Getting Wimberley to wear a mask

The world is going through a time that is totally unpredictable, news changing from day to day, event to event. Urging people to wear a mask can cause conflict, but with the huge jump in COVID-19, the present situation is getting more and more serious. Each day there are more cases in Hays County and the valley. Simple steps can be taken, like social distancing and wearing masks that cover the mouth and nose.

So what’s a good way to get people to wear masks while shopping inside or in close quarters on the street?

Why not promote mask wearing with a cartoon-like graphic, friendly and Wimberley looking. The design had to be nothing too threatening…but serious-looking enough to get the point across. The design should be in English and Spanish.

Wimberley is unique as it is a tourist town. Small businesses depend on visitors and tourists. That is the big draw of scenic Wimberley…quaint, small, unique shops that give visitors time and unique products.

“The City Council established a “Back to Business” Task Force to meet weekly to talk about opening the city back up and how to do it safely. We knew masks were an important component of any plan, along with social distancing. We, on the committee, wanted to encourage mask-wearing in a positive way,” Rebecca Minnick, Place One Council Member / Mayor Pro Tem.

Matthew and Rachel Buchanan, owners of the Leaning Pear, have been a big part of the community, being close to the Square and the center of town. They just happen to have a great chalkboard artist, Emily Milks, employed as a waitress at the restaurant. She’s the one who draws on the chalkboard at the restaurant the daily specials with flair, making an everyday message board into a work of art.

The Buchanan’s came up with the “Wear One For Wimberley,” the slogan on banners and stickers displayed around town. Emily drew it on the chalkboard and everyone loved the whole idea. “I do a lot of chalkboards for the Pear. I like to dabble in art,” she said. “Rebecca comes in a lot and discusses things. I was thrilled they got permission (to use my drawing) …“We help each other out, everyone supported what I was doing.”

But getting a chalkboard drawing onto banners and stickers is another matter. That’s where Heather Carter comes in. She does graphic design for Imagine Wimberley.

“We made it together and liked it. A banner would make people realize what it means to the local economy. The community depends on it,” Heather said. The finished product is now on display all over town, reminding everyone, keep it covered.