news for the Residents of avery RanchJune 2009 volume i1i, issue vi
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June LandscapingSubmitted by Ron Kerwin
It is getting hotter out; plan your lawn/garden work for early morning or evening to avoid the heat of the day. Make sure you drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, preferably water, to keep from becoming dehydrated. Plan your mowing schedule around the growth of your lawn. You should not
mow more than 1/3 of the blade length off at a time. If you water or fertilize too much, you will generate excessive growth. This will require more frequent mowing to avoid cutting off more than 1/3. If you postpone mowing, you will be damaging your lawn, generating excess clippings which will require more of your time to mow over them multiple times, and you will do your small mower engine harm by trying to mow too much grass with its smaller horsepower. With proper fertilization and watering, weekly mowing should be adequate; there will be exceptions however. You can fertilize again this month with a 3-1-2-ratio fertilizer or 4-1-2; try to get it
with a minimum of 50 % slow release nitrogen to stretch out its benefits. Water the granular fertilizer in soon after application. You can water your patio plants and hanging baskets with a diluted 20-20-20 water- soluble fertilizer. Try to use filtered or distilled water for these plants and baskets to reduce the chlorine getting to the plants.Canopy your trees to allow more sunlight to get to the lawn grasses underneath.
Low tree canopies will not allow grass to survive. You want the lower branches removed anyway for safety reasons while mowing. You don’t want to get poked in the eye.On Red-tip Photinia and Indian Hawthorne’s watch for maroon colored spots
on the leaves. This indicates a fungal leaf spot and could be fatal to the shrubs if left unattended.
Apply a fungicide, Banner or Daconil as soon as you can. Powdery mildew on roses, crape myrtles, eunonymus and zinnias in late spring can be treated with a funginex spray weekly.Trim your spring flowering shrubs now and then
leave them alone. Your Indian Hawthornes and other spring flowering shrubs are done blooming. Now is the time to trim them back. After you do this, do not trim them again until after they bloom next spring. Trimming them later in the year may result in your removing the flower bud heads for next year. June bugs DO NOT mean to treat for their larva, grub worms. Treatment is only effective in late July/early August IF you have grubs. Spider mites can be treated with miticides, insecticidal soaps or just a blast of water from your hose.
2nd
AnnualLocks of Love
Event 2009 Locks of Love is a not-for-profit organization that provides free hairpieces to children 18 years and younger in the US and Canada suffering from any type of medical hair loss. You can sign up at the Kick-off Celebration on June 12th at Cups and Cones in Steiner Ranch between 4:00pm and 6:00pm. You will receive a registration packet and your first hair measurement. You then have until December 2009 to grow your hair to at least ten inches long. Hair must be ten inches long at time of cut and can be colored, but must be free of bleach. All participants will be invited to multiple events though out the coming months by local businesses. Participants will also receive free gifts and valuable coupons from various event sponsors. Moms are welcome too! For more information contact Sandra Bennett at 512-372-3500 or visit www.locksoflove.org.
ImportAnt numbErsEmErGEnCY numbErsEMERGENCY ...................................................911Fire ......................................................................911Ambulance ..........................................................911Sheriff – Non-Emergency ................... 512-943-1300
sChooLsRound Rock ISD ............................... 512-464-5000Forest North Elementary .................... 512-464-6750Grisham Middle School ..................... 512-428-2650McNeil High School .......................... 512-464-6300
utILItIEsCity of Austin Water .......................... 512-494-9400Perdernales Electric............................. 512-219-2602Texas Gas Service Custom Service ............................ 1-800-700-2443 Emergencies .................................... 512-370-8609 Call Before You Dig ........................ 512-472-2822AT&T New Service ................................. 1-800-464-7928 Repair .......................................... 1-800-246-8464 Billing .......................................... 1-800-858-7928Time Warner Cable Customer Service ............................ 512-485-5555 Repairs ............................................ 512-485-5080Solid Waste Servies ............................. 512-494-9400
Please support the businesses that advertise in the Ranch Review. Their advertising dollars make it possible for all Avery Ranch residents to receive the monthly newsletter at no charge. If you would like to support the newsletter by advertising, please contact our sales office at 512-263-9181 or [email protected]. The advertising deadline is the 10th of each month for the following month's newsletter.
AdvErtIsInG Info
If you have a new addition to the family please let us know by emailing [email protected] and we will include an announcement to let everyone know!
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nature watch, by Jim and Lynne weberSend your nature-related questions to [email protected] and we’ll do our best to answer them.
CAVErNs & CAVEsMillions of years ago, the great seas that stood
over Texas deposited the makings of thick layers of limestone. As the land rose and the seas fell, eons of rainfall leached out hollows, deep pits, and underground streambeds, and over time, these deeply hidden worlds built a silent beauty. Today, Texas is riddled with over three thousand known caves and sinkholes, most of them in the Edwards Plateau region of central Texas. The most important factor in cave
formation is the presence of carbon dioxide in water, the main source of which is found in the soil. Rains form a weak carbonic acid that drives the progressive process of dissolution, a process that is more common in limestone than in any other type of rock. Fractures in the limestone allow this weak acidic water to fill voids in the rock, and as the water flow eventually decreases and the water table recedes, caves may become dry or partially dry.
Some of the carbon dioxide that was in the water is released into the cave atmosphere, causing the water to become less acidic, and the calcium carbonate dissolved in it begins to form tiny crystals or precipitate. Individual crystals build upon one another, and a steady drip from a cave ceiling can create a wide variety of cave formations. There are downward-building stalactites, upward-growing stalagmites, and if the two grow together they can form a column. Ribbons of stone can develop into shapes resembling draperies, curtains,
soda straws, coral, pearls, and even strips of bacon! The unusual and ever-changing environment of a cave with its
constant darkness, temperature, and relative humidity creates unique and interesting inhabitants. Scientists believe that many are relic species, isolated populations that were left to follow their own evolutionary path.
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Those species truly adapted to caves have reduced eyes & pigment, slender bodies, and extra long legs, which allows the animal to spread itself over a larger surface area in such a food-poor environment. These extreme adaptations can be seen in many of central Texas’ threatened and endangered species such as cave salamanders, beetles, spiders, pseudoscorpions, and other cave invertebrates. While several species of bats inhabit Texas caves – almost 100 million in about a dozen caves – they routinely leave the caves in search of food and therefore show the least adaptation and restriction to these environments.While many central Texas caves are considered “wild”
and are explored mainly by expert cavers, geologists and biologists, seven of these caves are considered “show” caves, or caves that have been developed enough to be enjoyed by the general public. Natural Bridge Caverns, located north of San Antonio, is the largest commercial cave in Texas, and full of draperies, curtains, stalagmites, and stalactites. Cascade Caverns in Boerne, otherwise known as the “Peep in the Deep”, has a 90-foot waterfall when conditions are wet. Wonder World Cave in San Marcos is the
oldest commercial cave in Texas, where you can find ceilings full of fossils and directly view the waters of the Edwards aquifer as well as the underside of the Balcones fault line. Longhorn Caverns in Burnet was used for shelter by the Comanche Indians and for worship by a local church, and has large calcite crystals filling its walls. Inner Space Caverns in Georgetown features soda straw ceilings and an underground theater for educational programs. The Caverns of Sonora, a short drive from Sonora, was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1966, and is one of the most active caves in the world, with over 95% of its formations still growing. The Cave Without a Name, just northeast of Boerne, holds the state’s best examples of cave bacon, one of which is almost 22 feet long!As unique features of the land, caves are protected by
Texas law, and benefit from the stewardship of cavers, cave owners, and the general public. Marvel at the formations (but don’t touch), seek to understand their origins, and remember, summer is the perfect time to get out of the Texas heat by heading down into a cave!
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REGISTERTODAY!
healthier homesBy: Michelle and Charlie Bubnis
Non-toxic relief from MosquitoesThat high pitch hum in your ear…summer is here and the
mosquitoes have arrived. It’s time to take action but let’s keep the family protected and safe.Don’t use any mosquito spray that contains DEET (diethyl
toluamide). DEET is a very effective insect repellant but not the best choice for the families’ health.DEET is a known neurotoxin, causes kidney and liver damage and
has been implicated in birth and developmental defects. “Children in particular are at risk for subtle brain changes caused by chemicals in the environment, because their skin more readily absorbs them, and the chemicals more potently affect their developing nervous systems.” ¹ The World Health Organization (WHO) states that over 30% of the global burden of disease in children can be attributed to environmental factors, including pesticides.²If the bottle of repellant you are planning to purchase contains
DEET the label will say: may damage furniture finishes, watch crystals, leather, painted or varnished surfaces. This is a very harsh chemical that shouldn’t be sprayed on the skin.So what are some other options? Vinegar, either white or apple cider
will work. Put it in a salad dressing bottle and sprinkle it on exposed skin. There are also herbal oils the are recommended such as tea tree, cedar, peppermint, citronella, eucalyptus and lemongrass. Mix these oils with cooking oil to dilute prior to putting on the skin.If you wish to purchase insect repellant BUG OFF ³ from Dr.
Mercola is a healthier option. It contains several of the essential oils listed above.
Mosquitoes are attracted to light colored clothing especially yellow. They zero in on fragrances from scented body care products, laundry detergents and scented fabric softeners. The use of unscented fragrance free products decreases the families’ neurotoxic exposure but also keeps mosquitoes searching for another meal. Mosquitoes do not like the smell of garlic so by using a product called Mosquito Barrier( a very potent garlic solution) on the lawn, this will repel mosquitoes from the yard.Check the external home environment. Be sure to empty any
standing water around the home because this will provide the mosquitoes with a breeding ground. Consider putting up a bat house. A bat can eat approximately 600 mosquito sized insects an hour. With these measures in place your family will probably not hear a
high pitch hum in the ear this summer. The mosquitoes will find a better location than your home for their next meal.
For more learning and resources:1 Duke University Medical Center (2002, May 2) DEET Brain
Effects in Animals , Warrant Caution2 Beyond Pesticides Fact Sheet: Children and Pesticides Don’t Mix,
Debra Lyn Dadd: About Natural Mosquito Relief, www.1001nets.net, cotton mosquito nets form Australia
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regular Checkups big part of staying healthyRegular screenings are an important part of staying healthy, but it’s
hard to remember what tests are needed at what age. Baylor College of Medicine doctors offer guidelines to help maintain good health through the ages.“It is very important at any age to have regular health screenings,”
said Dr. Steve Rosenbaum, assistant professor of medicine at BCM and section chief of general internal medicine at Baylor Clinic. “It allows us to appreciate our good fortune for good health, and regular exams can detect problems early, so they can be treated and dealt with more expeditiously.”As we age, it is even more important to have regular screenings,
kind of like having a favorite old car that we have to “baby” along, Rosenbaum said. He recommends people come in during their birth month. That way it’s very easy to remember.
Just how often people should visit their doctor for regular checkups and screenings is a common question. For people with no chronic health issues, rosenbaum suggests:-People in their 30s should have checkups every two to three years-By 40, checkups are recommended every 12 to 18 months-Annual checkups starting by 50
rECOMMENdEd sCrEENINgs INCLudE: ChILdrEN-Hearing -Vision-Height/weight/Body mass index-Blood pressure-Speech and motor skills development -Social/behavioral skills
TEENs-Pap smear-Sexually transmitted infection screening if sexually active-Vision
20s -Vision -Pap smear-Lipid test
30s -Baseline mammogram at 35 -Vision -Pap smear (Continued on Page 7)
There are many factors that could influence the frequency of screenings.Family history of certain illness and risk factors should be discussed
with your doctor. For some illnesses, like skin or colorectal cancer, if a first degree relative has been diagnosed, screening could be recommended to begin in the early 20s. Remember, talking about family medical history with your doctor
is just as important as staying up to date on your checkups.
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Austin newcomers Luncheon, June 17, 2009
place: Green Pastures Restaurant 811 West Live Oak St. Price $20.00 per person
Time: 11:00 A.M. Social 12:00 Noon Luncheon
Reservations must be received by Thursday, June 11, 2009
guest speaker: Rhoda Mae Kerr, Fire Chief of the Austin Fire Department
rhoda mae Kerr bioRhoda Mae Kerr is a fourth-generation
firefighter with 26 years experience in the field. She is currently the Fire Chief of the Austin Fire Department and most recently served in that same position with the city of Little Rock, Arkansas; she was also Assistant Fire Chief at Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Chief Kerr brings a Master’s in Public Administration, Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education and Health, an Associate’s degree in Fire Science Technology, and a certification from the Harvard University program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government. Prior to entering the fire service, Chief Kerr was a coach and physical
education teacher at the high school level for 12 years.Chief Kerr heads the Human Relations
Committee of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, is Southwest Director of the National Society of Executive Fire Officers, and is actively involved as a Rotarian, along with other community and professional organizations. She was a member of the Arkansas Women Executives, Arkansas Women’s Leadership Forum, and an active member of the Arkansas State Fire Chief ’s Association. She is an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying cycling, golf, tennis, and skiing.
Do you have a picture of an event that you would like to run in the Lakewood Leader? Send it to us and we will publish it in the next issue. Email the picture to averyranch@
peelinc.com. Be sure to include the text that you would like to have as the caption.
Pictures will appear in color online at www.PEELinc.com.
Newsletter Article Submissions Interested in submitting an article? You can do so by emailing [email protected] or by going to http://www.peelinc.com/articleSubmit.php. All news must be received by the 9th of the month prior to the issue. So if you are involved with a school group, scouts, sports etc – please submit your articles for the Ranch Review. Personal news for the Stork Report, Teenage Job Seekers, special celebrations and military service are also welcome.
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The Ranch Review is a private publication published by Peel, Inc. It is not sanctioned by any homeowners association or organization, nor is it subject to the approval of any homeowners association or organization, nor is it intended, nor implied to replace any publication that may be published by or on behalf of any homeowners association or organization. At no time will any source be allowed to use the Ranch Review Newsletter contents, or loan said contents, to others in anyway, shape or form, nor in any media, website, print, film, e-mail, electrostatic copy, fax, or etc. for the purpose of solicitation, commercial use, or any use for profit, political campaigns, or other self amplification, under penalty of law without written or expressed permission from Peel, Inc. The information in the newsletter is exclusively for the private use of Peel, Inc.
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Eight water safety rules for a safe Austin summerSubmitted by Lynn Neillie
1. Always have a pool gate around home pools. This includes having a locked and securely fastened gate that is not accessible to little ones.
2. Continuously educate children on water safety. This is a great thing to do at home, on the boat, at the pool, wherever there is water. Each time you are getting your little one ready for a swim session or water play, go over the rules of water safety. Repetition is key with small children. Make sure your swim instructor incorporates a “Safety Lesson of the Week” into its lesson curriculum. This includes questions about water safety and how to avoid dangerous situations.
3. Designate a “Water Watcher.” This is a responsible adult who sticks to alcohol-free beverages during swim time and who is in charge of keeping both eyes on the pool while it is in use. Or, better yet: consider renting a Lifeguard for your party or group event.
4. Remove all pool toys, floaters, ring buoys and other child-enticing items from the pool area when it is not in use. One wrong reach for that floating rubber ducky could be disaster.
5. Clear homes of common household items that can be dangerous to a curious toddler. It takes just 2 inches of water for a child to drown in a bucket. Put all mop buckets, dog dishes and coolers out of children’s reach.
6. Never leave a young child in the pool or bathtub--even “just to get the phone.”
7. Enroll your child in swim classes. Start lessons early. The longer a child has lessons the more they understand water safety. A great time to do this is in the spring! This way your kids are already prepped and ready to roll for the summer swim season. You’ll want to find an inside heated pool and lesson times geared towards working families.
8. Supervise, Supervise, Supervise! Try to have your eyes on your children in and around the pool at all times. Adults should always be present when any child is in the pool area.
Let’s help our kids love the water while also respecting it by being safe and well-trained at all levels.
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what to do About my tired pC? part IISubmitted by Laurie Scott
Can I build a computer cheaper than buying one? If you want a laptop – no. If you want a desktop, then most of the time – no. The major manufactures (Dell, HP (and Compaq), Toshiba and Sony have the advantage of volume to be able to sell entry level (but still powerful) PC’s for under $500. If you try hard, you could probably shop the parts yourself and perhaps build one (including the monitor) for that, but then YOU become the warranty. If it breaks – YOU fix it. If you need support, YOU search Google. But if you enjoy the challenge or just want to learn how to do it – it’s not that hard, go have fun. Online stores like Newegg.com has everything you need to build the ultimate computer.Do you like to play the most current computer games? Do you like
to edit large photos and print them out? Are you the next Steven Spielberg and like to play with making movies on your computer? Well, then it’s time for a new computer. All of these can be both processor intensive (the Intel or AMD chip inside your computer) and memory intensive. Standard versions of Windows XP and Vista are 32-bit (don’t worry about the geeky term) and can only use about 3GB (3 gigabytes) of memory. If you purchase your computer with the 64-bit versions of Windows, then you can use as much memory
as you can afford. 8GB is usually enough even for the avid home movie producer. The current Macs are already 64-bit so memory limitations are not an issue.Should I buy a Mac or a PC? Well, (guess what’s coming…..) that
depends. Windows has come a long way in the photo, music and video editing space, and if you’re already comfortable with Windows, I’d stay with it. Do you have a child in school and Macs are the computers they use, then going with a Mac would be an easier decision. Are you new to computing and on a tight budget? Without question, Windows. If the budget isn’t so much a problem, then a Mac might be a little easier to start with. One more thing to consider is who you will call if you need help. If you have friends with Macs, go with a Mac. If everyone you know uses Windows, then you may want to go that way. Walking through the computing minefield is always easier with someone who has been there.
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Peel, Inc.311 Ranch Road 620 S. Ste 200Lakeway, TX 78734-4775www.PEELinc.com
