Wimberley Valley
PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #8 WIMBERLEY, TX 78676 ECRWSS
NEWS & VIEWS Volume 23 Issue 8 • Wimberley, Texas • July 2020 Postal Patron
T he Wimberley Way of Living
Wimberley Valley News & Views
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July 2020
Con tra ct I n
Want Results? Call us today! SO
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19 Rambling Creek Cir $175,000 - Molly Wendt
ND PE
ING
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5D ays
Randall Morris & Associates
ING
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100 The Falls $1,275,000 - Melinda Everett
212 Augusta Dr $539,900 - Traci Maxwell
335 Eagles Nest Clay Ewing
TBD Mt. Sharp Rd $906,500 - Don Montague
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Melinda Everett, Associated Broker 512-695-5963
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Serving the Wimberley area • Century 21 Randall Morris & Associates • 13320 Ranch Road 12 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
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July 2020
Pledging allegiance
Wimberley Valley News & Views
When I was in elementary school in Dallas, I remember beginning every day standing up at my desk, right hand over my heart, facing the flag that my teacher would be holding and saying the Pledge of Allegiance with the rest of my class. It was a routine that I did five days a week for years. And I admit that my pre-teenage self didn’t contemplate very often the words I was saying, nor did I realize at that point how much those words would come to mean to me later in life. I became cognizant of the great fortune I enjoyed of being an American when I began traveling around the world in my twenties. Things I had always taken for granted like free speech, the right to vote, and to own property, just for starters, weren’t always allowed to people in some of the countries I visited. This was shocking to me. From my logical viewpoint, it wasn’t fair that everyone couldn’t have the same rights I did. As I grew older I became more aware of just how rare our form of government was. We are a republic; a government held by the people and their elected representatives. And we are also a democracy where the people decide our governing body. It’s impossible for me to think of a more fair and equitable way to administer law in a nation. I am proud to be an American and hold dear the values that our wise founding fathers (and mothers) set into place. It is my hope that my grandson, who is just beginning to learn about this great country of ours, enjoys the same fortune that I have in a nation founded on liberty and justice for all. And when he is old enough to say the Pledge of Allegiance I plan to spend some time helping him understand what a special place he is pledging allegiance to. All the best wishes for a happy Independence Day and a safe and fun summer. Thank you for joining us.
WVNewsViews.com Wimberley Valley News & Views
Publisher Victoria Belue Schaefer Creative Designer Cyle Johnson Ad Design Joey Johnson Cover Joey Johnson
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. Page 3
July 2020
✯ CALENDAR OF EVENTS ✯ Visit WVNewsViews.com • Every Mon.-Thur. 4:15-8:30pm. Katherine Anne Porter night school to service those who have a few credits to graduate or cannot attend high school during the day. Free to attend. Applications can be found at www.kapschool.org or call (512) 847-6867. • Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Merchants Association meets at the Sassy Scrapper’s at 6:15pm. For more info call 512-847-6544. • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org for information. • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW on 401 Jacobs Well Rd. Wimberley. Every 2nd Mon. 10am the Jacob’s Well Chapter NADAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) meets at the Emily Ann Theater. For information contact Laura Chalberg at jacobswellnsdar@gmail.com. • Every 3rd Mon. The Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association meets at the Chapel of The Hills Church, 14601 RR 12 in Wimberley from 9-11am. Caregivers, friends, and relatives are welcome. Guest speakers and general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program For more information contact. Paul 361-265-8161 or visit WimberleyAPA.com. • Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, An Interdenominational Bible Study. 2019-2020 Course of Study: 1&2 Peter, Joshua and Christian Living. To register call 512-808-9156 or email paula.king206@yahoo.com. • Every Tue. Wimberley Home Health offers free blood pressure monitoring 10-10:30am at the Wimberley Community Center in the Seniors Lounge. • Every Tue. The Wimberley Rotary Club meets at Wimberley ISD administration building, 951 FM 2325. For more info call 512-847-2510. • Every 1st Tue. the Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical checks 9:30-10:30am. For more info call 512-847-2510. • Every 1st and 3rd Tue. the Wimberley Lions Club meets at the Wimberley Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info. • Every 2nd Tue. Wimberley Masonic Lodge meets at 181 Masonic Road, meal at 6pm and lodge stand meeting at 7pm. Call 512847-3463 for more information. • Every 2nd Tues. Art Society of Wimberley meets in Art Room. 100 Melody, 7pm. Call 512-964-7333. • Every 2nd Wed. Sep. Through May, Wimberley Garden Club meets at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection at 101 West Spoke Hill Drive. Refreshments at 9:30 a.m. Programs start at 10 am. For more information visit WimberleyGardenClub.org. • Every 2nd Wed. 11:30-1pm. Wimberley Area Cancer Support Group meets in the Wimberley Visitors Center board room, brown bag lunch. If you have cancer now or in the past, grab your lunch and join us for a relaxing time with others who share
your journey. Call Sharon East at 512-924-2002 or Dave Boyd at 512-923-9373 for additional information. • Every 3rd Wed. August thru May, 9:45-12am. The Herb Society of America Hill Country Unit meets at the Wimberley Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 956 RR 2325, For more information visit HillCountryHerbs.org. • Every 3rd Wed. EmanciPet Low-Cost Mobile Spay/Neuter cinic in Brookshire parking lot. Appointments required EmanciPet. org or 512 587-7729; contact ARF for more info 512 8472878. WAG for dog vouchers WimberleyWAGRescue.org or 512 847-3200. Dog/cat vouchers PALS PreventaLitter.com or 512 754-7257. • Every 4th Wed. Hill Country Neighbors meets at Wimberley Community Center starting at 10am. For more information contact 512-847-2849. • Every 1st Thur. The Wimberley Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group meets at 1pm at the Presbyterian Church Library on FM 2325. Contact Linda Germain at 512-924-3661. • Every 2nd Thur. The Hill Country Bead Society meets at 1pm at the Wimberley Community Center, Blanco Room. Contact Marilyn Pierce, for more info call 512-722-3549 or visit HillCountryBeadSociety.com. • Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club meets at First Baptist Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway, Wimberley. Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership. For more info contact Amy O’Neil at amy@texiasllc.com. • Every 3rd Thur. Live concerts, best music in the Hill Country at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, 7:30pm; $20-25 for adults, $5 for children. Food, coffee and soft drinks available. Corner of RR 12 & CR 1492 (Wimberley United Methodist Church.) For more info go to www.wimberleyumc.org Proceeds benefit Barnabas Connection & Mother’s Day Out scholarships. • Every Fri. Celebrate Freedom 6-8pm, pizza, 5:30pm Cypress Creek Church. Call 512-847-1222 or visit CypressCreekChurch.com. • Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten galleries for art, food and fun, 4-7pm. Call 830-708-7433. • Every 2nd Sat. WAG Rescue’s monthly dog adoption at King Feed. Call 512-847-3200 for more information. • Every Sun. The Wimberley Cycling Club fun no drop ride 10-20 miles. Meet 2:30pm Blanco Brew coffee shop. 14200 Ranch Rd 12. Join us on Facebook @Wimberley Cycling Club for more info. • Every Sun. 4:30pm, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at the Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325. OA is for anyone who has compulsive eating issues (overeaters, anorexics and bulimics.) We follow the 12-step recovery program adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous. For more info, please contact Aida at 512-787-8313. • Sat. July 4, Independence Day
Wimberley Valley News & Views • 512-709-6935 • P.O. Box 91554 Austin, Texas 78709
Wimberley Valley News & Views
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July 2020
Connected by roots Neighbors who thinned out surrounding woods to make a beautiful park-like yard around their home a few years ago have been having serious problems keeping up with the aftermath of that effort. They removed well over half of the native vegetation to allow sunlight to pierce the canopy between the remaining trees where they planted grass. Even if the process was flawed, the intent of the project was rational, and the results were pleasing — for a while. Fast forward to this past year, when the old feeder root mats and deep supporting woody roots of the former woods have finally decomposed, leaving each tree supported by only its own roots. During typical Texas spring weather with thunderstorms and high winds, more trees tipped completely over with each passing storm. Over the course of the year, perhaps a quarter to a third of the remaining trees fell. Unmoored from the supporting structure of the ecosystem in which they had grown all their lives, these trees fell victim to the wind, gravity, and the steep inclines of the Texas Hill Country. Without the intertwined root structure and collective support that undergirds all healthy woods, they were prey to simple physics. Our own uncertainty about how to live our lives in the face of a microscopic parasite that is capable of grievous harm to our species has rightfully shaken us. It has commanded unprecedented
by Tim Thompson
attention and resources and has left us without some of the support that we need to keep us upright and grounded in our own forest. Separation from one another by quarantine and necessary safe distancing has altered but has not dissolved the bonds that hold us together. Human ingenuity has found ways to bridge some gaps, using creative expressions of music and art. The latest in social communication technologies have helped support our need for familial and cultural connections in ways never practiced before. In whatever aspects our world may be forever changed, I am consoled to see our drive to stay connected turns out to be every bit as powerful as any microbial threat.
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.
What’s up with the housing market during the pandemic by Alice Gumbert Lebkuecher
For house hunters wondering whether the coronavirus crisis might lead to a better deal on an upcoming purchase, there’s some bad news: probably not, at least not right now. The housing market, somewhat like the stock market, has been okay lately. It took a significant dive when the coronavirus first took hold in the U.S., but in recent weeks, it’s begun to come back. Everything’s not exactly back to where it was prepandemic, but the sky isn’t falling, either. According to data from Zillow, total housing inventory is down about 20 percent from last year as of the week ending May 9, pending sales are still down more than 10 percent, and new for-sale listings down by about 25 percent. But house values are still up 4.3 percent. Recent data suggests demand is on the rise. So what gives? It seems as though buyers are starting to dip their toes back into the market. Sellers have been more reluctant, but there are still deals to be made — the thing is, because demand outweighs supply, on pricing, they’re not budging. Fast action from the federal government and Federal Reserve has helped to stabilize the housing market, too. To be sure, housing markets are very much a local issue — what’s happening in New York is not the same as what’s happening in Texas. And just because the market seems like it’s okay Wimberley Valley News & Views
today doesn’t mean it will be tomorrow. Now activity is picking back up, some of it pent up from the lost months, but it’s still tracking fairly closely. It appears buyers are returning at a faster rate than sellers. That means overall inventory is falling, which means prices aren’t falling. So, if you have been thinking about selling your home, give me a call today and find out how our market is fairing. This article has been adapted from a Vox article by Emily Stewart May 2020. 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.
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Drought and trees: Here we go again We’re all aware of the impact that the drought of the last several years has had on area water supplies and on Central Texas trees. It can take trees a number of years to recover from effects of prolonged drought, so recurring drought conditions continue to be a concern for tree health. Plant pathologist Dr. Bruce Fraedrich states that “moisture stress adversely affects virtually every physiological process in the plant.”For example, as a defense mechanism against moisture loss, the leaf stomata (small openings that permit gas exchange) will close, but then carbon dioxide is not absorbed and photosynthesis is inhibited. This limits growth and increases the tree’s susceptibility to insect and disease pests. This and other impacts of extended drought often result in yellowing leaves, premature defoliation, crown thinning, and poor shoot growth. And trees can die from the complications caused by drought. With more Texas communities imposing stricter water restrictions, it’s especially important to water wisely and according to community guidelines. I offer a few tips for conservative but effective watering: Concentrate your efforts on your high-value trees. Spread a
two- to three-inch layer of wood-chip mulch out to the tree’s dripline, avoiding the trunk. This will help to moderate temperatures, retain moisture, and improve soil structure. Water in the morning or evening hours to reduce evaporation. Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems. These allow a slow, deep delivery of water and reduce runoff and evaporation. The area to water should be under the canopy over the mulched area. If you water in this manner, your trees will probably only need watering every two to three weeks. Remember that overwatering can also be harmful to landscape plants. With proper moisture delivery, your trees will be more responsive to other treatments or procedures they might need to increase their odds of surviving extreme drought. A Bartlett Tree Experts ISA Certified Arborist can complete an inspection to help ensure your trees are reaching their full health potential.
A Wimberley resident, Steven Austin is a member of the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture and is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist and ISA Tree Worker/Climber Specialist. His expertise includes integrated pest management of trees and shrubs and state-ofthe-art organic treatments. He holds a commercial pesticide license with the Texas Department of Agriculture and is Texas Oak Wilt Certified by the Texas Forest Service. Steven is an Arborist Representative for Bartlett Tree Experts. Call 512-392-1089 or toll-free at 800-443-8733.
Reset, refocus, re-center If you think your goals might need a reset, start here: Refresh: Re-read goals you set in 2019, determine which ones you are still able to pursue. Adjust: Update goals you are pursuing to reflect your current circumstances. Evaluate: Look at your current situation to determine what actions are working and which ones are not. Plan: Write down small steps toward your goals. Include key players and any schedule changes. Act: Carry out your plan, change your habits. Refocus your routine. Small shifts to help you make the most out of your day. Time to move: Walking, jogging, dancing, anything to get you on your feet to shake off negativity. Intentional media: Add a positive podcast or book into your routine. Your health first: Prioritize personal health to feel physically and mentally stronger. Accountability is key: Connect with friends who also want to reset, and take the reset together. Re-center with self-care. When you take some time for selfcare, you will have more energy to support those around you. Journal: Writing down your thoughts helps you process in times of stress. Keep it digital with journaling apps like Day One, Momento (iOS only) or Five Minute Journal. Daily self check-ins: Each morning assess how you’re doing that day. Notice any feelings of anxiety or anger about the day before or the day ahead. Be honest about those emotions throughout your day. Take a personal day: Even if you have been working remote, take a day to go offline. Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Steven Austin
by AJ Harwood
Spend it doing an activity with your family or taking a walk outside. Whatever you do, make sure it leaves you feeling recharged and re-energized. Sleep: This is one of the most neglected self-care activities. Start a bedtime routine that calms you down, so you are ready to sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Aim for at least 7-9 hours per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. I am here to help you in any way I can during these tough times. Please do not hesitate to reach out. If you have questions about what you are hearing in the news, do not hesitate to call me. At the end of the day, real estate is local, and I am happy to walk you through what is going on and how it applies to you in the Wimberley – Texas Hill Country areas. If you are thinking of selling your home, give me a call! I would be honored to help you through the home selling process. The current Wimberley real estate market is hotter than you may think!
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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A magical gateway I grew up a couple rungs on the socioeconomic ladder above “poor.” Even so, my family believed in the power of education. I was told at an early age that I would be going to college, unlike them, and paying for it myself since the family couldn’t. Given that I was (am) short, fat, and slow, the likelihood of an athletic scholarship was slim – but academic ones were within my reach. My plan: academic achievement. I read everything, from ketchup labels to encyclopedias, knowing that reading was the key to learning, and learning the key to achievement. I would often bike a mile or so down the road to my town library, ferrying books back and forth balanced on the handlebars. That library was magical – a gateway to a life my parents could hardly imagine, but somehow knew would be better than theirs. I got the scholarships and that degree. And later, another degree. I had a nice white-collar career in an exciting field, traveled the world, started a business, sold out, and “retired” before I turned 40. Moving to Wimberley, I fell almost by accident into a second career, becoming an educator – paying forward my good fortune -- and a volunteer at the local library, much like but far improved upon the facility that gave me my boost into a different world.
by Dennis Lee
Education gave me my careers and the quite comfortable life I now enjoy. Books and libraries helped give me that education. Today, libraries are so much more than just books, although I would still love them if they were only that. The resources and activities available at our Wimberley Library boggle the mind. I can only hope that they will inspire other youngsters to learn and achieve, and perhaps have wonderful, comfortable, fulfilling lives of their own. Dennis Lee serves as President of Friends of the Wimberley Village Library, the Treasurer of Wimberley Library Foundation, and on the Building Committee of the Wimberley Village Library District Board of Trustees. He loves to read, play music, watch football, and is an admitted genealogy nut.
First time is a charm By now, I'm sure we are all deep in the throes of summer and its inevitable heat. I'm writing this article in the first week of June, so haven't a clue what we will experience this month. May proved to be unusually wet and it's nice to see the greenery as well as to know our water tables are up. We'd gotten so used to our severe drought situation that our fixes for drainage – new hardscaping and usage of some products – seem to have been done in vain. I witnessed this at my own home. Since we can no longer swear to hot, dry summers or super cold winters, it's not a bad time to think about the what if’s. This approach could save not only dollars, but the headache of redoing what we were sure was going to work. Careful planning for all our outdoor wants can not only give us the desired results, but protect them. There are many simple things to implement before more permanent things such as patios, walkways, and a seating area are installed. Area drains, swales to redirect water, berms to maintain the water’s movement, positive drainage away from homes, as well as slight crowning on hardscaping surfaces will help water not pool and move it away from areas it doesn't need to be. Normally, I'm not a fan of planting in July unless your schedule allows for much TLC to get things established. If you must, try to Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Lindley Pond
keep things small as our ground has already heated up, putting undue stress on plants’ root systems. Take time now to use what you have seen with the water to come up with a plan that can be implemented as the war chest allows, keeping in mind that sometimes the pot of gold has to wait for the essentials to be put in place. All worth it at the end of the project that was done only once. Happy July! Give us a call if you need some help, we'd love to make the project perfect. We’re here to help fulfill your “outside dreams”. Call us for a free consultation and design. Lindley Pond is owner of Lindley Pond Landscaping. We are here to make things out of your reach hapLINDLEY POND FONT:or Frederika The Great pen. Don’t hesitate to call email. We’d love to help you design LANDSCAPING FONT: Avenir Book the shady spot you deserve. We’ve been helping folks in Central PURPLE: PMS 2082 GREEN: 7473 Give us a call for design and installation Texas for over 15 PMS years. of your new “lawn.” Contact us at 512-775-1629.
P: 512.775.1629 W: lindleypond.com E: lindleypond171@gmail.com
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July 2020
Microbiological safety of your water by Randy Lawrence
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
840 E. Summit Drive Wimberley, Texas 78676
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The subject of water quality is widely discussed and certainly becomes a topic of interest to new Hill Country residents who may have relocated from a more urban setting and find themselves faced with water problems. Paramount among these issues is ensuring that your water supply is free of bacterial contamination and therefore safe to drink. The most common type of bacteria found in untreated household water supplies is coliform. Ingesting this type of bacteria typically causes varying levels of stomach upset and intestinal issues. If you pay a water bill each month, you can typically rest assured that the water is being disinfected with chlorine, or chloramines, before being distributed to your neighborhood. However, if your household water is supplied by a rain water system, or a privately owned well on your property, it is very important to be aware of the microbiological safety of your water. Without outside interference, it is fairly uncommon for water pumped directly from a conventional water well to be contaminated with bacteria. Examples of outside sources of contamination can include animal enclosures or septic drain fields in close proximity to the wellhead. One common cause for bacterial contamination in household supplies is often a large storage tank which is filled by the well or by a rain water collection system. As beneficial as these storage tanks are, this water is unavoidably exposed to the possibility of contamination, making it necessary to consider adding a disinfection step to your home water treatment system. Compared with the maintenance hassles associated with adding chemicals to your water, ultraviolet disinfection is a much more user friendly method of sterilizing your water supply. These wall mounted units are most effectively placed as the last step of treatment in your system. This way the water is already filtered or treated for minerals before entering the UV unit, which helps to minimize ongoing maintenance. It is important to note that UV bulbs should be changed once per year to maintain maximum effectiveness. Contact a licensed water treatment specialist if you have any concerns about the quality of your water supply. 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
Wimberley Valley News & Views
512-618-1334 (830) 822-3533
full service water treatment company specializing
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July 2020
The appreciation of today So I literally don’t know what our future will look like. I often like to think I do, even though I don’t. But nowadays I can’t even pretend to know. We are scheduling indoor, outdoor, and online classes one week out only, and we don’t know the changes that will happen between the time we schedule them and the time they happen. And any feedback we get from the students is not valid after a few days, for things are changing that fast. I’m getting used to it. Who cares about that burdensome future, anyway. : ) So I’ve realized how much the future doesn’t matter. In the practices we teach, we do the practice, we gain the benefit in the moment, we do it again, we get better, it builds, and we eventually make great gains. We just gotta keep doing the practice. In yoga, we get present in the moment. We are able to tune into something, whether it is within our body, mind, or spirit. We don’t even really know what it is. And then the moment is gone. So we do it again and again. Just because we can do a pose today does not mean that we will be able to do it tomorrow if we don’t keep up with it. Tai Chi creates a nice calm, flowing meditative balance. That is great in the moment, and we hope to carry it into our day. And we hope to improve our practice and find an ability to go deeper.
by Sarah Geenberg
When a karate student does a good kick, I say, “Great kick! Now do that 10,000 times.” You can’t do a good kick 10,000 times right now. But you can do some, and tomorrow you will do more. But you can’t worry about them all right now. So by now I’ve had lots of great practice in dealing with what is right in front of me and nothing more. And I am finding it freeing. Right now, I have all I need and so much more. Sarah wants to thank everybody for supporting the school in various ways during this time. The support has been a lifesaver for the school and has motivated her to keep fighting for it. Please know how much your contributions to small businesses matter, and in a bigger way than the contribution itself.
Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio Sarah Geenberg (512) 971-8528 501 Old Kyle Road Wimberley, TX 78676 WimberleyKarateAndYogaStudio.com
Get kissed by the sun without the damage Warm weather is here and summer fashions are exposing more skin. Many of us with light skin feel a bit awkward since Coco Chanel, of designer fame, made it vogue to have a tan. Instead of damaging and prematurely aging your skin with sun exposure or tanning beds, why not try air-brush tanning? Sunless tanning is a safe, easy way to obtain a natural looking golden glow year round without exposure to harmful UV rays. A colorless, even mist is hand applied to the skin's surface using an airbrush. Once applied, the solution immediately begins to react with the surface skin layer. Within hours, a natural looking tan begins to develop and after 12 hours the color will be fully developed. The tanning solution has been tested and recognized as safe by the FDA. DHA is a naturally occurring sugar that reacts with the skin's proteins to form a long lasting, healthy tanned appearance. The average full body session generally takes 20 minutes to apply and dry. An airbrush tan can last between 5-10 days depending on your skin type and activity level. The sunless tan fades naturally as your body sheds the tanned skin cells. Keep your skin well moisturized to ensure the longest lasting, most even color. Shower, thoroughly exfoliate your skin and shave no less than 8 hours prior to your session. Make sure your skin is squeaky clean, Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Karen Laine, Para-Medical Aesthetician
free from lotion, deodorant and makeup. A blocking cream is applied to areas that tend to absorb with more intensity to give a more even, tanned appearance. Wear comfortable, loose fitting, clothing to your appointment. A dark colored swim suit or undergarments will form your tan lines. You can avoid tan lines by choosing to have a complete body tan. This procedure will be handled with the utmost discretion. Air-brush tanning does not protect you from burning and damaging UV rays. The sunless tan is strictly cosmetic. Always wear appropriate sun screen when exposure to the sun is imminent. Karen Laine is a para-medical aesthetician and makeup artist with 23 years experience. Contact her at 512-847-8052. Her office is located at 14500 Ranch Road 12, suite 20, in Wimberley.
120 Joe Wimberley Blvd. Suite 106 Wimberley Pharmacy Building
Page 9
July 2020
The effects of acid erosion The loss of tooth enamel due to acid erosion and acid wear is a growing epidemic. Studies have found that twentytwo percent of U.S. adults say they experience acid erosion, which can cause tooth sensitivity, transparency, discoloration and more. Acid erosion occurs when acid in the foods and drinks you consume wears away your enamel which is the white-looking outer covering of the tooth. Erosion exposes your teeth's inner layers, which increases sensitivity and makes them more susceptible to cavities or decay. It also can leave your teeth looking cracked, transparent and discolored. Acid erosion also can occur as a result of your teeth's exposure to stomach acids due to some medical conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease and bulimia. In addition, environmental factors, including friction (bruxism) and abrasion (brushing too hard), can cause erosion. Signs and symptoms of acid erosion include sensitivity, discoloration, rounded teeth, transparency, cracks and cupping, or small dents that may appear on the chewing surface of your teeth. You can reduce sensitivity at home by using specially formulated toothpaste or over-the-counter enamel-building products. These products are designed to reharden (remineralize) tooth enamel to
make it more resistant to acid. However, there are no products that can reverse the damage caused by erosion. At the dental office, if the enamel loss is minimal, we may apply a bonding material that will protect your tooth and improve its appearance. If the enamel loss is significant, we may recommend covering it with a crown. If you have concerns regarding your dental health, check in with us at San Marcos Gentle Dental with Dr. Donnelly. You can contact us at 512-396-5225 so we can help you prevent or even treat any concerns of acid erosion. Voted Best Dentist in Hays County and recognized as a Super Dentist in Texas Monthly Magazine.
Patience is difficult These are difficult times and we all are anxious to get this whole COVID thing behind us. We are being warned that it may be hanging around for many more months and we grow impatient. An article in the May 25th TIME Magazine written by Jeffrey Kluger compares the current COVID-19 epidemic with the 1916 polio epidemic, rather than the 1918 influenza epidemic that is the favorite past epidemic used for comparison. I liked his Mark Twain quote “history does not repeat itself, but it often rhymes.” In 1916, there was a polio outbreak in New York City. Five hundred children contracted polio in one week, one thousand children the next, and it kept going all summer. Polio causes paralysis, often permanent, and there weren’t enough iron lungs, the “respirator” of that time, to take care of children who could no longer breathe. Then, as of now, there was no vaccine. Social distancing is difficult now but try it in the summer, without air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, Internet, television, and even radio. They had ridiculous unproven treatments too, like hanging mothballs around the children’s neck or rubbing a mixture of Russian thyme, camphor, and olive oil on the muscles. The outcomes were a little different too. Today, with COVID-19, if you live, you’re probably immune. With polio, if you lived, you were probably permanently paralyzed to some degree. New York City was full of immigrants at the time and they took much of the blame although there’s no evidence they brought on the epidemic. Twenty years later, in the mid-1930s, the first two polio vaccine Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
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
by Kern Deschner
trials were performed. Both ended disastrously. Many children actually caught the polio that they were trying to prevent. A number of children died. The studies were shut down and the researchers publicly shamed. It’s no wonder that vaccine researchers today, who are under a lot of pressure and expectation to come up with a COVID vaccine quickly, are wanting to proceed cautiously. When Jonas Salk came up with his safe and effective polio vaccine in the 1950s, it had been almost 40 years after the 1916 epidemic. Polio now is almost forgotten, but it took 40 years, not the 18 months that is being hoped for now for a possible COVID-19 vaccine. We have become very impatient. Politicians and the public demand a vaccine by the end of the year which every scientist already has said would be miraculous. Vaccines for SARS and MERS, both deadly coronavirus epidemics of this century, took five to seven years to develop, with modern techniques. A COVID-19 vaccine in 18 months would be unprecedented, and researchers might just pull this off, but they need time to be sure it is safe, and it works. It is a blessing that we live in a time when we can be so impatient. Our expectations have become so high, with instant communication and next-day deliveries. Getting quality alpacas takes time. Progress can’t be forced. Building a great alpaca herd teaches you that you have to be incredibly patient. The alpacas have already survived coronavirus, and already have a vaccine. They are in no hurry. 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 July 2020
Behavioral biases can lead to costly mistakes by Scott G. Hackett, CFP®
1. Herd mentality. Many people can be convinced by their peers to follow trends, even if it's not in their own best interests. When investors chase returns and follow the herd into "hot" investments, it can drive up prices to unsustainable levels and create asset bubbles that eventually burst. Joining the crowd and fleeing the stock market after it falls, and/or waiting too long to reinvest, could harm your long-term portfolio returns. 2. Availability bias. People tend to base their judgments on information that immediately comes to mind. This could cause you to miscalculate risks or expected returns. In the same way that watching a movie about sharks can make it seem more dangerous to swim in the ocean, a recent news article can shape how you perceive the quality of an investment opportunity. 3. Confirmation bias. People also tend to search out and remember information that confirms, rather than challenges, their current beliefs. If you have a good feeling about a certain investment, you may be more likely to ignore critical facts and focus on data that supports your opinion. 4. Overconfidence. Some individuals overestimate their skills,
knowledge, and ability to predict probable outcomes. When it comes to investing, overconfidence may cause you to trade excessively and/or downplay potential risks. 5. Loss aversion. Many investors dislike losses much more than they enjoy gains. Because it actually feels bad to experience a financial loss, you might avoid selling an investment that would realize a loss, even though it might be an appropriate course of action. An intense fear of losing money may even be paralyzing. 6. Anchoring effect. When making decisions, people often depend heavily on the first information they receive. For investors, this translates into placing too much emphasis on their purchase price or on recent market performance. Investors who were "anchored" to the financial crisis may still be fearful of the stock market, even after years of strong returns. Another investor who has only experienced years of gains might be inclined to take on too much risk. Having a long-term perspective and a thoughtfully crafted investing strategy may help you avoid expensive, emotiondriven mistakes. 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: Beam me up Scotty! In just a few minutes, I’ll be appearing before one of our fine district judges for a hearing that will take place in a virtual courtroom. COVID-19-related measures have steered the practice of trial law much deeper into the technological world that had already revolutionized the way we present the issues that are of concern to our clients. Just a few days ago, another of our judges offered me and an opposing attorney the opportunity to try a serious personal injury jury trial using Zoom. Even though we will likely have to wait as much as another year to get that case to trial, we declined the opportunity in this instance. The future will likely find us trying jury cases in virtual courtrooms. The news has reported that one such trial has already taken place in another county. For now, though, I want to face witnesses in the same room where I believe I can elicit more truthful and compelling testimony from both friendly and hostile witnesses. I want to be in a space where each juror can watch every move that I make and every expression that crosses my face. I want them to do the same thing with my opponents, believing that with everyone continuously under the microscope, the sense of justice that I feel regarding my clients’ cases will be understood in that proximity of human being to human being. Other aspects of trial practice are also changing. Many, if not Wimberley Valley News & Views
by Roland Brown
most, depositions are currently being taken via Zoom. While I continue to try and take most depositions live for some of the same reasons that I prefer a live jury trial, using Zoom-type technology for depositions is less problematic than trying a case using such technology. I began occasionally taking depositions by telephone decades ago, particularly for shorter depositions of witnesses residing out of state, and I found that process very workable. Accordingly, with the added benefit of being able to see the witness on screen, virtual depositions work nicely. So, as I wrap up this article, I am about to join Judge Boyer and opposing counsel in the virtual courtroom for a motion hearing. Beam me up, Scotty! 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 Areas
512-847-2500
• Personal Injury • Wills and Probate Visit us at RolandsLaw.com
Page 11 July 2020
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Wimberley Valley News & Views
Page 12 July 2020
“Water the dirt—you never know what will pop up.” by Deborah Carter Mastelotto
I think it's obvious I’m a big fan of making the best of any situation. When my daughters were very small and I was a young, single mom struggling to create a career, I never had the funds for a highly polished and landscaped living situation. We always had to make due with a fixerupper rent house, and I’d try to get the landlord to pay the water bill. I smile now as I remember standing in the dirt at the end of a very long day, a citronella candle burning on the front porch and a watering hose in my hand. Watering plants can be satisfying, almost like a meditation, but watering dirt requires a strong faith in and hope for the future. As I water, I visualize sprigs of grass and flowering shrubs. It didn’t take long before I saw sprigs of grass sprouting in the oncebarren earth and I'd pay special attention to these. Often when I didn't have time to do the whole yard, I'd just soak those tiny, hopeful sprouts. And they spread. Eventually they would connect with other tiny, hopeful sprouts and we would have a yard of sorts, with holes. Then, I’d hand water the holes. When I bought the property where my salon is now, we had to remove about five years of oak tree leaves to create a front yard and parking lot. The ground beneath the leaves was rich and black, but barren. So, when the leaves were finally gone I started watering the dirt. In about a year winter rye
popped up in the back area and one side of my front yard had grass. As I watered the dirt on the other side, a client walked by. “What are you doing?” she asked me. “I'm watering my lawn,” I said. “Well, it looks like you’re watering dirt!” she said. I smiled, because that was exactly what I was doing. I think about this frequently while looking at our new reality, the social distancing lifestyle, the radical changes in our once-secure jobs and finances. How interesting it is that so many people rebel against the most basic of the changes. They want things back the way they were. They want their green lawn, now. But right now we need to look for the sprouts, the tiny signs of possible growth in a barren landscape. I have a friend whose college professor told him to, “Look at who is still working through this pandemic. Those professions are the future.” So, we could do the same thing with our lives. Where is the spark of inspiration, the movement (no matter how tiny), the sprig of green? Pay attention and water it. You never know what kind of lush green new possibility will grow from it and it just might make you really happy. Happier, possibly, than your old reality. Soon you won’t be watering dirt anymore. Deborah Carter Mastelotto is a pathological entrepreneur, a minor student of quantum physics, unapologetic observer of human nature and undefatigable advice-giver. pinkchronicity.com. Salon located at 511 Old Fitzhugh Rd. 512-447-2888
Local expertise you can trust. Life can be complicated. As your local Dripping Springs Allstate Agency, we understand the unique coverage needed for the homes, cars and small businesses in our community, and which coverage you may not need. We are experts at getting you the protection you want with the savings you deserve. My team and I are here to help simplify your insurance. Call or stop by our office located behind Flores Mexican Restaurant.
Chris Porter
Local expertise you can trust. Donna Porter
Kerrie Donahue
Michael Ramirez
Terry Porter
Chris Porter Insurance Agency
512-792-2244
2440 E Hwy 290, Ste E-22 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (behind Flores Restaurant)
Wimberley Valley News & Views
Page 13 July 2020
Big name coverage. Home town service.
Summer fun by Tracy Sheffield, RVT
Wimberley2x3.pdf
6/6/07
Summer is here and it brings summer fun and summer not so much fun. In Central Texas there are several not so fun things about summer. First and foremost, the heat. Animals both large and small need access to shade and water. Many animals really struggle with the heat. Llamas and alpacas are susceptible to heat stress. Some horses have a sweating disorder that leaves them vulnerable to the heat. Northern breeds of dogs, Huskies, Samoyeds and St. Bernards, to name a few, can find it difficult to tolerate the heat. Even rabbits find heat more problematic than cold. Be sure to have cool spots for all your animal friends. Spring and summer bring the great joy of allergies. Allergies can manifest as both skin and respiratory conditions. There are medications that can ease the unpleasant symptoms of allergies but often it is allergy testing and allergy kits (shots or drops) that will finally provide relief. Snakes are active throughout the summer. Remember, if you have food for snakes, you will have snakes. If you raise chickens, snakes will consider the eggs a food source. If you have horses or livestock, rodents will enjoy the feed and if you have rodents, you will have snakes. If you have a pond that attracts frogs, you will have snakes. Rattlesnake vaccination should be considered for all dogs and horses. Fireworks on the fourth of July, people love and dogs can be traumatized by. Make sure you have everything ready before the holiday if your dog has noise phobia. Talk with your veterinarian about medications, there are several that can help your dog. Some dogs don’t respond well to thunderstorms. Many dogs are helped by white noise. Make sure your dog is microchipped. Every year many dogs try to run away from the noise and end up lost. Microchipping can make all the difference when it comes to reuniting a lost dog with its owner. Stay safe and have a wonderful summer.
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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 July 2020
Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country
978 Covered Bridge MLS 1874009 Stunning 5/4 in La Ventana on 2.5 Acres. Pool, waterfall, much more! $1,350,900 Greg Ward
New
New
501 Valley Ridge Rd MLS 2521914 Long distance views from 3/2 on 5 acres! $495,000 Debbie Donaldson
265 Tulley Ct MLS 9328243 3/2.5 Backs to greenbelt , views of the hills and meadow. Gated community. $425,000 Alice Lebkuecher
509 Deer Lake MLS 2366138 Adorable 2/2 on 2.8 acres Lone Man Creek waterfront $460,000 Alice Lebkuecher
New
000 Joe Wimberley Blvd MLS 9981986 Commercial 1.169 Acres, Zoned C1 $325,000 Jim Donaldson
TBD Lazy L Ln MLS 6798483 Great Blanco River lot. 255’ of river frontage. Flat building site. $450,000 Alice Lebkuecher
20 Fallbrook Cir MLS 5584333 Level lot Woodcreek POA jurisdiction $25,000 Alice Lebkuecher
Mickey Brown 512-468-4509
8000 FM 2325 MLS7765748 2 homes on 26 Acres. Unrestricted . Potential wedding venue, brewery, winery. $1,699,900 Debbie Donaldson
400 Spoke Hollow MLS 2547804 7.6 acres with 180 Degree Panoramic views. $375,000 Mickey Brown
140 Sunrise Canyon Rd MLS 5339036 Texas Style Farmhouse, 3 Acres long distance views. $799,000 Alice Lebkuecher
New
New
New
6 Honeysuckle MLS4083127 Spacious, like new 3/2, large deck, privacy fenced. $349,000 Greg Ward
109 Pink Granite Blvd MLS 4900507 Stately 4/5 on cul-de-sac with large fenced private yard. 2 master suites! $484,900 Ross Pelc
621 Las Colinas MLS 1233389 Great 3/2 on 1.3 acres. Has office on cul-de-sac. $425,000 Debbie Donaldson
New
New
235 Smith Creek Rd MLS 3968200 Cabin on Smith Creek! 3/2 log style home on 2.49 Acres. $475,000 Jim Donaldson
13462 RR 2325 MLS 3576085 Gorgeous Views Wil sell as one piece 18+/- OR 3 options: 11.10, 15.18 or 11.30 acres . $360,000 Mickey Brown
Alice Lebkuecher 713-253-1311
Jim Donaldson 830-857-3371
Debbie Donaldson 512-665-9588
Linda Germain 512-924-3661
000 Fischer Store Rd MLS8294253 Beautiful 20 Acre tract! Convenient location! $598,000 Jim Donaldson
Greg Ward 512-648-7538
Ross Pelc 512-270-1703
13210 R anc h &RViews d.1 2 , St e A, Wimberley, TX WimberleyPar tn er s . co m Wimberley Valley News Page 15 July 2020
REAL PROPERTIES
Wimberley Valley News & Views
Page 16 July 2020