Morning Notes

FCPD Reports Increase in Hate Crimes — “County police have documented 77 crimes and incidents motivated by racism, anti-Semitism, homophobia, and other kinds of bias in 2018 so far. With one month remaining in the year, Fairfax County seems to be on pace to end 2018 roughly in line with 2017, which saw 87 hate crimes and incidents, a two-thirds increase from 2016.” [Fairfax Times]

Fairfax Flags at Half-Mast for Bush — “The U. S., Virginia and Fairfax County flags are lowered in respect and memory of President George H.W. Bush. The flags will remain at half-staff until sunset 30 days from the day of his death on Nov. 30.” [Twitter]

Candle Caution Urged for Hanukkah Celebrations — “While the use of open-flame candles can add ambiance to a holiday and provide ‘warmth’ to a home, battery-powered candles are a safer alternative and one our firefighters and paramedics highly recommend you use.” [Fairfax County Fire & Rescue]

Santa Snapper Sells Spiffy Shoes — Andrea Smith’s current job is taking photos of children with Santa Claus at the Tysons Corner Center mall, but her passion is beautifying old and unwanted sneakers and boots. [Washington Post]

High Student Debt Hurts Regional Home Sales — “Prospective buyers in the local region could afford to purchase 71 percent of homes in the market if they do not carry student debt, but only 62 percent if they carry an average level of debt.” [InsideNova]