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Posted on April 17, 2026 12:21 PM by Admin
Categories:
Education
When Sleep Isn’t Really Sleep: A Community Conversation That Hit Home
Most of us don’t really think about sleep until something seems wrong. Maybe you wake up tired, toss and turn at night, or someone mentions that you snore loudly. Over time, these things can start to feel normal.
But last week’s Community Education Seminar at Quail Point Lodge made us rethink what’s really normal when it comes to sleep.
About 20 people attended as Dr. Ronald Prehn gave an eye-opening talk on sleep apnea. He explained things in a way that was easy to understand, but some facts were a bit unsettling. Once you learn what really happens during disrupted sleep, it’s hard to forget.
Sleep Is Not “Shut Down” Mode
One of the first important points was simple: sleep doesn’t mean the brain shuts off. In fact, the brain stays very active.
Dr. Prehn explained that normal sleep cycles are about 75 percent non-REM sleep and 25 percent REM sleep. REM is the stage linked to dreaming and memory. These cycles repeat all night, letting the body repair itself and the brain organize information.
In short, sleep is hard at work for us.
But when sleep keeps getting interrupted, the effects can build up over time.
What Sleep Apnea Really Looks Like
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring. It’s a condition where breathing gets blocked during sleep, often at the base of the tongue. This limits airflow and makes the body work hard just to keep breathing while trying to rest.
Dr. Prehn went over some common warning signs. Many people ignore these or just get used to them:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Pauses in breathing followed by gasping or snorting
- Waking up choking
- Frequent waking or restless sleep
- Daytime fatigue
- Acid reflux
- Teeth grinding and nighttime clenching
The last point really stood out. Many people clench or grind their teeth at night without realizing it’s their body’s way of trying to keep the airway open. It’s not just a dental problem—it can be a sign that breathing is a struggle during sleep.
A Startling Reality
A memorable moment came when a video explained why we snore. The room grew quiet—not the relaxed kind, but the kind where people start to realize what’s really going on.
What seems like just a nuisance can actually be a serious health risk. Research from the presentation shows that heavy snoring is linked to a higher risk of stroke and heart disease.
Even more surprising was learning that during apnea events, the body has to choose between sleeping and breathing. When this happens night after night, it really takes a toll.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
The good news is that sleep apnea can be diagnosed and treated.
Diagnosis might include questionnaires, a clinical exam, or sleep studies. Some of these can even be done at home.
After diagnosis, treatment options depend on each person’s needs:
Lifestyle adjustments such as weight management, reducing alcohol intake, improving sleep habits, and side sleeping
CPAP and related devices that maintain airway pressure
Oral appliance therapy, including custom dental devices that reposition the jaw to keep the airway open
In some cases, surgical options
One important takeaway was that not everyone can use traditional CPAP machines. Dr. Prehn pointed out that many patients have trouble with them over time, so having other options is important.
A Real Impact
Since the seminar, some attendees have already told us they found the information helpful and timely.
One person shared that she’s struggled with sleep apnea for over four years without finding a good solution. After the session, she felt she understood her situation better and had a new sense of direction.
Stories like this are exactly why these events are important.
Continuing the Conversation
If you couldn’t make it, here is a copy of Dr. Prehn's presentation. Additionally, here are the resources that he recommends:
Sleep is one of the most important—and most often overlooked—parts of our health. When we sleep well, everything feels easier. When we don’t, it affects almost every part of our lives.
Sometimes, just understanding what’s going on can make all the difference.
And sometimes, it starts with realizing that “just snoring” shouldn’t be ignored.
Posted on February 25, 2026 2:34 PM by Admin
Categories:
Education
Community Education Event | February 24, 2026 | Quail Point Lodge
If you have ever opened your property tax appraisal and felt your blood pressure rise, you were not alone. On Tuesday, February 24, our Community Education Series welcomed back William “Gib” Portwood for an eye-opening and empowering session on Protesting Property Taxes. And yes, it was more interesting than that title sounds.
Gib, a West Point graduate and former investment research analyst who has been a full-time Property Tax Consultant since 2018, did not waste time easing into it. He made one thing clear: there is real value in knowing you can protest.
First, the Big Fear: “Will They Punish Me?”
This is where the room visibly relaxed.
Gib explained that under Texas law, when you file a protest, your valuation cannot increase as a result. It can go down but not up because you challenged it. That change has removed much of the hesitation among homeowners.
He also emphasized something many people quietly worry about: there is no retribution for protesting. It is your legal right. You are not being “difficult.” You are participating in a formal process designed for review.
In his words, protesting your value is very much a game. The key is knowing how to play it.
The Over 65 Exemption: Critically Important
One of the most valuable parts of the presentation focused on the over-65 homestead exemption. Gib stressed that this exemption is not a minor discount. It is strategically important for long-term financial stability.
When you qualify for the Over 65 homestead exemption:
- Your school district property taxes are capped at the amount you paid the first year you qualify.
- Your taxable value is lowered by an additional exemption amount.
- You may qualify for tax deferral options.
- It applies only to your primary residence homestead.
In practical terms, that cap can protect retirees from year-after-year increases in school district taxes. For many households on a fixed income, it is critical.
What Happens at a Protest?
Gib walked attendees through the actual process so it does not feel mysterious.
First, there is often an informal negotiation with the local CAD office. This stage allows review of evidence without strict time limits. Then comes the formal hearing before the Appraisal Review Board. These hearings are short, often less than 10 minutes.
That time limit matters.
Because of that constraint, most homeowners never get through all their evidence. Gib strongly recommended bringing at least three physical copies so everyone at the table can review them efficiently. Organization, clarity, and time management matter.
He also explained that not all protest strategies are equal. Here are the procedures for Llano CAD Appraisals.
Unequal Appraisal Protest
Gib recommended using an Unequal Appraisal Protest in most cases. In his experience, this approach tends to produce the maximum reduction for homeowners. Rather than arguing abstract market value alone, it focuses on how your property is appraised relative to comparable properties.
Good, relevant evidence wins.
And he has receipts. In the presentation, he shared examples of significant reductions achieved through arbitration and, when necessary, lawsuits. The takeaway was not that everyone will see a dramatic cut but that preparation and strategy matter. Here is more information about Unequal Appraisal Protests.
Realistic Expectations
Gib was also clear about limits. You cannot protest your taxes to zero. If you are over 65 and already capped, your strategy may look different. But that does not mean you should ignore your appraisal.
Generally speaking, he said yes. You should protest.
Not emotionally or angrily, but intelligently.
Why This Matters
Property taxes are not a one-year issue. They are a long-term financial variable. Even modest reductions compound over time. Hundreds of dollars saved each year add up to thousands over a decade. For retirees, this can protect cash flow. For working families, it frees up capital for investments, repairs, or breathing room.
The event was practical, focused, and refreshingly straightforward. No theatrics. Just data, strategy, and clarity.
If you missed it, the main message is this: you have rights, the system has rules, and knowing both can protect your financial future.
And if you ever feel your appraisal jumped in a way that does not quite make sense, you now know the first move. Here is a copy of Gib's presentation.
Posted on January 23, 2026 12:56 PM by Admin
Categories:
Education
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, the Horseshoe Bay community gathered for a standout Community Education event as Karen Calderon Schweitzer and Dr. William Schweitzer presented New Year, New You at Quail Point Lodge. From the first slide to the final question, the presentation delivered exactly what it promised: practical guidance, realistic habits, and a reflective approach to long-term health after 50. The room was full, the audience attentive, and the energy stayed high throughout the afternoon.
Rather than focusing on extremes or unrealistic resolutions, Karen framed the session around small, consistent habits that add up over time. Movement was presented as achievable and adaptable, not intimidating. Strength training, balance, mobility, and cardio were discussed in ways that acknowledged where people are, emphasizing independence and quality of life instead of perfection. The message was clear: you do not need to overhaul your life to feel better. Start, stay consistent, and give yourself credit for progress.
Nutrition was a natural highlight, as Karen’s expertise in this area shone through. Eating well was framed as making smarter swaps rather than eliminating joy. Simple guidance, such as filling half the plate with vegetables, choosing low-fat proteins, and staying mindful rather than restrictive, connected with the audience. The idea of enjoying food while still supporting health was met with nods and understanding smiles. Karen’s advice was sustainable, which is why the presentation landed so well. Check out this awesome handout recap.
Dr. Bill Schweitzer’s portion of the presentation delivered clarity and credibility to the conversation around skin health and skin cancer awareness. His explanations were easy to follow, based on science, and delivered without sensationalism. Attendees learned why sun protection matters at every age, how to properly use sunscreen, and why early detection makes such a significant difference. Importantly, the discussion reinforced that skin care is not cosmetic vanity. It is a long-term investment in health.
One of the strongest moments of the afternoon came during the question-and-answer portion. The audience was engaged, thoughtful, and comfortable asking questions that mattered to them. From nutrition habits to skin screenings and sun exposure, the discussion felt collaborative rather than rushed. It was clear that people left not just informed, but empowered to make better choices and have more productive conversations with their medical providers.
New Year, New You was a perfect example of what the Community Education Series is meant to be: accessible, informative, and genuinely useful. It respected the audience’s intelligence, acknowledged real-life challenges, and gave guidance that was achievable rather than overwhelming. Thanks to Karen Calderon Schweitzer and Dr. William Schweitzer, attendees left with a renewed perspective, practical tools, and a strong sense that improving long-term health is possible at any stage of life.
Posted on August 15, 2025 4:47 PM by Admin
Categories:
Education
On Wednesday, August 13, as part of the Horseshoe Bay POA’s Community Education Series, TxDOT Project Engineer Joe Muck delivered a detailed and engaging presentation at Quail Point Lodge about the proposed Wirtz Dam Road Project. The project aims to create a new roadway connection between RM 1431 in Marble Falls and RM 2147 in Cottonwood Shores, a 3.68-mile stretch, and to construct a new bridge over Lake Marble Falls.
(Joe Muck - Professional Engineer, TxDOT, Burnet County)
The proposed plan would reconstruct Wirtz Dam Road as a two-lane, undivided roadway with 12-foot-wide lanes and 10-foot shoulders in each direction. The project’s stated purpose is to reduce congestion on US Highway 281, improve mobility and emergency response times, and provide another crossing over the Colorado River. Traffic analysis indicates that 14% of vehicles on RM 1431 are traveling to a destination along RM 2147 via US 281. The new bridge could divert an estimated 4,600 northbound and 3,300 southbound vehicles from US 281 each day.
Joe Muck explained that large-scale infrastructure projects like this can take many years—often decades—from conception to completion. TxDOT’s process involves continuous input from both the public and local officials, and feedback is welcome at any stage. Burnet County is currently completing an environmental study in compliance with national policy, and importantly, the proposal involves no residential displacements.
The Wirtz Dam Road Project is a joint effort between Burnet County and TxDOT. Current efforts include coordinating with utilities such as PEC and LCRA for relocation designs, working with landowners to address project impacts, and finalizing drainage easement requirements. Heather Ashley-Nguyen, Director of Transportation Planning and Development for TxDOT’s Austin District, joined the presentation to assist with the Q&A session.
Audience members were attentive and asked thoughtful questions, with some expressing concern about potential traffic increases along RM 2147. TxDOT encouraged ongoing community involvement and emphasized that public engagement is an integral part of the project’s planning process.
For more information or to share feedback, call TxDOT’s Burnet Office at 512-756-2316 or visit www.txdot.gov.
(Left-right: Whit Holcomb, HSBPOA; Heather Ashley-Nguyen, P.E. TxDOT; Joe Muck, P.E. TxDOT during Q&A)
For a copy of the entire presentation, click here. The HSBPOA Community Education Series strives to inform and engage Horseshoe Bay residents by connecting them with experts, resources, and timely topics that impact our community.
Posted on August 11, 2025 4:36 PM by Admin
Categories:
Education
On the morning of August 6, the Hill Country Choir and Gun Club hosted a highly informative session at Quail Point Lodge featuring Llano County Elections Administrator Andrea Wilson, who offered an inside look at how elections are run, and how they’re changing.
(Above picture is Buck Kelsey from HC Choir & Gun Club)
Wilson, who has served as Llano County’s Elections Administrator for the past three years, described her role as “the most challenging job I’ve ever had,” adding that she absolutely loves it. Her presentation shed light on the immense effort required to plan and execute elections, from rigorous ballot security to navigating constantly evolving laws. “Most people have no idea what we do to make an election happen,” she said, and by the end of the presentation, attendees left with a newfound appreciation for the work her office does.
A large portion of the conversation centered around Senate Bill 2753, which introduces significant changes to how early voting will operate in Texas. Wilson clarified that no part of the bill will go into effect this fall. Instead, local officials will begin planning to start this fall, with the latest required implementation date being August 1, 2027. Realistically, Wilson anticipates the first statewide election conducted under the new rules may occur in May 2027, due to the complexity and coordination required across all 254 Texas counties.
Key changes under SB 2753 include a later start to early voting (moving from Monday to Thursday), expanded daily hours, and the inclusion of weekend voting and holidays. Early voting will be extended to the Monday prior to the Tuesday Election Day. These changes are designed to improve access but will also require significant planning and resources to execute smoothly. Wilson also noted that under the bill, early and absentee ballots will no longer be counted right after the polls close on election night, meaning final results may take longer to report.
She also addressed curbside voting, emphasizing that it's intended only for voters who are physically unable to enter the polling place. New safeguards are being introduced to ensure this service is used as originally intended, not as a convenient alternative to in-person voting.
Wilson spoke about the possibility of Llano County adopting a county-wide voting model in the future, where voters can cast their ballots at any polling place in the county rather than being tied to a specific precinct. She made clear that this is not yet confirmed, but is something she hopes can coincide with the SB 2753 rollout. Importantly, the final decision lies with the Llano County Commissioners’ Court.
Attendees also learned about the differences between primary elections, which are funded and requested by political parties, and general elections, which are administered by the county. Throughout the presentation, Wilson highlighted the strict chain-of-custody protocols that safeguard ballots and equipment, reinforcing the transparency and integrity built into the election process.
(Above picture: Andrea Wilson presenting to the Hill Country Choir and Gun Club)
To learn more or to volunteer during an election, residents can visit the official Llano County Elections Office website at https://www.co.llano.tx.us/page/llano.elections.
The Hill Country Choir and Gun Club meets some alternating Wednesday and Thursday mornings at Quail Point Lodge at 9:00 AM.
