Wimberley Valley
PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #8 WIMBERLEY, TX 78676 ECRWSS
NEWS & VIEWS Volume 23 Issue 5 • Wimberley, Texas • April 2020 ECRWSS EDDM
Postal Patron
Artwork by Kathy Kelsey
T he Wimberley Way of Living Wimberley Valley News & Views
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April 2020
Want Results? Call us today! Co
213 Mesa $545,000 - Molly Wendt
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TBD Rancho Grande $230,000 - Zach Adkisson
Melinda Everett, Associated Broker 512-695-5963
Randall Morris & Associates
335 Eagles Nest Clay Ewing
Traci Maxwell, Associated Broker 512-393-9996
Zach Adkisson, Sales Associate 512-217-4776
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Molly Wendt, Sales Associate 512-940-1711
Clay E Ewing, Associated Broker 512-922-7475
Don Montague Sales Associate 512-921-1014
Serving the Wimberley area • Century 21 Randall Morris & Associates • 13320 Ranch Road 12 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
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Wimberley Valley News & Views
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April 2020
Wimberley Valley News & Views
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April 2020
✯ CALENDAR OF EVENTS ✯ Visit WVNewsViews.com • Every Mon.-Thur. 4:15-8:30pm. Katherine Anne Porter night school to service those who have a few credits to graduate or cannot attend high school during the day. Free to attend. Applications can be found at www.kapschool.org or call (512) 847-6867. • Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Merchants Association meets at the Sassy Scrapper’s at 6:15pm. For more info call 512-847-6544. • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org for information. • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW on 401 Jacobs Well Rd. Wimberley. Every 2nd Mon. 10am the Jacob’s Well Chapter NADAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) meets at the Emily Ann Theater. For information contact Laura Chalberg at jacobswellnsdar@gmail.com. • Every 3rd Mon. The Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association meets at the Chapel of The Hills Church, 14601 RR 12 in Wimberley from 9-11am. Caregivers, friends, and relatives are welcome. Guest speakers and general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program For more information contact. Paul 361-265-8161 or visit WimberleyAPA.com. • Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, An Interdenominational Bible Study. 2019-2020 Course of Study: 1&2 Peter, Joshua and Christian Living. To register call 512-808-9156 or email paula.king206@yahoo.com. • Every Tue. Wimberley Home Health offers free blood pressure monitoring 10-10:30am at the Wimberley Community Center in the Seniors Lounge. • Every Tue. The Wimberley Rotary Club meets at Wimberley ISD administration building, 951 FM 2325. For more info call 512-847-2510. • Every 1st Tue. the Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical checks 9:30-10:30am. For more info call 512-847-2510. • Every 1st and 3rd Tue. the Wimberley Lions Club meets at the Wimberley Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info. • Every 2nd Tue. Wimberley Masonic Lodge meets at 181 Masonic Road, meal at 6pm and lodge stand meeting at 7pm. Call 512847-3463 for more information. • Every 2nd Tues. Art Society of Wimberley meets in Art Room. 100 Melody, 7pm. Call 512-964-7333. • Every 2nd Wed. Sep. Through May, Wimberley Garden Club meets at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection at 101 West Spoke Hill Drive. Refreshments at 9:30 a.m. Programs start at 10 am. For more information visit WimberleyGardenClub.org. • Every 2nd Wed. 11:30-1pm. Wimberley Area Cancer Support Group meets in the Wimberley Visitors Center board room, brown bag lunch. If you have cancer now or in the past, grab your lunch and join us for a relaxing time with others who share your journey. Call Sharon East at 512-924-2002 or Dave Boyd at 512-923-9373 for additional information.
• Every 3rd Wed. August thru May, 9:45-12am. The Herb Society of America Hill Country Unit meets at the Wimberley Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 956 RR 2325, For more information visit HillCountryHerbs.org. • Every 3rd Wed. EmanciPet Low-Cost Mobile Spay/Neuter cinic in Brookshire parking lot. Appointments required EmanciPet. org or 512 587-7729; contact ARF for more info 512 8472878. WAG for dog vouchers WimberleyWAGRescue.org or 512 847-3200. Dog/cat vouchers PALS PreventaLitter.com or 512 754-7257. • Every 4th Wed. Hill Country Neighbors meets at Wimberley Community Center starting at 10am. For more information contact 512-847-2849. • Every 1st Thur. The Wimberley Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group meets at 1pm at the Presbyterian Church Library on FM 2325. Contact Linda Germain at 512-924-3661. • Every 2nd Thur. The Hill Country Bead Society meets at 1pm at the Wimberley Community Center, Blanco Room. Contact Marilyn Pierce, for more info call 512-722-3549 or visit HillCountryBeadSociety.com. • Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club meets at First Baptist Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway, Wimberley. Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership. For more info contact Amy O’Neil at amy@texiasllc.com. • Every 3rd Thur. Live concerts, best music in the Hill Country at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, 7:30pm; $20-25 for adults, $5 for children. Food, coffee and soft drinks available. Corner of RR 12 & CR 1492 (Wimberley United Methodist Church.) For more info go to www.wimberleyumc.org Proceeds benefit Barnabas Connection & Mother’s Day Out scholarships. • Every Fri. Celebrate Freedom 6-8pm, pizza, 5:30pm Cypress Creek Church. Call 512-847-1222 or visit CypressCreekChurch.com. • Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten galleries for art, food and fun, 4-7pm. Call 830-708-7433. • Every 2nd Sat. WAG Rescue’s monthly dog adoption at King Feed. Call 512-847-3200 for more information. • Every Sun. The Wimberley Cycling Club fun no drop ride 10-20 miles. Meet 2:30pm Blanco Brew coffee shop. 14200 Ranch Rd 12. Join us on Facebook @Wimberley Cycling Club for more info. • Every Sun. 4:30pm, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at the Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325. OA is for anyone who has compulsive eating issues (overeaters, anorexics and bulimics.) We follow the 12-step recovery program adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous. For more info, please contact Aida at 512-787-8313. • Sat. April 18, Wimberley Pie Social, 11am-2pm. Wimberley Institue of Culture. See pages 12-13 for info and entry form. • Sat. April 26-27, Wimberley Arts Fest at Waters Point Resort on the Blanco River, 13401 RR12. See page 3 for more info.
Wimberley Valley News & Views • 512-709-6935 • P.O. Box 91554 Austin, Texas 78709
Wimberley Valley News & Views
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April 2020
The Light of the World Gathered over eons through time and space, bits of ancient supernovae were drawn by gravity into a plane of orbits around a newer star, eventually coalescing into the planets, including our unique Earth— the pale blue dot with a moving core that creates a magnetic field surrounding and protecting itself from much of the solar radiation that constantly bathes it. That protective dynamo, caused by convection currents in the iron at the core of the Earth, is partly responsible for one of the most magnificent displays in all of Nature. In the cool, dark days of late January, northern Norwegian coastal towns like Tromsø get barely four hours of daylight each day, the sun appearing just above the horizon in the south before retreating. The resulting twenty hours of daily darkness makes it a perfect spot to watch for the Aurora borealis. Getting to see the northern lights in person has been a lifelong dream that I was able to fulfill this year. Even as I stood under the stark, cold, starlit sky, I marveled that I was seeing a natural phenomenon that most humans never get to see, and I am humbled to have been graced with several spectacular displays of one of her most marvelous secrets. I have developed a reverence for Mother Nature’s balancing interactions, her constant and complex interwoven systems. I would say that for me a startlingly simple but powerful realization is that I
am not just an observer of, but also a participant in Nature as I live my life. Experiencing the northern lights was, in a very real sense, a defining spiritual experience. Nothing will ever seem quite the same for me. As I reach my hands into the earth to plant a spring garden, I now understand a little more of what makes a garden and all of us grow. The reliance of every expression of life on all other lifeforms is clearer and more meaningful. We’re all in this together, folks. Love and appreciate others. Take care of each other. We’re bonded for all time. Horticulturist Tim Thompson has managed the garden center at King Feed and Hardware for the past 25 years. They offer everything you need to have the garden of your dreams without stressing your budget. Pick up Tim’s Tips, free one page sheets on how to carry out dozens of gardening projects available only at King Feed Nursery. Call Tim at 512-847-2618.
Current Wimberley home sales snapshot It's bluebonnet season in the Texas Hill Country once again! This is certainly a welcomed sign. It also means that spring and warmer weather are here to stay. Since spring is also the peak real estate season, here are some thoughts to consider if you are thinking about jumping into the market yourself. According to the Austin Board of Realtors there are 72 homes for sale in the 78676 zip code as of early March. During the month of February, 21 homes were listed for sale at a median list price $437,450. For the same period, 18 homes sold at a sales price of $422,500. This indicates that homes in Wimberley sold at 96.5% of list price. It also suggests the inventory of available homes is at a four month supply. So what does all that mean? In short, Wimberley has a limited supply of homes to sell while strong buyer demand is keeping values high. This means, now is a great time to sell a home and maximize the selling price. While demand is strong and many agents are working with buyers that are not able to find what their clients are looking for, we never know what the market will do and how long this seller's Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Tim Thompson
by Greg Ward
market will continue. For instance on March 3, the Federal Reserve made an emergency rate cut out of concerns over the economic impact from a potential coronavirus outbreak. It came as the largest one-time cut since 2008. Will this have a future impact on our local market? What about the political climate and possible economic repercussions that could come from the campaign trail? How likely are these events to change the dynamic momentum of our robust real estate market here in Wimberley? No crystal ball here but I believe this spring is still going to be a great selling season. So if you are thinking of selling property in or around Wimberley, the trends suggest we will continue to have more buyers than sellers. Here's the prediction: as the temperature heats up so will Wimberley's real estate market! For more information or to get a value opinion of your property, visit my website at www.wimberley.kw.com Greg has been in the real estate business over 20 years helping people turn dreams into lifestyle. Greg has recently joined the Partners in Real Estate Group in Wimberley. In addition to his experience with Keller Williams, Greg brings expertise as a real estate developer, entrepreneur and home builder to help guide his clients through the transaction process. Greg looks forward to serving you and all your Hill Country real estate needs. Call 512648-7538 for more information.
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Spring and your trees Spring is a great time to prepare your trees for the stress that accompanies our hot, dry summers. Issues to consider include insect pests, leaf diseases, and nutrient deficiencies in the soil. Defoliating caterpillars are common in many Texas trees during spring. Normally, a healthy tree can withstand some defoliation because it has energy reserves to regrow foliage. But drought stress has reduced or depleted those reserves in many of our Texas trees. A pest particularly attracted to weakened trees is the borer, and this insect can do significant damage. Having your trees treated for any seasonal pests and borer activity is a good way to help prepare them for summer’s harshness. Leaf diseases can cause defoliation, too, and inhibit a tree’s or shrub’s ability to make its food, the energy produced through photosynthesis. These diseases also diminish the plant’s appearance in the landscape. If defoliation from leaf disease occurs in several consecutive years, tree health may severely decline. Many leaf diseases, such as anthracnose and leaf spot are caused by fungi, which can be controlled through a program of treatments that begin at bud break. Other controls may include canopy thinning for better air circulation and light penetration and avoiding irrigation
methods that wet the lower canopy. Any canopy thinning should be done by a qualified arborist according to ANSI standards and, especially for oak trees, at the appropriate time of year. Nutrient deficiencies in the soil can also affect tree health. Trees need adequate amounts of macronutrients, such as nitrogen, and micronutrients, such as iron, to function and grow. Soil pH, a measure of the soil’s acidity or alkalinity, can impact the availability of nutrients to the plant. Soil testing is a good way to determine a soil’s pH and whether nutrient deficiencies are present. Then a qualified arborist can fertilize the tree according to the soil analysis prescription. Caterpillars and leaf diseases love spring. Timely control and maintaining tree health can help your trees stand up to the challenges that our Texas summers present. A Wimberley resident, Steven Austin is a member of the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture and is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist and ISA Tree Worker/Climber Specialist. His expertise includes integrated pest management of trees and shrubs and state-ofthe-art organic treatments. He holds a commercial pesticide license with the Texas Department of Agriculture and is Texas Oak Wilt Certified by the Texas Forest Service. Steven is an Arborist Representative for Bartlett Tree Experts. Call 512-392-1089 or toll-free at 800-443-8733.
These 7 features may sell your home faster Thinking of listing your home this spring? Here are seven features that may help your home sell fast – the most popular features buyers look for in a home. 1) Laundry room. Most buyers (92%) of all ages want a separate laundry room with space for appliances, plus room to sort and iron, versus a nook in a hallway or bathroom. 2) Exterior lighting. 90% of buyers want a home with outdoor lighting, including spotlights, walkway lights and pendant lights. This highlights your home’s curb appeal and is a safety measure. Example: Motion lights that turn on when they sense movement. 3) Energy-efficient windows and appliances. Energy Star-rated windows and appliances are a top choice of buyers – 90% prefer energy-saving appliances and 87% prefer energy-saving windows. Energy-efficient windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by 12%. Homeowners may save up to $40 a year on their utility bills by including energy-efficient appliances in their homes. 4) Patio. More than 84% of buyers feel a patio is an important home feature. Many entertain outside during the warmer months; a patio allows for this without having to modify their home. 5) Hardwood floors. For 82% of buyers, hardwood floors are a desirable selling point. More durable and easier to maintain than carpet, they offer a timeless aesthetic. 6) Garage storage space. Storage is important to 81% of buyers, Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Steven Austin
by AJ Harwood
especially with growing families. Storage in the garage keeps the main living areas free of clutter and is more accessible than the attic or basement. Consider installing pegboard on the wall for tools, improving the lighting and electrical circuits or adding cabinets. 7) Eat-in kitchen. Many buyers (80%) like the appeal of eating their meals in the kitchen, especially if they have children. Creating space in the kitchen for a small table and chairs may be as simple as removing a wall if it is non-load-bearing and without pipes or wires needing to be removed. If your home has these features, we’ll highlight them if you decide to list. If not, and you want to renovate to add them, give me a call and I’ll connect you with a great contractor. If you’re thinking of listing your home in the coming months, I’d love to discuss the market with you. Give me a call and I’ll give you a comparative market analysis of your home and answer any questions. This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes only. Sources: Kiplinger, August 2016. Used with permission by the Buffini & Company. Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES the Local Wimberley RE/MAX office and is Wimberley’s “Peak Producer” offering Professional Representation for both Buyers and Sellers in Real Estate Transactions. He may be contacted at 512.847.“SOLD” 7653 or at AJ@ REMAXRealProperties.com or drop by our Wimberley office located at 201 Stillwater Suite #1 in the South River Business Park, Wimberley, Texas 78676
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Morphed magic I recently came across my replica of the first edition of Encyclopedia Britannica printed in 1775. “Library” was listed as “an edifice or apartment destined for holding a considerable number of books placed regularly on shelves; or, the books themselves lodged in it.” Such was the library when I was first exposed to one as a child: an imposing building, minimally staffed by stern but knowledgeable ladies trying to keep the place quiet. But it was a magical place, filled with books of all descriptions. I was fascinated by this breadth of knowledge and enjoyment free for my use. For years, nothing much changed. Fast-forward to the introduction of personal computers, and then the Internet. The end of libraries was predicted. That didn’t happen, and won’t. Technology changed society. But, as technology changed, so did libraries. They evolved to become a different institution. Yes, books remain vitally important to our intellectual and cultural continuity. But a modern library, such as ours in Wimberley, has become a community service center, an open, dynamic organization. Did you know you can conduct many of the activities of a small office/ home office at the library thanks to high-speed wireless computing, fax and copy capabilities? You can have documents notarized, get AARP assistance with tax preparation, get help with resume preparation and more. If the library doesn’t have something you
by Mike Morgan
are looking for, the staff can search for it nationwide. The library is managed by a professional and knowledgeable staff, supplemented by an extensive cadre of volunteers. Perhaps most visible are hundreds of specialty programs sponsored by the library and groups needing space that’s free of charge. All these activities have seen large growth in attendance, precipitating a need for more space. An expansion program is underway. See the library web page for details. So, our library remains the magical place I remember as a child. But it has morphed to meet contemporary needs for a diverse audience. In other words, it has become your library. Mike Morgan is a board member of Friends of the Library, an Inter-Library Loan processor and member of other teams. He and wife, Patti, moved to Wimberley after Mike’s retirement from a major energy company. They enjoy supporting Wimberley’s organizations and lifestyle while Patti pursues free-lance writing.
All good things
by Lindley Pond
Happy April and spring to you all. our ever unpredictable weather, be it freezes, drought or heat, makWe have a lot to be thankful for this ing the right choices can mean the difference between perfection year. As the temps are warming, trees and money flying out the window. budding, grasses turning green, we are Enjoy the beautiful weather and take your time, all good things. thankful for the freezes that graced our If you need any help, we are here! areas. We might have lost a few things, but a freeze is nature’s way to keep our We’re here to help fulfill your “outside dreams.” Call us for a free balances in check and ensure that fruit consultation and design. Lindley Pond is owner of Lindley Pond trees will fruit and bugs won’t be near Landscaping. We are here to make things out of your reach hapas prolific. Hard year for the cedar pollen if it gets you... so goes pen. Don’t hesitate to call or email. We’d love to help you design the shady spot you deserve. We’ve been helping folks in Central living in the Hill Country! LINDLEY POND FONT: Frederika The Great LANDSCAPING Avenir Texas for over 15 years.FONT: Give usBook a call for design and installation Let’s be thankful that we have another glorious spring upon us PURPLE: PMSContact 2082 of your new “lawn.” us at 512-775-1629. with which to enjoy the fruits of our labor, be it veggies we grew GREEN: PMS 7473 in a green house or with lights or our trusty perennial goodies popping their heads out. We have the chance to see what worked and what didn’t from our plan of last year. Landscaping and outdoor living is usually trial and error, hopefully more successes than failures. Moving into late spring, it’s still a great time to come up with ideas that can be implemented now or with baby steps. It’s a wonderful time to install some of the bones that give us a palette to work within. Hardscapes can be planned out and inP: 512.775.1629 stalled, giving us a master plan to work with, coming up with ideas W: lindleypond.com to take advantage of in the fall. That along with going easy on the E: lindleypond171@gmail.com pocketbook, make things seem a little less overwhelming. With Wimberley Valley News & Views Page 7 April 2020
Think about your water supply by Randy Lawrence
Steven E Austin
Arborist Representative ISA Certified Arborist #TX-3616AT
bartlett.com SAustin@bartlett.com p 512.392.1089 f 512.392.7398
1324 Old Martindale Road, San Marcos, TX 78666
Greg Ward Realtor
512-648-7538 Partners in Real Estate Group Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
GregWardRealty@kw.com
13210 Ranch Road 12
CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
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With drought conditions and another Texas summer just a few months away, thoughts are turning to alternative water sources and more efficient treatment techniques. Even with forecasts predicting less than average rainfall, more homeowners are looking to the sky in hopes of preventing interruptions to their water supply. Rainwater collection systems are designed and built into many new homes. Although it can be tricky, it is usually possible to incorporate rain collection into an existing structure. When used in conjunction with treated groundwater, the stored rainwater can ease the burden on our aquifers. One downside to rainwater collection systems, besides a potentially limited supply, is the cost of installation. Once the system is designed by a professional, you will need gutters, downspouts, collection lines, storage tanks, a booster pump and pressure tank, as well as proper filtration and disinfection equipment. For many homeowners, their budget requires them to consider other means of conserving water. Often, this includes replacing appliances and fixtures with more water-efficient models. One of the most commonly overlooked, and misunderstood, household appliances is the water softener. It can be difficult to know whether it is operating at maximum efficiency. There has been a flurry of advertising aimed at those who have had a traditional salt-based water softener. Many of these products have existed for years, and are simply repackaged and heavily marketed. Unfortunately, the results produced by these “alternatives” typically fall far short of the claims made by their distributors. This often leaves homeowners with no choice but to scrap their investment and start from scratch. The only proven method of removing calcium and other hardness minerals is traditional ion exchange softening, and that recent technological advances have made softeners far more efficient and user-friendly than ever. In order to maximize the efficiency of your water treatment system, ensure that your equipment is up to date, and that the settings accurately reflect your particular water conditions. An experienced technician can test your water quality, check the condition and performance of your system and make any adjustments or upgrades which may be necessary.
Randy Lawrence is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With over 20 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and surrounding areas for over a decade. “When you want quality, call a pro.”
ProQuality Water Systems
Randy Lawrence A
in customer service
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Certified by the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality Class III License # WT0002693
Wimberley Valley News & Views
512-618-1334 (830) 822-3533
full service water treatment company specializing
www.proqualitywater.com
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April 2020
Biomechanics Our Grandmaster Kim Soo had back pain as a young man from his practice. His training was focused on war efforts instead of health and longevity. To get out of pain, he needed to make some changes to his approach. The result was the creation of a karate system that strengthens the body over a lifetime. He is now eighty, and his moves are very powerful and natural. There is no strain, and the power comes from his whole body working together. An example of this is to watch him doing a flying side kick. Every part of his body flows together, creating a very strong kick and a very soft, effortless landing. This ability and efficiency is inspiring. I want the same when I age. Our kids should be able to train without causing their joints permanent harm, too. And he is the reason our classes for senior citizens are so popular. I was a therapist at a form of exercise therapy called the Egoscue Method. We too studied how to move the body correctly. Our bodies are amazing in how they can adapt. When one set of muscles get weak, another set starts doing the work. We can still move, but at a cost. An example is when we sit on the ground with our legs straight. When trying to sit up straighter in that position, many people will crunch the muscles in the low back to force the low back forward. This technically works, but the muscles that are supposed to do
by Sarah Geenberg
that work attach the leg to the lower abdomen in the front. By pulling on those, the pelvis would rotate forward, thus straightening the low back. Those muscle want to do the work but are often inhibited due to tight muscles elsewhere. Meanwhile, our poor lower backs are doing too much work. Whether through karate, Tai Chi, or yoga, we are constantly striving for correct biomechanics. This leads to pain-free power – a power that comes from deep within and really works. And that power brings us peace. Sarah owns Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio located in the old Baptist Church by Blue Hole. Senior’s Only Karate class Tuesday and Thursday at 12pm. No experience required. Call 512-9718528, visit WimberleyKarateAndYogaStudio.com or find us on Facebook.
Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio Sarah Geenberg (512) 971-8528 501 Old Kyle Road Wimberley, TX 78676 WimberleyKarateAndYogaStudio.com
What is collagen and why is it important in skin care? Part 1
by Karen Laine, Para-Medical Aesthetician
Collagen is the most abundant protein will help your joints move more easily and reduce pain. in our bodies, making up 75% of our skin. Supplementing collagen for your skin is best achieved in a speIt supports the appearance of smooth, cific form called hydrolyzed collagen, comprised of small amino youthful skin and provides structure acids, also referred to as collagen peptides. Unlike the gelatin form and strength for our bones, muscles and of collagen in Jello, collagen peptides are absorbed quickly by the tendons. It’s essentially the glue that body and stimulate the body’s own natural collagen production. In helps hold our bodies together. Our body clinical studies, this bio-available form of collagen has been shown naturally produces the collagen it needs but production gradually to significantly reduce wrinkle volume, increase elasticity and begins to slow as we age. Women produce less collagen than men skin hydration levels. Due to the absorption ability of hydrolyzed and this collagen is lost at a rate of about 1% per year. This means collagen, significant increases in fibroblasts leading to increased that a woman has naturally lost almost half of the collagen from density of the skin. In other words, hydrolyzed collagen is the secret her skin by the age of 50! to youthful skin. Collagen is also greatly affected by environmental stresses such Karen Laine is a para-medical aesthetician and makeup artist with as sun exposure, nutrition, skin damage and exposure to toxins 23 years experience. Contact her at 512-847-8052. Her office is such as pollutants, cigarette smoke and recreational drugs. With located at 14500 Ranch Road 12, suite 20, in Wimberley. decreased collagen, the skin loses its natural elasticity and firmness. This is when fine lines, wrinkles and sagging appear. Maintaining the amount of collagen is the key to beautiful skin. Increasing collagen levels can firm your skin, increase smoothness and help your skin cells renew and repair normally. Not only will your skin (full body!) benefit from collagen’s strengthening powers but your hair, nails and teeth will also thank you for the extra TLC. The protein in collagen works as a building block, keeping them strong and healthy. With collagen loss, we also experience stiffness in our tendons and ligaments and swollen joints. Ingesting collagen is the equivalent of greasing a creaky door hinge. Collagen Wimberley Valley News & Views Page 9 April 2020
Spreading free smiles across Central Texas San Marcos Gentle Dental and J. Robert Donnelly, D.D.S. hosted its 7th annual Dentistry from The Heart - For The Love of Chance event providing 70 patients with free dental care valued at over $30,000! The event took place on February 28, 2020, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. and the first patients were in line by 6:00 p.m. the night before. Dentistry From The Heart patients travel from across Texas every year to attend these events which provide free dentistry to those in need. In 2001, Dentistry From The Heart started with Florida dentist Dr. Vincent Monticciolo as a way to give back to the community and provide aid to the growing number of Americans without dental insurance. Since its inception, Dentistry From The Heart has grown to include over 200 annual events nationwide and provided more than 45,000 people with free dental care services. At this year’s event the participating dentists included J. Robert Donnelly, D.D.S., John K. Drisdale III D.M.D. and Charles Reeves, D.D.S. Along with the dentists there were three hygienists, Dr. Donnelly’s staff, numerous volunteers, and sponsors ensuring that the event was a success. The team provided either a free extraction, filling or cleaning to patients attending the event. “It all comes down to wanting to provide something greater to my community in memory of my son Chance,” said Dr. Donnelly.
“The services provided by Dentistry From The Heart helps more than just a patient’s teeth, it gives them a renewed reason to smile.” Dentistry From The Heart is a registered non-profit organization that provides free dental work for people who are in need. In the past thirteen years, Dentistry From The Heart events have contributed more than $8 million in free dentistry and helped more than 45,000 patients across the country. For more information, visit www.dentistryfromtheheart.org. We look forward to meeting you and helping with your dental health so please call us at 512-396-5225. Voted Best Dentist in Hays County and a Texas Super Dentist by Texas Monthly Magazine!
J. Robert Donnelly, D.D.S. Master of The Academy of General Dentistry
1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, TX 78666 512-396-5225 Fax: 512-396-7022
Sanmarcosdental.com
Litigation: “Men are like dirty diapers” While sitting in the courtroom waiting to start a jury trial in a rural county, I caught a bit of the testimony in the trial ahead of mine. What I observed reminded me of one of the challenges lawyers face in presenting a client to a jury. Trials happen quickly and, as we know, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. A young lady, trying to regain custody of her pre-teen daughter, was wearing a revealing cocktail dress which did little to create the best image of a caring mother of a pre-teen child in the minds of the jurors. The negative impression her attire created was further reinforced when the father’s lawyer, over the objection of her lawyer, made her admit that a bumper sticker on her pickup truck parked outside read, “Men are like dirty diapers; they are full of (bleep) and they are always on your (bleep).” (If you can’t figure out the “bleeps,” you can find the “uncut” version of this article at rolandslaw.com). Rightly or wrongly, the mother lost her bid for custody. In one of my own trials, the defendant, an arrogant sort who had bragged to his lawyer that I’d never lay a glove on him at trial, wore an eyepopping diamond ring to trial. You can imagine that the presence of that ring flashing in the jurors’ eyes made it easier for them to award my injured client a large verdict against him and Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
by Roland Brown
his company. Judges and jurors look for something objective to confirm or refute the testimony presented at trial because they assume every litigant will try to put the best spin on their side of the story. Therefore, things such as certain attire, bumper stickers, jewelry, tattoos, and behavior of the parties observed by jurors in the hallway can spell the difference between winning and losing at trial. The effective trial lawyer will discuss with the client how to dress, use of appropriate language, how to react to attacks at trial, and similar things so that an otherwise winning presentation is not torpedoed by something that could be easily avoided. Roland Brown is a litigation attorney with forty-plus years experience handling civil litigation throughout Texas. For more information call 512-847-2500 or visit RolandsLaw.com.
LITIGATOR k k k k
512-847-2500
Personal Injury Inheritance Disputes Property Disputes Other Disputes
15577 Road Ranch12 Road 12, Suite 105 Wimberley 78676 12111 Ranch ~ Wimberley ~ www.rolandslaw.com
Page 10 April 2020
The SECURE Act and your retirement savings by Scott G. Hackett, CFP®
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act was enacted in December 2019 as part of a larger federal spending package. This long-awaited legislation expands savings opportunities for workers and includes new requirements and incentives for employers that provide retirement benefits. At the same time, it restricts a popular estate planning strategy for individuals with significant assets in IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans. Here are some of the changes that may affect your retirement, tax, and estate planning strategies: Benefits for retirement savers: Later RMDs. Individuals born on or after July 1, 1949, can wait until age 72 to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans instead of starting them at age 70½ as required under previous law. This is a boon for individuals, because it postpones payment of income taxes and gives the account a longer time to pursue tax-deferred growth. No traditional IRA age limit. There is no longer a prohibition on contributing to a traditional IRA after age 70½ — taxpayers can make contributions at any age as long as they have earned income.
This helps older workers who want to save while reducing their taxable income. More part-timers gain access to retirement plans. For plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, part-time workers age 21 and older who log at least 500 hours annually for three consecutive years generally must be allowed to contribute to qualified retirement plans. (The previous requirement was 1,000 hours and one year of service.) Goodbye stretch IRA: Under previous law, nonspouse beneficiaries who inherited assets in employer plans and IRAs could "stretch" RMDs over their lifetimes. The new law generally requires a beneficiary who is more than 10 years younger than the original account owner to liquidate the inherited account within 10 years. This shorter distribution period could result in bigger tax bills for children and grandchildren who inherit accounts. If you have questions about how the SECURE Act may impact your finances, this may be a good time to consult your financial, tax, and/or legal professionals. Scott G. Hackett, CFP® is the president of the Hackett Financial Group LLC (HFG), a fee-only registered investment advisor. Contact Scott at 512-847-0630.
Defiance of disorder There was a recent article in Time about Columbia University Professor Brian Greene, a quantum physicist who has recently released a book called Until the End of Time. Professor Greene asserts that everything in our world, everything that we see and feel, is a result of quantum particles just doing their thing. Accordingly, he posits that there is no purpose to the universe and that there is no intrinsic morality. Just quantum particles. Kind of discouraging stuff but he doesn’t seem particularly depressed about it. Obviously, he isn’t what you would call a religious man. One of the book’s chapters is about the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Generally stated, this law claims that everything moves towards disorder, to a lower state of energy, and that everything about the universe is trying to move towards being cold and dark. Yet, there exists stars, planets, and people, very organized and full of energy. Dr. Greene solves this paradox citing the force of Gravity, which pulls things together, making planets, and igniting suns that, in turn, generate all the star stuff that we are made of. Gravity holds atmosphere and water onto these planets which then allow us a place to make a home. How does this reconcile with a Law of Thermodynamics that says all must move towards disorder? All this order and organization of suns and galaxies generates a whole lot of heat energy which is dissipated, more heat than is stored in the stuff that gravity pulls together. Even very organized things Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Kern Deschner
such as lifeforms are simultaneously a very efficient way of wasting the universe’s energy and accelerating chaos. I am a little insulted by the thought that I am just a radiator. Quite nihilistic and pessimistic thinking if you ask me, but I am not a physicist. It is interesting how much we all love organization. So much of our lives center around making sure that we have shelter, food, and other resources to keep our lives comfortable and organized. Sometimes it’s fun to watch the Second Law of Thermodynamics work, like when we’re looking at a campfire, or maybe seeing a really cool building demolition, or even watching a bunch of carefully arranged dominos fall. Other times, it’s not so funny, like in a house fire. Those dominos won’t put themselves back up, and campfire or house can’t unburn. It is a one-way trip that we expend energy and resources to resist. Alpacas, like so many other bred animals, represent a defiance of disorder. Years of careful and selective breeding have turned vicuna into Alpacas, wolves into dogs, bison into beef cattle. If not for sustained breeding efforts, everything would move back to their original state. Fortunately, the universe still has a lot of energy to dissipate so we will keep working towards perfection. Rhonda and Kern Deschner are experienced alpaca ranchers raising alpacas through all kinds of Texas weather since 1997. Tierra Prometida Alpaca Ranch can be visited by calling Rhonda at 512753-9962, or at tierra@alpacausa.com.
Page 11 April 2020
April 18, 2020 ~ 11:00 to 2:00 ~ Wimberley Valley Museum
Pie Contest Rules and Entry Form
1. All contest entries must be Homemade. 2. You may enter as many pies as you wish. 3. Please use non-returnable pie pans. 4. Bring pies to Wimberley Community Center from 8:30 ~ 9:30 am. 5. Entries will be judged on APPEARANCE, QUALITY and TASTE. 6. There will be First, Second and Third place winners in each category. 7. One GRAND PRIZE entry will also be chosen. 8. Winning pies will be announced and auctioned at the Pie Social. 9. CATEGORIES: Nut, Fruit, Cream, Specialty and Kids (12 & under). 10. Complete and attach entry form to each pie entered. 11. Entry forms also available at Wimberley Visitors Center, Wimberley Village Library and Online at www.WimWic.org
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PIE CATEGORY Fruit ____ Nut ____ Cream ____ Specialty ____ Kids ____ Wimberley Valley News & Views
Page 12 April 2020
Wimberley Valley News & Views
Page 13 April 2020
Chemotherapy by Tracy Sheffield, RVT
Wimberley2x3.pdf
6/6/07
The two most dreadful words in the English language are often used in the same sentence, cancer and chemotherapy. Both strike the soul with dread and despair. Veterinary oncology has made vast strides in caring for pets diagnosed with cancer. Fortunately, the word chemotherapy does not need to be upsetting. Chemotherapy is the name given to a group of drugs that have the ability to kill cancer cells. The chemotherapy drug recommended depends on many factors including the type of cancer and the general health of the pet. The big question owners have and the reason that many hesitate to use chemotherapy is the fear that it will make their pets sick. No one wants to compromise quality of life for their pet. The good news is that most dogs and cats tolerate chemotherapy much better than human patients. Generally, dogs and cats that receive chemotherapy feel like their usual selves the day of treatment. Chemotherapy may be given either by pill or intravenous injection. Perhaps three to five days later the owner may report that pet isn't quite 100% but within 24 to 48 hours the pet is back to normal. Occasionally, pets may have a strong reaction to chemotherapy and hospitalization with fluid therapy may be needed to help them recover. Hair loss with chemotherapy is generally minor. Cats may lose their whiskers and curly coated breeds such as Airedales and Poodles may lose more hair than their flat-coated counterparts during the early stages of treatment. After each dose of chemotherapy it is important for the owner to communicate with the veterinarian on any side effects the pet may have had and their intensity. Side effects can include gastrointestinal upset that includes vomiting generally seen in that three to five day post treatment window. Other side effects can limit the number of white blood cells made by the body and that can mean increased risk of infections. When you hear the dreaded word cancer, know that you do not have to dread the word chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can extend a pet's life while maintaining a high quality of life. Having an informed conversation with your veterinarian can make all difference for you and your pet.
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Wimberley Office
150 RR 3237, P.O. Box 727 • Wimberley, TX 78676 Office: 512/847-2278 • Fax: 512/847-5131
•Septic Pumping •Cleaning
Tracy Sheffield, RVT works with her husband, Dr. Mike Sheffield, at Wimberley Veterinary Clinic. Wimberley Veterinary Clinic sees all kinds of animals, dogs, cats, horses, birds, pocket pets, reptiles and other exotic animals. Make your boarding reservations online at WimberleyVetClinic. com or call us at 512-847-5630.
•Repairs DRIPPING SPRINGS: 858-2040 BUDA: 312-0002 WIMBERLEY: 847-5070 AUSTIN: 445-5489 LAKE TRAVIS: 263-3993 SAN MARCOS: 396-7070
Wimberley Valley News & Views
847-5630 • 12605 RR 12, Suite 1
Page 14 April 2020
Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country Pending
New Price
16933 RR 12 MLS 7828183 Commercial property 3.4 acre tract,2000 sq ft warehouse w/ office&bathroom. $405,000 Jim Donaldson
22 Pebblebrook Ln. MLS 8656067 Upgraded, Golf Course Views, 4 bdrms/4 baths, 2,851 sq ft. $410,000! Linda Germain
000 Joe Wimberley Blvd MLS 9981986 Commercial 1.169 Acres, Zoned C1 $325,000 Jim Donaldson
8000FM2325 MLS77657482Beautifulhomes on26Acres.Unrestricted.Potentialweddingvenue, brewery,winery. $1,699,900DebbieDonaldson
TBD Lazy L MLS 6798483 Great Blanco River Lot! 2.2 Acres, Views, Pecan trees. $469,000 Alice Lebkuecher
509 Deer Lake MLS 2366138 Adorable 2/2 on 2.8 acres Lone Man Creek waterfront $474,900 Alice Lebkuecher
New Price
New
400 Spoke Hollow MLS 2547804 7.6 acres with 180 Degree Panoramic views. $375,000 Mickey Brown
120 Valley Verde MLS3857761 Adorable 3/2 farmhouse on 3 acres. $575,000 Alice Lebkuecher
New
4 Country Ct. MLS 9248796 Great Somerset Homes New Construction 3/2 $349,900 Alice Lebkuecher
6028 Mustang Valley Trl MLS 7546781 Beautiful 6.54 acre lake lot . Many improvements! $400,000 Alice Lebkuecher
Pending
Sold
2 Rhapsody Ln. MLS 4594910 Nice 4 Bdrm/2 ba, home,corner lot,workshop. $298,000 Linda Germain
400 Skyline Ridge Lookout MLS 3094364 Stunning Long-Distance Views, Custom Home on 4.96 acres! $595,000 Linda Germain
Mickey Brown 512-468-4509
Alice Lebkuecher 713-253-1311
2020 Jacobs Well Rd MLS2393156 Beautiful 3/3 on Cypress Creek! 3.79 acres $1,475,000 Alice Lebkuecher
New
Jim Donaldson 830-857-3371
000 RR 12 MLS 2430528 6.788 Acres. Commercial, Ag Exempt $200,000 Mickey Brown
Debbie Donaldson 512-665-9588
13210 Ranch Rd.12, Ste A, Wimberley, TX
Wimberley Valley News & Views
318 Shady Bluff MLS 1030057 Classified “ Studio Cabin “ lot per restrictions. Level, wooded. $16,000 Alice Lebkuecher
000 Fischer Store Rd MLS8294253 Beautiful 20 Acre tract! Convenient location! $598,000 Jim Donaldson
Linda Germain 512-924-3661
Greg Ward 512-648-7538
WimberleyPartners.com
Page 15 April 2020
REAL PROPERTIES
MAIN OFFICE DIRECT (512) 847-SOLD (7653) • www. AJsTexasHomes.com NEW OFFICE ADDRESS: 160 South River, SOUTH RIVER BUSINESS PARK, WIMBERLEY, TX 78676
NEW
SOLD IN 1 DAY
NEW LISTING
630 SACHTLEBEN RD LUXURY HILL COUNTRY ESTATE ON 10+- ACRES W/LONG DISTANT VIEWS! STUNNING 4/3.5 MAIN ROCK HOUSE, GUEST HOUSE & PARTY BARN $1,795,000
19 SERENADE STUNNING 3/2/2 HOME W/DETACHED 12 X 20 OFFICE/ FLEX ROOM! UPDATED & MOVE-IN READY! PROFESSIONAL XERISCAPE DESIGN LANDSCAPING $311,700
31 CYPRESS POINT MOVE-IN READY, END UNIT TOWN-HOME NEAR GOLF COURSE!COMMUNITY POOL, SUNKEN LIVING W/FIREPLACE! $219,700
13 SERENADE STUNNING 3/2/2 HOME WITH ROCK, WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE! GRANITE COUNTERS! METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED! $309,700
NEW LAND LISTING
AG EXEMPT
SOLD
NEW LISTING
1130 OAKWOOD LOOP SCENIC & PRIVATE 20+/- ACRES OFF RANCH ROAD 12 BETWEEN WIMBERLEY & SAN MARCOS! LOTS OF WILDLIFE! $437,000
4940 COTTONWOOD 64+/- AG EXEMPT ACRES W/STUNNING LONG DISTANT HILL COUNTRY & SUNSET VIEWS! MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS! ELEVATED BUILDING SITES $1,095,000
1850 RED HAWK STUNNING BLANCO RIVER WATERFRONT PROPERTY ON 20+/- AG-WILDLIFE EXEMPT ACRES WITH 1/1 CUSTOM CABIN OVERLOOKING THE RIVER! $1,497,000
12 STONEHOUSE CIRCLE UPDATED & SPACIOUS 4/3/3 HOME ON THE GOLF COURSE! GRAND LIVING ROOM W/ HIGH CEILINGS OVERLOOKING BACK YARD & FAIRWAY! $389,700
LEASED
VIEWS
NEW PRICE
NEW LISTING
WOODCREEK HOME WOODCREEK 3/2/2 HOME FOR LEASE COMING SOON! CALL AJ FOR DETAILS!
OO LEATH HOLLOW LONG DISTANT HILL COUNTRY VIEWS FROM THIS 10.285+/- ACRE TRACT! NO DEED RESTRICTIONS! GREAT OPPORTUNIYY! $360,000
BLANCO RIVER FRONT CUSTOM & UPDATED 4/4/2 HOME OVERLOOKING THE BLANCO RIVER! GATED ENTRY! STUNNING SUNSETS & LONG DISTANT VIEWS! $1,247,000
LOT 4 W. SPOKE HILL HILL COUNTRY VIEWS FROM THIS 2.01+/- ACRE LOT! CITY RESTRICTIONS! GREAT OPPORTUNITY! JUST MINUTES FROM WIMBERLEY & SAN MARCOS $99,700
SOLD
NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
NEW LAND LISTING
501 WATER PARK STUNNING HILL COUNTRY CUSTOM 5/5/4 HOME ON 5.3+/- ACRES HILL COUNTRY & SUNSET VIEWS! BLANCO RIVER ACCESS! $897,000
14 WILSON CIRCLE METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED! MOVE-IN READY! CUSTOM REMODEL! 4/3/2 HOME OVERLOOKING GOLF COURSE! GREAT OPPORTUNITY! $359,700
301 DEER RUN CUSTOM 3/3.5/2 HILL COUNTYR HOME ON 16+/ACRES! WORKSHOP! MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS! BLANCO RIVER ACCESS THRU HOA PARK! $727,000
LOT 11 GARDENIA DR SPECTACULAR HILL COUNTRY SETTING IN ESCONDIDA RANCH! 12.83+/- AG EXEMPT ACRES! GATED ENTRY! PAVED ROADS! LOTS OF WILDLIFE! $359,240
Wimberley Valley News & Views
COMING SOON
Page 16 April 2020