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

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association

Communications Committee - March 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.

March Communications Committee Meeting

This meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in the VWOA Community Center. Please click on the link below for the agenda and details:

https://conta.cc/3F0MN7h

Submitted by: Barbara Lee - VWOA Communications Committee, Chair

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERS

The Annual Meeting of the Members to elect two of our Board members is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2024, at 6 PM in the Community Center Hall. This meeting will also be available on Zoom.

While the deadline has passed to submit your nomination to appear on the written ballot to be mailed out to the homeowners or on the Electronic Voting System ballots, new nominations will be accepted at the annual meeting. Votes cast at the annual meeting will override previous absentee ballots and Electronic Voting Systems ballots.

Submitted by: Maria - VWOA Community Manager

Exciting Updates to Our Community Website!

We heard your feedback, and we’re thrilled to share that we’re in the process of updating our community website! While we’re still making improvements, we’ve already made some exciting changes to enhance your experience.

First and foremost, we’ve given the website a fresh new look! The layout and design have been updated to make it more user-friendly and visually appealing. Plus, navigating on a mobile device is now easier than ever, so you can stay connected while on the go.

In addition, we’ve moved some key documents to the SpectrumAM Homeowner portal for easy access. You’ll now find important resources such as budgets, audits, reserve studies, and meeting minutes in one convenient location.

We want to extend our thanks to the onsite staff and the Communications Committee for their hard work, and we truly appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the site.

Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of our wonderful community!

Submitted by: Maria - VWOA Community Manager

To participate: 

• Assessments must be current
• Resident RFID card required
• 1-vehicle load per household
• Must be able to dispose of your trash into the dumpsters

(if assistance is needed, please plan accordingly)

Restricted items: 

• Brush
• Paints
• Herbicides
• Chemicals
• Oils
• Batteries
• Antifreeze
• Gas Cylinders
• Refrigerators
• Freon
• Tires
• Used Oil Filters
• Grease & Grit Trap Waste
• Gasoline
• All Liquids
• Any items containing Hazardous Materials 

Need to Know's: 

• Don't load Waste Material above the top lip of the container
• No Waste Materials hanging over the sides
• Containers will not be hauled if it cannot be properly tarped and/or is overloaded with weight or volume

EVENT WILL BE HELD AT THE SPORTS PARK OVERFLOW PARKING LOT.

ENTRY MUST BE MADE FROM THE WEST SIDE OF MILITARY DR. ONLY.

Submitted by: Maria - VWOA Community Manager

BOARD CANDIDATE - ELAINE MAURER

My name is Elaine Maurer. I have been a resident of the Villages of Westcreek for more than 25 years. My husband John and I have one son and two beautiful granddaughters that also call Westcreek their home.

I retired from Northside ISD where I was a campus Office Manager & Bookkeeper at one of the elementary schools in our community. Through the years, I’ve volunteered on several committees including the Nominating Committee, Finance Committee, Communications Committee, and Chair of the Architectural Review Committee. In my 4 years on the Board, I’ve been the Secretary, Vice President and currently I hold the position of President.

Since being elected I’ve opened lines of communication between our community and the Sheriff’s Office and the County Commissioner’s Office. Thanks to this improvement in communication, we have seen increased patrols, and a decrease in porch pirate theft, we have also worked closely with the Bexar County SCORE unit in breaking up some very large homeless camps within our area, and we now have a direct contact to report recordings of gun shots heard within the community, so they can continue to investigate and apprehend those committing these crimes.

Over the past year I have been working alongside several communities and communicating with Congressman Joaquin Castro’s office to stop USPS mailbox theft & get improvements to the process to obtain held mail. The theft issue is plaguing our city and I won’t stop until we have some sort of plan for a resolution! I have also pushed & led the charge for the purchase & installation of several new mailboxes in the community of which 4 clusters have already been completed and there are more boxes ordered to continue this process in phases! I have been in contact with the DA's office in regard to prosecuting the thieves that have been caught to date since they’ve committed a crime of theft to community property.

Earlier this year I was instrumental in setting up the meeting with Public Works regarding the Military Dr. construction project. This meeting allowed for your voice to be heard, by county leaders. So far in 2025, I have asked that we invite Sheriff Salazar & Congressman Castro to our annual meeting so they can hear directly from homeowners and so you can hear what’s being done to mitigate mailbox theft, on all fronts! I’ve also asked for the Site Manager from Public Works to attend our meeting so that again you all can hear directly from them regarding the road construction and other utility projects impacting our community. 

This past year, I assisted in the renegotiation of our Spectrum contract, which lowered our monthly fees and allowed us to bring Spectrum employees on as Westcreek employees and bring more control back to the community, while allowing for Spectrum to continue to manage our financial accounting processes. 

This is the best neighborhood family in San Antonio and as we have grown through the years, in many ways we’ve become disconnected from one another! If elected I will be making it a priority to have our big family return to the roots of a smaller more connected community. I will do this in a variety of ways and will be enlisting your help to make this happen, because without each of you, it just can’t! I humbly ask you to please give me your vote again this April and allow me to continue to serve this wonderful community. I promise to continue to be open, honest, and to let your voice be heard! I will continue my commitment to community safety, beautification & overall improvement, while also continuing to prioritize open communication, and fiscal responsibility! I am proud to call you my neighbors and Westcreek my home! 

BOARD CANDIDATE - LYNETTE BRADLEY

I would love to be considered for the opportunity to become a Board member. I have lived in the community for 17 years after finally finding my dream home. My first home was close by, and I would often drive into the Villages of Westcreek with a sparkle in my eye, saying to myself, someday I will live here. I have always loved the way the neighborhood looked, so well maintained and uniformed. The homes were all so beautiful with well-loved lawns and exteriors. This is where I wanted to be, this is what I wanted to be a part of. It took a few years, but I finally got here! I live in the Estates with my husband and our son who graduated from Brennan. We also have 2 older daughters, a pharmacist and a teacher. And we have 2 grandchildren. One attends Brennan and the other Luna.

As a family, we volunteer for Elf Louise each year, with the exception of COVID impacted years. It’s our family tradition. I have worked for many great organizations: Chase, Citibank and now have been at USAA for almost 16 years. I have held individual contributor roles as well as leadership roles. This has afforded me a wealth of business, organizational and analytical experience which can be applied to areas outside of work and into my everyday life. Several years ago I volunteered to be an alternate member of the ARC (Architectural Review Committee) and was quickly moved to regular member and then Chair. I enjoy reviewing the PIAs (Property Improvement Applications) that are submitted and to be part of the continued maintenance and beautification of this wonderful neighborhood.

As well as being on the ARC, I was also a pioneer member of the Communications Committee and helped bring the Villages of Westcreek to the digital age by creating their its Facebook presence. Last year I was a member of the Nomination Committee helping to ensure the election for the new Board members was run seamlessly. As a community member, I asked the Board to extend the decorating days for Halloween to match the winter Holidays and also to have a Halloween decorating contest similar to the Christmas contest. As I drove around the community, I could see how much residents enjoyed decorating for Halloween. This was a way to recognize and include them! It was approved and implemented this past year. This had minimal impact to expenses but brought the community excitement.

This is an example of how your voice can be heard. I encourage each of you to be forthcoming with suggestions, concerns, or ideas. While they may not all be feasible, it doesn’t hurt to try.

Thank you, Lynette

DATA STREAM FACILITY

Hey neighbors, if you’re wondering about what the building going up on Military Drive by Walgreens is…  It’s a Data Center…  And if you’re wondering what a data center does…

A data center is a specialized facility that houses a collection of computer, storage, and networking equipment. It is designed to provide a centralized location for organizations to store, process, and manage their data and applications. Data centers are essential for businesses of all sizes, as they provide the infrastructure needed to support a wide range of IT operations.

Key Functions of a Data Center:

• Data Storage: Data centers provide a secure and reliable environment for storing vast amounts of data. This includes databases, files, and other critical information.
• Data Processing: Data centers house powerful servers that process data and run applications. This enables organizations to perform complex calculations, analyze data, and support their business operations.
• Networking: Data centers provide the necessary infrastructure for connecting to the internet and other networks. This allows organizations to communicate with customers, partners, and employees around the world.
• Disaster Recovery: Data centers are designed with redundancy and backup systems to ensure business continuity in the event of a disaster. This includes power backups, cooling systems, and data replication.
• Security: Data centers implement robust security measures to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and cyber threats. This includes physical security, network security, and data encryption.

Importance of Data Centers:

Data centers are critical for businesses because they:

• Support Daily Operations: They provide the infrastructure needed to run essential business applications and services.
• Ensure Data Availability and Reliability: They ensure that data is accessible when needed and protected from loss or corruption.
• Facilitate Cloud Services: They form the backbone of cloud computing, enabling organizations to access virtualized resources.
• Provide a Secure Environment: They offer a secure environment for storing and processing sensitive data.

You can learn more about this Data Center by Clicking Here!

Next month we will discuss the pros and cons of Data Centers.

Submitted by: Coral Fathy - VWOA Communications Committee Member

COMFORT, TEXAS

Comfort is a charming little town located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some much-needed relaxation. There are plenty of fun things to do, whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just some good old-fashioned fun.

The Town of Comfort is along I-10 about 45 minutes north of Villages of Westcreek. It was established in 1854 and is named after the German word for “Comfortable” due to the warm and hospitable nature of the early settlers. Many residents today are descendants of those same Germans.



One of the top things to do in Comfort is to explore the town's many antique shops and boutiques. You'll find a wide variety of unique and interesting items, from vintage clothing and jewelry to antique furniture and home decor. Coming up on March 8 (10:00 AM-5:00 PM) is the semi-annual Town-Wide Sidewalk Sale. Stroll through and discover deals and savings from your favorite local merchants.

If you're looking for outdoor adventures, Comfort has plenty to offer. It’s surrounded by rolling hills, clear rivers, and beautiful forests, making it the perfect place for hiking, fishing, and camping. There are also several nearby state parks (James Kiehl River Bend Park and Joshua Springs Park and Preserve) that offer even more opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Finally, Comfort is home to several annual events and festivals including the Comfort Village Fall Antique Show, the Independence Day Celebration and Parade, and the Christmas in Comfort Celebration.

Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just some good old-fashioned fun, you're sure to find it in Comfort. For more, check out https://visitcomfort.us/.

Submitted by: Michelle de Jongh - VWOA Communications Committee, Secretary

Outdoor Lighting - Why It's Important in Crime Prevention

As residents of the Villages of Westcreek may have noticed, there is 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 the exterior of their homes. 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 just a few measures to 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.

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher - VWOA Communications Committee, Vice-Chair

Late Registration for Spring Soccer – Sign Up ASAP!

Dear Westcreek Sports Families,

The Spring Soccer Season is just around the corner, and we're now entering the late registration period! Spots are limited, so don’t wait any longer—sign up today to secure your place on a team, and for your best chance of playing alongside your friends. The season features 8 exciting weeks of soccer followed by a thrilling tournament!

Sign up NOW at www.westcreeksports.com to reserve your spot before it's too late!

Volunteer Coaches Needed! We’re still looking for volunteer coaches to help lead our teams this season. Coaching is a fantastic way to get involved, and as a thank you, we offer a discount on the registration fees for your own children on your team. If you're interested in coaching or want more details, please let us know when you sign up.

Family and Resident Discounts:

• Sibling Discounts: Have more than one child playing? We’ve got a sibling discount for families with multiple sign-ups!
• Resident Discounts: Westcreek residents get even more savings! Just sign up using code WCVIP at registration!

Important Dates:

• Registration Ends:  March 21st
• First Game: April 26th
• Bad Weather Makeup:  June 21st
• Season wraps up with an exciting tournament: June 28th, 2025

Don’t let website issues hold you back! If you experience any trouble with the registration process, please reach out to us directly at activities@villagesofwestcreek.com, and we’ll assist you promptly.

Act fast—this is your chance to join in on a fantastic season of fun, competition, and community. We can’t wait to see you on the field!

www.westcreeksports.com

For more information and to register, visit our website or contact us today at activities@villagesofwestcreek.com. See you on the field! 

Submitted by: Austin - VWOA Lead Recreation Specialist

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