THE DREAM
All Things Outdoors
Omnia Outdoors is far more than just a pool builder. We truly cater to our customer’s comprehensive vision for their entire backyard experience. “Omnia” is the Latin word for ALL THINGS which is exactly what we provide – “ALL THINGS OUTDOORS”.
LANDSCAPES to schedule your free design consultation!
We are the ultimate design-build source for Swimming Pools and Spas to Landscaping and Irrigation, Outdoor Living, Cabanas and Pergolas, Outdoor Kitchens, Artificial Turf, Stone Masonry, Outdoor Lighting and even Patio Furniture and Accessories provided by Omnia Lifestyles.
Liberty Hill digest
Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC
PUBLISHER
Cathy Payne
Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing. She found her voice and fulfillment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Liberty Hill Digest, Cathy oversees multiple magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.
SENIOR WRITERS / COPY EDITORS
Ann Marie Kennon
Charlotte Kovalchuk
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda A. Thornton
Rachel Strickland
GRAPHICS & DESIGN
Sandra Evans
Zion Eaton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Patrick St. Cin
Christianna Bettis
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT • Dawn Goodall
IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne
CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel
ADVERTISING
Dawn Goodall • dawn@lhtxdigest.com Office: 512-598-6598 Cell: 512-677-3400
WHO WE ARE
In an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, the Liberty Hill Digest constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive: its people and their impact.
Since its inception in 2020, the Liberty Hill Digest has not only reported on more than 550 of the great stories and people in our city, we have also taken pride in actively contributing to its enrichment by mailing more than 400,000 magazines for free in the last four years.
Moreover, we enjoy sharing our commitment to the animal companions of our community through regular features dedicated to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, showcasing the importance of compassion. We are also pleased that our rotating nonprofit column further underscores this dedication by highlighting different support organizations each month like L4 Cares, creating a platform for advocacy and connection.
But we are also good at doing what we do — showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like Operation Liberty Hill, Liberty Hill ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to engage personally and participate in the missions of these community pillars. As well, timely articles featuring local events like Whimsy & Wonder, the City of Liberty Hill, and the involvement of our local businesses in the community go beyond surface-level news, offering insights into the cultural and humanitarian assets of Liberty Hill.
In every story, from first responders and veterans to the latest city events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In addition to these, each November, our Giving Thanks and Giving Back issue shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts, reminding us of the power of community support and the importance of gratitude.
Liberty Hill Digest isa FidelisPublishingGroup,LLCpublication andaproductof AdvocateNewsTXNewspaper. Copyright © 2024
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
In short, we believe the Liberty Hill Digest is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.
Protect the Stars in Liberty Hill!
Light pollution continues to grow at an alarming rate, harming our health, damaging the environment, and diminishing our views of the stars.
Liberty Hill has a plan to save the night, but we need YOUR help.
Help reduce light pollution at your home or business by following these 5 principles:
IS IT USEFUL?
All light should have a clear purpose. Use lights only when and where they are needed.
IS IT TARGETED?
Shield and aim your light so it only falls downward and where it is useful.
IS IT LOW-LEVEL?
Lights should be no brighter than necessary to save money and reduce glare.
IS IT CONTROLLED?
Lights should only be on when needed. Use timers and motion sensors.
IS IT WARM COLORED?
Warm-colored light causes less skyglow. Use amber-toned lights whenever possible.
ASK A PRO • FEATURED PROFESSIONALS
Meet our Pros - industry professionals, business owners, and subject matter experts from leading local companies who share their knowledge and expertise to bring readers practical advice, how-to tips, best practices, and current and emerging trends. To learn more about becoming a Featured Professional, contact dawn@lhtxdigest.com or 512.677.3400
BLINDED BY THE LIGHT & HUNTER DOUGLAS DEALER DEB LOHMAN
Owner of a lifestyle home décor boutique specializing in Hunter Douglas window coverings to include soft shades, blinds, and shutters. BlindedByTheLightDecor.com 512-636-9653
GEORGETOWN FENCE & DECK
We complete hundreds of projects annually and are dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor living spaces that provide years of enjoyment and add value to your home.
GeorgetownFenceAndDeck.com • 512-948-7539
HANSON INSURANCE • EMILY HANSON
Sixteen local brokers, specializing in Medicare, and ready to assist with all your health insurance needs. NPN #18816155 HansonFirst.com • 512-817-6906
MOORE LIBERTY BUILDINGS
CHAD & AMANDA MOORE
Thousands of structures built since 2015. MooreLibertyBuildings.com • 512-548-6474
ROYAL BLISS DAY SPA
Liberty Hill's hometown spa since 2019, specializing in skin care, beauty and massage, and offering an extensive line of natural skin care products so you can continue your routine at home.
RoyalBlissDaySpa.com • 512-548-6733
SCHULTZE AGENCY • JEFF & JAIME SCHULTZE
Family-owned and operated local insurance agency proudly serving this great community. We specialize in personalized consultations for home, auto, life, commercial and specialty insurance. Call, text or come by and see us. 512-549-8700 • SchultzeAgency.com
green dream lawn care
The Grass Is Always Greener on Our Side
Doug Durden’s inspiration to open a lawn care company was fueled by two things – unpredictable Texas weather that made it challenging for residents to maintain lush, green lawns, and a background in the turf business. “It doesn’t sound glamorous,” Doug says with a laugh, “but my grandfather and father were both golf course superintendents [responsible for operation and maintenance of the golf course], and my first-time job was when I was about 5 sweeping the floors for my grandpa and dad. My dad probably didn’t give me much choice.”
After helping maintain golf courses as a teenager alongside his dad, he decided to try a different field and oversaw building relocations before returning to his roots in the lawn care business. He has worn various hats over the last 30 years, including regional agronomist, lawn care operations manager, and golf course superintendent – all of which helped prepare him to start his own lawn care business. Doug and his friend Nick Keller teamed up to start Green Dream Lawn Care in 2021 and have since been helping clients maintain beautiful, green lawns across Central Texas.
COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES
More than just a lawn maintenance company, Georgetown-based Green Dream offers a wide range of specialized services tailored to meet the unique needs of Texas lawns – residential and commercial lawns as well as sports turfs. “We look at the region, weather patterns, and things like that,” Doug says. “It didn’t make sense to just put fertilizer down when people can’t water it. We have water restrictions every year, so we tailored our programs to fit the lawns in the area.”
One of the key elements of their approach is the incorporation of bio-stimulants and wetting agents into their lawn care offerings. These products help return moisture in the root zones, allowing the grass to absorb more water from rain and irrigation. Additionally, Green Dream uses custom-blended fertilizers designed for the local climate.
Beyond simply applying products, Green Dream takes a hands-on approach to lawn care. “We don’t just follow a set program,” Doug explains. “We do what’s best for the property at the time, taking weather changes into account.” This personalized approach ensures each lawn receives the specific care it needs, when it needs it. Green Dream also prides itself on its environmental consciousness, using Integrated Pest Management techniques to address issues only as they arise, rather than blanket-applying chemicals. This careful, targeted approach not only protects the environment but also ensures clients’ lawns receive the best possible care.
With an average of 12 years of experience, each Green Dream technician is passionate about delivering topnotch lawn care and ensuring every yard they tend to thrives in Texas’ challenging climate. “They take pride in it and have been doing it a long time. It’s not just a job to them,” Doug says.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Green Dream’s commitment to the Williamson County community goes beyond providing exceptional lawn care services.
“OUR ROOTS RUN DEEP HERE— MANY OF US, INCLUDING ME, GREW UP IN THIS AREA. I WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL IN LEANDER AND HAVE SPENT MOST OF MY LIFE IN THIS VIBRANT COMMUNITY,” DOUG SAYS.
Doug adds that Nick is based in Georgetown and most of Green Dream’s technicians are from the Central Texas area. “This personal connection fuels our dedication to giving back and supporting the people and organizations that make this place special.”
by Charlotte Kovalchuk •
WYesterday’s Gone
INSPIRING NEW BEGINNINGS
hen Loree Tamayo left her abusive partner in 2015, her father told her, “Honey, at least you’ve got a great job, money, and no kids to worry about.” “That stuck in my heart,” she says. “I thought, well this is hard. I can’t imagine it being harder. I can’t imagine not having money and having kids while doing this. It didn’t seem fair that just because I was financially sound and didn’t have children, I got to get out. What do other people do?”
FROM THAT MOMENT ON, LOREE FELT A DIVINE CALLING TO CREATE A PLACE FOR WOMEN IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS TO HEAL FROM THEIR TRAUMA AND BEGIN A JOURNEY TOWARDS A SUCCESSFUL, INDEPENDENT LIFE.
JOURNEY TO HEALING
After buying property between Georgetown and Liberty Hill and adding three tiny homes, Loree visited other area non-profits that serve women who have suffered abuse to see what gaps needed to be filled. Several organizations like Safe Alliance and Hope Alliance provide emergency housing for about three months for women fleeing their abusers, but many victims end up homeless or return to their abuser because they have nowhere else to go and cannot support themselves. “I love Safe Alliance and Hope Alliance and I want to finish their work,” Loree says.
In 2023, she started Yesterday’s Gone, a program designed to support women who have been abused
by offering transitional housing for one year while the women heal and prepare to live independently. Residents, known as GEMS, are asked to meet weekly with a life coach, work or attend school while saving 50 percent of their income, and join a support group or church group to get involved in a long-term community outside of Yesterday’s Gone. The non-profit’s first GEM was a woman who had suffered lifelong abuse and wasn’t able escape the cycle of abuse and poverty. At Yesterday’s Gone, she joined a support group and found a well-paying cleaning job at an assisted living facility. “She is doing so well and she’s determined to do better. It’s wonderful to watch this transformation,” her life coach told Loree.
The need for Yesterday’s Gone has been overwhelming, Loree says, pointing to the organization’s 41-person wait list. But she and her team ensure that any woman in need is able to get the help she needs, even if it means guiding them to other resources. Loree remembers one woman who called asking for help after finding out her husband’s abuse towards her had escalated to their child. By the end of the day, both victims had been removed from the situation and received help from a shelter and the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center. One month later, the woman reached out to Yesterday’s Gone, saying her abuser was now in jail. “Thank you so much for the help you gave me that day when I was so frantic.”
PAIN WITH A PURPOSE
In August, Loree is excited to publish a workbook she calls “a road map for healing from abusive trauma” that will be available for individuals and women’s group studies. She also hopes to increase the non-profit’s homes to nine homes, although her “God-sized dream is that there’s a Yesterday’s
LEND A HAND
Yesterday’s Gone welcomes donations as well as volunteers who would be willing to drive residents to their jobs or support groups, or even simply be a friend to them, as “it takes a village to heal people,” Loree says.
Scan the code to learn more about Yesterday’s Gone. yesterdaysgone.org
Gone in every state throughout the United States, maybe more than one. We envision a world where no woman is trapped in an abusive situation.”
Loree is grateful for the meaningful, though painful, journey that led her to Yesterday’s Gone. “It’s sort of like my pain has a purpose. If God asked if I wanted a do-over, I wouldn’t do it
differently because I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing today. God was with me the whole time and probably thinking, when she comes out on the other side, she’ll be a force to be reckoned with, my little redhead. I can’t wait to see how I’m going to use this girl. What intended to harm me is being used for good.”
DID YOU KNOW?
by Linda A. Thornton • images courtesy Christen Killebrew
MAKING WAVES
INSIDE THE WORLD OF PROFESSIONAL MERMAIDS
While being a mermaid sounds glamorous, it takes a lot more work than one might think, with much required physically, mentally, and emotionally to become certified.
A QUICK DIVE INTO MERMAIDS AND MERMAIDING
Stories of these beautiful mythical sea creatures have always been a part of maritime culture. According to legend, when a Syrian goddess named Atargatis dove into a lake to become a fish, the gods, entranced by her beauty, transformed her lower half into a fish while leaving her top half human.
The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen was first published in 1837 and Ariel, the main character, still charms audiences through Disney adaptations.
In the 1940s and 50s, Esther Williams, U.S. swimming champion turned movie star, captivated movie audiences with exciting water ballet and underwater segments.
Since 1947, the mermaids at Florida’s Weeki Wachee Springs have performed three shows a day, every day of the year and still wow crowds with their synchronized swimming as well as eating and drinking — all underwater!
With the rise of social media, freelance professional mermaids soon garnered attention. Elle Jimenez, also known as Mermaid Elle®, is a mermaid entertainer and
performer, with more than 4 million followers on social media, and a booking fee of $10,000 an hour.
Today, mermaid career opportunities include performers, entertainers, instructors, and professional competitors. The World Mermaid Championship, Miss Mermaid International and the Merlympics offer contestants monetary prizes and a chance to travel the world.
TAKING THE PLUNGE
Your mermaid adventure can simply be a professional photo shoot or basic lesson to experience what it’s like to wear a tail, but if you are serious about the sport – made official by USA Artistic Swimming and Aquamermaids – it’s important to be properly trained.
According to Christen Killebrew, local mermaid entertainer and instructor, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Mermaid™ courses are the most popular accreditation program, incorporating conservation education and a high level of safety standards into their training. Each level of instruction begins with independent online classes and progresses to hands-on water skill sessions. While wearing a monofin – a swim fin that attaches to both feet and is built into a mermaid tail – you will learn different types of kicks, turns, and glides as well as rescue skills.
If you progress to freediving and advanced classes, you will learn breath holding techniques in both confined and open water sessions, and practice static and dynamic ap-
“ANYBODY CAN BE A MERMAID. YOU JUST NEED A LITTLE MAGIC AND FAITH.” ~ CHRISTEN KILLEBREW, MERMAID
nea – the art of holding your breath while stationary and while swimming. Adjusting your weight belt for proper buoyancy and learning emergency hand signals are both crucial.
Once certified, Christen suggests the best way to practice safely is to join a mermaid pod — a group of mermaids who are like-minded in their training skills, safety ability, and attitude toward conservation.
Now that you can swim like a mermaid, you need to look like one, keeping in mind that mermaid tails can cost thousands of dollars. The global mermaid tail market is projected to grow from $151.4 million in 2023 to $240.2 million by 2029, demonstrating that beyond the enchantment of bringing aquatic mythology to life is a respected industry that continues to preserve its magic and mystery.
Christen Killebrew mysticmermaid.net/
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Hydration Hacks Beyond Water
Staying Refreshed This Summer
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, but let’s face it – drinking plain water all day can quickly become monotonous. Fortunately, staying hydrated doesn’t have to be a chore. There are plenty of creative ways to boost your fluid intake, whether through a tasty bowl of oatmeal, fruit-infused water, or a delicious smoothie.
INFUSE YOUR WATER
Infusing your water with fruits, herbs, and vegetables can add a delightful twist to your water. Try adding slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber – or their juice – as well as fresh mint leaves and basil.
EMBRACE HYDRATING FOODS
Oatmeal: This breakfast staple is nutritious as well as a great source of water. When cooked, oats absorb the milk or water they are prepared in, making them a great hydrating option to start your day. If hot oatmeal isn’t your thing, try overnight oats.
Classic Overnight Oats: In a jar, combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, stir again and add your favorite toppings (e.g., fresh fruit, nuts, or granola).
f Fruits and vegetables: Many fruits and veggies contain mostly water, including cucumbers and lettuce, which are over 90 percent water. Watermelon, strawberries, and cantaloupe are also high in water content, making them perfect for a refreshing snack. Incorporate them into salads, smoothies, or enjoy them on their own.
HEALTHY HABITS
EAT HYDRATING SNACKS
Yogurt and smoothies: Both yogurt and smoothies contain a high percentage of water and are versatile snack options.
Berry Banana Smoothie: Blend 1 banana, 1 cup mixed berries, 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, and 1/2 cup Greek yogurt.
HYDRATION REMINDERS
Sometimes, the best way to stay hydrated is through daily reminders. For a fun and interactive way to keep track of your fluid intake, download a hydration app such as Plant Nanny or Water Reminder that are designed to remind you to drink water throughout the day. In addition, consider buying a smart water bottle that tracks your intake and lights up to remind you to take a sip.
Green detox Smoothie: Blend 1 cup spinach leaves, 1/2 avocado, 1 banana, 1 cup coconut water or plain water, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and juice of 1/2 lemon.
Ice Pops: Make your own ice pops using fruit juice, coconut water, or blended fruits – a refreshing way to boost your fluid intake, especially during the summer months.
ENJOY HYDRATING BEVERAGES
Tea: Herbal teas are excellent for hydration, including caffeine-free options like chamomile, mint, and hibiscus, which can be enjoyed hot or cold. Even traditional teas like green and black tea count towards your fluid intake, though their caffeine content means they should be consumed in moderation.
Coconut water: This natural electrolyte-rich beverage is a great alternative to sugary sports drinks, and it’s perfect for replenishing fluids after a workout or on a hot day. Drink this in moderation as more than 32 ounces may have a laxative effect, which can also cause dehydration.
Pickle juice: Packed with electrolytes like sodium and potassium, pickle juice can help replenish fluids and prevent dehydration during hot summer days and workouts. If you’re not a fan of drinking straight pickle juice, try turning it into an ice pop using molds or an ice cube tray with Popsicle sticks for a tangy summer treat.
with Keller’s multi-award-winning design team. From stunning landscape transformations to meticulous tree care, we ensure your property remainsimmaculate year-round. Experience custom patio installations, elegant pergolas, captivating water features, and expert irrigation services. Let us craft your dream outdoor sanctuary today.
AROUND TOWN
1
Wetzel Park Splash Pad 821 Main Street, Liberty Hill
Splash pads, an increasingly popular feature in Williamson County’s parks, neighborhoods, and playgrounds, offer a water play experience that is fun and environmentally friendly. Unlike traditional swimming pools, splash pads conserve water through efficient design and operation. These water play areas use a closed-loop system, in which water is continuously recycled, treated, and recirculated. This system drastically reduces the amount of fresh water needed, as the same water is used multiple times.
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Lakewood Park 2040 Artesian Springs Crossing, Leander
Williamson County Regional Park
The Quarry Splash Pad 3005 County Road 175, Leander
Robin Bledsoe Park 601 S Bagdad Rd, Leander
Garey Park 6450 RM 2243, Georgetown
San Jose Park & Splash Pad 1707 San Jose St, Georgetown
Rabbit Hill Park 1109 Blue Ridge Drive, Georgetown
Downtown Georgetown Splash Pad 816 S. Main St., Georgetown
Additionally, splash pads are designed to minimize water waste. They often feature motion sensors that activate the water when users are present, ensuring water flows only when needed. This smart usage of water prevents the constant flow often seen in fountains or pools, leading to significant savings. Moreover, the water used in splash pads typically drains into an underground tank where it is filtered and sanitized before being pumped back out.
As well, the stepping surfaces and apparatuses at splash pads are typically made of non-porous materials, which also help conserve water by directing all used water back into the recycling system. By combining these innovative technologies, splash pads offer a sustainable and enjoyable water play option that aligns with modern water conservation efforts.
GEORGETOWN
FENCE & DECK
We complete hundreds of projects annually and are dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor living spaces that provide years of enjoyment and add value to your home.
GeorgetownFenceAndDeck.com • 512-948-7539
Decks 101
One of the best ways to take advantage of the generally good weather in Central Texas is by enhancing your outdoor living space. For many homes, the addition of a deck is a great investment that you will get to enjoy for as long as you own your home. Following are some things to keep in mind to help you plan the perfect deck project.
LUMBER PROS:
f Permits: Some neighborhoods with HOAs may have an approval or permitting process to consider. Most will involve an architectural review committee that may want to approve the color, placement of the deck on your lot, and the structural elements of the project to make sure it will be a safe and reasonable addition to the neighborhood. There may also be local codes or permitting that will cover many of the same issues.
f Framing materials: The support structure of a deck is called the “framing”. The framing for most decks is generally straightforward, but you will want to make sure the proper materials and installation are used to ensure your deck is stable and safe. The most widely used framing material is pressure treated pine, which provides stability, strength, and affordability. Newer options include aluminum, steel, and composite framing materials. These options vary in price, availability, and suitability to your project. Make sure you research these options before starting your project or hiring someone to build your deck.
f Deck boards: Now to the design – how do you want your deck to look and function? The two most common deck board categories are lumber and composite. Lumber deck board options include materials like cedar, hardwoods, or treated pine. Composite deck boards are generally made by combining wood pulp with plastic resin, e.g., PVC. There are also boards that consist entirely of PVC. There are many composite board manufacturers in the market so be sure to discuss options with your builder. Here are some basic pros and cons in the lumber vs. composite debate.
LUMBER CONS:
• Real wood look and texture
• Wood types vary in cost for every budget
• Typically, more affordable up front
COMPOSITE PROS:
• Lower lifetime costs
• Durable and long lasting
• Lower maintenance costs
• Resistance to water and UV damage
• Versatile color and texture choices
• Must be maintained for safety and aesthetics
• Less durable than composite boards
• More expensive in the long term
• Board variations and length can complicate installation
COMPOSITE CONS:
• Higher upfront costs
• Uncapped boards are less durable than capped board
• Deck boards may flex more than lumber
A new deck is an investment in your property and your lifestyle. While some homeowners do have the skills to build their own deck, please consider a consultation with a deck professional to ensure your deck is safe and built to last through many years of enjoyment.
WITH JEFF ANDERSON PRECINCT 2 CONSTABLE QUESTIONS
THE BEST LEADERS SUPPORT THEIR
TEAMS by communicating, setting goals, providing feedback and appreciating the hard work of team members. They lead with honesty, empathy and a strong commitment to the team’s success. Successful leaders create a welcoming and encouraging work environment that fosters a sense of appreciation, empowerment and motivation among team members.
4
ONE
I FEEL MOST ALIVE WHEN
I am fully engaged in activities that challenge me and ignite my passion. Whether I'm tackling issues, innovating, or immersing myself in the wonders of nature, these experiences always leave me feeling recharged and inspired.
I HANDLE NEGATIVITY
BY acknowledging my feelings, identifying the root cause of those emotions, and seeking ways to address them. This might involve confiding in a trusted friend or mentor, engaging in activities, or practicing mindfulness and self-care. Maintaining a positive outlook and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on the negative aspects are key.
2
I DEFINE A GREAT ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AS ONE THAT
emphasizes communication, offers guidance and objectives, gives constructive feedback, and recognizes and values the contributions made by team members. It also promotes integrity, empathy and a dedication to the teams’ achievements while cultivating an inclusive workplace where employees feel respected, empowered and driven to excel.
ONE THING I TRY TO DO EVERY DAY
is acknowledge and appreciate the hard work of team members. It's also crucial to provide communication and support to ensure everyone’s success.
3
TO AVOID DISTRACTIONS
I establish objectives and prioritize my tasks. Working in a setting and utilizing productivity tools help me maintain concentration.
6
ONE THING THAT IS DIFFICULT FOR ME BUT I ENJOY
FIVE
7
is public speaking. Despite the nervousness that arises when addressing an audience, I take delight in the opportunity to convey my thoughts and engage with others through communication. Conquering this obstacle has contributed significantly to my career development.
photo courtesy Jeff Anderson
Constable Jeff Anderson: A Lifetime Devoted to Public Service
Constable Jeff Anderson's unwavering dedication to service is deeply rooted in his family's history of service and community involvement. With three decades of experience at the Travis County Sheriff's Department and over 27 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Constable Anderson has made it his life's mission to protect and serve those around him. Having lived in Williamson County for over 37 years, Constable Anderson is deeply connected to the community. Despite his demanding schedule, he always makes time for his wife, Janet, their four children, and eleven grandchildren. As he continues to fulfill his duties, Constable Anderson remains steadfast in his work and is committed to family values, such as dedication and selflessness.
Constable Anderson is currently serving his first term as constable. He has a BA in criminal justice from American Military University and graduated from the United States Air Force Senior Leadership Academy, Sam Houston State Leadership Command College – Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, and the FBI—Law Enforcement Executive Leadership Association.
MY BEST ADVICE FOR HANDLING CHANGE IS
to view it as an opportunity for development and learning. Remaining adaptable, fostering optimism, and being receptive to possibilities are crucial during times of change. Seeking help and encouragement, from friends, family or colleagues can also make going through changes feel more doable. Moreover, setting goals while going through transitions can help maintain a feeling of control and progress.
IN TEN YEARS I HOPE TO...
In 10 years, I’ll be 70 years old. My aspirations include continuing to follow my interests and hobbies whether it's traveling, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in activities. I also aim to prioritize my health and well-being and keep expanding professionally.
NINE
I DEFINE SUCCESS AS
leading a fulfilling and harmonious life while reaching career objectives. It involves finding joy and satisfaction while making an impact on others’ lives and continuously learning and evolving. Success also includes nurturing relationships and contributing to the happiness of those around me.
H2O-M-G FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND
Water is not just an Earthly phenomenon. It's abundant in space, found in comets, asteroids, and even on moons like Europa (Jupiter) and Enceladus (Saturn), where it exists as ice and possibly liquid beneath their icy crusts.
At extremely high pressures, water can exist in a state called "hot ice" or ice VII, which is denser than liquid water and forms a solid at temperatures that would normally melt it.
A single dripping faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. Fixing leaks can significantly reduce water wastage and save money on utility bills.
Texas is home to more than 7,000 man-made reservoirs, making it the state with the most reservoirs in the U.S. The largest, Lake Texoma, spans the Texas-Oklahoma border and covers about 89,000 acres.
Water can remain liquid below its freezing point in a state called supercooling. If supercooled water is disturbed, it can instantly freeze.
The concept of "virtual water" refers to the hidden water used to produce goods and services. For example, producing one pound of beef requires about 1,800 gallons of water, while a single pair of jeans takes about 2,900 gallons.
The average American has a water footprint of about 2,000 gallons per day, which includes direct water use and the virtual water embedded in food, products, and services.
Texas has a unique system of water rights known as the "prior appropriation" doctrine, where the first person to use water for a beneficial purpose has the right to continue using that amount of water. This system is crucial for managing the state's scarce water resources.
An inspired MIT student created "smart ice cubes" that can track how much alcohol you drink. The cubes change from green to yellow to red to alert you to how much you've consumed. If you continue to drink in the red, a text will be sent to a designated friend to ask him or her to step in.
Earth has a closed water cycle, so it just keeps recycling. That means every sip of water could have been part of an ancient swamp or even an ice age glacier. This means the water molecules you drink today may have passed through a dinosaur.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
by Linda A. Thornton
Buc-ee's Dams the Bridge Between Convenience Store and Amusement Park
The year was 2012 and excitement was building. Cintas, a corporate supplier to the service industry, was about to announce the winner of its annual nationwide restroom contest. Gathering nominations from the public, the judges would then select 10 finalists based on cleanliness, visual appeal, innovation, functionality, and unique design. Final voting would be open to the public, allowing them to choose which upscale venue would take the throne for Cintas’ America’s Best Restroom Award.
That year, the Academy Award of Lavatories went to Buc-ee's in New
Braunfels, Texas — at the time the world’s largest convenience store. Set on 18 acres, the 68,000-squarefoot store that featured 60 fuel pumps and 1,000 parking spaces emerged into the national spotlight.
A SHREWD BUSINESS PLAN
In 1982, Arch “Beaver” Aplin had just graduated from Texas A&M and started working at his father’s construction company. He decided to open a standard 3,000-square-foot convenience store in his hometown of Lake Jackson. With no actual plan in mind, it was when he met Don Wasek, another nearby convenience
store owner, that the magic began.
They decided to team up, opened their first store together in Clute, Texas and began adding more across the state. The name Buc-ee's was a combination of Beaver’s childhood nickname, his dog’s name, Buck, and the then Ipana toothpaste mascot, Bucky the beaver.
The term “travel center” seemed like a better name for the expanded version of the store that Beaver and Don opened together in Luling, Texas in 2003. The 35,000-square-foot store sparked the concept for their new enterprise:
f “Clean, friendly, and in stock” was their new motto.
f New locations would be modeled after truck stops, imitating their size and volume. Ironically, commercial trucks would not be allowed at their gas pumps.
f Their target audience would be the affluent market segment.
f Private label merchandise would allow for bigger profit margins.
f Discounted products would not be offered.
f Bargain-priced real estate and low interest rates at the time would finance expansion.
f Customers would be lured off the road with the combination of gas pumps and fabulous restrooms.
The owners of the privately owned chain tend to stay away from the spotlight. Beaver and Don each own 50 percent of Buc-ee's Holdings, Inc., and have clearly defined roles. Beaver, the more animated of the two, focuses on construction, expansion, and marketing while Don, who shuns publicity, manages operations.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
A CULT FOLLOWING
The metal sculpture of Buc-ee outside every store stops most in their tracks for a photo op. In keeping with the slogan that “everything is bigger in Texas,” the super-size store overwhelms many with the sheer breadth and scope of the product selection, with most featuring Buc-ee’s smiling face. Baked goods, tacos, fresh sandwiches, and self-serve drink and coffee stations surround the fresh brisket, turkey and pulled pork continuously being sliced at the big horseshoe-shaped “Texas Roundup” barbecue stand in the store’s center.
Every few years, Buc-ee's keeps the folks at the Guinness Book of World Records on their toes:
f In 2012, the New Braunfels location was named the largest convenience store in the world at 68,000 square feet.
f Then in 2023, Sevierville, Tennessee took the title with their new 74,707-squarefoot Buc-ee's.
f Now, as of this past June, the largest Buc-ee's in the world resides in Luling, Texas at 75,000 square feet with 120 gas pumps.
The restrooms are a particular source of pride to Beaver, who designed them himself, with walls rather than stalls, metal doors, and a 24-hour, year-round cleaning staff. He keeps on top of new innovations and is always working to perfect the original design.
In 2018, the company began expanding outside of Texas. Since then, Buc-ee’s locations total almost 50 and can be found in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
At the Luling Texas opening, one customer waited patiently in line all morning to be able to say he had visited every one of the Bucee's locations. When interviewed, he noted that he was traveling one day, stopped for gas and a bathroom break, and was hooked from then on. Another customer mentioned the downside of living in the same town as a Buc-ee’s. He said he was sure he and his family would be welcoming more house guests who would invite themselves to visit so they could tour the famous addition to their town. For more information about Buc-ee’s, go to: buc-ees.com
by Rachel Strickland
Chill Out: Cool Spots to Beat the Summer Heat in Central Texas
While pools and lakes are popular spots for escaping the Texas heat, numerous other unique outdoor destinations await within a short drive of Liberty Hill. From stunning waterfalls in Austin to the crystal-clear waters of Wimberley’s Blue Hole, Central Texas is home to a variety of scenic spots that offer refreshing fun for the entire family.
t GORMAN FALLS
Nestled deep within Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls is a stunning 70-foot spring-fed waterfall that rewards those willing to embark on a rigorous 1.5-mile hike over rocky terrain. The journey along the Gorman Falls Trail is dotted with sights such as prickly pear cacti, Ashe junipers, and other native Texas vegetation. The breathtaking falls are accessible year round, with the park open daily 6am - 10pm. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under.
1201 Colorado Park Road, Bend, 1.5-hour drive from Liberty Hill.
WIMBERLEY BLUE
Wimberley’s Blue Hole features stunningly clear, tranquil waters fed by Cypress Creek, making it an idyllic place to cool off on a scorching summer day. Located in Blue Hole Regional Park, the swimming hole is surrounded by hiking trails, bike paths, and picturesque picnic spots. Blue Hole's swimming season runs from May 1 through Labor Day, with weekends in September. Reservations are required to access the swimming area. 333 Blue Hole Ln, Wimberley, 1.5-hour drive from Liberty Hill.
TWIN FALLS & SCULPTURE FALLS
WORTH THE DRIVE
t KRAUSE SPRINGS
Krause Springs, situated in Spicewood, is a 115-acre swimming and camping site privately owned by the Krause family for over 50 years. Recognized for its historical significance, Krause Springs is listed on the National Registry of Historical Sites and features more than 30 springs, several of which feed both natural and man-made pools. Admission is $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 4-11, and free for children under 4.
424 County Road 404, Spicewood, 1.5-hour drive from Liberty Hill.
For an adventurous day, take the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail to discover Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. This 3-mile trail follows Barton Creek and features two stunning waterfalls. The trailhead, located off MoPac Expressway, offers free parking. Twin Falls is about a half-mile from the trailhead, though the path is rocky, while Sculpture Falls lies further north along the trail. 3918 S. MoPac Expy, Austin, 40-minute drive from Liberty Hill.
NOLAN CREEK
Belton’s Nolan Creek is an ideal destination for swimming, kayaking, or tubing without straying far from civilization. Originating from springs in the Fort Cavazos area, the creek features clear waters and plenty of ducks to feed, as well as several limestone drops for easy access and an area for tubes and kayaks near the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge. The scenic 1.2-mile hike and bike trail winds through Harris Community Park, Yettie Polk Park, and Liberty Park, offering multiple access points. One popular spot is near The Gin, a historic area with restaurants, shops, and ample parking.
219 S. East St., Belton, 30-minute drive from Liberty Hill.
Irecently read about the Museum of Failure – a traveling exhibit that showcases the world’s most fascinating flops. The description reads: "Innovation needs failure. All progress, not only technological progress, is built on learning from past failures and mistakes. The museum aims to stimulate productive discussion about failure and inspire us to take meaningful risks."
I’m totally on board with this idea. Is there anything more American than using failure to come back even stronger? How many test rockets blew up before Alan Shepherd left Earth gravity? Eight years later, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon.
It got me thinking: What if we all curated our own Museum of Failure? I can imagine throwing a party for my faceplants and belly flops, right alongside my triumphs. Although I do continue to be grateful that my 20s and 30s did not include YouTube and TikTok (so that night I spent $60 on fancy drinks, all of which wound up in a dumpster, is not memorialized forever on the Internet — so yeah, epic fail).
Maybe if we start viewing our spectacular faceplants as part of our victory laps, we might just summon the courage to stare down our fears and take a few audacious leaps we’ve been dreaming of. Embrace the flop, dance with the disaster, and remember that every glorious misstep is just another chapter in our life success saga.
Sadly, in the publishing business, mistakes are not simply made, they are also replicated in hundreds or thousands of printed things that go out
Belle’s Hall of Failures
into the world. My whole list wouldn’t fit here but here are just a few tributes to my thought-it-was-a-good-idea-at -the-time moments.
Trying to save the company money on a massive print job by choosing an economy grade paper stock. The printer messed up the perfect-bound page order and ran out of my special paper stock to fix it. So, 75,000 copies of a federal employee annual digest had a page 7 and a page 7a and an incorrect table of contents.
Unfortunate typo on the cover of [County Name] Public Schools Capital Improvement Plan, which went out to 14,000 school employees without the L in public.
My very first promotion of a website to my association’s member companies wasted a lot of company money. But, back in 1993, did you realize how picky the Internet was and that www.website/com would get you nowhere? So, 4,000 mailing labels went in the trash.
That time I wrote an epic investigative series, thinking all the while it would put me on the map and prove I had what it took to be a professional writer. What I learned was maybe I might have asked whether the story *should* have been written rather than how viral it was going to be. The lesson there was no matter how vicious you think the Internet is, when you are the one in the cross-hairs, it is so much worse. In other words, make darn sure your 15 minutes of fame are worth the vitriol you will most assuredly receive.
In my defense, I’ve been in publications for almost 35 years and probably written a few million words by now — many before spell-check and A.I. were a thing. But reflecting on it, each of these flops has shaped what I do today. I am hysterical about grammar and proofreading, and I get a happy dopamine rush when I catch errors in my own, or anyone’s documents, or billboards… or junk mail… or anything. And on those few occasions when I get a cheerful note from someone who liked what I had to say, or how I said it, I still do a little happy dance to have received a slice of approval from a stranger.
I also recognize the stress of a perfection-based industry and remember to live my professional life like Jean Giraudoux, who said, "Only the mediocre are always at their best." Plus, while I agree A.I. is a great tool, I still edit the helvetica out of it. At my keyboard, I paraphrase Apollo Creed in “Rocky II”… A.I. writes great, but I’m a great writer.
Even with the many headslaps, I’m still writing and producing things and remembering my 12th grade English teacher's words: “Writers become great by weight.” Back in the 20th century, the output was paper, which had mass and volume. I suppose today we become better writers by the byte, but it doesn’t sound as sexy.
So be like Belle — and the U.S.A. — and go celebrate your losses as a necessary precursor to your future wins. Maybe you’ll get to have your very own page in a magazine someday too.
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