Wimberley Valley News and Views December 2020

Wimberley Valley

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #8 WIMBERLEY, TX 78676 ECRWSS

NEWS & VIEWS Volume 24 Issue 1 • Wimberley, Texas • December 2020 Postal Patron

T he Wimberley Way of Living

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 1

December 2020

Con tra ct I n

Help us provide Christmas for Wimberley kids!

5D ays

Randall Morris & Associates

Please Donate to Gold Santa!

W

Due to COVID-19 we are distributing gift cards this year.

You can drop off your donation at one of the Donation Jars around town or use VENMO.

Melinda Everett, Associated Broker 512-695-5963

Traci Maxwell, Associated Broker 512-393-9996

Zach Adkisson, Sales Associate 512-217-4776

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.

Morris21 Gold Santa, INC. is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN #47-5512157

Contact us today and find out how our experience can work for you!

Kurt Kimmerle

Laura Kilber

Lee Pruden

REALTOR® Associate

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

512.667.8278

512.376.8098

512.771.9463

14500 RR 12

Marti Eveleigh REALTOR®

512.618.1342

Wimberley Mountain Plaza

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Associate

Suite 2

Angel Laughlin

Ann Marie Skunda

April Carver

Barbara Latimer

Betsi Schaefer

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

Broker/Branch Mgr.

REALTOR® Associate

512.217.6938

512.350.1365

512.665.3043

512.557.5257

512.755.3573

Brittany Bailey

Christina Lawson

Jackie Hines

John (J.D.) Payne

Kim Cabler

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

512.648.0858

512.710.5628

512.968.4167

512.412.0897

512.695.8363

Maureen Shanklin

Melody Pruden

Pam Shultz

Sheryl Kelley

Steve Hysinger

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

Broker

512.517.5735

512.773.3168

512.923.3608

512.557.3851

512.461.2865

512.722.3267

HillsofTexasSky.com

Info@HillsofTexasSky.com

Page 2

December 2020

One for the books

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Last New Year’s Eve my husband and I were invited to a fun, dressy party in Austin. There was a dance floor crowded with people celebrating the end of the year and welcoming in the start of a new decade. Someone handed me a funny pair of big glasses whose eyeholes were the zeroes in 2020. I looked at them and thought, “Yes, twenty/twenty vision for the new year.”

I could not have been more mistaken.

I’m not the only person who didn’t see what was coming – the sudden and drastic lifestyle changes, phrases such as “social distancing” and “self-quarantine” instantly entering our lexicon, and the world being challenged by a common foe. So much has happened to each of us this year, so many things in our lives altered, some permanently.

But here we are. And while it was a mighty test for us, we adapted. We learned how to work from home, have happy hours on Zoom with our friends, and appreciate locally-sourced food, if we didn’t already.

Closing out this year and greeting 2021 I will do with high hopes. We grew a lot wiser this year, more aware and nimble. Writing a new year on a page is simply our human way of marking and measuring time. January first resonates with us mentally and emotionally, but practically it is just another day for us to do our best under whatever circumstances are presented.

The beginning of a new year won’t mean our challenges are behind us, but the notion of a fresh start, of seeing 2020 as history, or as my grandmother would say, “one for the books,” can give us hope. That’s what I’m aiming for.

I wish you and yours a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season. Thank you for joining us.

WVNewsViews.com Wimberley Valley News & Views

Publisher Victoria Belue Schaefer Creative Designer Cyle Johnson Ad Design Joey Johnson Cover Kevin Schaefer

Wimberley Valley News and Views, a subsidiary of Pedal Ranch Publications, is mailed monthly to all homes, businesses, and post office boxes in the 78676 zip code.

You can also pick one up from local merchants.

Contact us at info@WVNewsViews.com for information on advertising and submissions.

Wimberley Valley News and Views P.O. Box 91554 Austin, TX 78709 512-709-6935 Visit our website: WVNewsViews.com

Entire contents copyright ©2020. Reproduction of any of this publication requires written permission of publisher. We are not responsible for the products and services advertised or the views contained in this publication.

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December 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 via Zoom at Noon.

For information to join the meeting, 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.

• Mon. Dec. 21, Winter solstice • Fri. Dec. 25, Christmas

Wimberley Valley News & Views • 512-709-6935 • P.O. Box 91554 Austin, Texas 78709 Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 4

December 2020

Adaptation Most of us have had quite enough of what this year had to offer. After a nice rest, I anticipate being ready to look forward to a new and hopeful year. The sun will shine more days than not here in Texas, and our bluebonnets will develop over the winter, ready to delight us next spring as always. It is good to have things on which we can depend.

Nature has adapted to sometimes massive variations in environment, and it is impressive to watch some of the adjustments she can make to thrive under new circumstances. Her wide range of design genius seems nearly inexhaustible.

Our godson Thom wrote his evolutionary biology dissertation on two varieties of nine spined stickleback fish. One lives in saltwater tidal pools and the other in freshwater ponds. It turns out that the difference between them is a single gene in one that is a mirror image of the same gene in the other. An amazing adaptation. Just like Mother Nature to find a solution that is at once simple, elegant, and practical.

My hometown of Alamo is named for the Spanish word for the Poplar trees we call cottonwoods that grow along the Rio Grande there. Another Poplar, the white-barked quaking Aspen, thrives in elevations above 7,000 feet. All thirty-five poplars are adaptations of a single genus, Populus, to different environments.

Our own species has been through millions of changes in our

own evolution. Some were adaptive and helped us progress, while others were not helpful and wound up on the historical scrap heap of failed evolutionary experiments. They are all part of our history.

Our ascent to sentient beings has brought us to a new evolutionary phase in which we can consciously choose the ways we will live and develop, how we will provide for the physical needs of the world’s population, and the paths we will take to use and conserve the resources of our Earth. I am thankful that every day offers us new opportunities to make compassionate and reasonable choices about the destiny of all of humanity.

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.

Free staging with furniture Staging a vacant home can pay great dividends in today’s market. Over ninety percent of buyers today begin their home search online and pictures of empty rooms on the listing are less likely to attract attention. It has been noted by the National Association of Realtors that empty spaces easily reveal their flaws, always seem smaller than they are and seem cold and lifeless. Staging adds warmth and helps buyers envision themselves living in the home. On average a staged home will sell seventy percent faster and for more money than a vacant home.

It is an interesting fact that ninety percent of people cannot picture their furniture in an empty room! With a visual presentation of a space you can demonstrate the potential of a room. By leaving a room vacant you may very well narrow your potential pool of buyers to ten percent of the people viewing your home.

Another interesting fact is that there is a trend toward buyers and investors making offers on homes they have never physically visited based on the photos from the home’s listing on the MLS! The quality of your photos improves greatly when a vacant home is staged with furniture and includes soft staging such as simple décor pieces, rugs, fresh towels and artwork.

Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Tim Thompson

by Jim and Debbie Donaldson

How can we help? Call us for free staging with your listing of a vacant home.

When we stage your vacant home we will include furniture, rugs, art and accessories. We will meet with you and decide the scope of staging which normally includes the living room, dining room, master bedroom and bath.

A staged home with excellent photos will set your house apart and attract potential buyers as they search for their new home.

Jim and Debbie Donaldson are Sales Agents with Keller Williams, Partners in Real Estate Group, in Wimberley. They moved to Wimberley in 1993 and enjoy helping sellers and buyers have an awesome real estate experience. You can reach Jim at 830-8573371 or Jim.Donaldson78@gmail.com or Debbie 512-665-9588 or Debbie.Donaldson79@gmail.com.

Jim and Debbie Donaldson Realtors

830-857-3371 Jim

Partners in Real Estate Group Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

512-665-9588 Debbie

jim.donaldson78@gmail.com

debbie.donaldson79@gmail.com

13210 Ranch Road 12

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December 2020

Pruning in winter Certain types of pruning can be performed on trees any time of year, but winter in Central Texas provides an especially good opportunity. In particular, visibility in deciduous trees is better, and the beetle responsible for vectoring the oak wilt pathogen is less active.

One thing that’s easier to spot in winter concerns structural issues in the canopy. These include conditions such as over-extended branches, same-sized branches originating from a common junction, bark that becomes embedded between two stems that have a common junction, cracks, and cavities. Such conditions suggest that structural stability may be compromised, or it could become so over time. Trees that are pruned properly tend to sustain less damage during storms and windy conditions.

Another problem that’s easier to spot in winter is the presence of mistletoe. This plant is called a “hemiparasite” because it can produce its own food through photosynthesis, but it takes moisture and nutrients from the tree to do so. Although ball moss is not a parasite, it, too, can be easier to spot in winter. Heavy infestations can be controlled through pruning, topical treatments, or a combination of both. Incidentally, winter provides greater opportunities for the ideal weather conditions that make ball moss control more effective.

Finally, winter offers the last opportunity for pruning oak trees before spring, the season that increases risk of oak wilt infection from pruning wounds on live branches. The Texas Forest Services recommends avoiding such pruning from February 1 through June 30. Pruning for safety, line clearance, building clearance, storm damage, dead branch removal, and similar situations may still be performed on oak trees in any season, but professional standards should be observed in the process.

Property owners should be aware that too much foliage removed in a pruning session is not good for trees, nor are flush and stub cuts. For your winter pruning this year, contact an ISA Certified Arborist, who should be able to answer your questions about proper practice.

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-of-the-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.

Get more done in 2021 There were plenty of obstacles this year and we could all use a fresh start in 2021! When you use the following strategies, you can plan for productivity and get back on track for the new year.

1) Make every minute count. Instead of idling when you have some extra time, check some much-needed tasks off your to-do list. You will be surprised at how much you can accomplish when you optimize your down time. TIP: Use time gaps between appointments to organize your desktop or clean up your inbox.

2) Keep your workspace tidy. At work, nearly ninety-one percent of employees say that they would get more done if their workspace was organized. To be more productive in work and life, find an organizational method that works for you. TIP: Minimize desk clutter by organizing reports and random papers into magazine holders. Try to consistently declutter your space one to two times a week.

3) Get laser-focused. Block out distractions when you are in the zone and keep your goals front and center. With your eyes on the prize, you will be more motivated to hustle and get more done during the day. TIP: Write down the top three priorities you must accomplish each day to achieve larger monthly goals.

4) Reset and recharge. In order to commit more of yourself to your work, family, and friends, you need to practice self-care and fill up your own tank first. TIP: Prioritize time to unwind, you might make time for movement, pick up a hobby, take walks in Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Steven Austin

by AJ Harwood

nature, or even schedule some days off.

If you are wondering what your own home would look like on the market, give me a call! I am happy to run a comparative market analysis to see what homes in your neighborhood are going for right now. At the end of the day, real estate is local. I can walk you through what’s going on and how it applies to you in the Wimberley–Texas Hill Country area. If you are thinking of selling, give me a call. Now may be the very best time to sell. I would be honored to help you through the home selling process. Oh, by the way, if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and contact information. I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them in a way that is healthy and safe.

This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes only. Used with permission by the Buffini & Company.

Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES and was recently Ranked as the #1 Top Producer for the First Quarter of 2020 in the RE/MAX system for the Austin Texas area. He 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 office location at 160 South River in the South River Business Park, Wimberley, Texas 78676.

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December 2020

Your modern library A library used to be an old building with walls of books guarded over by some blue-haired, unsmiling matron.

“Shhhh!” she’d say, giving someone the stink-eye over perceived misdeeds.

Well, things have changed. Modern libraries still have stacks of books but all sorts of other resources, too. Patrons today may never touch a book – they’re too busy working online, borrowing DVD’s, or attending classes. Modern libraries are open and airy, designed to enhance relaxation and learning.

And, modern librarians are more fun-loving than the grumpy gals of yore. The sound of laughter is pretty common in our Wimberley library, and the staff is fun and helpful. Volunteers augment the staff and allow our library to offer more services and stay open longer. There is always something happening.

Want to learn (or relearn) a language? How about yoga, or a craft like cake icing? Would your teen enjoy rebuilding a go-cart or learning robotics? Would your little one enjoy a magician or petting a snake? Seniors, do you need info about Medicare or estate planning? All this happens at the library, sometimes all in the same week.

Yeah, you can still check out a book. But, you can also use the in-house computers and wifi, use meeting rooms, fax, scan a

by Dennis Lee

picture, make copies, utilize a notary, read magazines and newspapers, use online databases, download audio books or ebooks, get tax help and join reading clubs.

Most of this is free. Yeah, you must pay for copies and faxes, or to borrow a book from another library. But most services are paid for by a tiny part of local sales taxes. So, if someone eats or shops locally, they are helping support our library.

Wealth, ethnicity, religion, race, politics are all irrelevant here.

We’re all welcome and can find something to educate or entertain.

Come use your library and support its growth. You won’t get the stink-eye. We promise.

Dennis Lee is a 26-year resident of Wimberley, volunteers at the Circulation Desk, serves as an officer of the Friends and the Foundation, and is on the Building Committee for library expansion.

Time to start the ball rolling Happy December to all of you!

Too many days of triple digit highs left many of our gardens, whether vegetable or landscaped areas, needing more shade and a lot more water. We were all scratching our heads, wondering what to do. Keeping all of this in mind, the upside is it allowed us to rethink our spaces.

Fall is a great time to address issues concerning hardscapes as well as some easy-to-install drip irrigation for those perennial and evergreen areas. It’s also a good time to look into plunking down some hard-earned money on shade trees which accomplish a few things; providing shade, home to birds and allowing for areas that aren’t beaten to death by the sun’s rays are just a few. Changing out plants that are too needy to those more native and adaptive to our area also can give you the same look you strive for without breaking the bank when it comes to maintenance as well as water.

I like to think of our climate as having mostly two seasons.

Maybe you only need weeding and cutting back twice a year. This helps save money to be used on other outdoor things. Patios, dry creeks and fire pits allow us to remove some of that grass and still create a usable space. All of those things can be tucked into a drainage plan that no one knows has been addressed but you! In assessing what worked and what didn’t, it’s also a time to check on yourself.

Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Lindley Pond

Do you want to spend more time doing maintenance or are you more content to enjoy your space? By starting with a plan, or list, we can figure out what will and won’t work for you. It’s a great time to start the ball rolling and budget what you need and want where.

We only do one project at a time, so we can focus on you and your wants. We are here if you want to visit about what makes your outdoor space enjoyable to you. Happy fall to you all. In the words of the Dalai Lama – there are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe, do and mostly live!

We’re here to help fulfill your “outside dreams.” Call us for a free POND FONT: Frederika The Great is owner of Lindley Pond consultationLINDLEY and design.

Lindley Pond LANDSCAPING FONT: Avenir Book Landscaping. We’ve been helping folks in Central Texas for over PURPLE: PMS 2082 15 years. Give usPMS a 7473 call for design and installation of your new GREEN: “lawn” at 512-775-1629.

P: 512.775.1629 W: lindleypond.com E: lindleypond171@gmail.com

Page 7

December 2020

Simplicity is not too much to ask

by Randy Lawrence 840 E. Summit Drive Wimberley, Texas 78676

512.847.0630

www.HackettFinancialGroup.com Scott@HackettFinancialGroup.com

Custodian Services with

120 Joe Wimberley Blvd.

Suite 106 Wimberley Pharmacy Building

Steven E Austin

Arborist Representative ISA Certified Arborist #TX-3616AT

1324 Old Martindale Road, San Marcos, TX 78666

bartlett.com SAustin@bartlett.com p 512.392.1089 f 512.392.7398

CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

Beat The Heat... Solara& Complete Cellular Shades •line The best for our Texas heat!

Now Offering of insulation Custom Draperies!

Beautiful new–Window • Save energy Stay coolTreatments, Blinds, Shutters, • Great colors, styles, and prices Woven Woods, Cellular Shades and More.

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Free estimates

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MadeintheShadeof Wimberley.com

Depending upon the quality of your water supply, water treatment systems can range in size from compact units designed to be tucked away in a small closet to multiple pieces of equipment requiring a large area. Often a system will have been modified over time with plumbing repairs and the addition or replacement of equipment. In many cases, these modifications are done in a way which makes the installer’s job as easy as possible.

Simply connecting a brand new softener to an existing maze of old pipe or running unsupported pipes at odd angles to connect a new piece of equipment are examples of shortcuts which demonstrate a lack of concern for the finished product. The result is a pieced together system which makes access for service difficult, and typically takes up far more space than necessary.

While the operation of the equipment and the product water quality are the most pressing concerns, it is almost as important that the system be simple and streamlined to eliminate problems when the need arises for maintenance or service. When discussing the work to be performed, you should address any concerns you may have about the current system and clarify the scope of work to be done. If a piece of equipment is to be replaced, ask how the new connections will be made. Also, be sure to ask what will happen to the old unit. Many times, the equipment will be simply left in the immediate area for the homeowner to dispose of. Obviously, it affects the equipment dealer’s bottom line to perform work beyond a simple cut and paste installation, but it’s reasonable to expect your water system to be carefully planned and installed in a userfriendly and space efficient manner.

It usually takes a little more time, and a few additional fittings, but when the technician puts forth the extra effort to simplify the system, it can make a world of difference. If you’re concerned about the treatment equipment you currently have, a trained and licensed professional can suggest ways to improve the layout, performance and overall efficiency of your system.

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

&

integrity

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

Page 8

December 2020

There is no retirement If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it. My neighbor said this to me a couple of weeks ago, and it has stuck. He was disappointed that a friend had decided to stop doing something they had enjoyed together. It had just gotten too hard. He knew from experience that his friend was going to lose even the option to do it pretty quickly. He knew he was watching his friend lose the ability altogether.

If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.

Biomechanically, stopping is the worse thing somebody can do.

Just look at what happens when you put an arm in a cast. Rest, adjust, break it down into pieces you can work with – anything is better than stopping.

The funny thing is that in my school, the seniors aren’t just “not stopping.” They are improving. They are getting stronger. They become more able with time, not less. Seniors are perfectly able to get better and feel better than they did when they were younger.

And with time, that is just a way of life.

So whatever it is, keep going! We’ve had to keep going by offering outdoor and online classes in addition to our now very careful indoor classes. We didn’t just stop. We didn’t try to keep doing

by Sarah Geenberg

things the same old way. We had to adjust. Because if we didn’t we would have lost it altogether.

Sarah is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio and is now also the owner of WimberleyYogaTV.com. The school offers indoor, outdoor and online classes. They are particularly proud of the Seniors they serve in karate, Tai Chi, and yoga for finding a way to thrive this year. Also, the kids... They are going through more than we know right now.

Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio Sarah Geenberg (512) 971-8528 501 Old Kyle Road Wimberley, TX 78676 WimberleyKarateAndYogaStudio.com

Easing dental-related anxiety Going to the dentist can cause anxiety, and that's a normal reaction. It's estimated that between fifteen to forty percent of people are affected by dental anxiety. This often leads to unnecessary oral health problems as a result of avoidance behavior, which can ultimately lead to more time spent in the dental chair to receive more extensive and potentially costly treatment.

There are many causes of dental anxiety: • The fear of pain • Feeling embarrassed about the condition of your teeth • Recalling you own past experiences or the experiences of your family and friends • The fear of needles, drills, and gagging • Anticipating costly and/or extensive treatment Please come talk with me at San Marcos Gentle Dental, I can help dispel any negative or frightening perceptions you may have.

Having an understanding of your dental health and the dental services or treatment you may need will help to relieve dental anxiety.

Make sure to avoid caffeine and sugar before a dental appointment; they may make you anxious. Focus on relaxing, breathe regularly and slowly during any procedure. When you are nervous you tend to hold your breath, which decreases oxygen levels and further increases feelings of panic.

Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Robert Donnelly, DDS

Prior to any dental treatment we can discuss options of sedation. There are different types of sedation methods. The most common would be breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (laughing gas), and taking a medication by mouth. Sedation will make you feel more relaxed and even sleepy. We offer a comforting environment including headphones with a variety of music options to choose from, large windows overlooking a bird haven and a staff that cater to our patients needs.

If you or someone you know suffers from dental anxiety, please contact us at 512-396-5225 so we can help you take the needed steps to get a healthy mouth and smile... and get rid of dental anxiety once and for all. Come see why Dr. Donnelly was voted a Texas Super Dentist by Texas Monthly Magazine and Best Dentist in Hays County!

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

Page 9

December 2020

Aestheticians and dermatologists: Similarities and differences

by Karen Laine, Para-Medical Aesthetician Are you curious what sets aestheti- these treatments. cians apart from dermatologists? Both Only dermatologists can perform medical treatments and write understand and address skin conditions prescriptions. A dermatologist must perform biopsies, and any and are experts on the science of skin. type of surgical removal. Dermatologists perform skin cancer and Dermatologists are medical doctors with mole checks and can prescribe medications for skin diseases. specialized training and experience in Aestheticians focus more on holistic well-being. Most dermaskin, hair, and nail conditions. Aestheti- tologists work in a clinical setting set up for medical procedures cians, on the other hand, are trained, li- rather than relaxation. In contrast, most aestheticians create soothcensed skin care professionals. ing environments that promote tranquility. Although a generalizaBoth aestheticians and dermatolo- tion, many dermatologists will look for clinical or pharmaceutical gists analyze skin conditions, suggest approaches and products strategies, whereas most aestheticians will focus on holistic wellfor addressing concerns, and perform treatments to promote and ness and how lifestyle, nutrition, skin care routines and products, maintain healthy skin. affect the skin’s appearance. Aestheticians may be more knowlAestheticians and dermatologist perform a variety of non-inva- edgeable about skin care trends, the mind-body connection, hosive procedures. Common concerns include signs of aging and sun listic health, and organic skin care products. Dermatologists may damage, acne, rosacea, and overly dry/oily skin. These conditions also be current on these topics, but their focus is likely to be on the can be identified and remedied by either an aesthetician or a der- clinical presentation of skin conditions. matologist. When meeting a client for the first time, an aesthetician Skincare provider choices are personal. Just as every person’s will conduct a skin analysis, which identifies positive attributes skin is unique, so is their approach to maintaining healthy skin. about skin types and conditions, areas in need of improvement, Considerations include the extent of treatment or care that is and suggestions for treatments, products, and skin care regimens. needed, the range of desired strategies for healthy skin, the type Aestheticians perform a range of skin treatments including fa- of products recommended, and the environment in which skin care cials, extractions, chemical exfoliation (peels), and microderm- is provided. abrasion. Treatments are tailored to a client’s skin type and con- Karen Laine is a para-medical aesthetician and makeup artist with dition. Dry patches, age spots, dull skin, and clogged pores each 23 years experience. Contact her at 512-847-8052. Her office is require a different approach. A dermatologist can also provide located at 14500 Ranch Road 12, suite 20, in Wimberley.

Fancy footwork If you read this column occasionally, you may know that I love Galveston. I love staying at the Galvez and, this last time, we decided to visit their excellent spa. Rhonda is perfectly okay with the spa experience but I find it a little awkward. I am kind of weird about massage because someone is essentially smashing around on all my fat and trying to find a muscle, but I thought a pedicure might be okay because my feet, at least, aren’t fat. Just as long as they didn’t paint the nails. So, I sat in the chair and carefully took off my shoes. I can’t really explain the look on the technician’s face but she knew immediately she was looking at 63 years of pedal neglect. “So, this is your first pedicure, I see,” she said. I knew then that we weren’t going to worry about getting around to painting the toenails. She was going to be busy with the die-grinder and the belt sander getting rid of the calluses. Good thing we were already wearing masks because there was quickly a cloud of foot callus dust. She had to open the window. Bypassers were choking on the street. A couple of burnt-out sanding discs and a ruined cheese grater later, and she told me time’s up. Apparently, it’s going to take several treatments to get baby soft feet.

One of the most difficult chores we have at the ranch is alpaca foot care. And it’s important. Alpacas have padded feet, kind of like a dog or cat. Where there would be claws, they have pointed toenails. They don’t have a hoof. These toenails keep growing beWimberley Valley News & Views

by Kern Deschner

cause, in the Altiplano, they wear them down. In our relatively soft Central Texas, the nails just keep growing. They can become so twisted that the alpaca can’t walk correctly so they have to be trimmed. Regularly. Of course, alpacas don’t like having their feet messed with. They can’t see what’s going on down there and presume it is a snake or something messing with their foot. This is usually when we do find out that alpacas can, when provoked, spit prodigiously. They are not at their most cuddly when you are trimming their feet. Usually we delay this chore as long as possible for shearing season in April because that is when we will have them restrained and the spit contained. Toenail trimming on those days becomes my responsibility and my forearm ends up pretty sore from trimming hundreds of thick toenails. However, Rhonda and Jenny have to do this at other times during the year because we can’t go to shows with bad toenails. Like people, I suppose, you can learn a lot about a ranch by the condition of the alpaca’s toenails.

I will be trimming away first weekend of April. I’ve never considered choosing a nail color but that might be an interesting concept next year during shearing. I wonder what Rhonda would say?

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 10 December 2020

Year-end 2020 tax tips Defer income to next year: Consider opportunities to defer income to 2021, particularly if you think you may be in a lower tax bracket then.

Accelerate deductions: Look for opportunities to accelerate deductions into the current tax year. If you itemize deductions, making payments for deductible expenses such as medical expenses, qualifying interest, and state taxes before the end of the year could make a difference on your 2020 return.

Make deductible charitable contributions: If you itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can generally deduct charitable contributions, but the deduction is limited to sixty percent, thirty percent, or twenty percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI), depending on the type of property that you give and the type of organization to which you contribute.

Bump up withholding: If it looks as though you're going to owe federal income tax for the year, consider increasing your withholding on Form W-4 for the remainder of the year to cover the shortfall.

Maximize retirement savings: Deductible contributions to a traditional IRA and pre-tax con-

tributions to an employer-sponsored retirement plan such as a 401(k) can reduce your 2020 taxable income. If you haven't already contributed up to the maximum amount allowed, consider doing so. For 2020, you can contribute up to $19,500 to a 401(k) plan ($26,000 if you're age 50 or older) and up to $6,000 to traditional and Roth IRAs combined ($7,000 if you're age 50 or older).

Avoid RMDs in 2020: Normally, once you reach age 70½ you generally must start taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans. However, recent legislation has waived RMDs from IRAs and most employer retirement plans for 2020 and you don't have to take such distributions.

Weigh year-end investment moves: Though you shouldn't let tax considerations drive your investment decisions, it's worth considering the tax implications of any year-end investment moves. Any losses above the amount of your gains can be used to offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income ($1,500 if your filing status is married filing separately) or carried forward to reduce your taxes in future years.

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.

Litigation: Politics and judges As I prepare to leave my office for the evening, I am considering my day tomorrow – Election Day 2020. I will spend 13 hours as a poll watcher. I will observe as my fellow Americans exercise the right to vote. Over the past months you have likely been as concerned, frustrated, and sometimes mystified as I have about the role of the courts in politics and the role of politics in the courts. I offer no great insights or solutions but will share some random thoughts.

We are blessed to be the beneficiaries of a tripartite system of government in which the courts play a pivotal role. Our federal and state constitutions were hammered out by visionaries who recognized that a society can only function when people of good will seek the common good and compromise to reach a consensus.

(Caveat: I am neither blind to the rather elitist viewpoint of many of the framers, nor to their blind spots, but neither do I believe they were as unwilling to compromise for the common good as contemporary politicians seem to be.) Our courts are a product of that process and, by and large, serve their purpose of resolving disputes quite well. In Texas we elect our judges while our federal judges are appointed to lifetime appointments. Each system has benefits and drawbacks which we’ll not address here. Whether elected directly or appointed and confirmed by those we elect, judges are Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Scott G. Hackett, CFP®

by Roland Brown

necessarily affected by politics. It seems to me that the courts have increasingly become a battleground where our polarized political system meets almost daily seeking to gain political advantage for one party or another. Frankly, given the number of disputes, the vitriol, and the timing of the filing of some of these cases, my complaints about the outcomes are less than one might expect. I will wrap up with a thought and will likely expand on these thoughts soon in my blog at www.your-personal-injury-lawyer.law. My hope is that all of us will urge our elected leaders, whomever they may be, to abandon the winner takes all mentality that has put out courts in the position they are in, and insist on having all three branches of government doing the work of all the people to secure to each of us the greatest possible measure of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

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.

Practice Area • Personal Injury 512-847-2500

Visit us at RolandsLaw.com

Page 11 December 2020

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Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 12 December 2020

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(512) 288-8488 danielstoneandlandscaping.com Page 13 December 2020

Cloning

by Tracy Sheffield, RVT

Wimberley2x3.pdf

6/6/07

Fantasy or fact?

It's a favorite topic of Hollywood.

Man, beast or alien, Hollywood has cloned them all. Without cloning there would be no Jurassic Park.

Without cloning Star Wars, Episode II Attack of the Clones wouldn't exist. Film critics to this day debate whether or not that would be a good thing.

In 1996, Dolly, the cloned sheep was born and ever since cloning animals has had a place in the national consciousness. Champion barrel racer Charmayne James had her gelding, Scamper, cloned. The resulting offspring, Clayton, is now passing on Scampers winning genetics to his offspring.

What does this mean for the ordinary pet owner? For many of us the thought of life without our beloved pet is intolerable. Is cloning an option? Should it be pursued?

It helps to first understand the cloning process. Genetic preservation is where the process starts. Tissue samples are taken by your veterinarian and then they are sent to the cloning lab. The cells are cultured to be sure they will be usable for cloning. Then the cloning process can continue or, if desired, they are cryopreserved (frozen) for use at a later time.

The genetic preservation portion of the process can be done for about ten percent of the total cost of cloning. People can choose to take the cloning process just to this point and decide at a later time (if desire and finances permit) if they want to complete the cloning process.

The actual cloning process is the second step. The genetic material of the donor egg is replaced with the preserved genetics of the animal to be cloned. The cloned embryo is then transferred to a surrogate mother and that is followed by a normal pregnancy and birth.

A cloned animal may or may not look exactly like the donor animal. Small differences such as different markings may occur due to epigenetic factors. The environment does interact with genetics to impact many traits such as personality and behavior.

Talk with your veterinarian about cloning. They will be able to give detailed answers on what the process entails.

5:36:10 PM

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Wimberley Office

150 RR 3237, P.O. Box 727 • Wimberley, TX 78676 Office: 512/847-2278 • Fax: 512/847-5131

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.

•Septic Pumping •Cleaning •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 December 2020

Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country New

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13210 R anc h &RViews d.1 2 , St e A, Wimberley, TX WimberleyPar tn er s .2020 co m Wimberley Valley News Page 15 December

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Wimberley Valley News & Views

PENDING

Page 16 December 2020