"Building a Stronger Community Through Education, Information, and Inspiration"

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association

Communications Committee - July 1, 2025 Edition!

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Community Matters: A Refreshing Drink and a Deeper Connection

Last Friday turned out to be a memorable afternoon, perfect for a refreshing drink. It was one of those scorching June days when the sun felt relentless. I decided to stop by a local food truck, "Citrus for Real," at the Community Center. This small, veteran-owned business promised a unique twist on classic drinks, and I was excited to try their Strawberry Lemonade.

As I approached, I was greeted by Brandon Divins, the owner. His greeting instantly made me feel welcome. After ordering my drink, he surprised me by stepping out of the truck and inviting me to sit on the bench nearby. It was an unexpected gesture but one that I deeply appreciated.

We began chatting, and the conversation flowed easily soon after. Both of us shared our experiences in the US Air Force, recounting stories that stirred memories of camaraderie and the challenges we faced. We were both Military Training Instructors. It was heartening to connect with someone who understood the unique bond formed by our service. But it was our discussion about personal grief that struck a deeper chord. Brandon opened up about the losses he had faced, and I found myself doing the same, sharing my own stories of heartache.

In that small moment, we built a connection that transcended our shared military background. It was about recognition, empathy, and the shared human experience of loss and healing.

Finishing my drink, I felt more than just quenched. I was reminded of the resilience and kindness of others, especially those who had faced their battles. I want to thank Brandon Divins not only for the delicious Strawberry Lemonade but also for his service to our country and the genuine humanity he showed me that day. It's encounters like these that remind me of the strength of community and the importance of supporting each other, one good deed at a time.

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher

Weaving the community together one stitch at a time!

I would like to recognize and give a big Westcreek Shout Out to Deanna Ruiz Gonzales for starting the Hooks & Needles Group!

Thanks to Deanna’s initiative, neighbors now have a cozy space to gather, chat, and share their love for knitting, crocheting, and crafting. The group meets Thursday mornings from 9:00 AM to noon at the Community Center, and it’s open to all skill levels — whether you’re a pro or just picking up your first pair of needles. 

Deanna has been a neighbor for over 20 years. She started this group in her own home originally and recently got too many members and was looking for a larger place to get together. Deanna generates so much sharing between all members; makes everyone feel welcome, and I want her to know how much she means to me, and I speak for all our members when I say our neighborhood really treasures her. I invite everyone to stop by and say hi to Deanna any Thursday morning to see for yourself.

Thank you, Deanna, for weaving the community together one stitch at a time! 

Submitted by: Coral Fathy

GOT A NEIGHBOR YOU WANT TO RECOGNIZE?

Remember that neighbors don’t have to live next door, just someone who lives in Westcreek. It could be as simple as a mom who helps out by picking up a child from school, a neighbor who cuts your yard for you just because, or brings in your trash cans. It does not have to be a grand gesture, just something that made your life easier, made you happy, or was just thoughtful.

If you would like to recognize their good deeds and show your appreciation, please submit your recommendation by a deadline of the 20th day of the month prior to publication to: frontoffice@villagesofwestcreek.com.

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

This meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, in the VWOA Community Center. Please click on the link below for the agenda and details:

https://conta.cc/4l3C9Ng

SUGGESTION AND RECOMMENDATION COMMITTEE

Our next meeting will take place on July 15, 2025 at 6:30 PM at the VWOA Community Center.

The official meeting agenda will be sent out in "What's the Buzz" before the meeting.

We look forward to meeting you!

Get ready to kick off another exciting season—our 2025 Fall Soccer Program is officially open for registration! We’re thrilled to welcome players ages 3–16 for eight weeks of games, followed by a season tournament where champions will be crowned in each age group.

Whether your child is just starting out or already a seasoned player, our program offers a fun and team-oriented environment for all skill levels.

We are also in need of volunteer coaches to help lead our teams and make this season a success. If you’re passionate about soccer and working with kids, we’d love to have you on board.

Discounts are available for:

• Westcreek Residents
• Families registering multiple players
• Volunteer Coaches

Register now at: vwoa.leagueapps.com

Questions? Email us at: activities@villagesofwestcreek.com or call us at: 210-679-8761.

Don’t wait—spots fill up quickly! Let’s make the 2025 season our best yet!

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS

Take a short 50-minute drive up I-35 and experience a unique city, known for its German and Hispanic heritages. Since 1845, New Braunfels has provided a diverse quality of life for its residents, visitors, and business community. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., while also being named one of the 50 best places to live in the country.

Despite its smaller size compared to Austin or San Antonio, New Braunfels offers a multitude of activities and experiences. 

Two beautiful rivers, the Comal and the Guadalupe, run through the heart of New Braunfels. The Guadalupe offers some of the best tubing, kayaking and rafting in the state. The Guadalupe is quite chilly, but it’s an ideal place to cool off on a hot Texas summer day. New Braunfels is also a short drive from the boating and fishing offered at Canyon Lake. The city features dozens of local parks including Fischer Park overlooking the city and Landa Park located within walking distance of the downtown area. Landa Park has a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a mini-golf course. You can also rent a paddleboat and explore the lake or take a stroll through the lovely botanical gardens.

New Braunfels is home to Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Texas’ oldest bakery Naegelin’s Bakery, the 10-day festival known as Wurstfest, as well as the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns & Wildlife Ranch, and the Texas Ski Ranch.

History buffs should stop in nearby Gruene Historic District. This district is home to some of the oldest buildings in New Braunfels, including the Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas. In addition to its rich history, the Gruene Historic District also offers a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

New Braunfels has big plans for July 4 with an old-fashioned, small-town parade followed by a short patriotic musical program from the New Braunfels Community Band on Main Plaza. The parade kicks off downtown at 9:15 AM. The Independence Day festivities in Landa Park begin with a concert at 6:00 PM, followed by the RE/MAX Skydiving Team parachuting into the golf course ahead of the 9:15 PM fireworks.

For more information about New Braunfels, visit https://newbraunfels.gov.

Discover Senior Planet – Right Here in San Antonio! 

If you haven’t checked out Senior Planet yet, you’re in for a treat! It’s a fun, free program designed especially for folks 60 and up who want to stay sharp, active, and connected—whether it’s learning to use your smartphone, joining a Zoom fitness class, or picking up new hobbies like photography or creative writing. 

What’s even better? San Antonio has its own Senior Planet locations, so you can take part in classes and events either in person or online—whatever suits you best. 

They offer everything from: 

• Tech help (learn how to use your phone, tablet, or computer) 
• Exercise classes (like yoga and strength training) 
• Interest groups (art, music, even book clubs) 
• Workshops on things like online safety, social media, and more 

It's all free, and the community is super friendly and welcoming. Want to learn more? Visit www.seniorplanet.org or stop by a local center.  

Senior Planet San Antonio is located at 702 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 

(Inside the Central Library building)

Whether you’re just curious or ready to jump in, Senior Planet is a great way to learn something new and meet others doing the same. 

In a few days, we will celebrate the Fourth of July. Like years past, you can count on fireworks being a part of the celebration. Fireworks also pose a threat to house fires. With that in mind, we would like to share some simple tips on protecting your home from fires caused by fireworks.

CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS

Most homeowners are guilty of having gutters filled with leaves, twigs, and other flammable debris. It just takes a stray spark from a firework to set off a fire that suddenly engulfs your gutters and roof. To avoid this, please ensure all your gutters are cleaned and cleared. Also, ensure that your roof is free from accumulated leaves. Dispose of all the debris in your landscape because it can just as quickly catch fire.

WATER YOUR LANDSCAPE

Another tip is to water your landscape and fence line before you and your neighbors start a fireworks celebration. A fire in your landscape can quickly spread toward your home and cause fire damage.

If you plan to include fireworks in your celebration, please review the Fire Marshal's website for information regarding the Prohibited use of Fireworks.

Abandoned vehicles on public streets can be a nuisance and a safety hazard, especially when left unattended for extended periods. In the unincorporated areas of Bexar County, Texas, rules and regulations are in place to deal with abandoned vehicles.

What is Considered an Abandoned Vehicle?

• An abandoned vehicle is a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer left unattended on a public street, highway, or right-of-way for more than 48 hours. The vehicle must also be inoperable, wrecked, dismantled, or partially dismantled.

Are Vehicles on Public Streets Considered Abandoned if They Don't Have a License Plate Affixed to the Vehicle?

• Yes, a vehicle on a public street without a license plate affixed to it can be considered abandoned if it meets the above criteria. Even if the vehicle is parked legally, it can be classified as abandoned if left unattended for over 48 hours and is inoperable, wrecked, dismantled, or partially dismantled.

Who Has Jurisdiction to Enforce It?

• The Bexar County Sheriff's Office has jurisdiction over the unincorporated areas of Bexar County. It is responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations related to abandoned vehicles. If you see an abandoned vehicle on a public street in the unincorporated areas of Bexar County, you can report it to the Bexar County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office will investigate the report and take appropriate action.

What Happens to Abandoned Vehicles?

• If a vehicle is determined to be abandoned, the Sheriff's Office will post a notice on the vehicle indicating that it will be removed within a certain period of time. If the vehicle owner does not claim it within the specified time, it will be towed and impounded. The vehicle's owner will pay all towing and impound fees. If the owner does not claim the vehicle and pay the fees within a certain period of time, the vehicle may be sold at public auction.

Abandoned vehicles on public streets can be a nuisance and a safety hazard. In the unincorporated areas of Bexar County, Texas, the Bexar County Sheriff's Office has jurisdiction to enforce the rules and regulations related to abandoned vehicles. If you see an abandoned vehicle on a public street, you can report it to the Sheriff's Office, and they will take appropriate action. Remember that it is the responsibility of vehicle owners to dispose of their vehicles properly, and failure to do so can result in fines and penalties

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