With winter weather just around the corner, San Marcos officials are partnering with the local Salvation Army to collect and distribute heaters to residents in need. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 12.

Why it matters: “Each year, our community shows incredible generosity through the winter heater drive,” Brian McHenry, SMTX Utilities assistant director, said in a news release. “These donations help families stay safe and comfortable during the colder months and remind us of the power of neighbors helping neighbors.”

How to give help: Officials said there are two options to support those in need, including:

• Purchase a heater through the online Amazon Wish List dedicated to the initiative
• Make a monetary donation through Stripe—an online payment service

La Ola Pop Shop will open its first Buda spot within an upcoming development called The Roundabout in Buda.

The details: Owners Julian and Paulina Hernandez, along with their son Aaron, opened the first location at 856 Kohlers Crossing, Ste. 320, Kyle, in 2017.

On the menu: The shop will serve ice cream and popsicles made from hand-picked fruit.

• Roundabout in Buda, 1141 FM 967, Buda

Central Texas may be far from the coast, but Austin Surf Club, taking shape near the Bastrop County line, will bring an endless supply of waves to the region. 

The details: Arizona-based Discovery Land Co. and professional surfer Kelly Slater are building 140 condominiums, a brewery, a restaurant and a clubhouse across more than 330 acres—a site that will also feature a 2,220-square-foot surf basin.

The brewery and restaurant are scheduled to finish construction by Dec. 1, according to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Both projects are renovations and expansions of existing facilities.

Also of note: Developers listed several ways that Austin Surf Club will be mindful of its environment.

Water will be reclaimed through a retention pond that will hold “several million gallons” of collected rain, while trees from around the site will be relocated throughout the development when landscaping begins, according to Discovery Land Co.

Here are the top Community Impact stories in the Austin area from Nov. 10-14.

1. Johnson Development planning 1,900-home community in Liberty Hill

2. Georgie’s restaurant in Georgetown serves up fresh seafood and cocktails

3. CI Foodie: Coffee, barbecue and more dining updates in Austin and nearby

4. Georgetown scraps Berry Creek Trail project due to resident feedback

5. Three Round Rock businesses slated for southwest corner of A.W. Grimes, E. Palm Valley boulevards

6. Proposed Skybox data center moves forward in Round Rock