Please remember that even during drought, you can water responsibly and still maintain a neat, well-kept yard.  It may take a little more effort than in years past, but maintaining our property values is worth it.  St. Augustine grass doesn’t go dormant – it dies.  If you’ve lost your yard to the summer heat and lack of water, you may want to consider overseeding with Rye grass for the winter.  This will help keep your soil intact and hopefully, ward off the mud pits when the rains (hopefully) come this winter.  You might also consider seeding with a drought tolerant Bermuda in the spring, once again for soil retention, and to cut down on weeds.  For more info on drought proof landscapes and grasses that can survive our summers,  see “Community” => “Gardening in Wells Branch”

Many of you will recognize Corporal Kevin Aigner’s familiar face.  He worked off duty for the MUD patrolling our parks on weekends and during special events.  An outstanding officer, he was an even greater human being.  Kevin was a kind, caring man who showed concern for everyone he met.  He served with the Travis County Constable’s Office and helped get the Explorer Post off the ground almost two years ago.  Allison Scott, 17, Lieutenant for Explorer Post 711, had this to say about “Aigner”, “In the 18 months or so that I have worked with the Constables Office as an Explorer, I have met some amazing people.  Corporal Kevin Aigner exemplified that, whether it was the way he cared about everyone he met, or the way he worked until the job was done.  My favorite thing about him was his smile.  I’m not known for my jokes, but he’d always laugh or at least smile.  The world is a better place for having him, and I’m a better person for having known him.”  This pretty much sums it up for all of us who knew Kevin.  We will miss your smile.  Peace be with you.