WillowsfordLife Fall 2021
Ted Britt Ford Lincoln
EXPLORE AND DISCOVER WITH THE ALL NEW BRONCO FAMILY
YOUR NEXT OIL CHANGE IS ON THE HOUSE! Stop byBRITT with your copy of WillowsfordLife and experience our exceptional service. We TED LIFE 4 look forward to earning your business for future maintenance and repairs. TM
LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE
Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection
ON ALL NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES!
TED BRITT 4 LIFE
Powertrain Coverage | Battery Replacement | Virginia State Inspection Complimentary Service Loaner | Nitrogen Fill TM
LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE
Certain- Service restrictions may apply. Consult a sales representative for details. Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement 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
Manager’s Letter
WillowsfordLife Vol. 4, No. 3: Fall 2021
A Note from Tenant House by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® HOA Community Manager ack-to-school, football, and all things pumpkin spice. We have lots of fun planned for you this fall including my favorite event, AutumnFest! We missed this event last year and are excited to bring it back, bigger than ever. Visit WillowsfordLife.com > Calendar to keep up with everything happening this season.
B
In addition to the activities fall brings, it’s a very important time for the Association—budget season. Preparing the annual budget is my favorite task. Some of this information may sound familiar as I’ve shared it in the past but it’s important to be transparent and for residents to understand and be part of the process. The bulk of budget preparation takes place August through November although budgeting is a yearround project. As contracts expire throughout the year, they are re-negotiated and re-bid by multiple vendors at least every five years, if not sooner. The Association’s Procurement Policy pro-
4
vides parameters for contracting, procuring, and selecting vendors who provide the best combination of service and value. Additionally, staff inspects all common elements identifying items for repair and replacement as well as monitoring improvement ideas for Board consideration. For the Operating Budget, mandatory line items are considered first as they are obligations of the Association such as contracted services, taxes, reserve funding, insurance premiums, etc. Then discretionary items are considered such as suggested improvements or enhanced services. The draft is first sent to the Board Treasurer for review and then to the rest of the Board. Revisions are incorporated and then presented to the community at the November 11th Board Meeting and adopted by the Board. I look forward to seeing you at one of our events and hopefully at the Board Meeting, too!
Copyright 2021 © 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, 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.
WillowsfordLife
Willowsford Contacts
SycamoreHouse 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148 (571) 297-2586
TheLodge
41085 Willowsford Lane Aldie, VA 20105 (571) 297-2584
Monday-Wednesday ...................................9 AM - 5 PM
Monday .................................................................. CLOSED
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
Willowsford Contacts HOA@willowsford.com HOA Questions, Comments & Concerns DRC@willowsfordlife.com Exterior Modification Applications lifestyle@willowsford.com Lifestyle Programming & Amenity Rentals info@willowsfordconservancy.org Conservancy, Trails & Campsites farm@willowsfordfarm.com Willowsford Farm Team
Important Contacts LCSO – Dial 911 LCSO Non-Emergency – (703) 777-1021 Animal Control – (703) 777-0406 Patriot Disposal – (703) 257-7100 Trash – Tuesday & Friday Recycling – Tuesday Yard Waste – Monday 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
Fall2021
5
WillowsfordLife
8
12
15 8 Village Voice 12 Lifestyle 15 In the Kitchen
Willowsford Waves In the Moment
16 16 Family Feature 20 Design Review Committee Meet the Johnson Family
Exterior Modification Spotlight
Jr. Chef Academy
6
WillowsfordLife
Contents
FALL 2021
20
26
30
30 Recollections 25 Financial Focus 26 Willlowsford Conservancy 34 Just for Kids
529 Plans
A Look Back...
Backyard Conservation
The Art Gallery
Fall2021
7
Village Voice
Did you know? Over 250 members were on the Willowsford Waves Swim Team this year. Members participated in the Old Dominion Swim League and enjoyed another undefeated season. Go Waves!
8
WillowsfordLife
Village Voice
Willowsford Waves 2021 Swim Season Recap Contribution by Susan Quintas, Willowsford Resident
O
ver 250 members were on the Willowsford Waves Swim Team this season. Practices started in early June and the season concluded at the end of July. Swimmers practiced early morning Monday-Friday in their age groups. This year the Waves were able to practice at both community pools at the same time thanks to the HOA, which helped make practice easier and more successful for our residents. Congratulations to all our swimmers on an undefeated season! Swim Meets were themed including Patriotic, Western, Neon and Luau days. The team’s purpose is to offer its children the opportunity to develop and enhance their swimming abilities, learn the importance of teamwork and
Fall2021
sportsmanship, and foster social interactions and friendships in our community. Aside from Swim Meet place winners the Waves also celebrate all swimmers who beat their personal best times. In conjunction with the Swim Team, the Waves have a “Mini Waves” program for developing skill-level swimUndefeated Season in the Old Dominion Swim League! South Riding Broadlands Brambleton Franklin Park Stone Ridge Social Events – Organized by the Nagle Family Zava Zone Laser Tag Movie Night
mers. They were celebrated with a Mini Meet at the end of the season and cheered on by their “Big Wave” mentors. Want to join the fun next year? Please visit WillowsfordWaves. com for more information about the swim team.
Willowsford Waves Board Members Jon Gonzalez, President Danielle Hickey, Vice President Cheryl Rabe, Treasurer Becky Mroz, Secretary Susan Quintas, Fundraising Heidi Facey, Volunteers Dan Bono, Member-at-Large Head Coach Eric Bateman
9
SPACES FOR EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY
Signature Design Interiors creates spaces that embrace your family’s unique lifestyle – from family rooms designed for TV viewing and hanging out, open floorplans with distinct entertainment zones, bedrooms for teenagers, home gyms with all the bells and whistles, and luxurious entry foyers. To craft your beautiful and functional custom space – your design will be discovered through a collaboration of your ideas, likes or dislikes, combined with our guidance and expertise to create a home that’s authentically you. Whether a new home build, or an existing home that requires design and an update of a kitchen, basement or bathroom, Signature Design Interiors will manage the design and remodeling process. We minimize stress by presenting all the options to consider so the best decisions are made and you can rely on our concierge-style services to manage every detail.
FREE ZOOM CONSULTATION FOR WILLOWSFORD NEIGHBORS: Includes up to 90 minutes of project and budgeting advice.
SignatureDesignInteriors.com 703-599-0648 Proudly serving the greater DMV for 18 years. Custom Upholstery & Furnishings Window Treatments, Shades & Shutters Art & Accessories | Lighting | Flooring Color Consultations | Paint & Wall Coverings Kitchen, Bath & Basement Remodeling
PATIENTS LOVE
Our Fun & Friendly
DENTAL TEAM
Open 7am- 7pm & Saturdays CARING DENTISTRY
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL Cleaning, Exam & X-Rays - $79
INCLUDES FREE Take Home Teeth Whitening Kit! Valued at $376
Expires in 30 days
FREE EMERGENCY EXAM Includes Necessary X-Rays and Screening for New Patients.
Not to be combined with any other offer. New patients only. Valued at $118 Expires in 30 days
MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED
DS enport, D line Dav a F . r D DS • atistas, D Dr. Theo B
3D Imaging for Precise Implant Placement Implants TMJ Treatment
, DDS • Dr. Megan Keyton, DM • Dr. Andrew Pham D
Root Canals
Amazing Oral Surgeon
Veneers
Digital X-Rays with Less Radiation
Crowns
Our award winning, highly experienced doctors at Loudoun Dental Associates, put YOU the patient first in all they do. From the most advanced technology to the latest procedures, our mission is to provide unsurpassed care in a pleasant comfortable environment.
LoudounDentalAssociates.com | 703-542-7600
Lifestyle
First Friday Happy Hour Friday, October 1st
In the Moment Fall at Willowsford by Kacie Ward, HOA Communications & Events Director Diwali Celebration Friday, November 5th
O
ur casual series, First Friday Happy Hour, concludes on Friday, October 1st. Join us as we kick off the weekend with complimentary, seasonal beer on tap. We’ve enjoyed hosting these monthly (May through October) get-togethers and hope you’ve enjoyed them too! One of my favorite signature events, AutumnFest, returns this year. After last year’s cancellation we’re more than ready to bring all things fall to Willowsford! Join us at The Lodge on Saturday, October 23rd for live bluegrass music, horse-drawn hayrides, children’s activities, a festive biergarten, and
12
more. Please be sure to register online in advance and have your e-tickets ready. Are you a new resident of Willowsford? If so, please register for Willowsford 101 on Wednesday, October 27th. Team members from the HOA, Conservancy, Farm, and Kitchen will give you an overview of each aspect of our beautiful community. This fun, interactive evening is a great opportunity to meet staff and mingle with neighbors. Here at Willowsford, we embrace all cultures and are so excited to bring Diwali Celebration to the
WillowsfordLife
AutumnFest Saturday, October 23rd
Cozy Outdoor Movie Night Saturday, November 13th
community. Join us at Sycamore House on Friday, November 5th for a colorful feast (and more) celebrating the festival of lights! Bring a hefty blanket to snuggle under and head to our Cozy Outdoor Movie Night on Saturday, November 13th. Witness as Sycamore House Courtyard transforms into an outdoor cinema under the stars. Warm up by the firepit or indulge in a s’more, or two. Thanksgiving Sides by Willowsford Kitchen is back by popular demand. Allow our culinary team to
Fall2021
Willowsford 101 Wednesday, October 27th
Thanksgiving Sides by Willowsford Kitchen Wednesday, November 24th
take the stress out of holiday prep by pre-ordering delicious sides and desserts fresh from Willowsford Kitchen. Food will be available to pick-up Wednesday, November 24th including re-heating instructions. More details and menu options to come. You can keep up with the Lifestyle Team through the Willowsford Weekly e-blast and Willowsford Life Facebook page. Have an event or programming suggestion? Please reach out to lifestyle@willowsford.com. We would love to hear from you.
13
Peter Leonard-Morgan Realtor ®
Local knowledge, global presence Peter Leonard-Morgan | Global Real Estate Advisor Hunt Country Sotheby’s International Realty 2 W. Washington St, Middleburg, Virginia Direct - 443.254.5530 | peterleonard-morgan@hcsir.com peterleonardmorgan.com © MMXXI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
In the Kitchen
Jr. Chef Academy Hands-On Nutrition by Chef Emily Worth, Culinary Director
J
r. Chef Academy is back! Willowsford Kitchen is excited to restart this beloved program, with a few new changes. Jr. Chef Academy is a special 5-week series of classes teaching children how to plan, cook for, and throw a party. Kids learn a variety of key cooking techniques, party planning, and dinner party etiquette. The series finale is a three-course meal prepared and hosted by the kids, followed by a graduation ceremony. Registration includes
Fall2021
an apron, delicious meals, and an invitation for one parent to attend the finale dinner and graduation ceremony. New this year, we’ve added a JCA program for our youngest aspiring chefs ages 3-5. These classes are 45-minutes and a great introductory course. Kids can cook and entertain! Spending time in the kitchen can foster an interest in food and cooking that will last a lifetime.
JCA Food Explorers
Ages 3 to 5 Tuesdays (October 5th – November 2nd) 3 – 3:45 PM
JCA Half Pints
Ages 5 to 8 Tuesdays (October 5th – November 2nd) 4:30 – 6:30 PM
JCA Foodies
Ages 8 to 13 Thursdays (October 7th – November 4th) 4:30 – 7 PM
15
Family Feature
16
WillowsfordLife
Family Feature
Meet the Johnson Family Life in The Grove
Interview by Kacie Ward, HOA Communications & Events Director
W
e caught up with the Johnson family to learn all about their life in The Grove. Perry and Connie, along with their daughters, Caroline and Eleanor are delighted to call Willowsford home. Read on to learn more about them and what brought their family to our community.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourselves! A: Perry – Our family moved to Willowsford in June 2017. Connie and I have been married for nearly six years and have two daughters, Caroline Claire (4) and Eleanor Louise (3). The girls enjoy swimming, running, and riding bikes. They recently started Pre-K and Pre-School at Saint Timothy Catholic School in Chantilly. We have a chocolate Labrador mix, Lulu. We rescued her as a 9-month-old puppy over 7 years ago in North Carolina after she was found in the woods and she’s been part of our family ever since. Q: Where has your career led you? A: Connie – I work part-time as an Oncology nurse at Inova Fair Oaks. Prior to moving to Virginia, I worked at Duke University Medical Center as a Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant nurse. I attended Gannon University and obtained my BSN in 2007. Meanwhile, Perry is a Budget Analyst for Weapons Activities in the National Nuclear Security Administration of the U.S. Department of Energy. Prior to joining DOE, he served in the U.S. Army as a Special Fall2021
Forces Officer, is a combat veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, a 2001 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and a 2011 graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School of Monterey.
Q: How did you and Perry meet? A: Connie – We met in Raleigh, NC in June 2013.
Our first date was a late afternoon lunch but we ended up talking and laughing until the restaurant closed at midnight! Then in December 2014, Perry proposed on a cold, brisk night at Heinz Field despite being a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan (I’m a Pittsburgh Steelers fan.) The following year we got married at the Mackey House in Savannah, GA. Not only was Savannah a beautiful halfway point between Perry’s home state of Texas and my home state of Pennsylvania, but it was also the location of the 2013 Savannah Rock and Roll Marathon that we ran together.
Q: What does WillowsfordLife mean to you? 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 emailing HOA@willowsford.com.
17
Family Feature
A: Perry – To us Willowsford-
Life means having a close-knit community and knowing your neighbors, family activities, and festive events. Enjoying dinner, ice cream parties, and wine nights at The Lodge with community friends and family. Spending the day and evenings at the pool with the girls. Enjoying the scenic views and running the many trails with Lulu. We moved here because the community was beautiful and there was so much to offer for the children and our family.
Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?
Q: If you had to pick a favorite space in your
A: Caroline – A veterinarian! I love all animals but
A: Connie – Our favorite space is our deck. We
Q: What is your Halloween costume?
house, what would it be?
spend hours grilling, painting and doing art with the kids, hanging out with friends, playing games, relaxing and having quiet time, eating family dinners, and enjoying cocktails.
Q: What is your favorite meal to enjoy as a family?
especially horses, snakes, and dinosaurs.
A: Eleanor – Doc McStuffins Caroline – Unicorn
Q: What is your favorite Willowsford amenity? A: Eleanor – The pools, playgrounds, and trails!
A: Perry – Sushi! We first introduced our girls to
sushi before they were two years old and now it’s a family favorite. We enjoy it for a night out or grab take out and eat poolside or out back on our deck.
Q: What are your top travel destinations? A: Perry – Twice a year we take a road trip to
Texas to spend time with grandparents and family—keeping busy from sunup to sundown, swimming, horseback riding, visiting the longhorns, exploring museums, and enjoying great Cajun food. We also take many trips to western Pennsylvania near Lake Erie to spend time on the lake and beach, fishing, boating, tubing, and water skiing. We love a good fish fry, Pittsburgh Steelers games, bay front dinners, amusement and water parks, and visiting family and friends. Last winter we began taking ski trips as a family and plan to ski in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan this winter.
18
Photo Location Can you spot this Willowsford amenity? Photos were taken at Willow Lake in The Greens. Residents can enjoy passive and active outdoor activities offered here, from fishing off the pier to jogging the trail that circles Willow Lake. Brush up on your horseshoe and volleyball skills, enjoy the vast sports fields or spend the afternoon grilling out.
WillowsfordLife
• • • • •
Design Review Committee
Exterior Modification Spotlight Finished Projects
by Sierra Sims, CMCA®, Community Standards Manager s Willowsford’s Community Standards Manager, I am responsible for the day-to-day management and operation of all things covenants while also serving as liaison to the Design Review Committee. One of my favorite things about my job is seeing residents’ projects come full circle! From submission of an Exterior Modification Application, to working through the approval process, construction phase, and follow-up inspections—I love to see dreams come to fruition in these finished projects. Here’s a look at a few of the stunning modifications that can be seen throughout Willowsford.
A
Design Review Committee
Covenants Sub-Committee Bill “Skip” Powers, Chairperson Charles “Max” Harwell William “Dallas” Hubbard Karyn Moreland
20
Charles “Max” Harwell, Chairperson Scott McIntosh, Vice Chairperson William “Dallas” Hubbard Bill “Skip” Powers Paul Jeannin Caitlyn Randrup Thomas Thoma
WillowsfordLife
Rick & Rita Kennedy “We were nearing retirement so we moved to become closer to our adult sons, their wives and our four grandkids who all live about seven minutes away. My wife is a designer and we wanted to create a great outside area where we could host our friends and family for dinners and parties. We had to have an
outdoor kitchen, fireplace, separate eating area, and a water feature surrounded by gardens. While it took some time and was a significant cost, it was worth every penny and we have enjoyed it. Didn’t hurt that we also built a walk-in wine cellar in the basement to supply patio guests and keep the party going!”
Nick & Kimberly DiPiazza “We were thrilled to have our backyard project completed for Memorial Day 2021! We landed on a simple, modern saltwater pool with an outdoor kitchen and bar. Every member of the family got to choose a component of the project; Mom got her sun step, Mia chose the color, and Dad got his dream BBQ—and we all agreed the bar needed to have fire! We get use out of the space every single day so if you need to find us, don't bother ringing the doorbell because we're in the backyard. Special thanks to Ray Ditmeyer and Custom Outdoor Solutions for bringing our backyard dream to life!”
Fall2021
21
Design Review Committee
“Our family loves spending time outdoors and this is one of the main reasons we moved to Willowsford. In order to best enjoy it, we were hoping to create a comfortable outdoor lounge area that allows us to relax on the warm days and cooler evenings. The rustic pavilion gives us the protection from the elements we sometimes need, but still gives us amazing backyard views. We enjoy sunrises and sunsets in our open-air living space, and love warming up by the gas fireplace in the fall while watching a movie on the tv. Haj is from Morocco where barbecuing is a big part of the food culture. He loves to grill, smoke meats and make pizzas in our L-shaped kitchen that has plenty of space and allows the family to sit and relax while he cooks. We are very pleased with the finished project and are looking forward to many years of outdoor time in our backyard!”
Jennifer & Haj Lazhar
DRC Dates
Receive 25% Off Any Nutrition Purchase with coupon present
burnbootcamp.com/ south-riding-va/ 24820 Community Corner Plaza Chantilly, VA 20152 Corner of Tall Cedars & Gum Springs
(703) 659-9776
22
Here are 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 Community Calendar online. Dates listed herein are subject to change.
September 15th – Application Deadline 21st – Pre-Review 29th – DRC Meeting October 13th – Application Deadline 19th – Pre-Review 27th – DRC Meeting November 3rd – Application Deadline 9th – Pre-Review 17th – DRC Meeting
WillowsfordLife
TRAINING SERVICES FITNESS ON YOUR TIME - WE COME TO YOU! EROM NRAEL
NO GYM MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED CUSTOM TRAINING PROGRAMS FITNESS ON YOUR TIME
“CAN’T RECOMMEND BLOO DENTAL ENOUGH.”
“THE BEST THING I COULD DO FOR MY TEETH.”
–SHEAULEE N.
–ELIZABETH G.
“WISH I COULD GIVE THEM 10 STARS!” –MICHAEL A.
“DR. RAHIM AND HIS STAFF ARE TOP NOTCH!! 5 STARS!!” –MARI M.
“THEY HAVE BEEN WONDERFUL WITH MY WHOLE FAMILY.” –LISA L.
Financial Focus
tax breaks connected with 529 plan withdrawals. So, make sure you understand your state’s rules on K-12 expenses before taking money out of your 529 plan.
529 Plans
Not Just for College Contribution by Brian Bobby, Willowsford Resident
I
f you’ve heard of 529 plans, you might think they can only be used to help pay for college. And you wouldn’t be alone: Less than onethird of adults properly identified that a 529 plan can be used for more than just higher education, according to a survey by Morning Consult and Edward Jones. But what are these other expenses? Before we get to them, let’s review the main benefits of 529 plans. Contribution limits are high and earnings can grow tax-free if withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses such as tuition and room and board. (Withdrawals for nonqualified distributions are subject to taxes and a 10% penalty on the earnings portion.) Plus, as the account owner, you maintain control of the plan, so you can switch beneficiaries to another qualified family member, if necessary. Now, let’s consider the other uses of 529 plans, which have been made possible by various pieces of legislation over the past few years:
Fall2021
Student Loan Repayments – The average amount of student loan debt per borrower is well over $32,000, according to the Federal Reserve. So, many people welcomed the news that 529 plans could be used to repay student loans. There’s an aggregate lifetime limit of $10,000 in qualified student loan repayments per 529 plan beneficiary, plus $10,000 for each of the beneficiary’s siblings. Being able to use 529 plans to repay student loans gives you some flexibility if your family members have excess balances in their accounts. K-12 Expenses – A 529 plan can now be used to pay up to $10,000 per year in tuition expenses at private, public and religious elementary and secondary schools. This amount is per student, not per account. However, not all states allow 529 plans to be used for K-12 expenses – or to be technical, some states consider K-12 tuition to be a nonqualified 529 plan expense, which means the earnings portion of a 529 plan is subject to state income taxes and possibly a “recapture” of other state income
Apprenticeships – Not every child wants or needs to attend a college or university. And now, 529 funds can be used to pay for apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. These types of programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, are offered at community colleges and trade schools. Once students complete their apprenticeships, they often go on to well-paying careers in a variety of fields. And since these types of programs are typically far less expensive than a four-year college degree, a 529 plan can have a particularly long reach. The tax treatment of 529 plans for all these expenses can vary from state to state, so, if you move to another state after you’ve established your plan, you’ll want to know the rules. Even if you don’t move, it’s still a good idea to consult with your tax advisor about how 529 plan withdrawals will be treated. Nonetheless, a 529 plan could be valuable to you in many ways. Consider how you might want to put it to work for you and your family. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Brian Bobby is a local Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. He and his wife Megan reside in The Greens along with their three boys Brayden (5), Landon (3), and Ashton (1).
25
Willowsford Conservancy
Did you know? Willowsford Conservancy does not thrive on the Land Stewardship team alone. The efforts of the community in serving together with the staff are what makes Willowsford a special and inspiring community to live in.
26
WillowsfordLife
Backyard Conservation
Willowsford Conservancy
Inspiring Projects
by Taryn McFarland, Land Stewardship Manager
T
he arrival of spring requires quick action so that seeds and saplings are in the ground, and we get ahead of undesirable plants taking over. With two shakes of a rabbit’s tail its already mid-summer and the Conservancy team is busy with projects across all four villages. Conservation is a long-term goal and for some Willowsford residents it is a goal they choose to invest in themselves. Improving open space is a mission carried out by the entire community, and this spring several residents took on projects in Conservancy open space near them to make a difference. For Elena Sonnino and Simon Moskowitz in The Greens, their conservation project started by removing invasive vines on open space behind their home. Invasive plant removal is a large undertaking that can be slow to show big results. Simon and Elena continued by planting a native meadow in the newly liberated space. By using native species suited to the area they slowed re-growth of the invasive vines. Now they can enjoy wildflowers behind their home and appreciate the restoration of the land. In The Grange, Chris and Claudia Missmer looked to a mowed turf space near a stormwater pond and resolved to make it better. Mowed grass requires
Elena Sonnino & Simon Moskowitz, The Greens
Fall2021
much maintenance and is a wildlife ‘wasteland’ with little habitat value. The Missmers planted 37 native trees and shrubs which created a more sustainable space for wildlife and people. Trees reduce temperatures by providing shade and reflecting light, act as a wind break in winter, and offer food and shelter to wildlife. Reflecting on their work with the Conservancy, Claudia and Chris say “It was a very easy process… every aspect was worth it. We’ve heard many positive things from our neighbors, and we encourage them to look into similar opportunities.” Residents can help care for Conservancy open spaces with similar projects and by volunteering. Like resident families who collected trash on Earth Day; boy scouts who build bat and owl boxes; and the volunteers walking the trails and removing garlic mustard, monitoring wildlife, and clearing open space from debris and old barbed wire. Thank you to all who volunteer! Willowsford Conservancy does not thrive on the Land Stewardship team alone. The efforts of the community in serving together with the staff are what makes Willowsford a special and inspiring community to live in.
Chris & Claudia Missmer, The Grange
27
Willowsford Conservancy
From the Farm Walking in Another Farmer’s Shoes by Andrew Dunham, Farm Manager
W
alking in anyone’s shoes is a challenge but filling another farmer’s shoes is especially difficult, given the wide degree of specialization on farms. Many of you know that the farm has been undergoing a transition in staff this season, which has been both challenging and rejuvenating. Navigating other farmers’ systems from seeding to logistics and operations is no small undertaking. Willowsford Farm encompasses 300 acres at three locations each of which needs to be maintained, nourished, and cared for to ensure the bounty of food and healthy land continues to flourish. With a shift in staffing, change is inevitable, yet with it comes gratitude for those who farmed and cared for the land before us. Your new but experienced farm crew is rapidly learning about Willowsford life. Below are a few priorities we have identified to help us carry out our vision for the next chapter. Look for updates in the coming months on the farm social media pages and newsletters.
28
Soil Health Why we believe this is a top priority – Soil health is key to resilience, especially during increasingly extreme weather events driven by climate change. How we plan to address this – Through increased use of cover crops, rotational grazing of the pasture-raised hens, and cover fallowed periods. Engagement Why we believe this is a top priority – Connection is key to resilience, especially during times of uncertainty and the need for a greater understanding of the natural world. How we plan to address this – Through regular programming aimed at providing joyful yet educational opportunities that connect our community with the farm. Operational Efficiency Why we believe this is a top priority – Financial sustainability is key to resilience. Fine-tuning efficiencies will provide the farm with resources to focus on the preceding goals.
How we plan to address this – By best using existing infrastructure and adjusting current inefficiencies through systems that are positive both in cost savings and human capital retention.
WillowsfordLife
Willowsford Conservancy
Farm Camp 2021
W
e are not sure who had more fun, the kids or the camp instructors! We watched the kids expand their horizons by getting to know the outdoors and taking genuine interest in the natural world and the origins of their food. Most of us, I think, can find a point in time where we fell in love with the natural world, and we hope that Farm Camp provided that opportunity for our campers. Why is it important? Because this opportunity is one of the most valuable gifts we can give to our children, and the broader community. Camp helps shape the values of these young humans so they can support and appreciate a resilient local food system that is beneficial for their own
Fall2021
Farm Camp is one of the most engaging and rewarding experiences your farm crew has had all year. health, the health of our planet, and their community. With Farm Camp, these values can take root through small experiences and interactions that have a major impact on the child’s impression of a community-based food system and everything that is involved; from running their hands through soil to meeting the farmers that grow their food. It is through understanding and experiences as young people that we grow into adults who appreciate, advocate for, and protect the natural world.
29
Recollections
A Look Back... Let’s take a look back at some of our favorite Lifestyle moments from this past summer. Thank you for joining us!
Parent & Child Picnic Lunch
Father’s Day Crab Feast
Camp Willowsford
30
WillowsfordLife
Building a Charcuterie Board
Havana Nights
Luau on the Lawn Fall2021
31
The Hometown Pros Willowsford Homeowners Trust
Call us 703-463-2044
The Ultimate Backyard Let us create the ideal spot for you to relax, entertain, or play.
“Rock Water Farm far exceeded my expectations in every way. The project is flawless and I recommend them to everyone!” Scott Ramsey, Willowsford Homeowner
100+ reviews on Google
Landscape Design & Construction • Hardscape & Masonry Outdoor Kitchens • Pool Design & Installation Landscape Lighting • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance
Keep living your best life, we can handle the property care, too.
See recent Willowsford projects at RockWaterFarm.com/local
a great dental experience for your child!
Your Child’s SAFETY Comes First! Our office follows and exceeds infection control recommendations by the CDC, ADA & OSHA. Our caring, experienced dental team make sure your child is comfortable during their entire visit! Convenient Evening Hours Gentle, Caring Staff Fun, State of the Art Office Sedation Dentistry Convenient Financing
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL! Cash Price for Cleaning, Polishing, X-Ray, Dental Exam - $59 Valued at $230
Expires in 30 days
FREE
Consultation/Second Opinion Valued at $86
big smiles for little kids
CALL:703-542-7300 24565 Dulles Landing Drive, Ste 150, Dulles, VA 20166 Next to the New Walmart
PediatricDentistLoudoun.com Dr. Lance Cheng , DDS
Just for Kids
The Art Gallery Adorned Acorns
34
Ace Albrecht, Age 6
Ayna Patel, Age 6
Carson Landry, Age 6
Elsie Eickelberg, Age 5
Hailey Seitz, Age 8
Hanna Stolle, Age 9
Kate Nordenman, Age 9
Koa Albrecht, Age 8
Noelle Nam, Age 7
Pareen, Age 8
Parker Shaw, Age 4
Talia Malik, Age 6
WillowsfordLife
Next Issue Want to be featured in the winter issue of WillowsfordLife? We are approaching the time of year for building snowmen, having snowball fights, and making snow angles. Kids—use your creativity to color this snowflake. No two are alike! Kindly drop off artwork at Sycamore House or The Lodge by November 1st. All submissions become property of Willowsford HOA and may be published in a future issue. Name & Age: ___________________________________________________________________________ (may be published) Address: _______________________________________________________________________________ (used for verification purposes only)
Fall2021
35
Willowsford
Homeowners Association, Inc. 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148