record Year The Loudoun County Office of Elections and Voter Registration is celebrating a record-setting year for its Student Election Page program, with more students participating than ever before. More than 140 students from high schools across the county participated as pages and were assigned to county polling places for the November general election. Loudoun County offers high school students the opportunity to volunteer for a five-hour shift at a precinct on Election Day. Students attend a 30-minute training session, receive a free T-shirt to wear during their shift and are assigned to a precinct close to home. The students assist election officers with duties like making sure voters are at the correct location and reminding voters to have their photo IDs ready. “In addition to receiving a certificate and a chance to obtain credit for community service, the experience gives the students something extra to put on college or job applications,” stated Loudoun County Director of Elections and General Registrar Judy Brown. “This is an opportunity for our young people to have a front row seat to watch democracy in action. We strongly encourage our citizens to get involved and serve at a precinct.” Brown recently presented the 2018 Student Election Page Achievement Award to Heritage High School, which sent 34 student volunteers to the polls this year, the most of any school in the county. Principal Jeff Adam accepted the award at a ceremony JUMP TO >> 5

[ BRIEFS ] attended by the student volunteers, social science teachers and librarians.

Supervisors Cancel Some Holiday Season Meetings

County Offers Holiday Recycling Guidance According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, American house-

package, including plastic, fasteners such as twist ties and rubber bands, and Styrofoam should go in the trash. Cardboard boxes may be recycled only after all non-paper items such as Styrofoam, bubble wrap, and plastics are removed and discarded or recycled through alternative programs. Sending boxes filled with Stryrofoam and other contaminants for recycling reduces processing efficiency and devalues the cardboard as a commodity. Keep it clean. Curbside recycling service providers only want empty and relatively clean bottles, cans, jugs, jars, paper and cardboard. Lids may remain

on plastic bottles. If in doubt, leave it out until you are able to review guidelines available from your service provider. Recyclables should be dumped loosely into your curbside recycling bin and covered to prevent litter. Bagged recyclables are likely to be discarded as waste at recycling facilities. Additionally, plastic bags are not accepted for curbside recycling or at public recycling centers because they get tangled in the machinery at recycling facilities and cause significant down time to have the bags removed. This includes paper bags with a plastic liner and pet food bags as well.

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The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors has canceled the board’s second business meeting in December, which had been scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 20. The board’s next business meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 2. The Board of Supervisors meets in the Loudoun County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street SE in Leesburg. Board of Supervisors business meetings, public hearings, and standing committee meetings are televised on Comcast Government Channel 23, Open Band Channel 40, and Verizon FiOS Channel 40. The meetings also are available for viewing at www. loudoun.gov/webcast. Documents for Board of Supervisors meetings are posted in advance on the Loudoun County website and are available at www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments. More information about the Board of Supervisors is online at www. loudoun.gov/bos.

holds generate about 25 percent more waste than usual from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, over one million tons more per week. While it is important to recycle as much as possible, it is equally important to keep the waste out of recycling. Loudoun County recycling experts have some advice designed to help reduce that waste. Label your kitchen recycling bin with “Recycling Bottles and Cans Only.” This will help friends and family gathering for the holidays to keep trash out of the recycling, including paper plates, napkins, plastic plates and utensils, and food scraps—none of which are recyclable through local recycling programs. Placing labeled recycling bins near trash cans in other areas, such as a game room, deck and patio, will also help capture more bottles and cans. Recycle paper gift wrap, tissue paper, and greeting cards. Metallic, plastic, glittery or other non-paper wrapping and bows are not recyclable and should go in the trash. Keep ribbons, garland, wire and twine out of recycling because they will jam the sorting equipment at recycling facilities. Save reusable items for next year. Most of the packaging used for toys, dolls, batteries and tools is not recyclable. Only the paper or cardboard component is recyclable and must be separated from the plastic and other non-paper items. All other parts of the

December 20, 2018

<< FROM 4

December 20, 2018

Airline tax << FROM 4 all be helping to have this bill passed so we can provide a relief to commuters in Virginia.” But the bill’s early opponents say it is part of hospitality union Unite Here’s nationwide campaign to pressure United over a dispute about catering kitchen staff compensation. According to Unite Here, in October, the overwhelming majority of United’s 2,700 catering workers voted to join the union. There are no United catering kitchens in Virginia. “This legislation is nothing more than a political stunt orchestrated by a union seeking leverage on a completely unrelated issue targeting one of Loudoun’s top private employers, United Airlines,” said Loudoun County Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) in an emailed statement. “It is absolutely true that Northern Virginia drivers pay excessive tolls, and there are a myriad of constructive ways that these General Assembly members could assist in buying down tolls on the Dulles Toll Road if they wanted to. This is not one of them.” Letourneau said raising the cost of doing business for airlines in Virginia “threatens economic opportunities, jobs, and convenience for travelers,” and could mean United does less business at Dulles. Representatives of Unite Here, along with the American Federation of La-

Unite Here Local 23

Del. Elizabeth Guzmán announces her bill at Dulles International Airport on Dec. 12, backed by members of Unite Here.

bor and Congress of Industrial Organization or AFL-CIO and immigration legal services nonprofit CASA, took part in the announcement, holding up signs in favor of the bill at Dulles Airport outside the United Airlines ticketing counters. “Increasing tolls is another tax on working people in Northern Virginia,” said Doris Crouse-Mays, president of the Virginia AFL-CIO, in a press release. “Commuters and every other business along the Dulles Corridor are already paying their fair share for the Silver Line. United Airlines should too.” “They are always about trying to fight for the working class, and part of the working class are these commuters who are union members, and they have to travel through the Dulles Toll Road,” Guzmán said. “They are affected by the increase. I’m working with them.” A social worker by trade, she pointed out

she is the vice president of the American Federation of State and County Municipal Employees Local 3001. “United Airlines does not receive a special tax break and pays the same jet fuel tax as all other airlines that serve airports in the Commonwealth,” wrote United spokesperson Kimberly Gibbs in an emailed statement. She added the bill singles out one carrier. “This is illegal under both the Commerce and Equal Protection clauses of the U.S. Constitution.” MWAA and the state have made significant investments in Dulles over the past several years. This year, about $35 million in revenue was shifted from Reagan National Airport to Dulles, and in 2016, then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe won General Assembly approval to grant Dulles $50 million over two years to help reduce the passenger fees. The airports authority also sold 424 acres of undeveloped land around Dulles in September for $236.5 million, again moving money into the airport to lower the cost of doing business for airlines—and getting cheaper flights for passengers. Washington Airports Task Force President Keith Meurlin, a former Dulles Airport manager, said the bill risks reversing course on the state’s investment in Dulles, which is climbing out of the 2008 recession with growing passenger numbers and revenues. Guzmán, known nationally for delivering the Democratic Party’s Spanish-language response to President Donald J. Trump’s 2018 State of the Union address, has announced that

seven other delegates have agreed to co-sponsor it: Paul Krizek (D-44), Marcus Simon (D-53), Kaye Kory (D38), Lee Carter (D-50), Hala Ayala (D51), Alfonso Lopez (D-49), and Mark Levine (D-45). No district of any announced patron of the bill contains any part of the Dulles Toll Road. Their districts are generally south and east of the toll road, and include Falls Church and areas south including West Falls Church and Annandale; parts of Arlington and Alexandria; large portions of Prince William County including Manassas; and the 44th District along Virginia’s eastern border south of Alexandria on the Potomac River, including Fort Hunt and part of Mt. Vernon. Guzmán said she has not yet contacted delegates from Loudoun, but plans to. Delegate David A. Reid (D-32) and Karrie K. Delaney (D-67), who serve on the House Transportation Committee, have not returned requests for comment. “My commitment to my constituents is to fight any increase and to fight any new tolls, and that’s what I’m doing,” Guzmán said. “So, I know that this issue is very personal to many people in Northern Virginia, because we don’t have to talk about only the people who live in Loudoun County.” A representative of MWAA, which operates Dulles International and Reagan National airports and the Dulles Toll Road, declined to comment.. rgreene@loudounnow.com

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At a Board of Supervisors meeting in October, Neil Zahradka, the manager of the office of land applications programs in the state’s biosolids program, said the number of complaints around that Lucketts farm is unusual. Last year, he said, the state got 23 total complaints about biosolids across Virginia. “So, the fact that we got 18 complaints on this site in Lucketts is an anomaly,” Zahradka said at the time. County staff members looked into launching a state-reimbursed local monitoring program, but found that without the authority to enact restrictions tighter than the state, the program was unlikely to give Loudouners any additional protection. Instead, they recommended a technical team to notify neighbors when the state receives an application to spread biosolids, and to make sure the state considers the special conditions of the site when it deliberates that application. Supervisor Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn) said that team is “a much better approach.” “It’s proactive, it’s getting out in front of the permits, it’s notifying the neighbors that these permits are coming and they can weigh in up front,” Buona said. “And today we’re reactive. We’re reactive when someone comes in and says, ‘I have flow coming in from the

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December 20, 2018

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farm next door to me.’” Farmers are usually required to apply to the state to spread biosolids. According to state code, the county is notified of applications to spread biosolids and can offer recommendations as those applications are considered. The county is also supposed to be notified 100 days before biosolids are spread. The state Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission reported on biosolids in 2017, finding the health risk to neighbors is low, but may be higher for people living nearby during the time the fertilizer is being spread. At that time, the commission reported, some airborne particles can be inhaled and present a health risk. However, it found the state’s regulation is “generally effective.” According to the DEQ, in Virginia biosolids are most often used to fertilize hay, pasture, forests, and grain crops. They are restricted in vegetable crops to prevent food contamination, and livestock are not allowed to graze pastures fertilized with biosolids until at least 30 days after the application. Biosolids are tested for levels of some pathogens and hazardous substances before they can be used. The state reported in 2015 that biosolids had been used on about 65,000 acres in Virginia, less than 1 percent of Virginia’s farmland. Biosolids are also generally cheaper that commercial fertilizer.

December 20, 2018

Loudoun Supervisors Review Aircraft Tax Rates BY RENSS GREENE Members of the Board of Supervisors’ finance committee have heard that the county is foregoing as much as $15.4 million by levying minimal taxes on aircraft owners—assuming those aircraft stayed in Loudoun. Loudoun taxes aircraft as personal property at one cent per $100 of assessed value. Finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) asked for an overview of potential revenues if aircraft were taxed more like cars, for which owners must pay $4.20 per $100 of assessed value. Commissioner of the Revenue Robert S. Wertz found there are 446 aircraft whose owners have mailing addresses in Loudoun, and 299 taxable aircraft actually located in Loudoun, collectively assessed at $369 million. If those aircraft were taxed at half the rate of cars, the county government would bring in an estimated $7.8 million. If they were taxed at the same rate as cars, the county would bring in $15.5 million. The vast majority of those aircraft, 208, are located in Leesburg. But while about 70 percent of Loudoun’s aircraft are in Leesburg, they only make up about 17 percent of the total assessed value of aircraft in Loudoun—dwarfed by the 91 aircraft outside Leesburg, meaning mostly commercial aircraft at Dulles Airport. Those aircraft average almost $3.4 million in value apiece. Most of the aircraft at Dulles are exempt from local taxes as “vessels regularly engaged in interstate and foreign commerce …

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

A jet takes off from Leesburg Executive Airport.

temporarily located in a county” under state law. But Letourneau said he is not currently considering proposing taxing those aircraft. Supervisor Ralph M. Buona (R-Ashburn), a former Air Force pilot, pointed out a technical detail that complicates the tax revenue discussion: airplanes fly. “Aircraft can get up and go,” Buona said. “If the taxes are too high here, I’ll take them Prince William County, they’ll take them across the river, they’ll take them to Montgomery County, and it’s still very accessible to the owners of the aircraft.” He said it’s important to keep that tax

rate at a penny for the good of Leesburg Executive Airport. “I think the county is doing a real service for Leesburg in this regard, because there’s other revenues associated with that airport that probably wouldn’t be there for the town,” Buona said. “I hope the town sees the benefit of what we’ve done here for them.” Still, Letourneau said, if aircraft don’t leave the county in droves, raising taxes could be a net benefit to the county. “There have been airports that have changed this and raised the rate before” Letourneau said. “…The reason we haven’t is concern that the aircraft leave. But has that actually happened? And if

some aircraft have left, is at least the revenue made up by the fact that you’re now charging?” Aircraft owners don’t just have to consider property taxes when deciding where to park their aircraft. There are also varying prices for hangar rent, tiedown fees, landing fees, and fuel prices. Owners of large aircraft must also consider the length of a given airport’s runway. Wertz’s report cautions that considering the large number of airports near Loudoun County and their competitive fees, it is possible aircraft owners could relocate to avoid an increased tax rate. rgreene@loudounnow.com

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The Leesburg Town Council is likely to abandon plans to find an outside organization to maintain land it owns which includes a historic AfricanAmerican cemetery.

Council Looks to Chart New Future for Sycolin Cemetery BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ The Leesburg Town Council is expected to shelve plans to turn over the responsibility to maintain a long-ignored African-American cemetery on a town-owned tract to an outside group after the proposal came under sharp criticism last week. During the Dec. 11 Town Council meeting, representatives of the Loudoun Freedom Center and the NAACP criticized the town’s stewardship of the land and called for more town resources to be invested in the protection and restoration of the burial grounds. The property includes 55 unmarked graves that are affiliated with the Lower Sycolin African-American community and date back to the late 1800s. Council members had previously wrestled with how best to care for the land. The council had decided that in-

stead of creating a master plan for the site with stakeholder input, it should instead look for an outside group to maintain the land, at a lease rate of $1 per year. To that end, the town issued a Request for Proposals for a maintenance lease in November. During last week’s council meeting, Pastor Michelle C. Thomas of the Loudoun Freedom Center and outgoing Loudoun NAACP President Phillip Thompson issued harsh rebukes of the council and its decision to lease the land. Thomas pointed out that only three council members had toured the property and fewer had “engaged the African-American community” to discuss their desires for the property. Thomas called the terms proposed in the RFP a “sharecropper’s” deal that would put all the burden on the leasing organization but offered no long-

term benefit or assurance the group’s investment would be preserved. She also questioned why no public money was being offered to support the upkeep, comparing the proposed deal with the new lease the council was providing for the Loudoun Museum. That agreement, approved by the council Dec. 11, included town funds to assist with the maintenance of the town-owned buildings that house the museum. She called that a “sweetheart” deal. “You will have to agree that these are very similar to the sharecropping agreements during Jim Crow,” Thomas said. Thompson, who said he visited the cemetery for the first time earlier in the day, described the council’s actions as racist and claimed they violated a memorandum of understandCEMETARY >> 13

Rainy Weather Doesn’t Wash Out Santa’s Visit BY NORMAN K. STYER A winter rain storm grounded Santa’s helicopter Saturday morning, but he still made the trip to Leesburg— where families had lined up to meet him—thanks to a lift from the fire company. The visit was part of the second annual Santa Lands event at the Virginia Village shopping center. Reviving a decades-old holiday tradition, the plan was for Santa to arrive by helicopter and land in the parking lot before spending the day meeting with children and hearing their last-minute

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Christmas wishes. While the weather didn’t cooperate, Santa arrived on time to find families

lined up along the storefronts. Nearly 1,000 children had registered in advance for the event.

It was a fast year of public service for Councilwoman Vanessa Maddox who will serve her last meeting as a Town Council member this week. Maddox joined the council last November following a special election to fill Kelly Burk’s unexpired council term following her election to the mayor’s seat. Maddox re-election bid this November, however, was unsuccessful; she finished in fourth place in the race for three council seats. It was a quick turnaround from one campaign to the other, she noted, as the dawn of 2018 saw her jumpstart her re-election bid just six weeks after taking office for the first time. “I recommend no one ever attempt that again,” she said. “No one.” Looking back, she said it felt as though she was drinking directly from a fire hose when she began. “But as the days and weeks went on I started to pick up things slowly but surely. And then as soon as I got into a rhythm where I was comfortable it was time to run again,” she said. She cites her favorite moment as a council member when the Council Chambers were packed with residents protesting the Meadowbrook commercial development application. The hardest? When Council Chambers were also crowded with passionate citizens, but this time for the HHHunt memory care facility application, which she supported despite some neighborhood pleas to deny it. With her council career winding down, Maddox says she has some exciting things in the hopper. She expects her first book to be published next summer, about her life in politics from 11th grade on, and how that prompted her run for Town Council. She is also reprising her “Live from the Minivan” YouTube show, and all her guest slots are almost filled. She also hasn’t ruled out a future run for political office, BRIEFS >> 12

11 December 20, 2018

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to halt construction of the plant until a comprehensive study of environmental impacts to Virginia localities has been conducted. In its action last week, Leesburg

becomes the latest Loudoun town to voice opposition to the project. Hamilton and Hillsboro councils have already passed resolutions opposing the project, and Middleburg and Round Hill were expected to follow suit this month, too. Votes are also anticipated for the Purcellville and Lovettsville councils.

Holiday Changes for Trash Collection The weekly schedule for trash and recycling pick-ups will shift by a day because of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. There will be no pick-ups on Tuesday, Dec. 25, or the following Tuesday, Jan. 1, because of the holidays. Northwest Quadrant residents, whose pick-ups are Mondays, will be the only residents not affected by the schedule change. All other pick-ups will shift forward by a day. Any questions or concerns during these days should be directed to Patriot Disposal by calling 703-771-6677 or emailing leesburgsupport@patriotdisposalservices.com. Automatic email and text notifications of changes to trash, yard waste and recycling collection schedules are also available. Customers can sign up to receive these notifications at leesburgva.gov/subscribe.

New Lease Supports Loudoun Museum’s Restructuring BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ

<< FROM 10 ing that he said required the NAACP to be consulted on such issues. The critics urged the council to abandon the RFP process and open

jority of the council. There were no specific operational performance standards included in the lease, although it does cite the expectation that the museum will be open to the public a minimum of 46 hours a week. Museum board president Michael O’Connor said last week that expectations are that the museum will reopen

in January, under the direction of the museum’s newly hired executive director, Joseph Rizzo. The museum is also in the midst of a capital campaign to pay for extensive improvements to the space. Vice Mayor Suzanne Fox was the lone dissenter on the vote.

direct talks with representatives of the African-American community about the future of the property. Councilman Marty Martinez attempted to do that, but his motion to suspend the council’s meeting rules and vote on the issue required a unanimous vote. Councilman Tom Dunn objected.

Following the meeting, Martinez called for a special meeting which has been set for Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 7 p.m. to rescind the RFP and schedule a work session to discuss next steps for the cemetery property.

krodriguez@loudounnow.com

Cemetery

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Leesburg leaders and museum trustees hope that 2019 will bring brighter days for the Loudoun Museum. Last week, the Town Council approved a new five-year lease for its tenant.

Leesburg Town Manager Kaj Dentler received a vote of confidence, and a raise, from the Town Council last week. Council members voted 6-0-1 on Dec. 11 to extend the town manager’s contract another two years, to Oct. 4, 2020, and increase his pay by 3 percent. The 3 percent salary bump of almost $6,000 brings his total annual compensation to $196,226.50. Dentler has served as Leesburg’s town manager since October 2014. His career with the Town of Leesburg began well before that though, as he joined the town’s Parks and Recreation Department in 1996 and led the department for over a decade before being tapped as deputy town manager in 2007. He took over the town’s top post following John Wells’ retirement. Councilman Tom Dunn abstained from the vote, and noted that was only because he was not present, because of an illness, for the closed session where the council and Dentler discussed his annual performance review. Had he been present, he said, he probably would have voted for the salary increase.

13 December 20, 2018

The Loudoun Museum board of trustees will begin 2019 with a rosy outlook, and armed with a new lease from the Town of Leesburg. Following a tumultuous second half of 2018, which saw its executive director terminated and its remaining staff resign, museum doors have been shut since the summer. But support for the museum’s restructuring remains strong on the Leesburg Town Council, which also doubles as its landlord because the town owns the buildings in which the museum operates. The council and museum trustees recently discussed the need for a new lease, as the museum has been operating in a holdover position for 16 years. The original lease was executed in 1998. The new five-year lease, agreed to Dec. 11 in a 6-1 vote, continues at the rate of $1 per year, with the town responsible for repairs and maintenance to all major systems in the buildings. The museum is responsible for utility payments and all routine maintenance. The holdover provision in the new lease was removed by request of a ma-

Town Manager Receives Extension, Raise

[ E D U C AT I O N ]

[ BRIEFS ] Calendar for 2019-2020 Offers Long Winter Break

December 20, 2018

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Goshen Post Elementary students take part in the school’s dedication ceremony on Oct. 18. The new school is already over its building capacity, but will get some relief next school year when students’ new assignments take effect.

New Attendance Lines Drawn for 8 Loudoun Elementary Schools BY DANIELLE NADLER The Loudoun School Board has adopted new attendance zone assignments for eight elementary schools in the southern end of the county. In a unanimous vote late Dec. 11, the board agreed on Plan 104, which reassigns about 2,100 students. The attendance changes, that will go into effect in August, are needed because of the opening of Waxpool Elementary School in Ashburn and to decrease enrollment at some of the county’s most crowded elementary schools. The adopted plan will reassign more

students than most of the other seven proposals drafted by school system planners and School Board members. But board members said the plan would cut down on attendance changes in the future in the area north and east of Dulles Airport by taking into account two future elementary schools that will open in the area: ES-34, slated to open in 2028 and ES-23, with a planned opening in 2021. School Board member Beth Huck (At Large) pointed out that the adopted plan, 104, was based off of her proposal, Plan 102, which was based off of Eric Hornberger’s (Ashburn) proposal,

Plan 101. “So we definitely have worked through a few of the little hiccups and issues and together have come up with a plan we can all support,” she said. Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles) agreed. “This is probably the most collaborative attendance boundary process that we’ve ever had in the seven years since I’ve been on the board,” he said, noting that Plan 104 was his proposal but it was based on input from other board members and members of the community. ATTENDANCE LINES >> 16

School Board OKs 2 New Monroe Health Programs; Keeps Nursing Program Intact for Now

Danielle Nadler/Loudoun Now

Student Carolyn Carey asks members of the Loudoun County School Board to keep the licensed practical nursing program in place.

BY DANIELLE NADLER The Monroe Advanced Technical Academy, housed at the Academies of Loudoun, will launch two new health

programs starting in the fall of 2019: a biomedical technology pathway and a health informatics technology pathway. The Loudoun County School Board voted last week to open the two programs using space that is currently vacant at the Academies of Loudoun. The board and school system administrators are considering opening a third pathway, mental health technology, in the fall of 2020, but that will require the licensed practical nursing program to either be phased out or relocated to make room. The board voted 8-1 on Dec. 11 to direct administrators to keep enrollment open for the licensed practical nursing courses for the 2019-2020 school year while it looks to relocate the program. The two new programs—biomedical technology and health informatics technology—will create space for al-

most 60 more students than the practical nursing program, which currently enrolls 16. Debbie Rose (Algonkian), who cast the dissenting vote, described the licensed practical nursing program as a “nice to have” instead of a need, with a high cost and low return. This year, it requires four teachers for 16 students, and only a quarter of the students who take the course go on to complete the final post-graduate course and earn their license. “Everyone gets nervous about cutting a program that may not be working … It has high overhead, not enough interest, and not enough actual passing,” Rose said. Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles) explained that the board’s vote, and intent, is to give administrators a year to address efficiency and enrollment isNURSING PROGRAMS >> 16

School leaders are opting for a longer winter break next year. The Loudoun County School Board last week adopted its calendar for the 2019-2020 academic year, and chose what it labeled Option B. That calendar provides a 10-day winter break, from Dec. 23-Jan. 3, but requires the school year to stretch to Tuesday, June 9, to make up for those extra days off. Students’ first day of school will be Thursday, Aug. 22, a week and a half before Labor Day, and teachers are required to report to school for the year on Wednesday, Aug. 14. Spring break is scheduled for April 6-10. Beth Huck (At Large) said the majority of the emails she received from parents and teachers favored Option B. “I don’t love the idea of coming back for two days at the end of June,” she said, referring to the last day of school falling on a Tuesday. “But the longer holiday is always nice.” Joy Maloney (Broad Run) cast the one dissenting vote. She said most of her constituents favored Option A. The motion to adopt Option B was made by Chris Croll, the newly appointed Catoctin District representative. “Congratulations, Ms. Croll, on your first motion passing,” Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles) said. “Almost unanimously too.”

Improv Groups Win Award Loudoun County Public Schools’ improv clubs helped make possible a recent award won by the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. Last spring, the Loudoun Youth Advisory Council, sponsored by Parks and Rec, hosted the first LoCo Improv Fest. The LoCo Improv Fest was named “Best New Special Event” in the population of 100,000 or more category. The award was presented at the 63rd annual conference of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society held in Glen Allen on Nov. 7th. The LoCo Improv Fest was held at the Franklin Park Arts Center in Purcellville. Participating groups included: “Those Guys” from Briar Woods High School; “Comedy Cult” from Loudoun Valley High School; “Blank Slate” from Dominion High School; “Improv” from Broad Run High School; “Improvasaurus” from Loudoun County High School; and “SOFA” from Potomac Falls High School.

Seclusion, Restraint Debate Continues Ahead of Vote BY DANIELLE NADLER

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

Students at Ball’s Bluff Elementary School in Leesburg head to class.

changes to the proposed policy at the board’s meeting. Among their recommendations is a request that the policy completely prohibit the use of seclusion. Tropf noted that the proposed policy as written does a good job of defining restraint, but does not provide the same level of specificity for seclusion. “This is a significant area of concern for SEAC,” she said. She cited a 2015 report from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights that counted 13 cases of seclusion in Loudoun County schools, all special education students. She said that SEAC has identified many instances where seclusion and seclusion-like practices has been used without justification—“That is, where there was no

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Parents of special education students and school administrators continue to weigh in on the proposed policy that will set guidelines for the restraint and seclusion of students. The Loudoun County School Board is scheduled to vote Jan. 8 on a policy recommended by the Ad Hoc Committee on Special Education, but school leaders are still debating what type of parameters the policy should set for restraint and seclusion practices. The Ad Hoc Committee on Special Education is a 19-member working group created by the School Board to scrutinize the school system’s special education practices and recommend improvements. The board created the ad hoc committee after the school system was accused of restraining special education students and secluding some students for hours at a time. At a School Board meeting Dec. 11, Asia Jones, assistant superintendent of Pupil Services which oversees special education, asked that the policy include a sentence that states that “LCPS is working toward the elimination of the use of seclusion and restraint procedures while recognizing they may be used as a last resort in limited situations.” Members of the Special Education Advisory Council also requested an amendment to the policy, which they said doesn’t go far enough. Sharon Tropf, vice chairwoman of SEAC who also sits on the ad hoc committee, presented recommended

imminent threat of danger or serious risk of physical harm.” She said SEAC is in support of behavior management techniques recommended by the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program, also known as PBIS, which suggests “cool down” areas that are not locked but still allow for a situation or student’s emotions to de-escalate. Noting the list of amendments that SEAC and senior staff members want to make to the proposed policy, School Board member Joy Maloney (Broad Run) suggested sending the policy back to the ad hoc committee to find language that more stakeholders can agree on. “I am not comfortable voting on what I would consider to be a bad policy the way it is,” Maloney said. “We can try to amend it from the dais, but I think it would be better to have that discussion with the experts you have on the committee, with a SEAC representative there.” But the majority of board members voted to continue working on the policy at the full board level. Ahead of the Jan. 8 vote, Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles) asked board members to do their homework—talk to members of SEAC and the ad hoc committee—and to send any suggested amendments to their board colleagues in advance. “I think it’s going to be a lot of sausage making on the dais, but I think it is an important topic that we need to move forward with,” Morse said.

Nursing programs

December 20, 2018

<< FROM 14 sues within the nursing program while looking for a good place to relocate it. “We can always go back and readdress this next year ... but this would at least keep the LPN program going for another year while we’re looking for alternate paths for the facilities.” Assistant Superintendent Ashley Ellis, who oversees the Instruction Department, said her team is continuing to explore options on where to relocate the nursing program; it may be moved to a hospital or to Northern Virginia Community College’s Loudoun campus. “We don’t have an answer for that question yet, but we are actively ex-

Attendence Lines << FROM 14

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Board members agreed on one amendment to the plan, which is to return in January for an expedited boundary change for three planning zones: DN 45, DN 45.2 and DN 45.3. The adopted plan reassigns them from Moorefield Station Elementary— which is currently hundreds of students above its building capacity—to Mill Run Elementary. The expedited boundary changes are aimed at reassigning students in those neighborhoods from the Stone Hill Middle School and Rock Ridge High School

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ploring options,” she said. Ahead of the vote, student Carolyn Carey urged the board to keep the licensed practical nursing program intact. She told board members that she’s been preparing to take the licensed practical nursing course next year, as a junior, and she described the class as a catalyst for anyone entering the medical field. “If you could go back to high school and take a course that would be the catalyst of your career, would you take that program?” she asked. Learn more about enrollment options and course details on the biomedical technology, health informatics technology and the licensed practical nursing programs at lcps.org/acl; click on the MATA link. dnadler@loudounnow.com

cluster to the Eagle Ridge Middle School/Briar Woods High School cluster, so the students are not split in their secondary school years. “Their primary concern was not being cluster aligned,” Hornberger said. “We want those families to know we intend to address that issue.” Superintendent Eric Williams said his team can have a staff recommendation ready for the board’s next meeting, on Jan. 8, in time for the board to adopt a final boundary map Jan. 22. View the adopted Plan 104 at lcps. org; click on “school attendance boundaries.” dnadler@loudounnow.com

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Del. Jennifer Boysko (D-86) speaks to supporters at her campaign kick off event Saturday.

Boysko Kicks Off Campaign for Jan. 8 Special Election BY DANIELLE NADLER Despite Saturday’s relentless rain, a crowd of supporters showed up to Democratic Del. Jennifer Boysko’s campaign office in Sterling that morning to help her knock on doors and get the word out about the Jan. 8 special election. Boysko, who has represented the 86th District in the House of Delegates since 2016, is vying for the 33rd State Senate seat, vacated by Congresswoman-elect Jennifer Wexton. She faces Republican Joe T. May, founder and owner of electronics manufacturer EIT in Leesburg who served in the House of Delegates from 1994-2014. Boysko’s canvassing event Saturday doubled as the official kick off for her state Senate campaign. The 52-year-old shared about how she’s wanted to help others from an early age when she saw firsthand how her mother struggled to make ends meet. Her mother dropped out of college to marry her father at 18. The marriage did not work out, and she was suddenly a single mother who had never before held a job. She found a minimum-wage job without any sick leave, “so if I was sick she’d have to decide if she was going to pay a babysitter more than she made for the day, or leave

me at home by herself,” Boysko said. Her mother eventually re-enrolled in school because her father could help cover the cost. But Boysko said, “not everyone has a dad who will swoop in and help...That’s why I’ve spent my entire adult life working to improve others’ lives.” Of her work in the General Assembly thus far, Boysko said she’s most proud that she had a hand in expanding Medicaid coverage. “That’s health care for 400,000 Virginians who wouldn’t otherwise have it,” she said. “That’s probably the most important thing I’ll ever be able to do.” Wexton asked supporters crowded into the campaign offices to tell their neighbors, family members and coworkers to mark their calendars for Jan. 8 and vote for Boysko. “In the state Senate, we don’t have any seats to spare,” she said, noting that the Senate is split 19-21, with Republicans in the narrow majority. “We need to ensure the 33rd District stays in Democratic hands, and there is no one I would be more honored to take my seat than Boysko.” Learn more about May at joemayforvirginia.com and about Boysko at jenniferboysko.com. dnadler@loudounnow.com

State Lawmakers Urged to Back Equal Rights Amendment BY RENSS GREENE At their annual public hearing Monday, Loudoun’s state lawmakers heard from Loudouners in favor of the Equal Rights Amendment. Local and state lawmakers both have seen a surge of support for the Equal Rights Amendment, an amendment to the U.S. Constitution first introduced in 1921 and since reintroduced that seeks to outlaw discrimination based on gender. Its supporters say Virginia would be the 38th and final state needed to ratify it, but others say there are as few as 31 states supporting the amendment, and that the deadline to ratify has expired. Many of the people who signed

up to speak at the public hearing pushed lawmakers to support the Equal Rights Amendment, drawing on their own various backgrounds in the workforce and military and the history of unequal rights and wages for women. “We need to shore up sex discrimination and harassment laws,” said Brenda Bengtson. “Men deserve a fair shake when they are caretakers or in custody disputes or seeking benefits. And women are still harassed. Under the Equal Rights Amendment, courts will review carefully any government sex discrimination, giving it the same strong review as discrimination based on race, on religion or national origin.”

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Redskins Player Charged with Assault at One Loudoun

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Washington Redskins defensive back Montae Nicholson was arrested early Tuesday morning and charged with assault following a fight at One Loudoun’s town center. According to the Sheriff ’s Office report, deputies were called to the area just before 2 a.m. Dec. 18 for a report of a fight. Two victims, an adult male and an adult female, were located at the scene. Both reported being assaulted by another male and female. Montae Nicholson An investigation determined that Montae M. Nicholson, 23, of Ashburn, apparently assaulted the male victim, and female suspect Sydney A. Maggiore, 24, of Vienna, struck the female victim with a bottle and also assaulted the male victim. One of the victims reported the altercation occurred after the suspects pulled up in a vehicle and honked the horn at them. An argument ensued and escalated to a physical altercation. Nicholson was charged with assault and battery and drunk in public. He was held at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center on a $2,500 secured bond. Maggiore was charged with malicious wounding and assault and battery. She remains held without bond. Both victims were taken to a hospital for treatment of injuries described as serious but not life-threatening injuries. Nicholson is a backup defensive back who plays on special teams.

Sheriff Ends Investigation of Purcellville Priest The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office announced that it had completed its investigation into allegations of misconduct by a Purcellville priest and that no criminal charges would be filed. The Diocese of Arlington announced Dec. 7 that it had placed Father Ronald S. Escalante, the pastor of Saint Francis de Sales Church in Purcellville, on administrative leave pending an investigation of alleged “boundary violations involving a minor and adults” violating its clergy code of conduct. The diocese contacted the Sheriff ’s Office on Nov. 21 to inform the agency of the allegations. Escalante, who has denied wrongdoing, has served in the diocese in a variety of locations since 1994. He was named parochial administrator at Saint Francis de Sales in 2009 and has been pastor there since 2012.

ATM Thieves Sent to Federal Prison A Maryland couple was sent to federal prison last week in connection with a string of crimes that included stealing ATM machines from two Loudoun stores. Matthew Dale Bush, 39, of Grasonville, MD, was sentenced to 110 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to commit bank larceny, interstate transportation of stolen

goods, and interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, and for bank robbery and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The second defendant, Crystal French, also known as Crystal Lynn Bush, 34, also of Grasonville, was sentenced to 20 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to commit bank larceny, interstate transportation of stolen goods, and interstate transportation of stolen vehicles. The couple also was ordered to pay restitution of $10,341.38. According to their plea agreements, September and October 2017, the couple stole six ATMs that contained more than $38,900, and attempted to steal two other ATMs. The thefts occurred in Sterling and Broadlands in Loudoun County, as well as Stevensville, MD, Chester, MD; Kent County, DE; Dover, DE; Stevensville, MD; and Cambridge, MD. In the cases, Bush would enter the store wearing a mask, attached a chain or rope to the ATM, and they would pull the ATM out of the store through the front glass window. They would take the ATMs to their home in Grasonville. Bush and French married on Oct. 14, 2017, during the crime spree, and spent stolen money on personal items, including heroin and other illegal narcotics, according to the plea documents. SAFETY BRIEFS >> 19

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Investigators raided their home Oct. 19, 2017, recovering tow straps used to pull the ATM machines from the stores; sledgehammers used to break the glass at the stores; masks and clothing worn by the suspects in the surveillance videos at the burglaries; the license plate to one of the stolen pickup trucks, cut into pieces; packaging for “walkie-talkies” used by Bush and French during some of the ATM burglaries; and a van containing several damaged ATM machines. The police also found French’s cell phone, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun near the bed where Bush slept, and additional shotgun ammunition in the garage. Bush and French had fled before the search of their home, but resurfaced on Oct. 22, 2017, when they stole a pickup truck in White Marsh, MD, and tried to rob a gas station in Harford County, MD, where the clerk refused to give Bush any cash. The couple then drove to Lancaster County, PA, stole another pickup and returned to Harford County to steal 86 packs of cigarettes from a convenience store. Later that morning, held up a bank in Perry Hall, MD., leaving with $4,820. Officers spotted Bush and French driving away from the bank and attempted a traffic stop. Bush fled into Baltimore City, finally crashing into another vehicle. The two ran, but were followed by police officers, caught and

arrested. The cases were investigated as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime.

Aldie Man Faces 5-20 Years for Downloading Child Porn An Aldie man pleaded guilty in federal district court last week to using the internet to download videos and images depicting the sexual abuse of children. According to court documents, Hares Fakoor, 33, searched for and downloaded child pornography over a peer-to-peer file-sharing network. A forensic examination of two computers seized from his house in May 2016 revealed that, between December 2014 and May 2016, Fakoor downloaded and viewed numerous videos depicting child sexual abuse, including depictions of bestiality. Fakoor also configured a peer-to-peer file-sharing program to connect to the internet through a proxy service, which masked his IP address. Fakoor pleaded guilty to one count of receiving child pornography and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in prison when sentenced on March 15.

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Students at Chesterbrook Academy created care packages, including handwritten notes, for military personnel.

Chesterbrook Academy Sends Care Packages

Contributed

The National Museum of Intelligence and Special Operations, which will be built on an eight-acre parcel, will educate the public about the history of American intelligence and special operations and their critical role in preserving freedom.

OSS Intelligence Museum at Kincora Boosted by $10M Grant LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT The Starr Foundation this week announced a $10 million lead gift to the National Museum of Intelligence and Special Operations planned to be built in the Kincora development in Sterling. The foundation makes grants to education, medical research/health care, human needs, public policy/international relations, culture and the environment. “We are incredibly grateful to The Starr Foundation and its chairman, Maurice Greenberg, for their extraordinary generosity. This grant

continues The Starr Foundation’s commitment to educational programs that preserve and convey important aspects of American history,” stated OSS Society President Charles Pinck. The museum will highlight the importance of strategic intelligence and special operations, honor Americans who have served at the “tip of the spear,” and inspire others to service. The museum’s design was inspired by the spearhead, a symbol used by the intelligence and special operations communities since World War II. It was conceived by architect Curtis Fentress and will be visible from the flightpath of Dulles Airport. Patrick

Gallagher, the founder of Gallagher & Associates, one of the world’s leading museum planning and design firms, is designing the exhibits that will enable visitors to experience the world of intelligence and special operations through an immersive and interactive setting. MGAC is serving as the museum’s project management firm. The OSS Society, which is building the museum, is a nonprofit organization that honors the OSS, its successor organizations, and educates the American public about the importance of strategic intelligence and special operations to the preservation of freedom.

Committee Recommends Growing Loudoun Hunger Space shelter, the youth shelter, a new veterans center, and an The county’s biggest hunger extension office. With the nonprofit looks set to more expansion, the organization than double its space on Miller would also provide office Drive in Leesburg following a space to a number of othunanimous recommendation er nonprofits like Loudoun from the county’s Finance, Volunteer Caregivers and Government Operations and Loudoun Literacy, sharEconomic Development Coming resources among those mittee on Tuesday, Dec. 11. nonprofits. The committee recomWhen the county bought mended the full Board of Suthe building on Miller Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now pervisors approve a request County leaders are poised to allow Loudoun Hunger Relief to move into Drive, it took over Loudoun to expand the footprint of rent-free space being vacated by the Elections Office, doubling the food Hunger Relief ’s preexisting Loudoun Hunger Relief ’s rent- pantry’s footprint. lease in the building. Assisfree space in a county-owned tant County Administrator office building from 4,700 square feet Loudoun Hunger Relief executive di- Valmarie Turner said the county govto more than 10,500, taking over space rector Jennifer Montgomery. ernment currently has no other plans vacated after the Elections Office relo“The concept of a Loudoun Human for the space. cates. Loudoun Hunger would expand Services Hub has long been a desired In fiscal Year 2018, Loudoun Huninto an area currently used for election outcome for the county and for major ger Relief distributed $2.6 million office storage space. funders giving in the county,” Mont- worth and 1.4 million pounds of food The nonprofit is prepared to mount a gomery wrote. She pointed out the to 2,234 Loudoun County households. capital campaign to pay for the build- county’s recent nonprofit needs as- It has also become a food distribution out, and would take on the cost of sessment recommended a co-located hub for other nonprofits, and provides maintaining the space. fresh produce through a partnership space for human services. It’s a partnership that could form the In its current space, Loudoun Hun- with JK Community Farm. seed of a human services hub, as pro- ger Relief is now situated near the posed in a letter to supervisors from Adult Detention Center, the homeless rgreene@loudounnow.com BY RENSS GREENE

Students at Chesterbrook Academy Elementary and Middle School in Sterling recently partnered with nonprofit organization Operation Gratitude to assemble and ship more than 150 care packages to military personnel and first responders. Last month, students spent a day learning about how U.S. troops and first responders keep our country safe, while filling care packages with necessities, including deodorant, razors, hand sanitizer, lotion, mouthwash and wipes. During the event, students also wrote letters to the first responders and military members, thanking them for their service. Through this initiative, students learned the importance of giving back to others, especially during the holiday season. Operation Gratitude seeks to lift the spirits and meet the evolving needs of the U.S. military and first responder communities and provides volunteer opportunities for Americans to express their appreciation to all who serve our nation. Operation Gratitude has delivered more than 2.1 million care packages to military personnel.

Foxcroft Hosts Think Pink Charity Tournament Foxcroft School will hold its 10th annual Think Pink Basketball Tournament on Saturday, Jan. 12, and the public is invited to attend the event to help the school celebrate a decade of raising funds for the Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation. The round-robin tournament will feature 11 teams, including varsity, junior varsity and middle school levels. In all, the event will feature 15 games on three courts beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament will be held in the school’s Athletic/Student Center, at 22407 Foxhound Lane near Middleburg. Food concessions—including breakfast and lunch items—will be available throughout the day with proceeds benefiting the cancer foundation. Referees, scorers, and other officials mostly donate their time to help Foxcroft write a larger check to the foundation. The all-girls boarding school also hosts the foundation’s signature fundraiser—the Cherry Blossom Walk, Run and Pooch Prance— each fall and has integrated breast care self-advocacy into its wellness program.

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La Hacienda co-owners Arnoldo Vides, José Vides and Cesar Ramirez stand in front of their new restaurant after the lunch rush.

La Hacienda Brings Mexican Cuisine to Middleburg BY PATRICK SZABO Middleburg’s newest restaurant venture is bringing a Mexican flair to Washington Street. La Hacienda Tex-Mex & Grill Restaurant opened for business on Sunday in the 4,252-square-foot building that Julien’s Café once called home. With the only Mexican restaurant within 10 miles, co-owners Cesar Ramirez and brothers José and Arnoldo Vides are busy feeding residents and visitors seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends. They’re planning a formal grand opening in January with margaritas and wine at happy hour prices—and something the town hasn’t seen much of in its 231-year history: live music from a Mariachi band. Although it is their first venture together, the owners aren’t newcomers to the industry; they boast a combined 43 years of experience in the restaurant business. While the Vides brothers

bring 21 years of experience to the table, Ramirez brings 22, all working in managerial positions at restaurants. For the past 20 years, Ramirez worked as the regional manager for Foster’s Grille. He also worked for three years as a general manager with Anita’s New Mexico Style Restaurant. Before any of that, he gained experience crunching numbers working as an accountant for an American company in Mexico. “That’s why I feel confident,” he said. The deal to open La Hacienda came together at the end of last month, when José’s former boss, the owner of Julien’s, asked him if he’d want to open a restaurant there. After discussions with Ramirez and Arnoldo, the three hatched a business plan. Two weeks later, they were ready to open. “That’s how it came,” Ramirez said. “Everything happened so fast.” La Hacienda—named “the ranch” in Spanish for the thousands of acres of farmland surrounding the town—

is serving up a full menu of Tex-Mex dishes, including the Burrito California, an 8-ounce “Steak a la Mexicana” and chimichangas. “The chimichanga is a boom,” Ramirez said. Like other businesses in town, the team also plans to get involved in community events like spirit nights and Dining for Dollars fundraisers. Ramirez said that The Hill School has invited him over to promote his restaurant. “We definitely want to get more involved with the community and see how we can help,” he said. La Hacienda is the first Mexican restaurant to open in the town since El Agave moved out four years ago. That makes Middleburg a bit of an eclectic food destination. There are currently 14 restaurants in town that specialize in everything from Thai food and sushi to deli food and five-star dining. Business & Economic Development Director Jamie Gaucher said the diverLA HACIENDA >> 25

Airports Authority COO to Leave for Private Sector Airports Authority’s emergency preparedness functions. McKeough will remain at the authority through the end of January before joining Paslay Management Group of Fort Worth, TX, a professional management firm serving airport owners on large, complex capital development projects. “While I am excited by this new opportunity, I will always be grateful for the privilege of working with the talented and dedicated men and women of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority,” McKeough stated. “I have been fortunate to have enjoyed the work and the people who have

LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Margaret E. McKeough plans to depart after a 20-year tenure that has included management and oversight of Reagan National and Dulles airports. In addition to directing operations at the Washington, DC, area’s two major airports, McKeough is also responsible for the authority’s Public Safety division, which includes the airport police, fire and emergency medical response functions, totaling more than 1,300 employees. She also manages corporate relationships with the 38 airlines serving the two airports and the

McKeough

MCKEOUGH>> 25

Reston Limousine President and CEO Kristina Bouweiri was presented with the 2018 Golden Helix Award in recognition of her dedication and Bouweiri service to Inova Loudoun Hospital. Presented by the Inova Loudoun Hospital Foundation during the organization’s holiday party on Dec. 6, the award honors a volunteer who has dedicated his or her time and resources to impact philanthropy at the hospital. The award was inspired by the spiral staircase in the original hospital located on Market Street in Leesburg as well as the spirals of DNA’s double helix. “Kristina is the perfect recipient of the Golden Helix award— it’s about bringing people together to touch the lives of others. Kristina is someone who is so sincere in everything she does, leading others to be inspired to join her,” stated Edward Puccio, Inova Loudoun’s medical director for the Department of Emergency Medicine. As a member of the Inova Loudoun Hospital Foundation board of trustees, Bouweiri has organized charitable events that have raised $50,000 and connected philanthropists such as Sharon Virts and Scott Miller of the Virts Miller Foundation with the hospital organization. “I really see Kristina as a connector. There have been so many people that I’ve met as a result of my relationship with her—and she does it so naturally. So, I really appreciate everything she’s done for us, that she continues to do for us, and what she does for this community,” stated Inova Loudoun CEO Deborah Addo.

Caines Sterling Rotarian of the Year For the second time in the past 10 years, Bob Caines was named 201718 Rotarian of the Year by the Sterling Rotary Club. Caines, of the Caines Bob Caines Team real estate firm in Ashburn, was recognized for support of the Rotary’s community service outreach, including his leadership of the “The Flags for Heroes” project that displayed more than 200 American flags along Rt. 7 during Veterans Day. A Loudoun native, Caines joined the Rotary in 1992. “I am humbled by this award. Through Rotary, I am blessed to work with incredible people doing importBIZ BRIEFS >> 25

[ BIZ BRIEFS ] ant things for our community,” Caines said.

NCC Lands 3 More Industry A wards

F45 Training Expands to Goose Creek Village in Ashburn Australian fitness concept F45 Training will open a new training center in the Goose Creek Village retail center in March, but memberships already are

McKeough << FROM 24 been with me, behind me and beside me through the years, which makes my decision to leave, even after two decades, very difficult. I will certainly miss working with this amazing team, and I wish each of them and the Airports Authority great success.” MWAA President and CEO Jack Potter praised McKeough’s service and contributions to the airports’ growth and progress. “Throughout my tenure at the Airports Authority, I have always depended on Margaret’s institutional and industry knowledge and her unwavering dedication to top-quality performance and service to our customers,” Potter stated. “Her unique skills and experiences have been instrumental in moving our business forward. Margaret

La Hacienda << FROM 24 sity adds value to the town. “It really is an anchor for our local economy,” he said. Town Administrator Danny Davis agreed, noting that it shows that people are looking for different kinds of dining experiences. “The options really are great,” he said. Less than a week after opening,

Ramirez and the Vides brothers are looking at opening another location in 2019 that could take them to the Gainesville area. For just right now, though, they’re happy to be the only Mexican restaurant serving the residents and visitors of Middleburg. “I really want to encourage people to give us a shot,” Ramirez said. “I’m pretty sure that we are not going to disappoint them.” pszabo@loudounnow.com

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The National Conference Center in Lansdowne continues to receive accolades from meeting planners, recently landing three additional readers’ choice awards for the year. It was the third consecutive year that the NCC received a Platinum Choice Award from Smart Meetings magazine. Meetings Today magazine added a Best of the South award for the centers, service, meeting space, rooms and amenities. And Convention South magazine presented The National with a Best Meeting Site award for the third consecutive year. “I am indeed honored and proud of our team as we accept these awards and add them to our full trophy cabinet,” stated Geoff Lawson, vice president and general manager of The National. “These awards demonstrate how our staff, service, food, technology and space have continued to be at the forefront of the meetings industry.”

on sale. WYLI Venture Partners Inc., owners of F45 Ashburn, has leased a 3,205-square-foot first level storefront at 21020 Sycolin Road. F45 Ashburn will offer fitness programs with more than 1,200 exercises, changed daily; multi-screen LCD TVs displaying all exercises; heart rate technology for performance tracking; live DJ mixes and F45 FM music to keep members motivated; and a global support network of coaching professionals. The state-of-the-art fitness facility will include a full locker rooms and showers. In addition to the fitness facility in Ashburn, WYLI Venture Partners is also opening F45 Tysons, which is expected to open in May. This week, F45 Ashburn began selling a limited quantity of Foundation Memberships, which include fixed rate pricing; 25 percent reduction in rate from the standard month-to-month rate; no joining fees, no termination fees, and no fixed contracts; no cost access to the global F45 8-week training and nutritional challenges; and complimentary access to pre-opening boot camps, nutritional seminars, and events. Preliminary phase Foundation Members will also receive a complimentary F45 Lionheart Heart Rate monitor. Special rates available for active duty military, first responders, and teachers. For details, call or text 703-345-7798, go to f45training.com/ashburn or email ashburn@f45training.com.

25 December 20, 2018

<< FROM 24

has been a valuable colleague, and I will always be grateful for her collaboration, integrity and leadership. We will miss her greatly, and we wish her all the best.” McKeough came to the authority in 1998 from Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. She served as MWAA’s vice president for business administration before being named chief operating officer in 2004. She also serves as the 2018 president of the Aero Club of Washington, one of the nation’s oldest and most active aviation industry groups, and on the board of directors of the Airport Cooperative Research Program, an organization sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration to develop solutions to issues facing the airport industry. She also has served on the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, which advises the Secretary of Commerce on matters relating to the travel and tourism industry in the United States.

[ OUR TOWNS ]

[ TOWN NOTES ] MIDDLEBURG

December 20, 2018

Book Store to Host Christmas Dinner For those who don’t feel like cooking on Christmas day, Second Chapter Books will do all the work for you. The book store on Christmas next Tuesday, Dec. 25 from 1-3 p.m. will host the town’s annual Community Christmas Dinner. Residents are invited to head over to the book store after opening presents to enjoy a free dinner sponsored by the Middleburg Business and Professional Association and Emmanuel Episcopal Church and catered by Side Saddle Café and Middleburg Common Grounds. For more information, call the book store at 540-687-7016. Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Under Lovettsville’s new parking requirements, Andy’s Pizza & Subs would be required provide at least 31 parking spots if it expands or renovates.

Lovettsville Increases Off-Street Parking Requirements

BY PATRICK SZABO usinesses planning to expand or move into Lovettsville might need to reconsider their parking situations. The Town Council last week voted unanimously to approve a zoning amendment to increase the required number of parking spaces for commercial and civic uses, including banks, restaurants, museums, retail shops, libraries and schools. The amendment would be applied to all town businesses only if they plan to expand or undertake renovations that significantly change their building’s character. Existing operations are grandfathered, allowed to operate as legal non-conforming uses. “I can’t make people go in after the

fact and put in more parking,” said Zoning Administrator Josh Bateman. Certain businesses in the Community Commercial District, however, could be exempt from the requirements, such as when a business opens in a vacant commercial space previously used by another business—such as if a new restaurant moves into the former Lovettsville Pizza & Subs building. Bateman said that exemption should invite new businesses to town, since they won’t have to worry much about parking. “It’s for downtown revitalization,” he said. Businesses with expansion or serious renovation plans are also exempt if up to 25 percent of the parking spots in a public lot or 25 percent of on-street parking spaces within 500 feet help it meet the new requirements.

The only public parking lot in Lovettsville is at the Town Office, with just a few businesses located within 500 feet of it, including Andy’s Pizza & Subs, Market Table Bistro, Back Street Brews and The Painted Pig. The town’s Capital Improvement Plan does, however, have a goal to build another public lot in fiscal year 2023 for $35,000. Businesses that can’t claim an exemption will have to follow the new rules. Sit-down restaurants are now required to have one parking space per 150 square feet of total gross floor area, plus one additional space for every four seats of outdoor seating. Previously, they were required to have one parking space for every four people based on the maximum occupancy load and one OFF-STREET PARKING >> 29

38 Apply for Purcellville’s Deputy Police Chief Position BY PATRICK SZABO The Town of Purcellville is one step closer to hiring its first deputy police chief. As of Monday, the town’s Police Department received 38 applications from individuals interested in becoming deputy police chief. A review of the department by Wilson Elser law firm and consultant Timothy Longo recommended that the town create the post, among other management and operational changes. Police Chief Cynthia McAlister said that she’s hoping to have the deputy chief on the force by the end of January. McAlister said that Town Manager David Mekarski would be included in the selection process and that she’s DEPUTY >> 29

Salamander to Host Brunch with Santa While the Salamander Resort features family-friendly events year-round, this time it’s gone all out. The resort this Sunday, Dec. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will host a Brunch with Santa event for families to enjoy a meal with the best holiday fare in its ballroom, which will be converted into a winter wonderland. Not only will kids be able to visit with and take a photo with Santa, but all guests are invited to take advantage of a make-your-own holiday keepsake designing station. Entry is $55 per person and $30 for children. For more information, call the resort at 540-326-4070.

LOVETTSVILLE Town Council Sets Priorities Moving into 2019 and the next fiscal year, the Lovettsville Town Council has its priorities in order. The Town Council last Thursday approved its fiscal year 2020 Priorities, which include the undertaking of a $400,000 meter replacement project, town office modifications, up to $20,000 in pedestrian safety improvements, an Information Security Plan for $25,000 and a discussion of changes to the Town Council meeting agenda aimed to improve organization and efficiency. To view the full list, check the Dec. 13 Town Council meeting agenda at lovettsvilleva.gov.

PURCELLVILLE Christmas Parade Rescheduled for Saturday

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Purcellville Police Chief Cynthia McAlister is vetting applicants for a new deputy police chief.

The wet weather may have stopped the Town of Purcellville’s annual Christmas parade from happening last week, but it’s back on track for this week. The town announced on MonTOWN NOTES >> 27

[ TOWN NOTES ] day that it’s parade is rescheduled for this Saturday, Dec. 22 from 12-1:30 p.m., following last weekend’s cancellation due to rain. The parade will begin at Loudoun Valley High School before turning west onto Main Street and north onto North 21st Street and ending at the train station. The town’s Economic Development Committee will still be hosting the float contest and awarding 1st, 2nd and 3rdplace prizes with awards donated by Chick-fil-a, Magnolias at the Mill and Dunkin’ Donuts. For more information, contact Events Specialist Hibah Salah at 540751-2390 or at hsalah@purcellvilleva. gov.

Submissions Wanted for January Film Festival Filmmakers of all kinds are invited to submit their short and feature-length films to the 2nd annual Cabin Fever Film Festival. The Town of Purcellville’s Arts Council in conjunction with the Franklin Park Visual and Performing Arts Center are currently accepting submissions for the film festival, which will be held Jan. 25-26 at the arts center. This year’s focus will be on student productions and vintage home movies shot by residents in the 20132 ZIP code area. Submissions are due in by Jan. 11 at 5 p.m., must

be 1-90 minutes in length, in digital format on a flash drive or DVD and can be dropped off at the arts center. There is a $10 entry fee for the first submission and $5 for each additional entry. For more information, email Franklin Park Arts Center Manager Elizabeth Bracey at elizabeth.bracey@loudoun.gov or Purcellville Arts Council Chairwoman Liz Jarvis at arts@purcellvilleva.gov.

Santa to Ride Through Town This Week Kids, be on the lookout for Santa Claus this week because he’ll be visiting your neighborhood. Santa this Friday and Saturday, Dec. 21-22, from 6-9 p.m. will take a ride atop one of the Purcellville Volunteer Fire Co.’s fire engines as he visits neighborhoods around town. Keep your eyes and ears open for the sirens flashing lights to make sure you don’t miss him. For more information, call the town at 540-338-7421 or the fire company at 540-338-5961.

Council Briefed on Greenhouse Gas Emissions The Town of Purcellville could be looking at a few initiatives in 2019 to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments gave a pre-

sentation to the Town Council last week, detailing the ways greenhouse gas emissions affect local towns. Maia Davis, the council’s senior environmental planner, told the Town Council that emissions in Purcellville increased by only 2 percent from 2012-2015, with per capita emissions decreasing by 8 percent—all during a time of increased population. “That means each person coming to your community is being more efficient,” Davis said. Davis said that if the town wants to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, it should set goals and integrate climate action into community plans. If the town reduces its emissions by 10 percent, that would equate to planting 250,000 trees or taking 2,091 cars off the road for one year. To become a member of the council, the town would have to pay $4,000 annually.

HILLSBORO Christmas Eve Dinner at Grandale There’s no better day than Christmas Eve to neglect cooking and head out with the family for a relaxing evening of fine dining. 868 Estate Vineyards next Monday, Dec. 24 from 5-9 p.m. will host its annual Christmas Eve dinner by the fireside at its Grandale Restaurant.

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Dinner guests will enjoy farm-to-fork selections from the restaurant’s regular menu or holiday specials. To read the menu or to make a reservation, visit grandalerestaurant. com.

WATERFORD Wildlife Conservancy to Host 22nd Annual Bird Count The Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy next Friday, Dec. 28 will host its 22nd annual Central Loudoun Christmas Bird Count as part of the National Audubon Society’s nationwide event. bird enthusiasts will head out in groups into a 177-square-mile area to observe and document how the region’s birds are holding up. Some participants will have the pleasure of doing so at the 144-acre Phillips Farm in Waterford. Signup deadline is set for this Saturday, Dec. 22. Last year’s 95 participants documented the activity of 46,703 birds across 98 species. Among those were 132 yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, 10 Eastern Phoebes and four Brown Thrashers. For the first time ever, no Eastern Meadowlarks were found. For more information or to sign up for the count, visit loudounwildlife. org or email Joe Coleman at jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org.

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December 20, 2018

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A distant shot of a home along Featherbed Lane about a mile away from the historic John. G. Lewis Memorial Bridge.

Purcellville Council Meets to Amend Fireman’s Field Contract BY PATRICK SZABO

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A new deal between the Town of Purcellville and Shaun Alexander Enterprises for management of Fireman’s Field has been hammered out and is ready to take effect. The Town Council on Dec. 12 met in a special meeting to vote on a contract amendment that will enact a few changes to Alexander’s management of the 15.89-acre complex moving into 2019. As of Tuesday, it was unclear what those modifications were. Town Manager David Mekarski said last week that negotiations with Alexander wrapped up on Dec. 12 and that both parties were “in good standing.” The contract modifications come three months after the Town Council initially voted to amend Alexander’s contract to remove his responsibility for maintenance of Fireman’s Field and to reduce his monthly rent payments from $10,000 to $4,000 for the remainder of 2018. While Alexander will go into next year with a different set of priorities, the county’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department will continue to operate and maintain the complex’s athletic fields until April 2019. The Purcellville Teen Center will also continue to manage operations in the Bush Tabernacle. The most recent agreement followed months of negotiations between the town and Alexander that saw the addition and removal of multiple action items on Town Council agendas. On Dec. 11, Town Attorney Sally Hankins requested that an action item to amend the contract be removed from the agenda after an hour-long

meeting on the matter with council members behind closed doors. Mekarski said that meeting marked the first time council members had the chance to read the language of the contract modifications. On Nov. 13, Mekarski also requested the removal of an action item, later noting that it was on the agenda as a “placeholder” in case town staff was ready to move forward with a council vote. Alexander’s management of the complex began on Jan. 1, 2018, and initially saw him managing the entire complex and paying the town $120,000 in 2018 with annual payments increasing by $10,000 each year until 2022. For the first seven months, Alexander also subcontracted with Play to Win—a regional sports management firm that also operates the Evergreen Sportsplex in Leesburg—to manage day-to-day operations in the tabernacle. That deal fell through when Play to Win backed out at the end of July, three months after it announced an increase in user fees that prompted the Upper Loudoun Youth Football League to find another venue for its 2018 season. After requesting a reimbursement from the town for initial cleanup, repairs and maintenance of the complex that was nearly $30,000 more than what the town was contractually obligated to pay, Alexander in August informed the town that he would terminate his contract on Sept. 1. He retracted that notice less than two weeks later after realizing that it would have been a breach of contract.

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Off-street parking additional space per 300 square feet of outdoor seating. Thaiverse Owner James Cameron said the new ordinance won’t affect him much, since he doesn’t plan to expand. Even if he did, he has more than enough parking, with about 40 spots in the back. “I don’t think it will have much of an impact on us,” he said. The amendment could also affect Lovettsville Elementary, since elementary schools are now required to have

Deputy << FROM 26 looking for someone with solid leadership and management skills who has experience managing budgets, personnel and critical incidents. The prime candidate should also have community engagement “at the core of their policing policy” and have “a track record of holding people accountable.” “It will be a thorough investigation,” McAlister said. “It’s a decent amount to go through.” The deputy chief will be paid about $90,000 annually and will support McAlister by working in the field with officers and allowing her to perform important administrative work. The deputy chief will also more clearly establish the department’s succession of command. Since mid-September, Dianne Git-

ployees working there each day, the office would be required to have about 19 spaces. It currently has 21. The new ordinance also allows businesses to share parking lots. If town approves any shared uses, up to 25 percent of the two buildings’ total number of spaces could be reduced from their overall parking requirement. Bateman said this would make the most sense, for example, if a professional office were to share spaces with a sports bar, since their peak operational times would be at different points in the day.

tins, the retired City of Alexandria police chief, has acted as interim deputy police chief. She is being paid up to $45,000 and will remain in the role until mid-February to help the transition to the new deputy chief. The police department is also looking to hire an accreditation manager to ensure that it remains in compliance with the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission’s accreditation standards and to update its General Orders Manual when needed. Emily Johnson has acted in that role part time since August and is being paid $35,000 to do so until June 30, 2019. McAlister said that her department is looking to include a full-time accreditation manager position in the town’s fiscal year 2020 budget. The department also plans to hire an operations commander to oversee patrol operations and manage the ar-

mory, coordinate daily roll call training and advance the department’s efforts to engage with the community. That position will be at the lieutenant rank. Sgt. Mike Owens has served as the department’s interim lieutenant since August. McAlister said the ultimate goal is to have two lieutenants in the department—one managing operations and one managing administration. She said that could happen once the town completes a pay compensation study and updates employees’ salary figures. “We just haven’t had any pay adjustments for years,” she said. In addition to hiring a deputy chief and two support positions, the police department also graduated a cadet from the police academy on Tuesday and plans to enroll three more for a June 2019 graduation.

pszabo@loudounnow.com

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

fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

pszabo@loudounnow.com

Franklin Park Arts Center Holiday Family Events 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville, VA 20132 franklinparkartscenter.org 540-338-7973

Planetarium Show “Star Stories” Thursday, Dec 27 at 2:30 pm, 3:15 pm, 4:30 pm (Ages 6 & up) Step inside our Digitalis Delta 4 inflatable planetarium to experience the wonder of space! This month you can get hands on practice with how to use a star finder and identify constellations and hear the stories about them. Star shows typically last 30-40 minutes and are appropriate for ages 4 & up. Planetarium shows are on the stage of the theater with mostly floor seating.

YOU MUST CALL TO REGISTER - 540-338-7973 -338-7973 Tickets: $8/person PAY AT DOOR

Tanglewood Marionettes: Cinderella Friday, Dec 28 at 3:00 pm

(Ages 2 & up) Set in the eighteenth century and featuring a dozen lavishly costumed 30” marionettes, this production of Cinderella is a Tanglewood Marionettes showpiece. Based on the original beloved tale, with a few new surprises, and when all hope seems lost, a clever little bluebird saves the day for Cinderella.

Tickets: $5/person Pay at Door

Family New Year’s Eve Celebration

Monday, Dec 31 at 7:00 pm (All ages) Celebrate New Year's Eve with the entire family! The evening begins with Peter McCory, the One-Man Band, leading the audience in sing-a-longs One longs and even inviting a few of you to join his band. Enjoy fancy treats and crafts during intermission in the Lobby. Then it's back into the theater for American Magic Lantern Theater presenting “A Victorian New Year’s Celebration” that features the beauty and drama that was hi hi-tech tech in the 1890's! This is the only touring theater company that recreates the magic and beauty of these Victorian era shows and the artistic projections will dazzle you! The show will feature live music such as Deck the Halls, Mighty Lak’a Rose and Mummers Parade. We will count down to “midnight” complete with a balloon drop and noisemakers. Parents will be home in time put the kids to bed and still watch the festivities in Times Square!

Tickets: Webtrac 263722263722-01 263722 -01 $10/Person Webtrac 263722-02 $35/Family of four or more

<< FROM 26

0.25 parking spaces per student, as opposed to the previous one space per 25 classroom seats. With 521 students enrolled and 582 total classroom seats, that increases the number of required parking spaces from 23 to 130—meaning the school would need to add in 25 spaces if it adds a classroom or two. Government buildings are now required to have one space per 65 square feet of assembly area, with an additional 1.25 spaces per employee. Even though the Town Office is not subject to town zoning, it does meet that requirement. With about 660 square feet dedicated to assembly space and seven em-

[ LOCO LIVING ]

[ THINGS TO DO ] HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

December 20, 2018

Holiday Teas at Oatlands Friday, Dec. 21 and Saturday, Dec. 22, 1-3 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 23, 1-3 p.m. and 4:30-6 p.m. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg Details: oatlands.org Choose from a range of winter and holiday themes as Oatlands celebrates with afternoon teas along with a special candlelight tea on Sunday, Dec. 23. Check the website for more information.

Christmas Caroling with Chris Bowen Friday, Dec. 21, 8 p.m. 1836 Kitchen and Taproom, 34 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville Details: 1836kitchenandtaproom.com Jump in and sing or just relax and listen at this holiday-themed open mic hosted by The Bone Show’s Chris Bowen.

Drinking with Santa and his Elf Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Volunteers with Toys for Tots gathered last Thursday to collect, sort and distribute toys that will be gifted to hundreds of Loudoun County children.

Nonprofits’ Elves Make Season Bright for Loudoun Children BY JAN MERCKER Making Christmas happen for local families in need takes months of preparation, hundreds of volunteers and thousands of donations. And two very dedicated couples are at the heart of efforts to make the season bright for every kid in Loudoun. Salvation Army captains Pradeep and Priscilla Ramaji run that organization’s beloved Angel Tree and Holiday Toy Shop programs in Loudoun, while Rita Sartori and her husband Frank Holtz coordinate Loudoun’s massive Toys for Tots program. Last week, things were buzzing at the Salvation Army’s distribution center in Leesburg and Toys for Tots sorting center in Ashburn, the culmination of months of hard work by organizers and their teams of volunteers. On Dec. 13 and 14, the first phase of the Salvation Army’s two-pronged approach to serving Loudoun children—the Angel Tree program—was in full swing. For this effort, hundreds of families pre-register in the fall and provide child-specific wish lists. The Salvation Army makes individual tags with specific wish lists, and each child is “adopted” in advance by local businesses, churches and individuals who purchase clothing and toys just for them. “It involves the community in a direct way and allows people to become personally involved,” said Priscilla Ramaji, who coordinates the Angel Tree program. And many donors love to go big, she said, with donations including ride-on toys, dollhouses and dozens of brand new bikes. On the first day of distribution last Friday, the donated warehouse

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

A Salvation Army volunteer helps a family load a toy kitchen into their car at last week’s Angel Tree Distribution.

space in the former Loudoun Motorsports building on Catoctin Circle was jumping with clients and volunteers bringing out bags of toys and wheeling out shiny bikes. And wish lists didn’t just include toys—the Leesburg space was also full of new car seats and high chairs for the younger set. Ramaji says the Angel Tree program served 635 families with about 1,400 children this year. Once the Angel Tree gifts were distributed last week, the Ramajis and their team of volunteers restocked and reopened Tuesday with phase two: the Holiday Toy Shop for families who weren’t able to meet the Angel Tree Registration deadline in October but still need help buying gifts for their children. Families are able to register closer to the date for the toy shop, and while there are no personalized wish lists, parents can choose up to five toys

per child. For Ramaji, making sure that every child wakes up receiving something special is essential. “Childhood is very precious,” she said. “We’re helping them to make good memories, and we’re thankful to the donors.” While individuals, businesses and organizations take the lead in the Angel Tree program, the primary donor for the Holiday Toy Shop program is another big player on Loudoun’s holiday giving scene: the Toys for Tots program organized by Loudoun’s Marine Corps League Detachment 1205 and coordinated by Sartori and Holtz, a retired U.S. Marine. Working with partners including area businesses and fire and rescue companies, Toys for Tots collects tens of thousands of toys then works with a network of partners—including the Salvation Army—to distribute the toys to families. A few years ago, Toys for Tots shifted its model from direct distribution to families to working with partner nonprofits including Mobile Hope, LINK Against Hunger, and Community Empowerment Northern Virginia along with churches and other social services organizations. “Since the organizations work with them year round they know the families,” Sartori said. Last Thursday, Toys for Tots was bustling on one of its busiest and most exciting days: toy receiving day, when fire and rescue companies from around the county bring donations to the program’s donated warehouse space for sorting, filling three ambuGIVING >> 33

14 Loudoun, 14 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg Details: facebook.com/14loudoun Santa and his elf will be on hand for photos, along with classic holiday music, friends and fun.

Wool Market Postponed to Saturday The Loudoun Valley Sheep Producers Association will bring its pop-up wool market to the Leesburg Farmers Market on Saturday, Dec. 22. The group was scheduled to be at the market last Saturday, but postponed because of heavy rains. The sheep farmers and artisans will sell their products made from local sheep’s wool—including scarves, gloves, hats, Christmas stockings and ornaments—from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 15. Find details at loudounfarmersmarkets.org or lvspa. org. Santa’s Secret Farm Petting Zoo Saturday, Dec. 22, noon-4 p.m. Lansdowne Resort and Spa, 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Leesburg Details: destinationhotels.com/ lansdowne-resort Children 10 and under are invited to visit Santa’s animal friends, including white hares, alpacas, doves and goats at this magical petting zoo. Event is free, and no tickets are required.

Morven Park Holiday Tours Saturday, Dec. 22, Sunday, Dec. 23, Wednesday, Dec. 26, Thursday, Dec. 27 and Friday, Dec. 28, noon-5 p.m.

MORE THINGS TO DO >> 31

[ THINGS TO DO ] Morven Park, 17195 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg Details: morvenpark.org Visit the gorgeous Davis mansion in its holiday splendor and learn how early 20th Century Christmas customs evolved into the holiday traditions we enjoy today. Last tour starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child. Final tours for the season are Dec. 29 and 30.

Christmas Sing Along with Tender Polman Saturday, Dec. 22 and Sunday, Dec. 23, 2-5 p.m. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Hopwoods Lane, Leesburg Details: vanishbeer.com Sing along to holiday favorites with DMVbased singer/guitarist Tender Polman. No cover.

Pints and Present Wrapping

in a paper snowflake while you enjoy a refreshing glass of wine and pick up a few bottles for last minute gifts.

Holiday Farmhouse Brunch Sunday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m.-noon Bluemont Vineyard, 18755 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont Details: bluemontvineyard.com Enjoy a farm-style holiday brunch including fresh biscuits, country ham, fried chicken and sausage gravy at the Stable at Bluemont Vineyard. Tickets are $28 for adults, $15 for children, free for children under 4.

NIGHTLIFE Live Music: Sons of Liberty Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Dragon Hops Brewing, 130 E. Main St., Purcellville Details: dragonhopsbrewing.com

Saturday, Dec. 22, 2:30-6:30 p.m.

Celebrate the solstice with great southern rock from the Sons of Liberty. No cover.

Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Ashburn

Live Music: Boathouse Row

Details: oldoxbrewery.com Like beer and hate wrapping presents? Old Ox will wrap those pesky presents while you sit back and sip in exchange for a donation to the Ashburn Rotary Foundation.

2.42

APY*

BIG NUMBER. BIG SAVINGS.

Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com These yacht rock specialists bring to life the music you’d want to set sail to: Hall and Oates, Journey, Chicago, Christopher Cross and other classics. Tickets are $10 in advance, $35 for VIP seats.

SPECIAL OFFER

ON A NEW ADJUSTABLE MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT Now for a limited time, we’re offering 2.42% APY*

Courtesy of Bluemont Vineyard

when you open a new adjustable money market

Illumination of the Vines

account with a new deposit of $250,000 or more.**

Saturday, Dec. 22 and Sunday, Dec. 23, 5 p.m. Bluemont Vineyard, 18755 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont

• Access to your money at any time

Details: bluemontvineyard.com Enjoy an evening of wine, holiday-inspired food and live music at Bluemont’s inaugural Illumination of the Vines. Bring a donation for Loudoun Hunger Relief.

Christmas at Old 690 Brewing Company Saturday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 23, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Purcellville Details: old690.com Both days feature gift wrapping by a area nonprofit while you enjoy a pint. Saturday evening is extra special with the Old 690 Christmas PJ party.

LIBATIONS

Courtesy of Atlantis

After Work Jazz Concert Series with Marcus Mitchell Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Atlantis, 45449 Severn Way, Dulles Details: atlantisva.info Atlantis’ monthly jazz concert series features noted smooth jazz saxophonist Marcus Mitchell. Tickets are $15 in advance.

Live Music: Mateo Monk Friday, Dec. 21, 8-11 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill

Bites Wine and Grilled Cheese Bar, 105 S. King St., Leesburg Details: facebook.com/bitesva

The Gallery Game

Get festive with tasty grilled cheese and half price sparkling wines.

Friday, December 21, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Paper Snowflakes at Fabbioli Cellars

Shoe’s Cup and Cork, 17 N. King St., Leesburg

Sunday, Dec. 23, noon-4 p.m.

Details: leesburgpublicarts.org

Fabbioli Cellars, 15669 Limestone School Road, Leesburg

Friends of Leesburg Public Arts’ monthly adventure starts with registration at Shoe’s Cup and Cork from 6 to 6:30 p.m.

Details: fabbioliwines.com A Fabbioli Cellar elf will cut your name

• Up to 6 additional transactions per statement cycle • Earn a higher interest rate than most money market accounts • Rate accurate as of 12/13/18 and subject to change

Learn more at sonabank.com or call us at 888.464.BANK (2265)

Details: bchordbrewing.com Mateo Monk performs solo on the guitar, flute, synthesizer, and melodica, using a looper pedal to create fully-textured rhythms and melodic musings bringing together world roots music and a little bit of spontaneous jam culture. No cover.

Sparkling Saturday at Bites

• Unlimited deposits and ATM withdrawals

MORE THINGS TO DO >> 33

BIG BELIEVERS IN YOU *New accounts only. APY = Annual Percentage Yield. The advertised APY is effective 12/13/18 and subject to change thereafter. Earn 2.42% APY on balances of $250,000 and above. Transfers from existing accounts do not qualify. The minimum to open the Money Market is $50,000. Fees may reduce earnings. Offer is subject to change without notice and may be withdrawn at any time. **For accounts over $5,000,000 please contact your local Sonabank branch.

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December 20, 2018

EDWIN mccain

12/20/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

YACHT ROCK NIGHT WITH BOAT HOUSE ROW

12/21/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

LOUDOUN HUNGER RELIEF FOOD DRIVE WITH THE FRAYED KNOTS 12/22/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

GRUNGE-A-PALOOZA 12/28/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

All Female tribute to the police: roxanne 12/29/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

THE REAGAN YEARS NEW YEARS EVE PARTY! 12/31/18 DOORS: 7:00PM

COMEDY NIGHT FEATURING 106.7 THE FAN’S DANNY ROUHIER

Loudoun Now File Photo

Frayed Knots headlines Saturday night’s Loudoun Hunger Relief Food Drive concert at the Tally Ho Theater.

Rocking Out Holiday Hunger It’s the heart of the giving season, but that doesn’t mean we can’t rock out while doing some good in the community. And, although there has been a focus on providing toys for families in need, area food banks are still collecting, too. Those two activities combine Friday night when the Tally Ho Theater hosts the Loudoun Hunger Relief Food Drive concert, featuring three area bands. The Frayed Knots headlines the evening, with support from Never Born to Follow and kirdA. “Loudoun Hunger Relief is so grateful to be the beneficiary of the Dec. 22 concert by The Frayed Knots at the Tally Ho Theater. Loudoun is

1/04/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

a wonderful community, and this kind of celebration and support is part of what makes it so special particularly during the holiday season,” said LHR Exective Director Jennifer Montgomery. The Knots—Ara Bagdasarian, Michael Croll, Geff Garnhart, Michael Haddad and Worth Hawes—are often the first to offer their services when comes to supporting area charities, but perform at festivals and special events throughout the Washington DC area. Playing a mix of covers and original songs, the band features classic and modern rock styles, with three-part harmonies, dual guitar leads, and extended jams.

You also may have seen Never Born to Follow perform before— perhaps winning the Loudoun Youth Battle of the Bands last year or on the big stage as the opening act for Bon Jovi in May. Formed by five Tuscarora High School students all of whom are classically trained, the band has been performing classic rock together for three years. Tickets are a $5 donation, but patrons are can skip the ticket booth by bringing a non-perishable food donation. Money raised through ticket sales also will go to Loudoun Hunger Relief. Doors open at 7 p.m. For tickets and details, go to tallyhotheater.com.

Hot Picks

Ballyhoo 1/11/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

A TRIBUTE TO RUSH: SUN DOGS 1/12/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

BEATLEMANIA NOW: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES! 1/18/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Wanted DoA:

A tribute to bon joVi 1/19/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

2U: THE WORLD’S 2ND GREATEST U2 SHOW! 1/25/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

SKIP CASTRO

2/01/19 DOORS: 7:00PM

Sons of Liberty

The High and Wides

Adam Scott Band

Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Dragon Hops Brewing dragonhopsbrewing.com

Saturday, Dec. 22, 8 p.m. B Chord Brewing Company bchordbrewing.com

Saturday, Dec. 22, 9 p.m. Spanky’s Shenanigans spankyspub.com

[ THINGS TO DO ] Then visit Photoworks, Tryst Gallery and Trinity House to pick up clues to solve the evening’s riddle. Prizes will be awarded to the first three teams to finish.

Live Music: Alan Scott Band Saturday, Dec. 22, 9 p.m. Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg Details: spankyspub.com

Courtesy of The Frayed Knots

Loudoun Hunger Relief Benefit with The Frayed Knots Saturday, Dec. 22, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com These LoCo favorites known for their versatile mix of original material and epic covers host a pre-holiday concert for Loudoun Hunger Relief. Never Born to Follow and Kirda open. Admission is $5 or free with a non-perishable food donation.

Live Music: The High and Wides Saturday, Dec. 22, 8 p.m. B Chord Brewing Company, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Bluemont Details: bchordbrewing.com The High and Wides draw from their members’ extensive backgrounds in bluegrass to take the music to a place of their own, drawing from the pre-bluegrass era when the seeds of bluegrass, country, rock’n’roll, and western swing blended freely under the header hillbilly music.

Unwind after holiday shopping with pop, alt-rock and funk from D.C. native Alan Scott.

Courtesy of Alan Scott

Live Music: Gina Furtado and Jack Dunlap Thursday, Dec. 27, 8-11 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com Virtuoso bluegrass pickers Gina Furtado and Jack Dunlap are banjo and mandolin geniuses respectively. They’ll knock your holiday socks off.

COMING UP Who in the Gap Saturday, Dec. 29, 7 p.m. Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro Details: oldstoneschool.org Loudoun’s own Whoville celebrates the season with a free concert by the Jon Spear Experience and a Grinch dress up party. Sorry kids--it’s an adults-only event.

Giving << FROM 30 lances, an emergency bus and four trailers packed to the brim. “They come and bring copious amounts of toys,” Sartori said. “It’s a beautiful day for us.” For Sartori and Holtz, the challenge each year is finding 10,000 to 12,000 square feet of warehouse space for sorting and distribution. And this year, Ashburn-based Sabey Data Centers stepped up with donated space. Sabey’s business development manager and Toys for Tots point of contact Michael Whitlock also organized a special visit from former Washington Redskins running back Ricky Ervins on toy receiving day. Ervins spent time with volunteers and donated a signed football that will go to Boulder Crest Retreat. Both Toys for Tots and the Salvation Army rely heavily on support from local businesses, organizers say. Sterling-based My Guys Moving donated trucks and drivers for the Angel Tree program, and the Salvation Army’s distribution space was donated by Ketterman’s Jewelers, which bought the Loudoun Motorsports building last year. Next door neighbor Summit Community Bank offered parking help and hot drinks and snacks to shoppers. Ramaji said area businesses are also key players in the Angel Tree program, with many companies adopting multiple families and some, including Inova Loudoun Hospital and Catoctin School of Music, taking on up to 100 children.

JOIN US FOR A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET

Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now

Hundreds of bags of toys await pickup at the former Loudoun Motorsports building during last week’s Salvation Army Angel Tree Distribution.

Participating in the program is also meaningful for donors, who often volunteer their time in addition to buying gifts. “Our involvement extends from who we are—a community hospital,” said Debbie Carlton Inova Loudoun’s chaplaincy manager. “We care deeply about our community and this opportunity allows us to partner with the Salvation Army to make an impact in the community we are proud to serve and call home. … It is a beautiful experience and we receive much more than we give.” Learn about volunteering or sponsoring a child next year through the Salvation Army at virginiasalvationarmy.org/ loudouncountyvacorps. Find out about hosting a collection location next year at loudounmarines.org/ toys-for-tots.

703-777-5000 | leesburgcolonialinn.com

<< FROM 31

December 20, 2018

Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW AND INSPECTION FEE SCHEDULE (FEE SCHEDULE) AND THE SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (SLDR) DIVISION 2 - SUBDIVISION, DIVISION 3 DEVELOPMENT AND DIVISION 10 - GLOSSARY Pursuant to Sections 15.2-2204, 15.2-2240 and 62.1-44.15:27 through 62.1-44.15:35 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider the following amendments to the Town’s Land Development and Inspection Fee Schedule as well as the Town’s Subdivision and Land Development Regulations: Sec. 2.08 In paragraph (b): Update Town Code References Sec. 2.15 New opening paragraph: Removes Lot Grading Plans and Revisions to Lot Grading Plans from this plan type. Also, in paragraph (a): Clarified which items are not associated with final house sitings. Sec. 2.19 – 2.24 New sections of the SLDR to define purpose and applicability of lot grading plans; filing requirements of Lot Grading Plans; Eligibility of Lot Grading Plans; Review and approval procedures for Lot Grading Plans; Expiration of Lot Grading Plans; and Required contents of Lot Grading Plans. Sec. 3.08 In paragraph (b): Remove the requirement for Over Lot Grading plans for lots of record associated with an active approved subdivision plan; Define when a Mini Site Plan is required for lots of record where frontage improvements do not exist; Increase allowable bond amount from $50,000 to $100,000. Sec. 3.09 In paragraph (f): Revise Code Section Sec. 3.17 Division 10 (Glossary) - Adds clarification to the following definitions: “Dwelling, Single-Family Attached” and “Dwelling, Two Family”. Also adds a new definition for “Dwelling, Single-Family Attached (Stacked Townhouse / Two Over Two Units”). Fee Schedule: Adds new fees categories for lot grading plans, revisions to lot grading plans and bond release for projects that have never been constructed. Copies of these proposed amendments to the SLDR are available at the Department of Plan Review, 2nd floor, Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling Sharon Kilpatrick at 703-771-2740. The amendments may also be examined on the Town’s web page at https:// www.leesburgva.gov/government/departments/plan-review/codes-ordinances-publications/ tloa-2018-0001-proposed-amendments-to-the-sldr. This Subdivision and Land Development ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2019-0001. At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact Planning and Zoning Assistant Karen Cicalese (703)771-2434, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 12/20/2018 & 12/27/2018

NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING (CONCEPT PLAN AND PROFFER AMENDMENT) APPLICATION TLZM-2018-0001 AND SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSE-2018-0001, OAKLAWN DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, LLC & KEANE SCHMITZ LAND BAY D, LLC

Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Rezoning (Concept Plan and Proffer Amendment) application TLZM-2018-0001 and Special Exception application TLSE2018-0001, Oaklawn Development Partners, LLC and Keane Schmitz Land Bay D, LLC. The subject property consists of two parcels that collectively comprise 3.7 acres owned by Oaklawn Development LLC and Keane Schmitz Land Bay D, LLC, and are located at 304 and 306 Kelly’s Ford Plaza within the Oaklawn Development. The property is zoned PEC, Planned Employment Center, and is further described as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Numbers (PINs) 233-20-3806 (Oaklawn Development Partners, LLC) and 233-20-0977 (Keane Schmitz Landbay D, LLC), and are located in the southwest quadrant of the intersection of Battlefield Parkway and Miller Drive. Rezoning/Proffer Amendment Application TLZM-2018-0001 is a request by Oaklawn Development Partners, LLC and Keane Schmitz Land Bay D, LLC to amend the current concept plan and proffers of TLZM-2014-0004 and TLZM-2005-0002 to permit an increase of auxiliary uses within Land Bay D (Land Bay D North) to include an additional 10,000 square feet of restaurant use comprised of two 5,000 square-foot fast food restaurants each with a drive-through window. The current auxiliary uses for the site are limited to one 4,000 square foot fast food restaurant and a service station with a 5,000 square foot convenience store and car wash. The Town Plan designates this property as “Community Office/Light Industrial” on the Land Use Policy Map and allows primary uses such as office and emerging technologies, as well as retail and services for the employment uses such as restaurants, retail and service uses, with a recommended density of .60 FAR (Floor Area Ratio). The proposal will result in an FAR for Land Bay D North of 0.06. Special Exception Application TLSE-2018-0001 is a request by Oaklawn Development partners, LLC and Keane Schmitz Land Bay D, LLC to permit two drive-through restaurants on Land Bay D (in proposed “Land Bay D North”), subject to the approval of TLZM-2018-0001 referenced above, as well as criteria of Section 3.4.12 of the Zoning Ordinance. Additional information and copies of these applications are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Scott E. Parker, Senior Planning Project Manager, at 703-771-2771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov. At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Clerk of the Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.:

TOWN OF LEESBURG

CL117476

Loudoun County Circuit Court 18 East Market St., Leesburg, VA 20176 Kelly Jean Wilson /v. Joseph Bernard Wilson The object of this suit is to:

is for the Plaintiff, KELLY JEAN WILSON, to obtain a divorce a vinculo matrimonii from the Defendant, JOSEPH BERNARD WILSON, on the grounds of the parties having lived separate and apart without cohabitation and without interruption for a period of time in excess of one (1) year. IT APPEARING by Affidavit that the Plaintiff has used due diligence to ascertain the whereabouts of the Defendant without effect, and therefore,

ABC LICENSE Tipicos Gloria Inc., trading as Tipicos Dona Gloria Restaurant, 317 Enterprise St., Sterling, Loudoun VA 20164-3282 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Mixed Beverage Restaurant license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Defendant appear before this Court on or before the 1st day of February, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. and protect his interests herein.

Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

11/29/18, 12/6/18, 12/13/18, & 12/20/18

12/13/18 & 12/20/18

12/20/18 & 12/27/18

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.: CL117989 Loudoun County Circuit Court. 18 East Market St., Leesburg, VA 20176 Jannyna Isabel Aleman /v. Luis Ernesto Aleman Npezen The object of this suit is to: DIVORCE. IT IS ORDERED that Luis Ernesto Aleman Npezen appear before the above-named court and protect his/her interests on or before February 1, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. 12/6/18, 12/13/18, 12/20/18, & 12/27/18

Legal Notices

The Town of Leesburg Boards and Commissions The Town of Leesburg is soliciting resumes and letters of interest for vacancies on the Town’s Boards and Commissions.

TOWN OF LEESBURG ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

Town Boards and Commissions:

TUSCARORA CREEK STREAM RESTORATION AND FLOOD MITIGATION IFB NO. 06306-FY19-23

SEALED BIDS to construct the above project WILL BE RECEIVED by the Office of Capital Projects for the Town of Leesburg, either by mail or hand delivered to the First Floor Lobby Receptionist, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176. Bids shall be marked “Sealed Bid for Tuscarora Creek Stream Restoration and Flood Mitigation Bid Date –Tuesday, January 29, 2019 – 3:30 P.M.” Bids will be opened and read aloud at 25 West Market Street, Lower Level Conference Room 2, at that date and time. All questions regarding this bid must be submitted in writing via email to CapitalBidQuestions@leesburgva.gov until but no later than 5:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 17, 2019. The work included in this project includes stream restoration, constructed wetlands, wall construction, clearing, excavation, storm drainage, sanitary sewer, grading and miscellaneous site work, and all incidentals related thereto. The Town reserves the right to perform all, part, or none of the work. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at Leesburg Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia. Bid Documents are available for download from the Town’s Bid Board at http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard and may be obtained beginning Thursday, December 13, 2018. Contact Cindy Steyer at 703-737-2302 or csteyer@ leesburgva.gov with questions about obtaining these bid documents. Any addenda issued for this project will be posted on the Town’s Bid Board and eVA (https://eva.virginia.gov). Tom Brandon, Manager Office of Capital Projects

• Airport Commission (meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. -Leesburg Executive Airport) • Board of Architectural Review (meets the first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Thomas Balch Library Commission (meets the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Thomas Balch Library) • Commission on Public Art (meets the first Monday of the month at 5:45 p.m.-Town Hall) • Diversity Commission (meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Economic Development Commission (meets first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Environmental Advisory Commission (meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Parks and Recreation Commission (meets the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.-Ida Lee Park Rec. Center) • Planning Commission (meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Technology and Communication Commission (meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Tree Commission (meets third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) • Standing Residential Traffic Committee (meets first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.-Town Hall) Additional information is available by contacting Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council, during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-771-2733 or eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or on the Town of Leesburg website at www.leesburgva.gov. Please submit your letter of interest and professional resume addressed to the Clerk of Council for Town Council consideration. All materials should either be delivered to the Town’s official address at Town of Leesburg, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 or emailed to the Clerk of Council at clerk@leesburgva.gov. 12/20/2018 & 12/27/2018

12/20/18 & 12/27/18

[OBITUARIES] Michelle Clare Kreuch Michelle Clare Kreuch was born on March 30, 1966 and passed away on Friday, October 26, 2018, at the age of 52 after fighting a courageous battle against Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Michelle lived an amazing life, was loved by many and was a 13-year resident of Purcellville at the time of her passing. Michelle was known by her friends, co-workers, customers, and especially by her family for her sweet English accent, beaming bright eyes, giving personality and smile that made strangers feel like family. Michelle was the daughter of Ingrid Cersovsky and David John Clare of Surrey, England. She was born in Caterham, Surrey, England on a Wednesday, March 30, 1966; a day that could only be described as one of the most cheerful, sunny days to ever grace the United Kingdom! Michelle was an artistic soul. She graduated from the Epsom School of Art and Design with a degree in fashion in 1984 and continued to pursue her artistic inter-

ests through photography, sketching and later her successful custom cake business, Peace of Cake, of which her cake creations were the centerpiece of her customers events. Michelle possessed a strong desire for a new adventure. In 1992, at the age of 26, she left England and moved to the United States, settling in Los Angeles and working in the entertainment business for Ron Wolfson Photography as the Assistant Photographer at the Golden Globes event and Edwards Entertainment, a startup movie production company in Beverly Hills. Michelle met Matthew Paul Kreuch in 1994 in a chance encounter on LA’s Sunset Boulevard. It was love at first sight! In 1995, the couple relocated to Darien, CT where Michelle worked for the British Information Services as the Head of BIS Registry for the British Consulate in New York City. She was honored to be chosen by the BIS to photograph Prince Charles with the Sultan of Brunei on their diplomatic trip to New York. Michelle and Matthew were married in June of 1997 at the Church of

St. Peter and St. Paul’s, Chaldon, in Caterham, England in what has been described as the Great American Invasion. To the Bang! Michelle is survived by her husband of 21 years, her son Alex who made her laugh for 18 incredible years and her daughter Haley (17) who is a spitting image of her mom and carries on her mother’s legacy of kindness, always putting the needs of others ahead of her own. Michelle is also survived by her father, David, and her two elder sisters, Jacqueline and Gisela (Paul). Family was immensely important to Michelle as evidenced by her tremendous bond with her in-law’s, Eleanor Kreuch (Paul pre deceased), Mitchell and Alison Kreuch, Steven Kreuch and Maria Spinella, and with her uncle-in-law, Herman Goodyear and his husband Jeffrey Trunzo and Michelle’s eleven nieces and nephews: Daniel Webber, Georgie Kitson, Luke Webber, Charlie Webber, Sydney Webber, Lauren Webber, Peter Kreuch, Steven Kreuch, Thomas Kreuch and Samson and Stella Kreuch. In 2006, Michelle and Matthew relocated to Purcellville, VA where they have lived for 13 magnificent years.

Michelle rejoined the workforce in 2015 when she obtained her VA Realtor license and joined the Long and Foster, Leesburg team. She excelled in her new job achieving Presidents Club by 2016. Michelle prided herself on delivering exceptional service to her customers and loved her coworkers. Michelle had a passion for all animals and leaves behind her 3 beloved dogs, Hudson, Holden and Danger who miss her dearly. She also had a passion for warm places and in particular Holden Beach, NC, where she spent 13 summers with family and friends. Michelle led a happy and full life, making the most out of all her experiences. The funeral service for Michelle Clare Kreuch will be held on December 28th at 2:00 pm at St. James’ Episcopal Church, 14 Cornwall Street NW, Leesburg, VA. Those in attendance are encouraged to wear something colorful as a representation for Michelle’s cheerful life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kreuch Family Education Trust via https://www.gofundme.com/ michelle-kreuch-memorial-education-trust

Public Notice — Vacancies

Employment

[OBITUARIES]

December 20, 2018

CO-WORKING SPACE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LEESBURG LOOKING FOR A 360-DEGREE MANAGER Looking for the right proven Manager to both market, manage and evolve a new, fully renovated, co-working concept in Downtown Historic Leesburg, VA. Currently, our 3,000 square foot, single floor space with elevator access, is comprised of ten, individual Office Suites (large enough for two individuals), a large Conference Room, Communal Area, Kitchenette and two en-suite Bathrooms.

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Frank A. Watkins Frank Alexander Watkins, 96, of Leesburg, VA, passed away December 11, 2018, at the Sandy Springs Veterans Rehabilitation in Luray Virginia. Frank was born January 5, 1922, in Leesburg, VA. Son of Mary Magdalene Watkins, who died when Frank was 10. He was raised by his grandmother, Lucy Ann Watkins, and Aunt, Cleo Watkins Ford, both deceased. Frank served in the Army in the South Pacific in World War II and was honorably discharged a Sergeant in 1946 with a good conduct medal; Philippines Liberation Medal with Bronze; Asiatic Pacific Medal, with Bronze Star. After being discharged from the Army, Frank began working in construction in the Metro area of Washington D.C., which he did for 40 years. In 1973, Frank decided to finish his education. First, he went to Fairfax to study for his G.E.D. After that he went to Frederick, Maryland and Northern Virginia Community College to study Real Estate Sales, was licensed in 1976, and still had an active license. He was also a Notary of Virginia. Frank leaves his wife Lou Etta Watkins, whom he was married to for fifty years as of November 29 this year; his son Gregory M. Watkins; step children, Mildred and Julie Lane; three grandchildren; one first cousin, Jean Jackson; and many other relatives and friends. Funeral Services were held Tuesday, December 18, 2018. Visitation took place from 12:00 noon, until time of the service at 1:00 p.m., at the Mt. Olive Baptist Church of Rectortown, 2932 Atoka Road, Rectortown, VA 20140. Interment followed at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA. Arrangements by: LYLES FUNERAL SERVICE, Serving N. Virginia. Eric S. Lyles, Director. Lic. VA/MD/DC. 800-388-1913.

Wilbur William Whiting Wilbur William Whiting, 82, departed this life peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2018 at his home in Paeonian Springs, VA, accompanied by his loving wife and best friend of 49 years, Gwendolyn Marie Whiting. He was born in Loudoun County, VA on Nov. 4, 1936. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his devoted wife, Gwendolyn Marie Whiting; daughter, Joyce Davis, of Martinsburg, WV; son, Dante A. Coleman (Shantelle), of Maryland; and a host of brothers, sisters, grandchildren, and other relatives and friends. Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018. Visitation took place from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service at 11:00 a.m. at the Providence Baptist Church, 205 Church Street, SE, Leesburg, VA 20175. Interment to take place at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Hamilton, VA. Arrangements by LYLES FUNERAL SERVICE, Serving N. Virginia. Eric S. Lyles, Director. Lic. VA/MD/DC. 800388-1913.

We are looking for the right, proven individual to evolve our Space from flexible workspaces for individual members into full suite operations solution to offer a wider range of multi-tiered Memberships, leveraging economies of scale to deliver exceptional custom designed spaces and services for clients of all shapes and sizes.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The role of the Manager we seek is to lead visioning, discovery, workplace strategy and change management activities, to bring its full co-workplace strategy scope to fruition – sourcing and connecting multiple Members, ensuring seamless delivery of change management and exceptional service full circle. This shall include the ability to manage and oversee strategy for specific projects, surfacing objectives for design, community/experience and technology requirements, as well as key planning concepts, aligning with Member goals.

SKILLS REQUIRED: • Hands-on knowledge and experience delivering best-in-class corporate workplace programs and the impact of co-working service trends; • An organized and analytical mind, with exception foresight; • Proven member/client relationship management; • Experience leading Members through change management – understanding, shaping and reframing beliefs while finding creative ways to engage Members and the Community in the process; • Recognized industry expert in workplace strategy, with demonstrated skill in being an engaging (verbal and written) communicator, facilitator, storyteller and public speaker; • Successful team collaborating, clear communication, prudent risk-assessment, and effective motivator; and • Ability to consistently be thinking outside the box, exploring new ways to execute projects, with a committed to continuous improvement and optimization of productivity.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) from 4-year College or University. • Minimum of 3 years management experience, with directly related experience in the delivery of workplace strategic planning services, workplace experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Contact: Joshua Cagney (571) 758-8642 • Joshua.Cagney@gmail.com

Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA. Regular Full-Time Positions Position

Department

Salary Range

Closing Date

Airport Operations & Maintenance Specialist

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Certified Police Officer (VA DCJS)

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Deputy Director of Public Works & Capital Projects

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Parking Garage Attendant/Cashier

Finance

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Flexible Part-Time Positions

To Include Your House of Worship Email: classifieds@ loudounnow.com Phone: 703-770-9723

To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs. Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications. All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35.

Employment

Reso 37

Job Description: • Be able to repair or replace worn parts and systems such as spark plugs, wheel bearings, brakes, fuel systems, sensors, timing belts, etc. • Test systems and individual parts to ensure proper working and/or evaluate degree of damage. • Identify mechanical and electrical problems with computerized diagnostic equipment. • Must have your own tools. • Great payment - according to experience.

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SEEKING HAIR STYLIST FT/PT Salon hair & nail stations for rent

Ashburn, VA Call 703-909-4300 Busy family practice in Lansdowne, VA seeking a full time LPN or MA. Pediatric and or family practice experience preferred. EHR experience highly recommended. We offer health, dental and vision insurance as well as direct deposit, 401k and many other benefits. Please send your resume to lgray@lmgdoctors.com or fax to 703-726-0804, attention Lisa.

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Commercial Real Estate Rental A new owner of several prime retail locations on Washington Street in downtown Middleburg, Virginia seeks to lease to an established boutique coffee shop, natural food retailer, wine shop or similar specialty store interested in expanding or relocating. Call Matt or Jodi at 540-687-9775 to discuss what we have to offer.

RETAIL STORE FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN LEESBURG Excellent location for restaurant, brewery, winery or jewelry store. Please call 703-505-7585 or 703-777-5000

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[ OPINION ]

December 20, 2018

Addressing the Crisis Plans to reestablish a drug court in Loudoun County took a leap forward last week as a key Board of Supervisors’ committee lent its unanimous—perhaps even enthusiastic—support to a plan to not only relaunch that high-intensity diversionary program, but also expand it. When county supervisors voted to shutter the program six years ago, the public—and law enforcement—perception of addictionrelated crimes was quite different than today. Marijuana wasn’t widely viewed as having medical benefits and legalization remained a fringe political view. Heroin had not yet supplanted prescription opioid painkillers as a cheaper and more readily available high. And potent synthetics like fentanyl and carfentanil had not yet hit the street to escalate the fatal consequences of street drug use. Most people hadn’t had first-hand contact with someone whose life had been derailed by drug dependence. Loudoun’s judges—then and now—witness the growing epidemic from the front lines. Their continued advocacy for a program that provides non-violent offenders opportunities to reclaim their lives helped set a new path that isn’t just more compassionate, it also can be more practical by reducing crime as well as avoiding the costs of repeat incarcerations. In recent years, county supervisors, legislators and other elected representatives have pressed to do more to address the addiction epidemic. Loudoun has been on the cutting edge of many of these efforts. This tool hasn’t been used. More than 40 Virginia jurisdictions already operate drug courts with the goals of reducing drug addiction and drug dependency among offenders; reducing recidivism; reducing drug-related court workloads; increasing accountability among offenders; and promoting a more effective use of resources in the commonwealth’s criminal justice system and community agencies. With the support of a substantial financial grant to get the drug court up and running, there is no reason Loudoun shouldn’t pursue those goals as well. A drug court is only one element in the community’s effort to fight the devastating impacts of addiction. Initiatives of Loudoun’s law enforcement agencies, medical community, social service organizations all make contributions. Efforts to expand available and affordable treatment options must continue. Perhaps one thing that has changed the most since Loudoun’s drug court adjourned in 2012 is the realization that substance abuse isn’t simply a character flaw to be punished, but a community crisis that must be addressed.

Crying Uncle

[ LETTERS ]

Editor: Ms. Pien (Letters, Dec. 13) wants Gov. Northam to join climate change concerns by banning pipelines. He shouldn’t. The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is a political body crying “uncle” again. Ms. Pien wrote, “we have 12 short years to take bold, unprecedented steps to stop greenhouse gas emissions.” Such steps would wreck our economy for little, if any, benefit. Why am I and many others disbelieving the hysteria? One of the best explanations is from Steve Goreham, whose lecture, “Climate Science and the Myths of Renewable Energy—FOS,” is on YouTube. It is 45 minutes long and worth every minute. Students, especially, need to compare his analysis with what they are learning in school. Our economic future depends on informed voters learning both sides of an issue. — Rose Ellen Ray, Leesburg

Refreshing

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 Margaret Morton Senior Writer mmorton@loudounnow.com Renss Greene, Reporter rgreene@loudounnow.com

Kara C. Rodriguez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Patrick Szabo, Reporter pszabo@loudounnow.com Jan Mercker, Reporter jmerker@loudounnow.com Douglas Graham, Photographer dgraham@loudounnow.com

Advertising Director Susan Styer sstyer@loudounnow.com Display Advertising Tonya Harding tharding@loudounnow.com Display Advertising Pam Stamper pstamper@loudounnow.com Classified Advertising Ashley Fertig afertig@loudounnow.com

Editor: I would like to thank you for the Dec. 13 article regarding the People’ Constitution by Ben Lenhart. It was very informative and it’s so refreshing to read about our government system without everything being so contentious. There was a similar article awhile back about how the USA is a republic and not a democracy which I also found very clear and understandable. — Julia Graves, Leesburg

A Church Home Editor: Are you looking for a new church home? With Christmas almost here, do you have a church you’re looking forward to attending on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? When it comes to my faith, which is very important to me, I want a church with no strings attached, no barriers between God and myself, no discrimina-

tion on the basis of race, gender, etc.—a truly inclusive church that is welcoming to everyone I have found all that and more at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church. When I walked into my first service, Father Daniel Velez-Rivera immediately made me feel like family. I was overwhelmed with everyone’s friendliness and with Father Daniel’s spontaneity and humor, even during the liturgy. Having been raised Catholic, the Episcopal liturgy, which is very similar, was therefore familiar to me. The main difference was that at communion time, Father Daniel announced that since the communion table belonged to Jesus—not to him or to any of us—everyone was invited to participate. How refreshing those words were to my ears. On Christmas Eve, St. Gabriel’s is having a festive 5:45 p.m. family service at Belmont Ridge Middle School on the eastern edge of Leesburg. Music and singing will begin at 5 p.m. and promises to get everyone into the Christmas spirit! Come celebrate Christ’s birth with us. You’ll be joyfully welcomed just as you are, no matter where you are on your faith journey—or even if you haven’t started one yet. For further information and directions, go to saintgabriels.net. — Bobbie Wilkinson, Hamilton

Share Your Views Loudoun Now welcomes letters to the editor. Letters should include the name, address and phone number of the writer and should be a maximum of 500 words. Letters may be sent by email to letters@loudounnow. com or by mail to PO Box 207, Leesburg, VA 20178.

PARENTING WITH PURPOSE

here is a hidden gem for high school students in Loudoun County, and it is one of the most misunderstood programs in the area. Presently named the Douglass School, it is in the process of enhancing a great program in a new location. In the past year, the Monroe Technical Academy has moved from the Leesburg location to join with the Academies of Loudoun. Soon, design and construction will begin on the Childrens Center Road site with a planned opening of fall 2021. This new location will be the center for many programs, including the alternative school and the adult education center. Since the name Douglass School is attached to the historic building where the program presently resides, the school board decided to seek a new name for the school. I was asked to serve on the naming committee. I believe that creating a new name for this school is an opportunity to share a bit about the great work that happens at the alternative school. I have had the opportunity to work with the students and staff throughout the years and can attest to their great work. The alternative school’s main mission is just that: An alternative school.

Many high school students, for a variety of reasons, have found it very difficult to succeed in their neighborhood school. Douglass School gives students the compassionate, individualized attention that many of them need to succeed. Here are some remarks from former students about the impact of Douglass school: “This school saved my life in more ways I can even express. It’s rare find such a hotspot of teachers who truly care about their students and go way above the pay and job description. Would love to be able to give back one of these days!” “The teachers really care about your success and happiness! Some of my best memories took place at Douglass, and even though I arrived there on not the greatest of terms, I left as a better person. All you need is one person to believe in you, and Douglass will always be that support net.”

My experiences have been the same as these students. I have seen it help students learn how to succeed when they have been dealing with failure after failure. I have seen students that went from hating school to actually looking forward to it. When I was asked to serve on the naming committee, I jumped at the opportunity. More than 100 names were submitted for consideration. During our deliberations, one name became the consensus pick: The North Star School. Frederick Douglass and Dr. Martin Delany 171 years ago started The North Star as the leading abolitionist newspaper of the day. The name of the newspaper paid homage to the fact that escaping slaves used the North Star in the night sky to guide them to freedom. The naming committee endorsed this name for the school for reasons including the symbolism of the north compass as well as the pro-

BIGSALE L A S T BIG % 40

grams to be offered to future students which will enable them to “find their way” as well as allowing students to “find a path for success.” Our goal as a committee was to take with us something of Frederick Douglass’ history while also focusing on the main mission of the schools that will be housed at the new location. I believe The North Star School does exactly that. This name also allows for the beginning of a “re-branding” of the alternative programs in Loudoun County. I am hopeful that this renaming will help county residents understand the amazing work that happens at the alternative school for kids who might be dealing with multiple issues and need an alternative environment to succeed. The school board will consider the recommended name during their Feb.12, 2019 meeting. It is my hope that this naming process will continue to highlight the need for alternative education programs for our Loudoun students. Neil McNerney is a licensed professional counselor and author of Homework – A Parent’s Guide To Helping Out Without Freaking Out! and The Don’t Freak Out Guide for Parenting Kids with Asperger’s.

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BY NEIL MCNERNEY

December 20, 2018

The Renaming of Loudoun’s Alternative School

December 20, 2018

Judges << FROM 3 pushed state lawmakers to oppose that appointment until the local bar has a chance to run local candidates through the usual vetting process. The Loudoun Bar’s Judicial Qualifications Evaluation Committee was scheduled to interview candidates Tuesday, Dec. 18, according to committee Chairwoman Rhonda Paice. The Bar is scheduled to meet Jan. 9 to vote on its recommendations. Loudoun Bar Association President Josh Steward said he was “concerned that Loudoun County seems to have been pushed out of the process.” “That ultimately is going to be a judge that sits right over there,” he said, gesturing across King Street toward the Loudoun County courts complex, “who’s going to be doling out justice for the citizens of Loudoun County.” Attorney Tom Plofchan said the process is not transparent, and encouraged state lawmakers not to “engage in any backdoor dealing.” “Not everyone the Bar recommends gets the first nod, we accept that,” Plofchan said. “However, there needs to be transparency, because this is Amer-

Schools budget << FROM 3 tax rate is worth $8.6 million in county revenues. The current real estate tax rate is $1.085 per $100 of assessed value; next year’s equalized rate is currently estimated to be 3.3 cents lower, or $1.05. “The purpose of the plus and minus is not the end result,” said finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles). “It’s to see what staff ’s recommendations are for what they

Drug court << FROM 1 “I was more hoping that we could fix it without ending it,” said finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles), who was among the minority who voted to keep the previous program open. “We’ve had a long gap without having it. I think we could have used it over the last several years, but nevertheless I’m glad that we’ve taken this step.” Freeman said a study of the 94 people who took part in the county’s previous drug court saw only 19 percent of them wind up back in the court system, as opposed to 49 percent of people not in the program. “That’s really dramatic,” Freeman said. “That’s not just a couple of points. That’s huge, and that study encompassed over ten years.” And he said that lines up with research on drug courts across the country, which he said has shown they reduce recidivism “dramatically compared to business as usual.” “Many years of research in corrections, and the kind of populations and how the system deals with them and

Renss Greene/Loudoun Now

Leesburg attorney and judge candidate Lorrie Sinclair at a public hearing with state lawmakers Monday, Dec. 17.

ica. There needs to be respect for the citizens, because they take their time and they make a concerted effort to do what’s best for us.” Paice said the Bar is moving quickly to get state lawmakers their recommendation before the next General Assembly session begins. Some Loudouners already have a particular local candidate in mind. Commonwealth’s Attor-

ney Jim Plowman introduced Morgan to lawmakers. And several speakers pushed to appoint Sinclair, who would be the first black judge on the Loudoun bench if selected. “How is it that we expect justice when there’s cultural incompetence on the bench?” said Pastor Michelle Thomas, the incoming president of the Loudoun County NAACP. “We must

would cut if they could cut something, or what they would add if they could add something,” giving supervisors guidance as they add or take expenses out of the county budget. The committee was split on that guidance, voting 3-2, with Randall and Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) opposed. “Were this my first year on this board, I would support this with no trouble, but because for the past two years we’ve gone under the equalized tax rate—so it’s not like I don’t have some experience to pull from of what our full body tends to do, and how that

looks,” Randall said. Early projections indicate Superintendent Eric Williams could be requesting as much as $116 million more next fiscal year. That’s above and beyond the current fiscal year’s $1.189 billion operating budget. The spending plan Williams has drafted for the school system will not be unveiled until Jan. 8, but he has told the School Board it may require as much as $34.6 million just to cover the costs of enrollment growth, which planners predict will increase by almost 2,000 students by fall of 2019. The superintendent also expects to

addresses them, has shifted over the years from crime-and-punishment to risks-and-needs, and they’ve done a lot of research on creating instruments to help us determine a person’s risks and needs,” Freeman said. Plowman said the objective for the justice system has always been to set people on a different path. “I’d love nothing more than for people that come into the courts system, to never see them return, and that’s the goal is to give people opportunities so that they can change their behavior and redirect their behavior,” Plowman said. But he said the justice system’s handling of substance abuse has changed, in part because of the substances involved. “I think maybe what we’re seeing lately that has reinvigorated this discussion is the number of fatalities, because the drugs that we’re seeing people abuse now are more lethal than in years past,” Plowman said. Supervisors and other county leaders discussed reestablishing a drug court in 2016, but those conversations were cut short when in 2017 the General Assembly stripped funding for a judgeship from Loudoun’s already-overtaxed Circuit Court. Drug

“This is a tacit recognition that substance abuse is not a character flaw. It is a clinical condition.” — County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall court can be very time-intensive for judges. But with the decision in May to restore funding to every judgeship in the state, the conversations around a drug court saw renewed life. The Drug Court Advisory Committee established in February includes members from a number of legal, community services and law enforcement agencies, and has guided that work. It also recommended some changes in the qualifications for taking part in the new drug court over the old one, slightly relaxing some requirements. For example, previously, defendants could only enter the program after being convicted of a non-violent felony drug offense, put on supervised probation, and violating that probation. In

change that.” After years of lobbying by the local delegation, the General Assembly in 2015 approved a fifth 20thCircuit judgeship—a fourth in Loudoun—to help the circuit handle its mounting caseload. However, it has been working shorthanded for the past two years. The vacancy was created when Judge Burke F. McCahill retired late in 2016. Leesburg attorney Alex N. Levay had been poised to take that seat, having won the endorsement by the Loudoun Bar Association and ruled as qualified by the General Assembly in 2017. But rather than fill the seat, the Assembly stripped funding for the judgeship, leaving it empty. The seat remained authorized but unfunded until May of this year, when the state legislature passed a budget that funded every judgeship in the state, effective July 1. For the past two years, Levay remained the likely candidate join the bench. However, he withdrew his name from consideration last month because of family matters that will require more of his time. After receiving Levay’s notice, the Loudoun Bar put out a call to solicit interest from other candidates. rgreene@loudounnow.com

ask for more than $6 million to staff two new schools; almost $30 million to adjust the teachers’ salary scale; another $21 million to provide eligible employees an annual raise to average 2.4 percent; about $7 million for increased health care costs; and another $17.8 million for other compensation increases. Williams has also given the board a heads up that his proposed budget could include an increase of $6.3 million for textbooks, digital learning resources, and instructional and technology enhancements. rgreene@loudounnow.com the new program, they can also be admitted through their initial pleas and sentencing agreements. Supervisors have previously said they hope the relaxed requirements will redirect more people into the program instead of to jail. “One, it saves money, but two, it keeps families together and it keeps people in the community, and you want to have all those things,” said County Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large), whose professional career has been in corrections and substance abuse. The full board is expected to take up the drug court question at its Jan. 2 meeting. Because the drug court is addressed as a mid-fiscal-year budget adjustment, if supervisors approve the program, staff members can then begin assembling the program immediately, rather than waiting for the new fiscal year in July. “This is a tacit recognition that substance abuse is not a character flaw,” Randall said. “It is a clinical condition, and we should treat it like a clinical condition, and this gets us closer to doing that.” rgreene@loudounnow.com

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