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

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association

Communications Committee - October 1, 2024 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.

As we approach the spookiest night of the year, it's important to remember the importance of staying safe while enjoying the festivities. Whether you're taking your little ones trick-or-treating, or heading out to a Halloween party, here are a few tips to help you stay safe and have a great time.

First and foremost, make sure you have a plan. If you're taking little ones trick-or-treating, map out your route ahead of time and make sure you stick to well-lit areas. If you're attending a party, ensure you have a designated driver or a safe way to get home.

It's also important to make sure your costume is safe. Avoid costumes that are too long or have loose fabric that can trip you up, and make sure any props you're carrying won't cause harm to yourself or others.

If you're handing out candy, ensure your porch is well-lit and free of any obstacles. You can also consider offering non-food treats for children with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Above all, remember to have fun and be respectful of others. Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but it's important to be mindful of those around you and always to put safety first.

Wishing you all a happy and safe Halloween!

Submitted by: Maria Robinson - VWOA Community Manager

The Teal Pumpkin Project provides a safe and inclusive Halloween for children with food allergies. Homeowners who participate place a teal pumpkin outside to indicate they have non-food treats available.

To get involved, paint a pumpkin teal and download a free sign from the Food Allery Research & Education (FARE) website.

Additionally, consider handing out candy free of common allergens and non-food items to promote a healthier Halloween. Click here for a list of ideas for non-food alternatives. The project promotes inclusivity and safety for all children.

Submitted by: Maria Robinson - VWOA Community Manager

November Communications Committee Meeting

This meeting will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, November 4, 2024, in the VWOA Conference room. We will send the official announcement and the agenda for the November Communications Committee meeting via the "What's the Buzz" newsletter before the meeting. Stay tuned for important updates and details!

Submitted by: Francis Lomax - VWOA Communications Committee Chairman

ReflectiReflections on the Power of Positive

ATTENTION ALL RESIDENTS OF THE GARDENS

The VWOA will be conducting street sweeping on October 2, 2024. Please be aware that the contractor will only perform this activity on the streets in the Gardens, which are the only streets in our community owned by the VWOA.

If you are a resident of the Gardens, please park all vehicles in your garage or driveway to ensure that the contractor can sweep the streets without any obstacles.

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our neighborhood clean and well-maintained.

Submitted by: Melissa - VWOA Assistant Community Manager

VWOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE SESSION OUTCOMES AND DISCUSSIONS

The VWOA Board of Directors has several important announcements that will impact the community. Here are the key updates from the Board:

Standards Violations and Past Due Accounts

• The Board reported two standards violations and eight past-due accounts were sent to the attorney for further action. This indicates the Board's commitment to upholding community standards and ensuring all residents comply with the established guidelines.

Website Update

• The Board is exploring plans to revamp the community website to provide residents with an easier navigation platform. Several site demonstrations will be sent to the Communications Committee for review to consolidate various features currently provided by different vendors. This initiative is expected to streamline operations and potentially save costs in the long run.

Sponsorship for Movie Nights

• Merit Landscaping has generously agreed to sponsor all movie nights for Villages of Westcreek residents in 2025. This sponsorship is a positive development that will bring back community events and enhance the overall resident experience.

Important Date Change for Open Board Meeting

• The next open board meeting has been changed to Thursday, 10/10/24, at 6:30 PM. Furthermore, the meeting will be held via Zoom only, reflecting the Board's adaptability to modern communication methods. 

These announcements demonstrate the Board's proactive approach to addressing community issues, improving resident experience, and ensuring effective communication. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for the upcoming open board meeting and to stay updated on further developments.

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - President, VWOA Board of Directors

Congressional Representative Joaquin Castro Urges Prompt Action from US Postmaster General Regarding Cluster Mailbox Issues

In response to numerous complaints from constituents in the Villages of Westcreek and other communities in San Antonio regarding cluster mailboxes, Representative Joaquin Castro, along with four other Congressmen, have sent a letter to the Honorable Louis DeJoy, Postmaster General of the United States Postal Service (USPS).

The letter expresses concerns about USPS practices that have damaged public faith in USPS reliability. For over a year, thousands of constituents have not had functional mailboxes after USPS suddenly abandoned a longstanding practice of maintaining and replacing their community cluster boxes for centralized mail delivery.

The letter includes a non-exhaustive list of neighborhoods in the district that have been without functional mailboxes for many months. It urges the USPS to promptly replace these cluster boxes and ensure Americans can count on the nation's mail system again.

Furthermore, the letter highlights the USPS's inconsistent policy application. While the USPS has provided new cluster boxes to certain neighborhoods after continued pressure from residents and local news stations, many other neighborhoods still lack serviceable mailboxes. This inconsistent action undermines the public's trust in a vital government service.

The letter also addresses the USPS's shift in responsibility for maintaining cluster boxes to homeowners' associations (HOAs) and neighborhoods, leaving neighborhoods scrambling to raise thousands of dollars to replace them. The USPS's action is described as poor practice and governance, and Representative Castro urges the USPS to work with the listed neighborhoods to install new and reliable cluster boxes.

The constituents affected by this issue, including seniors and people with disabilities, are now forced to make inconvenient and lengthy trips to retrieve essential mail such as Social Security checks and medications from their local post office.

Representative Castro's letter to Postmaster General DeJoy emphasizes the importance of prompt attention to this matter and urges the USPS to address the cluster mailbox issues in the affected communities.

Residents who are experiencing mail delivery issues are encouraged to contact his office at 210-348-8216.

CLICK HERE to read Representative Castro's letter!

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - President, VWOA Board of Directors

THE GENERAL ELECTION

The upcoming General Election, scheduled for November 5, 2024, is approaching. 

The Early Vote Period will run from Monday, October 21, 2024, through Friday, November 1, 2024, for those eager to cast their votes ahead of time. This extended time frame allows flexibility in ensuring that every eligible voter can participate in the electoral process.

On Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the polls will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM, providing ample time for residents to make their voices heard and exercise their right to vote.

Let's come out fully and participate in this crucial democratic process. Every vote counts, so be sure to mark these important dates on your calendar and make your voice heard in the upcoming General, Special, and Charter Elections.

CLICK HERE for more detailed information about this upcoming election, such as:

• Early Voting
• View Sample Generic Ballot
• Voter Registration Check
• Voting Center Locations
• Voting by Mail

POLITICAL SIGNS

Residents are reminded that signs expressing support for individual political candidates, parties, local bond issues, or referendums may be placed in a private front yard no sooner than August 7, 2024, for the November 5, 2024 Election. Unless the candidate is involved in a runoff election, these signs must be removed by November 15, 2024. 

It is important to remember that such political signs should be at most five (5') square feet and must be professionally produced. Homemade signs are not permitted. The limit for political signs is one (1) per candidate or ballot item per lot. 

Lastly, the ARC may approve banners on a case-by-case basis. Remember to respect our neighbors whose political leanings may differ from our own.

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - President, VWOA Board of Directors

Porch pirate season is underway, and it's important to take steps to protect your packages from theft. There are several ways to avoid porch pirates, including having your package rerouted to only be delivered when you're there, sending it to a neighbor who is home, changing your delivery for signatures only, or sending it to your workplace.

One effective method is to get permission to ship all your packages to your work address. This way, they won't be left unguarded at your doorstep for hours, and anyone walking by could snatch them. If this option works for you, encourage friends and family members to ship packages to your work address as well.

Another option is to ask a trusted friend or neighbor to receive your packages for you. If they are retired or work from home, they may be happy to let you have packages delivered to them for safekeeping.

If neither of those options works, consider using a service that lets you arrange for a package to be held at a warehouse until you arrive home. You can then arrange delivery during evening hours that better suit your schedule.

Finally, setting up a live-recording video camera aimed at your porch can help you spot a theft as it happens and alert law enforcement officials. The camera may also provide a video to help identify the thieves.

Remember, it's important to take steps to protect your packages from porch pirates. Don't let your packages fall into the wrong hands—take action today to keep them safe and secure.

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - President, VWOA Board of Directors

Texans are preparing to observe Go Purple Day on Thursday, October 17th. This day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about domestic violence by wearing purple. October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which offers a crucial time to educate and inform the public about the devastating effects of domestic violence.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, it is crucial to seek help and support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential assistance 24/7/365. You can call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 911 for immediate help.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month allows us to unite as a community to support victims, raise awareness, and advocate for change. If you want to learn more about what Bexar County is doing to combat domestic violence and access additional resources, visit the Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence website at ccdv.org.

Remember, we all have a role to play in ending domestic violence, and by working together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those impacted by this issue.

Don't forget to wear purple on Go Purple Day to support this critical cause.

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - President, VWOA Board of Directors

As we approach the holiday season, it's important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding the display of decorations in our community. The newly revised Standards state that holiday decorations may be displayed on the premises without ARC approval. However, specific guidelines must be followed regarding when and how long decorations can be displayed.

HOLIDAY DECORATING SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

Halloween

• Decorations Up - September 21, 2024
• Decorations Down - November 15, 2024

Thanksgiving

• Decorations Up - October 19, 2024
• Decorations Down - December 13, 2024

Christmas

• Decorations Up - November 15, 2024
• Decorations Down - January 16, 2025

New Year's

• Decorations Up - November 22, 2024
• Decorations Down - January 16, 2025

Standards Reference: Article 6.7

For specific questions about the Standards, you can contact the Standards Manager at standards@villagesofwestcreek.com.  

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher - VWOA Architectural Review Committee, Chair

KERRVILLE

Kerrville is nestled on the banks of the Guadalupe River in the Hill Country, just under 100 miles from Villages of Westcreek. Founded in 1889, this vibrant community is home to a multitude of popular events and attractions including the Official Texas State Arts and Crafts Fair, Kerrville Folk Festival, Museum of Western Art, James Avery Headquarters, and Schreiner University.

One of the top things to do in Kerrville is to explore the great outdoors. The town is surrounded by beautiful parks and natural areas, making it the perfect place to hike, bike, or stroll. Check out parks such as Kerrville-Schreiner Park, Louise Hays Park and Flat Rock Park that line the Guadalupe River which runs directly through the city. There are 3 distinguished golf courses. The Kerrville River Trail is a particularly popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering about 6 miles of 10-feet-wide scenic paths along the Guadalupe River. Boat and bicycle rentals are available at Louise Hays Park and Kerrville-Schreiner Park during peak seasons. https://tx-kerrville3.civicplus.com/1341/River-Trail

Riverside Nature Center is free to visit and tour. It features a butterfly garden, meadow with wildflowers and native grasses, native healing garden, and more. The website has a 3-D virtual tour if you want to check it out. https://riversidenaturecenter.org/

For a more relaxing day, Kerrville offers a great selection of wineries and breweries. The Grape Juice Winery is a popular spot for wine tastings and live music, while the Pint & Plow Brewing Company offers a great selection of craft beers and tasty pub fare.

Kerrville offers plenty of history and culture as well. The Museum of Western Art (virtual tour is available www.museumofwesternart.com) is a must-visit for anyone interested in cowboy culture and art, while the Kerr Arts & Cultural Center hosts a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year. Arcadia Live is an Historic theatre located in Downtown Kerrville that showcases live music and entertainment, community events and private venue rentals. The city also has several outdoor amphitheaters.

The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden is a beautiful free 24.5-acre garden open 365 day a year (except in inclement weather). In addition to the sculptures, there are many interesting features designed to help people connect with God. It is wheelchair accessible. Donations are welcome. https://thecomingkingfoundation.org/

Perhaps one of the most unusual things to see in Kerrville is Stonehenge II. Created as an art project by the late Al Shepperd, a Hill Country Arts Foundation patron, and his neighbor Doug Hill more than 20 years ago on Shepperd’s land in nearby Hunt. It took nine months to build and is 90 percent the height and 60 percent the width as the original Stonehenge in England. Shepperd also added two 13-foot Easter Island head replicas for fun. After Shepperd’s death, the megalithic circle along with its Easter Island replicas were relocated stone-by-stone to their final resting place on the campus of the Hill Country Arts Foundation. www.hcaf.com/stonehenge-ii

To learn more about this fascinating city less than a 2-hour drive away, visit www.kerrvilletx.gov.

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

It’s that time of year, and actually getting to the late end of the season, so get busy and get composting and mulching to look forward to a healthy spring garden. 

COMPOSTING 

If you haven’t begun to compost, now is the perfect time, but any time is a perfect time. This process reduces waste and can improve the health of your garden by breaking down organic material, such as food scraps and yard waste.  

Simply locate a flat, shaded, well-drained area in your yard. For a compost bin, you can buy a pre-made bin or build your own. For me, I simply use a space on the ground surrounded by garden edging, as I frequently take from my compost pile and spread it around the yard to nourish various plants.  

A most beneficial pile consists of brown and green materials. The green includes fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings. The brown may include leaves, straw, even shredded paper. A good ratio is about three parts brown to one part green if you are counting. 

Keeping the compost moist, adding a compost activator containing a beneficial bacteria to break down the material more quickly, and aerating by turning the pile from time to time will ensure that you have a nutrient-rich soil. Within a few months, you should have a rich, dark compost ready to use in our garden. 

MULCHING 

Mulching contributes to a low-maintenance landscape, saves water and suppresses weeds. Topping the soil with mulch serves that purpose.   

Mulch can be easily purchased with colors to match a color scheme, but master gardeners suggest natural colors for blending and health of plants.   So what is mulch? From wood chips, dry leaves, twigs, and straw, mulch that is brown is primarily carboniferous, nature’s sponge that holds moisture to feed and grow roots of all plants. Mulching warms the soil in the winter and cools it in the summer, a natural process in a forest when twigs and leaves constantly shower the forest floor, the process we are simply recreating in our own yards. 

Rocks are a trendy replacement for mulch and can look attractive, but do not offer the benefits of plant mulch. Plant mulching is a great way to recycle organic matter, adding nutrients to soil and fostering growth and development of soil microbial activity. 

Mulch is often free for the taking where areas of land are being cleared, Don’t hesitate to ask as this helps all concerned. And don’t hesitate to use the leaves you rake up from your yard. For winter and summer months, mulching is your all-around best bet for a healthy garden. 

Submitted by: Barbara Lee - VWOA Communications Committee, Member

We are happy to announce the return of our 2025 Winter Flag Football League. Registration is open now! Coaches, Siblings, and Resident discounts are now available, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to use our all-new discount codes!

Registration Dates And Fees:

• Early Bird - October 1, 2024 Through October 13, 2024
• $80.00 per child
• Regular - October 14, 2024 Through November 17, 2024
• $90.00 per child
• Late - November 18, 2024 Through November 30, 2024
• $105.00 per child

CLICK HERE for details!

Submitted by: Austin - VWOA Lead Parks & Recreation Specialist

JOIN OUR HALLOWEEN DECORATING CONTEST FOR THE SPOOKY SEASON!

Winners will be selected by your neighbors and residents of Villages of Westcreek!

Submit your pictures to the front office by Friday, October 18th. On Monday, October 21st, a constant contact message will be sent out with pictures of the participating homes for voting. Voting will end on Thursday, October 24th. Winners will be announced on Friday, October 25th.

Prizes - 1st place $75.00 | 2nd place - $50.00 | 3rd place $25.00

Register with the front office!

Email: frontoffice@villagesofwestcreek.com or call 210-679-8761.

Submitted by: Ashley - Resident Specialist

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