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Volume 27 5 • Wimberley, Texas • May 2024 2025 VOLUME 28Issue ISSUE 12 DECEMBER

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Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

Angel Laughlin

Barbara Latimer

Ben Mejia

Brittany Bailey

Chloe Gatewood

Christina Lawson

Broker Associate

Broker Associate/Mgr.

REALTOR® Associate

Broker Associate

512.217.6938

512.557.5257

512.994.5423

512.648.0858

512.779.7288

512.710.5628

Curtis Reddehase

Jackie Hines

John (J.D.) Payne

Jennifer Kirchner

Jonathan Bailey

Jordan Carter

Broker/Owner

REALTOR® Associate

512.565.7848

512.968.4167

512.412.0897

512.757.7076

512.599.7587

512.842.9032

Josh Harmon-Sanders

Kim Cabler

Kurt Kimmerle

Laura Kilber

Lee Pruden

Maureen Shanklin

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR Associate

REALTOR® Associate

Broker Associate

REALTOR Associate

Broker Associate

512.689.7556

512.695.8363

512.667.8278

512.376.8098

512.771.9463

512.517.5735

Steve Hysinger

Associate

Broker Associate

512.557.3851

512.461.2865

Pam Shultz

Sharon Wild

REALTOR® Associate

Broker Associate

REALTOR® Associate

REALTOR

512.773.3168

512.923.3608

970.318.6406

190 Oak Drive

Sheryl Kelley

Melody Pruden

Wimberley, TX 78676

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512.722.3267

HillsofTexasSky.com

Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

Editor Publisher Cyle Elizabeth Johnson

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, all the creatures were

Assistant Editor Catarina Evangeline Johnson

The children were jumping all over the bed, while visions of sugarplums danced

Cover Dagny St. Gines The Wimberley Valley News & Views, a subsidiary of Valentino Publications, is mailed monthly to all street addresses serviced by the Wimberley Post Office in 78676. Entire contents copyright ©2025. 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.

512 375 5590

stirring, there may have even been a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that too much sugar wasn’t stuffed in there.

through their bloodstreams and heads. Mama in her kerchief and Dad in festive matching plaid, were just gearing up for a magic-making night ahead. When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the couch to see an Amazon driver as mad as a Hatter. The moon on the breast of the newly risen grass, gave my heart a happy jump, summer was such a pain in the ... past. When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a cute family of meandering urban deer. With a lovely doe, so lively and quick, I set down my hot chocolate before I got sick. More rapid than eagles, my Mom-skills they came, and I whistled, and pranced and called them by name, “Now tinsel, now candles, now cookies and breakfast crêpe! On ribbons, on bows, on Scotch double-sided tape!” To the window! To the wall! Now dash away, dash away, dash away all.” As Pinterest-worthy gift wrapping that before the wild hurricane fly, when they meet with tiny hands mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, with a sleighs-worth of toys and my mother-in-law too. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof, inflatable Santa went airborne, we needed no visible proof. As I drew in my head and was turning around, down the hall came my youngest, toddling with a bound. His eyes how they twinkled, his dimples how merry, I scooped him up and back to bed as fast as I could carry. His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, and I took a deep breath as he triumphantly told me, “No!” I spoke not a word but went right to work, snuggling and back rubbing and dissipating his midnight perk. Gently laying a hand on the side of his sleeping face and giving a nod, I rose to finish readying our space. I sprang to the living room, to my team gave a whistle, and they all flew like the down of a thistle. And as we lay down, my husband’s eyes and mine met. I smiled and whispered, “Merry Christmas, my love. Let’s make this our best Christmas yet.”

Cyle Elizabeth Johnson, Editor

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Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

WIMBERLEY VALLEY COMMUNITY CALENDAR

• Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Apron Society meets at Emily Ann Annex Bldg. Set-up at 5:30, program 6-8pm. Exchange ideas on healthy sustainable lifestyles, gardening, cooking, homesteading. See Facebook page for more. • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org • Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW Hall, 401 Jacobs Well Road, 7pm, 6:30pm Clover Kids • Every 3rd Mon. The Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association meets at the Chapel of The Hills Church, 14601 RR 12 in Wimberley from 10am-12pm. Caregivers, friends, and relatives are welcome. Guest speakers, general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program. Paulwilj99@gmail.com. • Every 2nd & 4th Monday, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at 7pm, Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325 (3rd door from the right). For more info, call or text Aida, 512-787-8313.

• Every 2nd Monday, Jacob’s Well Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Emily Ann Theater in Wimberley at 9:40am, for chat time and 10am for our business meeting. JacobsWellNSDAR@gmail.com

Have something to add to the Calendar? • Mon. Toddler Time, Wimberley Village Library, 10:30-11:30am Reach out to us! ValentinoPublications@gmail.com or 512 375 5590. • Every Mon. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer 512 644 4198, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com • Every 1st Thur. Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group, 12:30pm at the • Every Tues. & Fri. 9am-noon, 42 Dominoes at Wimberley Senior Center Presbyterian Church Library FM 2325. Contact Linda at 512-924-3661. (inside Community Center). Contact joan1950@gmail.com. • Every Thurs. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 12pm, Community Center ($10) • Every Tues. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 6pm, Wimb. Community Center ($10) • Every 2nd Thurs, Hill Country Bead Society, 1pm, Wimb. Community • Every Tues. 6:30pm, Celebrate Recovery with an option for dinner served Center. All levels, types of beading, metal work. Marilyn 512-722-3549. at 6pm. Calvary Baptist Church, San Marcos. Contact Celebrate • Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club, First Baptist Recovery Leadership Team, 512-426-3758. Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway. Toastmasters teaches • Every Tues. Bilingual Spanish Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Library public speaking and leadership. Contact Amy, amy@texiasllc.com. • Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, an interdenominational • Every 3rd Thur. Concerts at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, 7:30pm; $25 Bible study. Men, women, Co-Ed, Spanish, Youth & Children. Register adults, $5 kids. Pie, pizza, tamales, coffee, soft drinks . RR 12 & CR 1492 at SanMarcosEve.CBSClass.org (United Methodist Church.) WimberleyUMC.org Barnabas Connection • Every 3rd Tues. The Lions Club meets from 6pm-8pm at the Wimberley & Mother’s Day Out scholarships. Thurs. Dec 18: Cary Swinney Trio Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info. • Every Thurs. Gentle Yoga 10-11am, Wimberley Village Library • Every Tues. at noon, Rotary Club meets at Wimberley Library. Ermias K. • Every Thursday, Master Gardeners at the Library, 2-5pm Gebremeskel is president, 512 210 6966, Ketema_Ermias@yahoo.com • Every Fri. Wimberley VFW Post 6441 bingo nights. Doors 6:30pm with • Every 1st Tue. The Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical food concession. Earlybird 7:00pm. Regular 8pm. VFW6441.com/bingo checks 9:3010:30am. Call 512-847-2510. • Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimberley Village Library • Every Wed. Stroller Barre workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, • Every Fri. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or email SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com Summer, 512 644 4198 or smwimberleyds@fit4mom.com • Every Wed. Spanish for Homeschool Teens, 12:30-1:30pm, Wimberley • Every Fri. Stroller Strides Playdate with Kids Craft Fridays, 10am, Emily Library, multipurpose room, 7th grade and up Ann Theatre, contact Summer, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com • Every 1st Wed. WV Quilt Guild, 9:30am social, 10am meeting. • Every Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimb. Village Library Presbyterian church 956 RR 2325. WimberleyValleyQuiltGuild.org. • Every 4th Friday, Art Crawl, 5-8pm, 5 Wimberley galleries open late, • Every 1st Wed. Transforming Stress: Unique Approach to Calm Body, Mind, guest artists, refreshments. GalleryTrail.com/ArtCrawl Emotions, Friends Meeting Room, 6-7:30pm, contact Dr. Marianne • 1st Sat. Wimberley Market Day, 7am-3pm, rain or shine Calvanese, ND for more information, 512 663 1820. • Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten • Every 1st Wed. 5:30-7pm, Wimberley Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance mixer galleries for art, food, fun, 4-7pm. Email BentTreeGallery@gmail.com. at Middleton Brewing. All are welcome. WimberleyArts.org. Have a glass of wine & enjoy art after hours. • Every Wed. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 3pm, Burdine Theatre, EmilyAnn ($10) • 1st Sun. of every month, Coffee & Cars, 8am-11am, at Blanco Brew • Every 1st Thurs. Wimberley Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Wimberley • Every 2nd Sunday, 2pm Wimberley Valley Art League general meeting, Cafe for networking opportunities, 8-9am. Bring business cards. Wimberley Community Center. Everyone is welcome. • Every 3rd Wed. Sept.-May, Herb Society of America, Emily Ann meeting • Emily Ann Trail of Lights Nov 29 - Dec 26, Fridays/Saturdays 6-10pm, room. Visitors welcome! Refreshments 9:30am, program at 10am. all other days 6-9pm (exception: 21,22,23 open until 10pm)\ November 19, “Make & Take Herbal Gifts” RSVP via email • Saturday, December 20, free Movie Night: Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Valentine_Lisa@msn.com. Visit HillCountryHerbSociety.org. Stole Christmas, Wimberley Valley Winery, 2825 Lone Man Mountain Page 4 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

05 News & Views

Our Pale Blue Dot

As humanity multiplied on this planet, families gathered into groups with common goals. Perhaps they gathered around their evening campfires and planned the ways they could work together to confront the changing needs of the group. Food was a constant necessity, changing weather threatened them, and safe lodging was a requirement. Over much of the world, trees and other plants are the most readily available sources of material for building shelter, protecting and housing livestock, fencing, and heating fuel. Even so, the total acreage of the world’s forested land remained nearly constant due to the comparatively low global population, which, by 1700, had grown only to around six hundred million. That changed dramatically in only three centuries as vastly lengthened lifespans stretched the world population to over eight billion. Feeding the world as we do today calls for increased farmland. Half of the world’s loss of forested land occurred between the years 8,000BC and 1900AD, but the other half was lost in the single century since then. The dramatic changes in land use that came with widespread agriculture have slowed, and further improvements in productivity may make it possible to feed a constantly growing world without losing the forests that produce needed oxygen and absorb so much excess carbon. Some countries, including the U.S., have more trees today than they did one hundred years ago, with forest growth exceeding ````````

Junk Collectors My Uncle Frank was born in 1925. That made him very much a child of The Great Depression. In those days, you .``` If something broke, you fixed it, and didn’t throw anything away.

by Kern Deschner

you saved everything. You never knew when you might need that old coffee can or those pieces of string. So when my Uncle Frank died a few years ago, it fell upon us to clean out his garage. The door opened to a wall of every magazine he had bought since 1950, all carefully bound together with the twine that he saved. See, that twine did have a use after all! There were newspaper stacks, miles of stripped wire, and carefully folded and bound dog food bags. I guess he never heard of recycling. It took days to remove everything and we had to fight roaches the whole time. I suspect we all know someone like my uncle. I tend to have a little junk-collector tendency myself. I have a lot of stuff in storage that is still too good to throw away, but I no longer need. One of these days I guess it will be my children’s problem unless I figure out how to use Ebay. It’s illogical, but I tend to develop emotional connections with loyal but inanimate objects, Rhonda bought me a brand new state-of-the-art mobile phone and it took me five months to turn ...

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harvest since the 1940s. Sadly, increased net forest loss continues throughout the tropics of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. We will have to make some tough decisions to continue enjoying the cooperative relationship humans have by Tim Thompson enjoyed with trees. Few things better portray the preciousness `` of life and the vastness of the universe than the Pale Blue Dot portrait of our Earth taken by the spacecraft Voyager I on Valentine’s Day 1990. Astrophysicist Carl Sagan said of the photo, “it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we've ever known.” Horticulturist Tim Thompson managed the garden center at King Feed for over 25 years. They offer everything you need to have the garden of your dreams without stressing your budget. Call King Feed at 512 847 2618.

it on and replace my old phone. The old one’s battery wouldn’t hold a charge, but we had been through so much together over the years and I didn’t want to hurt its feelings. I managed to assuage the situation by realizing my deactivated phone, if left plugged in could still work as an alarm clock and connect to my home WiFi. It sleeps by my side and wakes me up in the morning even if it no longer accepts phone calls. It still has a job. The same goes for a 12-year-old car that Rhonda thinks I should get rid of. It has made a lot of trips to the hospital in the middle of the night, and it still starts up and goes to work when asked. Even though I still have the cost of maintenance and insurance, I can’t bring myself to let it go for the paltry trade-in the dealer offered when I bought its replacement. We have been raising alpacas a long time. Eventually, like all living things, they get old and die. In other livestock industries, aging animals are sent for “processing“ long before they get so old that the meat gets tough. Alpacas do eventually lose the ability to breed, and you end up with an old animal that is no longer productive. However, because they have provided us with years of fleece, have given us babies, and have contributed to building our business, and have been, well, friends, we keep them around as long as their spirit chooses to stay. I guess that’s kind of how I would want to be treated myself. Rhonda and Kern Deschner are experienced alpaca ranchers raising alpacas through all kinds of Texas weather since 1997. Tierra Prometida Alpaca Ranch can be visited by calling Rhonda at 512 753 9962, or at Tierra@AlpacaUSA.com.

Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

06 News & Views

“Look at Me! Watch This!”

The Wildflower Music Studio recently presented its fall studio recital. Forty-two students performed for over 200 members of the community. Guitar, violin, piano, banjo, mandolin, fiddling, and group ensembles – the audience was as excited as the performers! Recitals are among my favorite times on the music studio calendar. The students have practiced to perform their best, and the community and fellow students share in the joy of their progress. Parents are as excited as the students to witness the performers’ progress and growth. What happens next is so heartwarming! During the week after the recital, I spend time with each student reliving the moments of success and the joy of accomplishment. Then we complete another “Ladder of Success”. This is an exercise I do about three to four times a year. For each student, I have a picture of a giant ladder. I begin at the bottom rung of the ladder and write in the recital piece the student just performed. We continue to build up and fill in the ladder rungs with each of the repertoire pieces we will learn next. As a student progresses up the ladder, they can measure their progress from lesson to lesson. Students often ```````

identify where on the ladder they would like to be at the next recital, and that becomes their next goal. Setting goals is an important life skill. We map road trips with the route we wish to take. Setting goals, especially in our learning, is a basic road trip we make in by Paula E. Bird life. Studying music is a good way to teach students about goal-setting and decision`` making about the direction to take in their learning. Recitals are terrific opportunities to witness other students’ goals and see what course corrections are possible and desirable. Teachers are excited and proud of our students’ accomplishments. We love what we do and we are eager to share our joy of making music. We forge community, set goals, and celebrate achievements. We encourage and support growth and learning. Come visit us at the music studio and find out what you can achieve! Paula E. Bird has taught in the Wimberley area for over 20 years. Recently retired from Texas State University and the Austin Symphony, she has performed at Carnegie Hall as a founding member of the Artisan String Quartet. Joined by her business partner, musician Ian Lee, the pair serves over 100 students in the Central Texas area. Contact her at birdtull@prodigy.net or (512) 694-7687.

Holiday Words & Hidden Language Fun For the Family knowing this helps children understand why the spelling looks As we pulled out the holiday boxes last the way it does. weekend, my children could hardly by Casey Harrison, You can actively involve children by showing a wreath or even contain their excitement. There’s LDT, CSLDS, making one together. This hands-on approach helps deepen their something special about rediscovering CALT-QIT understanding of language and keeps them engaged. ornaments each year; tiny treasures When children learn how sound, spelling, and meaning work wrapped in memories. Moments like together, reading and writing feel far more logical and less these often spark conversations in our frustrating. This holiday season, try exploring the stories behind ```` stories behind the words we use home, especially about the a few festive words. You might be surprised by how much during this season. learning is tucked inside each one. December is an excellent time to explore holiday vocabulary, and connecting these words to fun activities can motivate children to strengthen their reading and spelling skills. Take the word wreath, for example. Many children wonder: Why Casey is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (ALTA), Licensed is there a silent w? Why is it spelled that way? Dyslexia Therapist (TX, ALTA), Certified Structured Literacy To explore this together, start by having your child say the word Dyslexia Specialist (IDA), and a Qualified Teacher with over 27 years aloud: wreath. Break it into its sounds: /r/ /ē/ /th/. Then look at of experience. She works with parents, teachers, and PK-12th grade how the word is written. When the letters wr- appear at the students at her private practice, providing dyslexia therapy, literacy beginning of a short word in English, they often signal something instruction, consultations, resources, and training. She sits on the related to twisting or bending. In wreath, the ea spells the long e National Board at-large of the Academic Language Therapy sound, and th represents the ending sound. Association. Her podcast, Together in Literacy, focuses on dyslexia, Here’s the meaningful connection: a wreath is created by literacy instruction, and the whole child. Author of Teaching Beyond bending or twisting greenery into a circle. This connection is not the Diagnosis - Empowering Students with Dyslexia Through the a coincidence. Words like wrap, wrestle, write, and wring also Science of Reading (release 2025). She resides in Wimberley, Texas, begin with wr- and share that idea of twisting or turning. These with her husband, their three daughters, and many animals in their words come from a very old root meaning “to turn or bend” and little slice of the country. `` Page 6 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

I RESOLVE... WHAT WILL YOU RESOLVE TO DO IN 2026? By Tom Wiley

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Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

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09 News & Views

What a Yoga Class Looks Like

You realize that what people around you can do doesn’t matter. You are not getting cues from them. You listen to the teacher and she guides, but you are really not listening to her either. She repeats that you should listen to the signals your body is giving you. You have spent too long ignoring what your body is telling you. You are now getting cues from within. Trust it. You spend some time pulling back and some time in amazement at how much you can do. You wonder if you’ve gone too far. You realize those around you are just there, trying to accomplish the same things you are. Then it is over and you are relaxing again. You go home and wonder how things will go. Sometimes, people go home and feel a little twinge here or there. It is manageable and they learn to go easier next time. But mostly, people are amazed at what they did and don’t pay for it. I feel great! And I’m ready to try, again.

So, you’ve decided to try yoga because people around you have said they feel better and because your doc recommended you start moving more. by Sarah Geenberg You’ve heard this school does classes that work for seniors. You get there, a little unsure. People are milling about and you may recognize some. They are all just dressed comfortably and some have water bottles. People have spread out their mats in different places. Some are talking a bit and others are waiting quietly, relaxing. You first notice that nobody in there is flaunting their stuff, but you still think they might be able to do more than you can. Then you notice those who look like they might not be able to do so much and you feel better. Someone welcomes you and helps you find a mat to use. You take your spot and wonder if you will be pushed too hard. Then class starts. Slowly. Maybe too slowly. But you relax a little. Then you hear the teacher say to listen to your body. Listen to your body. Go up to where you feel it a little, but stop there. Expect your gains to be slow and steady rather than quick. You are used to going quickly and that is how you get hurt. Pay attention and listen to your body. Don’t force it.

Sarah Geenberg is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio. They have classes every day except Sundays. First class is free, so come by, anytime.

Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio Sarah Geenberg 512 971 8528 501 Old Kyle Road WimberleyKarateYoga.com

Easing Dental Related Anxiety Going to the dentist can cause anxiety and that’s a normal reaction. It’s estimated that between 15 and 40 percent of people are by Robert Donnelly, affected by dental anxiety. This often leads DDS to unnecessary oral health problems as a result of avoidance behavior, which can ````` ultimately lead to more time spent in the dental chair to receive more extensive and potentially costly treatment. There are many causes of dental anxiety: • The fear of pain • Feeling embarrassed about the condition of your teeth • Recalling you own past experiences or the experiences of your family and friends • The fear of needles, drills, and gagging • Anticipating costly and/or extensive treatment Please come talk with me at San Marcos Gentle Dental, I can help dispel any negative or frightening perceptions you may have. Having an understanding of your dental health and the dental services or treatment you may need will help to relieve dental anxiety. Make sure to avoid caffeine and sugar before any a dental appointment; they may make you anxious. Focus on relaxing, breathe regularly and slowly during any procedure. When you are nervous you tend to hold your breath, which decreases oxygen levels and further increases feelings of panic.

Prior to any dental treatment we can discuss options of sedation. There are different types of sedation methods. The most common would be breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (laughing gas), and/or orally taking a medication by mouth. Sedation will make you feel more relaxed and even sleepy. We offer a comforting environment including headphones with a variety of music options to choose from, large windows overlooking a bird haven, and a staff that cater to our patients needs. If you or someone you know suffers from dental anxiety, please contact us at 512-396-5225 so we can help you take the needed steps to get a healthy mouth and smile... and get rid of dental anxiety once and for all. Come see why Dr. Donnelly was voted a Texas Super Dentist by Texas Monthly Magazine and Best Dentist in Hays County!

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J. Robert Donnelly, D.D.S. Master of the Academy of General Dentistry

1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, Texas 78666 512 396 5225 Fax: 512 396 7022 SanMarcosDental.com

Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

10 News & Views

Oak Wilt Management in the Texas Hill Country One of the most valuable assets on your property are oak trees. They add beauty and value. Property values can drop significantly where there is a large tree die off. Oak Wilt arrived in the Hill Country years ago and is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the United States. What most people do not realize is that there are proven methods to slow the spread of Oak Wilt and treat trees to reduce mortality. One of the best resources to help us understand Oak Wilt is TexasOakWilt.org. Most experts agree that it takes an integrated management system to control the spread of Oak Wilt. Below is a summary of steps that are proven to diminish the spread of Oak Wilt. Prevent new infections. 1. Do not cut or prune oak trees from January through the end of June. Always paint cuts and wounds. 2. Cut down and remove diseased Red Oak trees. Red Oaks host the fungal mats which are incubators for the disease. Beetles feed on the Red Oaks and spread the disease to healthy oak trees that are cut or wounded and not painted. 3. Do not store wood from infected trees near healthy trees.

Stop the spread of disease through the root systems. 1. Trenching and clearing is a proven method for controlling the spread from one tree to another via root systems. by Jim & Debbie 2. Check for resources on the Oak Wilt Donaldson website for this method of control. Treat high-value trees with fungicide. 1. Consult an arborist with a certified applicator’s license. 2. Select oak trees that are high-value and begin a regimen of treatment. Plant trees not susceptible to Oak Wilt. 1. Increase diversity on your property by planting trees that are not affected by Oak Wilt. 2. Texas A&M Forrest Service has a list of excellent choices to promote a disease-resistant yard. Let’s work together and do our part to control the spread of Oak Wilt. If you suspect you have Oak Wilt begin by going online to TexasOakWilt.org for resources. Jim and Debbie Donaldson are Sales Agents with Keller Williams, Partners in Real Estate Group, in Wimberley. They moved to Wimberley in 1993 and enjoy helping sellers and buyers have an awesome real estate experience. You can reach Jim at 830-857-3371 or Jim.Donaldson78@gmail.com or Debbie 512-665-9588 or Debbie.Donaldson79@gmail.com.

Achieve Your Financial Goals in 2026 When we set goals, it is always with high spending activities, income, and expenses. If you’re looking for expectations and good intent. However, a extra money, identify ways to reduce your expenses, specifically by AJ Harwood few months into a new year many will non-essential expenses that tend to add up, such as frequent struggle to stay on track. What we are restaurant dining, online shopping splurges, etc. missing is a solid plan of action to guide and • Expenses. Closely tracking your expenses helps you commit to motivate us so we stay on the path to achieving our goals. your budget and ensures you have extra money to apply toward Here’s a plan to keep you on track: reducing your debt or increasing your savings. 1. Identify what you want. We often don’t reach our goals • Defined steps to achievement. Create a specific plan with because they are not what we want, but what others say we defined steps to achieve your goals. should want. Don’t hesitate to call me with your questions on the real estate 2. Assess your financial situation. Once you’ve set your priorities market! I would be honored to have the opportunity to serve you and know what you want to achieve this year, review your by sharing market updates or assisting with your buying or complete financial situation. The objective is to obtain a selling needs with clear, concise information you can trust. complete understanding of your income and expenses, so you can Experience matters, especially in today’s changing market. create realistic financial goals. This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes only. 3. Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable (or Attainable), Relevant, and Time-bound). Each goal should state Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of specific and written monetary amounts and the time frame to RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES and a Top Producing Agent in the achieve the goal. Texas Hill Country areas. When Experience matters…Call “AJ” 4. Make a plan. Once you’ve specified your goal, create a plan to Today! Your Hill Country Luxury Property Expert. Member: make it a reality. Institute for LUXURY HOME MARKETING. He is Wimberley’s 5. Place a visual reminder of your goal in sight. What do you “Peak Producer” offering Professional Representation for both track to achieve your goals? Buyers and Sellers in Real Estate Transactions. AJ may be contacted • A budget. A budget will provide a visual representation of your at 512.848-6612 or at AJ@REMAX.net Call AJ Today! Page 10 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 `

Your Texas Hill Country Real Estate Matchmaker local • Knowledgeable • trusted

Happy Holidays!

512.557.7660 mardee@bramlettpartners.com mardeecalkins.com

Page 11 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

12 News & Views

Room to Grow: Proper Maintenance to Ensure Mature Trees Thrive Pruning Pruning mature trees must be done judiciously. Severe pruning reduces leaf surface area and can produce wounds. Pruning should be focused on removing dead, dying, diseased, broken, and crossing/rubbing branches. Live branches should only be removed to achieve specific objectives such as reducing crown density or reducing height and spread to help prevent storm damage. A professional arborist guided by specific pruning standards established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) can help you ensure that cuts are made correctly – to protect the short and long-term health of trees. ANSI standards are accepted across the arboricultural industry as a way to protect trees and promote healthy tree care practices. Fertilization Addressing soil nutrient deficiencies by periodic fertilization is an important consideration in managing mature trees. Fertilization is particularly important where trees must compete with turf for soil nutrients, as is the case at most homes. Fertilizer specifications should be based on soil analysis. For soil analysis, a sample is taken from the property and analyzed to ```````

determine pH, soil type, organic matter content, and nutrient levels. Fertilizer treatments can be customized to meet the specific needs of the site and tree species for optimum results. Pest Management Pests and diseases can by Joe Harris weaken trees by defoliation or by causing stem and root damage. Often infestations can spread quickly from tree to tree, and sometimes even lead to the ultimate decline of one or many trees. Pests should be managed using integrated pest management(IPM) principles, a technique of periodically inspecting plants for pests and other health problems. When detected, pests should be maintained below levels that impact health through cultural, biological, and/or chemical treatments. Root System Care Root loss is the most common factor to the premature decline and death of urban and suburban trees. Causes include construction or wounds from lawn care machines, soil compaction, and root disease pathogens. Competition with turf can also cause root loss or inhibit root development. Joe grew up in Charlotte, Michigan, as a second-generation arborist. He attended Texas State, joining Bartlett while he was there. Joe worked 5 years as an arborist climber and crew leader, transitioning to Arborist Representative. He and his family love spending time on the San Marcos river. Visit Bartlett.com or call 512 392 1089 to schedule an appointment.

Well Water Storage Systems well for problems. This buys you the time you need to contact a During times of drought, there is a great professional. Should you happen to run out of water before the deal of concern with the possibility of well is operational, there are water delivery services which can wells going dry in the area. Many people bring you a supply of water to replenish your storage tank, are forced to take action when they no by Randy Lawrence longer have a constant supply of water to thereby maintaining your day-to-day routine while you await repairs. For homes in remote areas, stored water is also a their home. Some have to replace well valuable asset for firefighters. pumps, only to find that````` the old pump failed due to low water Now is an ideal time to consider adding a storage tank to your conditions. Others must drill new wells in order to access a larger well. Then you will be prepared before another Texas summer supply of water. In most cases, these repairs are unexpected, and takes it’s toll on your well. time-consuming. During severe drought, many well service Randy is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water companies are overwhelmed with calls, causing some families to treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water endure days without a supply of fresh water. A water storage Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With tank would be helpful to many of these homeowners. over 25 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and The benefits of a properly installed storage tank are numerous. surrounding areas for over two decades. These tanks are normally installed near the well so that the well pump sends the water directly into the storage tank. This removes much of the back pressure from your well pump so that “When you want quality, call a pro.” the workload on the pump is greatly reduced. The water can be sprayed into the top of the storage tank, eliminating odors which may be present. The water is then re-pressurized by an external Water Systems pump which can maintain higher pressure, and is much less costly to repair or replace than a submersible pump. Protection systems are also available for both pumps to ensure longevity. Randy Lawrence Even on existing storage tanks, an early warning system, such as 512-618-1334 A full service water treatment company specializing (830) 822-3533 a light or alarm, can be installed to activate when the water in the in customer service & integrity www.proqualitywater.com tank drops to a certain level, indicating the need to check your Page 12 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ````

ProQuality

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

13 News & Views

Financial Balance: Investing for the Future While Enjoying Life Today Many people strive to achieve financial balance, but it can be difficult to manage both present enjoyment and future security. The essence of financial balance is finding harmony between your current happiness and your long-term well-being. This means you don’t need to sacrifice today’s joy for tomorrow’s comfort, nor should you put your future at risk for immediate gratification. Financial balance starts with understanding how to manage your resources to support your dreams, needs, and wants both now and in the future. It requires making a practical plan for saving and investing, while also designating funds for experiences and comforts that make life meaningful in the present. The most important element is intentionality—being proactive with your money, instead of letting emotions or habits control your spending. Investing for the future is a vital part of financial balance. Setting aside money for retirement, emergencies, or other longterm goals helps ensure stability. However, it’s important not to focus solely on saving—neglecting the present can lead to burnout and missed opportunities for happiness. Balance is achieved by prioritizing both future needs and present desires.

Enjoying life today means designating a reasonable portion of your income to experiences that bring you joy, such as travel, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Practicing mindful spending helps ensure your money goes toward things that truly enhance your well-being, instead of fleeting indulgences that may lead to regret. To achieve financial balance, consider these practical steps:

by Scott G. Hackett, CFP®

Create a budget that includes both savings goals and discretionary “fun money”. Set clear priorities—identify what matters most and align your spending accordingly. Review your progress regularly and adjust as your goals or circumstances evolve. Seek guidance—a financial advisor can help tailor a plan to your needs. Ultimately, money is a tool, not the ultimate goal. True happiness comes from purpose, relationships, and well-being. Financial balance allows you to enjoy life today while building a secure tomorrow. Scott G. Hackett, CFP® is the president of the Hackett Financial Group LLC (HFG), a fee-only registered investment advisor. Visit HackettFinancialGroup.com or reach out at 512 847 0630. Email Scott at Scott@HackettFinancialGroup.com.

Applications for Probating a Will information to share with the court. Thereafter, there is a hearing With proper planning, the probating of on the Application, and if all the procedural requirements are a Will in Texas is rather straight met, then the court will grant Letters Testamentary. forward. It begins with the drafting and The Application is typically filed by the person named as filing of an Application to Probate Will by Carrie Campbell, J.D. and executor in the Will, but if they cannot fulfill the duties, then any for Issuance of Letters person claiming an interest in the estate can offer the Will for Testamentary at the County Court, `````` probate. Additionally, there are circumstances when an estate’s Court-at-Law or Constitutional Probate Court depending on the debts outnumber the assets and the family has no incentive to county where the deceased lived. probate. Accordingly, secured creditors of the decedent can file The Application informs the court that a certain individual has an Application to open an estate in order to have an executor passed away and provides the court with that individual’s basic appointed with authority to sell assets to satisfy the debts. identification and demographic information. The Application For more information, ask an attorney experienced with further states whether a Will exists, and if so, the date of the Will, probate. the names of the witnesses, the executor named in the Will, and if Carrie Campbell has lived and practiced law in Wimberley since the Will was ever revoked. The Application should give 1997. She is the managing partner of Mounger & Campbell law firm. additional information about the nominated executor, including Carrie is an active member of the Rotary Club of Wimberley and contact information, why other named executors (if any) cannot former president of the Wimberley Village Library Foundation. She serve, a criminal history report, and the person’s willingness to proudly has three wonderful daughters and two lively grandsons. To comply with the Will’s instructions and the Court’s orders. contact Carrie, call 512 847 1308 or CarrieC1970@gmail.com. A request for Letters Testamentary is an essential part of the Application with a Will because it will be what the executor, once appointed, will use to gather information and distribute assets. The Application will be posted at the courthouse for 10 days with a “citation” or notice to the public in case anyone has relevant Page 13 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ````

Litigation: To Try. That is the Question We find ourselves at the end of another year, one vastly unlike any other in my long sojourn on this planet. I hope that whatever the year has brought on the larger stage, that your year, like mine, has seen times of joy and accomplishment. And I wish you a Happy New Year as we sail into 2027! This article speaks to a question that I often face. Star Wars fans recall Yoda saying, “There is no ‘try’, only ‘do’.” Shakespeare could have said, “To try or not to try, that is the question,” but of course, he didn’t. Nevertheless, a critical decision in many of my cases is whether or not to take the case to trial where a jury made up of local folks can decide whether the automobile insurance company has given fair and just consideration to my client’s injuries. Sometimes the decision is an easy one because the claim has been completely denied or the offer is ridiculously low and the injured client is prepared to deal with the delay and inconvenience of preparing for and trying the case. In other situations, more analysis is required. Perhaps the offer isn’t grossly below what should be paid but is still less than what is just and fair. Or maybe the injured individual needs to tell their story to a jury in order to bring emotional closure to a life-altering tragedy. Many clients cannot financially afford the delay in getting compensated for their losses. Even if there is no appeal of a jury verdict, it can still take a couple of years or more just to get a case to trial in our

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busy courts. In addition, some injured folks by Roland Brown are simply not willing to deal with the stress of a trial. Another consideration is whether the added cost to the client is such that taking a settlement offer would net the client as much or almost as much as what might be expected from a jury verdict. The percentage of the attorney fee may increase, and typically, some or all of the case expenses ultimately come out of the client’s portion of a recovery. Once a decision to try a case is made, substantial amounts of expense are incurred for things such as medical illustrations, models, editing of video depositions for presentation at trial, fees for expert witnesses to travel and appear at trial to testify, etcetera. I always prefer that my clients be willing to go to trial if that means getting real justice, but I also strive to help them reach a decision based upon what is best for them both financially and emotionally.

Attorney Roland Brown handles exclusively personal injury claims. Roland, who offices in Wimberley, has been voted HAYS COUNTY’S BEST PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY for 2020, 2021, and 2023 in annual polls of Hays County attorneys. For more information call 512 847 2500.

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Wimberley Office

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

Page 14 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country

150 Star Thistle Trl MLS 5696319 $685,000 Beautifully remodeled 3/2 on 2.5 private acres. Alice Lebkuecher

34 Wood Glen Dr MLS 9047346 $498,000 Well designed 3/4 home. Private, serene setting. Alice Lebkuecher

72 Augusta MLS 591635 $549,000 Beautiful custom 3/2 home loaded with extras! Golf course access. Debbie Donaldson

8 Peace Pipe MLS 8483390 $168,000 Level , build ready .387 lot.All utilities available. Alice Lebkuecher

16933 RR 12 #B MLS2201430 $1,250,000 Commercial property with home, guest home and workshop! Jeff Hutto & Jim Donaldson

6 Sonata Cir MLS 1949916 $538,000 Thoughtfully designed 3/2 by Somerset Homes, on a cul-de-sac. Alice Lebkuecher

167 Wimberley Ranch Dr MLS 9832006 $1,850,000 Extraordinary 3/5 on 14 Acres. Beautiful Panoramic Views! Jim Donaldson

11 Moonlight Ln MLS 3731236 $487,000 Exceptional 3/2 Somerset Home. Open floor plan. Alice Lebkuecher

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725 Blue Sky Ln MLS 8902646 $1,175,000 Inviting 3/4 on 5Acres. Workshop, whole house generator, fenced.Ag exempt. Alice Lebkuecher

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New!

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20 Meridian Dr MLS 1283253 $890,000 Beautiful 5/4 with Stunning, long distance views. Access to private river park. Alice Lebkuecher

New!

201 Gold Nugget Rd MLS 8910537 $3,850,000 26.5 acre gated hilltop estate. 2 residences. STR for income! Alice Lebkuecher

1951 Bridlewood Ranches Rd MLS 6785921 $3,450,000 Gentleman’s Ranch. 5 bed 7 bath, 42 AG exempt acres. Debbie Donaldson

Mickey Brown 512-468-4509

Alice Lebkuecher 713-253-1311

Jim Donaldson 830-857-3371

Debbie Donaldson 512-665-9588

830 Highland Springs MLS 4374382 $195,000 2.1 Acre lot at Canyon Lake. Short drive to lake. Jeff Hutto

Jeff Hutto 936-327-2303

Linda Germain 512-924-3661

13210 Ranch Rd.12, Ste A, Wimberley, TX WimberleyPartners.com Page 15 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Page 16 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024