Liberty Hill Digest • May 2021 by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

Liberty Hill digest

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BEAUTY SET IN STONE DO-IT-YOURSELF IMPERIAL TREATMENT

IN THIS ISSUE Mother’s Day | Stories of Inspiring Love Education | The Vision for Career & Tech Education Seward Junction | Connectivity and Convenience

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INSIDE

FAVORITES 5

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Imperial Products Supply

EDUCATION INCubatoredu

MOTHER’S DAY Brazos Windchimes

18 20

EVERYDAY HERO A Belly for Ellie EXPERIENCE LIBERTY HILL Dancing Under the Stars Welcome to the Shooting Star Ranch Family

WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”? What Makes Texas Tasty

BELLE CHIMES IN Alpha Mom

FOOD Next-Level Memorial Day Food

Imperial Products Supply is open locally and provides beautiful stone products for builders, but also homeowners and retail customers too. Photos by Kendra Lynn Cofer Photography

FEATURES 12 A VISION FOR CAREER & TECH ED Rep. Terry Wilson on Article III Education

PARTING SHOT Wooly Rides At Liberty Hill Rodeo

14 TRANSPORTATION

Commissioner Cynthia Long on Seward Junction

Photo by Maranda Basey

ON THE COVER

85TH HOUSE SESSION, ARTICLE III Rep. Terry Wilson talks about the benefits to students in new Education Legislation and the future of Career & Tech Education in Texas

MOTHER’S DAY One mother’s journey to make beautiful things from ashes, and share comfort with all moms. Scan the code to hear the Phil Hamilton song that inspired the name.

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Liberty Hill digest

Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

PUBLISHER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ann Marie Kennon

Cathy Payne

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Megan Diane Beatty

Megan, a mom of two, has been a part of the Liberty Hill community for 11 years. Originally trained as a nurse, today, she channels her passion to help others into throwing birthday parties for kids battling cancer. Megan’s other passion is running, and that same zest for life flows into her writing and sharing the inspiring stories of Liberty Hill. SENIOR WRITER Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Christina Tucker • Kendra Cofer Charlotte Kovalchuk • Megan Diane Beatty SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR • Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES • Debbie Tolliver DISTRIBUTION • David Schumacher IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel

ADVERTISING Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-746-4545 mark@lhtxdigest.com

Liberty Hill Digest is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication. Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved. Liberty Hill Digest is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Liberty Hill, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to Liberty Hill Digest, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537.

Email: info@lhtxdigest.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE | MEGAN DIANE BEATTY Dear Readers, A mother’s love knows no bounds. We all hold the same title; we each have our own story and walk our own paths, but none of us are alone. There is so much beauty in knowing that. Happy Mother’s Day not only to my own mother who taught me the definition of love but to all the beautiful moms out there. I am so excited to bring you this issue of the Liberty Hill Digest. You will find two uplifting stories of mothers who truly make beauty from ashes. These ladies are the definition of inspiration and they motivate me to want to do more good in this world. I hope their stories inspire you the same way. The new INCubatoredu program coming to Liberty Hill High School in the 2021-2022 school year is beyond fascinating—what an incredible opportunity for our kids! I strongly encourage you to learn more about it because there is so much more than we can share here. Thank you Todd and Heather for bringing this new course to our ISD. You’ll also find out how the Seward Junction project will help alleviate traffic. Less crowded roadways means faster and safer commutes. May is also brain cancer awareness month, something I hold very dear to my heart. In 2018 my daughter, Haley, was diagnosed with brain cancer, and the journey was far from easy. As her mother, I wanted to kiss her and make it all better, but I couldn’t. It was out of my control and it broke my heart to watch her endure so much. She is in remission now and I thank God every day for her. I encourage you to wear grey in May, not only for Haley, but for all the brain cancer warriors out there. No one fights alone. Happy Memorial Day to our Veterans and service members as well.

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business spotlight

You Deserve the Imperial Treatment I M P E R I A L P R O D U C T S S U P P LY I S A FA M I LY - O W N E D B U S I N E S S . T H E I R B E AU T I F U L P R O D U C T S ARE ALSO ON D I S P L AY I N T H E SHOWROOM OF THEIR SISTER CO M PA N Y I N ROUND ROCK. I T I L E T X . CO M

atural stone has been a prime building material for most of recorded history for good reason. From floors to full façades, nothing compares to the strength, durability, and endless luster of natural elements. Whether you are looking to upgrade your backsplash, create a backyard oasis, or complete an entire home, Imperial Products Supply, Inc. manufactures and wholesales real stone veneer, aggregates, and brick products for homes and commercial properties. They source their materials from all over Texas and are able to sample, supply, and ship their superlative products coast to coast.

FOR ALL MARKETS Imperial’s team of experts has the experience—and the right contacts—to make procurement for any project simple and affordable. Co-owner Juan Diosdado explains, “Many think of us as a supplier, but we are truly a one-stop shop for retail customers and contractors alike. We have been in the business for more than 20 years and our account managers have backgrounds in both markets, so we are prepared to recommend and furnish decorative materials for the exterior and interior of any home or business.”

But Imperial’s collaborative spirit does not end there. Customers who visit their website will find a very unique online calculator (ImperialProSupply.com) that enables customers to estimate material needs for themselves. Juan says, “Some businesses do not like to share the secret of project estimates, but we make it available to the public. We know customers are not professionals when it comes to calculating how many yards, tons, or bags they might need. With our online tool, everyone can be certain they are ordering and paying only for what they need.”

THE PERFECT CUSTOMER Juan says Imperial staff love to work with custom ideas and anyone who is looking for something different. “We work hard to hone the instincts of our staff to understand customer vision and take the time to make it a reality. We are most happy when we are able to look at a plan in the design phase and identify ways in which our products can make the vision even more beautiful, economical, and energy efficient.” Call Juan or visit their website to learn more about why Imperial is popular all over the Lone Star State, as well as their eagerness to design and build wherever there is a desire for Texas stone.

Not only do they supply building and landscaping materials—masonry and stucco to roof tiles and mulch—Imperial offers educational seminars for architects and designers. Their training keeps everyone in the business on the cutting edge of new products and trends, and best practices for pricing and cost. Training even includes a IMPERIAL PRODUCTS SUPPLY • 512-991-9000 hands-on stone cutting to lend a 24500 RONALD REAGAN BLVD, LIBERTY HILL sense of the material and how it MON-FRI 7AM-5PM • SAT 7AM-2PM becomes showroom-ready. photos by Kendra Lynn Cofer Photography

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education

by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com

Nurturing 21st Century Skills

ast month, Liberty Hill Assistant Superintendent Todd Washburn presented a new business program, INCubatoredu, to the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce. The ISD will begin offering the program during the 2021-22 school year and, already, Todd is quite passionate about its potential. “In the 30 years that I have been in the education field, this is one of the most engaging, real-world experiences courses I have seen, and I am excited for our students,” he says.

FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS INCubatoredu is full-year course that allows high school students to develop future-ready skills as they build real businesses. The curriculum includes authentic, collaborative entrepreneurship experience; i.e., foundational business concepts, models, and knowledge, and supports their individual or group development of original products or services. Throughout the process, students regularly connect with entrepreneurs and business experts who serve as volunteer coaches and mentors, and, in the process, learn how to start a business by actually starting a business. Todd explains, “This is an experiential class. It’s one where students will be working hands-on while creating their business. It’s learning by ‘doing’ and doing it in a very authentic way. They work in teams and develop all those 21st-century skills future employers or investors are looking for.” What sets INCubatoredu apart is that it is not something that gets written down on paper and goes home in a binder at the end of the school year. Students create

Left: Assistant Superintendent Todd Washburn • Above: Video pitch from national winning team from Vista Ridge High School in Leander. They received $12,000 and their app launched in June 2020.

original business plans with actual products and or services models that students pitch to judges at the end of the year in a true “Shark Tank” fashion. The program will raise money and host a community pitch night with guest judges. Ideally, and depending on how much money is donated, the program provides students with startup funding for the winners to implement their ideas.

PARTNERSHIPS NEEDED The classroom will have an INCubatoredu teacher, but what the school district really needs to enhance the experience for students, are business and community expert volunteers. LHISD is looking for volunteers to support students by serving as guest teachers and providing guidance to student teams throughout the year. 16 coaches 10 mentors 3-5 advisors To learn more about how you can help, contact Todd Washburn or Heather Bortz at Liberty Hill ISD (512) 2605580 or complete the google form using the QR code below, and someone will contact you with more information.

INCubatoredu

Community Kick-off Event Hosted by Liberty Hill ISD May 19th • Shooting Star Ranch

“ W H E N YO U H AV E A N I D E A , YO U H AV E A C H O I C E . YO U CO U L D P L A N , S AV E , O R S AY ‘ M AY B E S O M E D AY ’, O R YO U C A N M A K E I T A R E A L I T Y. S T U D E N T S A R O U N D T H E CO U N T R Y A R E G O I N G TO D I S CO V E R T H I S P O W E R O F TA K I N G A N I D E A A N D M A K I N G I T A R E A L I T Y.” – M I C H A E L M I L E S - CO F O U N D E R 6

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by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com

mother’s day

photos courtesy Maranda Basey

A Mother’s Ministry Another friend sent her a song called “The Brazos Wind” by singer/songwriter Phil Hamilton, and hearing her sweet boy’s name sung touched her. “Anytime I felt sad I’d say ‘I’m feeling the Brazos Wind today’ so, from there, I knew whatever I did would be called The Brazos Wind.” After hearing a mother who lost her baby found comfort in a wind chime, it hit her.

unday, May 2nd was Bereaved Mother’s Day—a day that honors mothers who have lost children, sometimes before they’ve had a chance to take their first breath. Each year 24,000 babies are stillborn in the U.S. and, since 2010, mothers who grieve a child have had this special day set aside to receive extra comfort and prayers from others. Maranda Basey gave birth to Brazos Boe, stillborn and still loved, on March 10, 2020. He was delivered straight into the arms of Jesus. “He had ten fingers and ten toes and was absolutely perfect,” she says. While in the hospital she felt very alone and abandoned, but it was in that dark place she realized there are other moms who feel what she feels. She began feeling the weight of the pain, not just for herself but for other mothers too; “I knew I had to use this horrible tragedy and turn it into something impactful, I just wasn’t sure what yet.” When she returned home she received a beautiful necklace from a friend, and a card with a perfectly-written “You are not alone.” They were the exact words she needed to hear, and that was when she knew she wanted to gift other moms facing tragedy like hers. From that moment forward pieces of her ministry began to fall into place.

Maranda began the process of designing a lightweight, simple, yet beautifully made and meaningful wind chime. She reached out to a friend who makes bracelets and asked her to make one that says “you are not alone” to include in the boxes. “God has pieced this ministry together so perfectly, just as He did with our sweet Brazos.” Today, The Brazos Wind donates boxes to St. David’s Hospital for mothers and families who experience this same loss.

W H E N YO U F E E L T H E W I N D B LO W T H I N K O F M E . A C H I M E TO R E M E M B E R , I N YO U R H E A R T I ’ L L A LWAY S B E . ~ M A R A N D A B A S E Y Maranda wants grieving mothers to know God did not abandon them and that it is normal to feel that feeling of abandonment. She says, “God must think we are pretty special to carry such a heavy story. Don’t get me wrong, the sting is still very real. When making boxes or talking about The Brazos Wind I get sick sometimes. I don’t want to be doing this ministry. I only want him, my baby, in my arms. A sweet little brother for his two big brothers. I have to hold onto the reality that there is a greater purpose. Believing that He can bring beauty from horrible, tragic ashes…that’s how I cope.” She encourages moms to share their story. It is meant to be read. She adds, “You are not alone and others need to hear it just as you need to hear theirs.” Scan the code for more information or do donate.

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texas

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

The Vision for Career & Tech Education T H E 86 T H T E X A S L E G I S L AT U R E I S T H I N K I N G O U T S I D E T H E B OX F O R T H E B E N E F I T — AND FUTURE—OF TEXAS STUDENTS.

s a long-time advocate for education finance reform, Representative Terry Wilson was likely the only person who was surprised he was named Chair of the House Subcommittee on Article III Appropriations. In simpler terms, Col. Wilson is tasked with leadership of the House subcommittee “where the money comes from to fund public education.” Fortunately, his background in billion-dollar acquisitions at the Department of Defense gives him ample expertise to manage the onethird of the State’s budget appropriated for public education.

FIRST, REFORM Rep. Wilson explains the legislature is re-working the education finance laws to ensure communities and schools are not in competition for the same dollars. He explains, “We slowed the rate of property taxes because 50 to 60 percent of our taxes goes to school funding. But, that also applied to taxpayers who are not making use of the public school system. Today, the State is taking on more of that burden to provide tax relief to property owners. Our Republican House is being diligent about making sure we are providing the resources our schools need while being respectful to everyone in the community.”

Rep. Wilson gets a first look at District 10's first student-built airplane in 2017

GETTING BACK TO SCHOOL Another priority for the legislature is making sure school districts receive the funds and support they need to continue the mission of educating the next generation. While schools in Texas are funded based on average daily attendance, changes due to COVID have created an alarming statistic that many children are enrolled but not attending in person, or participating virtually. Rep. Wilson says, “It is a travesty that we may have a generation of kids who did not receive the education they needed, but we hold the ISDs harmless in these unusual circumstances. As such, the Subcommittee’s primary focus is to make sure our districts have funding necessary to continue paying teachers based on pre-COVID attendance data.”

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He shared praise for local school districts, including Liberty Hill Superintendent, Steve Snell, who is a strong advocate for college, career and military preparedness and, moreover, the teachers who chose to continue to come to school to see to the wellness and education of our children. “My hat is off to the LHISD Trustees, as well, who have done excellent work in managing COVID expenses and restitution across the board,” he adds.

“NOW, LET’S GO TO MARS!” It is no secret Central Texas is benefiting from a significant influx of high-tech companies opening or relocating to the Lone Star State. In addition to the U.S. Army Futures Command, recent bids by Elon Musk, and Samsung are a harbinger of many career opportunities for the workforce in Williamson County.

texas SCAN THE CODE FOR DETAILS ABOUT WHERE CTEs ARE BEING OFFERED: PRINTING AND IMAGING, RETAIL, COSMETOLOGY, AVIATION, AND MORE... This is significant because our forward-thinking Legislature is on the verge of passing HB1525, which will push $260 million into vocational, and career and technical education (CTE) programs all over the state. Rep. Wilson sums up the need and the benefits; “Success is not only about a four-year college any more, and Texas is making sure every student has access to, and a path in a universe of opportunity as early as middle school.” Many Texas schools already have CTE programs that enable high school students to start on a pathway to certification that can end with a high-paying job right after graduation. But, a tri-agency workforce study showed the extent and geography of gaps in our skill sets. Rep. Wilson says, “Texas is very advanced in working with predominant skills sets, like agriculture, that are region-appropriate. The new paradigm is to go full throttle on appropriate CTE classes that will help schools fill demands of specific skill sets in every region. We want to prioritize training for electricians, HVAC, or automotive tech where the skills are needed. With newcomers like Tesla and Bitcoin, we are going to provide Cisco certifications and other expertise that will be in high demand.” Superintentent Snell listed just a few of the CTE offerings in LHISD, including construction trades, veterinary science, robotics, and computer science. “As we grow as a district, we will have even more. The message is that kids need a high level of skill whether they go career, college, or military out of

high school. Going career is not about not being a good student, it’s because it’s a great opportunity, and the more rigorous your classes, the more marketable you are.” What this means for students is a chance to start exploring new interests as early as middle school, and have the opportunity and choice to continue on those paths in high school. With state-supplied resources, students can continue through Level 4 certification before they even graduate high school, to turn their passions into a high-paying job without the expense of post-secondary education. Mr. Snell adds, “Our goal is to lead kids to where the work force needs are. It is our job, then, to give them all the information to help them make a good choice. College is always going to be there and if they can start life without debt, it’s a winwin.”

YOU BE THE BRIDGE The vision is for workforce and school demands to meet so Texas students will be prepared to fill those future jobs. These changes also offer opportunities for individual communities to contribute to the workforce with their respective skill sets and willingness to train up the next generation. The TEA offerings are based on statewide labor market data that support varying regional programs of study. However, each year, local education agencies with labor market data may apply for new regional programs of study. Rep. Wilson explains, “If there is a high demand for a particular skill set in a city or

region, local chambers of commerce can send a letter of endorsement and have that skill set added to the ‘menu’ of CTEs. Once accepted, the state will then pay for the necessary infrastructure; e.g., refurbished buildings or equipment. What’s missing are enough subject matter experts to train the students in specific lanes. As such, individuals and companies are encouraged to connect with the ISDs to share the responsibility to provide CTE instruction hours or fund apprenticeships to prepare these students with real-world experience.” In addition to community buy-in, there is great potential to ensure that all students are included, whether they attend public, private, or virtual school. “The expansion of video instruction means whenever an agency offers dual credit, or technical training, we just need to ensure there is enough broadband to allow access to it,” Rep. Wilson says. “We may even bring more kids back to public schools and raise parent satisfaction. I am prepared to push the envelope with this vision. Everyone is paying for public education whether they use it or not; let’s open the envelope, like they do in college, and let kids sign up for the classes they need, not just the ones where they are.” Contact Rep. Wilson at Terry. Wilson@house.texas.gov

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seward junction

by Charlotte Kovalchuk · charlotte@lhtxdigest.com photos courtesy of Williamson County

Faster Route Around US 183 Intersection

or Tammy Smith, driving to work meant facing traffic backup at the US 183 and State Highway 29 intersection whenever there was an accident or commuter congestion. Now, thanks to a new loop around Seward Junction, she can take a different route to work at the Pct. 2 Commissioner office in Cedar Park. “The first time I used it, there was an accident close to the intersection at 183 and 29 that had traffic backed up well past the intersection at Stonewall [Parkway],” she says. “I was able to take the new loop, avoid that area, and to get to work on time.” The Seward Junction project, which cost $13.3 million and took nearly two years to build, extends almost 3 miles from Hwy 29 at County Road 266 SW around 183 to 29 at County Road 213. The new twolane road opened March 16 and offers an alternate route for drivers who want to avoid traffic at the 29 and 183 intersection, as well as more efficient access points to connect to both major roads. Driven by Liberty Hill’s bursting-at-the-seams growth, the Seward Junction project has been part of the county’s Long-Range Transportation Plan since before Commissioner Long was elected in 2007, she says. “The Seward Junction Improvement Project is significant for the county as it will ultimately connect roads around the entire Seward Junction area,” Commissioner Long says. “As we continue to grow in the western portion of the county, it is incredibly important for alleviating traffic and improving safety throughout the SH 29 and 183 area.” Taking into account SH 29’s heavy truck traffic, the county decided to construct the road from concrete instead of asphalt, which will require less maintenance in the long run. While the new road has two lanes, the county already secured right-of-way for a total capacity of six. “We’re trying to do this with a lot of our road projects, to get the right-of-way secured now so we don’t disrupt businesses or people’s lives multiple times,” Commissioner Long says. “If we do it now, it will be much less disruptive in the future and additional lanes can be constructed when the need arises.” For Tammy and other drivers returning to the office after working remotely the last year, the Seward Junction project comes at just the right time. “With all the folks 14

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going back to work, and the number moving to the area, I feel like it’s going to be a great alternative for people to use when [the 183 and 29 intersection] gets backed up,” Tammy says. Commissioner Long envisions the project serving a wide range of users, from residents of subdivisions popping up along SH 29, to Burnet County commuters working in Austin or Cedar Park, as well as businesses that will receive more visibility from the Seward Junction Loop. To learn more about the Seward Junction Loop and other county road projects, visit wilco.org/roadprojects.

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HONOR AND MEMORIALIZE

BRICK OPTIONS

A custom engraved brick from the National Mounted Warfare Foundation will create a lasting tribute for someone special in your life, and preserve their memory for future generations. Your brick will be displayed on the grounds of the National Mounted Warrior Museum outside of Fort Hood, Texas.

Commemorative bricks are available in two sizes, 4” X 8” for $100 and 8” X 8” for $200. A 4” X 8” brick may have up to three lines of text, an 8” X 8” may have up to six lines. Each line may have up to 18 characters. You may also purchase miniature replicas of your brick - a 1.5” X 3” souvenir brick is $20 and a 3” X 3” is $30.

INSIGNIA ENGRAVED BRICKS Insignia and logo engraved bricks are available, but will incur a setup fee dependent on the complexity of the design. Pleas contact us directly for more information.

Each brick inscription will be reviewed for appropriateness. Bricks will be produced and emplaced upon completion of the museum - currently projected for late 2020

Commemorative Brick Program • 833-IN-HONOR • NMWFoundation.org • Mounted Warrior Museum Killeen, Texas 16

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everyday hero

by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com photos courtesy Stephanie Whitson

Mother’s Day: A Belly for Ellie

tephanie Whitson’s s idea of motherhood is next-level love. In 2015, a visit to Dell Children’s Hospital showed her a need she previously didn’t know existed— children waiting to be adopted who also need organ transplants. Sadly, children are ineligible to receive that gift of life until they have a forever home where they can be cared for, and a family willing to meet their special health needs. After learning the children had to spend long periods of time at the hospital, the Whitsons (photo right) took it upon themselves to make some of those gifts of life possible. They began the process of adding to their family with adopted sons and daughters. Stephanie takes no credit for her decision, saying only, “We are just a snapshot in the portrait God is painting for their lives.” Although she lost her son Julian in 2016 shortly after his kidney transplant, and Elijah 20 months later to a terminal illness, she has truly learned the value of having a family. The things that speak to her heart are having experiences together, making joyful moments, and never taking a second for granted.

MEET ELLIE On April 6, 2021, the Whitsons finalized their adoption for four-year-old Ellie, who is awaiting a multi-organ transplant. Stephanie says Ellie is a model of courage and has only ever shown bravery when dealing with her health. Fortunately, Ellie came into this world a fighter. She was born with gastroschisis, a birth defect in which the baby’s intestines extend outside of the abdomen through a hole next to the belly button. This occurs when muscles that make up the abdominal wall do not connect properly. Since birth, Ellie has had feeding challenges and the treatment has resulted in liver failure, leaving her in

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need of a multi-organ transplant. Any organ transplant typically requires regular doctor visits, blood tests, as well as medicine modifications to prevent rejection, infection, and other side effects. It can be especially challenging for a parent to manage all the issues related to a child who has received a transplant. Stephanie explains, “The medications and after-care are lifelong, so recipients are really just trading one sickness for another. As a result, if a child needs a transplant, she can’t get one unless she has a stable home and someone to help take care of the organs once they are in the body.” But the challenges are no comparison to the joy the Whitsons have these days. “We have loved Ellie since the first day we met her,” her mom says. “We are so excited for her to be our forever daughter. God is so good and so faithful. He more than answered our prayers for Ellie this far and we know that one day Ellie Whitson will get her transplant.”

everyday hero

A FAMILY AT THE READY On May 5th, while we were preparing to go to press, Ellie got the call that her multi-organ transplant was available. Literally, as I am writing this, the Whitsons are on an air ambulance and on their way to Omaha. Upon notification that a liver, small bowel, pancreas, and colon were available, they dropped everything and are making the critical trip. The whole family has been vigilant and prepared to make the fast and temporary move from Liberty Hill to Nebraska where Ellie will stay for six months for post-transplant treatment. Many who know or meet Stephanie are touched to know there is someone to care for precious children like Ellie, who will have a lifetime of special needs, just to give them a chance in life. Follow Ellie’s journey on Facebook using the QR code. Most importantly, the family is simply asking for prayers.

Editor’s Note: Everyone at the Liberty Hill Digest is thrilled for Ellie and our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Whitson family in this important time. We will include updates on Ellie on our page; Facebook/LHDigest.

Left: Ellie (4) • Above: Julian, Elijah, and Hannah

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EXPERIENCE LIBERTY HILL

Dancing Under the (Shooting) Stars

estled among the old-growth trees of the Hill Country, the Shooting Star Ranch offers a true taste of Texas. It is not only the perfect event venue, it is also a working ranch of nearly 150 acres, with a rich history and some friendly livestock. Next month, and every first Friday through October, the Ranch is hosting “Dancing Under the Stars” fundraisers to benefit local non-profits L4 Cares and Community Pathways. Ranch owners Shawn and Monty Oehrlein are looking forward to hosting these family-friendly events, which will feature live music by a different group each month, food trucks, and soft beverages. Guests are also free to bring their own hard beverages for a small cooler fee. Shawn says, “These are great organizations that we want to support and get behind. We will have plenty of volunteers to help people park and look around, and we’re looking forward to having fun with guests

of all ages. It’s a real piece of Texas and we have plenty of indoor space if there is bad weather. Of course, I’m really hoping for clear skies and gorgeous starry nights.”

MAKING WISHES Shooting Star Ranch was inspired by a wish Shawn made on a camping trip in 1990. On a weekend retreat with Monty, Shawn missed the shooting star he had seen. Fortunately, there was a meteor shower that night and when she looked around at the large trees, cattle grazing, and children laughing and running about, and knew what her wish would be. “I knew he was the guy for me and I hoped that one day I would own a property like this with this man,” she says. Years later, after living in several states and raising two children together, they were drawn to the beauty and history of a former dairy farm in Liberty Hill and purchased it. She recalls thinking, “It was kind of a dump at that time; we hauled off many loads of detritus, but I believe God protected this property for us to

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find it and be able to afford it.” The Oehrleins soon launched a heart-led repair and restoration of the barn and began hosting barn parties and dances. Looking back on the triumph their daughter’s 2016 wedding turned out to be, they began taking requests and booking events of all kinds. With a very rustic-meets-modern vibe, plus air conditioning and heat, the Ranch is the perfect place for everything from corporate retreats to senior photos. “Practically everywhere you look is a photo-op,” Shawn says. A brief tour of the property is a walk through time for her. Her curiosity about the old barn led her to the son of the chief carpenter who shared the timeline of the stone walls, expertly built by a mason from Fredericksburg, and whose “smear” is reflected in the many towns he stopped to work in on his way home. “There are only two buildings like this in Williamson County,” she says, “In addition to the solid stone work, it is made from five different types of wood shipped from all over the county.”

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com photos by Come and Shoot It Photography We feel blessed to be caretakers of this wonderful historic place. ~Shawn Oehrlein

D A N C I N G U N D E R T H E S TA R S • F I R S T F R I D AYS • J U N E T H R O U G H O C TO B E R $10 • 6:00 - 10:00 P M • 1704 CO R D 285 Shawn and Monty are proud of the changes they’ve created in the barn and on the property. “We didn’t build it from scratch, but we re-purposed, resourced, and restored everything for good purpose. Our goal is to connect with people who want something unique and individual.”

...COME TRUE Shawn is particularly affectionate about weddings, and takes being a part of those special days very personally. The bridal cottage is a restored milk barn with a foundation of fossilized shell-stone that was quarried just 1-1/2 miles away and built by locals in the early 20th century. It is a comfortable blend of function and charm, adorned with turquoise, lots of mirrors and great lighting, and

is a perfect choice for brides who want to connect with nature, history, and a beautiful piece of Texas. “It’s a oneof-a-kind location and the only remnant of the original 200-acre homesteads in the Liberty Hill area.” For other gatherings and events, Shawn is hoping people will see the beauty and schedule anniversaries, corporate retreats, birthdays, or just a daytime meeting. “We want guests to experience a little bit of Texas. We provide catering and have a plug-n-play presentation system for laptops or other devices.” She smiles as she takes in the pastoral scene she feels blessed to live on; “I don’t care if we have events every weekend; we’re just very into being personal and I want to make sure everything is how my guests want things to be.”

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by Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

What Makes Texas Tasty by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

TEXAS TASTE Not everyone is fortunate enough to have been born in Texas, but many who arrive in the state quickly learn, and refuse to live without the wonderful and famous tastes that originated here.

BLUE BELL ICE CREAM Blue Bell ice cream started on a hot summer day in 1907.

Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

Local businessmen in Brenham, Texas, founded the Brenham Creamery Company to make butter from excess cream brought in by area farmers. A few years later, they began making ice cream and delivering it to neighbors by horse and wagon. In 1930, the company changed

its name to Blue Bell Creameries after the native Texas bluebell wildflower. They continued to make butter until 1958 when Blue Bell began to focus full time on making ice cream. Texans got to keep Blue Bell to themselves until the 1980s, when they company began selling outside the state for the first time. It is now sold in 22 states and is well-known for being some of the best ice cream in the country.

WHATABURGER It’s not just any restaurant that can be lawfully declared a “Texas Treasure.” But, in 2001, during the 77th Texas Legislative Session, a bill was

tasty texas

passed proclaiming Whataburger just that. Never to be confused with the What-A-Burger chain in Virginia, the Texas company was founded in 1950 by Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton, who wished to “make a better burger when you took a bite you would say, ‘What a burger!’” Dobson’s goal was to make a burger so big it needed two hands, so he commissioned a bakery in Corpus Christi to custom make five-inch hamburger buns. When the bakery reported their pans were too small, he commissioned a manufacturer to create new pans to get it done. Dobson certainly had success in his DNA; when he wasn’t busy drilling for oil or working as a diamond courier, he was relaxing as an airplane pilot. It was his idea to paint the restaurants orange and white, so he would be able to identify them from the air. A 2015 poll from Fastcompany determined Whataburger is not only the best burger in Texas; it’s also the best in America. No Texans were surprised by this fact. You’re welcome, America.

DR PEPPER Dr Pepper was created in 1885 by Charles Alderton, a pharmacist worked in a drugstore in Waco. He liked mixing flavors at the fountain and wasn’t satisfied with the standard fruity mixes. The drink was originally called “The Waco” but legend has it that Charles named it “Dr. Pepper” after the father of a young girl he was once in love with. Although the original “Pepper” may have been a physician, the company dropped the period from the Dr in the 1950s as part of a redesign of the corporate logo; some say it was easier to read.

Like Coca-Cola, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Bush’s Baked Beans, the formula for Dr Pepper’s blend of 23 flavors is a closely guarded secret, although the company has admitted “prunes” are not one of those flavors. The drink was only available regionally for many years, mostly due to so many bottlers having been locked into agreements with Coke and Pepsi. But, in 1963, a federal court decided the unique flavor was not a “cola”, so companies all over the nation were able to produce and sell one or more of the big three drinks together. It is also one of few soft drinks that have a “hot” recipe for winter enjoyment... Heat Dr Pepper in a saucepan to 180°, place a thin slice of lemon in the bottom of a coffee mug or insulated cup, and pour the heated Dr Pepper over the lemon.

SHIPLEY DO-NUTS In 1936, Lawrence Shipley, Sr. created a recipe for gourmet Do-nuts. He cut the dough by hand and served his donuts hot all day out of his bakery in Houston. At first, his treats were sold wholesale for 5¢ a dozen, but within ten years, he was personally delivering his 60 varieties to retail markets. Shipley’s evolved into a solid family business; his wife and son managed the bakery and continued to serve up hot donuts while he was on the road. Today they have more than 300 stores in ten states. So, while Krispy Kreme (1937) may think they have the market cornered on hot-in-store donuts, our Texas pioneers beat them to it by a year.

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belle chimes in

t’s Mother’s Day. The day mom gets breakfast in bed and flowers. Who am I kidding... all I really want is 60 minutes to myself and maybe an off-budget $7.50 to get a quarter pounder and french fries I won’t have to share after my offspring snarfs his fries in 42 seconds and is “Still huuuungryyyyy.” I do love being a mom, of course. But it’s a lot of pressure. See, you may not know this yet, because everyone is busy fussing about the Zoomer-Boomer rivalry and how Millennials are starting to call themselves “old” (that sound you hear is my eyes rolling) but... the newest generation—born in the early 2010s—are called Alphas. I happen to be in a very, very tiny minority of Gen-Xers who have Alpha children. This means I have unique Venn diagram of things I’m teaching and translating to my son, with very few intersections of things he actually needs to know. I don’t imagine very many Millennials have ever told their Zoomer kids to “roll up” the window, “dial” or “hang up” the phone, or asked for a reminder to “tape” their favorite shows. I also get a really weird look when I say I want to “burn” a CD. My son is not old enough yet, but I am already wondering if I’ll ever have to teach him how to write a check. Don’t even get me started on mix tapes. Funny to think of how long those things actually existed. The more technological things are, the shorter their life span. Humans wrote checks for a couple of centuries. Those that had them, “dialed” a phone for about 70 years. Side note: As far as hanging up goes, there is absolutely no gratification in angrily pushing the END button like there was when you slammed a phone receiver into the cradle and enjoyed the resonating clang that followed you out of the room. Also, in sensory fun, wasn’t it equally satisfying to slap an actual book closed when you finished the last page... more so than gently sliding the button to “off” on a Kindle? Moving on...

Alpha Mom Media fans used VCRs from 1956 until the mid-2000s, and burned CDs for about 15 years. At this rate, maybe we will get lucky and TikTok will be obsolete by 2025. On the plus side, as a Gen-Xer, I am solidly and happily on the outside of much generational nitpicking. I think it’s hilarious that Zoomers tell Millennials their skinny jeans and side-parted hairdos are “old.” Those are the people who laughed at my slouch socks and turtlenecks, so they have it coming. I am unbelievably happy to sit back and proclaim, “I don’t care what anyone thinks of my momjeans, I still love Phil Collins, and yes, I have watched all 12 seasons of ‘Frasier’ many times, because it’s hilarious.” Perhaps I have simply reached the age of “Warning” by Jenny Jones, and didn’t realize it. Some of her best lines... When I am an old woman I shall wear purple With a red hat which doesn’t go, and doesn’t suit me. ...You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat And eat three pounds of sausages at a go And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes. I read that poem, the first time, in 1982 and it felt impossibly far away, but I think I might have arrived there. From this side of 50, I have a good understanding of why my parents thought children of the 80s had lost their minds. I still love my scrunchies and Ferris Bueller, but I do wonder what we were thinking with those bangs. Thankfully, Alpha Son is still too young to be embroiled in the generation conversation, so I have a few more years before he notices how lame I am. I can only imagine what kinds of things he will have to teach me when he realizes I’m obsolete. Meanwhile, I’m still on the phone trying to tell my mother, for the 100th time, how to cut, copy, and paste.... “No, you don’t TYPE c-o-n-t-r-o-l, you push the button with that word on it... never mind, I’ll be right there.” Isn’t the Silent Generation (1928-45) adorable? Happy Mother’s Day to all! XOXO

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food

Next-Level Memorial Day Fare O ur Best Tips HACK YOUR COOLER Your cooler can double as an insulated ‘warmer.’ Use it to keep things warm in

BEER CAN BURGERS INGREDIENTS

• 2 lb. ground beef

• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 1 beer can

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 8 slices bacon

• 4 burger buns

• 4 slices tomato

• 4 pieces lettuce

TOPPINGS

transit to a cookout.

• 2 c. cubed cheddar

• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

BONUS: You can cook a

• 1 bell pepper, sliced

• 1 onion, thinly sliced

party’s worth of corn on the cob in the cooler too. Place shucked cobs in the bottom, pour boiling water to cover, close the lid for about 30 minutes. Poke kernals with a fork for doneness. Plan to eat or remove the corn within 90 minutes of cook time.

• 4 slices provolone

DIRECTIONS Heat grill to medium. In a large bowl, season beef with Worcestershire and garlic powder. Roll into ½-pound balls, then place a beer can in the middle to shape into a bowl. Press beef up the sides of the beer can. Gently twist beer can to come out of burger bowl and season with salt and pepper. Wrap two slices bacon around the bowl. If stuffing with cheddar and jalapeño, top with cheese and jalapeños. If stuffing with peppers and onions, stuff with peppers and onions and top with a slice of provolone. Grill until burger is cooked, 30 minutes for medium. Serve on buns with lettuce and tomato.

LET PROTEIN REST Allow any grilled meat or fish to come to room temperature (up to two hours) before starting to eat. This ensures even cooking and the juiciest results.

“GREASE” THE GRILL WITH AN ONION Rub half an onion down the length of the grill to prevent meat from sticking.

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FAUX-TATO SALAD • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets • 6 slices bacon • 1/2 c. sour cream

• 1/4 c. mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp. lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

• Kosher salt

• Black pepper

• 1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar

• 1/4 c. finely chopped chives

DIRECTIONS In a large skillet, bring about ¼” water to boil. Add cauliflower, cover pan, and steam until tender; about 4 minutes. Drain and let cool. In large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain; chop. In large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Add cauliflower and toss gently. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in bacon, cheddar, and chives. Serve warm or at room temp.

BANANA SPLIT LASAGNA CRUST • 2 tbsp. sugar • Pinch kosher salt • 1/2 c. (one stick) melted butter • 2 c. crushed graham crackers LASAGNA • 1-1/2 (8oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened • 1/4 c. sugar • 2 (8-oz.) tubs Cool Whip

With hand mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy; fold in 1 tub Cool Whip. Spread mixture evenly onto crust. Top cream layer with even layers of banana, pineapple, and strawberries. Top with remaining Cool Whip and sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or up to overnight. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with sprinkles and maraschino cherries before serving.

• 3 bananas, thinly round-sliced • 1 (20-oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained • 1lb. strawberries, chopped fine • 1/2 c walnuts, toasted and chopped • Chocolate syrup, for drizzling • Rainbow sprinkles, for topping • Maraschino cherries, for topping

DIRECTIONS Grease 9”x13” baking dish. In medium bowl, stir graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Press into baking dish and refrigerate until set, 15 minutes.

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PARTING SHOT

by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com photos contributed by Michelle Hawley

Wooly Rides

housands of rodeo-goers came from all over to Liberty Hill’s Fair and Rodeo at Harvest Ranch Arena last month. Mutton Busting was the biggest event and it did not disappoint. Mutton Busting is the pint-size equivalent to competitive bull riding. Kids ages 7 and under cling to the backs of wild, wooly sheep and the hardiest rider—the one who stays on the longest—wins. Over the course of three days, 124 kids registered for a wooly ride and the show was beyond entertaining.

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Competition continued all three days and, each evening, a new winner was celebrated by all. One of those winners was seven year old Lilyanna Hawley, who took first place with a whopping 96 points. Lilyanna has been working to win a buckle for four years and, knowing this was her last year to compete, she was determined to win. “I’m going to get that buckle!” said the sweet little cowgirl and she did just that. Thank you Liberty Hill Fair and Rodeo for saddling up a good time!

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P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON LIBERTY HILL, TX

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