Wimberley Valley News and Views September 2020

Wimberley Valley

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

NEWS & VIEWS Volume 23 Issue 10 • Wimberley, Texas • September 2020 Postal Patron

T he Wimberley Way of Living

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 1

September 2020

Con tra ct I n

Want Results? Call us today!

5D ays

Randall Morris & Associates

ct ra nt ing o C nd Pe

W

213 Mesa $545,000 - Molly Wendt

600 FM 2325 Restaurant Space For Lease - Melinda

201 Windmill Cv $749,000 - Traci Maxwell

335 Eagles Nest Clay Ewing

TBD Mt. Sharp Rd $906,500 - Don Montague

ct ra nt ing o C nd Pe

700 Little Ranches $430,000 - Zach Adkisson

Melinda Everett, Associated Broker 512-695-5963

Traci Maxwell, Associated Broker 512-393-9996

Zach Adkisson, Sales Associate 512-217-4776

Molly Wendt, Sales Associate 512-940-1711

Clay E Ewing, Associated Broker 512-922-7475

Don Montague Sales Associate 512-921-1014

Serving the Wimberley area • Century 21 Randall Morris & Associates • 13320 Ranch Road 12 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

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

Kurt Kimmerle

Laura Kilber

Lee Pruden

REALTOR® Associate

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

512.667.8278

512.376.8098

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14500 RR 12

Marti Eveleigh REALTOR®

512.618.1342

Wimberley Mountain Plaza

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Associate

Suite 2

Angel Laughlin

Ann Marie Skunda

April Carver

Barbara Latimer

Betsi Schaefer

Broker

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR® Associate

Broker/Branch Mgr.

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Maureen Shanklin

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Info@HillsofTexasSky.com

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September 2020

Reflection

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Even though it’s still roasting hot here in Wimberley, when the calendar rolls into September something clicks in my mind about cooler weather. I was drawn to the banks of Cypress Creek recently; always a meditative place for me with its majestic cypress trees, deep shade and lazy water. It was hot but that magical combination ameliorated any discomfort I felt.

At some point I realized I was staring at one tree in particular. Soaring grandly above the creek with its roots thrust down into the water as well as confidently crawling along the bank, a solid respect grew in me as I began thinking about what it took for it to not only survive all that it had, but thrive. Clearly it had weathered some storms with evidence of broken branches and pock marks along its thick bark. Yet its elegant internal design to survive difficult times persevered.

Without doubt we have the same magnificent design inside us that prompts our own abilities to weather storms large and small, to bend when the wind blows hard and to dig deeper when we need to find our sustaining source of life and growth. Sometimes we can’t predict when these storms will occur and they catch us off guard, but we are built to carry on through those times.

Our present situation is challenging, on many levels. One of the best courses of action to follow during this time is to stretch further toward what we know will aid us, that which lies at the bedrock of who we are to find the nourishment that we need. And to help others find theirs. That is how we move through this temporary but stressful time and emerge better because of it.

Thank you for joining us.

WVNewsViews.com Wimberley Valley News & Views

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

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

You can also pick one up from local merchants.

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

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

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

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September 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.

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

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September 2020

A distinctive species As we come to the end of one of the weirdest summers any of us has experienced, I wonder if our time of social distancing, Zoom meetings and mask-wearing has fundamentally changed us. It is, perhaps, the propensity of humans to suppose that the things they are going through are unique, and that no one has ever before been through such trials and tribulations.

Probably, our technology has made our year quite distinctive, but many of our challenges have an air of familiarity. Children were often kept away from public pools in my childhood for fear of their being exposed to the deadly poliovirus. The 1918 influenza pandemic ravaged my grandparents’ families just as the plague and HIV and smallpox and Ebola have done to countless cultures over time. Historically, public health officials have often called for quarantining and facial masks to combat the spread of these threats.

Nature responds to existential threats in a lot of curious and unusual ways. Devastating fires often pave the way for whole new generations and mixes of forest species. Even a single tree falling provides new sunlight and nutrients for the growth and expansion of surrounding trees. Diseases that wipe out most of a single species of trees usually leave a few individual trees that have a natural resistance to it. These trees may become the progenitors of a whole new stronger and healthier species.

by Tim Thompson

Humans, though, have the capacity to reach outside simple genetic survival to practice distinctly human coping mechanisms like kindness, making sacrifices for others, and imagining the greater good. We have seen a lot of these this year in the exhausted faces of medical workers, in the donations to imperiled neighborhoods, in the wearing of masks and social distancing that can help bring an end to this pandemic.

Doing things for others who have no capacity to repay us is part of what makes our species distinctive in all the world. I hope we can count on our humanity to reach out, beyond this crisis, to bring us together for the greater good of the world.

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.

Five simple ways to cut your water bill

by Alice Gumbert Lebkuecher

We could all do a little more to curb our water usage, whether we're motivated by concern for the environment or a desire to shrink our water bills. Here are five places around the house where you could save some water: 1) Washing machine Many machines allow you to choose a load size, and then the machine fills with a corresponding amount of water. Shopping for a new model?

Select one that's Energy Star certified.

2) Dishwasher Again, look for the Energy Star certification, but also make sure the appliance offers a light wash option, which uses less water.

New dishwasher not in the cards? Only run yours when full to save on water.

3) Toilet Commodes with the WaterSense label use 60 percent less water per flush than traditional toilets. On older models, check to make sure the flapper closes properly, a common source of water leaks.

4) Showerhead For a fast fix, take shorter showers in lieu of baths. A low-flow showerhead can up the ante, reducing both your water bill and Wimberley Valley News & Views

electric bill (because there's less water to heat).

5) Sprinklers Automated sprinkler systems allow you to program a schedule based on local watering restrictions. Models with Wi-Fi connectivity can adjust that schedule based on weather forecasts.

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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September 2020

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-of-the-art organic treatments. He holds a commercial pesticide license with the Texas Department of Agriculture and is Texas Oak Wilt Certified by the Texas Forest Service.

Steven is an Arborist Representative for Bartlett Tree Experts. Call 512-392-1089 or toll-free at 800-443-8733.

Contactless Payment 101 As we come through the impact of COVID-19, contactless forms of payment have become more common over the past several months and, going forward, will be important in everyday life. Contactless payment tech is easy to use and healthier than exchanging cash, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for safety and convenience at the grocery store, takeout counter or in some cases, the gas pump.

As this technology continues to catch on in your community, and across the world, here’s information on how it all works.

• NFC (Near-field communication) is the tech that allows for payment exchange between objects and card readers, so you can pay with your smartphone or smartwatch, or by hovering your card over the reader — no swipe or chip insert required.

• Contactless is one of the safest ways to pay. Account information is encrypted and not actually transferred to the retailer. Still, prioritize safety with these tips: Use only trusted payment platforms. Keep strong passwords and enable facial or fingerprint recognition where possible. Immediately lock a lost or stolen phone.

• Popular mobile payment methods: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay. Accepted at most major grocery stores and retailers, Grocery stores: Costco, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Food and CofWimberley Valley News & Views

by Steven Austin

by AJ Harwood

fee, McDonald’s, Panera Bread, Peet’s Coffee, Macy’s, Staples, Target Gas Stations, Chevron, Texaco An easier way to pay friends, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) try these apps.

Cash App Square, Inc. $250/week with an unverified account. Up to $7,500/week when identity is verified. Facebook Messenger Facebook $9,999/transaction when identity verified. PayPal no limit for a verified account. ($10,000 max per transaction). Venmo Service of PayPal $299.99/week with an unverified account. $2,999.99/week when identity is verified. Zelle Major Banks (including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JP Morgan Chase and others) Up to $2500/day for most standard checking accounts with major banks. $500/week on Zelle unlinked to your bank. Bank transfer fees vary by service, but typically you can transfer funds immediately for a small fee or within 1-3 business days for free.

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. 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. If there is anything I can do to help you and your family, please do not hesitate to reach out. If you are thinking of selling your home, give me a call! I would be honored to help you through the home selling process.

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September 2020

A vital part of community I lived the first 14 years of my life in a remote corner of Wyoming and attended a one-room school serving grades 1 to 8 with zero reading material other than texts. My dad’s modest eclectic library and magazines like Life, National Geographic and Saturday Evening Post were mine to use and dinner table discussions significantly supplemented my education.

When we moved to a city Dad made sure I had a card from the nearby library where every visit felt like an eagerly awaited Christmas morning. The high school library, the university library or the public library where I could peruse aged newspapers on microfiche never failed to bring me joy. Years later we retired to Wimberley where I eagerly awaited our first utility bill so I could prove my residency and get a library card.

In the ensuing 30 years I have seen the Village Library more than double in size and evolve as the needs and expectations changed. It is no longer the quiet space primarily for adults but is a vital part of the community – still with some quiet – but joyful noise echoes as toddlers pick out books or CDs and teens create 3-D items or films. Seniors show up early for chair yoga or for assistance in preparing tax forms and faithful volunteers help make all this happen.

by Jo Bourke

The Library Board has once again recognized changing needs with plans for a major addition that will benefit all users. I am happy to support this effort as a sustainer knowing that “the library” will always be essential for generations to come.

Jo Bourke has served on the Library Board of Directors and, with the cooperation of the Library, established an adult literacy program that served the community for 15 years. She loves reading, knitting, and organizing projects – some of which only she thinks need organization!

We help bring the world into focus The Wimberley Village Library puts an enormous amount of time and energy into programs and books that help children of all ages learn about the world around them and the world beyond — the world of imagination and creativity and curiosity. Did you know you can help us do all this by donating any amount? Help us help you!

You Can Help Us: www.wimberleylibrary.org

Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 7

September 2020

Getting soft water doesn’t have to be hard

by Randy Lawrence

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

840 E. Summit Drive Wimberley, Texas 78676

www.HackettFinancialGroup.com Scott@HackettFinancialGroup.com

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Considering all of the different water-related products currently being advertised, deciding which technology is right for your water can be confusing for homeowners. Most are aware that a water softener is necessary, yet many will admit that these systems are a mystery to them.

A softener is considered point of entry treatment, meaning that all of the water entering your home is treated as it flows through the unit. Water softeners are a proven method of eliminating scale and salt-based ion exchange is the only technology that physically removes the calcium from your water. Salt-free alternatives leave hardness minerals in your water, which will continue to cause scaling and corrosion. Many current marketing campaigns for alternatives make unsubstantiated claims regarding the efficacy of these products and seek to capitalize on myths surrounding salt-based softening by using outdated facts or overstating figures. Many of these technologies are not new, but simply being re-introduced with catchy new names. What you may not know is that advances in the water treatment industry have resulted in softening systems which are far more salt-efficient and user-friendly than ever.

Water softener pricing and quality can vary greatly. There are units available from $500 all the way up to $5,000. The lower priced units do not include installation, which can significantly change the final cost. Then there’s the question of who will make repairs when they become necessary. On the other end, the highest priced units are often so proprietary that parts and service come at a premium. The goal is to find a reliable treatment system that can last for many years without paying too much.

Unless you are a serious do-it-yourselfer, it’s probably in your best interest to purchase a unit from a licensed independent dealer who can properly size and install the best unit for your home and remain available after installation to make any necessary adjustments to the equipment. A simple water analysis and a few simple questions will determine the proper softener for your home.

Superior service before and after the sale

MadeintheShadeof Wimberley.com

Randy Lawrence is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With over 20 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and surrounding areas for over a decade.

“When you want quality, call a pro.”

ProQuality Water Systems

Randy Lawrence A

in customer service

&

integrity

Certified by the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality Class III License # WT0002693

Wimberley Valley News & Views

512-618-1334 (830) 822-3533

full service water treatment company specializing

www.proqualitywater.com

Page 8

September 2020

The challenge We are conducting The Challenge for our students right now, and I invite everyone to participate. Exercise, breath work, and connection are vitally important, especially now. These things can help keep us healthy and balanced.

Exercise: We challenge you to exercise two-and-one-half to five hours a week. That can be in any form. Walking is the best. We are still doing free yoga videos on our Facebook page, too. The main thing is to do something that you enjoy. Don’t overdo. If anything, underdo. That will give you a solid, fun base on which to build. You’ll find that with consistency, what was once difficult will become very easy.

Breath work: Again, we have videos on our Facebook page that guide you through a few minutes of breathing. You can also find great videos on YouTube. Taking ten breaths to the ratio of 1:2:4 inhale, hold, exhale will give you a great reset throughout the day, too. For example, breathe in for five, hold for ten, and exhale for twenty. This will clean out and strengthen your lungs. Try to let your belly get big when you inhale. That ensures you are using your diaphragm. Do breath work at least three times a week.

Connect: This can be done in many ways. The most fun is to exercise with someone, at a safe distance. Try to focus on talking

by Sarah Geenberg

about fun things and things you are looking forward to. Make an effort to call someone to catch up a few times a week. Ask them if there is anything you can do for them. Laugh! Try to connect as much as you can.

Have fun, and enjoy! Doing these things will help a lot, and I truly wish everyone a relaxed, balanced, cheerful time.

We now offer small outside and in-studio classes as well as online.

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

Omega-3s and your skin

by Karen Laine, Para-Medical Aesthetician

You’ve heard about Omega-3s benefits for your health, but did you know they are crucial for supple, clear, healthy skin?

Skin cells are short-lived with a rapid turnover rate, meaning nutrients needed to build new cells must readily be on hand. Omega-3s are a key component in the fatty membranes of skin cells.

Without this special type of fat on hand, the body must build new cells with inferior fats, resulting in less than optimal skin health. As we age, getting enough Omega-3s is even more important as they are necessary to ensure healthy cell membranes that keep skin hydrated.

The primary cause of skin aging is the sun’s UV rays. Think of Omega-3s as internal sunscreen. The two kinds of Omega-3s found in fish oil, EPA and DHA, increase resistance to UV light and act as protection from harmful free-radicals formed when unprotected skin is exposed to the sun. EPA goes one step further to help block the release of UV-induced enzymes that break down collagen, which leads to fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin.

Any condition that ends in itis indicates a problem associated with inflammation. Dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea and eczema are inflammatory conditions of the skin. If you’ve visited a dermatologist lately, chances are he/she probably didn’t speak with you about your diet. A number of credible studies strongly correlate the Western diet with inflammatory skin conditions, acne and oily skin, Wimberley Valley News & Views

specifically, dairy, refined carbohydrates and grain foods. Along with diet changes, Omega-3s can improve these conditions by greatly reducing silent inflammation in your body. Unlike acute inflammation from surgery or injury, silent (chronic) inflammation is much more dangerous because it isn’t readily apparent. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease, arthritis and possibly even some types of cancer.

Whether your goal is to fight aging, reduce inflammation, clear up acne or simply improve your skin’s health and appearance, high-quality Omega-3 supplements are great additions to your beauty regimen.

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 12o Joe Wimberley Blvd. Suite 106, in Wimberley.

120 Joe Wimberley Blvd.

Suite 106 Wimberley Pharmacy Building

Page 9

September 2020

Understanding aging and oral health The aging population in the United States is growing. Older patients should know that maintaining good oral health is vital to having a healthy smile and optimal overall health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), oral pain, difficulty eating (due to missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures, cavities and gum disease) and tooth loss are all signs of oral health problems in aging adults. Dr. Donnelly can help prevent and detect these oral health problems.

What oral conditions am I more prone to as I age? Dental caries (tooth decay) is one of the main causes of tooth loss or edentulism. About 23 million people are completely edentulous (toothless), according to the American College of Prosthodontists.

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. According to CDC, one out of every two American adults age 30 and older have had gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

Xerostomia (dry mouth) is when the salivary glands do not

work properly, the amount of saliva in the mouth decreases, resulting in dry mouth, which can lead to decay. Prescription and overthe-counter medications are the most common cause of dry mouth.

Dry mouth can make it difficult to eat, swallow, taste, and speak.

Oral cancer, typically is painless in its early stages but can become painful as it spreads. Come see Dr. Donnelly immediately if you observe any of the following, changes in the way your teeth fit together; oral sores that bleed easily or don't heal; lumps, thickening, rough spots or crusty or eroded areas in your mouth; or difficulty swallowing, chewing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue. Dr. Donnelly always performs a head and neck exam to screen for oral cancer during your routine checkups.

If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about how you can maintain your oral health as you age, 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!

Roll up your sleeves “Don’t go yet! I need for you to sign these,” my office manager yelled at me in June as I was leaving work. She handed me a stack of condolence cards, cards we always have sent to the families of our patients who have passed away from any cause, but I’ve never seen a stack like this. Thirteen of them at one time. I looked up at her questioningly and she said, “COVID. I knew a lot of these folks.” Thirteen! There in my hand were representations of thirteen lost lives. It suddenly was a very heavy stack of cards.

My personal moment of terror came a week later. Rhonda texted me on a Friday that she was positive for COVID. I tested the next day and so was I. I thought, “if I am going to die, I’m going to eat all the breakfast tacos I want.” We were fortunate. We didn’t die and now I have to get rid of those pounds. We both recovered without incident. But, we did have to quarantine.

I know I have flown my “curmudgeon flag” in these articles and I’ve always rolled my eyes at how easily we Americans like to assign the term “hero“ to someone who’s just doing their job. But then it becomes personal, and I have to take down the curmudgeon flag. For us, Jenny, our ranch manager, and Jose, our ranch worker, are heroes that kept the ranch going day after boiling day for two weeks while we recovered. They didn’t complain, they just rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Okay, that is heroic.

When I was finally over COVID, I was immediately thrust Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Robert Donnelly, DDS

by Kern Deschner

back into the hospitals at work. Boy, had things changed! Entire floors were opened that had formally been closed. Plastic sheeting was everywhere, air filters were running, and all the nurses were now wearing hazmat from head to toe. I’ve already had COVID and should be safe, but even I was afraid to walk in there! These nurses, who have not had COVID yet, walk onto those wards every day, all day. Some have quit but most of them rolled up their sleeves or, I should say, covered up their sleeves and went to work.

That is heroic.

Now I am hoping that maybe I can do a little heroic thing myself. When I was in the ICU talking to the doctors, they found out I had survived COVID and they looked at me imploringly. In my blood, I am carrying around antibodies that these patients desperately need. The ICU is being restricted to one bag of antibodies per day. There’s a waiting list of a dozen patients. Apparently, those antibodies are what turns people around, saves lives. They are desperately short and I am carrying them in me, lots of them, in my plasma, that I can donate. So, my turn to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I don’t want to have to sign any more of those cards.

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 September 2020

How to avoid financial scams targeting older individuals

by Scott G. Hackett, CFP®

If you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam artist who is trying to steal money or personal information, you're not alone. According to the Senate Special Committee on Aging, older Americans lose an estimated $2.9 billion annually to fraud and exploitation, a number that is probably substantially underreported.

Most scams start with a call, an email, a text, or an official-looking letter that appears to be from a government agency or a legitimate company. Do not trust caller ID. Sometimes the scam artist will go door-to-door soliciting business or donations to charity.

Scam artists are very good at gaining the trust of well-meaning people by convincingly impersonating someone authoritative, knowledgeable, or trustworthy — such as an IRS agent, a tech repair person, or even a relative. They play on your sympathy or make convincing threats to pressure you to go along with a scam.

"Send money or provide personal information right now," they say, "if you want to help someone or prevent something bad from happening." Here are some typical scenarios.

• IRS scam: "You owe back taxes and penalties. Send payment

immediately via a wire transfer, or you will be arrested."

• Sweepstakes scam: "Congratulations, you've won a prize! To collect it, provide us with your bank account number so we can deposit a check."

• Grandparent scam: "Hi Grandma, it's me. Don't you recognize my voice? I've been in an accident/been arrested and need money for car repairs/bail. Please transfer the money as quickly as possible and don't tell anyone because I'm embarrassed."

• Return Preparer fraud: Sometimes scam artists pose as legitimate tax preparers and try to take advantage of unsuspecting taxpayers by committing refund fraud or identity theft. It's important to choose a tax preparer carefully since you are legally responsible for what's on your return, even if it's prepared by someone else.

If you are targeted, never give out personal information or send money. You don't need to make a quick decision. Call a friend, a relative, or the police for advice. Report the scam immediately to a fraud hotline such as the Senate Committee's toll-free hotline, 855-303-9470.

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: Do we really need courts?

Someone, whose profession should have caused that person to know better, once posted a meme depicting a law enforcement officer’s knee on an individual’s neck with the caption, “Sometimes justice happens before the case ever reaches the courthouse.” (The meme predated the George Floyd incident.) With tensions running high in this country, it is easy for us to forget that our nation was founded, in part, by people fleeing from an oppressive government that operated with a similar disregard for the rule of law.

The 5th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution makes it clear that justice has a defined pattern, and we risk a return to the excesses that led to the States declaring their independence from England if we take shortcuts. “No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury,... nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law;…”

I was privileged to have a father who served both as an aggressive district attorney and later as an equally aggressive criminal defense attorney. He and I tried murder cases and other cases together. Whether prosecuting or defending, he staunchly fought for the rule of law and he was as quick to call a bad law enforcement Wimberley Valley News & Views

by Roland Brown

officer to account as he was to bring the hammer down on a drug dealer. A believer in the constitutional rights of every person, he knew that even an imperfect court was far superior to “frontier justice” meted out on the street by an unelected, and sometimes inadequately trained, officer. We must be supportive of and thankful for the men and women who risk their lives daily on our behalf, even when doing something as seemingly simple as conducting a traffic stop. We must be equally demanding that our law enforcement personnel be properly trained and then use only the reasonable force necessary to discharge the duties delegated to them by “we the people.” Those duties do not include acting as judge, jury or executioner. That is why we have and need our courts.

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 September 2020

Health care is a collaborative relationship. We can all agree that our current conventional model could use some refreshing. Our model at Functional Wellness Clinic is relationship-based care whether you are seeing us using the membership route or you choose to go the “a la carte” option. We purposefully keep our practice small to give you the quality time that you need to obtain optimal health. We work to keep you well.

Gabria Cathcart, FNP-C, IFMCP

We offer transparent pricing and reasonable fees so that you can have access to the one-on-one care that is needed to maintain health.

We believe deeply in holistic care as we have seen it time and time again to help patients get better when you are looking at the whole person not just a set of symptoms. Changing your health takes time and dedication both from the practitioner and the patient. In working with you from this perspective better health outcomes are achieved.

At Functional Wellness Clinic and Consultation, we are a clinic that is all about root-cause resolution... digging deep into what causes your disease. Start your journey to health today with our unique functional and lifestyle medicine membership programs.

Memberships to begin August 1, 2020. Please visit our website for more benefits of memberships and in-depth detail of each plan.

Primary Care Membership $125 per month & includes: • 5 visits per month, includes telemedicine visits, as needed • Relationship-based care • Chronic disease and acute illness management • Transparent pricing • Extended visits • Complete ICD-10 billing so your HSA and Flex dollars can apply

Functional Medicine Membership $189 per month & includes: • 2 visits per month, includes telemedicine visits, as needed • Relationship-based care • Transparent pricing • Extended visits • Complete ICD-10 billing so your HSA and Flex dollars can apply

512-887-1817 • www.functionalwellnesscc.com 15572 Ranch Road 12 Suite 3 Wimberley, Texas 78676 Wimberley Valley News & Views

Page 12 September 2020

Fall into the season As we approach our much awaited Hill Country fall, now is a great time to think about what worked, what struggled through our hot summer, what are different ways to minimize our water usage and still have our dream space.

Removing some of our turf grasses and replacing with either mixtures of low native grasses and wildflower seeds is one way. Another, implementing large areas of native and adaptive plant beds. To add some interest, those beds can be bermed, with taller plants on the high points and lower trailing plants at front and back. Thus giving depth to an area that might otherwise be flat. If space is limited yet your kitchen is a second retreat, stock tanks raised up on limestone blocks can become herb and veggie containers without taking up too much room.

My latest favorite “mulch” other than river rock, is first cut cedar mulch. Again, thinking from a maintenance and replacement standpoint, it doesn’t fade, doesn’t wash, is less expensive than other mulches and looks completely natural. After a scorcher like this summer, installation of sun shades on tall poles or connected to your home creates a nice shady area to relax. They come in many different shapes, colors and sizes and another way to brighten otherwise flat landscaping.

by Lindley Pond

Another fun thing to do is to install a butterfly garden, which should also attract hummingbirds. Giving back while at the same time creating something great to look at. The sky’s the limit!

Fall is one of the best times to plant trees and woodsy items.

We are here to help you. Whether you need a plan, a few ideas, or the manpower to see it all come together, just let us know and we’ll be glad to help!

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 happen. Don’t hesitate to call or email. We’d love to help you design LINDLEY POND FONT: Frederika The Great the shady spot you deserve.

We’ve LANDSCAPING FONT: Avenir Book been helping folks in Central Texas for over 15 years.

Give us a call for design and installation PURPLE: PMS 2082 PMS 7473 of your new GREEN: “lawn.”

Contact us at 512-775-1629.

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

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 September 2020

Big name coverage. Home town service.

Ringworm

by Tracy Sheffield, RVT

Wimberley2x3.pdf

6/6/07

Worms can be a common problem in dogs and cats. Now ask yourself, when is a worm not a worm?

The answer is ringworm.

Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus. It is the most confusing name. Not only is it not a worm, the lesions caused by the fungus are not always ring-shaped. Now that we know what it isn't, let's talk about what it is.

It is a fungus that belongs to a specialized group called dermatophytes. There are several species of dermatophytes but generally there are three species that infect dogs and cats. These three can also infect humans.

An infected pet will generally show round patches of hair loss.

As the fungus multiplies the lesions may become larger and irregularly shaped. They are not usually itchy but they can sometimes become inflamed and develop a scabby covering.

Ringworm is transmitted by direct contact with the fungus. It may be passed by direct contact or by handling objects or touching surfaces that have had direct contact. The fungus can live in the environment for many months on these surfaces.

Other skin problems can look like ringworm. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important. Diagnosing ringworm is most accurately done by a fungal culture of the hair or skin. A positive culture can sometimes be confirmed in a few days but sometimes the fungal spores may be slow to grow and getting a diagnosis may take up to a month.

Treatment is important so the fungus is not spread to other pets or to people. The most common treatments are a combination of topical therapies, such as shampoos or creams, and systemic treatments, administration of drugs by mouth. Successful treatment can take time. Six weeks or even much longer may be necessary to eradicate the infection. If treatment is stopped too soon the disease may recur.

So it's not a worm, and it may not be ring-shaped but it is ringworm.

5:36:10 PM

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Wimberley Office

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

Tracy Sheffield, RVT works with her husband, Dr. Mike Sheffield, at Wimberley Veterinary Clinic. Wimberley Veterinary Clinic sees all kinds of animals, dogs, cats, horses, birds, pocket pets, reptiles and other exotic animals. Make your boarding reservations online at WimberleyVetClinic.com or call us at 512-847-5630.

•Septic Pumping •Cleaning •Repairs DRIPPING SPRINGS: 858-2040 BUDA: 312-0002 WIMBERLEY: 847-5070 AUSTIN: 445-5489 LAKE TRAVIS: 263-3993 SAN MARCOS: 396-7070

Wimberley Valley News & Views

847-5630 • 12605 RR 12, Suite 1

Page 14 September 2020

Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country New

1504 Caliche Rd MLS 4673856 This beautiful 6.55 acres to build your dream home! Views, gated neighborhood! $450,000 Jim Donaldson

TBD E. Summit MLS 8606714 Beautiful 1.6 acre lot. Nice oaks and distant views. River park access. $175,000 Alice Lebkuecher

New

Active/Contingent

500 Rancho Grande MLS 6588684 2.6 acre corner lot. Access to a private HOA park on Lone Man Creek. $159,900 Alice Lebkuecher

100 Teton Cir MLS 2720912 $575,000 Beautiful 4 BR 3 BA home on 9+ acres in Summer Mountain Ranch. Jim Donaldson

Active/Contingent

000 Joe Wimberley Blvd MLS 9981986 Commercial 1.169 Acres, Zoned C1 $325,000 Jim Donaldson

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. $775,000 Alice Lebkuecher

Pending

Active/Contingent

Pending

300 Windmil Cove #D MLS 5647086 50 acre tract in River Mountain Ranch. Private Blanco River Park.Ag exempt $1,161,000Alice Lebkuecher

6028 Mustang Valley Trl $400,000 Alice Lebkuecher

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

13 Townhouse Circle MLS 3263916 3/3, steps from Cypress Creek $179,900 Linda Germain

235 Smith Creek Rd MLS 3968200 Cabin on Smith Creek! 3/2 log style home on 2.49 Acres. $475,000 Jim Donaldson

300 Windmil Cove #C MLS 3372274 Beautiful 15Acre tract in River Mtn Ranch. Blanco River Park access. $349,600Alice Lebkuecher

000 Fischer Store Rd MLS8294253 Beautiful 20 Acre tract! Convenient location! $598,000 Jim Donaldson

Mickey Brown 512-468-4509

Alice Lebkuecher 713-253-1311

Jim Donaldson 830-857-3371

Debbie Donaldson 512-665-9588

Linda Germain 512-924-3661

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 . 2020 co m Wimberley Valley News Page 15 September

REAL PROPERTIES

MAIN OFFICE DIRECT (512) 847-SOLD (7653) • www. AJsTexasHomes.com NEW OFFICE ADDRESS: 160 South River, SOUTH RIVER BUSINESS PARK, WIMBERLEY, TX 78676

We can do this! Wimberley Strong!

NEW PRICE!

PENDING

SOLD IN 2 DAYS

630 SACHTLEBEN RD LUXURY HILL COUNTRY ESTATE ON 10+- ACRES W/LONG DISTANT VIEWS! STUNNING 4/3.5 MAIN ROCK HOUSE, GUEST HOUSE & PARTY BARN $1,649,700

7821 ELK DR UPDATED 3 BEDROOM, 2.5 BATH SPLIT-LEVEL HOME! MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS! SPACIOUS CONCRETE PAD PARKING AREA W/50 AMP RV HOOK-UP! $199,700

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4940 COTTONWOOD 64+/- AG EXEMPT ACRES W/STUNNING LONG DISTANT HILL COUNTRY & SUNSET VIEWS! MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS! ELEVATED BUILDING SITES $1,095,000

5005 & 5003 LYNNDALE DR NEW LISTING IN THE SOUGHT AFTER LYNNDALE SUBDIVISION! TWO CONTIGUOUS LOTS! ZONED SF3!

GREAT LOCATION! $1,197,000

201 LONE MAN OVERLOOK UPDATED 3/3/3 CUSTOM HOME WITH GUEST SUITE ON 6.7+/- ACRES! HILL COUNTRY VIEWS! BLANCO RIVER PARK ACCESS! $899,700

DOWNTOWN WIMBERLEY

VIEWS

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310 WIMBERLEY SQUARE THIS PROPERTY WAS BUILT IN THE MID 1930’S IN THE HEART OF WIMBERLEY! STEEPED WITH HISTORY! ZONED C-1!

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OO LEATH HOLLOW LONG DISTANT HILL COUNTRY VIEWS FROM THIS 10.285+/- ACRE TRACT! NO DEED RESTRICTIONS! GREAT OPPORTUNIYY! $360,000

BLANCO RIVER FRONT CUSTOM & UPDATED 4/4/2 HOME OVERLOOKING THE BLANCO RIVER! GATED ENTRY! STUNNING SUNSETS & LONG DISTANT VIEWS! $1,197,000

12 BROOKSIDE DR. RARE 5.032 +/ACRE TRACT IN BROOKMEADOW! POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY W/CITY APPROVAL! MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS! $374,700

SOLD

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9 ARROW POINT CIRCLE 3/2/2 ON WOODED LOT W/LIVE OAKS & AN OUTDOOR PATIO! RECENT ROOF! OPTIONAL MEMBERSHIP FOR ACCESS TO HOA POOL $257,000

Wimberley Valley News & Views

SOLD

Page 16 September 2020