WillowsfordLife Fall 2018
FARM STAND
OPEN
2 - 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday
May 1 - November 20 23595 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148
ALWAYS LOCAL, IN SEASON & ON SHELVES Vegetables, fruit, herbs, free-range eggs, milk, butter, yogurt and ice cream. Goat’s and cow’s milk cheeses. Sauerkrauts, pickles and relish. Kombucha, granola and popsicles. Beef, lamb, pork and chicken. Flowers and coffee. Prepared foods. Seasonal fruit spread, ketchup and sauces. If we don’t grow or raise it here, we work with local producers and artisans who operate with the same principles and standards for their animals, the earth, and the quality of their products as we do. If we don’t grow or raise it here, we work with local producers and artisans who operate with the same principles and standards for their animals, the earth, and the quality of their products as we do.
Connecting people to the land, to their food and to each other. check WillowsfordFarm.com for upcoming Farm events
The Hometown Pros Willowsford Homeowners Trust
Call us (703) 327-1636
No More Boring Backyard “Rock Water Farm far exceeded my expectations in every way. The project is flawless and I recommend them to everyone!� Scott Ramsey, Willowsford Homeowner
Family memories, laughter with friends, and relaxing evenings start here.
Over 60 5-star reviews on Google
See recent Willowsford projects at RockWaterFarm.com/local
Manager’sLetter
Manager’s Letter A Note from Willowsford Lane
by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA, AMS, PCAM HOA Community Manager For many of us, residents and staff alike, fall is the most stunning season at Willowsford. The leaves are beginning to take on golden, amber, and scarlet hues, creating a magnificent backdrop. To us though, fall means AutumnFest. If you haven’t attended this annual Signature Event before, you’re in for a treat! Join us at The Lodge on October 20th for delicious food, great
music, family activities, pumpkin painting, a gourmet caramel apple station, and more. In this issue you’ll learn more about our Community Clubs—several of which are newly added this year. Give back to the community through Willowsford Cares, perfect your aim with the Archery Club, or connect with car enthusiasts by way of Willowsford Wheels. If you haven’t yet joined a Community Club, come see what all the fuss is about. Please visit WillowsfordLife.com to view the calendar of upcoming events, activities, and meetings. Speaking of meetings, the Willowsford Development Team is hosting the next Community Update Meeting on October 16th at 6:30 PM at The Lodge. Consider attending to hear all about their recent progress on projects and improvements for the community. In addition, the next HOA Board Meeting is scheduled for November 8th at 6 PM at Sycamore House. The 2019 Draft Budget will be on the agenda and it’s a great opportunity for residents to learn more about the process. As we head into the holidays, the Willowsford Team wishes you and your family a safe and joyful season!
WillowsfordLife Vol. 1, No. 4: Fall 2018 Copyright 2018 © Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. WillowsfordLife is a quarterly publication of Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc., 23506 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. reserves the right to reject or edit any articles or other content submitted to it for publishing. Any opinions expressed by the authors of articles or other content published herein are the opinions of such author and in no way, represent the opinion of Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. reserves the right to reject advertising determined to not be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by WillowsfordLife does not constitute an endorsement of products or services advertised herein. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. does not take responsibility for and does not undertake effort to validate any representations by advertisers. Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, and are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication is expressly prohibited. Liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. Printed in the USA.
4
WillowsfordLife
WillowsfordContacts SycamoreHouse
TheLodge
23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148
41085 Willowsford Lane Aldie, VA 20105
(571) 297-2586
(571) 297-2584
Monday
9 AM - 5 PM
Monday
CLOSED
Tuesday-Friday
9 AM - 9 PM
Tuesday-Friday
9 AM - 9 PM
Saturday
11 AM - 6 PM
Saturday
11 AM - 6 PM
Sunday
11 AM - 4 PM
Sunday
11 AM - 4 PM
WillowsfordContacts
ImportantContacts
HOA@willowsford.com HOA Questions, Comments & Concerns
LCSO Non-Emergency – (703) 777-1021
DRC@willowsfordlife.com Exterior Modification Applications lifestyle@willowsford.com Lifestyle Programming & Amenity Rentals questions@willowsford.com Willowsford Development Team info@willowsfordconservancy.org Conservancy, Trails & Campsites farm@willowsfordfarm.com Willowsford Farm Team market@willowsfordfarm.com Farm Stand & CSA Program
Fall2018
LCSO Emergency – Dial 911 Animal Control – (703) 777-0406 Republic Services – HOA.NOVA@republicservices.com Trash – Tuesday & Friday Recycling – Tuesday Yard Waste – Wednesday NOVEC Electric – (703) 335-0500 Washington Gas – (703) 750-1000 Loudoun County Sanitation Authority – (571) 291-7880 Verizon Fios Phone & Cable – (800) 837-4966 Verizon Fios Internet – (800) 438-3467 SFMC, Inc. – (703) 392-6006
5
9
26
23 24
29
13
11
14
18
6 17
WillowsfordLife
32
Fall 2018 9
11
13
14
17
18
Land Conservation
Fall Events with the Conservancy
Welcome to Willowsford
What to See, Where to Go, When to Do
Paws & Claws
23
24
26
29
32
The Art Gallery
Farm Stand Changing Hands
Community Clubs
Saplings, Seedlings & Shrubs
Summer Roundup
Meet the Archers
Fall2018
7
UNLOCK YOUR F INANCIAL F UTURE
Helping You Understand Your Options
• Financial Planning
The retirement landscape can be confusing as you
• Long Term Care
approach key decisions about your retirement.
• Medicare Consultation
Our Financial Services Division brings exceptional insights to this topic and provides a clear understanding of the options available.
FINANCIAL
• Estate Planning
• Key Man Life Insurance • Business Valuations BUSINESS • Business Succession Planning
Allow our team to help guide you into securing and
• Buy/Sell Agreements
Unlocking Your Financial Future.
• Cyber Liability & Data Breach • Group Benefits PERSONAL • Personal Umbrella • Valuables/Collectibles
703 - 471- 0050 w w w.g r i f f i nowen s .c om
• Personal Injury (Libel & Slander) • Identity Fraud
WillowsfordConservancy
Land Conservation 2018-2019 Deer Management Program by Iris Gestram Conservancy Executive Director
Why Manage Deer? In its third year, the Conservancy’s Deer Management Program continues to help reduce deer overgrazing by these large, voracious herbivores, and support regeneration of our native habitats, particularly Willowsford’s hardwood forests. Overgrazing by deer prevents regrowth of trees and native plants that provide vital food and shelter for birds, amphibians, small mammals and insects, thus severely impacting our habitats and wildlife. Willowsford Conservancy works closely with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, the agency that monitors and manages Virginia’s deer population and hunting efforts based on data it collects and analyzes for each county. While the Loudoun County deer population index remains very high, VDGIF has tracked a reduction in deer populations by up to 25% over 10 years in NOVA, indicating that deer management is effective and needs to continue
Fall2018
to reach and sustain a “maintenance” level population, as deer have no natural predators in NOVA and require human intervention. Hunting also assures a healthy herd, avoiding disease and starvation of deer in overpopulated areas. A current lethal threat to deer, chronic wasting disease, has been observed in Virginia. Willowsford Conservancy participates in efforts to help contain the disease and maintain healthy, sustainable deer populations at Willowsford.
“Hunting also assures a healthy herd, avoiding disease and starvation of deer in overpopulated areas.” Smithsonian Deer Density Study – Initial Results In 2017, the Conservancy contracted with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute to conduct a 3-year deer impact study, and we have posted the initial report on the Conservancy website. Main findings include: The authors estimate “… that The Grange and The Grant had over double the amount of deer per km2
9
WillowsfordConservancy times with resident needs, avoiding weekends and holidays, and minimizing trail closures. Limited firearms hunting in The Grant will help address high deer pressure.
than either The Greens or The Grove”; •
The Grove had the lowest density estimate at 10 deer/km2 (range 7-16); and
•
The Grant had the highest with an estimate of 35 deer/km2 (range 27-45);
•
Current heavy construction activity in The Greens may have moved deer out of the study area.
General estimates for sustainable deer densities vary and depend on a variety of factors that are often specific to the location; some studies show negative impacts on tree seedling abundance at deer densities of above 5.8 deer/km2 or list “sustainable deer density” at about 9.5 deer/km2.
The 2018-2019 Season To reduce the deer population, the Conservancy program is focused on safe and humane harvest of antlerless deer in The Greens and The Grant using shorter-range bows, muzzleloaders and shotguns in large areas of open space at a safe distance from residences. •
This year, a shortened archery season will end with the start of the firearms hunt (see dates below).
•
As in the past year, 4 brief firearms hunting periods are scheduled to balance optimal hunting
10
•
Hunters will be selected based on past success taking antlerless deer to maintain the program’s focus on deer management and discourage “recreational hunting.”
•
The program continues to bar rifles, permitting only shorter-range shotguns, muzzleloaders and bows for added safety.
Program Dates The Greens
The Grant
Archery (trails open)
October 6th November 30th
October 6th November 11th
Firearms (trails closed)
Tues - Fri Dec 4th - 7th
Mon - Fri Nov 12th - 16th
Tues - Fri Dec 18th - 21th
Tues - Fri Dec 4th - 7th
Tues - Sat Dec 4th - 7th
Tues - Fri Jan 1st - 4th
Actual hunting days are weather permitting. Residents can access all Deer Management Program information at WillowsfordConservancy.org/Nature/ Wildlife-Management/.
WillowsfordLife
WillowsfordConservancy Marinated Grilled Venison with Sauce Grand Veneur by Chef Bonnie Moore Willowsford Culinary Director
Place all the ingredients in a resealable bag and marinate the meat overnight in the refrigerator. To make the sauce: ½ cup demi glacé or other rich, dark stock 1 tablespoon red currant jelly Salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon crème fraiche 1. Preheat the grill. 2. Remove the meat from the marinade and set aside. 3. Place the marinade in a saucepan and reduce by half.
Serves 4 To marinate the venison: 4 pieces venison tenderloin Finely chopped onion, shallots, garlic, carrots Bouquet garni (bay leaf, parsley stems, thyme, black peppercorns) Splash white or red wine Splash red wine vinegar Vegetable oil Pinch cloves Pinch coriander
Fall Events with the Conservancy Autumn is a wonderful time to hit the trails, observe wildlife, and join fellow residents for fun and educational events. Visit WillowsfordConservancy. org for a complete lineup of programs, to register for events, or rent the facilities.
4. Add the demi-glace or stock and cook until the sauce is reduced enough to coat a spoon. Whisk in the currant jelly. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and whisk in the crème fraiche. 5. Meanwhile grill the venison on both sides until it is rare or medium rare. Do not overcook.
Wednesday, October 10th Join wildlife biologist Kevin Rose for an Evening Forest Wildlife Walk in The Grange. Limited to 20 participants; register early!
Saturday, October 20th The Conservancy Team joins the HOA at AutumnFest with exciting, hands-on pollinator displays and activities. Learn about the life of honeybees and how to build “bee hotels” for our native bees. See just how many
Camping & Venue Rentals
different bees, bugs, beetles, and butterflies it takes to
The Grant Family Campground and the new Hidden
you can support them in your own backyard. We look
Meadow Event Field & Group Campground can be rented through October 31st, and Cedar Pond Pavilion
keep things growing in Virginia, what they eat, and how forward to seeing you there!
is available through mid-November for family and group events.
Fall2018
11
“Your wings already exist; all you have to do is fly!” ~ Unknown
LOUDOUN COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
Preschool - 8th Leesburg, VA
www.LCDS.org
12
Schedule A Tour New for 2018! Bus Service From Willowsford WillowsfordLife
TheLifestyle
Welcome to Willowsford Essential Information for New Residents by Ellie Olney HOA Hospitality Coordinator
from CivicPlus, for subscription confirmation and website access to WillowsfordLife.com. After settlement, and upon our receipt of your closing disclosure, you’ll be issued two complimentary key fobs which extend your access to the fitness center and pools. You will receive an email when your fobs are available for pick up. This process may take up to thirty days. However, if you would like to obtain your fobs sooner, you may submit your closing disclosure to HOA@willowsford.com. Please also contact us to order receptacles and begin trash and recycling service.
Lastly, if you haven’t already attended a Willowsford 101, please join us! Every other month team members Congratulations on the decision to purchase a from the HOA, Lifestyle, Kitchen, Conservancy, and Willowsford home. We are excited to welcome you to Farm will be present to give you an overview of each Willowsford! Our community is growing daily with new aspect of our beautiful community. Begin the evening by residents, new amenities, and mingling with representatives new culinary and lifestyle from our many residentprogramming. We pride led Community Clubs. This ourselves in offering you a fun, interactive evening is a lifestyle of inspired living, great opportunity to learn utilizing our vast outdoor about your community and space and amenities to meet your neighbors. Please Thursday, November 29th 6:30 - 8 PM connect our residents with register online. The Lodge nature and each other.
Please Join Us at the Next Willowsford 101!
To begin enjoying your new amenities and receive important community information, please complete your Household Registration Form online. Once the form is processed, you will receive two separate emails
Fall2018
As purchasing a home is filled with many decisions, it’s our goal to ensure we provide friendly, efficient, and convenient service regarding your HOA questions and concerns. Call or email HOA@willowsford.com for anything at all.
13
TheLifestyle
What to See, Where to Go, When to Do Celebrate the Holidays by Susan Walters HOA Lifestyle Manager We have so much fun planned for Willowsford in the coming months! October 20th brings us AutumnFest; a day filled with live music, mouth-watering BBQ, an exhibit hosted by the Conservancy, activities to occupy the little ones, and more. An extra-special bonus at this year’s event, chef Carla Hall, co-host of ABC’s The Chew and fan-favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef, will be on-site to sign copies of her upcoming book. Willowsford residents will have the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of her book, Carla Hall’s Soul Food: Everyday and Celebration, before it’s available in stores. Supplies are limited.
AutumnFest Saturday, October 20th
We will be hosting our second Mystery Dinner Theatre on November 10th. This year’s theme: Totally 80’s! Totally Murder! Residents had such a blast at our interactive 1920’s themed event last year, we needed a repeat. Who will solve the crime this time? Also, musician Ted Garber will be back to entertain you with his creative song interpretations and story-telling at our Fall Acoustic Fireside on November 16th. He truly puts on a great show. On December 8th make new memories at Santa Visits Willowsford and the Gingerbread Workshop, holiday favorites. This year, we have extended Santa’s visit and Mrs. Claus will also be accompanying him. Bring your camera to capture the moments. Lastly, we invite all residents 21+ to join us for an evening of Holiday Cheer on December 13th. The HOA’s annual holiday gathering is a great opportunity to mix and mingle with neighbors while enjoying festive hors d’oeuvres and libations.
Visit WillowsfordLife.com > Calendar to keep up with everything happening at Willowsford.
14
Mystery Dinner Theatre Saturday, November 10th
WillowsfordLife
TheLifestyle
Santa Visits Willowsford & Gingerbread Workshop Saturday, December 8th
Holiday Pies Thursday, November 15th
Fall Acoustic Fireside Friday, November 16th
Fall2018
Holiday Cheer Thursday, December 13th
15
A Catholic High School Coming to Loudoun!
Open House: Sunday, Oct 28, 1-4 PM Named one of the Top 50 Catholic High Schools in the U.S. 32 AP/Dual Enrollment courses; Advanced Diploma 95 AP Scholars and 9 National AP Scholars State of the Art Biosafety Level 2 Science Lab Technology for learning integrated throughout curriculum Directed Independent Study, 100 diverse electives
PVI oers bus service to and from Ashburn, Aldie and Bristow.
16
Active and spirited student body; 50 athletic teams & over 50 clubs
Learn more at www.paulvi.net
WillowsfordLife
PetCorner
Paws & Claws Pancreatitis Friday by Alice Ignaszewksi, DVM, MS Willowsford Resident With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s important to keep in mind the ways that this change of season can affect your pets. Many of us are aware of the dangers of giving our pets chocolate Halloween candy, but what about the other holidays? Take Thanksgiving, for instance. Max is begging for a taste of that delicious dinner you spent hours preparing. What’s the harm in fixing a big plate of turkey, gravy, and mashed potatoes for your favorite four-legged family member? If you give in to those long stares and whimpers, you may find yourself writing a check to the veterinarian rather than spending your money on Black Friday sales. Overdoing it could make your pet a victim of “pancreatitis Friday.” The pancreas is an organ found in the abdominal cavity of humans and animals. The pancreas has multiple functions, but one of the most important is to aid in the digestion of food. After a normal meal of kibble or wet food, the pancreas will generate digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine. Once in the small intestine, the enzymes are activated, allowing them to break down food so that the nutrients can be absorbed. When an animal consumes too many fatty foods, say at Thanksgiving dinner, the pancreas can be over-stimulated, which leads to an overproduction of digestive enzymes. When these enzymes are prematurely activated while still in the pancreas, the organ will start to digest itself. This results in inflammation of the pancreas, a condition called
Fall2018
pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis can be mild or life-threatening. This means that animals can experience mild illness with a rapid recovery, or experience severe and prolonged clinical signs. Clinical signs associated with acute pancreatitis include vomiting, depression, anorexia (lack of appetite), abdominal pain, and diarrhea. As always, consult your veterinarian if you suspect your animal is sick. While pancreatitis Friday is a real thing, it is important to note that it is not limited to only the Thanksgiving holiday. The exact cause of pancreatitis is unknown, but there are multiple risk factors, one of which is a high-fat diet. Since the threat of pancreatitis is present whenever your pet binges on fatty foods, care should be taken to limit the human foods your pet has access to. If you would still like Max to be a part of Thanksgiving
Willowsford Off-Leash Areas Everfield Community Park The Grant Grassland Community Park The Greens Winston’s Walkabout Dog Park The Grange
17
Meet the
18
WillowsfordLife
FamilyFeature
Archers
Life in The Grange
by Kacie Ward HOA Administrative Coordinator “From the moment we drove across the bridge on Founders Drive that chilly, February morning in 2013 when The Grange was in its infancy, Sean and I knew we could see ourselves raising our family in Willowsford,” says Joe. For newcomers it might be difficult to imagine what the community looked like five years ago, before Sycamore House was built or Fleetwood Road was paved. But the Archers glimpsed through the construction debris and envisioned themselves among the open spaces, stunning architecture, and unique amenities.
“… Sean and I knew we could see ourselves raising our family in Willowsford.” Like all good love stories Sean and Joe’s began quite unexpectedly. Attending a mutual friend’s birthday party Sean, visiting from his home state of Florida, met Joe, a Northern Virginia native. Sparks flew, Sean never returned to Florida, and the rest is, as they say, history. The couple will celebrate their 19th anniversary in November. 10-year-old James, 9-year-old Rylan, and a sweet Corgi named Lillie complete the Archer family. Both children attend Madison’s Trust Elementary just down the road. James looks forward to celebrating his favorite holiday, Halloween, by playing Fortnite and disbursing candy
Fall2018
to neighborhood trick-or-treaters. Writing and math are Rylan’s favorite subjects. She is also a level-four competitive gymnast. Last season she won ninth place at the level-three statewide competition and is now preparing for the next competition. James praises, “my sister has always been there for me and I’ve always been there for her.” Chances are you’ve met or heard of Joe, who began volunteering to support the community soon after moving in. “His contributions to the HOA’s governance are well known—first on the Neighborhood Advisory Committee, then later as the first resident elected to the Board of Directors. But many may not know that he was also instrumental in organizing the Community Garden Club and working with the Development
19
FamilyFeature Team to have it built and operating,” says HOA Board President Mark TrostIe. On many occasions Joe collaborated with residents, the HOA, Developer, State and County officials, local politicians, and neighboring communities to raise awareness and address the most pressing issues affecting our community. As devout foodies, Sean and Joe have an enormous amount of appreciation for the culinary programming that Chef Bonnie and the Willowsford Kitchen Team devise. “One of our favorite neighborhood memories was the Bryan Voltaggio dinner hosted at Sycamore House. It was truly an amazing dining experience,” professed Sean. The couple looks forward to attending more events where celebrity chefs come to Willowsford to showcase their talents. Although Sean and Joe are both busy with thriving careers, volunteer work, and family duties they relish the occasional escape. They recently started a new holiday tradition that incorporates the family’s love
20
of travel. Instead of giving traditional Christmas gifts, Joe and Sean give their children amazing experiences by traveling to new countries and learning about different cultures. This holiday season the Archers will start out in Rome, Italy and tour the Colosseum before making their way south exploring Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. They will wrap up their trip with a gondola ride in Venice before heading home—to Willowsford.
Do you know a family that should be featured in the next issue of WillowsfordLife? We are looking for candidates that have a unique, interesting story to share and are actively involved in the community! Nominate a fellow household by e-mailing HOA@willowsford.com.
WillowsfordLife
Fall2018
21
Ted Britt Ford Lincoln
of Chantilly would like to extend an exclusive offer to Willowsford residents.
Your next oil change is on the house! Stop by with your copy of Willowsford Life in hand and experience our exceptional service. We look forward to earning your business for future maintenance and repairs.
TED BRITT 4 LIFE
TM
LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE
Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection
TED BRITT 4 LIFE
TM
LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE
Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection
TED BRITT 4 LIFE
TM
LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE
Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection
4175 Auto Park Circle, Chantilly, VA 20151 Sales: (703) 454-0008 Commercial Sales: (703) 544-2648 Service: (703) 454-0012 Parts: (703) 454-0014
TedBritt.com 22
ON ALL NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES! • Powertrain Coverage • Battery Replacement Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection • Windshield Replacement • Virginia State Inspection • Complimentary Service Loaner • Nitrogen Fill Certain restrictions may apply. Consult a sales representative for details.
WillowsfordLife
JustForKids
The Art Gallery
My Jack-o-Lantern Masterpiece
Katie Clarke, Age 9
Mackenna Larson, Age 8
Briella Taylor, Age 11
Timothy Sigmund, Age 8
Next Issue:
Danny Sigmund, Age 6
Want to be featured in the next issue of WillowsfordLife? Snow will be on the ground before you know it! Children ages 3-13: please submit a drawing showing your favorite way to spend a snow day. Kindly drop off artwork at Sycamore House or The Lodge by November 2nd. On the back of submission please include: child’s name and age (may be published), plus parents’ names and address (used for verification purposes only). All submissions become the property of Willowsford HOA and may be published in a future issue.
Robert Albers, Age 10
Fall2018
23
WillowsfordFarm
Farm Stand Changing Hands Introducing Ashley Swensen by Deb Dramby Former Retail & CSA Manager The Farm Stand has always been a gathering space. A place where members of the Willowsford community, our staff, and our “farm-ily” are able to come together to celebrate the Farm’s harvest, talk about the trials and tribulations of farming, swap recipes, and learn about other farmers, artisans, and producers in the area that raise animals and crops that we don’t, but with the same standards of animal welfare and care for the environment and human health. We get to know you, you get to know us, and we all get into the rhythm of eating seasonally. What a gift, right? It has been an honor to build and populate this space alongside you. As I move on from my role here at
24
Willowsford, it is also my honor to introduce you to the new curator of all things Farm Stand, Ashley Swensen. Originally from North Carolina, Ashley landed in the restaurant industry after college and was drawn to a restaurant group heavily focused on farm-to-table practices and environmental sustainability. That setting, as well as her husband’s career, eventually led her to Montgomery County, Maryland, smack dab in the middle of Maryland’s agricultural reserve. Raising her two sons, she took advantage of her break from the workforce and became steeped in the local agricultural scene. She made friends with farmers, reveled in her CSA share, and started volunteering at markets to help bridge the gap between her farmer friends and consumers. This day and age it’s unusual to find people who still bake their own bread and “keep meaning to get in the habit of making yogurt,” but luckily, she found us! Beginning in August, Ashley has enthusiastically sought out new local products and implemented
WillowsfordLife
WillowsfordFarm ideas to make the Farm Stand a destination for most of your culinary needs. She will tell you that, as a mother and household-budget-manager herself, she’s still running to Costco for olive oil, nuts and everyday snacks for the kids, but as far as main ingredients – she’s working hard to keep a consistent variety of vegetables, meat and fruit available every day the Farm Stand is open. All of her time in restaurants and commitment to enriching her sons’ palettes makes her an incredible resource for this community. When you meet Ashley, ask her what she’s making for dinner this week, what vegetables she is excited about now and looking forward to in the coming weeks, and the most magical meal she experienced in a basement trattoria in Montefalco, Italy.
Willowsford Farm Holiday Market Tuesday, November 20th 2 - 7 PM At the Farm Stand you can purchase produce, fruit, eggs, poultry, beef, pork, honey, dairy, pantry items, baked goods, and gifts. If we don’t grow or raise it here, we work with local producers and artisans who operate with the same principles and standards for their animals, the earth, and the quality of their products as we do. During our annual Holiday Market, shop for Thanksgiving essentials, pick up your preorder turkey, baked goods and prepared foods, and stock up on your favorite Farm Stand items to last you throughout the winter season.
Fall2018
Ashley’s Favorite Food Blogs The First Mess TheFirstMess.com Serious Eats SeriousEats.com Smitten Kitchen SmittenKitchen.com Half-Baked Harvest HalfBakedHarvest.com
25
CommunityClubs
Aiming High Archery Club Spotlight by Scott Burlingame Willowsford Resident The ancient sport of target archery combines skills of strength, precision, and consistency, and builds focus while enjoying the outdoors. Archery is very social and can be practiced for fun or to take part in competitions. Target archery is the most popular form of archery, in which archers shoot at stationary circular targets at varying distances. All types of bow – longbow, barebow, recurve, compound, and crossbows – can be used at the newly completed Recreational Archery Range. Archery Club members can help advise on types of bows, arrows, and protective accessories to get started.
“Archery is very social and can be practiced for fun or to take part in competitions.” Residents of all ages can practice at the outdoor range, which features a rustic pavilion that covers the shooting zone, picnic tables for archery instruction led by resident archers or guest instructors, a storage shed, and 10 archery lanes with covered targets at distances of 10 to 60 yards. Willowsford Conservancy provides and maintains the archery range in The Greens, which serves as the venue for the Archery Club. The Conservancy and Club have entered into a Facility Use Agreement for the range, and residents must be members of the Archery Club to use the range. To cover insurance fees and other expenses, there is a small annual fee to join the nonprofit Archery Club.
26
WillowsfordLife
CommunityClubs Residents who would like to join or obtain more information about the Archery Club should contact willowsfordarcheryclub@gmail.com, and join the Willowsford Archery Club Facebook Group for all the latest news.
Community Clubs Archery Club Bourbon Club Brew Club Bunco Babes Community Garden Club Mountain Bike Club Social Club Willowsford Cares Willowsford Wheels The Wine Club North The Wine Club South Joining a Willowsford-Sponsored Community Club is a wonderful way to meet your neighbors, become familiar with the community, and make real world connections. Visit the Community Calendar online to view all upcoming club events and details. Each club also has a Facebook Group which residents can request to join.
Fall2018
27
Northern Virginia's Premier Landscape Design & Build Company Allow us to create stunning scenery and living spaces that will make your yard your favorite part of the house. No other company in the area oers the same combination of experience, quality and service. Our complete landscaping design and installation oerings include: Flagstone/Paver Patios
Custom Decks
Walkways & Sidewalks
Water Features
Retaining & Seat Walls
Outdoor Lighting
Fireplaces & Fire Pits
Landscape Design & Plant Installation
Outdoor Kitchens
Call or Visit for Your Consultation Today (703) 969-4481 MyOutdoorSolution.com
Now Offering Two NEW Pre-K Options Extended Day Pre-K 6:30am-7:00pm
9am - 12pm or 12-3pm $650/month
9am - 3pm $1,000/month
($150/week) New!
($230/week)
New!
Call for more info! Ashburn Campus
43629 Greenway Corporate Drive Ashburn, VA 20147
571.223.3110
Westfields Campus 5003 Westone Plaza Chantilly, VA 20151 703.961.8222
www.BeanTreeLearning.com
28
WillowsfordLife
CommunityStandards
Saplings, Seedlings & Shrubs What to Plant This Fall by Christine Massey HOA Assistant Manager Fall is an ideal time to plant trees and shrubs. When we say fall what we really mean is when the fall-like weather hits, which could be as late as October or November here in Willowsford. The weather is cool, but the soil is still warm enough for root development. Blustery days and rainfall reduce water uptake, so plants can focus more energy on establishing their root systems before the soil begins to freeze. The result is a stronger, better-developed root system for next spring when the plant begins to grow. Varieties that are especially favorable to fall planting are Maple, Linden, Sycamore, Pine, and Spruce trees, along with most deciduous shrubs.
Fall2018
This is also the perfect time to plant spring-blooming bulbs such as Tulip, Daffodil, Hyacinth, or Crocus bulbs. All spring-blooming bulbs need a period of dormancy to bloom. Bury bulbs into your existing beds (or apply for new landscaping) that will add pops of color to your yard come March and April. Keep in mind that most bulbs do best in full sun and always rememberpointy side up! Lastly, this is the time of year when most gardeners are finishing up their harvest of fruits and vegetables. While it might be too late to plant most fall-harvested crops, lettuce, spinach, and other greens can be planted later in the season since they have a short maturity time. Some greens, such as kale and collards even become a bit sweeter after a light frost. Vegetable gardens are permitted without DRC Review if less than 100 sq. ft. in size and located between the rear line of the house and the rear property line. Please see the Design Guidelines for more information. If you desire to install new trees and shrubs, start making plans, and submit a Design Review Application. Your yard will thank you for it!
29
CommunityStandards
Tree & Vegetation Removal If you live on a partially wooded lot, often marked on your grading plan or plat as “limits of clearing,” you may have questions about what is permitted or how to propose changes to the area. Below is an excerpt from the Tree & Vegetation Removal Policy. This is just a summary of the requirements for quick reference. Please review the full document, posted on WillowsfordLife.com, prior to conducting any work.
•
If a tree threatens immediate danger to persons or property, promptly notify the HOA with pictures and, if possible, a statement from either a tree removal contractor or affected neighbor. Emergency removal may take place prior to DRC approval; however, an appropriate application must be submitted immediately following the removal.
•
Approval must be obtained by HOA to prune any branch, shrub, or tree at your property line that is rooted in Common Area and extends onto your lot.
•
Replacement trees may be required when removing existing trees and additional replacements will be required for all trees and shrubs removed without An application should approval. Navigating the intricacies of the Design be submitted to Guidelines and applying for an Exterior • Applications for the Design Review Modification is not always easy, but the removal and/or pruning of Committee for HOA staff is here to help. For questions or any trees must include the approval before clarification about the process please contact following*: removing any trees DRC@willowsfordlife.com. (regardless of health), • Plat with approximate brush clearing, location, type, and size of tree grading, or mechanized vegetation removal. • Photos of vegetation and/or trees Without an application, you may selectively • If clearing is proposed, it shall be hand-prune existing vegetation to remove accurately located on house grading dead branches, elevate canopy, and remove plan. poisonous plants or noxious weeds. *Additional information may be requested Large-scale tree or vegetation clearing intended by the DRC to convert woods to maintained lawn is prohibited. Removal should be limited and done in such manner that the area remains attractive and natural in appearance.
Let Us Be Your Guide!
•
•
•
30
WillowsfordLife
CommunityStandards Design Review Committee Information Here are some upcoming DRC dates to keep in mind. If you have any questions about the process, please reach out to DRC@willowsfordlife. com. Note that DRC dates are officially advertised through the Willowsford Weekly emails and on the Willowsford Community Calendar online. Dates listed herein are subject to change.
October 22nd – Application Deadline 24th – Pre-Review 31st – DRC Meeting November 16th – Application Deadline 20th – Pre-Review 28th – DRC Meting December 10th – Application Deadline 12th – Pre-Review 19th – DRC Meeting
Willowsford Mercantile Now Open!
Shop Willowsford Mercantile, our exclusive online boutique. Featured products include wine glasses, backpacks, picnic blankets, and other Willowsfordbranded merchandise.
WillowsfordLife.com > Lifestyle > Willowsford Mercantile
Fall2018
31
SummerRoundup Wineries at Willowsford Saturday, June 2nd
Summer Concert Friday, June 8th
32
WillowsfordLife
SummerRoundup Family Picnic & Fireworks Tuesday, July 3rd
Celebrity Chef Dinner Saturday, July 28th
Fall2018
33
Located At The
INDOOR & OUTDOOR SHOWROOM 42351 Azalea Lane, Dulles VA 703-996-8099 DECKS • PATIOS • PAVILIONS PORCHES • FIREPLACES FIRE PITS • OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND MORE...
DESIGNED AND BUILT BY HOLLOWAY COMPANY
DESIGNED AND BUILT BY HOLLOWAY COMPANY
DESIGNED AND BUILT BY HOLLOWAY COMPANY
www.HollowayCompany.com
CONTRACTOR SALES
- Pick-Up or delivery available - Orders in by 2pm can be pulled for next day pick-up - Quick turn around on special orders - Ask about partial pallet material - Contractor packages available - Training on new products - Lot material storage solutions
CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES - Silca System - Post Protector - Sunspace - Polysand - Crushed Stone: #21 & #57 - Chalet Stone (River Rock) - Isokern Fireplace Kits - Chicago Brick Oven - Quikrete Products - Drainage Supplies
PAVERS & STONE - Hanover Pavers - Cambridge Pavers - Porcelain Pavers - Flagstone - Travertine Pavers - Natural Veneer - Eldorado Stone Veneer - Natural Panel Stone Veneer
PAVER SUPPLIES - Edging - Edge Spikes - Fabric N060 GeoTextile
www.OutdoorLivingWholesale.com 571-237-4651 www.SunspacebyHollowayCompany.com 703-429-0944
By
• Sunrooms & Screenrooms • WeatherMaster Windows • Patio Covers • Railing Systems • Aluminum Decking • SunShades • Slide Clear Screens Contractors Welcome
Willowsford HOA 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148