Good morning, Leesburg.

Raising Cane’s is exploring plans to build a restaurant at the former TGI Friday’s site next to Leesburg Premium Outlets; the project awaits town entitlements + approval and will open in 2028 if approved.

The chain, with over 900 locations, provided the update from headquarters.

Tuesday, the Loudoun County School Board approved a new policy that codifies its existing practices for managing the trust fund supporting retiree healthcare benefits (a proposed amendment to add a budget line item tied in a 4-4 vote failed) and confirmed the fund remains well-funded.

The Loudoun County School Board approved a renewal contract for the 2027-28 school year (affording about 400 students continued enrollment at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology) while tuition per student rises to $23,495 and annual transportation costs near $900,000.

Loudoun Now is hosting its second annual Excellence in High School Journalism Awards on Wednesday, May 20 at 6 p.m. at Loudoun County High School in Leesburg, where winners will receive a $500 donation plus a summer internship.

The Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy opened JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary to county students for field trips this week.

The 89-acre site (near Lucketts) hosted almost 40 students learning about wetlands and vernal pools thanks to a Microsoft grant, with more visits planned for the fall.

Goose Creek Association joined Loudoun Now Voice with the launch of The Green Loudoun Podcast, a monthly series exploring local conservation, land use, and environmental stewardship.

The podcast (hosted by Alyson Borowczyk) will highlight efforts to protect waterways, open spaces, and sustainable agriculture across the county.

Mental Health America's report ranks Virginia 32nd out of 51 for youth mental health, showing teens face high social media pressure and reduced preventive visits - LifeStance Health advises parents to watch for signs like irritability and exhaustion in their children.

Root to Table: Field & Flame

5:30 p.m. — Riverside on the Potomac — Price TBA — Experience a unique culinary adventure with celebrated chefs and explore local farms.

Comedy Night in Leesburg

10 AM – 10 PM — Tally Ho Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with local comedic talents including Joey Friedman and Rahmein Mostafavi.