Published weekly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association's
Communications Committee - February 6, 2017 Edition!

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."

Desmond Tutu
WESTCREEK BRAGGIN' RIGHTS 

"The Oaks" was the first village built in the "Villages of Westcreek" in 1987.  The first home was built by "Gemcraft Homes" and sold to  Robert William Downing and Barbara J. Downing on April 24, 1987.  This home, located at 11854 James Vinson, not only holds the "braggin' rights" for being the "first home sold," but also that it was built on land that was granted to "David (Davy) Crockett Heirs."  The current owner, Michael R. Perez, bought the house on September 28, 2009.

In 1987, new home prices for a "Gemcraft Home" in "The Oaks" sold anywhere from $73,990 to $90,990.  There were 7 different models with 4 elevations per model.  All models were 100% brick on the first level.  In 2017, most of these homes have doubled in value from their original price!

Now, being the first home sold in Westcreek in 1987 does not mean that this home is the oldest home.  The home that holds that distinction was built back in the 1960's.  The home is located at 11531 Creek Bow in "The Summit ."  A painting of this home can be found in the Community Center lobby, over the water fountain.

Next week, we will share with you some of our research findings about this particular homestead and still unanswered questions!
   
VWOA  Historical Research Sub-committee Meeting 
      
Date:  Monday, February 13, 2017
Time:  6:00 P.M.
Where:  Community Center Conference Room
 
This is an open meeting!  All are Welcome! 
WHAT IS THE FORCED MOW POLICY?

The "Forced Mow" policy applies to the front and side yards (in front of the fence) and includes mowing, edging and blowing service.  The homeowner will be charged $75.00.

All Homeowners/Tenants are responsible for maintaining the property and complying with terms and conditions in accordance with the CC&Rs and the Standards. Specifically, it is your responsibility to make sure your turf/lawn areas do not exceed 5 inches in height.   In addition, turf and other ground cover needs to be edged to prevent it from growing over sidewalks, walkways, driveways, around trees, shrubs, flower beds and around the house foundation.  Homeowners/Tenants are also responsible for removing and discouraging the growth of weeds on the entire premises, including  flowerbeds and xeriscaped areas, plus the seams between the driveway, walkways, sidewalks, curb and street.

The Standards Department's goal is to inspect each property at least once every two weeks for the purpose of ensuring that all properties are well maintained in accordance with the provisions outlined in the CC&Rs and Standards.   

So what happens when a Homeowner/Tenant fails to comply with the Standards in regard to lawn maintenance?  On the first reported/sighted violation that the lawn needs to be mowed, a "Courtesy Notice" will be issued and the homeowner will have 10 days to correct the deficiency.

After the 10 day period, if the violation has not been corrected/addressed, the homeowner will be sent a "Notice of Forced Mow" and given another 1 0 days to correct/address the violation. 

If, after the "Notice of Forced Mow" period of 10 days, the homeowner again fails to correct the violation, and/or a request for an extension has not been requested and approved, the VWOA will schedule a "Forced Mow," and a $75 fine will be charged to the homeowner's account.  The Association will mow, edge and blow the front and side yards of the dwelling.  The "Forced Mow" policy does not apply to areas behind the fence line.

Click here to review the Forced Mow/Maintenance Policy!

Mike Hunsucker
Community Manager
DONATION REQUEST

At the last Board of Directors Meeting, a homeowner recommended that we start a "Community Book Exchange" at the Community Center.  Residents will be able to  donate books and pick up books at the exchange.

We have identified a space in the lobby of the Community Center for the exchange.  We are asking if anyone would be willing to donate a book case that is no wider than 8'  and no taller than 4' to 5'.

We will let you know when the "Community Book Exchange" is up and running!
If you're planning on having a Yard Sale this weekend, please be sure to get your permit from the VWOA Office by Thursday, February 9, 2017

Your event will be listed on the Community Yard Sale Listings page of our website, on Friday, February 10, 2017.

Yard Sale this Saturday, February 11, 2017 (7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.)
The Board of Directors recently approved a recommendation from the Communications Committee to offer the residents a forum to express their personal opinions on a wide variety of issues relating to the community.  Opinions from the community will be published under the column called "My Point of View" in our weekly publication of "This Week in Westcreek."

The opinions expressed in "My Point of View" are those solely of the author and not necessarily those of the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association.

The Association reserves the right to refuse publication of any articles that are offensive and/or deemed as a personal attack on any individual, group or organization.  Submitted articles should have a Westcreek issue focus; for example: speed bumps, lighting, park activities, raising assessments, or budget issues. Some examples of inappropriate articles are those expressing religious, political, or social views.  

Opposing "Points of View" are welcome!  Contact the Chair of the Communications Committee if you wish to submit your Op-ed. 
 
Point of Contact:  Bill Fenstermacher, Chair of the Communications Committee
WE NEED YOUR FEEDBACK

On February 8, 2017, the "Communications Committee" will be publishing a survey regarding your satisfaction with the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association website.  The purpose of the survey is to collect baseline data on resident satisfaction with the website and to identify opportunities for improvement. 

The survey will be sent in a separate email titled "VWOA WEBSITE SURVEY," in addition to being published on the website. 

Survey Closes on March 15, 2017!

Another survey will be conducted in several months to evaluate subscriber satisfaction with our "This Week in Westcreek" publication.

We respectfully request that you take the time to respond to the survey.

Bill Fenstermacher, Chair of the Communications Committee
"Texas Transportation Code § 545.302.2" states that it is illegal to block a sidewalk with a vehicle.  If a neighbor complains, a $150.00 parking citation can be issued by the Bexar County Sheriff's Department.

Residents should be able to park two vehicles in their garage, two more in a driveway and at least one more in front of their house. With five parking places per household, it is reasonable to expect people not to block sidewalks.

Let's do our part in keeping our sidewalks safe and accessible!

Click here for Ticket Fine Schedule!

TXDot has advised the VWOA Office that at this time they have no road closures scheduled for 1604 and Military Drive West or Westcreek Oaks.

TXDot will make the notices available every Friday, if there are any to be announced.  If, however,road closures are occurring without notice on the website, then we will need to alert TXDot ASAP.
 
You can keep informed of the road closures on the following website: http://txdotsanantonio.blogspot.com/
 
The information pertinent to our area will be identified as Northwest San Antonio.   
 
Sylvia Mennel
Assistant Community Manager

LIGHTS!  CAMERA!  ACTION!

The "VWOA Historical Research Sub-committee" is seeking the volunteer services of a "Videographer/Movie Producer" who can create a final production product that will include video clips, still photos and audio recordings in celebration of the "30th Anniversary" celebration of the Villages of Westcreek.

Point of Contact
This is an awesome volunteer opportunity to do something to preserve our history for future residents.

CHALLENGER SPORTS' BRITISH SOCCER CAMP
The Villages of Westcreek Soccer League is excited to announce a new partnership with Challenger Sports.

Challenger Sports' British Soccer Camp is the most popular soccer camp in the country based upon one of the most innovative approaches to coaching youth soccer in the US and Canada.

Their experienced International staff study the game at all levels and will help players improve their core techniques and become more confident on the ball.
With programs for each age, the curriculum's includes a variety of foot skills, technical drills, tactical practices, freestyle soccer, small-sided gam es and coached scrimmages.

World Cup style games are held each day, where campers compete for their adopted country.  In addition, they are encouraged to learn about different customs and cultures, the Challenger Sports core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, sportsmanship and leadership.
 
Click here for more information about the program being offered by the professionals of Challenger Sports! 

Click here to view and print flyer! 
KIDS CREATIVE DANCE CLASS - AGES 3 - 5

Creative Dance Class is for children ages 3-5 and  provides a fun way to learn the foundation of dance, music, timing and fun choreographies.  The class teaches focus, and coordination, while combining movements to music that is fun for all.
  • Rates:  $12 per class
  • Full Session Rate:  $169 ending in Spring Showcase
  • Non Westcreek Residents add 10%
For more information call 210-201-2873 or visit www.smashdance.net or
  Click here for flyer!  Bring the flyer for your FREE CLASS!

MIXXEDFIT - People Inspired Dance Fitness Program

MixxedFit is a people inspired dance fitness program that is a mix of explosive dancing and boot camp toning.  Everything about our dance fitness program can be described as explosive - all of our movements are always big, exaggerated, full-out, and our very best.  ALL Levels Welcomed!

This class meets every Monday at 7:00 P.M. till 7:45 P.M., in the Community Center Hall.  First Class is FREE!

Rates:  $8 per class or $25 per month

Click here for more information!
 
This weekend around the house, pressure wash mildew, mold and stains from sidewalks, walkways, patios, and driveways!

Keep Westcreek Beautiful!
Crime Report
No crime incidents reported to the VWOA Office last week!
 
Please remember to be observant in your neighborhood.  
  • Report any suspicious activities or persons to the Bexar County Sheriff's Office at 210-335-6000.
  • If you see graffiti or vandalism in the Villages of Westcreek, please report it to the office at 210-679-8761
Most of the time criminals will only act if they have easy access to stealing and little risk of being caught. You can change this equation with some common sense behaviors and habits:
  • Always keep the zippers and pockets of your purse, shoulder back, backpack, etc. closed.
  • Keep your wallet in the inside pocket of your coat, or the front pocket of your trousers.
  • Never set your items down unattended, even for a moment.
  • Always look at the people around you.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • If something doesn't look right or feel right in a situation, leave.
MISSION TRAIL - FREE ADMISSION

The Mission Trail is a great walking, biking or driving experience. Explore centuries of the history and culture when you visit the five missions of San Antonio: Mission San Antonio de Valero or more commonly known as the Alamo, Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan Capistrano and Mission San Francisco de la Espada.

There is no admission fee at any of the missions, however, donations are accepted.


The San Antonio Mission Trail, which begins at the Alamo, winds southward along a nine-mile stretch of the San Antonio River.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
2202 Roosevelt Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78210
(210) 534-8833     Visit Website



Westcreek resident Michelle de Jongh prepares a weekly list of "Things to do in San Antonio." 

To subscribe, send your email address to mmsdej@yahoo.com
 
  Click here to download and print!
PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO SIDEWALKS AND DRIVEWAY APRONS
  • It is unlawful to allow any object including trash/recyclable containers, refuse, motor vehicles, trailers, portable basketball goals, toys, tree limbs and other planting to interfere with the pedestrian's full access of sidewalks and driveway aprons. Soil that washes upon sidewalks requires removal as it is a safety issue for pedestrians.
Click here to view the  2016 Standards!
THE MARKET IS BACK!

The VWOA is hosting a Farmers Market from 10:00 A.M. till 3:00 P.M. every Thursday, thru November 16, 2017.

The Farmers Market now offers fresh chicken and beef for sale along with their regular offerings of fruits and vegetables.
   
The
market is located in the overflow parking lot adjacent to the Com
munity Center.  They accept WIC, Senior FMNP Vouchers and Credit Cards.

Support our Local Farmers!
 


If you try to fail, and succeed, which have you done?