Wimberley Valley News & Views - Vol. 28 Issue 8 - August 2025
POSTAL PATRON
Editor Publisher
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson
Assistant Editor Catarina Evangeline Johnson
Cover Jodie Johnson
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.
“WE ALL HAVE A GIFT; WE ALL HAVE A PASSION –IT'S JUST ABOUT FINDING IT AND GOING INTO IT. BEING AN ASSET TO YOUR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY.” ANGELA BASSETT
As we move forward out of these balmy summer days and into the more regulated rhythms of autumn, we can reflect on the space and freedom this summer allowed us. There's so much to do and abundant opportunity here in Wimberley Valley. The Community Calendar alone shows us how many options there are to learn something new, make new friends, and expand into who we could be.
When I reflect on where I was this time last year, I never could've imagined the amazing new people in my life –including my sweet baby girl, the new skills learned, and the fresh landscape I find myself in. What a difference a few months can make.
Perseverance, sticking with something long enough to see it evolve – and inevitably question why we started down this path in the first place – can uplevel us in ways we never thought possible. Whether it’s learning to play guitar, creating a social media account that generates income, or developing a meaningful friendship, time and consistency make all the difference in how our lives look six months from now.
This August issue brings you the best of our community. It offers numerous ways to craft a life you love and to expand into new areas of life.
As always, thank you for joining us.
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson, Editor
WIMBERLEY VALLEY COMMUNITY CALENDAR
• Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Apron Society meets at Emily Ann Annex Bldg. Set-up at 5:30, program 6-8pm. Exchange ideas on healthy sustainable lifestyles, gardening, cooking, homesteading. See Facebook page for more.
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW Hall, 401 Jacobs Well Road, 7pm, 6:30pm Clover Kids
• Every 3rd Mon. The Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association meets at the Chapel of The Hills Church, 14601 RR 12 in Wimberley from 9-11am. Caregivers, friends, and relatives are welcome. Guest speakers, general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program. Paulwilj99@gmail.com.
• Every 2nd & 4th Monday, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at 7pm, Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325 (3rd door from the right). For more info, call or text Aida, 512-787-8313.
• 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
• Mon. Toddler Time, Wimberley Village Library, 10:30-11:30am
• Every Mon. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer 512 644 4198, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Tues. & Fri. 9am-noon, 42 Dominoes at Wimberley Senior Center (inside Community Center). Contact joan1950@gmail.com.
• Every Tues. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 6pm, Wimb. Community Center ($10)
• Every Tues. 6:30pm, Celebrate Recovery with an option for dinner served at 6pm. Calvary Baptist Church, San Marcos. Contact Celebrate Recovery Leadership Team, 512-426-3758.
• Every Tues. Bilingual Spanish Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Library
• Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, an interdenominational Bible study. Men, women, Co-Ed, Spanish, Youth & Children. Register at SanMarcosEve.CBSClass.org
• Every 3rd Tues. The Lions Club meets from 6pm-8pm at the Wimberley Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info.
• Every Tues. at noon, Rotary Club meets at Wimberley Library. Ermias K. Gebremeskel is president, 512 210 6966, Ketema_Ermias@yahoo.com
• Every 1st Tue. The Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical checks 9:3010:30am. Call 512-847-2510.
• Every Wed. Stroller Barre workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or email SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Wed. Spanish for Homeschool Teens, 12:30-1:30pm, Wimberley Library, multipurpose room, 7th grade and up
• Every 1st Wed. WV Quilt Guild, 9:30am social, 10am meeting. Presbyterian church 956 RR 2325. WimberleyValleyQuiltGuild.org.
• Every 1st Wed. Transforming Stress: Unique Approach to Calm Body, Mind, Emotions, Friends Meeting Room, 6-7:30pm, contact Dr. Marianne Calvanese, ND for more information, 512 663 1820.
• Every 1st Wed. 5:30-7pm, Wimberley Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance mixer at Middleton Brewing. All are welcome. WimberleyArts.org.
• Every 1st Thurs. Wimberley Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Wimberley Cafe for networking opportunities, 8-9am. Bring business cards.
• Every 3rd Wed. Sept.-May, Hill Country Unit of the Herb Society of America, Emily Ann meeting room. Visitors welcome! Refreshments 9:30am, program at 10am. Contact Valentine_Lisa@msn.com. To learn more and for monthly topics visit HillCountryHerbSociety.org.
• Every 1st Thur. Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group, 12:30pm at the Presbyterian Church Library FM 2325. Contact Linda at 512-924-3661.
• Every Thurs. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 12pm, Community Center ($10)
• Every 2nd Thursday, Hill Country Bead Society meets at 1pm at the Wimberley Community Center. All levels and types of beading and metal work. Marilyn Pierce at 512-722-3549.
• Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club, First Baptist Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway. Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership. Contact Amy, amy@texiasllc.com.
• Every Thurs. Gentle Yoga 10-11am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Thursday, Master Gardeners at the Library, 2-5pm
• Every Fri. Wimberley VFW Post 6441 bingo nights. Doors 6:30pm with food concession. Earlybird 7:00pm. Regular 8pm. VFW6441.com/bingo
• Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or smwimberleyds@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides Playdate with Kids Craft Fridays, 10am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimb. Village Library
• Every 4th Friday, Art Crawl, 5-8pm, 5 Wimberley galleries open late, guest artists, refreshments. GalleryTrail.com/ArtCrawl
• 1st Sat. Wimberley Market Day, 7am-3pm, rain or shine
• Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten galleries for art, food, fun, 4-7pm. Email BentTreeGallery@gmail.com. Have a glass of wine & enjoy art after hours.
• Every 3rd Sat. Art Bazaar, Wimberley Valley Winery noon-6pm
• 1st Sun. of every month, Coffee & Cars, 8am-11am, at Blanco Brew
• Every 2nd Sunday, 2pm Wimberley Valley Art League general meeting, Wimberley Community Center. Everyone is welcome.
Give Thanks
On the Saturday evening of Memorial Day weekend ten years ago, my wife and I were enjoying the view of the beautiful Wimberley Valley from our back porch. Nature had been performing one of her amazing lightning shows for hours, and the rainfall was adding up, which was usually good news for this corner of Texas, especially as we faced the beginning of another long, hot summer. Loud reports made us wonder why anyone would target practice in such a storm. We later learned the sound was the snapping of huge trees, broken by unstoppable floodwaters.
Our son and his wife were enjoying the holiday with the traditional gathering of cousins at a family home on the Blanco River. They spent the day grilling, making music, and watching the water level rise. They knew when the river reached the high-water mark on the foundation base that it was time to go. The whole gang wound up at our house in the middle of the night, complete with sleeping kids, three dogs, and eight adults. The storm had knocked out power, so we lit candles, passed out blankets, and breathed heartfelt sighs of thanks as we let sleep overtake the day’s ominous possibilities.
Morning dawned on the aftermath of one of the worst floods ever seen here. Hundreds of homes were destroyed. The Fischer Store bridge, where our daughter played with the high school band on its dedication day, was no more. Thirteen people perished, half of them visitors to our famously welcoming Hill Country village.
by Kern Deschner
The Value of Procrastination
Over the years I have come to understand that Rhonda is a he who hesitates is lost person and I am a look before you leap person. If we had been World War I trench soldiers, Rhonda would have been over the ```
top first, charging to glory. I would have been the coward quivering in the trench until the sergeant threatened to shoot me if I did not go over the top. Our adult children have learned to be careful about telling us of some item that they need. If Rhonda finds out, it will be at their door in a box from Amazon the next day. I will instead put it on a Christmas waiting list.
I am here today to make a case that procrastination can be a good thing. Example 1: In 2008, we saved a sizable amount of money to build a new house. My financial advisor kept encouraging me to deposit the money in one of their accounts to run up some interest while we waited on the house plans. I hesitated, stalled, procrastinated, and kept the money in my bank. Then the bottom fell out of the housing market, taking the stock market with it. But I had procrastinated and my money was still there. Ha! I was right!
Example 2: In the summer 2019, it was hot (duh!). Rhonda complained daily about the heat so I suggested we should go someplace far enough north, or high enough on a mountain, so that it would be cooler. She could not decide and, by the time she finally gave me the okay, the only flights we could find were to
Thousands of cypress and other trees were uprooted or snapped off like matchsticks. Some of them were growing on the banks of the Blanco when Santa Ana rode up to The Alamo.
We have been reminded again by the horrors in the Kerrville area, that Mother Nature gives and takes, winding her way
by Tim Thompson
through the human story with every step. She brings life and joy and pleasure to every home, even as heartache and sorrow follow. I give thanks that they are carried through our lives in the shared hands of human kindness.
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.
Minneapolis. We had never been to Minneapolis. I asked the desk clerk at the hotel what there was to do, now that we were in Minneapolis. She suggested going to the Minnesota State Fair. That was a fantastic suggestion which I can highly recommend. We would never have come across that fair if procrastination had not happened. If you go, find the booth that sells hot chocolate chip cookies and take out your camera to get a video. You will need about 10 people to eat all those cookies. At the end of June, I started writing this article. Our alpaca ranch (see how I worked that in there) was hot and dry, and the lake was empty, so I almost completed an article about how badly we needed rain. I even waxed dreamily about a nice tropical storm that would move into the Guadalupe and Colorado River watersheds, filling our Highland Lakes. I was putting the final touches on that article when the July 4 weekend happened. Now, I cringe when I read that article and I am so grateful that I procrastinated and avoided writing something that could have been very crass and misinterpreted. I hope the editor would have cut me off and saved me huge embarrassment. We still need the rain, mind you, and we are not totally out of the drought yet, but a Texas drought never killed hundreds of innocent people in one night. Those bomb-floods need to procrastinate another 100 years.
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.
Making Music, Sharing Joy
When I finished my day’s lesson with one of my happiest 3-yearold piano students, she and her younger brother rushed to leave the studio and meet up with their “besties” – another 3-year-old girl and her younger brother. The pairs matched each other in age. After the joyful greetings among the children and their mothers, the older girls excitedly exchanged details of their recent “experiments” (their words) – my student’s piano lesson and the other child’s artwork from her art class. All the students then expressed interest in entering my teaching studio and seeing the piano. They excitedly rushed to the piano and my student showed them how to work the instrument. Everyone tried it out. There were lots of excited giggles, musical cacophony, and calls to “watch this!”
I did not do much as a teacher. Instead, I listened and watched how my student shared what she had learned with her friend and then witnessed her friend’s playful attempts to do the same thing. The younger boys did what younger boys do best: experiment and play with movement and sound. The young boys made noise. They touched the white and black keys, laughing and giggling together with each attempt to produce musical sounds from the piano.
by Casey Harrison, LDT, CSLDS, CALT-QIT
We shared a lot of guffaws and enthusiastic excitement. What a joyful time we had! We had such a good time and a memorable experience together that one of the moms texted me later about the joy of the impromptu “jam session”.
This story illustrates the fun and engaging nature of music lessons. The story also
by Paula E. Bird
relates the best part of teaching from my teacher’s perspective. We share the joy of making music together. Nothing beats the beauty and expressiveness of making music for and with others.
A child is never too young or too old to start learning the joy of music. Music is the best way to exercise your brain, learn life skills, and provide an emotional expression outlet. Join the Wildflower Music Studio and find your musical voice.
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.
Supporting a Smooth Start to the School Year for Students with Dyslexia
The start of a new school year often brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially for students with dyslexia or related learning differences. They may have questions about their new teacher, classroom, and routines, as well as how to self-advocate and figure out schedules, including the dreaded locker combination. Some of our children will be
able to verbally express their feelings, while others may express themselves through behaviors. Parents often feel this stress too, juggling education plans, communicating with teachers, and ensuring their child receives needed support. Your involvement is not just helpful, it’s crucial to your child’s success as an integral part of their academic journey.
Recognizing that these feelings are common among students with learning differences can help us build a sense of community and find ways to ease the transition. Taking small, intentional steps at home, such as discussing the upcoming school year, creating a visual schedule, and reviewing educational plans, can make a meaningful difference.
For many students with dyslexia, school days are mentally taxing. By the time they get home, they may feel exhausted. Homework—intended to reinforce learning—can become frustrating if a student is tired or still mastering concepts. Here are some helpful strategies for home support:
Set a regular start time for homework
Create a quiet, dedicated workspace
Color-coded calendars break tasks into manageable steps
Include short movement or snack breaks
Read directions aloud when needed
Offer support through oral dictation or scribing
Track how long tasks take and communicate with teachers if needed
Families are the true experts on their children. Paying attention to your child’s responses at home can provide valuable insight to share with educators. Your knowledge and understanding of your child are invaluable in their educational journey.
At Wimberley Dyslexia & Learning Center, we understand the challenges a new school year can bring. Our team of experienced educators and specialists is here to support families of students with dyslexia and related learning differences through resources, personalized guidance, and care. You are not alone in this journey, and we are here to provide the support and resources you need.
Casey is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (ALTA), Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (TX, ALTA), Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (IDA), and a Qualified Teacher with over 27 years of experience. She works with parents, teachers, and PK-12th grade students at her private practice, providing dyslexia therapy, literacy instruction, consultations, resources, and training. She sits on the National Board atlarge of the Academic Language Therapy Association. Her podcast, Together in Literacy, focuses on dyslexia, literacy instruction, and the whole child. Author of Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis - Empowering Students with Dyslexia Through the Science of Reading (release 2025). She resides in Wimberley, Texas, with her husband, their three daughters, and many animals in their little slice of the country.
Timing
I know as a teacher that a good class for someone is one that is not too fast or too slow. If I go too fast, they start to get stressed and maybe even think they are not able to do it. If I go too slow, they get bored and think it is not for them.
Also, I have noticed when students are really engaged but the techniques are challenging, they try harder and harder, lose patience, and hurry to get through the challenge. I am always coaching that when we want to hurry through something we should actually be slowing down. Kids even get it. They are relieved to see that they can more easily get over the hurdle when they are relaxed.
In yoga, this is more natural. In class, we are constantly told to just listen to the signals from our body and go with what we can do – and do no more. We are then often surprised when we can do more.
All these things are good to know in life, too. In any project or goal in life, we often quit because we think we cannot do it. But what if we were just trying to go too fast? Or if we are getting bored and decide we don’t want to go after it anymore, maybe that is just a sign that we are free to go faster? Usually that means facing some step we do not want to deal with. But a frustrated boredom means we now have the time and space to face it.
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
By the way, when trying to attain the goal, we often think about the skill set and the doing of it. But all we really need to give ourselves is the time and space and the doing becomes automatic.
I know we are just karate, yoga, and Tai Chi teachers and doing those things promote health and well-being. But I also love how those practices open my eyes and generally make life better.
by Sarah Geenberg
Sarah is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio near Blue Hole and OnlineSeniorsYoga.com. Their yoga, Tach Chi, and karate classes especially cater to Seniors. The first class is free. Go check them out.
Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio
Sarah Geenberg 512 971 8528
501 Old Kyle Road
WimberleyKarateYoga.com
Dental Implants
If you lose a tooth, a dental implant may be the best option for restoring your smile. A dental implant offers comfort and stability and, by virtue of the artificial tooth it supports, is a restoration that is the closest thing to a natural tooth. Dental implants
are artificial replacements for natural tooth roots and can be used for both upper and lower teeth. They are even an option for replacing multiple missing teeth or can be added to dentures for a more stable fit.
Dental implants have been used for decades by patients of all ages. Dental implants are a great option for all patients who are missing teeth due to decay, disease, injury, or medical conditions. You also may be a candidate for a dental implant if you find your dentures uncomfortable or loose or need a replacement option for multiple teeth. You are a good candidate for dental implants if you are in good health and have healthy gums and adequate bone to support an implant. You must be committed to thorough oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy and scheduling routine visits with your dentist to keep your teeth and gums clean and free of infection. We encourage you to speak with Dr. Donnelly about your specific concerns to see if implants would be the best option for you.
Implants are a seamless process from start to finish. The first appointment generally involves the placement of the titanium implant which will serve as the root of the new tooth structure. This provides strength to the restoration and the ability to act as a natural tooth. The final step is when the crown which is the actual tooth structure is attached and has the same size, shape, color, and fit as your other teeth.
If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about maintaining oral hygiene, Dr. Donnelly is here to help you. You can contact San Marcos Gentle Dental by calling 512 396 5225 where we will be happy to get you scheduled. Come see why Dr. Donnelly was voted a Texas Super Dentist by Texas Monthly Magazine and Best Dentist in Hays County!
Robert Donnelly, D.D.S.
Prepping Your Home for Winter
With the heat of summer still here, it is hard to conceive that winter will soon be upon us. As temperatures begin to cool this is a great season to prepare your home for the months ahead. Here are a few steps you can take to be prepared:
1. Have your home’s heating and air conditioning system professionally serviced.
2. Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as well as your fire extinguishers.
3. Inspect your doors and windows to see if they need caulk or weather stripping.
4. Have your gutters cleaned and add leaf guards if needed.
5. Make sure dead branches are removed from your trees and any others that might fall on your home in an ice storm.
6. Winterize vulnerable pipes and hose bibs.
7. Have your wood-burning fireplace or stove inspected to prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
With a little bit of time and focus, you can use this checklist to stay ahead of the game and be ready for the winter weather ahead.
by Jim & Debbie Donaldson
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.
Why I Work by Referral
by AJ Harwood
When looking for a new business or service, we often reach out to those we know and trust for a referral. As a real estate agent, I know trust is especially important when it comes to buying or selling a home.
More time to serve you. Instead of prospecting, I can spend more time getting to know my clients and their individual needs. Whether it's a first-time buyer, a family seeking more space, or a couple looking to downsize — everyone’s situation is different and deserves time, respect and commitment.
Service that continues. I’ll stay in touch by sending you information each month on a variety of subjects. I'll also call from time to time to check if there's anything you need. Exceeding expectations. A real estate transaction can be a stressful and emotional time. As a trusted real estate professional, I will work with you every step of the way to help make the process go as smoothly as possible. Here, every step of the way. I’ll keep you up to date with accurate, well-researched information and stats on the local market.
Community. I can also let you know about pertinent issues in the community that may affect property values. Home Value. I can provide a market analysis to estimate your home’s current value. I can also offer advice and suggestions on ways you can upgrade your property to enhance its resale value.
Connecting you. Looking to move out of the area? I’m part of a network of top agents in the U.S. and Canada and I would be happy to refer you to one in your new location who will provide the same level of service that I do.
Don’t hesitate to call me with your questions on the real estate market! I would be honored to have the opportunity to serve you by sharing market updates or assisting with your buying or selling needs with clear, concise information you can trust. Experience matters, especially in today’s changing real estate market.
This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes only. Sources: NAR 2015 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. Used with permission by the Buffini & Company.
Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES and a Top Producing Agent in the Texas Hill Country areas. When Experience matters…Call “AJ” Today! Your Hill Country Luxury Property Expert. Member: Institute for LUXURY HOME MARKETING. He is Wimberley’s “Peak Producer” offering Professional Representation for both Buyers and Sellers in Real Estate Transactions. AJ may be contacted at 512.848-6612 or at AJ@REMAX.net Call AJ Today!
Art with Class
Following Ranch Road 12 southeast from the Wimberley Square, past the Christian Church, turn left to a welcoming cottage which is home to Casa de Linda Art Studio. That is where Linda Calvert Jacobson has been teaching art for the past eight years. Linda began teaching painting in the mid1970’s and has continued in various capacities ever since. In 2003, she decided to be a full-time artist and instructor.
On February 14, 2015, she and husband David opened Wildflower Art Gallery in the Wimberley Olde Towne Plaza on RR 12, featuring Linda’s original art. With a plan to keep her classes close to the gallery, Linda relocated her teaching studio from New Braunfels to Wimberley in 2017. Linda takes pride in her love of teaching and sharing. She specializes in acrylic painting classes for adults, which are offered year round ongoing. In addition to teaching acrylics, Linda works at honing her skills in other materials to offer beginner courses. She will immerse herself in a particular medium until she is ready to offer special courses or workshops in that medium. Each step of instruction relates to the steps taught before. Classes are structured so that students work on similar projects at the same time, benefiting from 1-on-1 instruction.
Linda recognizes that class members come with varied art experiences, some with no experience at all. First sessions include some work with the color wheel and color theory. Classes come complete with a kit of necessary materials, again a step to assure that everyone is on “the same page.”
For some of the courses, students take their material and work home and are encouraged to do some “homework”.
Classes for this fall are now being created. They will be beginner courses in watercolor, gouache, drawing, and pan pastel, as well as the ongoing acrylic classes. Casa de Linda website provides excellent information on the location.
Receiving the newsletter is a good source of information on each class, costs, and the number of seats available.
From 2017 until today, it is probably impossible to know the number of adults who have benefited from Casa de Linda Art Studio. Art can enrich all of our lives and Linda Calvert Jacobson loves providing steps towards that end!
Casa de Linda Art Studio
13620 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley, TX 830-221-7676
www.casadelinda.com
Controlling Aphids
As the weather warms up this summer, activity of plant pests like aphids also increases. Aphids are small insects that infest a huge range of plants in the central Texas area. When feeding aphids infest plants, they can cause leaf distortion and discoloration. In addition to causing plant damage, feeding aphids exude excess sap called honeydew on trees and creates a sticky mess on cars, patios, decks, and anything else below the tree. This sugary honeydew in turn supports the growth of a black fungus called sooty mold. Often, the sticky honeydew and the black coating of sooty mold is more of a problem than the actual feeding damage to the plant.
Fortunately, aphids are relatively easy to manage in landscape plants, and there are several options available, depending on the level of infestation and damage. The best options for low-level infestations are biological and organic. Many beneficial predator insects feed on aphids, and we can take advantage of this fact. The release of natural aphid predators, such as ladybird beetles, lacewing larvae, or aphid-eating midges, is often the only tool necessary to limit infestations, but results may take some time. If infestations and damage levels warrant immediate control,
organic foliar applications of neem oil or horticultural oil work on contact. Finally, for heavy infestations or in areas where foliar applications are not practical, systemic materials can be injected into the base of trees; these materials move throughout the tree tissue and provide lasting control of aphids. As with any insect pest, careful monitoring and
by Joe Harris
treatment using multiple integrated options at the first sign of infestation will help to reduce damage and improve the success of management options.
An inspection with an ISA certified arborist can help you determine the best route for pest management.
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.
Low Flow Problems From Your Faucets
by Randy Lawrence
Thanks to technological advances, water softeners have certainly become more reliable than ever before. However, even with significant improvements, there are still issues that may arise which technology cannot alert us to. One problem that can happen over time is a ```
breakdown of the resin inside the softener unit. It’s important to be able to recognize the symptoms of this issue in order to keep a small problem from turning into a big one.
All water softeners are designed around a quantity of small plastic-looking beads called ion exchange resin. When viewed under magnification, these resin beads resemble a ball of yarn. Along the yarn are exchange sites which allow the resin to complete the job of removing hardness minerals from the water. If you were to hold these resin beads between your thumb and forefinger, you would find that they resemble tiny ball bearings and are very firm to the touch. However, there is one variable which can significantly shorten the life of this critical component – chlorine.
On non-chlorinated water, this resin can last more than twenty years. On city water, resin life can be reduced to ten years or less. Once the chlorine takes its toll, the resin beads begin to expand and soften. As this process advances, the degraded beads will begin to take on a Vaseline-like consistency and will start to
impede the flow of water through the softener. Since it is a slow process, it can be difficult to notice the changes in water flow into your home. You may notice that you can no longer run multiple faucets without a significant pressure drop or that the flow rate slows while running only a single outlet.
If left unchecked, this problem can lead to physical damage inside the water softener and occasionally can lead to a release of resin beads into your home’s plumbing system. At this point, the best bet is to bypass your water softener. If this solves the pressure issue in the house then it is time to call your water treatment professional for replacement of the resin bed.
Randy Lawrence is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With over 25 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and surrounding areas for over a decade.
“When
Understanding the Tax Benefits of a 351 Exchange: Add
Diversification While Deferring Capital Gains Taxes
A 351 Exchange, governed by Section 351 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), enables individuals to contribute property —like stocks or ETFs—to a newly formed corporation or ETF. This mechanism allows investors to receive shares of the new ETF in exchange for their securities, deferring recognition of capital gains if all requirements are met.
Practical Applications and Benefits A 351 Exchange is ideal for investors seeking tax-aware reallocation or portfolio simplification. For instance, one can contribute highly appreciated stock positions into a diversified ETF, such as a Global Equal Weight ETF, and receive ETF shares. This maintains market exposure and may add additional diversification, while deferring taxes on any gains until the ETF shares are sold.
The Mechanics of a 351 Exchange Section 351 was established to let investors transfer assets into corporations without immediate tax consequences. Recently, this principle has been adapted to ETF creation, allowing for tax-aware portfolio reallocation.
To execute a 351 ETF Exchange: Investors contribute exchange-traded securities to a new ETF. They receive ETF shares, representing proportional ownership.
The contribution is reviewed to ensure it meets IRC diversification rules.
If compliant, capital gains are not taxed until the ETF shares are sold.
Key Qualification Requirements A contributing portfolio must satisfy several tests:
No more than 25% of the portfolio’s value in a single asset.
No more than 50% of its value in five or fewer securities.
All securities must be exchange-traded. For ETFs, the IRS uses a look-through underlying holdings. A 351 Exchange is a valuable tool for efficiently rebalancing or simplifying investment portfolios, offering significant tax advantages when requirements are met.
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.
Creditor’s Claims in Probate
by Carrie Campbell, J.D.
Most individuals incur debt as an ongoing part of living within our society. When an individual dies, any remaining debt must be settled before any distribution of assets. The most common debts include home mortgages,
car notes, credit cards, student loans, personal loans, utilities, medical bills, and taxes.
All secured creditors, along with taxing authorities, must be given written notice within one month of the court’s appointment of an executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate. That notice must meet the requirements of the Texas Estates Code and be delivered by certified mail, return receipt requested. Proof of delivery must be filed with the probate court. It is the representative of the estate that determines whether to notify unsecured creditors, and there are pros and cons which should be carefully considered.
To secure a claim for payment from the estate’s assets, a creditor must notify the Executor and file a Notice of Claim with the probate clerk within four months of their receipt of the formal notice. The creditor can elect to be paid in the due course of the administration, or if the debt qualifies, the creditor can select a preferred debt status and hold a lien status against estate assets.
If an unsecured creditor (like credit cards) fails to respond within four months, then the claim against the estate is barred by law. If a secured creditor (like mortgage company or car note holder) fails to respond within the four months, then the claim against the estate will be given no preferential treatment or lien status.
If the Executor of an Independent Administration ignores the claim or expressly rejects the claim, then the creditor may file a lawsuit against the estate for payment. The standard deadline (known as the statute of limitations) for bringing a lawsuit applies, usually 2-4 years. If the court is overseeing a Dependent Administration, then the creditor has only 90 days to file a suit once a claim is rejected.
For more information or assistance navigating the probate process, you should consult with and retain an experienced probate attorney.
Carrie Campbell has lived and practiced law in Wimberley since 1997. She is the managing partner of Mounger & Campbell law firm. Carrie is an active member of the Rotary Club of Wimberley and president of the Wimberley Village Library Foundation. She proudly has three wonderful daughters and two lively grandsons. To contact Carrie, call 512 847 1308 or CarrieC1970@gmail.com.
Litigation: Drive Like a Lawyer
Years of experience with the causes and effects of motor vehicle crashes have impacted how I handle the massive speeding bullet we casually refer to as a motor vehicle. This comes from such things as hearing that at only 60 miles per hour, I will travel almost the length of a football field in just over 3 seconds, and that allowing for the roughly .5 seconds it takes to react and brake, my vehicle will travel 44 feet, or probably 2 to 4 times the distance of a room you might be sitting in right now, before the brakes even begin to slow my vehicle. I have consoled injured and grieving victims of horrible permanent injuries or death from crashes sometimes at much lower speeds. I have viewed innumerable photos of twisted metal, bloodied seats and windshields, bruises, burns, lacerations, metal hardware inserted into broken backs, and much more. How do I adjust my driving to protect myself and others?
Imagine that you are about to be hit by another vehicle or to cause a crash yourself. Recall the force of a crash you have been in or some other event where your body was slammed into, then look again for that car just coming over the hill to your left. Text later; at just 60 mph, you travel the length of 1½ football fields in that time. Change lanes slowly so that if another vehicle is moving into the same area, you or they have time to observe and warn or correct. Create margin around you, leaving space and time for reaction and correction, particularly when following another vehicle. Load heavy items in a way that minimizes their effects as
flying missiles; when your vehicle stops abruptly, the lamp you set on the rear seat does not – it flies forward towards your head. Stay in your lane when turning;
swinging out into an adjoining lane cuts off other vehicles and puts you in their path.
Know your vehicle and load. Allow for the extra width of the trailer you are pulling, the 10 foot 2x4 you poked out of the open window at the lumber yard, the canoe you strapped to the top. Maintain your brakes, tires, wipers, lights, and other vehicle features. Think of how it feels to be completely out of control the moment your vehicle hydroplanes on a wet surface. These are some of the things I think about as I drive. I hope that you will too. Safe home, my friend.
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. by Roland Brown
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