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VOLUME 29 ISSUE 9

Volume 27 Issue 5 • Wimberley,Wimberley TexasValley • May 2024 Page 1 News & Views | June 2024

Angel Laughlin

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Editor & Publisher Cyle Elizabeth Johnson Creative Director Catarina Evangeline Johnson Cover Betty Townsend “Tres Amigos” 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 ©2026. 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.

“I WOULD RATHER SIT ON A PUMPKIN, AND HAVE IT ALL TO MYSELF, THAN BE CROWDED ON A VELVET CUSHION.” ― HENRY DAVID THOREAU

It's almost that time of the year. When we

I got to thinking about other words

open our front doors and we're greeted

associated with the season, like s’more.

with that delicious crisp breeze that lets us

Why is there an apostrophe? The first

know the seasons have officially changed

recorded recipe for s’mores appeared in a

in Texas. It got me thinking, why do some

1927 Girl Scouts book, Tramping and

refer to this season as fall while others

Trailing with the Girl Scouts. It was called

enjoy using the word autumn? Is there a

the Some More treat. Obviously because

difference? And where did both words

one would always want some more.

come from?

What’s more interesting is that the

Both words are rooted in English,

Wimberley Glassworks

marshmallow has centuries old medicinal

however autumn is the older word,

uses,

derived from the French word autompne,

Mesoamerica, and the graham cracker

which itself stems from the Latin word

was actually developed by a Presbyterian

autumnus. Autumn first appeared in

minister in the early 1800's as somewhat

English around the 14th century, while the

of a health food. These ingredients from

word fall developed later around the 16th

different pockets of the world found their

century, as a shortened version of such

way to one another and swirled together

expressions as “fall of the leaf” and “fall of

to form the delightful combination that is

while

chocolate

hails

from

the year”. Both words came to America

now a staple treat for so many coming

and have been used interchangeably ever

together to gather around a fire.

since.

Seasons greetings. As always, thank you

Glass Pumpkins Limited EditionPage 3

for joining us. Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

Cyle Elizabeth Johnson editor

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05 News & Views

Stories to Tell

On a long road trip recently, we visited the part of the country where my mom’s father started his life. He was born in a sod house during the brief period the Dakotas existed as a territory. He spent retirement winters with us in the Rio Grande valley, so we grandkids were sometimes able to cajole him into sharing some of his tales about life on the prairie, including recounting of the family’s problems with packs of wolves, life-threatening winters, and the occasional problems between homesteaders and the local natives who watched as their historic homeland slipped out from under their feet following the horrors at Wounded Knee. We are frequently reminded on our travels of how near the history of our country is to us in our modern lives. Indeed, the genetics of our families are being played out on the stages of this life even as the genetics of every living thing lives out its possibilities as the world spins through year after year of climate changes, El Niños, and La Niñas. We saw dramatic changes as they are being brought on the agricultural lands of California whose vineyards and orchards are at the mercy of a water supply that has been exceeded by demand for decades. Driving along several hundred miles of Texas’ international boundary lands is a constant reminder of the decisions our country is making in the name of security. Extra roads now lie on both sides of every highway, dedicated to the use of border protection. Blimps roam the skies along the Rio Grande, keeping an eye on ````

Alpacas in Alaska

everything. Animals that rely on free movement now find themselves limited by steel fences of up to thirty feet high across historically protected national by Tim Thompson parks. The lands we share with one another are being decimated before our very eyes this year by wildfires rarely seen across our continent, fouling our air and ruining untold acres of pristine forests and wild lands. If we are to continue to be able to tell our stories, we face decisions together. 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.

August, or they will melt. It’s the opposite here in the winter, though. One of the distinct problems Alaska alpaca ranchers have is the extremely short winter days, which is a bit disorienting for animals who originated near the equator where day and night are largely the same length. Also, an alpaca’s favorite weather is cold and dry, which works well for most Texas winters. Alaska is cold and wet pretty much year-round. Still, alpaca breeders seem to be succeeding in Alaska. There are problems integrating with the rest of the US alpaca industry because they can’t easily get the alpacas back-and-forth to the lower 48 for showing, breeding, etc. They must drive them across Canada, and you know that requires a lot of permits. I am impressed, though, with just how adaptable alpacas can be. Each environment requires some adjustment, but they thrive in the high, dry, oxygen starved Andes and in hot, dry, incendiary Texas, and in every state from Maine to California. Ohio has the most with over 25,000. Texas has over 8,000. Even Hawaii has over 700. And, of course there is giant Alaska, who can boast over 450 alpacas. Now that I have written this article, I think I may have made a slight miscalculation; next time we go to Alaska, Rhonda’s going to want to go alpaca shopping.

It felt a little surreal. Getting off the plane in Anchorage, in August, and it’s 54° and drizzling. It felt wonderful! I still had not shed the Texas August heat. I basked in the coolness. We were by Kern Deschner flying out to Katmai Lodge on the `````` Alagnak river for a week of salmon fishing. It was overcast and cool, the entire time. Delicious. Standing in that river, one needs a warm shirt, a pullover sweater, a rainproof jacket, waders, and, of course, alpaca socks. We needed hand warmers in our pockets because the water made our hands very cold. We could hardly believe this was in August. August found us, though, when we got off the plane in Dallas and it was 108 on the return trip. Welcome home! As an alpaca rancher, I got to thinking that Alaska didn’t have any alpacas as far as I knew. It does not seem to have much of any livestock industry, and it’s a really big place. Apparently the growing season is too short to grow hay or grain. In the southernmost parts of Alaska, there are some cattle ranches, but their industry is pretty tiny. Bison do well there but I think their biggest livestock commodity might be reindeer and Caribou. It seems like, with the cold and the mountains, alpacas would Rhonda and Kern Deschner are experienced alpaca ranchers raising thrive in Alaska. However, I was wrong about there being no alpacas through all kinds of Texas weather since 1997. Tierra alpacas in Alaska. It turns out there are some, mostly in the Prometida Alpaca Ranch can be visited by calling Rhonda at 512 753 south. August is cool and sometimes beautiful in Alaska. In 9962, or at Tierra@AlpacaUSA.com. Texas, we have to keep them in an air-conditioned barn in Page 5 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ```````````

I Don’t Want To Every parent has heard it. Every one of us has said it — to a coach, a teacher, ourselves — facing something we know we’re supposed to do. I don’t want to. It shows up right before a piano or violin practice. Right before a hard conversation, the gym, the deadline, the blank page. It rarely means I can’t. Usually it means: this feels hard, this is new, this seems bigger than me. And in that moment, most of us go looking for a reason to put it down. Here’s what I’ve watched happen in a music studio: a child sits down to practice and says those three words. A parent, unsure what to do, quietly agrees. Maybe this isn’t for them. Maybe we should stop. It feels kind. It feels like listening to the child. But I don’t want to is not the same as I can’t and it is almost never the final word — it’s the first word. It’s a brain meeting something unfamiliar and flinching. What happens next is the whole lesson. When a student sits with that discomfort — plays the phrase slowly, gets it wrong, plays it again — something shifts that has nothing to do with music. They learn that not wanting to do something is not a stop sign. It’s a doorway. On the other side is a skill they didn’t have five minutes ago and proof they can push past resistance and come out capable. That’s discipline. Not gritted teeth, not punishment, but the practiced experience of doing the hard thing anyway and finding it worth it.

One Student, One Team: Understanding & Supporting Students with Dyslexia Each morning, a student walks through the school doors carrying more than a backpack. They bring their strengths, interests, experiences, worries, and individual academic needs. Students by Casey Harrison, with dyslexia may also bring experiences LDT, CSLDS, that have shaped how they feel about CALT-QIT reading, writing, and themselves as learners. No single person sees all of that. Teachers see how a student approaches reading, writing, classroom discussions, and new learning. Families see what happens outside the classroom: homework that takes much longer than expected, exhaustion at the end of the day, or the child who can explain an idea beautifully but struggles to put it on paper. When those perspectives come together, we begin to see the whole learner. That is why supporting students with dyslexia works best as a team effort. Understanding the Learner Dyslexia primarily affects the development of accurate, fluent word reading and spelling, but it does not look the same in every learner. One student may struggle to sound out unfamiliar words, while another reads accurately but slowly. Some students experience significant difficulty with spelling and writing, while others develop ways to compensate that can make their struggles less noticeable. A diagnosis gives us valuable information, but it does not tell us everything about the individual learner. We also need to ask: What does this student need next?

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Music lessons are one of the best places to learn that, because the stakes are small enough to fail safely and real enough to matter. A missed note today or a missed deadline tomorrow won’t feel as by Paula E. Bird unfamiliar. If you have a child who says I don’t want to — or you’re an adult who has said it to yourself for years — that resistance is worth ``````` walking through, not around. Call the Wildflower Music Studio to get started learning how to do this.

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.

What Can Families and Teachers Do? Often, small, intentional supports can make a meaningful difference. Break longer assignments into manageable steps. Provide clear directions and check for understanding. Allow additional processing time when needed. Consider tools such as audiobooks, text-to-speech, or speech-to-text when appropriate. Just as importantly, consider the task’s purpose. If the goal is for a student to demonstrate knowledge of science, for example, should difficulty with spelling prevent that student from showing what they know? Families can support this same approach at home by providing predictable routines, allowing time to decompress after school, breaking homework into smaller pieces, and noticing when assignments consistently require significantly more time or effort than expected. Share those observations with teachers. Make the Student Part of the Team For younger students, this might be as simple as asking what helped you with that today? or saying I noticed you understood the directions better when we read them together. Older students can begin identifying which strategies help, recognizing when they need support, and practicing how to communicate those needs to teachers. Self-advocacy does not suddenly begin in middle or high school. It develops over time through opportunities to notice, reflect, make choices, and understand one’s own learning. Want to better understand the learner beyond the diagnosis? My book, Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis: Empowering Students with Dyslexia, explores how understanding a student’s unique learning profile can guide intentional instruction, support, and growing independence. Families looking for individualized dyslexia therapy, academic language support, or guidance can contact us for available services and to learn how our team can support your child. Visit WimberleyDyslexiaCenter.com or call 512 731 7106.

Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

07 News & Views

Shifting Gears Into the Golden Years If you want a quick look into the inner workings of a person, ask them what they think about retirement. In talking with friends, family members, co-workers, and clients about their views of approaching retirement, or its reality for those who are already there, the opinions are as varied as proverbial snowflakes. I’ve spoken with people who are grateful for every day not having to get up to a nagging alarm clock hurrying them onto highways and into former jobs. For them, retirement is an amazing release from the drudgery of work, and they can now transition into a time of rest, relaxation, and the chance to fulfill interests and hobbies that were shoved aside by the need to earn a living from nine-to-five. Others can be adrift without the stabilizing moorings of their structured jobs. Their personal identities rely too heavily on the work they performed for 40, 50, or 60 hours each week. But generally, we fall somewhere in between. We learn to make the adjustment into retirement by letting go of one lifestyle and fashioning a new one that interests us. As they say, nature abhors a vacuum, and humans can be amazingly adept at reinventing ourselves. Historically, retirement is a relatively new concept. Our greatgreat-grandparents never heard of such a thing. They simply worked until they died, which, around the turn of the twentieth century, was on average around 47 years of age. Today, 70 percent of Americans will celebrate a 65th birthday, and the fastest-growing segment of the population comprises those 85 or older. We can look forward to spending more years in retirement than in childhood and adolescence combined.

You do not need to be wealthy to retire successfully; you only need to feel comfortable knowing that your bills will be paid and that a nest egg is accumulating interest. Those who have set up financial retirement plans have allowed themselves greater monetary freedom to absorb the by Leslie Tourish, adjustment of a reduced income, but still LPC pursue new interests, such as travel and hobbies. Women appear to have the edge over men when it comes to adjusting to the changes of retirement. Maybe because women have not associated their self-worth and identity as strongly with their profession; interests are more diversified into raising children, investing in friendships, and maintaining a household. There are many things that one can do to open up new chapters: Keep working. Dr. Michael Ankrom, professor of geriatric medicine and gerontology at Johns Hopkins, writes, “A lot of people don’t really retire at 65. What they do is retire from a 40-hour work week.” If your job gave you a lot of pleasure, why not maintain it in certain realms, such as teaching a class or engaging in consulting work? Stay physically active. Studies prove that people who stay physically active after retirement live longer and have a greater feeling of well-being than those who are sedentary. Retirement needn’t be the beginning of the end, but a new beginning for all types of adventures, depending upon your ability to accept change, trust your intuition, and risk a little. Leslie Tourish, LPC, is a Dripping Springs psychotherapist in private practice. Visit LeslieTourish.com or www.LATourish.com

What does your body need to function properly? At REGENERATE we have several programs and protocols to get you to total wellness. Depending on what your wellness by Breca Tracy, PhD goals are, have you put thought into what your body needs to function properly on a daily basis? Have you had your blood work analyzed? Do you know` what your deficiencies are? Whether you have the answers or are looking for them, we’d love an opportunity to walk you through what might help you reach those goals. Are you ready to start taking care of your skin, your whole body wellness, or maybe just performance in general? REGENERATE has plenty of options for you. Did you know a simple vitamin program could help you regain your energy, help kick start weight loss, help you get through those seasonal allergies, or simply kick that cold to the curb? A healthy immune system can make all the difference. At REGENERATE we focus on getting your body – whether internally or externally – back to where it once was; functioning like it once did. Are your goals to increase quality of life? Do you have joint pain? Do you need to lose weight? Are you driven by ````

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appearance or performance? At REGENERATE we focus on you! If we can’t help meet your goals, we will help find someone that can! Come chat with our team to discuss how we might be able to get you back to feeling, performing, and looking youthful again.

We have a very unique team of experts. Come see us, call, or email us! Dr. Breca Tracy currently serves as Director of Science & Operations at REGENERATE Dripping Springs. Breca has resided in Dripping since 2007 after obtaining her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Contact us at 512-368-4548, 800 Hwy 290 W, Building F, Suite 200. NaturalHealingTX.com

Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

08 News & Views

Health Benefits of Straightening Teeth with Invisalign

You may be surprised to know that the benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. According to the American Dental by Robert Donnelly, Association, straightening your teeth can DDS actually significantly affect your overall dental health. Think about it – a smile can hardly be perfect if it’s `.`` not a healthy one. Fortunately, with Invisalign having a confident smile and reducing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease go hand in hand. Swollen, red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. Unfortunately, these are also signs of periodontal disease. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems. That’s where Invisalign comes in. The comfortable and clear aligners gently and gradually begin to move your teeth into the proper position – without unsightly brackets and wires. One of the biggest challenges of having braces is removing all the food that gets trapped in the brackets and wires. This can often lead to plaque buildup and eventually tooth decay. With Invisalign, the aligners are removable, so it’s easy to continue brushing and flossing your teeth the way you normally do. Think of your teeth as a window to the health of your body. Your teeth and gums – and how they look to others when you smile – say a lot about your overall health. If you’re taking good care of both, you’re probably taking good care of the rest of you.

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Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Left untreated, they can cause mouth sores, tender or bleeding gums, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. Studies by the American Dental Association have shown that oral infections can also lead to other more serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. Invisalign aligners make daily oral hygiene easier, thus reducing the risk of possible problems. Correctly aligned teeth can also alleviate the issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems, and increased wear on the tooth enamel. Invisalign effectively addresses all of these orthodontic issues, so you’ll have the confidence of a great smile and increase the likelihood of improved oral health. 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!

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

Stepping Up To the Plate

by Tom Wiley

It is fun to listen to Jan Fitzhugh tell life stories. So many times, opportunities presented an “open door” which led to years of service, work, and volunteering. Jan is that special type of person who can see potential and take the leap of faith to make a success. Jan grew up in Dallas. She studied interior design in addition to having experience in her family’s hotel business. At the age of 25, she was contacted about managing a senior retirement hotel. Despite some early misgivings, Jan accepted the job and stayed at that facility for eight years. Senior care would be her career for 30 years. Jan once saw a $45 bookmark made by bending wire and adding beads. That design idea led to a workshop to learn jewelry making. After more workshops, she added advanced techniques in jewelry. She and her husband built a home studio when they moved to Wimberley in 2011. Selling jewelry was not her goal. Instead, she offered workshops teaching other artists. After joining the Wimberley Valley Art League, Jan chaired their annual Studio Tour. She would be president of the Art League three different times. Jan was offered a partnership at Art On 12 Gallery soon after it opened, where her lovely jewelry is on display. Selling art is her favorite pursuit. Sourcing art, managing Guest Shows, finding new artists – the whole process keeps her busy and excited.

Through her leadership, Wimberley Arts Fest has become an important annual event. Jan credits festival chairpersons and a league of Art League volunteers for its success. This year, Arts Fest moves to a new location and new date. The midtown site behind Art On 12 and next to Oak Park Welcome Center makes the festival accessible to visitors from three open sides. The event will be held on October 17th-18th. On top of everything else, Jan has co-authored a book, Artists In the Hill Country, with a second book, Stories Worth Telling, soon to be released. Jan Fitzhugh seems to have never shied away from new opportunities. Her original jewelry, infectious smile, and tireless energy make her an original! WimberleyArtsFest.org Facebook.com/ArtsFestWimberley/

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Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

10 News & Views

Simple Pleasures: Fall Traditions Baking, crunching through piles of leaves, sipping warm drinks by the fire — these are just a few of the many simple pleasures autumn has to offer. Traditions like these by Alice Lebkuecher become rich with meaning when returned to year after year, and sharing them with ```````` family and friends only makes them sweeter. Check out these 15 fall traditions to consider adopting. 1. Make a trip to the pumpkin patch. Pick up some pumpkins, gourds, and fall flowers to decorate with. The more, the merrier. An abundance of pumpkins and gourds in different shapes, sizes, and colors makes for a cheerful display. If you have little ones, make it a tradition to take their picture sitting among the pumpkins. 2. Gather round an outdoor fire pit. Roast marshmallows for s’mores outside while savoring warm drinks or just pull up a chair and get warmed up around the fire. There is something so comforting about watching a fire, and fall, with its crisp weather, is the perfect time to enjoy it. 3. Go on an autumn camping trip. Summer camping is great, but if you ask me, fall camping is even better. Most of the bugs are gone, and the cooler weather makes hiking (and warming up around the fire later) more pleasant.

4. Tweak home decor for fall. Layer beds with thicker quilts, drape a cozy throw over your favorite armchair, and set out bowls of apples and nuts. It doesn’t take much effort, and your home will instantly feel more fall-like. 6. Do some project cooking. What’s project cooking? Anything you love to make but rarely have time for. Spend a blustery autumn afternoon making a pie from scratch, Grandma’s spaghetti sauce, or loaves of pumpkin bread. 7. Host a football party. For football fans, fall means only one thing: game time. Set up comfy seating around the flat-screen, make some tasty snacks, and invite friends over to watch the game. Wishing everyone a wonderful fall season!

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.

Mapping the Mess: Where Clutter Collects Clutter has a way of migrating and organizer, estate sale company, or another local professional, I’d accumulating throughout your home. Fall is be happy to connect you with someone I trust. the perfect time to tackle those long-ignored And if you’re wondering what your property might be worth or hot spots. Clutter by the numbers: whether this is the right time to make a move, let’s talk. I can 70% say clutter creates anxiety, frustration, or guilt. give you a clear picture of the local market and help you make a 60% of us have repurchased items we own but can’t find. plan that fits your goals. I’m always glad to hear from you, and I 1 out of 3 Americans rent a storage space. appreciate the friends and family you send my way. Become a Decluttering Pro: Follow these simple tips and you’ll be living clutter-free before This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter you know it! covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes Determine your needs/wants (more organized, items disposed only. of, minimalist design, etc.). Get trusted feedback from a friend or family member. Be honest with yourself - why are you keeping something? Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is a broker associate with Let AI inspire you with possible outcomes. Compass and Founder & Principal of the Hill Country Ranch Luxury Start small (a closet, one room, etc.). Group. With decades of real estate experience and advanced legal and Call in the pros (organizers, haul-away services) to help. business credentials, AJ provides sophisticated representation for Fall is a great time to tackle the spaces we tend to put off. If a buyers and sellers. AJ’s background in law and business, combined move may be in your future, getting organized now gives you with deep market knowledge, allows him to guide clients through more time to decide what to keep, donate or sell, and makes the complex transactions with confidence and clarity. Call today and next steps feel less rushed. If you need a recommendation for an begin a strategic conversation, 512 848 6612. Page 10 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ```

by AJ Harwood

11 News & Views

Preparing Your Hill Country Home for Fall Fall may officially be on the calendar, but here in the Texas Hill Country, the thermometer does not always get the by MardeeCalkins memo. With temperatures still hovering around 95 degrees, many of us are anxiously watching the ```````````` forecast and waiting for that first glorious cold front to arrive. Even though the weather has not changed yet, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler days—and occasional freezing temperatures—ahead. After a long Texas summer, start with your HVAC system. Change the air filters and consider having the system inspected before turning on the heat. Check the weatherstripping around windows and doors, and seal gaps that could allow cold air inside. Outside, clear leaves and debris from gutters and make sure downspouts carry water away from the foundation. Look for missing roof shingles, loose flashing, or damaged tree limbs— especially branches hanging over the house. Recent Central Texas winters have reminded us how quickly conditions can change. Insulate exposed pipes and outdoor faucets, disconnect garden hoses, and keep faucet covers readily available. Most importantly, know where your main water shutoff is located and how to use it.

If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney inspection before lighting the first fire of the season. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries, and check your fire extinguishers. Keeping flashlights, blankets, bottled water, and batteries on hand can also make an unexpected power outage easier to manage. Fall is also a wonderful time to refresh your home’s exterior. Remove dead plants, add mulch to protect roots, clean the porch, and check outdoor lighting. These simple improvements make your home feel more inviting while helping protect its value. Whether you plan to stay for years or are considering selling, consistent seasonal care makes a meaningful difference. A wellmaintained home is more comfortable, easier to prepare for the market, and better protected against costly repairs.

Mardee Calkins is an award-winning Central Texas Realtor with Bramlett Partners and a longtime Wimberley resident with many years of experience in the local real estate market. Local. Knowledgeable. Trusted.

A Small Storm Can Still Leave a Mark knowledge matters before problems become expensive. Most A recent hailstorm moved through parts of importantly, choose a roofer who is insured, provides written Wimberley, reminding Hill Country documentation, understands local homes, and will explain the homeowners that a storm does not have to findings plainly. After any storm, good information—not fear— be dramatic to affect a roof. Even when hail by Billy Pattison is small and the damage is not obvious from is the best place to start. the ground, repeated impacts can loosen My name is Billy Pattison. I have been with Infinity Roofing ````` shingles, dent metal vents, and expose protective granules, bruise (powered by Stronghouse) for over 20 years. My wife Chelsea and I weak areas that may become leaks later. have lived in Wimberley since 2019, raising our two children, William, After a hailstorm, begin with a safe walk around your property. 9, and Juniper, 6. We are very active in the Wimberley community Look for dented gutters, damaged screens, chipped paint, broken and are so blessed to live and work in this beautiful town! Reach out branches, or granules collecting near downspouts. These clues do at 832 696 1012 or BPattison@StrongHousePro.com. not automatically mean your roof needs replacement, but they may justify a closer look. Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself; steep slopes, wet surfaces, and loose materials can make an inspection dangerous. A qualified local roofing professional can document the condition of your shingles, flashing, vents, and gutters and help distinguish storm damage from ordinary aging. An honest inspection should never begin with pressure to file an insurance claim or sign a contract. If damage is found, photograph it, review your policy and deductible, and contact your insurance company before permanent repairs are made. Wimberley weather can change quickly, and small issues can grow when the next heavy rain arrives. A timely inspection provides either peace of mind or a clear plan for repairs. Local Page 11 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ````

12 News & Views

Safety: The Number One Factor of Tree Care Accidents happen. Not even the most reputable or reliable tree care company can avoid them. However, the emphasis that each company puts upon safety training, enforcement of OSHA (Occupational Health & Safety Administration) regulations and use of the proper equipment can vary widely. It only takes one company to ignore safety rules and put our entire profession in a bad light. Bartlett Tree Experts places a high value on a well-earned safety record. Safety Coordinators oversee each job to ascertain the risks and advise. Extensive training is provided for all field members and OSHA regulations are strictly adhered to. Our pest management equipment is equipped with the proper materials and safety kits. Equipment operators are taught to properly maintain and use the tools of their trade. This includes ropes, chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders and trucks. Emergency procedures are well practiced. OSHA regulations require that tree care personnel wear hardhats, gloves, suitable clothing, work boots, ear protection and safety glasses on a work site. Saddles for tree climbing are obligatory and may not be altered. Ropes must be inspected before each job. Knowledge about knot tying is a necessity and the use of differenttypes

different types of ropes is also an important factor for safety. The methods that a climber uses to climb and tie into a tree are also regulated. Also the work site’s proximity to electrical lines must be reviewed before work begins. There must be a CPR kit, and a first-aid kit with antihistamines available in the case of an on site accident. xx

by Joe Harris

Too often, tree care companies ignore the basic rules of safety and workers pay the price in terms of injury and possibly even death. It’s a dangerous business to begin with. One moment’s inattention can lead to disaster. Without the OSHA guidelines and strict performance of safety procedures the job of tree care would be much more unpredictable and hazardous. When you choose a reputable tree care company it helps protect your property and the workers who perform tree work. At Bartlett, we’re proud of our safety record and of the workers who make it possible. 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.

Getting Soft Water Doesn’t Have to Be Hard a premium. The goal is to find a reliable treatment system that Considering all of the different watercan last for many years without paying too much. related products currently being advertised, Unless you are a serious do-it-yourselfer, it’s probably in your deciding which technology is right for your best interest to purchase a unit from a licensed independent water can be confusing for homeowners. by Randy Lawrence Most are aware that a water softener is dealer who can properly size and install the best unit for your home and remain available after installation to make any necessary, yet many will admit that these necessary adjustments to the equipment. A simple water analysis ``` systems are a mystery to them. and a few simple questions will determine the proper softener for A softener is considered point of entry treatment, meaning that all your home. of the water entering your home is treated as it flows through the unit. Water softeners are a proven method of eliminating scale and Randy is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water salt-based ion exchange is the only technology that physically treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water removes the calcium from your water. Salt-free alternatives leave Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With hardness minerals in your water, which will continue to cause over 25 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and scaling and corrosion. surrounding areas for over two decades. 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 “When you want quality, call a pro.” 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 Systems 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 Randy Lawrence change the final cost. Then there’s the question of who will make 512-618-1334 A full service water treatment company specializing (830) 822-3533 repairs when they become necessary. On the other end, the highest in customer service & integrity www.proqualitywater.com priced units are often so proprietary that parts and service come at Page 12 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 ``

ProQuality

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13 News & Views

Planning for Retirement

Retirement is one of life’s most significant transitions, and financial preparation is essential to ensure those years are spent enjoying freedom rather than worrying about money. With longer life expectancies and rising healthcare costs, retirees may need their savings to last 25 to 35 years or more. Proper planning can make the difference between a comfortable retirement and financial uncertainty. One key to preparing is a realistic assessment of future expenses. While some costs, such as commuting and payroll taxes, may decrease after retirement, others often increase. Healthcare, longterm care, travel, home maintenance, and inflation can significantly impact retirement budgets. Understanding anticipated expenses helps determine how much income will be needed throughout retirement. Building sufficient retirement savings is equally important. Financial professionals often recommend contributing consistently to retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, or other tax-advantaged investment vehicles. Starting early allows investors to benefit from the power of compound growth. Even those approaching retirement can improve their financial position by maximizing contributions and reducing unnecessary debt. Diversification plays a critical role in protecting retirement assets. A balanced portfolio containing stocks, bonds, cash reserves, and alternative investments can help manage risk while providing growth potential. Retirees should maintain adequate ````

liquidity, so they are not forced to sell investments during market downturns. Create reliable income streams. Social Security, pensions, investment income, rental properties, and part-time work all contribute to retirement cash flow. by Scott G. Understanding when to claim Social Hackett, CFP® Security and how to withdraw funds from retirement accounts can significantly affect long-term success. Healthcare planning deserves special attention. Medicare provides valuable coverage, but retirees often face premiums, deductibles, prescription costs, and services that Medicare may not fully cover. Long-term care expenses can be substantial, making it important to evaluate insurance options or other funding strategies. Wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney help ensure assets are distributed according to one’s wishes and reduce complications for heirs. Planning for retirement is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. By saving consistently, investing wisely, managing risks, and planning for future expenses, individuals can enter retirement with confidence. The reward for thoughtful preparation is the ability to focus on family, hobbies, travel, and personal fulfillment during some of life’s most enjoyable years. 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.

Revoking a Last Will and Testament It is common within our human experience to change our decisions based upon new information. Our relationships, residences, relatives, and by Carrie Campbell, J.D. work life are always evolving. Therefore, it is understandable and `````` predictable that provisions in your Will might require

long as the underlying provision is still readable. If, however, the markings obscure provisions entirely, then the Will is destroyed and thereby revoked. Moreover, if an original Will is in your possession, but cannot be found after your death, then it is deemed “revoked” as a matter of law. The court must assume it was shredded or destroyed. No copy of the Will can be admitted in its place. For that reason, I typically keep clients’ original Wills in my bank’s safety deposit boxes. If the Will is damaged while in my or the bank’s custody, then a copy of the Will can be admitted for probate. To update or renew your Will, it is highly recommended that you seek the advice and assistance of an attorney experienced in estate planning.

reconsideration. If it is necessary to amend or replace your Will, it is important to dispose of the old Will properly. When a new Will is executed before witnesses and a notary, any previous Will is revoked. It is unfortunate that many people keep their old Wills instead of shredding or destroying them. Family members searching for a loved one’s Will stop looking when they find one, not knowing that a newer one exists. They inadvertently (or intentionally) probate the outdated Will. Accordingly, you should only ever keep a copy or original of your current Last Will and Testament. Carrie Campbell has lived and practiced law in Wimberley since It is also important to know that amendments to a Will must follow the same formalities as the original Will. The proper 1997. She is the managing partner of Mounger & Campbell law firm. method would be a properly witnessed and executed (1) a new Carrie is an active member of the Rotary Club of Wimberley and Will or (2) a “Codicil” (amendment) that states the changes while former president of the Wimberley Village Library Foundation. She ratifying all other provisions of the original Will. Markings on proudly has three wonderful daughters and two lively grandsons. To Wills do not change the original document and will be ignored so contact Carrie, call 512 847 1308 or CarrieC1970@gmail.com. Page 13 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024 `

Litigation: Change Your Shirt Man!! Please permit me to rift a bit on a pet peeve. I will remind my regular readers that I am a lifetime road bicyclist and that I drive a way-too-big three-quarter ton truck. So, just a few minutes ago I was on my way to the office when a slight bit of movement up the road ahead happened to catch my eye. As I quickly caught up with the movement, I recognized it as a bicyclist riding in the same direction that I was traveling. Had I been distracted or tired or blinded by the sun, I could easily have failed to see this individual. Here’s the rub. He was attired in dark earthtones with a jersey of camouflage colors! A number of thoughts crossed my mind. “I hope he’s not suicidal.” “Is that the only shirt he owns?!” “I’m glad I didn’t hit him!” “If someone else hits him and I have to represent him in a personal injury case (or represent his grieving family members, as could be the case), I’d have a hard time convincing a jury that he didn’t set himself up for disaster by dressing as though he didn’t want passing motorists to see him.” I frequently return to the topic of sharing the road, because the Hill Country finds us on our hilly, curving, winding and often tree-lined roads on motorcycles, bicycles, on foot, and in all manner of trucks and cars. None of us wants our life interrupted, ended, or otherwise ruined by hitting someone or being hit by someone. For the cyclists and pedestrians sharing the road with ```

by Roland Brown

motor vehicles, wearing bright colors is a simple hedge against catastrophe. Dark clothing, particularly when set against a background of trees, is ````` great for deer hunters, but deadly for anyone tangling with thousands of pounds of speeding steel and glass. High visibility lighting on bicycles and motorcycles adds another layer of safety. When cycling, I always use a mirror attached to my helmet. (Wear the dang helmet; the jury isn’t going to give a goober about your traumatic brain injury if the defense points out that you most likely wouldn’t have suffered that particular injury had you been wearing a good quality properly fitting helmet!) I avoid earphones when on busy roads so that I can better hear traffic approaching. Okay, motorists, you don’t get off the hook here either. Be aware that it may be someone’s beloved granddaughter cycling in a dark overcoat someone loaned her because it suddenly got cold. Don’t hit her, please. 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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Page 14 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024

Specializing in Wimberley & The Surrounding Hill Country New Price!

1151 Eagle Point Dr MLS7811706 $1,650,000 Stunning modern hill country 4/4 home on 2.88 acres. Panoramic views! Alice Lebkuecher

56 Woodcreek MLS6081230 $550,000 4/4 Perched above first hole on Double J Ranch golf course. Sweeping sunset views!

707 Deer Lake MLS 7245805 $1,050,000 2+ acre waterfront property on Lone Man Creek. Dog trot style log and stone 4/2. Alice Lebkuecher

2400 Flite Acres MLS 9208184 $750,000 Rare opportunity. 2/2 with large garage on the Blanco River! Jim Donaldson

Pending!

New Price!

New!

68 Brookhollow MLS 7504454 $560,000 3/2 home overlooking Double J Ranch golf course. Debbie Donaldson

98 Whispering Valley Dr MLS8659317 $449,900 New beautiful Somerset 4/2 home. Open concept, fireplace. Alice Lebkuecher

21 Shady Grove Ln MLS 9499576 $399,000 Move in ready 3/2.5! Open floor plan on .5 acre. Jim Donaldson

201 Sundown Ln MLS 2444241 $995,000 Beautifully built Cypress Creek 3/2.5. Creek views, proven STR potential. Alice Lebkuecher

New Price!

1 Agarita Cir MLS 1157811 $549,000 Custom built 3/2.5 modern farmhouse. Jim Donaldson

Pending!

9 Caliche Ct MLS 4191597 $687,000 Spacious 4/3.5 home on a quiet cul-de-sac. Jim Donaldson

15 Spalding Cir MLS 7607103 $340,000 3/2 home on Double J Ranch golf course. Cul-de-sac & sun porch Debbie Donaldson

New Price!

4301 Lone Man Mtn Rd MLS5173296 $2,799,000 Exceptional 4/4 on 26.5 acres. Pool, Cabana, Guest house, Greenhouse. Jim Donaldson

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320 Valley Oak Dr MLS6551535 $450,000 Privacy, Beauty, Ag exempt 7.36 Acres Alice Lebkuecher

Sold!

45 Cypress Fairway Vlg MLS 5353405 $175,500 1/2 Two story townhome. Balcony with views! Jim Donaldson

Jim Donaldson 830-857-3371

455 E Skyline Acres MLS 5353405 $1,150,000 Beautiful, private views, 25 acre property. Minutes to downtown. Jeff Hutto

Debbie Donaldson 512-665-9588

Jeff Hutto 936-327-2303

106 Freedom Dr. MLS 6992195 Newly Renovated, 1 acre country setting 3/2/2 & workshop. $579,000 Linda Germain

Linda Germain 512-924-3661

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

Allison “AJ” Harwood JD, MBA, GRI Real Estate Broker / Attorney

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131 HIDDEN CREEK RETREAT ON 6.63+/ACRES HILLSIDE VIEWS, LONE MAN CREEK FRONTAGE, BLANCO RIVER ACCESS, DARK SKY STARGAZING—MINUTES FROM WIMBERLEY SQUARE. $997,000.

3900 FM 2325 ORIGINAL WIMBERLEY RANCH HOUSE 3/2/2 ON 10.01+/- AG-EXEMPT ACRES WITH HILL COUNTRY VIEWS & DETACHED WORKSHOP! $997,000

TBD RIVER MOUNTAIN RD 5.2+/ACRE RIVER MOUNTAIN RANCH HOMESITE WITH HILL COUNTRY VIEWS, AG VALUATION & PRIVATE BLANCO RIVER ACCESS. $441,700

85 BROOKHOLLOW DR. INVITING 3/2.5/1.5 HOME ON TWO LOTS WITH 1/1 CASITA OVERLOOKING 15TH FAIRWAY OF THE DOUBLE J RANCH GOLF CLUB! $497,500

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14111 WINTERS MILL PKWY COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY! 1.57+/- ACRES! FORMERLEY THE HILDEES RESTAURANT! PURPOSE BUILT FOR HOSPITALITY! ENTERTAINMENT PAVILION! $1,400,000.

401 N RAINBOW RANCH PRIVATE HILL COUNTRY RETREAT, TRI-STEEL HOME ON 9.65+/- ACRES, MAJESTIC LIVE OAKS, ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE, FLEX SPACE $874,700.

300 MILL RACE LN UNIT #4 WALK TO WIMBERLEY SQUARE! STR-OPPORTUNITY. BELLA ROSA COTTAGE WITH GATED ENTRY, PRIVATE CYPRESS CREEK ACCESS. $374,900

Page 16 Wimberley Valley News & Views | June 2024