Wimberley Valley News & Views - Vol. 28 Issue 3 - March 2025
POSTAL PATRON
Editor
Publisher
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson
Creative Director
Nico Johnson
Cover Jane Silva
The Wimberley Valley News & Views, a subsidiary of Valentino Publications, is mailed monthly to all street addresses serviced by the Wimberley Post Office in 78676.
“REALIZE DEEPLY THAT THE PRESENT MOMENT IS ALL YOU EVER HAVE. MAKE THE NOW THE PRIMARY FOCUS OF YOUR LIFE.” – ECKHART TOLLE
There’s a song by The Head and the Heart called “Let’s Be Still” that I have played so often over the last few months that my husband and my seven-year-old son both intervened. It’s a beautiful, mellow ballad but I think what I love the most about it is the reminder to just – for a moment –let’s be still.
I tend to use a lot of quotes here on the publisher’s page. The reason must be that we all seem to feel similarly about general facets of life and each have a different way of illuminating the nuances with our words. So here’s another quote by Ferris Bueller that succinctly illustrates my current headspace, “Life moves pretty fast, if
you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
I spent the last nine months growing the baby girl I have dreamt about, prayed for, and shed unnecessary anguish over wondering if she’d ever come to be. And while I enjoyed every moment of my pregnancy, I kept very busy and time just evaporated. Last week, as my husband, son, and I drove up Mopac under the dark 4:30am curtain of stillness, headed for St. David’s North maternity wing, I played “Let’s Be Still”. No one said a word as we traversed the empty road, floating in the gentle in-between of a family of three and a family of four.
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson, Editor
WIMBERLEY VALLEY COMMUNITY CALENDAR
• Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Apron Society meets at Emily Ann Annex Bldg. Set-up at 5:30, program 6-8pm. Exchange ideas on healthy sustainable lifestyles, gardening, cooking, homesteading. See Facebook page for more.
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW Hall, 401 Jacobs Well Road, 7pm, 6:30pm Clover Kids
• 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, general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program. Paulwilj99@gmail.com.
• Every 2nd & 4th Monday, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at 7pm, Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325 (3rd door from the right). For more info, call or text Aida, 512-787-8313.
• Mon. March 10, Jacob’s Well Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Emily Ann Theater in Wimberley at 9:40am, for chat time and 10am for our business meeting. JacobsWellNSDAR@gmail.com
• Mon. Toddler Time, Wimberley Village Library, 10:30-11:30am
• Every Mon. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer 512 644 4198, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Tues. & Fri. 9am-noon, 42 Dominoes at Wimberley Senior Center (inside Community Center). Contact joan1950@gmail.com.
• Every Tues. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 6pm, Wimb. Community Center ($10)
• Every Tues. 6:30pm, Celebrate Recovery with an option for dinner served at 6pm. Calvary Baptist Church, San Marcos. Contact Celebrate Recovery Leadership Team, 512-426-3758.
• Every Tues. Bilingual Spanish Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Library
• Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, an interdenominational Bible study. Men, women, Co-Ed, Spanish, Youth & Children. Register at SanMarcosEve.CBSClass.org
• Every 3rd Tues. The Lions Club meets from 6pm-8pm at the Wimberley Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info.
• Every Tues. at noon, Rotary Club meets at Wimberley Library. Ermias K. Gebremeskel is president, 512 210 6966, Ketema_Ermias@yahoo.com
• Every 1st Tue. The Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical checks 9:3010:30am. Call 512-847-2510.
• Every 1st Wed. Transforming Stress: Unique Approach to Calm Body, Mind, Emotions, Friends Meeting Room, 6-7:30pm, contact Dr. Marianne Calvanese, ND for more information, 512 663 1820.
• Every Wed. Stroller Barre workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or email SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every 1st Wed. 5:30-7pm, Wimberley Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance mixer at Middleton Brewing. All are welcome. WimberleyArts.org.
• Every Wed. Spanish for Homeschool Teens, 12:30-1:30pm, Wimberley Library, multipurpose room, 7th grade and up
• Every 1st Thurs. Wimberley Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Wimberley Cafe for networking opportunities, 8-9am. Bring business cards.
• Every 3rd Wed. Sept.-May, Hill Country Unit of the Herb Society of America, Emily Ann meeting room. Visitors welcome! Refreshments 9:30am, program at 10am. Contact Valentine_Lisa@msn.com. March presentation: Bee Friendly Trails by JR Jones & Cindy Bruchmiller
• Every 1st Thur. Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group, 12:30pm at the Presbyterian Church Library FM 2325. Contact Linda at 512-924-3661.
• Every Thurs. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 12pm, Community Center ($10)
• Every 2nd Thursday, Hill Country Bead Society meets at 1pm at the Wimberley Community Center. All levels and types of beading and metal work. Marilyn Pierce at 512-722-3549.
• Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club, First Baptist Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway. Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership. Contact Amy, amy@texiasllc.com.
• Every 3rd Thur. Concerts at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, 7:30pm; $25 adults, $5 kids. Pie, pizza, tamales, coffee, soft drinks . RR 12 & CR 1492 (United Methodist Church.) WimberleyUMC.org Barnabas Connection & Mother’s Day Out scholarships. Thurs. March 20: Susan Gibson
• Every Thurs. Gentle Yoga 10-11am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Thursday, Master Gardeners at the Library, 2-5pm
• Every Fri. Wimberley VFW Post 6441 bingo nights. Doors 6:30pm with food concession. Earlybird 7:00pm. Regular 8pm. VFW6441.com/bingo
• Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or smwimberleyds@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides Playdate with Kids Craft Fridays, 10am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimb. Village Library
• Every 4th Friday, Art Crawl, 5-8pm, 5 Wimberley galleries open late, guest artists, refreshments. GalleryTrail.com/ArtCrawl
• 1st Sat. Wimberley Market Day, 7am-3pm, rain or shine
• Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten galleries for art, food, fun, 4-7pm. Email BentTreeGallery@gmail.com. Have a glass of wine & enjoy art after hours.
• Every 3rd Sat. Art Bazaar, Wimberley Valley Winery noon-6pm
• 1st Sun. of every month, Coffee & Cars, 8am-11am, at Blanco Brew
• Saturday, March 15, 1-3pm. Big Band on the Square, Willow Lake Watering Hole, 110 Old Kyle Road, Wimberley
Live Long and Prosper
Understanding the longevity of the trees around us is important for several reasons. Firstly, trees are vital components of our ecosystem, providing oxygen, improving air quality, conserving water, preserving and building soil, and supporting wildlife. Knowing the lifespan of different tree species helps in planning and maintaining green spaces, whether they are around our own homes, in urban parks, or forests.
Moreover, the length of a tree's life influences its growth pattern, reproductive cycle, and ecological interactions. Long-lived trees such as oaks and Ashe junipers offer stability and continuity to their environment, fostering a complex web of life that can endure for centuries. Conversely, shorter-lived species like Mexican plum, Texas mountain laurel, and Texas persimmon play a role in rapid ecological succession, contributing to the energy and resilience of their habitats.
For us homeowners and gardeners, knowing how long a tree is likely to live can help in making informed decisions about tree selection, placement, and care. It allows for the creation of enduring landscapes that can be enjoyed for decades, even as they live as testaments to the lives we live alongside them.
Trees can often become adopted members of our families. Upon moving here, our preschoolers began naming favorite areas at our place. Cedar Tree Hill was named after a juvenile cedar shaped like
by Kern Deschner
a Christmas tree that we decorated each year until it got too big to reach the upper branches.
When a beachcombing trip to Port A yielded a washed-up shrimp boat mat
by Tim Thompson
sewn from a coil of heavy rope, a big live oak in our yard became The Swing Tree. The U Tree was an oddly shaped Cedar Elm that grew in the woods near our property line, and the kids made up a song about it that sounded like a Sesame Street song dedicated to the letter U.
Today, we enjoy the shade and beauty of the first tree we planted here, now a forty-foot Sierra Oak growing just outside our bedroom. How have the trees in your life become actively contributing members of your family?
Horticulturist Tim Thompson managed the garden center at King Feed for over 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 King Feed at 512 847 2618.
I Get Knocked Down
This is going to sound silly but there is a song entitled “Tubthumping” released in 1997 by a band named Chumbawamba. The chorus repeats, “I get knocked down, but I get up again. You’re never gonna keep me ````
down.” Some of you who recognize this song are humming it now! It is very catchy!
Getting back up again is an important sentiment and you never know when the opportunity will turn up. I was in Wimberley Glassworks buying their annual Christmas ornament, when Tim DeJong, the owner, showed me a gorgeous blue vase – the color of the sea – that he had illuminated from the top. It had a reticulated gold pattern on the outside and it cast that pattern onto the white wood beneath. The glass vase had a name, The Waters Edge, and I had already decided to buy it when Tim told me its story.
Tim’s brother lives in the San Juan Islands in Washington state and, sadly, had recently lost his wife. He was devastated. Tim thought he should check in on his brother about eight weeks later and found that the house was a mess, he had not been eating, and he was very depressed. There was not much conversation. To pass the time, the two of them went for mostly-silent walks on the rocky beach. On the last day that Tim was there, he noticed how – periodically – a wave would slide up on the pebbles, make
them shiny-wet, and suddenly became a thousand tiny mirrors. He told his brother to look down and see his reflection in all those thousands of rocks. He suggested that these thousand different views of yourself symbolized the thousand things that you still could become in your life. Tim hoped that moment of revelation helped.
A year later, this brother was working with orphanages in Uganda and had found new purpose in life. The glass vase that Tim designed was in memory of that walk on the beach. Tim’s brother got knocked down, but he got up again.
It would be misleading to tell you that everything we do at the ranch is a success. We have long-anticipated babies that are stillborn, prize-winning females that can’t conceive, and a very unlucky show-ring alpaca handler... me. I always seem to get the gate as they say – get dismissed by the judge. Generally it is because of my lack of show ring ability and not the faults in the alpaca. That is why I try not to show the alpacas myself unless there is no one else to present. So, I get the walk of shame out of the show ring and I get knocked down. But I get up again when I see the alpaca that Rhonda is showing getting a blue ribbon.
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 512 753 9962, or at tierra@alpacausa.com.
The Low Spot is Temporary
I believe one of the most beneficial things we learn in karate is seven times down, eight times up. We even wear a patch that symbolizes the saying. It is the root from which our practice grows.
It is also the root of growth for a successful yoga or Tai Chi practice. In fact, it can be the root of growth for accomplishing any endeavor. Never give up is another form of the saying, but it does not tell you how. Seven times down, eight times up tells us to just get up and try again. It also says that falling down is expected. I think getting good at getting back up is the essential skill of life.
The act of getting up requires something. You can’t just repeat your failure. The act of getting up is recognition that part of what you did worked, and part of what you tried failed. It is time to make an adjustment and try again.
The saying also implies that you have to take action again and again.
In this day, we are lured into receiving a lot of information. That information can easily drown out our own voice. It makes it easy
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
to sit back, receive information, and think we are doing something. Taking action is forgetting all of that and generating our own output over and over again. The cool part is that taking action again and again gets easier over time. Every action builds on the last, no matter the `````
by Sarah Geenberg
outcome of the previous action. Momentum starts to carry the day. Living with this saying for over 35 years has taught me that getting upset when I fall is a waste of time. I’m going to get back up, so I can often skip the upset and start looking at how to try again.
Sarah is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio, near Blue Hole, and OnlineSeniorsYoga.com. The yoga, Tai Chi, and karate classes are building again. Classes are offered indoors, outdoors, and online. Feel free to come check us out.
Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio
Sarah Geenberg (512) 971-8528
501 Old Kyle Road
Wimberley, TX 78676 WimberleyKarateYoga.com
Achieve a Natural Smile with T ooth-Colored Fillings
In many cases, when people have any work on themselves done they would like for the results to look as natural as possible. Whether it’s our hair, nails or some sort of cosmetic procedure, we may not want to
look completely different but simply a better version of ourselves. Many people have that same mentality when it comes to their dental work. In cases such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and the like our patients like to look as natural as possible. When it comes to fillings, you may find it difficult to feel secure in your smile if you have metal in it. Dr. Donnelly understands the importance of wanting to have a beautiful smile and is able to give his patients what they want using tooth-colored fillings. With tooth-colored fillings, your smile is able to look brand new, natural and beautiful. Metal fillings, or amalgam fillings, can be toxic to our bodies as well as unappealing to the eye. Toothcolored fillings are more durable than amalgam fillings and they are able to match your existing smile exactly. Amalgam fillings can change shape depending on the temperature of your mouth, which leaves the possibility of expansion, cracking your tooth and inviting bacteria to make your smile its new home. The composite resin we use to make your tooth-colored fillings are more flexible and effectively adhere to your tooth.
These are only a few of the many benefits of tooth-colored fillings. Investigate all the reasons with a dentist you trust knows how to bring out the best in your smile. It can make all the difference.
If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about maintaining oral hygiene, Dr. Donnelly is here to help you. You can contact San Marcos Gentle Dental by calling 512 396 5225 where we will be happy to get you scheduled. 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, Texas 78666
512 396 5225
Fax: 512 396 7022
SanMarcosDental.com
The Attack on Our Water
I think we can all agree that we should not have to worry about what contaminants might be in our water and how harmful they could be to our health. Did you know that there is a federal law called The Safe Drinking Water Act? It protects the quality of water in the United States and was passed in 1974. The SDWA gives the Environmental Protection Agency the power to set national standards for drinking water. The SDWA and the EPA have done some great things to drastically improve the safety and quality of drinking water, however there is still a lot of room for improvement.
The Environmental Working Group is an organization that conducts research on contaminants along with harmful agricultural and industrial practices that pose a risk to our health and our environment since 1993. The EWG completed a three year study and found that water flowing to 85% of the population contained 316 contaminants. Of these contaminants 60% of these have no safety standards and are not regulated by the EPA. The EPA only regulates approximately 90 contaminants and legal limits for contaminants in tap water have not been updated in almost 20 years. Therefore, a municipal water district that receives a passing grade from the federal government could still be higher than the latest health guidelines. The four types of contaminants that can be found in municipal water systems are as follows:
Physical contaminants change the appearance of the water and may cause it to look cloudy. These may be present in the form of sand, dust, dirt, sediment, or other organic material.
Chemical contaminants can be man made or natural. The most common chemical found in water is chlorine or chloramines, which is added to the water during treatment for disinfection. Pesticides and herbicides can also be
by Betsy & Rance Mosley
found in water due to surface run-off and may not be adequately removed during treatment. It’s also increasingly common to find traces of pharmaceuticals in water as well. Biological contaminants can be common in private well sources and municipal water systems. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and protozoan can make their way into water traveling through the pipes and cause serious health risks. Radiological contaminants are the least common but have been found in small quantities in different parts of the country. These are uranium, cesium, plutonium, and radon. Long-term exposure poses the most dangerous health effects. Our most precious resource is not as safe because of all these contaminants. It pays to do your research and source water that has gone through an extensive filtration process.
Rance & Betsy Mosley are the owners of Blue Jug of Wimberley and My Wimberley Office Space. Rance retired from teaching after 28 years & now manages and operates Blue Jug while Betsy teaches at Blue Hole Primary. Stop by & try the best tasting water in the Hill Country. Located at 14201 Ranch Road 12, Suite 1. Contact us at 512 387 1001 or email Rance@bluejug.com.
Homestead Exemption
What is a Homestead Exemption? Homestead exemptions are granted by the county appraisal district where the property is located. The exemption reduces a homeowner's property tax bill by removing part of the home's value from taxation. All Texas homeowners may receive a general residence homestead exemption on the value of their property for school taxes upon application. Other taxing entities may also offer exemptions of some percentage of the home’s value. Other exemptions are available to homeowners who are over 65 or disabled and require the same application process.
Who qualifies? These requirements must be met to receive the exemption: You must own your home before for which you are applying. No longer do you have to own your home as of January 1 of the year you are applying. You must reside at the home as your principal residence and not claim any other property as your homestead. Only individual homeowners (not corporations or other entities) may receive a homestead exemption. A homestead can be a house, condominium, or a manufactured home. It can include up to 20 acres, if the land is also owned by the homeowner and used as a yard or for another purpose related to the residential use of the home.
How to apply for a Homestead Exemption? Your Homestead Exemption will be denied unless all of the required documents
..........
show the same homestead address. First, fill out the application specific to your county appraisal district, then mail/email all of the documents to the appraisal district for your county.
Go to your county's appraisal district website and download the Residence
by Alice Lebkuecher
``````````` Homestead Exemption Application (Form 50-114). Include a copy of your driver’s license or identification card. Your driver’s license needs to be from the Texas Department of Public Safety (TX DPS) and the address must match the homestead address. Application deadlines: You are to file the completed application with all required documentation once you have closed on your home. If you qualify for the age 65 or older or disabled persons exemption or the exemption for donated homesteads of partially disabled veterans, you are to apply for the exemption no later than the first anniversary of the date you qualify for the exemption.
Alice Gumbert Lebkuecher is a sales agent with Keller Williams Realty, Partners in Real Estate, in Wimberley. She works with both buyers and sellers in Wimberley and surrounding areas. To contact her, call her cell at 713 253 1311 or by email at AliceinWimberley@gmail.com.
Boost
Finances: Blast Past Financial Headwinds
Consult a qualified financial professional. If you have any questions, I’m here to help. I can also refer you to a financial professional if you need further guidance.
by AJ Harwood
For many, spring is tax season – a perfect time to evaluate your overall financial
health. Use this opportunity to refine your budget and set yourself up for financial success for the rest of this year and many more. What will spark momentum and power you forward? For me, it was learning about the Rule of 72 in college. Start by thinking about these items and commit. Make a promise to yourself and your family – you can do this!
Establish short and long-term goals.
Build a long-term financial strategy with steps you can act on today.
Reduce unnecessary expenses.
Impulse buys and unused subscriptions
Assess. Track all monthly expenses including scheduled payments (e.g., mortgage) and miscellaneous expenses.
Create a budget.
Check out online budgeting tools like YNAB.com, GoodBudget.com, or Honeydue.com. 89% of Americans say budgeting helped them manage or get out of debt.
Explore other income streams.
Job options. Explore gig work and temporary second jobs. Or it may finally be the right time to make the leap to a new career.
If your goal is to move this year or if someone you know is planning to do so, feel free to contact me with any questions. I’m here to offer clear, concise information you can trust. Spring is here and is anticipated to be a competitive time. You don’t want to get left behind. Real estate is local and I’m here to walk you through with the best information so you can make the best choices and know how it applies to you in the Wimberley and Texas Hill Country area. If you’re thinking of selling your home, call me today! Experience matters, especially in the current changing market.
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: NAR 2015 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. Used with permission by the Buffini & Company.
Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES and the #2 Top Producing RE/MAX Agent for Austin and the Central Texas Area for 2023. When Experience matters…Call “AJ” Today! Your Hill Country Luxury Property Expert. Member: Institute for LUXURY HOME MARKETING. He is Wimberley’s “Peak Producer” offering Professional Representation for both Buyers and Sellers in Real Estate Transactions. AJ may be contacted at 512.848-6612 or at AJ@REMAX.net Call AJ Today!
Glass with Class
by Tom Wiley
There are art galleries. Then, there are art galleries which put tools in your hands to make your own artistic creations. Silo Gallery & Glass Studios is such a place.
It’s hard to miss the metal silo building located just east of the Ranch Road 12 Junction. This building houses the Silo Architectural Studio, where custom large purpose-built projects are created. Next to a man-made waterfall and koi pond is the colorful Gallery and Studio. All of this was made possible by the vision of glass masters Elissa Beach and Chester John.
An open Studio makes up one end of the main building. Classes are offered for anyone, no matter their experience in working with glass. Projects differ, but the process of fusing glass is the same. Participants learn in a fun, relaxed environment with an incredible variety of materials on hand. Everyone leaves with a feeling of success. It’s perfect for individuals, families, students, team-building groups, as well as for crafters seeking a new hobby. The main Studio area also provides full Bullseye Glass and other artist supplies for the glass fusing community.
Just inside the door of the main building is an impressive gallery. Some of the most talented glass artists in the area exhibit amazing works for sale. Glass dazzles and these displays prove why that is the case. Visitors can’t help but be impressed with the workmanship which created each piece.
The expansive rooms at the rear of the building are where the magic happens. Nine kilns of different sizes line the walls; this is where projects from the open studio classes are fired. These are in addition to two giant kilns for oversized architectural works housed in the Silo building. Advanced glass artists can acquire time and access to specialized equipment: grinders, molds, and a large powder room come together to create the largest purpose-built fused glass studio in Central Texas.
Silo
Silo Gallery & Glass Studios recently celebrated their 10th anniversary. With such an array of services, it is a real balancing act to keep everything flawlessly flowing. Elissa Beach and Chester John happily admit that this process could not be achieved without their talented staff. This begins with Pippa Powling, the Silo general manager and creative director. Added to that team are the skilled glass artists who keep the shelves of the gallery stocked with incredible displays. Come for a visit. Be inspired. Sign up for a class!
Wimberley’s
themed event
Art Crawl is now 5 to 8pm on the 4th Friday of each month.
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.
by Randy Lawrence
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
by Joe Harris
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.
Joe grew up in Charlotte, Michigan, as a second-generation arborist. He attended Texas State, joining Bartlett while he was there. Joe worked 5 years as an arborist climber and crew leader, transitioning to Arborist Representative. He and his family love spending time on the San Marcos river. Visit Bartlett.com or call 512 392 1089 to schedule an appointment.
Time to think about your water supply?
With another Texas summer just a few months away, thoughts are turning to alternative water sources and more efficient treatment techniques. 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. A commonly overlooked, and misunderstood, household appliances is the water softener. Without an understanding of how this equipment works, it can be difficult to know whether it is operating at maximum efficiency.
Recently, 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. It is important to note that 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.
To maximize the efficiency of your 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, the condition and performance of your system, and make adjustments or upgrades.
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 25 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and surrounding areas for over a decade.
“When you want quality, call a pro.”
Spring Financial Check-Up: A Time for
Reflection and Financial Renewal
Spring is a season of renewal, making it the perfect time to review your financial health. A comprehensive financial check-up can help set a solid foundation for the year. Here are key steps to ensure you are well-prepared to meet your financial goals.
Step 1: Review your budget. Start by reviewing your current budget. Assess your income and expenses to ensure alignment with your financial goals. Look for areas to trim unnecessary expenses and reallocate funds towards savings or debt repayment.
Analyze spending patterns. Scrutinize your spending patterns over the past few months to identify categories where you overspend. Adjust your budget for upcoming changes like a change in income or new bills.
Step 2: Assess your debt. Evaluate all your debts, including credit cards, student loans, and mortgages. Review interest rates and prioritize paying off high-interest debt first. Consider refinancing or consolidating debts at lower interest rates to save money.
Step 3: Evaluate your savings. Assess your savings accounts, including emergency funds and retirement accounts. Ensure your emergency fund covers at least three to six months of living expenses. Review retirement contributions and consider increasing
increasing them to maximize employer matches and compound interest.
Step 4: Review your investments. Examine your investment portfolio. Ensure your asset allocation aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Diversify investments to manage risk. Assess performance over the past year and
consult a financial advisor if needed.
Step 5: Update insurance coverage. Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage. Evaluate health, life, and property insurance plans for sufficient protection; reflecting life changes such as marriage, a new child, or major purchases.
Scott G. Hackett, CFP® is the president of the Hackett Financial Group LLC (HFG), a fee-only registered investment advisor. Visit HackettFinancialGroup.com or reach out at 512 847 0630. Email Scott at Scott@HackettFinancialGroup.com.
Estate Planning for Less Traditional Families
by Carrie Campbell, J.D.
It is significant for estate planning purposes to have an in-depth discussion with your attorney about your unique family dynamics. It is unusual to have a traditional or stereotypical family wherein two parents share two children
who are self-sufficient and all get along splendidly. Family division is common. Many have distanced themselves from blood relations and selected a new family of friends. The most common non-traditional family is a blended one wherein there are multiple children from prior relationships. Blended families may or may not actually blend well with one another. In addition, there may be other family members in need of care or financial support that must be considered – aging parents or relatives with disabilities. When meeting with an estate attorney, you should be prepared to talk about more than names and assets. To properly develop a workable plan that minimizes predictable challenges, your attorney should learn about your family members, ongoing obligations and expectations, concerns about reliability or sustainability, skill sets and proximity of those considered for executor or trustee or agent, and your goals. There are many options to review to find the best fit for your family.
Some of the options to investigate with your attorney include treating all children as the children of both spouses, specific gifts to children prior to a general bequest to the surviving spouse, using different types of assets to provide for different people, and
separate benefits under a will for surviving spouse and children. The greater difficulty is more often planning for controlling or demanding personalities. Power struggles plague families when siblings compete for authority or money. Parents often use appointments of co-executors or co-trustees to address such concerns, but really make them far worse. Judges become referees in such family squabbles that clog up the courts. Selecting the right people for the right jobs and setting deliberate boundaries can minimize or discourage will or guardianship contests.
Carrie Campbell has lived and practiced law in Wimberley since 1997. She is the managing partner of Mounger & Campbell law firm. Carrie is an active member of the Rotary Club of Wimberley and president of the Wimberley Village Library Foundation. She proudly has three wonderful daughters and two lively grandsons.
Litigation: The Law – Our North Star
An old comedy sketch began, “Why is there air?” Setting comedy aside for a moment, an obvious answer is so we can survive. In these interesting times, I think of another question that would lead to the same answer. That question would be “Why is there law?”
The law is our North Star, guiding basic societal conduct. It applies to our Ship of state just as it applies to us and our neighbor. Our courts exist to apply, and where necessary, interpret, the law. Just a few days ago, the American Bar Association, responded to recent events with a defense of the law and the courts. For you who care about the law and its application, I am copying below a part of the ABA statement so that you can consider what happens if we allow our Ship of state to drift without reference to the law. I will post the entire statement on Roland’s Blog at RolandsLaw.com.
Excerpts from statement: The American Bar Association condemns recent remarks of high-ranking officials of the administration that appear to question the legitimacy of judicial review and demand impeachment of a judge merely because the court did not agree with the government’s position. These comments pose serious risks to our constitutional framework that separates power among three co-equal branches. …. What is never acceptable is what was said by representatives of this administration, including the misleading assertion that judges cannot control the executive’s
executive’s legitimate power and calls for impeachment of a judge who did not rule in the administration’s favor. It is also not acceptable to attack the
by Roland Brown
judge making the ruling or try to interfere with the independence of the court. ….It is a fundamental cornerstone of our democracy that the courts are the protectors of the citizenry from government overreach. All lawyers know that judges have the authority to determine whether the administration’s actions are lawful and a legitimate exercise of executive branch authority. It is one of the oldest and most revered precedent(s) in United States legal history — Marbury v. Madison. … There have also been suggestions that the executive branch should consider disobeying court orders. These statements threaten the very foundation of our constitutional system.
I have written often on the importance of our courts. I don’t always agree with them, but their independent role as a third branch of government is indispensable to our survival as an orderly society; which recalls the question’s answer: so we can survive. Pay attention, listen critically, be heard.
Attorney Roland Brown handles exclusively personal injury claims. Roland, who offices in Wimberley, has been voted HAYS COUNTY’S BEST PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY for 2020, 2021, and 2023 in annual polls of Hays County attorneys. For more information call 512 847 2500.
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