Fire Inspector: Tim Zelenak Ext. 2990 | tzelenak@windcrest-tx.gov
Police Department: Chief Jim Cole Ext. 2130 | jcole@windcrest-tx.gov
Code Enforcement | Animal Control 210-655-2666
City Website: www.windcrest-tx.gov
Windcrest Economic Development Corporation
Director: Mario Hernandez
210-469-6802 | marioh@satx.rr.com
Coordinator: Karen K. Nelson
210-469-6800 | knelson@windcrest-tx.gov
Bexar County Water District #10
General Manager: David Wallace
210-655-2888 | gmbcwcid10@gmail.com
Mon – Thu 8 AM – 4 PM | Fri 8 AM – 3 PM
Water Emergencies: 210-422-4159
24-Hour Police Non-Emergency 210-655-2666
ALL EMERGENCIES FIRE – EMS
Mayor’s Message Dan Reese
A Season of Holidays. Halloween has become quite an event with some very awesome displays! In November, we will celebrate Veteran’s Day on November 11th. This was originally called Armistice Day and was changed to Veteran’s Day in 1954 by President Eisenhower in honor of those who served and died in all wars. We will, of course, celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 28th. I hope you all have plenty to be thankful for and are able to spend some time with those you love.
Newsletter Challenges. Even with the advanced technology of phones, computers and digital signs, we have found that many of our citizens count on and use the Newsletter. I don’t have to tell most of you that there have been some errors in the past, mostly dates and typos. But the printed version of the Newsletter delivered the first week in October was unacceptable. The digital version of the newsletter is correct and available online. The staff checked the proofs and solicited outside help to verify the accuracy. Unfortunately, there was a major issue in the printing. Fortunately, the printing company took full responsibility for the error and printed a four-page addendum (at their expense) to the newsletter that covered the articles that were left out of the original printing.
Windcrest Elections. Election Day is November 5th. It has been a long election season! The National elections bring added attention to any election, but especially when we elect a President. We are electing three members to our City Council. The number of candidates running this year is more than I can ever remember. I thank all of the candidates for their willingness to serve and look forward to working with you in keeping Windcrest a great place to live! The closest polling place will be at our own Takas Park Civic Center at 9610 Jim Seal Drive.
Light Up is Coming! Seems early for “Light Up”, but we actually have two events in November and our signature “Light Up” Kick-Off Celebration is the first week in December. This year’s theme is “Blue Sapphire” in recognition of the City’s 65th Anniversary! Here are the November events:
November 13th, 6:00 PM, Dedication Tree Lighting (Jim Seal and Crestway)
November 20th, 6:00 PM, Candy Cane Lane Lighting (Windway Dr at Patriot).
Be part of Light Up! As you might know, Windcrest Light Up is the Signature event for our city. I’ve met people who come from all over the state to “see the lights”. To my knowledge, we are the largest free Christmas lights display in the area. We have received National recognition by having one of our homes win a nationwide contest on ABC’s “Great Christmas Light Fight”! I am hopeful that all of Windcrest will be able to participate in some way by lighting up their homes. You don’t have to go to the extremes you might see in the neighborhoods, but any light will be helpful. We even have a “Share the Lights” project that takes in donated light strings from October 15th – November 20th. Then, the donated lights will be available for pickup on two Saturdays (November 23rd and 30th) in the Windcrest City Hall Parking lot from 10 am to 1 pm. Please consider helping us continue this great tradition and highlighting our “City of Lights”.
“Coffee with the Mayor” continues to be very helpful for me as well as for those who can participate. We begin at 8:30 at Las Palapas on Walzem. You are welcome to come and go as you please and have coffee on me!
Dan Reese
By Jennifer Newman, President, WEDC Board
Windcrest celebrates 65th anniversary with blue sapphire light up theme
The Windcrest Economic Development Corporation is proud to support the City of Windcrest’s annual Light Up in 2024, an event that not only highlights the city’s vibrant community spirit but also serves as a key driver for local economic growth. The WEDC will support this cherished tradition by contributing over $10,000 to tie economic development and business to Windcrest’s largest annual event. This will enhance Windcrest’s appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors, fostering increased foot traffic and business opportunities during the festive season. This year’s theme, “Blue Sapphire,” celebrating the city’s 65th anniversary, will shine a spotlight on Windcrest’s unique charm, encouraging community engagement and showcasing the city as a thriving place to live, work, and invest. This iconic event, which has become a beloved tradition for residents and visitors alike, will be a spectacular showcase of Windcrest’s civic pride and rich history. The theme, inspired by the sapphire gemstone traditionally associated with 65th anniversaries, will see homes, businesses, and city streets adorned in brilliant blue hues. This year’s Light Up promises to be an extraordinary visual experience, with participants encouraged to incorporate the theme into their decorations, creating a unified and striking display throughout the city.
As we commemorate 65 years of progress and community in Windcrest, the “Blue Sapphire” theme serves as a symbol of the city’s enduring strength, wisdom, and unity. The Windcrest Economic Development Corporation is proud to support this highly anticipated annual event, which not only brings the community together but also draws visitors from across the region, showcasing Windcrest as a dynamic and welcoming place to live, work, and play.
Code Enforcement & Compliance
By Daniel Fox, Police Code Compliance Agent
This is the season where our trees start to lose leaves again, remember to pick up the leaves as this not only makes your yard look untidy but it can also become a hazard. Unwanted critters such as garden snakes and spiders will hide under leaves piled up by the wind. The morning mist can cause the leaves to become slippery and cause you to fall. Forgotten items in your yard can also get covered up by the leaves creating yet another fall hazard.
Remember to maintain your alley ways year-round as it is a city ordinance. Please reference our city code of ordinance at www. windcrest-tx.gov/code and report any ordinance concerns to www. windcrest-tx.gov/report
Wearing the Windcrest Badge
Highlighting Badge 107
Wearing Badge 107, Adam Salinas has been with the Windcrest Police Department for 2 years. He is passionate about continuously developing his skills as an officer and protecting the people he serves. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family and going fishing. His hobbies include going to the gym and gaming.
2024 Share the Lights Project –Christmas Light Exchange
It is that time of year again to Share the Lights!
For 65 years Windcrest Residents have been decorating our homes with Christmas displays to the awe and wonder of residents and visitors from near and far. Sometimes over the years, residents have had lights that they no longer use in their displays. New residents may not have yet had the time to purchase lights to decorate their homes.
For five years Windcrest has had a project where residents can donate working Christmas lights and other residents that needed lights can pick lights up for use during Windcrest Light-Up. It was a small beginning the first year, ten residents donated lights and eight families benefited. Last year more residents donated and over twenty-five families benefited.
You do not need to give lights to get lights. The lights donated do need to be working. The lights are given ‘as is,’ and on a first come basis.
Do you have working Christmas lights in your garage or attic that you will not be using this year? Consider donating them to this year's Windcrest Share the Lights Project. Boxes will be at City Hall for your donations from Tuesday, October 15th through Wednesday, November 20th. If you have lights but need them picked up at your home, call Cindy Strzelecki at 210-812-7500.
Donated Lights will be available from 10 am – 1 pm on two Saturdays, November 23rd and the 30th in the parking lot at City Hall. This is a wonderful way to recycle working lights and have at least one set of lights on every home in Windcrest during our Light Up!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION!
Holiday Garbage/Recycle Schedule
A friendly reminder our office will be closed Thanksgiving Day. IF your regular service day is on Thursday or Friday, the makeup service days for the week of Thanksgiving are Friday or Saturday.
Your regular Thursday/Friday service pick up will resume on the week of December 2. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our Customer Service Department at 210-304-2700.
Continue the Tradition
For over six decades, the City of Windcrest has been known for its incredible sense of community and holiday spirit. Founded in 1959, Windcrest quickly established itself as a vibrant and closeknit city. One of the most cherished traditions is the annual Windcrest Light-Up, where residents decorate their homes with spectacular holiday light displays, attracting visitors from all over.
The Windcrest Light-Up began as a small, neighborly tradition, but over the years, it has grown into a citywide event, putting Windcrest on the map as a must-see destination for holiday lights. In fact, Windcrest's Light-Up displays have been featured on shows like ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Flight, drawing attention and praise from around the nation.
This year, as we celebrate the city’s 65th anniversary, the theme for Light-Up is "Blue Sapphire” in honor of the City’s 65th anniversary. The categories this year are: Best Street and/or Cul-de-sac, Best Use of Homemade Décor, Best Multimedia, Best Use of Inflatables, Religious, Best Use of Lights, Most Welcoming, Best Business, Best Use of Theme, Best in Show, and People’s Choice Award!
Join us this year as we continue this beloved tradition and light up Windcrest in celebration of our community's 65-year history. Let’s make this year’s Light-Up event a sparkling success for all!
For more details and participation information, visit www. windcrest-tx.gov/LightUp
Light Up Event
Dedication Tree Lighting Ceremony
Candy Cane Lane
Light-Up Celebration Kickoff
Bike Night
HO-HO-HO Market
When?
November 13, 6:00 PM
November 20, 6:00 PM
December 7, 5:30 PM
December 10, 6:00 PM
December 13, 6:00 PM –9:00 PM
Community First POLICE DEPARTMENT
By Jim Cole Windcrest Chief of Police
As we approach the holidays and gift buying season returns, we want to remind everyone to secure their vehicles and gifts to prevent thefts. Here are some things to consider this upcoming holiday season to help prevent becoming a victim of theft:
Theft Deterrent: If your budget allows, install cameras and motion-sensored lights where your packets are expected to be delivered. Thieves are often deterred from homes that they know are constantly being monitored. Another great way to protect your packets is by using a home package theft prevention box, many are very affordable and easy to install. Thieves are known for going after items they can easily snatch and run.
Secure Your Vehicles: When going from store to store as you shop for gifts, be sure to cover your items or put them in the trunk of your vehicle if possible. Leaving your items in plain sight where thieves can easily see can increase the probability of getting your car broken into and your valuables stolen. Remember to always lock your vehicle and check that it is locked before departing from it. Always try to park in well-lit areas and if it looks unsafe leave.
Stay Vigilant: Put your phone down and watch your surroundings. Thieves are known to go after people they think are distracted. If you see something, say something. A person walking around the parking lot, in between cars, looking through car windows could be someone looking to cause harm. Inform the store security of what you have seen or call the local police non-emergency number. You could help prevent a theft.
Our great Windcrest Police Officers patrol Windcrest 24/7 keeping an eye out for suspicious activities and protecting the great people of Windcrest and their property.
F.D.News FIRE DEPARTMENT
By Ivan Hernandez Windcrest Fire Chief
Stop, drop, and pass the rolls! Bread-y or not, Thanksgiving is here. Time to jump on the gravy train and mash some potatoes. As you create your Thanksgiving meal plan, gobble your way through the following safety tips if you are considering deep frying your turkey:
• Use the fryer outdoors and on a flat surface.
• Keep the fryer a safe distance away from trees, structures, wooden decks, and covered patios. Do not use the fryer in a garage.
• Keep the correct kind of fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water or a garden hose on a grease-related fire.
• Ensure the turkey is COMPLETELY THAWED and dry prior to placing in the fryer.
• Do not leave the fryer unattended.
• Monitor the temperature of the oil with a thermometer to prevent the oil from overheating and catching fire. If the oil begins to smoke, turn the fryer off immediately.
• Raise and lower the turkey slowly to prevent oil splatter, burns, and fire.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer, even after the turkey is finished cooking and has been removed. Oil will remain dangerously hot for hours.
• Wear protective cooking gear such as oven mitts, gloves, and safety goggles.
Safety never takes a holiday! Let’s feast without the fowl play!
CLUB
Our September meeting was pawsitively amazing! Dale Flashberg from Canine Companions introduced us to her service dog trainee, Presley, demonstrated the array of commands she’s mastered, and educated us on the significant positive impact these extraordinary dogs have in the lives of their handlers. Thank you Dale & Presley!
We’d love to have you join us at the Windcrest Civic Center on November 20th at 10am for a presentation on providing for student and family needs in today’s society by Jennifer Russell Baker, Family Specialist at Compass Rose Journey, here in Windcrest. After the meeting we’ll be decorating the Christmas tree at the Civic Center!
Light Up Kick Off is happening soon! To commemorate our City’s 65th Anniversary, and the 2024 Light Up theme, the Women’s Club commissioned a Limited Edition collectible tree ornament! Order your beautiful Blue Sapphire bauble for just $10 on our website WindcrestWomensClub.org or contact us via email at WindcrestWC@gmail.com! It’s a holiday must-have!
A Message From Fire Inspector, Tim Zelenak
With all the holidays upon us, this month’s safety tip that I would like to talk about is cooking safety. Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires that involve cooking equipment. The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving, and kids love to help and be involved in the holiday preparations. With all the activity going on in your home during Thanksgiving, here are a few safety tips:
• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top, so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove – the stove is hot, and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure children stay away from hot foods and liquids steam or splashes from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter or within easy reach of a child.
If you are planning on frying your Thanksgiving Turkey this year, here are a few safety tips:
• Do not overfill the fryer.
• Fryers should always be used outdoors, on a solid level surface and a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
• Never use a fryer on a wooden deck.
• Keep an ABC fire extinguisher nearby.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in the fryer.
The Windcrest Fire Marshal wishes everyone A SAFE AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Windcrest Golf
By Mary Wold
Pumpkin Spice and Cinnamon scents in the crisp fall air - WELL, maybe not in this area, but the idea is there to get out and enjoy the cool temps with a refreshing game of GOLF! Great Deals at Windcrest Golf. Ladies Play every Thursday, Tee time is 9am. We welcome all levels of lady golfers. For more info, please call Mary 210-608-9645.
Dale Flashberg from and her service dog trainee, Presley.
GARDEN CLUB
By: Narquiz Cervantes
Windcrest Garden Club Membership Form
Before pulling on your garden gloves, complete the membership form below and send it with a check for $20.00 (payable to WGC) to WINDCREST GARDEN CLUB, P.O. Box 18786, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78218
The Fall months of November and December will bring our club members opportunities to meet for potlucks and hear special speakers, but the season will also allow us time to gather with friends and family and honor the WGC commitment to give back to our community. We began this commitment on September 3 by donating school supplies for Windcrest Elementary. We thank Lynn, Kitty, Linda, and Kathy for organizing the event, our guest speaker David Wallace, and our VP, John Miranda, for conducting the first meeting of Fall 2024.
At our next non-potluck meeting on November 12, 10:00 am Tuesday at the Civic Center, Jamie Whitfield from the Christmas Cheer program will be our guest. The nonprofit program organizes gifts and decorations for underprivileged children and youth. In addition, a representative from the San Antonio Food Bank will be present, so we encourage all members to donate toys, decorations, and food supplies on Nov. 12.
The Nov. 12 meeting will also include: A) White Elephant auction, so bring that unwrapped, unusual, novelty gift for bidding. B) Current club members that bring a new paying member will receive a “Windcrest Garden T-shirt.” C) Poinsettia sale orders will be $18, or contact Annette at (210) 426-9928 by November 15.
November promises to be packed with activity, and gives us a chance to meet, enjoy the festivities, contribute, and give “thanks” for being able to share in the season.
Also, mark the December 9, 11:00 am Monday, Potluck Christmas Favorites meeting at the Civic Center, where our speaker will be Sir Oliver Smith, who will speak on Water Saver Landscapes with native plants. Happy Thanksgiving Windcrest.
Membership is open to men & women in Windcrest and surrounding communities.
Happy gardening!
Name:_________________________________________
Spouse Name:___________________________________
I'm renewing my membership: NO INFO CHANGE ________DOB ________
City & Zip:_______________________________________ Phone:___________________________________________
Lynn Rothe setting up school supply donations.
VP John Miranda conducting Sept. 3 meeting.
LIONS CLUB NEWS
By Lion Tim Flick
Get ready Windcrest, our awesome Chili Cornbread dinner is right around the corner. Make sure you mark the 2nd Saturday, November 9 on your calendar! The dinner is at the Takas Park Civic Center. The doors open at 5:00 PM and we’ll serve chili until 7:30 PM. You can also get it to go. Early bird tickets are $8 each, or $10 at the door. So be sure to contact one of your neighborhood Lions Club members and get your tickets early! As always, children under 10 (eating in) are free. We also have vegetarian chili. We can’t wait to see you there.
It’s already November, which means Christmas will be here before you know it. This year’s decorating theme is “Blue Sapphire”, in honor of the 65th anniversary of Windcrest, TX. So, start thinking about how you’ll decorate for light up.
The Lions Club is selling greenery again this year. It’s fresh cut, smells great and looks beautiful. You have until Nov. 5th to get your orders in. Hopefully you got your orders in already!
We are also working with our local elementary schools to get the teachers needed supplies to help them with their daily lessons.
Animal Care & Control
Animals, like humans, are susceptible to the harsh effects of winter weather. For this reason, we would like to remind everyone to take precautions with their pets this upcoming winter season. It is important for pet owners and animal caretakers to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their furry friends.
If your pet is usually kept outside, consider bringing them inside or creating a shelter for them that will keep them warm. Heat lamps and small indoor space heaters can help warm their shelter on cold days. Modern technology has allowed for pet safe heat pads that can also be a good option to make sure your furry friend stays warm when they are outside. Be sure to read the instructions of the heating devices you buy thoroughly to make sure they are safe to use around your pet.
Remember to register your pets with the Windcrest Police Department each year. This is not only a city ordinance, but it is also there to make sure we can more easily return them home if they manage to get lost. For more questions, please call 210-6552666 to speak to a Windcrest Animal Control Officer.
TxWeACT an animal non-profit
Windcrest Animal Control Task Force
Can’t believe this time of year is here. Preparations are beginning as the holidays are drawing near. TxWeACT is busy with our crafts and going to fairs so that we can continue to support the abandoned dogs and cats in our neighborhoods. We don’t meet in November or December because of all the added excitement of the season. That doesn’t mean that we aren’t keeping an eye on all the critters that are among us. We still have adoption events hoping for new homes for the dogs that we have and try to connect people with the help that they need.
TxWeACT also would like to encourage residents to consider being fosters for either dogs or cats. Since our city does not have their own facility to house our stray population, we are in constant need of folks who would be willing to house a dog or cat for a period of time while we look for a new home for them. You get all the joy of loving on an animal without the long term commitment of owning one. The motto for this time of year is “Eat too much, Laugh too hard and then take a nap!” Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!
OTHER CONTACT INFORMATION
ORGANIZATIONS:
American Legion - Jack Leonhardt - jackleonhardt@aol.com
Boy Scout of America: Justin Buckner - 210-744-7296 - buckj64@gmail.com
FIT High-Performance Tennis Academy & Pickleball Center - 210-405-3781www.fithptennisacademy.com
