Brambleton Magazine: Fall 2023

Embracing Engagement

Homeowners associations (HOAs), including Brambleton Community Association, play an important role in cultivating engaged and harmonious neighborhoods. The need for dedicated HOA leaders and volunteers who prioritize the collective well-being over personal objectives cannot be overstated. Effective leaders understand that they serve as advocates for the community's needs and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of all residents. An exceptional leader embraces a sense of responsibility and commitment while working to create an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and included. By selflessly placing the community's needs first, successful leaders contribute to the growth, unity, and overall quality of life within the community they serve.

During his time on the BCA Board of Directors, Director Ravi Balaram has been just that – an effective and

exceptional leader. From the day he submitted his name as a candidate, Ravi embraced engagement. During his tenure with Brambleton, he analyzed the Board election process and improved upon it. As the Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, he oversaw the effort to revise the vision, mission, and goals of the Association for years to come. With his knowledge, experience, and love for flying, he led the Airport Impact Executive Committee in working with Loudoun County, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and the Federal Aviation Administration toward understanding and reducing aircraft noise in Brambleton. Ravi has taken his role as a Board member earnestly and accomplished a great deal in his two years of service.

Thank you very much, Ravi Balaram! I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the entire Association for your dedication and

exceptional service to Brambleton over the last few years. Your accomplishments have made a long-lasting impact on our community. Your quick grasp of HOA processes and your unwavering commitment to excellence have been truly commendable. Your leadership, professionalism, and inclusive approach have enriched every endeavor you undertook. You embraced engagement in every decision you made for BCA. I am a better person having worked side-byside with you, and your shoes will be tough ones to fill.

So, the opportunity to be engaged is available for the rest of the Brambleton community. Are you able to volunteer as a candidate for the open Board position? Do you want to serve on a BCA Committee? Volunteer for an event? Help a neighbor in need? Homeowners associations are always in search of good leaders who give their time in large and small ways for the betterment of their community. There are countless ways for you to embrace engagement and serve the best interests of Brambleton and your fellow residents.

Sincerely,

Rick Stone, PCAM, LSM

Brambleton Community Association

Vision & Mission Vision

A visionary community valuing excellence and offering inclusive and connected lifestyles.

Mission

To engage, support, and serve the Brambleton community through professional stewardship and innovative practices.

Board of Directors

Brian Viola President

Chris Cook Vice President

Rosemarie Linder Treasurer

Iain Ronis Secretary

Pat Martin Director

Anand Mohan Director

Management Office

42395 Ryan Road, Suite 210

Brambleton, VA 20148

(p) 703-542-6263

(f) 703-542-6266

hoa@brambleton.org

www.brambletonhoa.com

Rick Stone

General Manager, PCAM, LSM

Paul Gentine

Communications Coordinator

Cover Photo Credit: Brambleton resident Darryl Lansey. Thank you for your dedicated service to our community!

To advertise in the Brambleton Magazine, contact communications@brambleton.org or 703-542-6263.

The community magazine is published and mailed quarterly by Brambleton Community Association and can also be viewed on our website.

FEATURES

2

Embracing Engagement

A MESSAGE FROM RICK STONE, GENERAL MANAGER

Brambleton Community Association offers countless ways for Brambleton residents to embrace engagement and serve as leaders and volunteers for the benefit of the community.

19

Hanson Park Nature Center

BY HANSON PARK STAFF

The Hanson Park Nature Center is a new, free local resource connecting everyone of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to the great outdoors.

21

Prepare Your Home: Helpful Fall Maintenance Tips

BY NIKKI JESSUP

BCA offers helpful suggestions to prepare your home for winter and be in great shape heading into spring.

EVENTS

SEPTEMBER

Sept. 23: Fall Yard Sale, 8 AM–12 PM

Sept. 23/24: Neighborhood Campout, 4 PM–10 AM

Sept. 28: National Good Neighbor Day, 4–7 PM

OCTOBER

Oct. 7: Fall Fest, 1–6 PM

Oct. 20: Movie on the Green, 6:30 PM

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

Nov. 3-5: Pictures with Santa

Dec. 10: Arcola Santa Tour, 6–9 PM

TBD: Dueling Pianos, 7–10 PM

MEETINGS

BCA Annual Meeting: Nov. 14 at 7 PM

BCA Board of Directors: Oct. 17 at 6 PM; Dec. 5 at 8 AM

Financial Advisory Committee: Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7 at 6:30 PM

Covenants Committee: Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13 at 6:30 PM

Grounds & Facilities Committee: Sept. 13, Nov. 8 at 7 PM

Safety & Security Committee: Nov. 7 at 7 PM

Elections Committee: Dates TBD

Nominate Your Neighbors

Do you know a Brambleton resident who has gone above and beyond to help their neighbors or the community as a whole? Share their story with BCA!

If you would like to nominate a neighbor, please email communications@brambleton.org with your neighbor’s name and a short description of their contribution to the community (150 words maximum). Nominations will be considered for recognition in future Brambleton Magazine issues.

Questions can be sent to communications@brambleton.org. We’re excited to hear what amazing things Brambleton residents have accomplished!

BCA Board of Directors

The BCA Board of Directors is responsible for the overall governance and success of the Association. The Board meets regularly to discuss BCA business, set policies and procedures, and take action on various Association matters. The Board last met on June 6 and August 8, 2023, and took the following actions in accordance with its governing documents, state statute, and federal laws:

June & August 2023 Board Meetings:

ƒ Approved the Board Meeting Minutes for April 18, May 3, and June 6, 2023.

ƒ Director Ravi Balaram gave notice of his resignation, and the Board agreed to not fill the vacancy until the 2023 Annual Meeting and Election in November.

ƒ Appointed Director Rosemarie Linder as Chairperson for the Airport Impact Executive Committee and Director Chris Cook as the third Executive Committee member.

ƒ Established the 2023 Elections Committee and appointed Director Pat Martin to serve on the Committee as required by the governing documents. Directed staff to solicit a minimum of two owners or residents to serve on the Committee.

ƒ Accepted the 2022 Audit as amended.

ƒ Approved a Record Retention Policy Resolution and directed staff to administer and manage the policy as outlined.

ƒ Established an operating reserves account and reallocated $500,000 of retained earnings to fund the account. Directed staff to draft basic rules for the use, replenishment, and annual review of the reserves account.

ƒ Approved the expenditure of up to $15,000 of initial capital funds for the purchase and installation of trail benches.

ƒ Accepted the changes to the BCA Employee Handbook and directed staff to forward the handbook to Association counsel for a final review.

ƒ Authorized support for the efforts of the Loudoun HOA Executive Council for the Invasives Initiative and their request for relevant funding from Loudoun County. Authorized staff to speak on behalf of the Association at related meetings.

ƒ Agreed to further explore and consider the annexation of Arcola Farms.

ƒ Approved an exterior modification appeal of an existing privacy wall with conditions and denied the existing pergola roof.

ƒ Directed staff to send a letter to the State Corporation Commission opposing the Greenway Toll increase and to raise community awareness through the Association’s communication channels.

Approved versions of all Board meeting minutes can be found in the FSR Connect Resident Portal at bca.connectresident.com.

Oct. 17 at 6 PM, Dec. 5 at 8 AM, BCA Management Office

Back Row (l-r): Iain Ronis - Secretary; Chris Cook - Vice President; Ravi Balaram - Director (resigned); Brian Viola - President Front Row (l-r): Pat Martin - Director; Anand Mohan - Director; Rosemarie Linder - Treasurer

Thank You for Your Service

Ravi Balaram - Director, BCA Board of Directors

“How can I be useful, of what service can I be? There is something inside me, what can it be?” -

Vincent van Gogh

Service comes in many forms. Throughout my career in the military, I've often been told, “Thank you for your service.” It is a statement that used to make me quite uncomfortable as I never knew how to react. But, over time I became more settled with the appreciation and reciprocated with a simple “Thank you” in return. The United States Armed Services employs well over two million uniformed personnel and countless other civil servants and contractors around the world. Closer to home, this past week my father just retired after 46 years of government service to our nation (20 years

active-duty and 26 years as a contractor). I've always looked up to him for inspiration as a role model of leadership, character, and citizenship. For me, serving has always been a calling.

But service and serving do not only pertain to the armed forces. Of its many definitions, the most relevant from Merriam-Webster's Dictionary inform us that “service” includes: a helpful act performed by one for the contribution to the welfare of others; labor that does not necessarily produce a tangible commodity; and work to provide maintenance or repair.

These definitions of service provide us with a common understanding of serving the Brambleton Community

In Ravi’s short time with us on the BCA Board of Directors, he has made a lasting impact on Brambleton with his active engagement with the community and his leadership on our next Strategic Plan. In addition, his previous work as Vice President of the Board and Chair of the Airport Impact Executive Committee was vital in ensuring Brambleton’s strength in the years ahead.

On behalf of the Board, I’d like to wish him and his family good luck in his next deployment and thank you for not only serving our country, but in having been an active member of our Board and community.

Brian J. Viola, President, BCA Board of Directors

Association and the Brambleton community as a whole. We have an amazing collection of talented individuals, both professionally paid and volunteers, who “serve” our community. I continue to be impressed on a daily basis just walking around our neighborhood. From the parks, trails, and pools to the events, management, and maintenance, we are truly blessed to have such a talented team supporting our local way of life.

I urge you all to volunteer to contribute your time to various opportunities to serve our community. Cheryl Esplin tells us, “Service doesn’t have to be big and grandiose to be meaningful and make a difference.” So the next time you see someone from BCA, I encourage you to thank them for their service!

BCA Committees

FINANCIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Responsibility: Reviewing financial reports and audits, monitoring investments, reviewing funding for capital projects, and developing financial policies and resolutions to recommend to the Board.

Meetings: First Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM. Upcoming meetings: 10/5, 11/2, 12/7

Website: www.brambletonhoa.com/finance

COVENANTS COMMITTEE

Responsibility: Reviewing submitted design review applications, considering violations of BCA documents, and taking enforcement actions.

Meetings: Second Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. Upcoming meetings: 9/11, 10/9, 11/13

Website: www.brambletonhoa.com/covenants

GROUNDS & FACILITIES COMMITTEE

Responsibility: Advising the Board on issues related to rules, policies, maintenance, upkeep, and the use of the common grounds and facilities.

Meetings: Second Wednesday of every other month at 7 PM. Upcoming meeting: 9/13, 11/8

Website: www.brambletonhoa.com/grounds

SAFETY & SECURITY COMMITTEE

Responsibility: Serving as a resource for residents with concerns and making recommendations to the Board regarding safety and security matters in Brambleton.

Meetings: Third Tuesday quarterly at 7 PM. Upcoming meeting: 11/7 (due to Thanksgiving holiday)

Website: www.brambletonhoa.com/safety

ELECTIONS COMMITTEE

Responsibility: Meeting the requirements of BCA's Governing Documents and advising the Board on issues related to and affecting the election of Directors for the Association.

Meetings: Meets as needed. Upcoming meetings: TBD.

Website: www.brambletonhoa.com/electionscommittee

Want to Serve on a BCA Committee?

BCA is always looking for residents who want to engage with Brambleton by serving on one of our committees. Becoming a committee member is a great way to learn more about the Association and make a direct impact on our community. Visit www.brambletonhoa.com/committees to find a Committee Member Application and to review more information.

2023 BCA Board of Directors Election

Brambleton Community Association will hold a Board of Directors Election this year to elect one Director to a one-year term. This election will be held to finish the term held by Director Ravi Balaram. The election will open on Friday, October 13 and will conclude at the BCA Annual Meeting on Tuesday, November 14. A Call for Candidates is already underway and will close on Friday, September 22.

Voting in a BCA Board Election is one of the best ways for homeowners to be involved in the future of Brambleton. The Board consists of five resident directors and two directors appointed by the Developer and is responsible for the overall governance of the Association. Significant actions taken by the Board in the last year include adopting the 202327 Strategic Plan and establishing the Airport Impact Executive Committee.

In preparation for this election, the Board re-established the Elections Committee to develop and administer election procedures and guidelines and perform a post-election evaluation. BCA will again work with GetQuorum this year as our online election vendor. GetQuorum provides a seamless registration and voting process, online meeting RSVP, and an efficient virtual meeting experience with electronic live, real-time voting and proxy revocation.

Be on the lookout for an email from GetQuorum in early October with information regarding the 2023 Annual Meeting and Election. If you are not currently receiving electronic notifications from BCA, please contact our staff at hoa@brambleton.org to provide your email address or to request a mailed version of the meeting notice and paper proxy.

More information can be found at www. brambletonhoa.com/annualmeeting. Updates and reminders will also be provided via our Friday Flash and Facebook page.

Important BCA Election Dates:

• Candidate/Nominating Petition Deadline: September 22 at 5:00 p.m.

• Record Date to Determine

Members: September 29 at 5:00 p.m.

• Meeting E-Notice & Online Election

Opens: October 13 at 9:00 a.m.

• Requested Paper Proxy Deadline: November 10 at 5:00 p.m.

• Online Election Closes: November 13 at 5:00 p.m.

• Annual Meeting and Election: November 14 at 7:00 p.m.

2023 BCA ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

DATE & TIME: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 7:00 PM PLACE: TBD

Brambleton residents will be able to attend in person or virtually. The meeting location will be announced by early October 2023.

The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to share Association and community information and to provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions. Representatives from the Developer’s office will also be present to provide updates. The Annual Meeting is also a great opportunity for you to meet the current Board members, Association staff, and your neighbors.

Visit www.brambletonhoa.com/annualmeeting for more information. We hope to see you at this year's meeting!

“Kelly was so amazing to work with! We wanted a realtor who knew the Brambleton market well, could work with our unique timeline and could get us top dollar for our home… that is exactly what Kelly did!”

-Melissa & Don Adams, Sellers, Brambleton 2023

Aerating & Overseeding: Nurturing Healthy Lawns

Isaiah Marsh - Operations Manager

With cooler weather on the horizon, Brambleton Community Association is gearing up to aerate and overseed turf on many of our common area parcels. Brambleton homeowners should also think of doing the same to protect and strengthen their lawns heading into fall and winter.

A vibrant lawn not only enhances the beauty of a property but also plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy environment. Homeowners often invest time and effort into maintaining their lawns by mowing regularly, fertilizing, and watering. Aerating and overseeding are two additional, essential practices that are sometimes overlooked but can significantly boost lawn health and resilience.

Aerating is the process of perforating the soil with small holes, typically

two to six inches apart, either by using a spike aerator or a core aerator. Compacted soil is a common issue that hinders the growth of the grass and can lead to thinning, bare patches and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests.

Aerating breaks up the compacted soil, creating channels for air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the ground. This improves the root system's access to essential elements, promoting healthier growth. Furthermore, the increased oxygen circulation in the soil stimulates beneficial microbial activity, facilitating the breakdown of organic matter and promoting soil fertility.

As lawns age or face stress due to foot traffic, weather conditions, or diseases, grass density tends to decline. Overseeding involves spreading new grass seed over the existing lawn to fill in thin areas and promote a lush and robust carpet of grass. It also can introduce new grass varieties that may be more disease-resistant or better suited to the current climate conditions.

Additionally, overseeding helps prevent weeds from taking root in sparse areas, as the dense grass inhibits weed germination and growth. Overall, a

well-established lawn created through overseeding can better withstand environmental challenges like drought and extreme temperatures, as well as outcompete unwanted plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients.

Early fall is an ideal time to aerate and overseed. The moderate temperatures and increased moisture create the perfect conditions for seed germination and establishment. It is essential to prepare the lawn properly before aerating and overseeding. Mow the grass at a lower height than usual, rake away any debris, and water the lawn well a day or two beforehand. This ensures that the seeds have direct contact with the soil and the aeration holes can penetrate the ground easily.

Aerating and overseeding are vital components of a comprehensive lawn maintenance regimen. They work together to breathe new life into lawns, revitalizing their appearance and enhancing their resilience against various challenges. By promoting healthy root growth, denser grass, and improved soil conditions, aerating and overseeding contribute significantly to the long-term health and beauty of any lawn, allowing you to enjoy a lush and thriving landscape year-round.

42618 Good Hope Lane/BRAMBLETON Under Contrac t in 2 Days

42556 Mantua Square/BRAMBLETON Under Contrac t in 4 Days

42395 Rising Moon Pl./BRAMBLETON Under Contrac t in 3 Days

BCA Annual Budget Breakdown

As the summer turns to fall and brings shorter days and cooler nights, Brambleton Community Association staff has once again begun the process of creating a new BCA Operating Budget. This year, we have the added benefit of utilizing the data gleaned from the Strategic Planning Community Survey sent out last year to all Brambleton residents.

There was an abundance of good information gathered from this survey, and we learned that our residents are generally pleased with all aspects of the Brambleton community. Therefore, we thought it would be informative to highlight a few areas addressed in the survey, note their impact on the annual budget, and comment on how these items are typically funded.

Strategic Planning Survey Responses:

80% of respondents were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with common area maintenance and resident services.

• Resident services most valued: Verizon Fios, Trash & Recycling Curbside Collection, Townhome Grounds Maintenance Program

• These items make up approximately 60% of the annual budget expenses. These services are fully funded by owner assessments.

77% of respondents were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with Amenities & Lifestyle Activities.

• Amenities most valued: Trails, Pools, Natural Areas, Playgrounds

• Lifestyle Activities most valued: EatLoco Farmers Market, Fireworks, Holiday Events, BrewFest

• These items make up approximately 10% of the annual budget expenses. Event & Program Income from Rentals, Sponsorships, and Event Ticket Sales offsets 84% of event expenses.

70% of respondents were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with Communications between BCA management and residents.

• This category makes up approximately 10% of the annual budget expenses. Income from advertising helps offset a large portion of communication costs. Did you know the Brambleton Magazine is fully funded through advertisements?

65% of respondents were Very Satisfied or Satisfied that the BCA is consistently enforcing Design Standards.

• This category makes up approximately 10% of the annual budget expenses. This service is fully funded by owner assessments.

The remaining 10% of the annual budget is attributed to the reserve accounts: General, Townhome, Common Driveway, and Recreation, which are all fully funded by owner assessments.

In addition to the survey findings noted, 80% of respondents are Very Likely or Likely to recommend living in Brambleton to someone they know. Additionally, 32% of respondents are willing to pay to improve or add BCA services, and 32% of respondents are unwilling to pay to improve or add services.

Brambleton residents are invited to participate in the 2024 Budget development process at every step. The BCA Board of Directors is scheduled to review and approve the Budget at their meeting on October 17. BCA residents always have the opportunity to provide their opinion and feedback to the Financial Advisory Committee or the Board during the Resident Forum portion held at every meeting.

Questions pertaining to the current or 2024 Budget or Assessments can be directed to General Manager Rick Stone at rick.stone@brambleton.org or Finance Specialist Julianne Geyser at julianne. geyser@brambleton.org. Budget and Assessment information can be found at www.brambletonhoa.com/budget.

Julianne Geyser - Finance Specialist

Financial Report Card

Mid-Year Report: 2023

Brambleton Community Association

42395 Ryan Rd, Ste 210

Brambleton, VA 20148

hoa@brambleton.org

President: Brian Viola

Treasurer: Rosemarie Linder

General Manager: Rick Stone

Finance Committee Chair: Joe Parker

Term: 1/1/2023 – 6/30/2023 Operating Budget: $16,957,674

Number of Homes: 6,375

Notable Financial Items:

• The 2023-2027 Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board.

• An Operating Reserve of $500,000 was established and funded.

• Finance Committee & Board adopted the 2024 Budget Development Calendar.

• Staff has begun developing the 2024 Budget.

• Republic Services has passed along a $0.67 increase to cover County landfill increases. BCA will cover this with no increase to residents in 2023.

• Draws from the Capital Reserve accounts in Q4 are likely for expenses related to the new Office & Maintenance Facility.

Assessment Dollar Breakdown:

Fall 2023 Events

Sept. 23: Fall Yard Sale

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Sept. 23/24: Neighborhood Campout

4:00 PM–10:00 AM

Sept. 28: National Good Neighbor Day

4:00–7:00 PM

Oct. 7: Fall Fest

1:00–6:00 PM

Oct. 20: Movie on the Green

6:30 PM

Nov. 3-5: Pictures with Santa

Dec 10: Arcola Santa Tour

6:00–9:00 PM

TBD: Dueling Pianos

7:00–10:00 PM

Sundays at Brambleton

Olympia & Legacy Park Dr. 9AM - 1PM

Brambleton

Hanson Park Nature Center

Right down the road from Brambleton, nestled in the woods of the Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park, the Nature Center is a new, free local resource connecting everyone of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to the great big world right outside our doors. We are happy to be here to help you on your journey and discover the adventure waiting for you. The Nature Center is designed to inspire a sense of wonder and excitement for our natural world.

How much do you know about the world around you? I mean really know the world around you? Our interactive exhibits and displays will spark your curiosity right away. New to the Nature

Center? Stop by the front desk and grab a scavenger hunt to introduce you to all we have to offer. Returning visitor? Check in on our ambassador animals or dive deeper with our monthly themes. The Nature Center exists so you can flourish.

Our diverse, nature-themed programs are designed for all ages, whether you are taking your first steps into nature (Preschool Nature Art: September 15 & October 20), learning to read the clues our world offers (Seasons of Trees: October 21), or simply finding new ways to unwind and relax (Fall Watercolors: October 14). And this is only the beginning.

This is your space to connect with the world around you, and we want you to be proud of it. Nature grows and evolves, and the Nature Center is no different. Coming soon, we will be installing permanent, museum quality interactive exhibits to further enhance the experience, followed by enhancements to aid in telling the story of Hanson Park and our local history. And we will only keep growing from there.

Everything is designed to engage you with the natural world in whatever way suits you best. The Hanson Park Nature Center can also work with you to organize a private program to supplement curriculum, fulfill scouting requirements, or visit your school or organization! We have something for everyone to discover the adventure just waiting outside your door.

Stop by the Nature Center at 42071 Nature Overlook Dr. on Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or visit www.loudoun.gov/prcs to see our new and upcoming programs and events. The Nature Center is many things to many people, but at its core, we are a resource for everyone of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to discover and engage with the world around us.

Hal & Berni Hanson Regional Park Staff

Prepare Your Home: Helpful Fall Maintenance Tips

Where spring is generally a time to plan new home projects and get ready for summer, fall is a time to prepare your home to handle the winter and be in great shape heading into spring. The Brambleton Community Association Community Standards department has shared a few suggestions for home checks and projects that can be accomplished in the coming months.

September

• Driveways: This is a good time to reseal your driveway if it has faded or has cracked in the summer heat. Filling in cracks before resealing will prevent winter ice from expanding them and creating further damage.

• Gutters: Ensuring gutters are clear is essential for fall rain and melting snow to find an unobstructed path to the downspouts. Blockages can cause water to pool and potentially find its way into your home.

• Planting: Some plants do best when planted in the fall. If you want to add new shrubs or spring bulbs like hyacinth, now is the time to do so. Fall annuals, such as pansies, are also a great addition to keep some color in your yard as other plants go to sleep.

October

• Trees and Shrubs: Trimming dead branches and cutting back overgrown trees and bushes will get them ready for dormancy through the winter and in a position for a healthy awakening in the spring. If you have blooming perennials, such as clematis or roses, now is the time to prune them and train the branches.

• Exterior Lighting: October brings shorter days and crowds of trick-ortreaters. Check and change the bulbs on exterior carriage lights, garage lights, and landscape up-lighting to make sure the exterior of your home is safely and appropriately illuminated.

• Lawn Maintenance: Depending on daytime temperatures, the end of October is generally a good time to apply fertilizer to your lawn. Roots are still active when the grass is no longer growing, so applying fertilizer will prevent winter damage and will also lead to a lusher lawn in the spring.

November

• Home Safety: Daylight saving time ends this year on Sunday, November 5. This is always a good time to replace batteries in smoke and carbon

monoxide detectors and to make sure fire extinguishers are operable and strategically staged around your home.

• Winter Equipment: Winters have been mild the past few years, but it is still smart to test your winter equipment (such as snow blowers) and make sure you are adequately stocked with snow shovels and ice scrapers.

• Water Pipes: Before the real cold temperatures come, perform the winterization treatment on irrigation systems and protect pipes for exterior spigots from freezing by emptying them and turning off the outside water lines.

Creating a monthly plan is a great way to organize necessary home safety and maintenance tasks throughout the year. It is also a good way to ensure that tasks are performed in the months where they will be most successful and manageably spread out throughout the year.

Our Community Standards department also shares seasonal tips and reminders in our weekly Friday Flash email message. Visit www.brambletonhoa.com/ stayconnected to subscribe. Contact them with any questions at communitystandards@brambleton.org.

Nikki Jessup, CMCA, AMS - Community Standards & Resident Services Manager

Take a Moment to Pause

Christine Elansary - Community Engagement Manager

As a working mom of four, life is never boring. Between shuffling kids everywhere, entertaining the dog, working Brambleton Community Association events, and doing everything in between, I need to remind myself to take a moment and pause. It wasn’t until the last couple of years where I’ve realized the importance of overall wellness, to include putting myself first. I have always made sure to stay physically active, but something was missing. Two years ago, my oldest son started a spiritual journey which included yoga, meditation, and breathing. He shared a lot of what he learned through books he read which inspired me to start my own journey.

Earlier this spring, I had the privilege of attending a week-long “A Return to You” retreat in Nosara, Costa Rica, hosted by JKS Yoga. Described as a “soul-stirring and blissful journey of self-discovery” with an opportunity to

experience Costa Rica’s Blue Zone, I was immediately sold. And to travel with two dear friends I met in Brambleton many years ago, this trip was meant for me. I tend to push myself at all my workouts, so the idea of yoga all week seemed like something my body really needed. What I didn’t realize is that this trip would include so much more than just yoga.

The retreat house was located at a seaside jungle with a trail leading to the ocean. The days included morning coffee, meditation, yoga, journaling, lessons, homework, self-reflection, and deep conversations. There were workshops, excursions, and even a sound bath thrown into the week. A family of howler monkeys and other creatures would also often join us for our outdoor sessions. To top it off, every meal, snack, and beverage was organic, made from scratch, colorful, and packed with healing nutrients, all prepared with love by our private chef Go Bi.

I am still in awe with what I experienced during that trip. Every moment was a gift, and I’ve gained more emotional, physical, and spiritual strength. I have brought back a piece of Nosara with me and reflect to that space when things become overwhelming. With life happening at a fast pace, especially in this area, it’s so important to pause. The happiness and balance that I’ve found has improved so many aspects of my life, including the relationship I have with each of my kids. For anyone looking to take their own journey in self-discovery, I highly recommend going on a retreat like this one.

JKS Yoga will hold their next retreat in Joshua Tree on October 5-12. They also offer virtual yoga sessions, free recorded classes, and private and group sessions. Visit www.jksyoga.com for more information.

Assessment Payment Options

Assessment payments are due on the first day of each month. To avoid incurring late or other collection related fees, it is recommended to align payment with the due date. Late fees are assessed for payments not posted by the 10th day of the month. BCA offers a variety of payment options and encourages owners to select the method that best suits their needs. Details regarding the various payment options can be found on www.brambletonhoa.com/assessmentpaymentoptions.

Payment options include:

• Mail: Owners may make payment by check or money order mailed to the Association’s lockbox service. Please reference your account number or property address, or include the payment coupon, to ensure the payment is properly recorded.

ƒ Mailing Address: Brambleton Community Association, C/O FirstService Residential, PO Box 30403, Tampa, FL 33630

• Online Bill Pay: Owners may pay assessments using an online bill paying service from their personal banking institution.

• Direct Debit: The owner authorizes withdrawal of the monthly recurring assessment amount from a designated checking or savings account. Owners can sign up for Direct Debit service online at www.clickpay.com/ firstservice.

• ClickPay: This third-party payment service offers owners the ability to make one-time or recurring e-check or credit card paymenta at www.clickpay.com/firstservice. For help with your account or setting up payments online, please contact ClickPay at www.clickpay.com/gethelp, or call 1-888-354-0135 (option 1).

It is important to note that assessment payments are NOT accepted at the BCA Management Office, as all payments are processed by the Association’s bank via a lockbox. Payments delivered to the BCA office will be returned. Please also note that cash cannot be accepted at the BCA office or at FirstService Residential offices for payment of assessments. Please email hoa@brambleton.org for more information or to request online access to your account.

Connect Resident Portal

BCA and FirstService Residential encourage all Brambleton homeowners to use the Connect Resident Portal to access their assessment accounts and view important Association meeting minutes and financial reports. This resident portal makes it easy to access your account anytime and from any device! This resident portal features:

• Payment: A self-service platform empowering you to make payments, check balances, and more.

• Transparency: View BCA Board agendas & meeting minutes, financial reports, audits, and other important documents and reports.

• Simplicity: The ability to link multiple Brambleton properties using a single login for all your online needs.

• Security: Up-to-date security and strict privacy settings give you the highest level of protection.

Register or Login to the Connect Resident Portal at bca.connectresident.com.

Resales & PUD Questionnaires

BCA processes single-family home and townhome resale disclosure packets, PUD questionnaires, and payoff requests through HomeWiseDocs.

BCA Single-Family Homes & Townhomes: BCA has partnered with HomeWiseDocs to offer a streamlined process for the order and delivery of resale, refinance, and lender documents such as: resale disclosures, estoppels, demands, lender questionnaires, and governing documents. Simply visit www.homewisedocs.com to get started.

BCA Condominiums (Residences, Residences II, Summerfield): Condominium properties require information from both BCA and the condominium sub-association for closing. Visit www. fsresidential.com/corporate and select “Order Documents” to order a resale package, request payoff information, or obtain a condominium questionnaire for the sub-association. Visit www.homewisedocs.com to obtain a resale disclosure package and payoff information from BCA.

Visit www.brambletonhoa.com/resales for more information. Owners can contact hoa@brambleton.org for further assistance.

Important Contact Information

Community Management Contacts

Brambleton Community Management Office: 703-542-6263

Residences at Brambleton (FSR): 703-385-1133

Summerfield Condo (FSR): 703-327-4818

BCA Services

Republic Services Recycling & Trash Removal: Brambleton@republicservices.com

Verizon (Activation/Account Changes/Billing/Disconnect): 800-501-1172

Verizon (Repair): 888-553-1555

Utility Contacts

Dominion Electric (North of Ryan Rd): 888-667-3000; www.dominionenergy.com/outage-center

NOVEC (South of Ryan Rd): 888-335-0500; www.novec.com/customer_services

Miss Utility: 800-552-7001

Washington Gas: 703-750-1000

Loudoun Water (Water/Sewer): 571-291-7880; www.loudounwater.org

Builder Information

County Contacts

Emergency (Fire/Rescue/Police): 911 (call or text);

www.sheriff.loudoun.gov

Sheriff (Non-Emergency): 703-777-1021

Alert Loudoun: www.loudoun.gov/alerts

Loudoun County Main Number: 703-777-0100

Animal Care & Control: 703-777-0406

Building Permits: 703-777-0220

Ashburn Post Office: 44715 Prentice Dr 703-406-6291

Brambleton Info Center 23710 Schooler Plz 703-936-7781

www.brambleton.com

Builder Warranty/Customer Care Wiring Integrator

Beazer Homes 888-623-2937; www.beazer.com (Request Service)

Centex/Pulte Homes 888-686-0269; dcservice@pulte.com; www.pulte.com; (Customer Care/Warranty Request)

Gulick Group 703-674-0330 x 143; customerservice@gulickgroup.com; www.gulickgroup.com (Contact Us/Customer Care)

Knutson 703-996-4200; customerservice@knutsoncos.com; www.knutsoncos.com

Miller & Smith 703-821-2500 x 202; warrantyservice@millerandsmith.com; www.millerandsmith.com (Warranty)

Stanley Martin 571-371-0399; WarrantyGroup@StanleyMartin.com; www.StanleyMartin.com (Contact Us)

Toll Brothers 571-291-8000; www.tollbrothers.com; www.mytollhome.com (Warranty)

Tri Pointe Homes (formerly Winchester)

Van Metre

866-844-3235; dcmetro.care@tripointehomes.com; www.tripointehomes.com/warranty-portal-guide

703-348-5800; customercare@vanmetrehomes.com; www.vanmetrehomes.com

Chesapeake Systems Service: 301-317-0001

Vintage Security: 703-689-2731, 877-764-0275 (Toll-free)

Sight & Sound: 703-802-6443

Advanced Wiring Group: 703-996-9850

SmartCom: 540-286-0300

Vintage Security: 703-689-2731, 877-764-0275 (Toll-free)

Sight & Sound: 703-802-6443

Loudoun County 2023 Election

Ageneral election will be held in Loudoun County on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Offices on the ballot will include members of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, Loudoun Constitutional Officers, and members of the Virginia House of Delegates and Virginia Senate. The Loudoun County Office of Elections has provided information to help residents prepare to vote in this election.

Deadlines

• Voter registration deadline: October 16, 2023

• Early & absentee voting begins: September 22, 2023

• Last day to request a ballot by mail: October 27, 2023 by 5:00 p.m.

• Last day to vote absentee in person: November 4, 2023 by 5:00 p.m.

• Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for all elections in Virginia.

Get Election Ready

Check your voter registration status and register to vote at www.vote.virginia.gov. You can also text LCVOTES to 888777 to opt in and receive text alerts for elections dates, absentee voting, and deadlines.

Voters are required to show an acceptable form of photo identification at

their precinct. Acceptable forms include a Virginia driver’s license, a U.S. passport, a student photo ID from a college or university located in the United States, or a government-issued photo ID.

For the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors election, most Brambleton residents are represented by the Little River District, and some residents are represented by the Broad Run District. These districts were adopted by Loudoun County in 2022 due to the redistricting process that occurred after the 2020 Census. Visit www.vote.virginia.gov to confirm your election district.

Absentee Voting: By Mail

All registered voters are eligible to cast an absentee ballot by mail in the November election. The last day to request an absentee ballot to be mailed to your location is Friday, October 27 by 5:00 p.m. Marked absentee ballots must be received in the Office of Elections by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day (11/7).

Absentee ballot requests can be made online at www.vote.virginia.gov. If you need assistance obtaining an absentee ballot application, call 703-777-0380 or email vote@loudoun.gov.

Absentee Voting: In-Person

In-person absentee voting will be held at

the Loudoun County Office of Elections (750 Miller Dr. SE, Suite C, Leesburg). In-person early voting starts on Friday, September 22 and ends on Saturday, November 4. In-person absentee voting will also be available at Dulles South Senior Center (24950 Riding Center Dr, South Riding) in October (specific dates TBA). Visit www.loudoun.gov/voteearly for all local early voting locations, dates, and hours.

Election Day Voting

On Election Day, voters must go to their assigned precinct to vote. Visit www. loudoun.gov/2782/Polling-Place-Lookup to look up your specific precinct. If you have a disability or mobility issues, a curbside voting option is available. Visit www.loudoun.gov/voteonelectionday for more information.

Become an Election Officer

If you are interested in becoming an Election officer at your voting location, visit www.loudoun.gov/158/Signing-Up. Election officers are paid for working on Election Day (full day or half day). Election officers may work as unpaid volunteers if they so choose. A signed statement verifying your work on election day will also be provided.

For more information on the 2023 general election, please visit www.loudoun. gov/vote.

Paul Gentine - Communications Coordinator

Resident Spotlight: Tim Groszkowski

We spoke with longtime Brambleton resident Tim Groszkowski about his experiences as a local beekeeper, his knowledge about sustainable solar practices and bee swarming behaviors, and more! Look for an extended version of this article on the BCA Facebook page in early September.

How long have you lived in Brambleton? What prompted you to choose Brambleton? This year will mark 15 years of our family living in Brambleton. We selected Brambleton because it checked all the boxes: a selection of homes that fit our needs, great schools, and amenities near all that the DMV has to offer.

What inspired you to become a beekeeper? I previously owned and operated Great Harvest Bread Company. It is a made-from-scratch operation where we used a large amount of honey in our breads. I thought it would be fun to get into beekeeping to highlight and support the bees, so I purchased my first beehive in 2016.

Since then, I have taken a beekeeping class at George Mason University, because there is so much more to beekeeping than just honey! My apiary currently has five active hives that are a stone’s throw from Brambleton. More recently, I’ve had the opportunity to visit several elementary school classes in Loudoun and teach them about bees.

What is your most interesting experience as a beekeeper? The most interesting experience to date was a surprise visit by a bear that destroyed two hives this spring. It’s no secret that bears are in the area, but they never bothered the hives before this year. I have since invested in a solar electric fence to prevent this from happening in the future.

How does your work in the solar industry complement your interests in beekeeping and sustainability? I am a utility-scale solar developer working to develop solar and battery storage facilities across the United States. I’m happy to share that solar farms are great for bees! With over a 25-year life span, these pollinator-friendly solar farms are essentially becoming private habitat reserves for pollinators desperately in need of them. Solar Based Beekeeping gives back to the environment through the pollination of plots of pollinator habitat. Solar projects planted with a ground cover of native pollinator plants provide much-needed habitat and diverse food sources for critical pollinators like bees and butterflies.

What is something people don’t typically know about bees? Many people do not know why bees swarm. Swarms may contain hundreds or even thousands of bees that people have come to fear. Swarming bees are actually nonthreatening, and the swarming behavior is a natural means for bees to reproduce.

When a hive becomes overcrowded, the queen bee will leave with a group of worker bees to start a new colony. If the swarm is not relocated, it could end up in an inconvenient location, such as an attic or cavity inside your home.

You can prevent bees and other insects from nesting in your home with preventive maintenance. Honeybees will not create an entrance to a nest but rather look for an existing opening. Periodic inspection and sealing of holes and cracks where bees can get in will help stop them from setting up residence in buildings.

What are your family’s favorite Brambleton activities and events? We enjoy exercising on the extensive Brambleton trails, and our kids like the Town Center and often make their way to The Filling Co. The summer concerts and BrewFest are also fun to attend.

BCA Communications

Brambleton Community Association utilizes a variety of resources in order to communicate with Brambleton residents in a timely and engaging manner. Here are some of the ways that we connect with the Brambleton community.

Friday Flash and Stay Connected

The Friday Flash is a weekly bulletin sent via email to benefit the residents of Brambleton. The purpose of the Flash is to keep residents aware of upcoming community events and programs, future committee meetings, BCA rules, and community governance. Residents can sign up to receive the Flash via email or text by clicking on the “Stay Connected” button at www.brambletonhoa.com and following the instructions.

In addition to the Friday Flash, BCA’s Stay Connected email subscription service also allows residents to receive updates on community news, fertilizer and weed applications, and more. Just click on the icons next to the relevant list items to subscribe.

Quarterly Magazine

The Brambleton Community Association self-publishes a visually rich and engaging quarterly magazine in March, June, September, and December, which is mailed to all Brambleton residents. In addition, the magazine is published digitally and archived on the BCA website, and printed copies are available at the BCA Management Office and in the Welcome Center.

If you would like to view digital versions of our past magazine issues, please visit www.brambletonhoa.com/communications. Advertising spaces are also available in the magazine. If you are interested in advertising with us, please send us a message at communications@brambleton.org.

Website and Social Media

Visit www.brambletonhoa.com for community news, event and meeting updates, and information on all BCA services and programs. News and updates are also posted on our Facebook and LinkedIn pages. Also, follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ brambletonlife, and add #bramlife to your social media posts to share your content with the Brambleton community!

#Bramlife Videos

The #Bramlife video series is produced to inform residents about everything happening in Brambleton. These videos cover topics including community news, events, and programming. We post our #Bramlife videos on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube page, so there are multiple places for you to catch up on what’s going on in our community. We have also created educational videos, such as administration and service videos, which provide residents with useful information in a unique and entertaining way.

How to Reach Us

We Love to Hear from You!

You can reach us anytime via email. Here is a short list of easy to remember email addresses. It is our goal to respond to all inquiries within two business days. If you have not received a reply, please contact us at 703-542-6263.

hoa@brambleton.org

operations@brambleton.org

Start here and we'll be glad to help!

Reach our Operations team for questions or concerns regarding BCA’s common areas, pools, or other facilities.

communitystandards@ brambleton.org

communications@ brambleton.org

Request attention to a concern or request information about BCA’s Community Standards.

BCA Drop Box

A drop box is available after hours and is located outside of the BCA office building at 42395 Ryan Road. Residents may drop off Design Review Applications, committee applications, etc. Monthly assessments are not accepted.

designreview@ brambleton.org

Contact us about all things communications, including social media, the Friday Flash, our videos, and our magazine. Obtain information regarding the Design Review process and request or follow up on an application.

events@brambleton.org

programs@brambleton.org

rentals@brambleton.org

Find out about our amazing events!

Learn about a BCA program, camp, or activity.

Ask questions about renting a community facility.

BCA Management Office

42395 Ryan Road, Suite 210, Brambleton, VA 20148 703-542-6263; 703-542-6266 (fax) hoa@brambleton.org

Walk-In Hours: M–F, 8 AM–12 PM

Appointment Hours: M-Th, 8 AM–5 PM; Fri, 8 AM–12 PM

Official BCA Communications

www.brambletonhoa.com

Check Us Out on Social Media

“Like” Brambleton Community Association on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at brambletonlife. You can also find us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ brambleton-community-association.

Important Disclaimers

Please visit our website at www. brambletonhoa.com/disclaimers for our publishing and media use disclaimers.

Tri Pointe Homes Solis at West Park

S hop Loc a l AT BRAMBLETON TOWN CENTER

Thank you for continuing to support our retailers and restaurants!

A&A Music

Ahso Cellars

Ahso Restaurant

Animal Medical Centers of Loudoun

Asian Spice Cafe

Associates for Counseling Services

B&T Dry Cleaners

Bella Ballerina

Best Brains Learning Center

Bloō Dental

Blue Ridge Grill

Brambleton Community Association

Brambleton Library

Broadlands Family Practice

BurgerIM

California Tortilla

Cold Stone Creamery

Commonhealth Chiropractic

Yong-In

Eclips Salon & Day Spa

Edible Arrangements

Fair fax Pediatric A ssociates

Filling C o. Gas & Grub

G3 Technologies

G alaria Plastic Surger y & Dermatology

Go Bananas Toy Store

Good Dog Rocky

Great Clips

Harris Teeter

Himalayan Wild Yak

Illusions Hair Salon & Spa

InSight Eye Optique

Jackson Clinics Physical Therapy

Knutson Companies

Levo Nails & Spa

iles Pediatric Dentistry

My Thai Place

Nick’s Taverna

Northern Virginia Orthodontics

NVO Center for Invisalign

Onelife Fitness

Peet’s Coffee & Tea

Regal Fox Cinemas 4DX & IMAX

Rebel Taco

Restore Hyper Wellness

Scotto’s Rigatoni Grill

Shell Gas Station

Starbucks

Subway

Sweetfrog Frozen Yogurt

The UPS Store

Verizon Wireless Center

Virginia ABC Store

C osta Family Dentistr y Dragon

42395 RYAN RD. BRAMBLETON,