Fall 2020

WillowsfordLife Fall 2020

Manager’s Letter

WillowsfordLife

A Note from Tenant House

by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® HOA Community Manager all brings many things to mind, but for me, it is budget season. While the bulk of budget preparation takes place August through October, budgeting is a year-round project. As contracts expire throughout the year, they are re-negotiated and often re-bid by multiple vendors at least every five years, if not sooner. The Association’s Procurement Policy provides 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. Do you have a suggestion for a community improvement? If so, please email HOA@willowsford.com.

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.

Once the draft is complete, it is first sent to the Board Treasurer for review followed by the rest of the Board. Revisions are incorporated and then presented to the community at the Board Meeting on November 12th, concluding with adoption of the 2021 Operating Budget. Attending this meeting is a great opportunity for residents to learn more about the business operations of the Association and provide input during Resident Comment Period.

By August, mid-year financial reports are complete and it’s time to assemble the first draft of the Operating Budget and review the Reserve Study to plan for major repair and replacements through the Reserve Forecast for the upcoming calendar year. For

Lastly, the approved budget is posted to the Document Center on WillowsfordLife.com. A notification is also distributed to the community in the Willowsford Weekly email. I hope to see you at the Budget meeting—even if that means virtually!

F

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Vol. 3, No. 4: Fall 2020

Copyright 2020 © 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

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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 market@willowsfordfarm.com Farm Stand & CSA Program

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

Fall2020

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WillowsfordLife

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13 6 Village Voice 10 Lifestyle

13 In the Kitchen

The Antidote to a Stressful Year In the Moment

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16 16 Family Feature

21 Board Room

Meet the Shah Family

Board of Directors

Hats Off

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WillowsfordLife

Contents

FALL 2020

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22 27 22 Design Review Committee 28 Willowsford Conservancy 27 Community Standards 34 Just for Kids

These Are the Facts

Nature Lens

High-Tech Home Improvements

The Art Gallery

Fall2020

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Village Voice

Did you know?

A 40-mile network of trails weaves throughout our 4,000 acre-community! The terrain is varied from mowed grass to natural surface to crushed aggregate.

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WillowsfordLife

Village Voice

The Antidote to a Stressful Year What Nature Can Do

by Jill Nolton, Willowsford Resident

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020 has been chaotic—a pandemic, schooling at home, and fights for days and days on social media.

An antidote to the wild year, if there is one—and yes, there sure is one— is nature. Even technology knows this. “Does being outdoors make you happier?” This is the question I hazily fumbled into the Google search function one recent pre-caffeinated morning. I’d woken up way too early (again) because—and I’m looking squarely at you here, stress—I couldn’t sleep and figured the internet would at least have a few statistics and opinions to help guide me.

Here are a few results: Spending Just 20 Minutes in a Park Makes You Happier – Time Magazine

Fall2020

We Are Wired to Be Outside – National Geographic Being Outside Has Profound Effects on Your Health – Forbes Magazine There you have it. My sleepy fingers didn’t even need to go to the effort of actually clicking on the links, the titles of the first few entries answered my question.

Now more than ever I appreciate— no, wait, make that crave—I crave the outdoors. Thankfully, my family chose Willowsford as our home, where preserving outside space is one of the pillars of the community’s foundation. It is the one aspect of the neighborhood that, to me, truly sets it apart from all the others, locally and it seems nationally too. Personally, the Farm was the main draw for us.

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Vegetables grown a few stones’ throws from my front porch? Yes please! Vegetables grown a few stones’ throws from my front porch during a pandemic? Yes please, again! The Farm has been valuable to me from the start and I don’t think it’s too much of a stretch to consider our proximity to it as bonafide priceless at this point in 2020.

Beyond that though, let’s talk about nature… the untouched kind, the one left un-manicured and wild. The one where patches of milkweed provide a haven to monarch caterpillars; where bluebirds will nest in crevices of tall, old trees; where a pair of deer (or sometimes even a bear!) will ramble down a hill of chest-high grasses, Laura Ingalls Wilder-style. All of this—it’s what I love, it’s why we want to be here.

My favorite spot is Broad Run Overlook Trail. It’s so close to my house—so close in fact I sometimes just stand at the foot of my driveway and gaze

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at the lumbering tall trees that mark the stream’s rounded bend below. We know it all well.

I’ve been taking my kids down to this shady, rocky spot since our first days in the neighborhood, back when only a quarter of The Grange was built and even the road infrastructure was still a plan on paper. Our discovery of this untouched set of interconnected spaces mere steps from our front door delighted and surprised us then; and now, nearly eight years later, it’s restorative in this heightened time of uncertainty. The sounds of the trickling stream, wind through the trees, birds chirping, the giggle of my daughter as she jumps across (and sometimes into) the cold water—it’s all peaceful and serene, a comfort. It’s a perfect counterbalance to turmoil.

And there’s plenty of that these days, turmoil, that is. But not to worry, there are plenty of untouched, natural spaces for all of us in all four of Willowsford’s villages! Forty miles of trails to

be exact, and though I can only speak to a handful of them, I’m confident they’re all simply marvelous… I mean, if you like this sort of thing—and I definitely do, obviously. The worn trail that spikes off of the Grant Family Campground? Engagingly rustic—in fact I found an impressive antler a couple feet off that path one time. The paved walk that circumnavigates Pin Oak Pond in The Grove? Adorable and easy, especially with a stroller. And the hike down to Cedar Pond Pavilion in The Greens? I love this hidden oasis!

These are just a few examples of nature’s opportunities awaiting us. To help us disconnect from the craziness that seems to have surrounded us for months on end and to find peace and joy and solace in the remaining months of 2020. We will indeed get through this year; we will get through it together—though I dare suggest we’ll get through it happier if we all spend a little more time outdoors.

WillowsfordLife

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Lifestyle

Jr. Ch

Outdoor Concert Series Dates TBD

In the Moment Fall at Willowsford

by Susan Walters, HOA Lifestyle Director

Street Eats

Sunday, September 13th

W

hat will fall bring to Willowsford? This question is more uncertain than usual!

With social distancing guidelines in place and safety as a top priority, bringing the community together has been a challenge. While our events may look different this season, we hope you will enjoy these new experiences. The bulk of our fall Lifestyle programming will be made up of virtual culinary and art classes, outdoor concerts and movies, and open-air group fitness sessions, along with a few of our traditional signature events.

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Street Eats on Sunday, September 13th offers residents the opportunity to gather together (while still maintaining social distance) on The Lodge lawn from 12 – 4 PM. Several local food trucks will serve up a variety of fare for purchase from the parking lot. Spend the afternoon sampling and snacking while listening to the band play overlooking Willow Lake. September will also introduce more culinary programming. For the very first time your favorite culinary offerings, Jr. Chef Academy and Lunch & Learn, will

WillowsfordLife

hef Academy: Virtual Edition Dates TBD

Art Class To-Go Dates TBD

be put on virtually. Jr. Chef Academy is a wonderful opportunity for children of all ages to learn to properly prep, cook, and serve food while understanding exactly where their food comes from.

Stay tuned for details!

On Saturday, October 17th we celebrate AutumnFest. While this year’s celebration may be on a smaller scale than usual, the community will still have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious BBQ meal from Willowsford Kitchen, dip and decorate caramel apples, and listen to bluegrass

Fall2020

AutumnFest

Saturday, October 17th

Outdoor Movie Series Dates TBD

music on the lawn. There may even be horsedrawn hayrides to look forward to!

We are also planning many outdoor movies and concerts, and exploring the option of outdoor culinary classes and other events. Do you have an idea for a Lifestyle event that could be accommodated to suit COVID-19 restrictions?

Email your ideas to lifestyle@willowsford.com.

You can find out what’s coming your way by checking the Willowsford Weeklys or visiting the Calendar at WillowsfordLife.com.

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In the Kitchen

When we bought in Willowsford, we loved the idea of this community and all the offerings that it provided. Chef Bonnie, you made Willowsford come alive and it was deliciously fun! You are innovative and creative. We so love everything you brought and shared with us from dinners, guest chefs, and classes, but mainly your warmth and presence! We wish you and your family the best and will surely miss you!

—Sharon & Gary Eisenberg

Hats Off

Farewell Chef Bonnie What’s Next for Willowsford Kitchen?

from Team Willowsford

A

s Chef Bonnie Moore begins a new chapter in her life, we are grateful for her time at Willowsford. As you know, Chef Bonnie has been an integral part of Willowsford’s Lifestyle & Culinary programming for the past decade. As Culinary Director, she worked closely with the Lifestyle Team to plan, coordinate, and execute amazing culinary programs such as Jr.

Fall2020

Chef Academy, Lunch & Learn, Date Night in the Kitchen and many other unique, farm-to-table experiences for the Willowsford community. Her passion for teaching others where their food comes from and how to utilize fresh, local ingredients is inspiring. We will always remember the time, dedication, passion, vision, talent, kindness, and (of course) amazing food she brought to the table.

We are working hard to continue, grow, and expand the culinary program that you’ve come to love! Stay tuned for details and new offerings.

There will be upcoming virtual classes and guest chefs to look forward to and we hope to welcome you back into Willowsford Kitchen again soon, once it’s safe to do so.

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In the Kitchen

A Note from Chef Bonnie

Dear Willowsford Family, After 10 wonderful years, it is with great sadness that I need to step aside from my role at Willowsford and move with my family to New Hampshire. From designing the kitchens to developing a suite of successful culinary programs, I have loved every second of my involvement in this extraordinary community.

Dear Chef Bonnie, thank you for everything you’ve done during your time here at Willowsford! We have enjoyed sharing in your passion for food, wine, and the farm-to-table lifestyle. We have thoroughly enjoyed every class, camp, dinner, wine duel, and date night, not only because we adore food and cooking, but because you brought so much love, passion, humor, and joy to each event. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to learn from and cook with you. It has been a treasured experience to enjoy your beautiful dinners. And it has been a true joy to get to know you. Thank you for so many wonderful memories and recipes.

Warmest wishes to you and your family as you head off to your new adventure. With much love —The Liesemer Family and many thanks.

I will stay on as a consultant for however long necessary to ensure the continued success and growth of the Kitchen programs we have developed over the years.

Willowsford has been my home and you, the residents, have been my second family.

I am truly heartbroken. I don’t believe in goodbyes, so I’m not going to say them.

Instead, when the world gets back on the right track, I will be back as a guest chef and we will celebrate together!

All my love, Chef Bonnie P.S. If you happen to find your way to Jackson, NH, please visit and I will happily make you dinner.

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Chef Bonnie, I’ve enjoyed all your programs but especially Lunch & Learn where we explored cuisines from around the world and enjoyed all the yummy dishes with good friends and a glass of wine at the end of each class. You gave me the confidence to be more daring in the kitchen. We will miss you and wish you all the best in your new life —Marie Milcent in New Hampshire.

WillowsfordLife

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Family Feature

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WillowsfordLife

Family Feature

Meet the Shah Family Life in The Grove

Interview by Kacie Ward, HOA Communications Coordinator

W

e caught up with the Shah family to learn all about their life in The Grove. Ravi and Rupal, along with their triplets Ariya, Dhilan and Jasmin have called Willowsford home for the past three years. Read on to discover what brought them to Swart Farm Drive!

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourselves!

A: Ravi – We got married in November of 2008

and were living in D.C. at the time. Fast forward a couple years to 2011 and we had moved to Silver Spring, Maryland. It was there we brought home our triplets, Ariya, Dhilan and Jasmin—now nine years old! We’ve since added Mango, a mini bernedoodle, to the family. I’ve been in the accounting industry for years and am currently a Revenue Manager for a start-up. Rupal is a Sr. Compliance Manager and was recently at a social media advertising company building a compliance program from scratch. She’s got a creative and entrepreneurial spirit and hopes to one day start her own gig. Life has slowed down a bit due to COVID, but you’ll usually find us hustling and bustling between the kids’ activities (singing, piano, art, robotics, yoga, tennis, cooking classes, etc.) and our own personal commitments and events.

Q: What brought you to Willowsford?

A: Rupal - We were quickly outgrowing our townhouse and decided to start house-hunting when we were lucky enough to stumble upon Willowsford. Ravi is a die-hard Maryland guy so convincing him to move to Virginia was not an easy task! One day we decided to do a drive through Fall2020

tour of the neighborhood and loved how all the parents were hanging outside with their neighbors and kids were running around without a care in the world. All we ever wanted was for our kids to be able to play outside and grow up having an amazing childhood. Ravi couldn’t help but admit I was right and we made the move to The Grove in the summer of 2017!

Q: What does WillowsfordLife mean to you?

Rupal - WillowsfordLife equals a sense of com-

A: munity. There is so much this community offers,

it’s really hard to pick our favorite. From hanging out with neighbors, to taking hikes on the numerous paths and swimming in the resort-style pools, Willowsford offers something for everyone. We are so happy we decided to venture out to Aldie that one fine day. I can’t believe it’s already been three years. It is true what they say, time flies when you’re having fun. We’ve met some amazing folks and truly feel like our neighbors have become family!

Q: If you had to

pick a favorite space in your house, what would it be?

A: Ravi - Definite-

ly our kitchen island. It’s the central point of our home and where we always end up hanging out, wheth-

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.

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Family Feature

er it’s one parent working or taking a video call, the kids doing their homework or reading a book, making meals together, and even our most recent project of creating candles for COVID. The kids started an initiative making soy candles to help support those affected by the pandemic and donating their profits to charity. We are so proud of what they’ve accomplished!

own way. Even though we have triplets, the only similarity they seem to share is their birthday. We are big on letting the kids pick activities they individually like, instead of making them all do the same thing. The most important tip is never compare them to each other.

Q: How did your family spend time during

A: Ariya, Dhilan & Jasmin - Being triplets! We

quarantine?

A: Ravi - We have to say we feel very lucky to

be living in a community like Willowsford during quarantine. We have been able to go on so many gorgeous sunset walks and explore many new trails and areas that we had never been to before. Each day is a new experience and even though we haven’t been able to really explore other areas or travel, living in Willowsford provides its own sense of adventure!

Q:

What might your neighbors be surprised to learn about you?

A: Rupal - We are pretty much an open book and

our kids love to spill the beans on everything!

Give them a few minutes of undivided attention and you will know all our secrets. This is probably not much of a surprise, but Ravi is an amazing cook! Also, my maiden name was Shah so I never had to change my name.

Q: Do you have any tips for other families with multiples?

A: Rupal - Enjoy the moment because they grow

up too fast, all at the same time. Embrace their differences and treat them as individuals. Take time to make each feel special in their

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Q: What makes your family special? are all so different but complement each other well. We love our family and all the fun things we get to do together like weekend adventures exploring different cities, going to the movies, trying new restaurants, and traveling to places like South Africa and getting to experience a safari and meet penguins! We are also very close with our extended family and love seeing them whenever we can.

Q: What is your favorite fall activity?

A: Ariya, Dhilan & Jasmin - Pumpkin carving and jumping in a big, crunchy pile of leaves!

Photo Location Can you spot this Willowsford amenity? Photos were taken at Swart Farmstead Historical Park in The Grove. This park highlights the remaining foundations of a farmstead that belonged to Adrian and Martha Swart in the second half of the 1800s. Excavation and research helped Willowsford reveal how the Swarts, a prosperous farm family, worked and lived. Visit this historical park to learn more about the story of the land we live on!

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QA &

Board Room

Board of Directors Q&A Operating Budget Harry Pugh Board of Directors, Treasurer

E

ach year the Board of Directors adopts an annual Operating Budget.

Please consider attending the Board Meeting on November 12th at 5:30 PM when the Board will review, discuss, and adopt the 2021 Operating Budget. As a reminder, the Agenda and Open Session Package are always available for the community to view online in the Document Center, in advance of the meeting. Notification is also placed in the Willowsford Weekly email.

Below are a few FAQs pertaining to the Operating Budget.

Q: What sources of income are factored into the Operating Budget?

A: In addition to homeowner assessment income, the budget also includes builder assessment income, capital contributions from home sales, sponsorship and advertising, lifestyle programming, and amenity rentals.

Q:

What are the Association’s principal expenses?

A: The Operating Budget

earmarks funds toward insurance, ground maintenance, resident trash service and other contracted services, professional services (legal, IT, financial, staffing,

Fall2020

etc.), lifestyle programming, reserve funding, and more.

Q: What is the Association’s reserve fund?

A: A reserve fund is an account

dedicated to major repair and replacement expenditures.

The Association allocates money over time as recommended by a Reserve Specialists so that, when a costly repair becomes necessary, cash reserves are available for the expense without sacrificing day-to-day operations.

What happens if there is

Q: a surplus at the end of the year?

A: Section 12.2 of the Community Charter addresses sur-

Upcoming Board Meeting Schedule September 24th 5:30 PM November 12th 5:30 PM Attendees are welcome to address the Board directly during Resident Comment Period at the beginning of each meeting.

To view past and present Board Meeting agendas, minutes, open session packages, presentations, and more please visit WillowsfordLife.com > Document Center > Community > Board Room.

HOA@willowsford.com

Board of Directors Mike Russiello, President Lisa Bradford, Vice-President Harry Pugh, Treasurer Frank Blackstone, Secretary William Atwill, Director plus allocation. Any potential surplus at the end of the year could be put toward Repair & Replacement Reserves, Capital Improvement Reserves, carry forward to offset assessments for the following year, or any combination of the above. A surplus cannot be given back as a cash-in-hand type of refund.

Q: Will assessments be re-

duced due to pool and gym closures?

A: The Board and Management

Team continue to monitor the financials, but it appears the Association may have an Operating surplus at the end of 2020 which may be utilized to manage the 2021 assessments.

Q: Who handles the Association’s finances?

A: The Association contracts

SFMC, Inc. for financial management and assessment collection. They offer a variety of payment options including online payment, direct debit, and checks. To view account status and make assessment payments online, please visit SFMCinc.com.

WillowsfordLife.com/217/Board-Room

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Design Review Committee

These Are the Facts Design Review Process

by Bill ”Skip” Powers, DRC Member

I

t was a simple design.

A stone retention wall and some patio pavers that would include a basic firepit for those crisp evenings. Let’s see, there were seven pages of the application (thankfully only three of which required my completion), a plat (what the heck was that?), renderings of the project that included dimensions, pictures of the home showing the proposed location, a second plat to show landscape/elevation impact, brochures to show the stone color and size, and more. 20 pages altogether. I remember thinking, this is half of a graduate thesis and took several hours to complete! With nervous anticipation I dropped off the application and waited. I showed up to the Design Review Committee meeting with bated breath and stood by as the committee spent five minutes reviewing, held brief conversation, and lo and behold... APPROVED (cue angelic music).

As most know, Willowsford and the Founder recently transitioned the HOA Board of Directors and Design Review Committee to residents. That’s right, your neighbors willingly serve their time to ensure the Founders’ vision is preserved, protected and reflects the way in which Willowsford is markedly set apart from other communi-

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ties. Four resident homeowners, in tandem with a consultant and the DRC Liaison, Sierra, spend countless hours each month reviewing Exterior Modification Applications to ensure consistency with the Design Standards (yes, that would be the 78-page document with Appendices, adding several more).

Why the bevy of very specific language and requirements?

Simple—to ensure continuation of our community’s unrivaled architectural beauty.

For many new owners or DRC submission rookies, the process can feel extremely overwhelming! It was for me and continues to be, as my own projects have gone from simple (exterior lighting) to complex (pool and landscaping). However, with temperance, applications do not need to be the bane of our existence in this beautiful community. Utilizing WillowsfordLife.com to access the Design Standards, checklists, FAQs, and Exterior Modification Application should help ease

Design Review Committee Charles “Max” Harwell Scott McIntosh William “Dallas” Hubbard Bill “Skip” Powers Paul Jeannin

any frustrations you may have regarding submission. In hopes of providing some clarification, here are a few facts about the process.

FACT:

The vast majority of DRC applications are approved!

In 2019 over 90% of the near 700 applications reviewed by the DRC were approved. By mid-2020, Association staff and the DRC collectively reviewed and made determinations on more applications than all of 2019 combined.

Currently, the DRC reviews 150+ completed applications each month. That does not include applications reviewed by Association staff for security cameras, four-board fencing, basketball goals, and single tree planting or removal. Applications not approved are typically deferred for more information and resubmitted.

Applications are intensive and require several pieces of information. Investing time to read the Exterior Modification Application, Design Standards, requirements, applicable checklists, and review processes will all but ensure your package is substantially complete and on its way to that angelic APPROVED. FACT:

You can use any contractor of your choice to complete your project.

WillowsfordLife

Design Review Committee

Paul’s Picks

Cherokee Princess Dogwood Cornus florida

DRC Seasonal Favorites

by Paul Jeannin, DRC Member Many of you know me as a member of the DRC and reviewer of your Exterior Modification Application. Hopefully as you drive through the community you are impressed by the quality of the outdoor projects our residents have implemented. As a Landscape Architect I’m always on the look-out for new plants and improved varieties. Like many of you, I enjoy gardening and incorporating these species into my own yard. Here are three of my seasonal favorites!

Red-Twig Dogwood Cornus sericea With fall approaching, now is the time to start thinking about your winter landscape. The Red-Twig Dogwood is a medium sized ornamental native shrub. It prefers part shade to full sun and tolerates a variety of soil conditions, although well-drained soils are best. It is generally disease free and deer resistant! In the spring it produces creamy, white flowers and during summer it maintains medium to dark green foliage. The real show begins in the fall as the leaves fall and the stems turn to a brilliant, red color. Use this shrub as an accent or as a border planting and enjoy the winter color it adds to your landscape!

There is no need to only use contractors who are familiar with Willowsford’s application process. While many residents have benefited from advisory services of contractors who offer to fill out your Exterior Modification Application for

Fall2020

On the subject of Dogwoods, I should be sure to mention the Cherokee Princess Dogwood. This selection is an excellent native flowering tree. Its height and width at maturity in suburban yards will typically peak at 15 to 20 feet. It is best suited for morning sun and afternoon shade. It prefers well drained soils and this variety is fairly disease and pest resistant. Its main attraction are the wide white flowers that are abundant in the spring! Use this tree as an ornamental addition to your landscape and enjoy.

Sweetbay Magnolia Magnolia virginiana The Sweetbay Magnolia is another native flowering tree that would make an excellent addition to your yard! The size is just a tad smaller than the Cherokee Princess Dogwood and it also produces white flowers which bloom in May and June. The Sweetbay Magnolia can grow in full sun or part shade and prefers well drained moist soils. Note that it doesn’t like windy or dry locations so you will likely have to provide supplemental watering in the summer. It is fairly disease and pest resistant. Because of its size, consider this tree near a patio or use it as an attractive ornamental accent.

you, this is not always necessary. Following the applicant responsibilities and checklists, as well as obtaining the proper renderings, drawings, material lists, and pictures from your contractor should all but ensure a completed package.

Be mindful that an application must have all of the applicable aforementioned items in order to be considered complete and ready for Pre-Review.

FACT:

Each and every resident is treated the same.

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Willowsford’s Community Charter is applied universally across all villages and sections. If you receive a violation notice from HOA staff, simply review the instructions within your notice and contact staff if you require clarification or assistance. The focus of the HOA is compliance, not enforcement.

Need an extension to remedy an infraction? Please reach out. Need clarification on how to apply for a modification you already installed and were unaware required approval first?

Again, please reach out. They are here for you!

Community Standards Inspections are conducted routinely and are designed to ensure consistency in our community that aligns with the vision of the Founder. The Willowsford Weekly will inform you which villages and sections are being inspected over the next several months. If you are not receiving these emails, please visit the “Notify Me” tab on WillowsfordLife.com to sign-up for notifications.

FACT:

You can save on DRC application fees!

Applications are tiered, by level of complexity, and assessed a fee to cover the reviews and administrative costs. Residents may group submissions and pay a single application fee, equal to the most complex project submitted. For more information on the tiered application costs, see page seven of the Exterior Modification Application.

FACT:

Planning ahead will reduce stress.

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Exterior Modification Applications 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.

WillowsfordLife.com and the Willowsford Weekly publish key dates for submission deadlines, pre-review, and final DRC review. If you want assurance that your application will be deemed complete by the submission deadline, feel free to reach out to DRC@willowsfordlife.com for confirmation your application is good to go for a Pre-Review Meeting. The DRC volunteer staff meet twice monthly to review and provide recommendation following initial review by Association staff to assure completeness of your submitted application. You are highly encouraged to submit at least one month prior to your desired start date to potentially mitigate any delays.

FACT:

The HOA staff and DRC are here to help!

That’s right, built in technical assistance. If you have a question about your application or are unsure of a particular part of the process, please email DRC@willowsfordlife. com. These days especially are tougher than usual, and the HOA staff and DRC treat oth-

September 2nd – Application Deadline 8th – Pre-Review 16th – DRC Meeting October 7th – Application Deadline 13th – Pre-Review 21st – DRC Meeting November 4th – Application Deadline 10th – Pre-Review 18th – DRC Meeting

ers with respect and courtesy in hopes to receive the same.

The HOA staff and resident volunteers work tirelessly for the community’s benefit. Keeping your needs in the forefront while still following set protocol and deadlines to ensure that all is fair in love and Willowsford.

My friends and neighbors, please know, we all have shared equities in preserving the beauty of our community.

Our ranking as one of the “Best Communities in America” is a result of hard work to preserve the Founders’ vision. Your HOA and DRC are working hard to be your advocate and community stewards.

If you have suggestions for improvement to the current process or an interest to serve your community, you are encouraged to attend a Board Meeting and speak during open session.

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Community Standards

High-Tech Home Improvements Gadgets Galore & More

by Sierra Sims, HOA Community Standards Manager

T

hanks to forward-thinking engineers and designers who have embraced the possibilities of new technology, our home lives have become easier, safer, and more comfortable.

Like it or not, technological advances are transforming the way we live. Many residents choose to add enhancements to their home which can increase its value and add to the overall aesthetic. Here are a few tips and reminders regarding high-tech home improvements.

Exterior Modifications Audio Visual Systems If you have an outdoor living space, you may wish to install a television or video projector so you can watch movies, sporting events and other shows while enjoying the beauty of your yard. If you’re thinking about installing an outdoor television, sound system, or video monitor take the first step and review the Design Standards prior to submitting an Exterior Modification Application for approval. Please be courteous to your neighbors and remember that sound levels are subject to the Loudoun County noise ordinance.

Fall2020

Security Devices & Cameras Keep your home and property safe by monitoring what’s happening outside with a connected camera. Did you know that security cameras are one of the modifications eligible for Administrative Review? This means that while you must still apply for approval, there is no fee and decisions are typically provided within 10 days of submission of your completed application! Checklists for Administrative Review items are available on WillowsfordLife. com. Please keep in mind that security cameras shall not be aimed toward adjacent homes and the applicant is responsible for adhering to all governing and privacy regulations.

Solar Panels There are many reasons why homeowners may desire going solar but improving the environment and cutting energy costs are most common. Many residents are aware that solar is a great home efficiency upgrade and are eager to reduce their carbon footprint while also improving property value. Please review the Design Guidelines for requirements on location, size, color, and other specifications prior to submitting an Exterior Modification Application.

Comments, Questions & Concerns We’re Here for You! Although the buildings remain closed, staff continue to perform duties Monday-Friday 9 AM - 5 PM. For general comments, concerns, or maintenance requests regarding street trees, open space, common areas, etc. please visit WillowsfordLife.com and click the “Submit a Request” button. On the other hand, questions regarding Exterior Modification Applications should be directed to DRC@willowsfordlife.com. As always, you are welcome to call Sycamore House or The Lodge to speak with a staff member directly.

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Willowsford Conservancy

Nature Lens

Conservancy Photo Contest ach day, Willowsford residents are surrounded by nature’s unique and ever-changing beauty. To showcase nature in Willowsford, the Conservancy invites residents to participate in a photography project that spotlights our community’s shared experience. Thank you to all residents who participated with summer entries!

E

Grass Around Trail Andy Murphy

Small Turtle

Greens Farm

Hebba Shamia

Reanna Nagel

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WillowsfordLife

Willowsford Conservancy

Did you know?

Sunset fron The Lodge

All residents are invited to participate in a photography project that spotlights our community’s shared experience. This photo contest is open to Willowsford residents of all skill levels and ages. Each season, three winners will be randomly chosen to win a Conservancy prize!

Chaitanya Chandra

Fall2020

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Willowsford Conservancy

specific ecosystems and open space parcels as well as take a “big picture” view of the land.

A well-functioning and healthy landscape is built upon the legs of diverse habitat types.

Here at Willowsford Conservancy, we promote diversity by carefully evaluating each site—envisioning its potential and determining its needs.

Standing on the Legs of Diversity Ecosystem Variety

by Taryn McFarland, Land Stewardship Manager

A

t every turn and with each decision we make at the Conservancy we ask: what is best for this ecosystem? Because nature is complex, the question almost never has a simple answer. Even so, our mission as land stewards calls us to find optimal solutions.

A fantastic variety of ecosystem types exist within Willowsford. Each provides resources for unique groups of wildlife, and each kind of habitat requires distinct attention in how we establish and care for it.

Fall usually is the time to seed and plant trees.

Through the help of residents who volunteer to plant and water trees, we can support more new reforestation sites while maintaining and improving existing habitat projects.

As we strive to find answers for the ecological challenges our community faces—including invasive plants, deer over-browsing, climate change, soil damage, new pests and diseases—we look at

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In The Grove, we are developing a forested wetland (the Darkmoor Wetland) from an old farm pond that had poor water quality. Wetlands are incredibly valuable to wildlife and the people living near it.

Wetlands provide storm water management and improve water quality. They are vital habitat for unique bird, frog, and turtle species that need the aquatic plants and water patterns found within.

In The Grant, the Conservancy is planning a meadow restoration. The meadow plant community will, over time, restore the severely disturbed soil while providing flowers for pollinators, hunting grounds for birds of prey, and a beautiful viewshed for homeowners. In The Greens, the Conservancy partnered with residents on a reforestation project.

As these trees mature, they provide wildlife habitat while improving residents’ backyard view. The Grange holds an excellent example of habitat diversity in the Wet Meadow. With its vernal pools and wetland grasses, this area thrives with birds and pollinators.

Throughout Willowsford are examples of site-specific approaches the Conservancy takes in managing our community’s open space to its greatest potential to create a refuge for a booming variety of wildlife and healthy, inspiring nature spaces for Willowsford residents. The next time you walk the trails, keep an eye out for these special areas and enjoy seeing nature at its best.

WillowsfordLife

member’s personal, perfect share. Harvie’s convenient online accounts lets members change or add to their veggie boxes each week. For the first time, the same customization will be available for meats this winter.

Sowing New Ideas From the Farm

by Ashley Stallings-Swensen, Sales & Marketing Manager

F

arming is a layered endeavor. We are in tune with each day as it comes yet always thinking a season ahead. Sign-ups for Winter CSA are just around the corner! We are excited to welcome new members into our Farm-ily.

Even more, we’re humbled by the demand for farm shares this year and the interest in eating locally grown food. If you missed the chance to become shareholders this spring, Winter CSA is an amazing time to jump headfirst into seasonal eating.

Growing fresh food carries on in all weather. At Willowsford Farm, color and flavor have no “off season”. When snow blankets the fields, we fill your weekly veggie boxes with sweet scarlet beets, golden squash, and nutrient-dense greens. Seasonal eating in winter is robust, savory, and delicious. See for yourself!

Even as experienced cold season farmers we restrict our Winter CSA capacity to one quarter of summer membership. Sign-ups are limited and sell out quickly. If you want to treat yourself to year-round fresh, certified organic produce grown in your community, don’t wait! Enrollment begins in September. Our website, social media, and Willowsford Conservancy’s ‘Buzz’ e-news will have all the details.

Our high-tech software platform, Harvie, manages the CSA subscriptions. Harvie is unique because it combines each member’s preferences and our harvest information with an algorithm to build each

Fall2020

We partner with Whiffletree Farm in Warrenton, VA to provide premium grass-fed, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free meats.

Farmer Jesse Straight raises black angus beef, lamb, and poultry to supplement our own Willowsford Farm chicken and heritage pork. We offer multiple cuts, from steaks to roasts to our signature sausages, now customized to your family’s eating habits. Take your pot roast, your seared pork chops and rack of lamb to the next level with the superior flavor of pasture raised meats. Customize your share each week for your weekly meal plan. Never run out of your favorite flavor of Willowsford grillers, whether that’s Andouille, Maple, or Rosemary Garlic!

Another “first” this winter: our foray into partnering with experienced shareholders as CSA site hosts.

Site hosts offer their porch or garage as a pickup location for a small number of neighbors. This helps us make CSA boxes more convenient throughout Willowsford. We’ll drop off share boxes at your home at a set time each week, and your nearby friends will have a 3-hour window to stop by and pick up their items. Site hosts only need to provide a safe location sheltered from rain and snow—no access to your home or additional monitoring is required. At the end of the pickup window, you’ll simply stack the empty boxes and store them for us until we come again the next week. In recognition for the special service site hosts provide, we discount your share for the season! Interested? Email us at farm@willowsfordfarm.com to volunteer.

Our popular home delivery service and Farm Stand pickup continue. You’ll also continue to have your favorite pantry items and baked goods for purchase alongside your veggies. Each Winter CSA e-mail has meal plans, storage tips and harvest insights we send your way. Most importantly, our commitment to our Farm-ily stays strong throughout each season. We are here to turn warm summer soil into winter meals, to grow food and community. Be well!

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Welcome Taryn McFarland Land Stewardship Manager

Lasting & Timeless Beauty!

Willowsford Conservancy welcomes Taryn McFarland as our new Land Stewardship Manager! Taryn grew up in the Shenandoah Valley where she worked on farms and ranches, realizing that managing land is where her passion lays. She obtained a B.S. from Virginia Tech in Environmental Resources Management with a minor in Urban Forestry.

While studying at Virginia Tech, Taryn worked on a large wilderness operation, completing research on invasive plant removal and reforestation of native species, and monitoring 2,500 acres of forest. Here at Willowsford, Taryn manages a crew of three land stewardship employees who build and maintain Conservancy trails, amenities and infrastructure, perform tree work and habitat restoration, provide nature education, and maintain and improve the Conservancy’s 2,000 acres of natural open space for resident use. In her free time, Taryn enjoys hiking the Appalachians or working in her garden.

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WillowsfordLife

Just for Kids

Next Issue Want to be featured in the winter issue of WillowsfordLife? Foxes are nocturnal omnivores that stay active throughout the winter months. You may even spot them (or their tracks) along the snowy trails. Kids—use your creativity to decorate the fox above. 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)

Fall2020

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Willowsford

Homeowners Association, Inc. 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148