Winter 2022 by WillowsfordLife

WillowsfordLife Winter 2022

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.

Manager’s Letter

WillowsfordLife Vol. 5, No. 1: Winter 2022

A Note from Tenant House by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® HOA Community Manager

or many, this time of year is a time of gratitude, joy, and neighborly goodness. Speaking of being neighborly, if you haven’t seen the Civility Pledge the Board adopted recently, please check it out under the “Resources” tab on WillowsfordLife.com. At its core, the Civility Pledge is a commitment to fostering a climate of open discussion and debate, mutual respect, and tolerance between all who live in, work in, and visit our community. We are now back to full service with a robust offering of lifestyle, culinary, and enrichment programming. If you participated in the recent community survey, thank you! Team Willowsford is looking forward to all the great things 2022 has in store and incorporating your valuable feedback. Shortly after the new year, be on the look out for informa-

tion about the upcoming Annual Meeting and Board Election. There will be three (3) seats up for election in March with a call for candidates being the first step. If you are interested in running for the HOA Board of Directors, please contact me to set up a meeting. I will review HOA operations, Board roles, and answer any questions you may have. Lastly, you have already received a summary of the 2022 Budget via email, but the summary is also included in this issue of WillowsfordLife, along with the 2022 Board Meeting schedule. This information, as well as our calendar of upcoming events and activities can be viewed online at WillowsfordLife.com. On behalf of Team Willowsford, we wish you and your family health and happiness in the year to come!

Copyright 2022 © 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 American Disposal – (703) 368-0500 Trash – Tuesday & Friday Recycling – Friday Yard Waste – Friday 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

Winter2022

WillowsfordLife

11 16

Village Voice

Amenity Rentals

11 Community Standards

Winter Weather Procedures

12 Lifestyle 15 In the Kitchen 16 Family Feature

In the Moment

Lunch & Learn

Meet the Hoffman Family

WillowsfordLife

Contents

WINTER 2022

20 Design Review Committee 30 Recollections 34 Just for Kids 24 Board Room 26 Willowsford Conservancy

DRC Announcements

A Look Back...

2022 Annual Budget

The Art Gallery

Volunteerism

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Village Voice

Did you know? Nine couples hosted their weddings at Sycamore House or The Lodge in 2021. We wish all our newlyweds a lifetime of love and happiness! Thank you for choosing Willowsford as the backdrop for your big day.

WillowsfordLife

Village Voice A: Congratulations! Many

happy couples have hosted their wedding celebration at Willowsford throughout the years. We now offer a Wedding Package which includes a complimentary rehearsal session, furniture removal/arrangement, private space for the bridal party, dedicated on-site staff member(s) and more.

Amenity Rentals Your Celebration Awaits

by Ellie Olney, HOA Resident Services Manager re you planning a gathering in the coming year? Willowsford’s resident-exclusive buildings are the perfect backdrop for an extensive variety of private events including milestone birthdays, retirement celebrations, weddings, memorial ceremonies, graduation parties, and business meetings. For more information, or to get your party planning underway, please reach out to the Lifestyle Team at lifestyle@willowsford. com. Your celebration awaits!

Q: Which amenities are available for reservation through the Association? A: Various amenities throughout all four villages are available for private reservation. Options include the main community buildings Sycamore House and The Lodge, three outdoor pavilions (Pin Oak Park Pavilion, Twin Ponds Park Pavilion, and Everfield Park Pavilion), and pool party space at Sycamore Pool and Lodge Pool. Q: How do I book a reservation? A: Please visit WillowsfordLife. com > Amenities > Amenity Rentals for additional infor-

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Q: Can we hire a DJ for our

mation on rates and agreement terms then contact a member of the Lifestyle Team with dates and questions. To book a reservation, we require a completed rental agreement along with two separate checks for the applicable security deposit and rental fee. Sorry, no cash or credit cards accepted.

Q: How much notice is re-

quired to book a space?

A: Thirty days’ notice is re-

quired for reservations at Sycamore House or The Lodge, at least two weeks’ notice for pavilion reservations, and at least one weeks’ notice for pool party space reservations. This requirement is to ensure ample preparation time and staffing for your event.

Q: What if I only want to rent a small space for a meeting?

A: We offer that option as well. Presentation ready rooms are available for business meetings, corporate trainings, and more. Please contact the Lifestyle Team for additional details. Q: What about weddings?

reservation?

A: Absolutely. Vendors such as

DJs, bartenders, and caterers are permitted. Please view the rental agreement for additional details and requirements.

Q: How late can a building reservation extend?

A: The buildings can be re-

served until 10 PM Sunday through Thursday and until 12 AM Friday and Saturday. Can my non-resident friend Q: rent an amenity?

A: No. As a private communi-

ty, Willowsford amenities are available for resident use only.

Virtual Amenity Tour Interested in booking a reservation? We are pleased to offer a new virtual amenity tour! Please visit WillowsfordLife.com > Amenities > Amenity Rentals to view our interactive floorplans, breathtaking photos, reservation rates, and more. Allow our team to facilitate your next special gathering by emailing lifestyle@ willowsford.com.

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Community Standards

Winter Weather Procedures Feelin’ Frosty

by Susan Walters, CMCA® HOA Assistant Manager

here are multiple entities responsible for snow removal throughout the community. For more information on winter weather procedures and to view the most up-to-date Street Responsibility List, please visit WillowsfordLife.com > Resources > Snow Removal. Association Responsible for sidewalks and 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. Homeowners Responsible for driveways, fire hydrants, and any sidewalk or bus stop adjacent to your lot and any roads with a common shared driveway (Pipestems). It is recommended that you shovel your driveway and sidewalk after the plow comes through. 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.

New Trash & Recycling Vendor American Disposal Willowsford welcomes a new trash and recycling vendor, American Disposal, to our streets in 2022! It is our hope that this change will be seamless and provide a higher level of service to residents. Please check the Willowsford Weekly emails or WillowsfordLife. com > Resources > Trash & Recycling for more information and details on the switch. Trash Schedule Trash: Tuesday & Friday Recycling: Friday Yard Waste: Friday

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Builders Roads as identified in the Street Responsibility List, generally where homes are still under construction. For questions or concerns please reach out to the specific builder. Developers Roads as identified in the Street Responsibility List.

Bus Stop Parking Reminder Willowsford has many children who ride the bus to and from school. In cold weather, many parents drive their children to and from the bus stop. While waiting for the bus, please ensure you are not blocking driveways, impeding trash pick-up or parking along both sides of the road making it harder for others to safely navigate the street.

Lifestyle

Date Night in the Kitchen Saturday, January 15th

In the Moment Winter at Willowsford by Kacie Ward, CMCA® HOA Communications & Events Director Valentine’s Dinner Saturday, February 12th & Sunday, February 13th

he next installment of Date Night in the Kitchen takes place on Saturday, January 15th. Cook tasty, seasonal cuisine with your significant other using products from Willowsford Farm and other local purveyors. You’ll leave with a full belly and knowledge to re-create the meal at home. Best of all, there’s no dishes to do! Willowsford Kitchen launches Food Explorers & Grownups on Tuesday, January 25th, a new program designed for children ages 2-4 along with their grownups. Come explore many new and familiar foods on a rainbow journey! Activities include food-related crafts, making colorful food rainbows,

tasting with our senses, and playing with food to make it more exciting. For older kids, Jr. Chef Academy is a special 5-week series of classes teaching children how to plan, cook for, and throw a party. The series finale is a three-course meal prepared and hosted by the kids, followed by a graduation ceremony. Dates vary by age group. Join Chef Emily and Sommelier Nick Materese for another exciting Wine Duel on Friday, February 4th as they guide you through a taste comparison of wines alongside a series of small plates. Each

WillowsfordLife

Food Explorers & Grownups Tuesday, January 25th

Wine Duel Friday, February 4th

dish is paired with dueling glasses of wine and you decide which pairing wins. Celebrate an evening of love at our Valentine’s Dinner, an annual favorite featuring hors d’oeuvres and champagne followed by an elegant, seasonal dinner paired with fine wines and a few surprises along the way. Due to its popularity, Willowsford Kitchen is offering two opportunities to attend—Saturday, February 12th and Sunday, February 13th. Have you always wanted to learn to dance? If so, please join us for Date Night in the Ballroom on Saturday, February 19th. From whimsical waltz-

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Date Night in the Ballroom Saturday, February 19th

Jr. Chef Academy Dates vary by age group

es to hot salsa steps, an evening of dancing can energize your relationship with intimate touch, teamwork, and an unexpected burst of endorphins. After the dance lesson you’ll wind down with cocktails and a delicious dinner by Willowsford Kitchen. 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.

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In the Kitchen

Lunch & Learn Cook With Us

by Chef Emily Worth, Culinary Director

illowsford Kitchen’s coveted Lunch & Learn program is back for 2022! Lunch & Learn is a series of three classes for individuals looking to develop their skills in the kitchen. Each class is 2.5 hours in length and is designed to suit cooks of different levels, beginners and veterans alike. You will learn knife skills, key concepts, and various cooking techniques along the way. Lunch is served each week along with a glass of wine. Attendees are provided with the recipes to cook at home and further explore concepts presented in class. Please check the Willowsford Weekly emails for detailed information, menus, and pricing.

All About Ginger From the Willowsford Kitchen Archives

One of the few spices we use in both fresh and dried form, ginger does it all! The fresh stuff is indispensable to stir-fries, while ground ginger adds spicy warmth to baked goods like gingersnaps. Ginger may look like a root, but it’s actually a rhizome or the underground stem of a plant. People have been using it as both a spice and for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. At the Stand Choose pieces of ginger that are plump looking and feel heavy for their size. The skin should be smooth, not wrinkled. One way to tell if ginger is fresh is by

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2022 Lunch & Learn Program January Thursdays (13th, 20th & 27th) 10:30 AM – 1 PM Sycamore House

September Thursdays (15th, 22nd & 29th) 10:30 AM – 1 PM The Lodge

May Thursdays (12th, 19th & 26th) 10:30 AM – 1 PM The Lodge snapping off a little nub—if it isn’t a clean break that means the ginger is past its prime. How to Store Store your ginger unpeeled and wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. If it shrivels, it’s time to throw it away. You can also freeze it for as long as six months, which is a fine way to preserve super fresh ginger from Willowsford Farm. When you are ready to use frozen ginger, just cut off as much as you need for your recipe and thaw. Easy Preparations Fresh ginger adds a peppery heat as well as sweetness to curries, soups and stir-fry dishes. It’s wonderful pickled and you can also steep it in water and a little honey for a soothing, delicious tea. Don’t try to substitute fresh ginger for dried ground ginger in recipes because the two have very different flavors.

Family Feature

WillowsfordLife

Family Feature

Meet the Hoffman Family Life in The Grove

Interview by Kacie Ward, CMCA® HOA Communications & Events Director

e caught up with the Hoffman family to learn all about their life in The Grove. Nick and Sylwia were among the first families to build a home in Willowsford. Read on to learn more about what brought them to our community.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourselves! A: Nick – We have four boys—Jackson (10), Maksymilian (7), Nate (4), and Charlie (2). Plus, a pet frog named Teddy that the boys caught and has since become part of the family. I am in a Sales Management role and Sylwia is taking a break from her career to care for our boys while they’re young. She is fluent in Polish and continues to take advantage of her mechanical engineering degree by fixing the appliances in our home and instilling the engineering spirit in the boys. Q: Why did you choose Willowsford? A: Sylwia – We decided to move to Willowsford

from the Falls Church/Arlington area ten years ago. We started looking at homes out this way and came across this amazing community that was just starting to develop. Braddock Road was still unpaved and The Lodge was unbuilt but yet the vision and plans were out of this world. We visited the Farm Stand and fell in love with the culinary program. We moved in on Valentine's Day in 2013 with our oldest son, Jackson, who was 18 months old at

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the time. We have since brought home three of our babies to Willowsford. To this day we still love exploring the trails and the different villages while our boys gather sticks and catch grasshoppers. Being able to escape into nature minutes from our home is therapeutic for us all.

Q: How did you and Sylwia meet? Nick – Sylwia grew up in California and I

A: grew up in New York. She went to college in

San Diego and I went to college in Boston. We could not have been at more opposite sides of the country but somehow fate put us together. We first met at work, down in Raleigh. Although we were later placed at the same office in Northern Virginia, we worked on entirely different teams and rarely saw each other. When we finally met again for the second time through friends it was actually at a Washington Capitals player's house. We laugh that it took a pro NHL player to get us to notice each other! 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.

Family Feature

Q: What does WillowsfordLife mean to you? Sylwia – To us WillowsfordLife means friends

A: who have grown to become family. Jackson

and Maks were both born with heart defects (Jackson actually saved his brother’s life because Maks’ heart defect would have gone undetected had his older brother not been born with one.) Maks was delivered at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and had open heart surgery during the blizzard of 2014. When we were headed home from Philadelphia, a band of neighbors got together and shoveled our driveway and dropped off meals for us so we didn't have to worry about anything when we brought our sick baby home. The support from our community was unbelievable during such a difficult time and we appreciate being surrounded by so many wonderful friends.

If you had to pick a favorite space in your house, what would it be?

A: Nick – Our favorite space is the kitchen. We

picked the house model based on which one had the biggest kitchen because it’s the space we spend time together as a family the most. We love to cook and bake together, and then eat together. It is a lively, messy, but happy place filling little bellies.

Q: What is your favorite family tradition? Sylwia – We started the tradition of cutting out A: a multilayer “watermelon cake” on each child’s birthday! We slice it up out of a whole watermelon and stick candles on top. The kids adore it and it’s so special for them.

Photo Location Can you spot this Willowsford amenity? Photos were taken at the rustic barn near Willow Grove Pond & Splash Park. The barn was given a facelift a few years back, but still maintains its original charm. It’s a wonderful place to relax on the builtin benches and enjoy nature! tell you how many times our kids have taken a bite and realized the flavor is amazing and end up absolutely loving it. In fact, Jackson has become quite the foodie thanks to Jr. Chef Academy. He made it a goal to earn his own money to visit The Inn at Little Washington for his 10th birthday. He wanted nothing but to experience the Michelin three-star restaurant which Chef Bonnie used to work at. Chef Patrick O'Connell even gave us a tour of his kitchen and a copy of his signed book. Jackson said it was the best birthday he could ever have imagined and is so excited to continue his passion for cooking!

How do you spend snow days?

A: Nate (3) – On our sleds going down the Sledding Hill!

Q: What makes your family special?

How has Willowsford Kitchen impacted your Q: daily life?

A: Jackson (10) – We go on fun trips together to

Sylwia – Thanks to Willowsford Farm and the

Q: What is your favorite Willowsford amenity?

A: culinary classes, all our kids love eating a va-

riety of vegetables and trying new foods. We adopted Willowsford Kitchen’s "no thank you” bite early on, meaning, if you don't like something you still try a bite out of respect for the Chef. I cannot

visit National Parks and explore the outdoors.

A: Maks (7) – My favorite amenity is The Lodge

because we ride our bikes there, have apple cider, and I spend time with my uncle and brothers there. It's very relaxing to me.

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Design Review Committee

DRC Announcements A Year in Review

by Bill “Skip” Powers, DRC Member

or many, winter represents merriment, twinkling lights, snowfall, and a breath of the freshest air. Amid the changing of seasons your neighborhood Design Review Committee (DRC) volunteers and staff toil forward— reviewing over 100 Exterior Modification submissions each month, on average. And like Santa Claus, reviews occur not just once, but twice! For those unfamiliar with the DRC process, applications undergo a pre-review (to ensure all documents required are assembled in a completed package) and a full committee review the following week with recommendation to approve, disapprove or approve with stipulation. Over 98% of all applications in the past 36 months have received favorable approval from the DRC and staff!

This is not a summary of facts and figures or a prognostication weather report of our pending winter season, it is an update to remind our neighbors of the great things underway within our community as it relates to Property Maintenance & Design Standards. The great physicist Albert Einstein once quipped, “...what we don’t know is much more than what we know.” Our community Design Standards have evolved from “what we did not know” and as a result of active resident input and countless hours of dedicated staff/volunteer time to research and amend our standards. Enter stage right, the adjudicated Property Maintenance & Design Standards that is much more comprehensive, searchable (hyperlinks to each section) and includes design elements that our original standards did not consider (e.g., arbors, greenhouses, solar panels, and more). If you have not yet re-

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Design Review Committee

viewed, please visit WillowsfordLife. com and peruse the documents. The DRC is committed to annually review and update these community standards as needed to again, include areas that arise and may have been overlooked in our attempt to be comprehensive and clear in preserving the beautiful community aesthetic. Residents are encouraged to raise any missing elements for consideration by contacting DRC@willowsfordlife.com. Two additional and exciting advancements have occurred since our last update. Your neighborhood DRC has expanded from four to six resident volunteers with the addition of Willowsford residents Caitlyn Randrup and Thomas Thoma! The DRC is elated to welcome them as they settle into their roles as

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Design Review Committee members and Technical Assistance Advisor (TAA) capacities. The other exciting advancement is the creation of the DRC Technical Assistance Advisors. You requested. We listened. The Board of Directors, staff and DRC acted. TAA is a complimentary service provided to residents who might have questions or require assistance in the compilation of their Exterior Modification Application. TAA does not approve or disapprove modifications, rather, helps residents understand the latitudes outlined in the existing standards, often paying a visit to meet with homeowners on-site to review complex projects. In our first three months of TAA, the DRC has logged nearly 40 TAA requests (virtual and on-site). Requests can be coordinated by sending an email to DRC@willowsfordlife.com.

Design Review Committee Charles “Max” Harwell, Chairperson Scott McIntosh, Vice Chairperson William “Dallas” Hubbard Bill “Skip” Powers Paul Jeannin Caitlyn Randrup Thomas Thoma

Covenants Sub-Committee Bill “Skip” Powers, Chairperson Charles “Max” Harwell William “Dallas” Hubbard Karyn Moreland

Design Review Committee

In closing, let’s talk civility.... The DRC and staff work tirelessly as stewards of our community under the direction of the hard-working Willowsford HOA Board of Directors. The Board, DRC, and staff are often faced with complex issues that evoke strong and sometimes quite critical, visceral,

DRC 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.

and emotional criticisms. Remember, we are your neighbors and stand by the pledge to address everyone with decorum and consistency as we preserve the vision for Willowsford. The recently adopted Civility Pledge is a reminder to treat each other with mutual respect. With surety, your DRC, TAA, and staff are working tirelessly to address concerns as raised and Dates will do so with decorum, December accountable to the Civili1st – Application Deadline ty Pledge. 7th – Pre-Review 15th – DRC Meeting Enjoy the winter season! If you have suggesJanuary tions for improvement 5th – Application Deadline to the current process or 12th – Pre-Review an interest to serve your 19th – DRC Meeting community in the coming year, please send inquiry February to HOA@willowsford. com. 2nd – Application Deadline 9th – Pre-Review 16th – DRC Meeting

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Board Room

2022 Annual Budget A Look Ahead

by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® HOA Community Manager

s we prepare for a monumental year celebrating the 10th anniversary of Willowsford and expect to reach complete build out of all 2,322 homes, we have much to be thankful for, reflect on, and look forward to with anticipation. Each year the Board of Directors adopts an annual Operating Budget. The primary factors contributing to the increase for 2022 include significant cost increase across the waste and recycling industry, approaching build out which significantly reduces the number of new residents next year, increase in reserve contribution, and inflation in general. The 2022 Operating Budget summary was distributed to all homeowners via email, posted online, and is also included here. Base Assessments defray common expenses applicable to all homes in the community, including

2022 Board Meeting Schedule Attendees are welcome to adJanuary 13th dress the Board March 10th directly during March 23rd Resident ComAnnual & Organizational Meetings ment Period at May 12th the beginning of July 14th each meeting. September 8th To view past and November 10th present Board Meeting agendas, minutes, open session packages, presentations, and more please visit WillowsfordLife.com > Document Center > Community > Board Room. Meetings are held in-person at Sycamore House in addition to Zoom. BOD@willowsford.com WillowsfordLife.com/217/Board-Room

but not limited to Board Members insurance, landscaping, residential waste and Mike Russiello, President recycling pickup Lisa Bradford, Vice-President and other conHarry Pugh, Treasurer tracted services, Frank Blackstone, Secretary legal counsel, William Atwill, Director financial management, amenity/community building and common area upkeep and maintenance, utilities, some Lifestyle programming, and management. In addition to the Base Assessment, there are four different Service Area Assessments which apply to homes that receive services or benefits that are not applicable to all homes in the community and vary by type. On behalf of the Board of Directors and HOA Team, we wish you and your family health and happiness in the year ahead!

2022 Quarterly Assessments HOA Base: $ 552 Service Area Assessments (if applicable to your property) Pipestem: $ 44.18 Loop Lane: $ 62.74 Village Green: $ 76.15 Courtyard: $ 401.13 Conservancy: $ 127.50 SFMC, Inc. is the financial management company who handles assessment collection for Willowsford. They offer a variety of payment options including online payment, check, and direct debit. Please contact SFMC, Inc. at 703-392-6006 or visit SFMCinc.com for any payment-related questions. Quarterly assessments are due January 1st, April 1st, July 1st and October 1st, and all payments should be made payable to Willowsford Homeowners Association. While HOA and Conservancy fees are separate, they are collected together at the same time by SFMC, Inc. for convenience.

WillowsfordLife

2022 Adopted Budget Summary Income

Amount

Owners Assessments

$5,090,728.00

Description Revenue from owner Base Assessments of $552 per lot quarterly ($10 increase per quarter from 2020)

Builder Assessments & Settlements

$10,672.00

Revenue from Builder Assessments and initial builder settlement (50% of the Base Assessment per lot)

Capital Contributions

$94,208.00

Revenue from initial homeowner settlement and resale settlement capital contributions

Service Area Assessments

$132,070.54

Revenue from Service Area Assessments per lot: Pipestem $44.18 quarterly, Loop Lane $62.74 quarterly, Village Green $76.15 quarterly, Courtyard $401.13 quarterly

Lifestyle Programming

$278,100.00

Revenue from Lifestyle and Culinary programming

Amenity Rental Income

$60,000.00

Other Income

$300,219.91

Conservancy Assessment Income

$1,522,835.00

Total Income

$7,488,833.45

Expenses

Amount

Administrative Expenses/Services

Revenue from amenity rentals Revenue from various sources such as Conservancy reciprocal use and Boat House reserve contribution, Design Review fees, key fobs, pool guest passes, late fees and interest on investments, and prior year equity Collection of Conservancy Assessments and Capital Contributions: Revenue is pass through with offsetting expense paid to Conservancy; amount was estimated prior to Conservancy budget approval and may differ from their budget figure (this is a pass through and will not affect the bottom line of the HOA)

Description

$89,155.00

Administrative related expenses such as Income taxes, purchase of key FOBs, bank/merchant fees, resident coupon books, office supplies, equipment, postage, bad debt write-off, administrative expenses from SFMC, Inc.

$1,188,700.00

Includes salaries, benefits, payroll tax & fees, professional development

Insurance, Permits & Licenses

$114,066.67

HOA insurance, pool permits, VA ABC permits, trademark renewals, and other licenses

Utilities

$986,971.25

Utilities for all amenities, common area and resident waste/recycling services

Staffing Related

Landscaping & Irrigation

$1,246,896.92

Grounds maintenance contracts, flower rotations, landscape replacement & enhancements, tree removal, watering, and irrigation repairs

Contracted Services

$445,268.62

Contracted expenses including website, pool management, snow removal, lake & pond management, HVAC, pest control, access control systems, janitorial services, etc.

Repair & Maintenance

$387,980.00

Expenses associated with amenity and common area repair and maintenance

Professional Services

$330,940.00

Legal (general and collections), audit, IT support and services, DRC expenses, consulting, financial management agent, etc.

Reserve Funding

$691,300.00

Savings for future repair/replacement of amenities, common and limited common elements

Lifestyle Programming

$464,720.00

Costs associated with the Lifestyle and Culinary programs includes for increased homes

Contingency Reserve

Capital Expenditures

— $20,000.00

Conservancy Assessment Expense

$1,522,835.00

Total Expenses

$7,488,833.46

NET Income (Loss)

Winter2022

($0.00)

Allowance for unforeseen expenses and insurance deductible Allowance for minor Capital projects Collection of Conservancy Assessments (revenue is pass through with offsetting expense paid to Conservancy)

Total Income Minus Total Expenses

Willowsford Conservancy

Did you know? 14 community members volunteered with Willowsford Conservancy, putting in a total of 491 volunteer hours, in 2021. Thank you volunteers! There’s so much we can accomplish when we work together. Interesting in lending a hand? Be on the lookout for upcoming opportunities in 2022.

WillowsfordLife

Willowsford Conservancy

Volunteerism

Growing Roots in the Neighborhood by Taryn McFarland, Land Stewardship Manager

very year, Willowsford Conservancy sets lofty goals for what we can accomplish on our trails and for our land. With over 2,000 acres of land and 40 miles of trails, these goals are necessary to make an impact but can also seem beyond the capabilities of the team of four that make up the Land Stewardship team. Fortunately, Conservancy open space also relies upon the support of the Willowsford community which, through the help of everyone who lives here, make achieving these goals possible. The previous year seemed to pass by in a blur, but the lasting impression from the year was ‘many hands make light work’. An example of this was a reforestation project that took place in The Grant in October, where 40 volunteers helped Willowsford Conservancy and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy to plant 300 trees to help our streams. This was just one of the reforestation projects we did in 2021, and by the end of the year we planted a total of 1,207 trees in Conservancy open space. All the plantings were supported by grant funding that promote protecting our watershed. Protecting water quality is vital to wildlife and people alike and caring for our streams and ponds is an important facet of the work we do. In 2021, we had several volunteers conduct stream monitoring in The Grange and collect data that is valu-

Volunteerism & Programming 2021 by the Numbers Children’s Programs Offered – 5 Children Enrolled in Programs – 108 Farm Events (Tours, Socials, etc.) – 7 Farm Event Attendees – 484 Volunteers – 14 Volunteer Hours – 491

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able in understanding the condition of the stream and water quality. Willowsford community members will have the opportunity to participate in similar efforts and training opportunities in 2022. Caring for the land surrounding Willowsford can take on a variety of forms. Whether it be hanging owl boxes across the four villages, meadow restoration projects, or planting trees alongside the Conservancy, there is plenty of work to be done in Conservancy open space and thanks to this community, plenty of help to get it done. We hope to meet more of the community through our volunteer opportunities and encourage those who are interested in participating in conservation to join us. Willowsford is a special community that can achieve so much for conservation when we work together—so thank you all!

Update! Farm Stand in The Grange

2021 was a year of transition and your Farm Team is grateful for your support and patience. The Farm recognizes the transition was not without challenge and that some of the past programs and offerings, including the use of the Farm Stand are sorely missed. The decision to close the Farm Stand occurred in late 2019, but messaging surrounding this change was overshadowed by the pandemic in early 2020. Your Board, Farm crew and volunteers have heard from numerous community members that they would like the Farm Stand re-opened. While it might not be in the same form as prior years, we are happy to announce that this community amenity will be available again in 2022!

Willowsford Conservancy

New Leadership at the Conservancy Introducing Ann Alleva Taylor

fter a nationwide search that yielded multiple qualified candidates, Willowsford Farm & Conservancy welcomes a new Executive Director, Ann Alleva Taylor. Ann has more than three decades of experience ranging from corporate tax accounting, 10 years with the Indian River Land Trust and most recently serving as the Director of Marketing and Philanthropy at the Botanical Garden of Piedmont.

When asked why she was excited about this opportunity, Ann said, “I loved the marriage of a farm and conservancy, and the creativity of an agri-community. It is unique and forward thinking and in my mind the Farm and Conservancy belong together, it is a natural fit—it has the potential to be engaging in so many directions and I am looking forward to meeting more of our community members to find the best way forward.”

“Ann’s business acumen, marketing and interest in building community relationships are what made her stand out as a candidate,” says Chase Rowan, President of Willowsford Conservancy Board of Trustees.

Beyond her professional life Ann and her husband Carter have three daughters with a wide array of interests, including horseback riding. Ann enjoys cooking and sewing and is looking forward to preparing meals with the fresh, organic food from the Farm, including broccoli raab—a family favorite!

WillowsfordLife

Willowsford Conservancy

Volunter Spotlights I decided to volunteer for CSA distribution when I was new to Willowsford, as a way to meet people of the community. Over the years of volunteering at both the Boat House and Farm Stand, I have met wonderful people who I look forward to seeing each week of the CSA season. I am excited to see how the Farm changes and grows in the coming years. —Julie Nash, The Greens

I’ve volunteered at the Farm since we moved to Willowsford three years ago and am very happy that I chose to do this. I’ve gained a better understanding of farm operations, learned more about healthy vegetables and how they are grown, and had the opportunity to spend time each week with a team of dedicated and hard-working farm workers who have made me feel welcome and appreciated whenever I’m with them. Working at the Farm Stand for CSA share pickups has allowed me to meet and chat with the many incredible people who appreciate and support the Farm through their share purchase. There are so many different things a Willowsford-er could do at the Farm to help while having fun and learning that everyone should give it a try! — John Lilley, The Grant

Winter2022

Volunteering at the Farm has been such a joy this past fall! The crisp air, fresh produce growing, dynamic farmers, and natural beauty of the land is food for the soul. Then to have the opportunity to see how much the kids enjoyed Farm Camp—perhaps the harvesting chores the most—was something to behold. Nature is such a de-stressor, and one child said it best, “I don’t want Farm Camp to end.” I am already looking forward to the fresh green of spring and time at the Farm. Thank you, Willowsford Farmers! —Diane Geiser, The Greens

“Volunteering at the Farm has been extremely fun and rewarding. It is rare to have the privilege of living next to a working farm, so anyone not taking advantage of this opportunity is missing out. I am currently helping clear brush from the Farm fencing, which is arduous yet peaceful and satisfying. My favorite memory was bringing the kids to harvest potatoes; they loved the challenge of who could find the most while simultaneously learning about where their food comes from. I highly encourage everyone to get involved - there’s enough range of opportunities to fit our busy schedules.” — Andrew Lach, The Grange

Recollections

A Look Back... Let’s take a look back at some of our favorite Lifestyle moments from this past fall. Thank you for joining us!

Jr. Chef Academy

Dueling Pianos Night

AutumnFest

WillowsfordLife

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

Halloween Bark Bash

Thanksgiving Sides by Willowsford Kitchen Winter2022

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WillowsfordLife

Next Issue Want to be featured in the spring issue of WillowsfordLife? Spring arrives with so much beauty in tow, including the rain showers! Umbrellas provide protection from the drench. Kids—use your creativity to color this umbrella. Kindly drop off artwork at Sycamore House or The Lodge by February 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)

Winter2022

Willowsford

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