WillowsfordLife Winter 2019
Join CSA in 2019 Sign Up Today!
WillowsfordFarmCSA.com In Community Supported Agriculture, we plan, grow, and harvest vegetables using organic farming practices to fit your household’s needs at any size. CSA subscriptions allow us to match production to demand, and invest in growing the highest quality produce! We harvest three times a week to delight you with the freshest ingredients from kitchen to dinner table. With a flexible schedule and multiple pick-up locations, Willowsford Farm’s CSA is the most convenient way to eat seasonally, and support local agriculture and your community.
Personal Share $25
Designed to support the weekly vegetable needs of singles and couples, or families that eat fewer vegetables.
Family Size Share $39 The family size share contains the same varieties of vegetables found in the personal shares, but in quantities appropriate for families of 3-5 people.
Adventurous Eating Share $6 Surprise your palate with new flavors! While our other CSA shares will provide you with seasonal mainstays, this special “Add-On” will be lesser known herbs, rare cultivars, hard-tofind heirloom varieties, and unique crops we only grow in small quantities.
Our popular Farm Eggs, natural Milks, pastured Meats, and fresh Flowers will also be available in shares this spring!
FARM STAND & GARDEN
CONTACT US
May – November, 2019 23595 Founders Drive I Ashburn, VA 20148
Market@WillowsfordFarm.com WillowsfordFarm.com
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The Hometown Pros Willowsford Homeowners Trust
Call us (703) 327-1636
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Manager’sLetter
Manager’s Letter A Note from Willowsford Lane
by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA, AMS, PCAM HOA Community Manager The HOA Team would like to wish you and your family the very best health, happiness, and success in the coming year. There is a great deal in store for Willowsford in 2019, from adding new amenities and lifestyle programming to completing operational
projects aimed at conserving energy and natural resources. We are so glad that you are here to be part of it all! Our newest amenity, Willow Grove Pond & Splash Park is tentatively expected to open this summer. We also have many new and exciting Lifestyle plans to look forward to such as an interactive mixology class, farm-to-table meals, ice cream social at the pools, and expanding events beyond just Sycamore House and The Lodge. Our Community Clubs are growing and flourishing as well. You should have received the 2019 HOA budget summary in the mail. If you have questions about the approved HOA budget, please contact us at HOA@ willowsford.com. The budget, as well as the calendar of upcoming events, activities, and meetings, can also be viewed online at WillowsfordLife.com. Our next HOA Board Meeting is set for January 10th at 1:30 PM at Sycamore House; resident open forum is expected to start at approximately 2 PM. Please join us if you can. In closing, to any of you I haven’t yet met, I look forward to doing so in 2019!
WillowsfordLife Vol. 2, No. 1: Winter 2019 Copyright 2019 © 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.
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WillowsfordLife
WillowsfordContacts SycamoreHouse
TheLodge
23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148
41085 Willowsford Lane Aldie, VA 20105
(571) 297-2586
(571) 297-2584
Monday-Wednesday
9 AM - 5 PM
Monday
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Thursday-Friday
9 AM - 9 PM
Tuesday-Wednesday
9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday
11 AM - 6 PM
Thursday-Friday
9 AM - 9 PM
Sunday
11 AM - 4 PM
Saturday
11 AM - 6 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
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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
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Business Feature
The Lifestyle
In the Kitchen
Community Clubs
Meet the Vitelas
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Paws & Claws
Conservancy
Farm
Fall Roundup
Just for Kids
Community Standards
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BusinessFeature
Ted Garber Entertainer to Entrepreneur Courtesy of the Lifestyle Team
and shattering long-held sales and attendance records along the way. Born in Washington, DC, Ted’s career took him all over the DMV area and beyond. He kicked off his career performing covers on the streets of New Orleans and his thirst for new experiences has led him to more than 30 countries on five different continents. Explaining how he got started in the industry Ted says, “I grew up the son of an extrovert, chatty mother and a fulltime musician-vocalist father, so it’s impossible to remember a time where I wasn’t surrounded by music and performance.”
“...exceeding client expectations and shattering long-held sales and attendance records along the way.”
As a Loudoun local, you might be familiar with the musical stylings of freewheeling musician and singer-songwriter Ted Garber, whose unique brand of Blues-AmericanaRock combines smoky vocals, howling harmonica riffs, and screaming guitar licks. Now at the helm of Garber Partners, a small but mighty marketing and event production firm, Ted is evolving from entertainer to entrepreneur while exceeding client expectations
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Ted made his Willowsford debut at the Winter Fireside in 2017 and has since played several more events. Resident response has been overwhelmingly positive, and fans are delighted by the talent Ted exudes on stage. A lively performance was enjoyed by all who attended the Fall
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BusinessFeature Acoustic Fireside on November 16th. In reference to the event, Willowsford resident Sharon Eisenberg said, “It’s always fun to explore the amenities and hear Ted Garber play. He was exceptional last time and outstanding tonight. It is wonderful to experience this with an intimate group of neighbors.” Ted describes how the music industry takes relentless determination day after day to stay relevant. “I don’t know anyone, famous or obscure, who has made a living in the arts without working constantly at the craft and by being absolutely undeterred in the quest to succeed. Desire, drive, belief, courage, and willpower are just some of the attributes required to make a living in the entertainment business,” he says. While Ted continues to entertain audiences with his creative blues-inspired vocals, he also devotes much of his time to growing his marketing and event production business, Garber Partners.
improve the overall experience? Will people remember this?’” explains Ted. We at Willowsford are excited for the next great performance Ted Garber has to offer. Please check the calendar of events to see upcoming performances in the community. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an entertainer for an upcoming celebration, wedding, fundraiser, company gathering, or other event—feel free to reach out to Ted Garber and Garber Partners to assist with all your event production and marketing needs. His high-octane, witty performances and unmistakable flare for audience engagement won’t disappoint. As his tagline goes: “You go farther with Garber!”
Garber Partners provides state of the art lighting and sound, paired with the region’s finest artists, performers, vendors, and artisans. Not only does Garber Partners provide exceptional talent they also provide marketing and event promotion. “Garber Partners gives attention and care to every nuance, always asking the question, ‘Will this resonate? Will this
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WillowsfordLife
BusinessFeature
Ted Garber Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Entertainer, Storyteller
Genre Blues-Americana-Rock
Web TedGarber.com
Booking Agent TedGarberMusic@gmail.com
Social Media Tag #GotGarber
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TheLifestyle
What to See, Where to Go, When to Do Winter in Willowsford by Susan Walters HOA Lifestyle Manager Get out your gloves and dust off your sled. It’s wintertime in Willowsford! One of the most unique features of Willowsford are the two sledding hills located in The Greens near the dog park on Grassland Grove Drive. Atop the largest hill, you’ll find a firepit area perfect for roasting marshmallows or heating up a mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter day. Don’t feel like sledding? No problem—we have plenty of events planned for you during these cold, winter months. Cozy up with friends and neighbors and enjoy the publike atmosphere at our Winter Acoustic Fireside. You’ll spend the evening listening to local musicians while savoring hearty food and craft beer. Do you know of a great musician in the area to recommend? Please reach out; I’m always on the lookout for amazing new entertainers.
Date Night Saturday, January 12th
Celebrate the spirit of love by attending our annual Valentine’s Dinner held at Sycamore House. Willowsford Kitchen will serve an elegant, farm-inspired menu with wine pairings that are sure to please. We are also promoting a new event this winter, our first Mixology Class. These small, hands-on classes will teach cocktail basics, techniques, infusions, and food pairings. Learn to mix, muddle, and shake!
Visit WillowsfordLife.com > Calendar to keep up with everything happening at Willowsford.
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Willowsford 101 Thursday, January 24th
WillowsfordLife
TheLifestyle
Lunch & Learn 3-Week Series Starting January 24th
Valentine’s Dinner Saturday, February 9th
Winter Acoustic Fireside Friday, January 25th
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Mixology Class Saturday, March 2nd
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TheLifestyle
In the Kitchen
Hot Bacon Vinaigrette for Winter Vegetables
Jr. Chef Academy
by Chef Bonnie Moore Willowsford Culinary Director
by Susan Walters HOA Lifestyle Manager Kids can cook and entertain! Willowsford’s Jr. Chef Academy is a special 6-week series of classes teaching children how to plan, cook for, and throw a party. Kids will learn a variety of key cooking techniques, party planning, and dinner party etiquette. The series finale will be a three-course meal prepared and hosted by the kids, followed by a graduation ceremony. The Jr. Chef Academy per-child price includes an apron, dinner each evening, and an invitation for one parent to attend the finale dinner and graduation ceremony.
JCA Half Pints Ages 5 to 8 Tuesdays (January 15th – February 19th) JCA Foodies Ages 9 to 13 Thursdays (January 17th – February 21st)
Vinaigrettes work just as well with warm vegetables in the winter months as they do with cold vegetables in the summer. Drizzle warm dressing over baked sweet potatoes, roasted winter squash, or simple sautéed green beans. Serves 4. Ingredients 2 strips thick-cut bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4inch wide strips salt freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 cups (or 4 portions) cooked vegetables Instructions In a small skillet heat the bacon over medium heat until it begins to brown around the edges. Add the sherry vinegar and scrape the caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Stir in the Dijon. Serve warm.
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CommunityClubs
The Perfect Pour Wine Club South Spotlight by Karie Zipper Willowsford Resident Wine Club South was organized to compliment Wine Club North and offer Willowsford residents a second opportunity to enjoy their favorite adult beverage. All residents are invited to attend our events regardless of their location. We like to mix it up with casual BYO nights, tastings at The Lodge, group trips to local wineries, and more.
“We like to mix it up with casual BYO nights, tastings at The Lodge, group trips to local wineries, and more.� Wine Club South will be offering several fun activities this year! Our largest and highest-attended event is our annual Kentucky Derby Party that we host in conjunction with the Bourbon Club. Don a festive hat
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WillowsfordLife
CommunityClubs or your best bowtie and join the party—this is an event you won’t want to miss. Residents who would like to join or learn more about Wine Club South should join our Facebook Group for all the latest news. The club is free to join, although certain events may require a fee to supplement wine or catering costs. If you enjoy a nice glass of vino while meeting new neighbors or mingling with old, please join us!
Community Clubs Archery Club Bourbon Club
January 11th Tiny Bubbles The Lodge 6 - 8:30 PM Kick off 2019 by poppin’ the bubbly! We’ll sample Champagne, Cava, Prosecco, and other sparklers paired with tasty cheese selections. There will be a fee to attend this event. Please RVSP via our Facebook group.
Brew Club Bunco Babes Community Garden Club Mountain Bike Club Social Club Willowsford Cares Willowsford Wheels
February 23rd Red & Black Party The Lodge 6 - 8:30 PM
The Wine Club South
Red wine and chocolate—the perfect match! Join us as we sip Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and more paired with rich chocolate desserts. There will be a fee to attend this event. Please RVSP via our Facebook group.
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. Each club also has a Facebook Group which residents can request to join.
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The Wine Club North
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Meet the
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WillowsfordLife
FamilyFeature
Vitelas
Life in The Grange
by Kacie Ward HOA Administrative Coordinator The Vitelas count themselves lucky to be surrounded by incredible friends and family in Willowsford. Their children, 14-year-old Giovanni, 12-year-old Rocco, and 7-year-old Amora, are growing up with best friends and cousins just across the street. “Our neighbors are so great, helping with the kids, carpooling, sharing meals… it really does take a village, and that’s something you can find here,” says Amber. Sergio and Amber were raised in the same hometown of Winchester, VA. They met in high school and developed an instant friendship. When Amber went off
“… it really does take a village, and that’s something you can find here.” to college she found herself returning home for school breaks, eager to spend much of that time with Sergio. The two began dating and married shortly after Amber graduated. While residing in Winchester they both worked in Northern Virginia, Sergio as a manager for Costco Wholesale and Amber as a program manager for Volume Integration, a data analytics company. Looking for ways to ease the commute, they discovered Willowsford, then patiently waited for their new K. Hovnanian® home to be built. Three other families they were close with promptly followed suit, including
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Amber’s very own sister. “It was sort of a domino effect, no one wanted to be left out of the fun!” says Amber. Amusingly, there was only one section with lots left in The Grange, so all four families ended up on Paddock Gate Place together. Even though the Vitelas already had connections when they settled into Willowsford in June of 2017, they’ve made plenty of new friends too, such as neighbors Rey and Alex Rivera. “We met the Vitelas shortly after they moved in, when they graciously opened their home to all the neighbors for a block party on a crazy, rainy day. Amber and Sergio are open and giving, just a great family! We love our neighbors,” say the Riveras. The Vitela family routinely combs the Willowsford
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FamilyFeature Weekly seeking the next exciting event. Mystery Dinner Theatre is an all-time favorite of Sergio and Amber’s. They enjoy spending the evening gathering clues and laughing with neighbors, while dressed to the nines in themed outfits. Although, all the socializing can come at a cost; Sergio jokes about the “Willowsford 15,” referencing the weight gain that sneaks up on new residents partaking in the wide array of culinary offerings, block parties, and other social events. Luckily, there’s a Fitness Center at The Lodge to help balance things out and that’s where you’ll find Sergio during his downtime.
favorite winter getaway, Wisp Resort in Maryland. The boys, Giovanni and Rocco, are eager to attempt snowboarding this time around.
The Vitelas are an adventurous bunch, seemingly always on the move. Amid hectic work schedules, shuffling Rocco to ice hockey practice, and cheering on Amora at competitive cheerleading competitions, they still make time for enriching family adventures, whether it’s hiking the cliffs of Great Falls Park, taking in a show in D.C., or zip-lining across Niagara Falls. This month you’ll find the Vitelas skiing at their
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.
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Sergio and Amber are looking forward to cultivating new memories with Giovanni, Rocco, and Amora on Paddock Gate Place. They’re pleased to call Willowsford home—surrounded by close friends, family, and a whole lot of love.
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CommunityStandards
Excuse Me, Plowing Through! Prepare for Snowfall by Christine Massey HOA Assistant Manager If you’ve lived in the area long enough, you know that our winter weather can be quite unpredictable. Some winters we barely see more than a few inches of snow, while others we end up with three to five-foot snow drifts and a severe case of cabin fever. We can never be too sure what we’ll end up with. As Stephen King once said, “there’s no harm in hoping for the best, as long as you’re prepared for the worst.” Perhaps you love snow and that’s the “best” you are hoping for. Or, maybe you’re like me and can’t wait for winter to pass. Either way, you need to be prepared for the possibility of snow and being stuck at home for a bit this winter season. Check out these FAQs to help you prepare for what may come this winter.
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When will snow be plowed? The Association and Developer begin snow removal once the depth of the snow reaches two inches on the roads and is still falling and/or no later than four hours after snow stops fully. In the event of sleet, freezing rain, or a melt/refreeze road conditions will be monitored. Sand or salt may be applied in trouble spots if conditions are icy and the temperature is forecasted to remain below freezing for an extended period.
Who is responsible for snow removal? As a developing community, there are multiple entities responsible for snow removal. For more information on snow removal and to view the most up-to-date Street Responsibility List, please visit WillowsfordLife.com/210/Snow-Removal. Homeowners: Responsible for driveways, fire hydrants, any sidewalk or bus stop adjacent to your lot, and Pipestems. It is recommended that you shovel your driveway and sidewalk after the plow comes through. The Association: Responsible for sidewalks and
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bus stops adjacent to common area, Loop Lanes/ Village Greens/Courtyards that have been final topped, and any other parking lots maintained by the Association. For questions or concerns regarding these areas, please email HOA@ willowsford.com or for after-hours emergency please contact (888) 980-8958. Developer: Roads as identified in the Street Responsibility List. For questions regarding these areas, please email questions@willowsford.com. VDOT: Roads as identified in the Street Responsibility List. For questions or concerns please call (800) 367-7623 or report problems to My.VDOT.Virginia.gov. Builders: Roads as identified in the Street Responsibility List, generally where homes are still under construction. Please reach out to your specific builder.
How is trash service affected by snow? Republic Services will typically provide notice to the HOA if trash removal services will be affected. Service interruption notices will be passed on via e-blast. If you’re not currently receiving emails from us, please contact the office to get this corrected before snow hits!
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When do The Lodge and Sycamore House close? The Association offices generally follow the Loudoun County Government and School Administration snow closures and delays schedule. The Association may stray from this policy if employee safety is of concern. Notification of delayed openings or closure are sent via email.
“… there’s no harm in hoping for the best, as long as you’re prepared for the worst.” “Thaw”tful Reminders Holiday decorations should be removed and stored away no later than two weeks following the celebrated holiday.
WillowsfordLife
CommunityStandards If you are not receiving the Willowsford Weekly, please reach out to the HOA team to ensure you are on the e-blast mailing list and receive all pertinent community updates!
If you haven’t already, stock up on the supplies you need before the snowy weather hits (i.e. salt, shovels, window scrapers).
Remember when it snows to clear the snow from the sidewalk and fire hydrant in front of your home.
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.
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Paws&Claws
Cold Weather Dangers
decreased alertness are the early signs of hypothermia. Be sure to keep an eye on your pets when they’re outdoors and consider outfitting your four-legged family member in a sweater and booties.
The Pet Corner
When exposed to cold temperatures, surface blood vessels start to constrict in an effort to preserve the body’s core temperature. The combination of decreased blood flow and prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to skin damage. Paws, ears, and the tail are the most commonly affected areas. Always monitor the amount of time your pet spends outside and be sure to check for signs of frostbite, such as skin discoloration, pain, and blisters.
by Alice Ignaszewski, DVM, MS Willowsford Resident With the temperatures dropping, it’s time to start thinking about what this change in season means for our pets. The winter months bring along with it the dangers of cold temperatures and potential exposure to toxic seasonal products. Below are some of the most common dangers our furry friends face this time of year. As always, be sure to consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your animal’s behavior or if you think they may be sick.
Hypothermia Our pets, especially the small, young, and elderly, are at risk for developing hypothermia if exposed to the wintery elements for too long. In addition to a below normal rectal temperature, shivering, weakness, and
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Frostbite
Antifreeze While antifreeze is great for those cold mornings to deice our windshields, it can be deadly for our pets. Ethylene glycol is a sweet, odorless ingredient found in most antifreeze products and it is highly toxic. What makes it especially dangerous is that ingestion of only a small amount can be lethal. Almost immediately after ingestion, your pet may exhibit incoordination and vomiting. Within 12-24 hours for cats, or 36-72 hours for dogs, kidney failure develops. At that point, the animal may experience lethargy, anorexia (lack of appetite), seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly
WillowsfordLife
Paws&Claws death. If you suspect your animal may have ingested antifreeze, it is imperative that you make an emergency trip to see a veterinarian. Ethylene glycol is also toxic to humans, so make sure you keep antifreeze products safely stored and out of the reach of children and pets.
Other Dangers In addition to the concerns above, keep in mind that neighbors may use deicers to keep sidewalks clear. To help reduce paw pad irritation, wipe down your pet’s paws once their walk is over. Also, animals, just like humans, can injure themselves if they slip or fall on ice. Consider alternative, sunnier routes if ice is present. And finally, be aware that your car engine may be an inviting place for animals to get some shut-eye. Making some noise can often scare away animals looking for a warm bed before you start the engine.
Willowsford Off-Leash Areas Everfield Community Park The Grant Grassland Community Park The Greens Winston’s Walkabout Dog Park The Grange
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WillowsfordConservancy
Field Notes Conservancy News & Opportunities by Iris Gestram Conservancy Executive Director The New Year brings with it a fresh start, new opportunities, and an exhilarating sense of rejuvenation. Here at Willowsford Conservancy we look forward to sharing with you an exciting lineup of programs and activities, technology and amenity upgrades, expanded volunteer opportunities, and more. Please visit WillowsfordConservancy.org to keep up with all the latest.
Willowsford Wayfinding—A Smartphone App for Trail Navigation Willowsford Conservancy manages roughly 30 miles of nature trails weaving throughout the four villages. In addition to providing printed and online trail maps,
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we are working to make it easier for residents to navigate the trail system and connect with nature. The Conservancy is developing a smartphone app which will put a digital map of our trail system right in your pockets. The app will function like Google Maps by showing your current location and where trails and amenities are located. The app will contain interpretive information about amenities such as the Farm Stand or Beaver Pond, along with information about each trail and trail conditions. The app will be designed to make navigating Willowsford’s trail network easier and guide you from your front door to the outdoors and back home. Digital maps will allow the Conservancy to keep trail information up to date and provide residents a direct connection to interesting trail destinations, new projects, and what’s happening in nature. Once on the trails, you will be able to see exactly where you are, what is nearby, and how to get there. Resident volunteers are supporting Conservancy staff in creating and testing the app. Stay tuned for more information as we roll out the Conservancy’s trail system smartphone app in the spring and summer of 2019.
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WillowsfordConservancy Wood Ducks & Bluebirds—Wildlife Monitoring at Willowsford At Willowsford Conservancy, we continually strive to improve wildlife habitat as part of our comprehensive land management. Man-made wildlife nesting structures increase opportunities for animals to build nests, reproduce, and maintain healthy populations here at Willowsford. This fall, the Conservancy installed four wood duck nest boxes with the help of a local Boy Scout troop which built the nest boxes. Wood ducks
are beautiful waterfowl with males boasting a rainbow of greens, reds, and browns. Unlike mallards which nest on the ground in thick vegetation near ponds and lakes, wood ducks require hollowed out spaces in dead trees (called snags), sometimes converting previous woodpecker nests. Providing artificial nesting structures helps support our local wood duck population.
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Call for Volunteers! To join our team of wildlife monitors, please visit the Conservancy website at WillowsfordConservancy.org/About/GetInvolved to sign up as a volunteer. In addition to becoming a wildlife monitor there are other opportunities to volunteer including scouting the trails, helping with Conservancy events, photography, assisting in the Farm Garden, and much more. Upcoming Conservancy Programs Please visit WillowsfordConservancy.org for upcoming program information. We have much in store this season including winter nature walks and programs on gardening with native plants and attracting pollinators to your back yard.
In addition to wood duck boxes, the Conservancy maintains a network of bluebird nest boxes as nesting habitat for bluebirds and other native cavity nesting songbirds. These boxes benefit not only bluebirds and wood ducks but other animals which require similar nesting habitat. For example, hooded merganser ducks will also occupy wood duck boxes while chickadees, tree swallows, and tufted titmice will use bluebird boxes. By providing habitat for certain wildlife species, we can improve habitat for many other species here at Willowsford. Resident volunteer wildlife monitors help maintain the boxes and check them throughout the nesting season to observe what species use the boxes and how many chicks hatch and successfully fledge each year.
Local Firewood—Help Protect Willowsford Forests
from routine maintenance on Conservancy land and from selective removal of trees that threaten trails or neighboring property. Firewood harvested at Willowsford prevents the spread of wood-based pests and diseases that can be carried into our forests through firewood from outside locations. We also sell Woodhaven firewood racks which are made in America from heavy-duty, quality steel. Check out the 5’ Standard or 5’ Crescent racks. Both can hold ¼ cord of wood. Larger 8’ racks are also available. Racks include a cover; and the crescent racks are great for storing kindling in the lower section Willowsford residents can order firewood and racks directly through WillowsfordConservancy.org for delivery straight to your home.
Stock up on firewood for the winter and stack it on one of our handsome firewood racks! Willowsford Conservancy sells seasoned firewood for use in outdoor fire pits. The firewood is sourced from dead wood collected
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WillowsfordFarm
From the Farm Welcome to the Team by Collin Thompson Farm Manager
&
Ashley Swensen Retail Manager
There have been some exciting changes happening at Willowsford Farm. Perhaps most notably, there are a few new faces you will see on the tractor or at CSA pick up. This fall, Collin Thompson joined Willowsford Conservancy as Farm Manager, and John Buckley as Assistant Farm Manager. Collin feels a little like farming is in his blood, having grown up surrounded by corn and beans in Iowa. Though he wasn’t raised on a farm, he has spent the last decade refining his production and management skills on a variety of farm operations. He joins us from his most recent role as an Extension Educator with Michigan State University Extension. As part of his position, Collin built and managed a diversified organic vegetable farm in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where he tested the limits of organic vegetable production in extreme northern climates. There, he learned to farm in areas with short growing seasons, cold winters, and substantial snowfall.
Collin Collin holds a BS in Biology and a Masters in Sustainable Food Systems. He has been involved in small-scale, diversified agriculture as a farmer, builder, educator, researcher, volunteer, and consultant. Since October, Collin has been learning the ins and outs of farming in Virginia. He is excited to be able to spend more of the year working the fields, enjoying the longer growing season Virginia is known for. He is thrilled to be part of
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the Willowsford team and community and looks forward to leading the Farm, supplying the community with fresh grown vegetables and meats, and sharing his ideas for a thriving CSA. John joined the Willowsford Farm team fresh from the organic vegetable fields of southern Pennsylvania. After spending three years in a management apprenticeship at New Morning Farm, John is excited to continue connecting with people through healthy food. His path to farming was always rooted in encouraging health care within his community. In his early twenties, John spent five years in the US Navy, working alongside doctors to provide healthcare in rural areas. The desire for tangible goals, a love for biological science, and the chance to engage in work that “helps build a little character”, as his mother would say, is what ultimately brought him to farming. John is excited to help form and maintain the connection to local, sustainable food in the Willowsford community and surrounding areas. When John isn’t farming you can find him walking in the woods with his dog, fermenting in the kitchen with the radio on, and sharing food with friends and family. The Farm team will continue to find ways to improve growing practices to make Willowsford Farm as productive and regenerative as possible. The crew will focus on bolstering soil health and biodiversity to keep production viable and resilient. The CSA program has a few changes in store, as well. Based on customer feedback, the 2019 CSA shares will provide you with more of what you want, in quantities
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WillowsfordFarm that make meal planning easier. You’ll be able to select share options with quantities and varieties that better reflect how you eat. For those who are adventurous and curious eaters, there will be a premium addon with unique items, encouraging creativity and exploration in the kitchen. Be sure to join us in the upcoming season and sign up for the 2019 CSA! Farmers love to spend this time of year flipping through seed catalogs, dreaming of spring, and planning for the first sowing of the year. And while the Farm is perhaps a little quieter during the winter months, there is still plenty of activity. Our expanded 2018 winter CSA consists of 10 weeks of farm-fresh produce, eggs, meats, and dairy products. This means that, in addition to winter maintenance and planning, the Farm crew is busy tending crops in the greenhouses, making sure the laying hens are warm and comfortable, and cleaning and packing crops for distribution—to make sure Willowsford residents have access to fresh, local, and delicious food throughout the colder months of the year.
New Year’s Resolutions for the Farm Stand We’ll be ringing in 2019 with a fresh commitment to making the Farm Stand a convenient, multi-purpose grocery option for you and your families. The love and care we put into growing our veggies make them take center stage at our market. We’re proud of the high quality of our pastured meats, natural dairy products, and delicious snacks we carry alongside them. When we reached out to you, our farm-ily, last autumn, we heard that you’re looking for more fruit, more ready-to-eat foods, and the
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return of a few staples (like bread!). You may have noticed at the end of the 2018 season that we added several new products, including granola bars, protein smoothies, locally made sliced cheese and string cheese. Our goal is to keep your lunch boxes and dinner plates full of seasonal, natural, healthy options that make your lives easier and your meals tastier. The Farm Stand may appear quiet in the winter, but we’re bustling away in the offices up the road exploring possibilities for spring. Also … keep your eyes out for additional upgrades to the Farm Garden. Many of the wooden bed borders need to be replaced and we are using the opportunity to adjust some of the garden spaces. Toward the back of the Farm Garden, north of the Farm Stand, you’ll be able to observe crops being grown in larger beds, “farmhouse style.”
John The area next to the Farm Stand and toward the parking lot will continue to feature herbs, flowers, native plants, and berries with a larger grassy area for Farm Stand related events and activities; more child friendly spaces for kids to explore while visiting the Farm Stand; and continuing the seating area for food trucks and similar offerings. Please “pardon the dust” while work is underway.
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It’s a new year and it’s time to get moving! Lose, maintain, or gain, WillowsfordFIT is here to help.
Fitness Center Hours
4 AM - 11 PM Daily with Fob
WillowsfordFIT classes are created in four- or six-week sessions and are advertised in the Willowsford Weekly and on WillowsfordLlife.com. To register, simply click the desired class link and complete the payment information. We will be adding new and exciting classes throughout the year, so please stay tuned! Have an idea for a class or know a fitness instructor who would love to teach here? Please reach out to the Lifestyle Team.
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FallRoundup
AutumnFest Replay Thank you for joining us at AutumnFest on Saturday, October 20th! Live Bluegrass Music BBQ Buffet from Willowsford Kitchen Caramel Apple Dipping Seasonal Beer & Wine Apple Cider Special Guest – Carla Hall Pumpkin Painting Conservancy Pollinator Exhibit Children’s Hay Maze Face Painting And more!
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FallRoundup
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JustForKids
The Art Gallery Snow Day Fun
Ariya, Age 7
Jacob, Age 4
Jasmin, Age 7
Next Issue
Katie, Age 9
Want to be featured in the next issue of WillowsfordLife? April showers bring May flowers! Children ages 3-13: please submit a drawing of your floral masterpiece. Kindly drop off artwork at Sycamore House or The Lodge by February 4th. 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.
In addition to building a snowman, here are some other fun activities to try this winter! Create a maze. As you clear the driveway and sidewalk, why not use the excess to create a snow maze? Build up twists and turns with your shovel. Grab your sled. Make your way to the sledding
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JustForKids
Want to be featured in the next issue of WillowsfordLife?
hills in The Greens for hours and hours of fun. There’s even a firepit area perfect for taking a s’more break. Play snow bocce. Fill water balloons with water and food coloring and freeze overnight. Then, peel off the balloons to reveal colorful ice spheres! Use these to play snow bocce or set up a game of bowling. For the birds. Hollow out an orange, fill with
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seeds, and enjoy the watching the birds flock to your tree. Snow hiking. Winter walks can be special and exciting. If you’re lucky you might even spot some wildlife (or their tracks). Grab a magnifying glass. Is it true that no two snowflakes are the same? Find out as you catch snow on your mittens.
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Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148