Wimberley Valley News & Views - Vol. 28 Issue 6 - June 2025
POSTAL PATRON
Editor Publisher
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson
Creative Director
Nico Johnson
Cover
Anna Maloverjan
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.
Contact us Cyle@ValentinoPublications.com 512 375 5590
“SUMMER AFTERNOON, SUMMER AFTERNOON; TO ME THOSE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THE TWO MOST BEAUTIFUL WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. ” –– HENRY JAMES
I remember being surprised when I learned that the official first day of summer is June 20. That seems so late. Surely summer must start sometime in mid May, at least if you live in Texas. That's when the water is finally warm enough to swim in, the sun starts to make her presence known, and it feels like the fun really starts to pick up.
Summer is such a yin and yang experience, mostly if you're an adult. As a child, it was everything – it was freedom and opportunity. But as an adult, it's often too much or too little. There’s an art to achieving just right.
The long days of summer have always thrown me as a parent, because we have to wake up early to seize the day before it’s too hot. And then it's time for bed while the sun is still up and my son thinks I’m trying to pull a fast one on him. There's a balance. But the summer is also ripe with chances for expansion. There are so many opportunities for growth and exploration and realization. It's all what we make of it.
I hope your slide into summer is sweet and full of happy memories and beautiful summer afternoons.
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. June 9, 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. To learn more and for monthly topics visit HillCountryHerbSociety.org.
• 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. June 19: Halleyanna Finlay
• 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
The Rediscovered Cherry Tree
When we first moved here, we found the remains of a huge Black Escarpment cherry tree that had recently succumbed to structural collapse. Its size and weight were simply too great for the trunk to support it, and it buckled during a storm, leaving a large opening in the woods filled with decomposing branches. A sad sight for a tree lover like me.
Escarpment cherries are one of the few fruit trees native to the Texas hill country, and the only one that grows as large as surrounding elms and oaks. Texas Persimmons, Blanco Crabapples, and Mexican Plums are sometimes found in the area, but all are less common than other natives.
We were delighted to find a few cherry seedlings growing around the collapsed mother tree, but most were heavily browsed by whitetail deer in the neighborhood and several died in a terrible drought year. One was located near enough to our house to care for it, but as the years wore on, the cliff on which it grew eroded more and more. To save it, we picked a mild day in January and transplanted it to a perfect spot shield by small cedars and partly shaded by large oaks.
Life intervened as our kids grew up and there were graduations and college and a couple of weddings and grandsons. We frankly forgot about the replanted tree until, when exploring one day, we discovered the orphaned tree, hale and hardy and over twenty feet
by Kern Deschner
tall. The cedars that protected it had grown so tall that they shielded it from view but there it was – a true Phoenix, risen from the ashes of its history.
Like so much of Nature, trees are imbued with the evolution of their genetic heritage that provides multiple ways for the continuation of the species. Seeds,
by Tim Thompson
cuttings, and root grafting all provide opportunities for starting a new specimen of a tree. Additionally, cherries have their seeds carried in a delicious fruit that numerous animals will carry to a new location for another chance at life!
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. Call King Feed at 512 847 2618.
Last Minute Thing Here
So, I know I am being lazy, but also curious. It has been a really busy week at work and WN&V needed this article, well, yesterday. But, we live in the days of AI, right? Maybe I should let technology help
me out since the publisher needs to get this ready to print. So here is what AI has to say about our ranch. My comments are in brackets.
Nestled between a postcard and a dream lies Tierra Prometida Alpaca Ranch which translates to “the promised land”, though some guests insist that it should be called “Land of Floofy Drama Queens”. [Note: not sure if AI is talking about the alpacas or me]. It is not your average farm. It is a place where the alpacas are fluffier than your aunt’s 1980 perm and the vibes are as serene as yoga hosted by woodland creatures [Note: REALLY?!?]. It is run by Rhonda, the Alpaca Whisper [I will give them that] and is the home to a herd of these gloriously awkward animals with big eyes, even bigger personalities, and a collective resting smug-face that says – you wore those shoes to our ranch? [They will try to unlace your shoes. It’s a weird nibbling thing they do.] Visitors may have a casual farm day but some leave emotionally transformed sometimes muttering, “Alydar the alpaca healed my childhood trauma with a single spit.” [I pretty much doubt that one, but, hey, if that actually worked, could be a good marketing tool!]
Let’s talk about fashion. These alpacas are not just cute, they are productive. Their fleece is turned into luxurious yarn softer than a lullaby sung by Morgan Freeman [now WAIT a minute! Not sure if that is a compliment!]. Every scarf and sock carries a subtle scent of wearing an alpaca product that allows the owner to feel superior to others who do not own alpaca products. So, yes, there is a gift shop because you will want to take home something that says this shawl elevates me!
In short, Tierra Prometida Alpaca Ranch is more than a ranch. It is a sanctuary, a fiber filled comedy club, and a low-key therapy session disguised as a day trip. Whether you are looking to knit, spin, nap, or maybe even have your ego shattered by a majestic spitter [okay, in actual fact, they do not spit that much, but it is supposed to be funny], this could be your promised land!
So there it is! AI’s description of our ranch. I think the AI probably is going to have some use in our business, perhaps helping us make breeding decisions, but until I see it cleaning up the barns for me, I don't think it is ready to write my articles. I will try not to let this happen again. But at least it is only one day late!
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.
Ways Hidden Anger Resurfaces
She was picture perfect. Her hair was neatly groomed, make-up tastefully applied, and she was dressed to the nines. And she smiled – all the time. The only crack in the façade of her glossy exterior was her right hand that kept curling into a tight, little angry fist.
Jane (not her real name), sat with the other patients in the psychiatric hospital where I worked, and talked about what had brought her into group therapy. She mentioned she was having a hard time adjusting to her children getting older and needing her less. She mentioned that her husband was controlling and she was afraid to ask him even basic questions, such as what their financial status was since she wasn’t allowed access to their investments? All the while she unconsciously curled, and uncurled, her fist into that little angry ball, and never allowed her tight smile to slip or falter.
“What are you angry about?” I asked.
“Angry? I’m not angry. I’m here to deal with my depression. I have nothing to be angry about. Actually, I have much to be thankful for.”
“Then why do you smile even when you talk about things that you find painful?” I said, noticing that her fist had tightened until the knuckles stood out white as chalk marks.
Her smile faltered and her eyes brimmed with tears. I asked her, “If your anger was water, how high would it fill this room?”
“To the ceiling,” she said softly.
“What color would it be?”
“Dark red with streaks of black,” she said, with just the edge of steel in her voice. At that point, the real Jane entered the room and she began the vulnerable journey of unpacking the underlying issue of her depression – her anger.
It’s been said that depression is anger, spread thin. Nonproductive ways of expressing anger are to be passive, aggressive, or passive-aggressive. Therefore, people may deal with their anger by either stuffing their feelings (like Jane), spewing their anger at whoever is in their path, or being indirect and misleading rather than expressing their feelings openly.
by Leslie Tourish, LPC
People who stuff their feelings may have what is called hidden anger. Warning signs are as follows: Procrastination in the completion of imposed tasks. Perpetual or habitual lateness. Sarcasm, cynicism, or flippancy in conversation. Frequent sighing. Over-politeness, constant cheerfulness, and smiling while hurting. Frequent disturbing or frightening dreams. Over-controlled, monotone speaking voice. Excessive irritability over trifles. Clenched jaws or grinding of teeth while sleeping. Chronic stiff or sore neck or shoulder muscles. Ulcers.
For every behavior there is a purpose or a benefit. The neurotic rationale of hidden anger are as follows:
Avoid facing your real feelings.
Anger is a natural response to hurt. If you avoid anger, you avoid the underlying emotional injury.
Can feel mistreated and abused. You can complain about others mistreating you and avoid taking responsibility for yourself.
Give yourself headaches or ulcers as a result of channeling your anger to yourself.
A way for you to get sympathy and not face an unpleasant feeling, such as repressed anger.
Get approval from others for being a doormat.
You’re a nice person but you give up power by denying anger, resulting in a diminished sense of self and feelings of helplessness.
Avoid responsibility for taking control of your life.
If you avoid expressing anger, you wind up feeling helpless and powerless. This may backfire into assuming the general belief that you cannot affect your life in a direct and meaningful way and you are not able to attain your personal goals.
A quote by Charles R. Brown reads, “The white light streams down to be broken up by those human prisms into all the colors of the rainbow. Take your own color in the pattern and be just that.”
Perhaps our greatest achievement may be learning to be true to our nature without suppression or aggression. Being able to express our feelings and thoughts, openly and honestly, are the first steps in dropping the mask and letting our true light shine.
Leslie Tourish, LPC, is a Dripping Springs psychotherapist in private practice. To contact Leslie, visit LeslieTourish.com orLATourish.com
Summer Learning is Fun
As Texas summer temperatures rise, my childhood nostalgia grows for cherished summer memories. I enjoyed my childhood summers because I had more time to explore and try things that my school days did not allow me. I read a lot. We went to the library several times a week. We worked on projects and hobbies. We attended scout and music festival camps. We went to the pool daily. We played summer sports, visited the beach, and ate exotic seafood dishes.
My parents were educators. They structured our daily routine to include learning opportunities during our summer days. Mornings began with breakfast, followed by our daily chores: brief, concentrated practices on our musical instruments, and then some child-friendly tasks to enhance the cleanliness and beauty of our home. We ran errands or visited the library. Afternoons, we spent at the community pool. Evenings were devoted to family gatherings, events, or simply spending time together.
What I took away from my childhood experiences was the rhythmic routine my parents created. It was not rigid, nor improvised or unplanned. We squeezed out every drop of time to
by Casey Harrison, LDT, CSLDS, CALT-QIT
do many things. My family enjoyed learning, yet my summers felt relaxed and enriched. Most of all, I remember playing my instruments and making music with my family and friends. We practiced every day to learn and improve our musical skills, and we incorporated concerts or other musical events into our summer
by Paula E. Bird
lives. Summer was a great time for us children and my summers hold some of the most powerful memories I still have of my lifetime. We had time to explore learning, growth, and musical fun together.
Parents, if you are seeking to involve your young students in a wonderful opportunity to learn a musical instrument or be introduced to the joy of music-making, call/text the Wildflower Music Studio. We offer introductory violin classes in June and July, as well as instruction on other musical instruments. Now is a great time to join the studio for the fall!
Paula E. Bird has taught in the Wimberley area for over 20 years. Recently retired from Texas State University and the Austin Symphony, she has performed at Carnegie Hall as a founding member of the Artisan String Quartet. Joined by her business partner, musician Ian Lee, the pair serves over 100 students in the Central Texas area. Contact her at birdtull@prodigy.net or (512) 694-7687.
The Benefits of Audiobooks with Children
The topic of audiobooks comes up often. Audiobooks are an accommodation for those with dyslexia and one that I recommend to all my students. While an excellent tool for anyone, audiobooks provide additional benefits for those with dyslexia or other learning differences. Audiobooks offer a bridge to higher-level
texts than what the student is reading independently. We want students to continue reading over the summer and audiobooks provide many benefits.
Build background knowledge and grade-level content knowledge. Audiobooks provide access to grade-level content, with expected information for their age, grade level, and beyond. Students can gain confidence as they engage in conversations and activities.
Higher-level vocabulary is gained through audiobooks and becomes part of a student’s knowledge base. Students develop new vocabulary, complex syntactic forms, and literate language forms. When students hear new words, they can connect that word’s pronunciation to the written representation and meaning, increasing their ability to read that word later. Increase comprehension. Students can access print beyond their current independent reading while improving decoding abilities. Audiobooks bridge independent word reading and understanding of the text. The cognitive workload during school can become overwhelming, impacting our reading. Audiobooks release that stress, allowing space to think about the content of the text.
Allows students to enjoy books that are on par with their spoken language. Many dyslexic students have average to above-average receptive language skills. Audiobooks allow students access to grade-level and above books that are often better aligned with their language skills. In addition, students can choose books of interest – an essential part of learning to read for pleasure.
Human-voiced audiobooks provide models for fluent reading and are a much better use of instructional time than silent reading for students with dyslexia. Audiobooks help students keep up with reading assignments, especially as they move up the grades. Textbooks are often available in audiobook format and prove helpful for students of all ages. Students should follow along with their eyes on the text as they engage with the audiobook.
Many students with learning differences become anxious when asked to read and discuss books. Audiobooks allow students to become immersed in the meaning of the text. They can have social conversations with peers about books read, empowering them to engage in literacy conversations or connect with references from books in movies, songs, and other writing pieces.
To learn more, visit WimberleyDyslexiaCenter.com and TheDyslexiaClassroom.com
Casey Harrison, founder of The Dyslexia Classroom and Wimberley Dyslexia and Learning Center, is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (ALTA), Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (TX, ALTA), Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (IDA), and a Qualified Teacher with over 27 years of experience. She works with parents, teachers, and PK-12th grade students at her private practice.
Reconnect
In yoga and Tai Chi, we become re-connected with the communication coming from within. We are basically spending an hour listening to the signals our body is constantly giving us but that we are trained to ignore. That hurts, but I still wanna keep going. Ignore. I’m hungry but I shouldn't eat – especially that. Or... I am going to eat that, even though I’ll feel yuck. Ignore, ignore. I’m frustrated, but I don’t want to feel frustrated right now Ignore, ignore, ignore! And we wonder why we are at odds with ourselves all the time.
We get disconnected when we are too busy to pay attention. A slight stomachache or headache is covered by a tablet or a pill. A tight back is ignored because we still want to be on the screen. Those things are telling us to slow down, but we keep going. Our bodies eventually start getting louder – until we are unpleasantly forced to pay attention.
Yoga and Tai Chi teach us to slowly start listening. We learn to simply stop paying attention to the screen and just get up and move when our back is getting tight. We learn to listen to what our body wants to eat and also when we think we are hungry but really just need to breathe or time to think. And we learn to listen to that frustration and use that energy to change what we need to change.
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
Even better, we learn to avoid things before they become a pain in the back, a snack attack, or a temper. Our bodies let us know how to do that, too. And the best is that we learn that by not listening, we are also not experiencing the joy that is there for the taking all the time.
by Sarah Geenberg
We feel calm. We start to notice the beauty that is around us. We see love and connections we never saw before. Yes, yoga frees us to physically do more. But, there are many types of freedom.
Sarah is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio near Blue Hole and OnlineSeniorsYoga.com. Their yoga, Tach Chi, and karate classes especially cater to Seniors. The first class is free. Go check them out.
Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio
Halitosis:
Sarah Geenberg 512 971 8528
501 Old Kyle Road WimberleyKarateYoga.com
What is it? What causes it?
Halitosis is better known as chronic bad breath. It is something that mints, mouthwash, or even a good brushing can’t solve. It is unlike morning breath or a strong smell that lingers after your lunch. Halitosis `
remains for an extended period of time and may be a sign of something more serious.
If quick bad breath fixes are only covering up the problem for a short time, then something else may be happening in your body. That may include cavities and deeper pockets for gum disease that give bad breath bacteria extra places to hide in your mouth. These pockets are difficult to clear out when you’re brushing or cleaning between your teeth.
According to the Mayo Clinic nose, sinus, and throat issues that can lead to postnasal drip may also contribute to bad breath. Bacteria feeds on mucus your body produces when it’s battling something like a sinus infection, leaving you sniffling and smelly. Suffering from dry mouth? Saliva goes a long way for your dental health and your breath. It rinses and removes unwanted leftovers from your mouth, helps break down food when you eat and provides disease-fighting substances to help prevent cavities and infections. If you don’t make enough saliva, one sign may be halitosis.
Tobacco products wreak havoc on your body and your breath. Not only do many tobacco products leave their own odor on your breath, they can also dry out your mouth. Smokers are also more likely to develop gum disease which can also add to halitosis.
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
Local Real Estate Update
I want to share an update on the local real estate market as we are in a very interesting season that is great for buyers with sellers experiencing the challenge of more days on market. As mortgage interest rates remain steady in the upper 6% range, there are some buyers who are waiting on the sidelines resulting in future pent-up demand while others have decided to move forward by marrying the house and dating the rate hoping for future reductions.
Here are Wimberley area statistics as of May 23, 2025:
There are 169 houses on the market. They range from $154,000 to $7,950,000. In the last 30 days, 20 houses have sold (closed).
Seventeen of these houses were in the $225,000 to $579,000 price range with an average sold price of $233.53 per square foot. The other 3 homes that sold range from $750,000 to $3,000,000.
Of the current 169 houses on the market there are:
52: $200,000 to $500,000
26: $500,000 to $700,000
23: $700,000 to $1,000-000
59: $1,000,000 to $3,000,000
9: $3,000,000 to $8,000,000
There are currently 7 houses that are active under contract or pending.
There were 22 price reductions in the last 7 days. Sold sales volume compared to this time last year is -9.89. Due to the volume of competition on the market, buyers are cautious and picky. It is their market for a change and they are enjoying the number of properties they have from which to
by Jim & Debbie Donaldson
choose. Sellers are learning to be patient and lower to their prices to remain competitive. These are interesting time for everyone and the experts say that a mortgage rate reduction under 6% could trigger another rush in the market as the pent- up demand would unleash that group of buyers who are on the sidelines. When will the rate reduction happen that will spur the market?
Buyers: Buy down your interest rate or see if the seller is willing to contribute funds to buy down the rate to a lower level.
Sellers: Houses that are priced correctly, attractive, and move-in ready are selling.
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 830-857-3371 or Jim.Donaldson78@gmail.com or Debbie 512-665-9588 or Debbie.Donaldson79@gmail.com.
Get Your Home Ready for Summer
by AJ Harwood
Spring into action and complete maintenance work this spring, so come summer, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a hot dog on the grill at your perfect barbecue. Use this checklist to give your
home a smooth transition with the change in seasons. Nothing motivates home maintenance more than the promise of a great summer party!
Wash your home’s exterior. Depending on the siding you have, power-washing can potentially do harm. In most cases, a garden hose and a cleaning wand attachment is all you need. Remember to tarp your plants and shrubs. Don’t forget to clean those windows too.
Clean your deck or patio. After cleaning a wooden deck, remember to treat the wood, stain and seal it once everything is dry. Most patio furniture can be freshened up with an all-purpose cleaner. On furniture cushions, you can use soap, water, and a soft bristle brush.
Tend the garden. Lay down mulch to protect your plants from a drought, boost their growth, and give your yard a finished look. Air out your home’s interior. Open all the windows and run the air conditioning on low to rid your home of any winter mustiness. Swap out wintery décor. Swap out dark linens for a lighter look. Make the inside of your home look like it’s ready for summer.
Add a fresh coat of paint. Notice any chipping or peeling exterior paint? Consider a touch-up. If you hire a professional, you’ll want the work done in the spring so it’s ready by mid-summer. Check the venue. Make sure the patio or party space is refreshed. Update or polish up old furniture. Consider adding fun amenities like string lights or a fire pit. Update your outdoor sitting area by adding a colorful umbrella, an outdoor rug, and new pillows. Don’t forget about the outdoor music.
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 a Top Producing Agent in the Texas Hill Country areas. 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!
SUPPORTING THE ARTS
By Tom Wiley
Once upon a time, a group of artists, and art teachers came together to help support and raise funds for art education in the school system. Budget and time constraints were making it hard for students to take art classes and benefit from a full range of art
to the formation of projectART, a nonprofit organization to supporting art and providing creative opportunities for area students. Since its launch in 2019, projectART has programs to meet those its efforts continue to
Providing funds directly to WISD art classrooms was an immediate goal for projectART. Equipment and art supplies were purchased through a series of Donation Days. They included a kiln, clay, and glazes which allowed students to develop new directions. Since 2020, over $26,000 has been contributed. That program now goes by the title Amplify the Art Room and continues to provide supplies that can be used year after year. The program is expanding to help 6 grade students prepare for art classes at Danforth Junior High. th
One giant step was the acquisition of the Lowery House in September 2023. The 1880 rock structure on River Road just off Ranch Road 12 became ARTSPACE, a mixed-use arts education space and contemporary gallery. This facility permits the organization to provide multiple exhibitions, art sales, artist talks, workshops, performances, events, and K-12 art classes and summer camps.
The projectART website provides information about those classes and camps. They are spread throughout the spring and summer and include various age groups and skills taught. These include painting, drawing, ceramics, and printmaking. Adult classes are also offered. Fee reductions are available for Sustaining pARTners as is tuition assistance for families experiencing financial hardship.
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ProjectMENTOR pairs area 7 -12 grade students with professional artists for a semesterlong apprenticeship. This one-on-one experience not only creates a connection for producing art, but includes broader experiences in exhibiting and marketing. A concluding exhibition displays their end-of-semester art.
To call the efforts of projectART “ambitious” would be a gross understatement. Their extensive website reveals numerous programs which have been developed. “Supporting the arts” should go hand-in-hand with “supporting projectART”. Donations can be made for as little as ten dollars a month. But there are opportunities to contribute more. Adult and teen volunteers are needed in all areas. Every dollar, every minute involved with projectART adds to the support of art education and helps to provide creative opportunities for area youth.
ProjectART
ARTSPACE
111 River Road, Wimberley (512) 796-2809
projectartwimberley.org
Want to expand your home or business gallery?
New art is on exhibit and available to purchase at the Wimberley Valley Art League Gallery at the Community Center, the Wimberley Village Library, and the Wimberley Medical Plaza.
Be Aware of Heat Stress This Summer
You aren’t the only one that dreads the dog days of summer; your plants suffer from the heat too. Did you know that high temperatures alone can cause significant damage to you plants’ health? High temperatures reduce photosynthetic rates faster than they reduce respirations rates. The result: carbohydrates produced by photosynthesis are used faster than they can be replaced – an imbalanced budget! Higher temperatures increase the loss of water through stomates in the leaves, thereby increasing the demands on the root system to take up water in order to cool themselves via transpiration. (Usually high temperatures are also accompanied by low rainfall – insult to injury). Cellular membranes also become unstable and result in ion leakage within the leaf cellular structure. So how do plants cope with high temperatures? One way is through the formation of heat shock proteins (HSPs). HSPs are found in humans and other animals as well and perform the same function as in plants: maintain the integrity and function of proteins in high heat. HSPs are formed in response to rising temperatures and help to stabilize proteins to ensure cell functioning. HSPs help to moderate metabolic reactions that would otherwise speed up and cause an imbalance of metabolites
and acidification in cellular tissue. Calcium also plays a critical role in temperature stress adaptation by modulating enzyme activity and stabilizing membranes. There are physical adaptations as well, such as increasing leaf hairs and waxes, changing leaf morphology to reduce light interception, and changing leaf orientation.
by Joe Harris
Preparing plants for heat stress consists of the horticultural basics: plant properly in high quality soil, manage soil fertility, and properly irrigate. Contact your ISA certified arborist for a free consultation and more info.
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.
The Truth About Refrigerator Filters
by Randy Lawrence
Almost every new refrigerator available today comes with a built-in activated carbon filter designed to improve taste or odor. Most models also have some type of reminder system that tells you when to replace the filter cartridge. Many people ``
have questions about these filters. Is it necessary to have the filter in the first place? If so, how important is it to change that filter as soon as the reminder is activated? Here are a few interesting facts about these filters that may help clear up some confusion and possibly save you some money in the long run. There are two main types of filter change reminders in today’s refrigerator models. The most common is a basic timer system. This system will simply count down a pre-set amount of time (usually six months) and then activate a light which tells you to replace the filter. The main drawback to this method is that it does not take into account the volume of water used. For example, you could go six months without using the ice or water dispenser and the unit will still indicate that it’s time to change the filter. It’s a fair assumption that the majority of these filters are thrown away far too soon. The other type of reminder system is a little less common. It involves a flow meter which counts gallons as they are used through the dispenser. This is a more efficient method than the timer because it actually measures water usage.
Unfortunately, neither technology knows what your incoming water quality is. This can greatly affect the lifespan of the filter. If you are on a chlorinated water supply, your filter life will be shorter. If you have a whole house treatment system, like a softener or carbon filter, then the life of your filter would be greatly increased. If your refrigerator is fed by a reverse osmosis system, then your built-in filter becomes completely unnecessary and can be removed or bypassed. Each case is slightly different, but at $40-$60 per filter it pays to know the facts so you aren’t wasting money on unnecessary replacements.
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.
Consider Adding Alternative Investments to Increase Returns and Reduce Portfolio Risk:
Enhancing Portfolio Diversification and Stability
Investors continually seek ways to reduce portfolio risk while maximizing returns. Incorporating alternative investments is an effective method for achieving these goals. By going beyond traditional assets like stocks and bonds, investors can improve diversification and reduce exposure to market volatility.
Understanding Alternative Investments Alternative investments include asset classes such as real estate, private equity, hedge funds, commodities, and structured banknotes. These assets often show low correlation with traditional markets, making them valuable for diversification.
Benefits of Alternative Investments
Diversification
Alternative investments help diversify portfolios by including assets that behave differently from stocks and bonds, reducing the impact of market downturns.
Stability, Higher Income, Inflation Hedge
Certain alternatives, like structured banknotes and real estate, may provide stable cash flows and/or act as inflation hedges, protecting long-term purchasing power.
Types of Alternative Investments
Real Estate: Offers steady rental income and capital appreciation
Commodities: Protects against inflation and currency fluctuations
Private Equity: Provides diversification and strong return potential
Private Credit: Often offer better risk/reward terms than publicly traded bonds
Structured Banknotes: Customizable financial instruments that can provide
enhanced returns and risk-adjusted outcomes tailored to specific market conditions
Challenges Alternative investments can be illiquid and more complex, often requiring specialized knowledge. Beware of potentially higher fees and regulatory risks that necessitate careful consideration.
Strategies for Integration Investors should carefully assess their personal risk tolerance, time horizon, and liquidity needs prior to allocating a portion of their investment portfolio to alternatives. Consider consulting with financial experts that can help optimize portfolios. Regular monitoring ensures alignment with goals.
Alternative investments offer significant benefits including higher income, enhanced growth potential, greater diversification, and risk reduction. With proper planning and expert guidance, these assets can enhance portfolio resilience in today’s uncertain financial markets.
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.
Probate Terms and Explanations
by Carrie Campbell, J.D.
One of the biggest complaints against the legal profession (including myself) is the use of legalese or terms unfamiliar to the general public. A large part of what I do when first meeting with prospective clients is a review of certain titles and
titles and duties that significantly affect the outcome when a person dies with or without a will. As a courtesy, I give you a few here today:
Intestate: Died without leaving a valid will
Testate: Died with a valid will
Administrator: A person appointed by a probate judge to manage the estate of a person who died without a will or without naming in their will who they want to serve as executor. An administrator can serve independently (without court supervision) or dependently (with court supervision) subject to whether all the heirs agree to the appointment. Similarly, an administrator may or may be required to post a bond.
Executor: The person nominated in a will to serve as the estate’s representative, usually independently and without bond.
Estate: All land and personal property owned by a person at the time of their death that does not otherwise pass to others by a beneficiary form or survivorship agreement
Heir: Person who inherits through the default provisions of the Texas Estates Code when there was no will
Distributee: Person entitled to a part of a person’s estate pursuant to the terms of a will
Heirship: Process the court uses to determine who are an individual’s rightful heirs based upon the default provisions of the Texas Estates Code
Fiduciary: Any person who controls assets for the benefit of another person
Fiduciary Duty: Duty owed by a fiduciary to act in good faith, loyalty, integrity, transparency, fairness for another’s benefit
Letters Testamentary: Certificate issued by probate court when an individual is appointed independent executor of an estate
Letters of Administration: Certificate issued by the probate court when an individual is appointed either an independent or dependent administrator of an estate
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. To contact Carrie, call 512 847 1308 or CarrieC1970@gmail.com.
Litigation: Up all night?
The judge has just recessed the jury trial for the day and your lawyer is hurriedly gathering the books and papers scattered on the counsel table and beyond. You may be asked to hang around for a debriefing with the lawyer before going home for the evening, or you may be asked to meet your lawyer back at the office or perhaps a hotel room if the trial is not being held in your locale, to confer further. In some ways, the lawyer’s day is just beginning. Frequently, a judge will ask the lawyers to provide briefing the next day on some issue such as whether certain evidence should be admitted or whether certain language should be included in the court’s charge to the jury.
Your lawyer is anxious to get started on the briefing asked for by the judge but also knows that things which occurred during trial that day require the reviewing of exhibits in more detail, perhaps the locating of a previously unanticipated witness, or taking time to confer with witnesses scheduled to appear the next day to get an understanding of how they might respond when questioned about some new theory or fact that was presented during the day’s proceedings.
Hopefully, your lawyer has learned how to prioritize these important tasks and how to assign responsibilities to the various legal assistants, retained experts, investigators, associate attorneys, etcetera. In some cases, your lawyer will have retained an appellate lawyer to assist in the trial in order to provided legal backup for arguments being made to the trial judge and to help ensure that a proper foundation is being laid for success on
appeal if the case is ultimately appealed. If an appellate specialist is on hand, the briefing will be assigned to that lawyer while your lawyer deals with witnesses,
exhibits, etcetera.
by Roland Brown
These efforts may keep your lawyer up all night, but the importance of these long hours cannot be overstated. Your lawyer must then be ready to resume the fight on the next day, hopefully armed with valuable new ammunition developed overnight. For me, the “thrill of the chase” provides adrenalin allowing for several consecutive days of such sleepless effort.
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.
Modern Hill Country retreat on 6.9± acres with river access, guest suite, and sweeping views! This updated 1-bed cabin features quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and a versatile loft. A separate 2-bed guest suite offers income or multi-gen potential. Enjoy stargazing, wildlife, and access to a private Blanco River Park. This property blends rustic charm with modern comforts – just minutes from Wimberley, Canyon Lake, and Gruene.
