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

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Communications Committee, October 1, 2025 Edition!

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With Gratitude: Shoutout to Art Jacob for his Kindness!

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for one of my wonderful neighbors, Art Jacob. He is always there to lend a helping hand, whether I'm facing car troubles or other challenges. When my car broke down, Art was quick to offer me an old pickup truck he keeps on hand for neighbors in need—such a generous gesture that speaks volumes about his character.

When my water heater started giving me trouble, I hesitated to ask for his help, knowing how kind and willing he is to get involved. But when he found out, he didn’t hesitate for a second. He said, “Let’s go get you a new one, and I’ll install it.” Even though it was an incredibly hot day, he tackled the job all on his own, showing just how much he cares.

Words can't adequately express my gratitude for his kindness. I feel so blessed to have neighbors like Art. Thank you so much, Art—you will definitely be getting your chocolate chip cookies soon! I truly cherish all my neighbors; each one of you brings joy to my life. Love to all of you, dear friends!

Submitted by: Joyce Oliver

Home Invasion: Kim Dixon to the rescue!

Neighbors taking care of neighbors is a concept I learned from an early age by my parents. Kim Dixon represents this concept. We woke up to our surprise to find a raccoon in our bedroom. Neither my husband nor I is familiar with dealing with wild animals.

I contacted multiple websites that specialize in removing wild animals. Due to the Labor Day weekend, no one was able to help. I decided to post on Nextdoor for help. Kim stepped up to help without hesitation. Neighbors helping neighbors. That embodies Kim.

Thank you for being a great neighbor and friend.

Submitted by: Lorraine Adams

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.

The VWOA Board of Directors will hold its quarterly meeting via Zoom at 6:00 PM on October 7, 2025.

• Click here to view the official meeting notification!

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

This meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in the VWOA Community Center Hall.

• Click here to view the official meeting notification!

SUGGESTION AND RECOMMENDATION COMMITTEE

This meeting will be held at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in the VWOA Community Center Hall.

• Click here to view the official meeting notification!

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!

Texans are preparing to observe Go Purple Day on Thursday, October 23rd. 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.

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 Down - November 15, 2025

Thanksgiving

• Decorations Up - October 28, 2025
• Decorations Down - December 12, 2025

Christmas

• Decorations Up - November 15, 2025
• Decorations Down - January 16, 2026

New Year's

• Decorations Up - November 22, 2025
• Decorations Down - January 16, 2026

Reference: Standards Reference: Article 6.7

If you have specific questions about the Holiday Decorations schedule, you can contact the Front Office at Frontoffice@villagesofwestcreek.com.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - PART 2

Last month we told you about many of the wonderful things to do in Austin. This month, we continue with some of the weird (and wonderfully weird) things that Austin has come to be known for.

Watch the bats. Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. From March to November, you can watch over 1.5 million bats take flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Get an incredible view from the water of Lady Bird Lake with Lone Star Riverboat or Capital Cruises. Or, try the waters yourself with Live Love Paddle or Austin Kayak Tours, which both offer nighttime bat-watching kayak excursions.

Check out the street art. Austin is full of colorful murals and street art.

Cathedral of Junk: Located at 4422 Lareina Drive. This quirky sculpture in South Austin is made entirely of recycled materials. Visitors are welcome, but must make an appointment. 512-299-7413

Malin’s Fountain in Pease Park. Danish artist, Thomas Dambo, created Malin’s Fountain, a troll sculpture in Pease Park with the help of 150 Austin-based volunteers. Malin is a female troll holding a bowl. She reminds us that we should share water and resources with the animals that live here with us. https://peasepark.org/pease-park-troll

Museum of Illusions located at 11010 Domain Dr #100, Austin https://moiaustin.com/

The Tiny Minotaur is a home-brewed immersive fantasy world, private club, live action performance space, tavern, and art space in Austin. You'll need a membership or day pass to enter the Tiny Minotaur. www.tinyminotaur.com

Sparky Park. Once a utilitarian electrical substation, this pocket park (3701 Grooms St) was overhauled by local artist Berthold Haas in 2008. Bits of glass, stone, broken dishes, shells, marbles, and other shiny bits turn the walls and pillars into a tactile art installation that you’ll want to feel as well as see.

Museum of the Weird. This quirky place is tucked inside Lucky Lizard Curious and Gifts. www.museumoftheweird.com/

Wonderspaces. An immersive and interactive fine art experience. https://austin.wonderspaces.com/

Texas Selfie Museum. https://originalselfiemuseum.com/

Kura Revolving Sushi. https://kurasushi.com/locations/austin-tx-airport-blvd

Texas Toy Museum. It’s a museum and arcade. https://austintoymuseum.org/

Hippie Hollow is known as one of the only nude beaches in Texas. https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hippie-hollow

Chicken Sh*t Bingo. Chicken sh*t bingo is one of Austin’s long-standing weird attractions. A chicken walks around on a board of numbers. If it “marks” your number, you win. You’ll find chicken sh*t bingo at the Little Longhorn Saloon. https://thelittlelonghornsaloon.com/

Many unique speakeasy joints like Garage Bar, Floppy Disk Repair Co., and Here Nor There.

Unique donut shops like Voodoo Donuts and Bougie’s Donuts.

For more information about visiting Austin, check out www.austintexas.org

THE IMPORTANCE OF ACTIVE CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT IN CRIME PREVENTION

As a resident of the Villages of Westcreek, it's important to be aware of the impact of crime in our community. When community members are not actively engaged in crime prevention, it can lead to increased crime rates, decreased property values, and a decline in the overall quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood.

We can work together to create a safer and more secure community by actively participating in crime prevention. This means being vigilant of suspicious activity, reporting crimes or suspicious behavior to the authorities, and securing our homes and property. It's essential to recognize that crime prevention is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement, but rather a shared responsibility that we must all take seriously.

When we work together to prevent crime, we not only make our community safer but also create a sense of unity and solidarity within our neighborhood. By demonstrating our commitment to the well-being of our community, we can deter criminals and make the Villages of Westcreek a less attractive target for criminal activity.

So, let's all do our part to prevent crime in our community. Being proactive and engaged can create a stronger and more secure neighborhood for ourselves and our families. Consider volunteering for the Cellular on Patrol Program or organizing a Neighborhood Watch Program. Click here to learn more about these programs!

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