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

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association

Communications Committee - June 1, 2025 Edition!

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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 20^th day of the month prior to publication to: frontoffice@villagesofwestcreek.com.

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

This meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in the VWOA Community Center. Please click on the link below for the agenda and details:

https://conta.cc/3Fljop1

SUGGESTION AND RECOMMENDATION COMMITTEE

Attention homeowners! We have re-established the Suggestion and Recommendation Committee (SARC) to improve our neighborhood and would like to invite you to join us! Our first meeting was a great success, and we would like to thank the homeowners who were able to join us!

Our next meeting will take place via Zoom on June 10 at 6:30 PM, due to the Community Center being utilized for nighttime BINGO. Please come prepared with your ideas about how our community can be improved. The official link to the Zoom Meeting will be sent out in "What's the Buzz".

We look forward to meeting you!

Father's Day is a special time of year when we celebrate and honor all the amazing dads in the Villages of Westcreek. These fathers work tirelessly to provide for their families, teach their children important life lessons, and offer unwavering support and love each and every day.

We want to take a moment to recognize all of the incredible dads in our community and thank you for everything you do. Whether you are a new dad, a seasoned father, or a grandfather, we appreciate all that you bring to our community.

To all the dads in the Villages of Westcreek, we wish you a happy Father's Day filled with love, joy, and appreciation. You are an important part of our community, and we are grateful for all that you do. Thank you for being amazing role models, providers, and sources of unconditional love for your families.

Important Information for Homeowners Affected by the Military Drive West Construction Project

If you are a homeowner living along the Military Drive West Construction project and have incurred property damage, knowing your rights and the avenues available for pursuing a claim is essential. Harper Brothers Construction Company is responsible for the construction activities in this area, and if you believe their work has impacted your property, you should take action.

Steps to Take

1. Document Your Property Damage: Before contacting Harper Brothers Construction, thoroughly document your property's damage. Take photographs and notes detailing the extent of the damage and any related issues you have encountered.

2. Gather Evidence: Gather evidence that might support your claim, such as witness statements or photos showing the condition of your property before the construction project.

3. Contact Harper Brothers Construction Company: If you are ready to pursue a claim, you can contact Harper Brothers Construction Company directly using the following contact information. Reggie Fountain, Alamo RMA Operations Engineer, stated, "It is usually the best practice to contact the corporate office on claim-related inquiries." You will find their contact information on their website:   

https://www.harperbro.com/

After contacting Harper Brothers Construction, be prepared to discuss the damage they have caused and the evidence you have collected. It’s advisable to keep a record of all communications for your reference. If you do not receive a satisfactory response, you may want to consult a lawyer specializing in construction-related claims to discuss further legal action.

It’s important to act promptly if you believe you have a valid claim against Harper Brothers Construction Company. By following the steps outlined and reaching out using the provided contact information, you can take the first steps toward seeking compensation for property damage resulting from the Military Drive West Construction project. Your rights as a homeowner are important, and taking action can help address your concerns.

2025 MAILBOX REPLACEMENT UPDATE

We’re excited to announce that the second phase of mailbox replacements for 2025 is complete! During the Quarter 2 Board Meeting in April 2025, the Board of Directors approved the replacement of nine mailbox clusters, and we’re happy to report that all of them have been successfully installed.

We are now working on pricing and preparing for the next phase of mailbox replacements. Please note that our priority at this time is to replace mailboxes that are not receiving mail and have been deemed irreparable. If your mailbox cluster is not receiving mail, and there’s no visible damage or a notice from USPS requesting you contact your HOA, it’s possible that USPS has already submitted an internal work order for repairs.

Stay tuned for further updates, and thank you for your continued patience as we work to improve our community!

On the evening of Saturday, May 17, 2025, the monument near the clock tower was struck by a vehicle, resulting in noticeable damage. Our team has been actively addressing the aftermath and taking steps toward restoration.

We are in the process of collecting repair proposals and are currently awaiting the official crash report. This report is essential for filing the necessary insurance claim. In preparation, our maintenance team has safely removed vehicle parts and consolidated debris into a single location, pending further instructions from the insurance provider or an appraiser.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate this process. Our goal is to restore the monument as efficiently and responsibly as possible, and we will continue to share updates as progress is made.

At the Villages of Westcreek, we are committed to preserving a high quality of life within our community while ensuring all homeowners are treated with fairness and respect.

In accordance with Texas Property Code Chapter 209, also known as the Texas Residential Property Owners Protection Act, our association is required to follow specific legal procedures before taking enforcement action for any potential rule violations.

When a violation of the governing documents is observed by the Standards Driver while in the community, a violation notice is issued to the homeowner via USPS mail and email if the homeowner has opted in. This notice includes a designated cure period in compliance with Chapter 209, during which the homeowner may correct the violation.

If the violation is not resolved by the end of the cure period, the matter is escalated in accordance with Administrative Resolution 53. Before any further action—such as referring the matter to the HOA’s attorney or initiating force maintenance—a certified and regular mail notice must be sent, again specifying a cure period.

It's important to understand that even if a violation is escalated to the HOA’s attorney and legal proceedings begin, this does not authorize the HOA to enter a homeowner’s property, nor does it guarantee compliance with the governing documents. Another item to note is that when an account is sent to the attorney or approved for force maintenance, the HOA pays the costs upfront and charges them back to the homeowner to recoup the charges.

We strongly encourage any homeowner who receives a violation notice or has concerns to contact us directly. Our goal is always to resolve matters amicably, fairly, and in the best interest of the community.

Together, let’s continue making the Villages of Westcreek a great place to live.

If you're looking for ways to get involved in your community and make a difference, why not consider volunteering to serve on one of the many committees that help keep the neighborhood running smoothly? You have a wide variety, including Architectural Review, Suggestions and Recommendations, Communications, Finance, and Nomination committees, and community-wide events.

To get started, contact the Villages of Westcreek Community Manager by email at cm@villagesofwestcreek.com or 210-679-8761. The Community Manager will be able to provide you with more information about the different committees and help you find the right fit for your skills and interests.

Volunteering on a committee is a great way to meet your neighbors, have a say in community decisions, and contribute to the overall well-being of the Villages of Westcreek. So don't hesitate to reach out today and see how you can make a difference in your community!

PROPER FLAG RETIREMENT

On June 14th we celebrate National Flag Day. Do you have a flag that you recently retired due to it being tattered, faded, or worn? If so, the local Boy Scout troop has a flag retirement box located in the homeowners' association office. You can drop your flag off in the box during regular business hours for it to be properly retired. The troop picks up the flags every few months. So please don’t throw old worn-out flags out; bring them in and drop them off. The box is located in the lobby just inside the front door.

Join the Fun at Hooks and Needles Crochet Group!

Are you searching for a cozy spot to unleash your creativity? Look no further! Ro D'Amico Tiso discovered her passion for crochet through an online connection with Deanna Ruiz Gonzalez, which led to the formation of the Hooks and Needles group in 2023. We are also excited to have Monteen Soldani-Flowers and Rhonda Drummonds join our vibrant community!

Initially, our group convened in Deanna's home, but as interest grew, we needed a larger space to accommodate our expanding family of crafters. Thankfully, Deanna reached out to the Westcreek Office, and we secured the Community Center for our weekly gatherings.

This season, we're excited to work on a heartwarming community service project—selling our handcrafted creations to raise funds for the Angel Tree at the Westcreek Community Center this Christmas. It's gratifying to give back while doing what we love!

We invite you and your little ones to join us! Deanna is passionate about sharing the joy of crochet and is eager to teach newcomers. With the school year wrapping up, it's a perfect opportunity for kids to dive into a fulfilling new hobby!

Join us every Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Westcreek Community Center. Feel free to bring a dessert to share—we all love a sweet treat! And don't miss out on the fun; we play bingo from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM with prizes generously donated by our members. You can bring prizes from the Dollar Tree or whatever you'd like to contribute. Laughter is guaranteed!

Please mark your calendars for September 7, 2025, as we celebrate our second anniversary! We can't wait to share many more years of crafting, fun, and friendship with you all!

WIMBERLEY, TEXAS

Wimberley is a small Hill Country town known for its natural beauty, with swimming holes, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Despite its size, there are plenty of fun things to do in Wimberley. Here are some suggestions for your next trip. www.visitwimberley.com

Blue Hole Regional Park. This natural swimming hole is surrounded by limestone cliffs and towering trees, making it the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day. The park also offers hiking/biking trails, picnic areas, and a playscape for children. Reservations are required for the swim area during the swim season (May 1 through Labor Day, and weekends in September). All other recreational areas are free, open to the public, and do not require reservations. https://wimberleyparksandrec.com/blue-hole-regional-park/

Cypress Falls Swimming Hole. The Cypress Falls swimming hole is located on the largest portion of Cypress Creek.

Jacob's Well Natural Area. Jacobs Well is an artisan spring that releases thousands of gallons of water a day. It stays a constant temperature of 68 degrees and is the second largest fully submerged cave in Texas. Unfortunately, swimming is closed for the foreseeable future because of low water levels.

Old Baldy Hiking Trail. Hike the 218 rock steps and you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Wimberley valley. Located only about 2.5 miles from the square in downtown Wimberley.

Other outdoor activities include Patsy Glen Bird Refuge, Emily Ann Gardens, and Wimberley Zipline Adventure.

Wimberley Glassworks. Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces in their studio, and browse their showroom for unique souvenirs. The Glassworks also offers hands-on classes. Watch free glass blowing demonstrations Thursday- Sunday 10:30 AM-3:30 PM.

Silo Gallery & Glass Studio. Silo Gallery features 30 Texas artists specializing in 3D art forms. Set next to a beautiful grotto with two relaxing waterfalls, Silo Studio is the largest purpose built, warm glass studio in Central Texas. Now joined by a remodeled architectural showroom and studio.‍

Jack Glover Cowboy Museum. A favorite stop for visitors of all ages is the nearly seven-foot-tall Jackalope outside—perfect for a fun photo and a taste of Texas folklore.

Local wineries.  The Wimberley Valley Winery, Driftwood Estate Winery, and Duchman Family Winery are all within a short drive and offer tastings and tours. Wimberley also offers a delightful array of wineries, breweries, and distilleries. 

Upcoming Events:

Summer Kickoff Party June 7, 2025 noon –6:00 PM at Willow Lake Watering Hole & Mercantile, featuring live music, plenty of family fun activities, food, a raffle, and more. Proceeds benefit Camp CommUnity, a Wimberley nonprofit that supports children in the community when schools out.

Make Music Day June 21, 2025. Wimberley is joining the worldwide celebration of Make Music Day, a global event that brings communities together through the joy of live music. From downtown sidewalks to local venues, parks, and porches, Wimberley will be alive with the sound of free, live music performances from musicians of all genres and skill levels. https://www.visitwimberleytx.org/events/make-music-day/

Henson Square June Music Series Saturdays in June and July, noon-3pm. Free live local music.

Wimberley Market Days. Finally, don't miss the famous Wimberley Market Days. Held on the first Saturday of every month (7:00 AM-4:00 PM) March through December, this outdoor market features more than 475 vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to antiques. Enjoy live local music on three stages. It's a great way to experience the local flavor and culture of Wimberley.

Water-Wise Wonders: Designing a Low-Maintenance Japanese Landscape

As temperatures soar, especially after the intense heat of last May, consider shifting your landscape from water-guzzling towards a xeriscape, emphasizing low-maintenance designs with appealing themes. One attractive option to explore is the Japanese garden, which can be divided into two primary styles: Zen and traditional Japanese. Both styles are stunning and culturally rich, but differ in design and upkeep, making Zen gardens particularly suitable for arid regions like South Texas.

Japanese Zen Gardens

Japanese Zen gardens, known as "karesansui," are characterized by their minimalist design and are created for meditation. These gardens typically feature raked gravel or sand arranged to mimic flowing water and carefully placed stones, moss, and small plants. The focus is on creating a serene atmosphere rather than lush greenery.

The primary advantage of Zen gardens is their low water requirement, making them ideal for drought-prone areas since they need little to no irrigation. The minimalist design encourages personal creativity, allowing you to form unique patterns in the gravel and rocks.

Advantages of Zen Gardens:

• Low Water Needs: Designed to use minimal water, making them environmentally sustainable.
• Easy Maintenance: Simple upkeep, largely involving gravel raking.
• Promotes Calm: Excellent for creating tranquil spaces for reflection.
• Creative Freedom: Offers flexibility in design without requiring extensive gardening knowledge.

Disadvantages of Zen Gardens:

• Limited Vegetation: May not appeal to those seeking a vibrant garden full of plants.
• Potentially Stark Appearance: Can look barren without careful design considerations.

For areas like South Texas that experience frequent drought, Japanese Zen gardens represent a practical and environmentally friendly option. Their low maintenance and minimal water needs create a peaceful and beautiful space while addressing climate change and water scarcity concerns. By embracing a Zen garden, you can cultivate a landscape that beautifully merges aesthetics with resilience. 

Traditional Japanese Gardens

In contrast, traditional Japanese gardens, or "nihon teien," are more elaborate. They often incorporate ponds, streams, stone bridges, and a diverse range of plant life, all intended to reflect the beauty of nature. However, maintaining their lush designs can be resource-intensive, requiring significant water, which can be challenging in arid climates.

If the idea of a pond doesn't appeal to you, consider incorporating a variety of affordable water fountains into your traditional garden design. Create a dry creek bed illuminated by blue lights to simulate the look of flowing water. Nearby, place a soothing water fountain that offers the calming sound of running water. 

For plantings, focus on drought-tolerant species that bloom throughout the growing season, ensuring vibrant color with minimal water needs. To add year-round color, you can include hanging baskets and planters filled with lifelike, fade-resistant artificial plants that require no water or chemicals and don't need to be protected from winter weather. You can use synthetic grass to maintain the lush appearance of green space without the maintenance demands of live grass.

Advantages of Traditional Gardens:

• Diverse Plant Life: Provides a rich and vibrant landscape.
• Cultural Significance: Reflects the aesthetics and philosophies of Japanese culture.

Disadvantages of Traditional Gardens:

• High Water Requirements: Plants need substantial water to sustain them.
• Labor Intensive: More complex and time-consuming to maintain.

As you embark on the journey of creating your Japanese garden, remember that this is a personal expression of your creativity and vision. By joining the various Facebook Groups dedicated to garden design, you’ll have access to a wealth of inspiration and ideas from fellow enthusiasts. Don’t hesitate to explore, share, and collaborate with others who share your passion. Let the tranquil beauty of a Japanese garden guide your creativity, and allow yourself to enjoy the process of designing a space that reflects your unique style. Happy gardening!

Shining a Light on Safety: The Importance of Outdoor Illumination in the Villages of Westcreek

Residents of the Villages of Westcreek may have noticed limited lighting in certain areas of the neighborhood. This lack of lighting can create a perfect environment for criminals looking to engage in nefarious activities such as vandalism and theft. With adequate lighting, it can be easier for homeowners to prevent crime and protect their property.

The importance of lighting in crime prevention cannot be overstated. It is a deterrent to potential criminals, as they are less likely to engage in unlawful activities in well-lit areas where they may be easily spotted. Lighting also improves the chances of identifying criminals and gives residents a sense of security.

Fortunately, residents can take steps to improve the lighting around their homes' exteriors. One option is to install motion-activated outdoor lights. These lights automatically turn on when someone approaches, which can scare off potential criminals and alert homeowners to suspicious activity.

Another option is to install landscape lighting around the property. This lighting not only adds an aesthetic appeal to the home but also helps to illuminate the area, making it difficult for criminals to go unnoticed. Residents can also opt for low-voltage lighting, which is energy-efficient and provides a soft glow around the property. Residents also need to keep trees and shrubs pruned to maximize lighting around their homes.

Remember that lighting is just one aspect of effective crime prevention. Installing security cameras, securing doors and windows, and being vigilant about reporting suspicious activity are other measures that can keep the community safe.

In conclusion, limited lighting in the Villages of Westcreek can significantly impact crime prevention. Residents can proactively improve the lighting around their homes and deter potential criminals. By working together as a community and taking the necessary precautions, residents can help create a safer and more secure neighborhood.

As the summer sun shines bright, many of us look forward to outdoor adventures with our furry friends. Taking your dog for a walk is a wonderful way to bond and keep them healthy, but it’s crucial to be mindful of the heat, especially when walking on paved surfaces. The hotter months can pose unique challenges for our pets, and understanding these can help keep them safe and happy.

The Dangers of Hot Paved Surfaces

Did you know that the temperature of paved surfaces can be significantly higher than the air temperature? When the sun shines down on blacktop or concrete, it absorbs and retains heat, which can lead to dangerously high surface temperatures. Dogs, unlike humans, don’t wear shoes, and their paw pads are susceptible to burns if they walk on hot pavement for too long.

Here’s a simple comparison of outdoor air temperature versus the temperature of paved surfaces:

As you can see, the difference can be staggering! Just because the air feels comfortable doesn’t mean the ground is safe for your dog to walk on.

Signs of Overheating and Burns

Always check the ground temperature first if you must walk your dog during the hot months. A simple method is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for about seven seconds. It’s too hot for your dog if it's uncomfortable for you. Watch for signs of overheating, which can include excessive panting, drooling, or reluctance to continue walking. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek shade and cool your pup down immediately. 

Keeping Your Dog Hydrated

While protecting their paws is critical, hydration is equally important. Dogs can easily dehydrate in hot weather, and walks can increase their thirst. Always bring water for your pet on walks, even short ones. Offering water regularly encourages them to drink, helping to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.

An easy option for carrying water for your dog is to use portable dog bowls or hydration packs designed for pet travel. This way, you can ensure that they stay refreshed and can enjoy their time outdoors without the risk of overheating.

To make summer walks as safe and enjoyable as possible, consider these tips:

1. Choose the Right Time: Walk early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.

2. Stay on Grass: If possible, stick to grass or shaded pathways to reduce paw pad exposure to hot surfaces.

3. Shorter Walks: To help keep your pup comfortable, opt for shorter, more frequent outings instead of long walks.

4. Know Your Dog: Some breeds are more sensitive to heat than others. Pay extra attention to brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs) as they can struggle more in the heat.

5. Invest in Paw Protection: If you’ll be walking on hot surfaces frequently, consider getting dog booties to protect your dog's paw pads from burns.

Walking your dog during the hot summer months can be a joyful experience with just a bit of preparation and awareness. Keeping an eye on surface temperatures, providing plenty of water, and adjusting your walking schedule will help ensure your dog has a safe and enjoyable outing. Remember, our furry friends rely on us to keep them safe, so let’s make sure they can enjoy the summer to the fullest!

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