LH Independent 11-5-20 by The Liberty Hill Independent

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2020

Volume 33, Issue 50

www.LHIndependent.com

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November 5, 2020 | 50 Cents

Branigan topples Hall City sees record turnout in Mayor’s race

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor Only six candidates since the incorporation of Liberty Hill had surpassed the 100 vote mark in an election, but Tuesday, Mayor Rick Hall and challenger Liz Branigan each shattered that mark. Despite the heavy voter turnout, it was Branigan’s record haul – ﬁnishing with 609 – that carried her into the Mayor’s seat. Hall ﬁnished with 506. The previous high mark was 125 for Mike Crane in 2011. “It was an exciting night,” Branigan said of her victory. “The last Mayor’s race there were only 120-something votes and the previous mayor (Connie Fuller) lost by that tiny margin. This race had 10 times the turnout and people went to vote because they wanted change. I’m very impressed with the level of turnout and I’m going

ELECTION U.S. President Donald Trump (R) Joe Biden (D)

State 5.8m 5.1m

Wilco 138,649 142, 457

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R) MJ Hegar (D)

State 5.8m 4.7m

Wilco 141,319 132,575

Mayor-elect Liz Branigan (center) watched election returns with close friends and family at Jardin Corona Tuesday night. Branigan carried the race against incumbent Rick Hall by a vote of 609-506 -- a record turnout in a Liberty Hill city race.

U.S. Rep. (District 31) John Carter (R) Donna Imam (D)

State 210,768 174,394

Wilco 144,699 130,069

to claim a mandate for positive change in the City.” Branigan lost her reelection bid to the Council in May 2019 to Gram Lankford 72-44, and Hall won the 2018 Mayor’s race over Connie Fuller 72-57. The high levels of support in this election were not lost on Branigan. “I want to thank voters for their conﬁdence,” she said. “I

State Board of Edu. (District 10) Tom Maynard (R) Marsha Burnett-Webster (D)

Total 438, 496 394,977

Wilco 137,337 125,873

State Rep. (Dist. 20) Terry Wilson (R) Jessica Tiedt (D)

Total 78, 405 31,380

Wilco 51,743 24,119

County Attorney Dee Hobbs (R) Stan Springerley (D)

Total 144,140 125,273

County Sheriff Robert Chody (R) Mike Gleason (D)

Total 119,540 152, 494

Pct. 2 Constable Jeff Anderson (R) Robert Tijerina (D)

Total 38, 407 34,886

LHISD Place 1 Terry Smith Clint Stephenson

Total 4,619 4,263

LHISD Place 2 Antonio Canas Dana Munguia Kendall Carter

Total 1,939 1,954 4,838

Liberty Hill Mayor Rick Hall Elizabeth Branigan

Total 506 609

Liberty Hill Prop. A For Against

Total 735 441

ANTHONY FLORES PHOTO

want to assure them I am going to work toward keeping Liberty Hill the best hometown it can possibly be and I will be citizen-focused.” She also said moving forward that more community involvement would be needed to make the changes she envisions. “The most important thing is I can’t do it alone,” Branigan said. “I’m going to need help

from the citizenry. We’re going to need at least three candidates for the new City Council for May and we’re going to need people here interested in the boards and commissions.” In his term, Hall spearheaded an effort that resulted in the expansion of the Mayor’s role and supervisory authority over

See MAYOR, Page 14

Gridiron hero returns home a Veteran

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Gio Magallon is best known around Liberty Hill for kicking a game-winning ﬁeld goal in the Panthers’ Class 4A state championship game victory in 2006, but what he did upon leaving town after graduation is more noteworthy. Since his departure, Magallon has served a 13-year career in the U.S. Navy and is returning home to be the guest speaker at the Liberty Hill Veterans Day event at Veterans Memorial Park at 10 a.m. on Nov. 11. According to Magallon, the opportunity to return with his current status is something he never imagined. “It’s humbling to be able to honor those who have served this great nation,” said Magallon. “When I left home

as an 18-year-old kid, I never imagined coming back to speak at such an event.” Over the course of his career, Magallon has served in many different roles in Naval Special Warfare, deploying to Iraq as a heavy weapons gunner and radio communicator during Operation Iraqi Freedom and has since risen to the rank of Chief Petty Ofﬁcer. Magallon has been back to Liberty Hill on occasion during the course of his military career, so he’s already witnessed ﬁrsthand how much the town has changed, he said. “When I do get the opportunity to visit, I drive through town to see the changes,” he said. “Liberty Hill has come a long way in the last 13 years and

See VETERANS, Page 12

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Gio Magallon (#7), who kicked the game-winning ﬁeld goal in the Panthers’ Class 4A state championship victory in 2006 will return home to be guest speaker at the Liberty Hill Veterans Day event. (Courtesy Photo)

★ ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

LHHS Band ﬁnds its ‘Silver Lining’

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer As the sun set on a chilly October night, the stands of Panther Stadium ﬁlled with proud parents, eager to support their kids. It was different from the typical fall Friday night in Texas, but one to never forget. On the ﬁeld, the Liberty Hill High School marching band readied for its only live performance of the school year. Adjusting from the usual eight-minute halftime performance, the band and director John Perrin created a new four-minute medley: ‘You Are ©2020 The Liberty Hill Independent

My Sunshine’, ‘Ode to Joy’, and ‘Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring’ entitled ‘Silver Linings’. “I am an optimist. I think you can ﬁnd something positive in every instance,” said Perrin. “It may not be clear at the moment, but over time maybe something will become clear. I don’t know the plan for everything but I do believe there’s a reason for everything. That’s why we chose Silver Linings.” With almost all aspects of life, COVID is the root of new rules and precautions Perrin and his students are having to adjust to. “It’s been challenging. We want to do everything safely because we take the kids’ safety very seriously. We try and follow all of the protocols, and we’ve done more than what is

ANTHONY FLORES PHOTO

Unable to perform during halftime at Panther football games due to health precautions during the pandemic, the Liberty Hill High See BAND, Page 12 School marching band performed for families and friends Oct. 30. It was their only live performance of the school year.

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Thursday, November 5, 2020

OBITUARIES

Marsha Oliver

On Sunday evening, October 25, 2020, while at home and with family, Marsha Antionette Perry Oliver was received into the arms of our Lord. Marsha was born in Panama, Central America, and traveled the world with her military family. She was a librarian in the US Air Force during Vietnam. She married James Richard Oliver in May of 1972 and with him also traveled the world as he was in the US Army. She graduated from Alameda College with a degree in accounting. Marsha retired from the Employees Retirement System of Texas in 2012.

Marsha loved to read, enjoyed traveling, and most of all loved friendship and life. She cherished her new cabin that she said reminded her of Noah’s Ark. Marsha was preceded in death by her mother, Jessie Perry; her father, George Perry; and her younger brother, Alan Perry. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, James Richard Oliver; her daughter, Mercedes Gilbert and her husband, Jeff; her son, James Ryan Oliver and his wife, Barbie; two grandsons, Cohen and Corbin Gilbert; her granddaughter,

Catalina; her sister, Carolyn McCorkle, and brother George Perry. She has a multitude of family in Panama, Arkansas, and North Carolina along with close friends at ERS and Kids R Kids. A funeral service will be held at 10 am on November 7, 2020 at St. Helens Catholic Church in Georgetown, Texas. All funeral arrangements have been made by Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home in Burnet, Texas. The Oliver Family would like to express our sincere appreciation for all the prayers that have taken place over the past

Patty Durden, born April 9, 1965, in Galveston TX, passed away suddenly at her home September 22, 2020. Preceded in death by her parents, Donald Wayne and Marion Durden and her beloved brother Donald Jr., and survived by her sister Karen Bowman of Montgomery, TX. Proud to be a born and bred Texan. Painter by trade, cook by choice and lover of music

and all things outdoors. Patty’s skills were very versatile. She excelled in making friends out of strangers. Trying to teach by example that life could be simple. She lived life her way and was aware of her many blessings and was grateful for them. There will be a celebration of her life Saturday, November 14 at 11:30 at Hoover’s Valley Cemetery, 7235 Park Rd 4W, Burnet, TX 78654. Wearing of

masks and social distancing is appreciated. In lieu of ﬂowers, her friends ask that a memorial in Patty’s name be given to Hoover’s Valley Cemetery or a charity of your choice. Like the view you loved on the water of a beautiful sunset, your friendship, kindness, and smiles our dear Patty, we will never forget.

year of Marsha’s battle with all of her illnesses. Condolences to the family may be offered to www.clementswilcoxburnet.com

Patty Durden

Shin Oak Ridge Bulletin Board Send news to: News@LHIndependent.com

Liberty Hill Garden Club meets Nov. 10

The Liberty Hill Garden Club meets Nov. 10th. The program is “Vines to Grow in Central Texas”. William Glenn, Senior Manager of the Barton Springs Nursery, will present at a Zoom-based meeting. For zoom information, write to gardenclublibertyhill@gmail. com.

WCCHD offers free drive-thru ﬂu shots

Same day appointments available Monday - Friday 8am-5pm

WWW.LIBERTYHILLPEDIATRICS.COM | 12661 SH 29 | LIBERTY HILL

Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD) is making it easier to protect yourself from the ﬂu this season by offering free drive-thru

flu shots. With COVID-19 and the upcoming flu season overlapping, it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated against influenza this year. The flu can be a serious health concern for older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with ongoing illnesses like diabetes, or kidney, heart, or lung disease. People can get sick with COVID-19 and the flu at the same time, which may increase the risk they will need hospitalization. As many as 45 million Americans get sick from the flu each season. “Getting a flu shot is one safe and simple thing we all can do to ease our minds during the

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pandemic to protect ourselves, our families and our communities,” says Dr. Lori Palazzo, Medical Director and Health Authority for the Williamson County and Cities Health District. “Getting vaccinated this year means having one less thing to worry about.” Inﬂuenza and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms, such as congestion, cough and fever. People who have these symptoms when ﬂu season arrives should be tested for COVID-19 to help ensure a correct medical diagnosis. There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19. The best way to prevent the spread of

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COVID-19 is to practice physical distancing, wear face coverings when around people who don’t live with you, wash your hands regularly and stay home if you’re sick. These measures also help reduce the spread of the ﬂu as well. WCCHD will be offering free drive-thru ﬂu shots Tuesdays and Thursdays to any Williamson County resident aged six months and older starting Nov. 3, while supplies last. Participants must pre-register online at www.wcchd.org before arriving at the drive-thru site located at 211 Commerce Blvd. in Round Rock.

County offers free hazardous waste collection

GEORGETOWN – Williamson County and Waste Management of Texas, Inc. are hosting a free household hazardous waste collection event on Saturday, Nov.14, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Williamson County Expo Center, 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, Taylor. Residents must wear a face covering, stay in your vehicle with the windows up, and let volunteers unload your car. Only go through the line once. Bring products in original containers if possible and do not mix or consolidate products. Make sure containers are sealed properly. For more information, 512759-8881.

Please Call 800-274-4912 or Email info@afw.com

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OPINION

EDITORIAL: ‘We won’ means we all lose The “we won” mentality in American politics has become toxic, replacing our sense of right and wrong with the politics of brute force and making it impossible for people to come together either before or after an election. Regardless of whether your candidate won – be it the presidency or the local mayor’s race – we should demand a premium be placed on common sense decisions, made clearly in the best interest of the people being represented. Look at the results. Few candidates at any level earned six of 10 votes. Are we truly going to approach governing by saying “too bad” to four of every 10 people? Political division is at an all-time high and our mentality about one another is one of suspicious enemies, rather than neighbors, and that makes it easier to discount the “losers” when the election dust settles. In Liberty Hill that’s nearly half the population. In America it is nearly 70 million people. If our elected ofﬁcials focus on the right action for the community, striking a balance of interests versus pointing to the “I’m in charge” button on their chest, we will all be better off and not so mired in the fear and skepticism of the other side winning an election. Looking up and down the ballot in Williamson County, a fair number of candidates won on both sides of the fence, and that

means it is in all our best interests to strike compromise and recognize we can be on the losing end as easily as on the winning side. All or nothing is no way to live our political lives. Voters in the County can be proud of the new foundation established that should remind elected officials that every person does matter and should be considered. A 75 percent voter turnout – higher than ever before – with 88,000 more ballots cast, says everyone has a stake in local governance. Voters have become engaged, either deeply as candidates or campaign workers, or by the simple act of voting in numbers never seen before. That engagement and energy can’t die, it can’t dwindle. To keep the pressure on our elected officials that involvement must continue to grow. When we don’t speak, our elected officials don’t respond. Our representative democracy has always been referred to as “democracy” but perhaps we should recalibrate the approach and focus more on the representative part. The new Sheriff, the new Mayor, the same US Rep and the same County Attorney still represent the same residents as someone did only days ago. Surely their importance as citizens of Williamson County has not become more or less suddenly over an election.

VIEWPOINT

Can we have our cake and eat it, too?

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor In line in a mess hall on F o r t Leonard Wo o d , Missouri, I was a front-row witness to one of the most comical psychological military operations of all time. Shufﬂing rigidly, quietly through the line, doing everything we could not to draw the attention of any of the circling Drill Sergeants, the private in line directly behind me broke the silence with the question heard ‘round the mess hall. “Drill Sergeant,” he started, as the instructor closed in, hovering over his shoulder. “Since I got the top score on the PT test in the platoon today, can I have a piece of cake?” We all cried out, “no, don’t do it”, but only on the inside. You see, all the cake and pie lining the top shelf of the buffet line was always there, but always off limits. Even four weeks in, no one had even considered challenging that rule. “Yeah, you should be proud,” the voice calmly said. “Go ahead and pick yourself out a piece.” The private grabbed what looked like carrot cake with white icing, smiled and made room for it on his tray as we continued moving toward the end of the line. All seemed well. All was

Poppin’ corn and talkin’ politics

Our friends Darryl and Bridgette Lee of Poppin’ Around Texas helped us celebrate Election Day Tuesday by poppin’ kettle corn behind the newspaper office. The Independent gave away popcorn to those who stopped by and said they voted. It was a fun way to visit with friends and neighbors, many of whom shared their political views with us as they enjoyed the best kettle corn in Texas. One of the newest members of our staff asked how I knew Darryl, and it reminded me of the days of Radio Free Liberty Hill -- the news website I started in 2009. Darryl, who had a business at that time called Circleback Charters, was my very first advertiser on the website. That website, which no longer exists, competed at that time with two Liberty Hill newspapers -- The Independent and The Leader. While lots have changed in those 11 years, including the growth of our business to purchase both of those newspapers and moving our staff from a small office on SH 29 to downtown last December, our commitment to community and journalistic integrity has not. It’s accurate, fair and balanced reporting that has guided us through the years whether in print or online. Thank you, Darryl and Bridgette, for your long friend-

quiet. That meant everything was about to go very wrong. As we sat down, out of the corner of my eye I could see the drill sergeant speaking to another – specifically the one who said no dessert, ever – and pointing in our direction. I put my head down and began shoveling. Within seconds they descended on the proud private, one on either side as they screamed in his face. After what seemed like hours, one excused himself, and one sat down next to the private. Speaking calmly, he reiterated the rules. “You know there is no dessert in my mess hall,” he said. “But you are not about to waste that fine piece of cake.” Then he pulled out a napkin, handed it to the private and said, “No, you’re going to keep it so you can enjoy it later. Wrap it up, and put it in your pocket.” Then as he got up to walk away, he finished with, “And if I ever ask for that cake, you better have it with you.” Over the next month the Sergeant would ask to see the cake, each time it was unwrapped it was a little more crumbly and dry, but the lesson had been learned. On graduation day, he was instructed to show it to his parents and the Sergeant told him he could now eat the cake he wanted so badly. Everyone laughed and he was finally relieved to throw it away. Members of the U.S. Armed Services do crazy things for all of us. Some are comical,

ship and confidence in our publications through the years. We so enjoyed the popcorn and the fellowship. Remembering Troy Election Day in Liberty Hill hasn’t been the same since my good friend Troy Joseph passed away years ago. His granddaughter and my friend, Kate Ludlow, worked at The Independent years ago. She shared a photo on social media on Election Day Eve that was in the newspaper after he was awarded the Key to the City in 2011. Remembering her first voting experience and hoping to encourage others to vote, Kate posted this on Monday: “20 years ago, an 18-yo Kate woke up super early to head down to the LH Annex Building to vote for my first time with Papa Troy and my Mama. My grandpa saw one major problem here. ‘There’s not enough love in the world. It’s hurrah for me, and to hell with you.’ There wasn’t a Democratic stump speak, meeting, election day counting, that they didn’t drag my little kid ass out to, showing their fired enthusiasm for the civic process along the way. Though he famously used to say ‘A poor man voting for a Republican is like a chicken voting for Colonel Sanders,’ he respected all types, unless you crossed his family. My grandpa stood for straight talk, not hypocrisy. For kind-

jumping through hoops to make it through basic training. Others are more personal like being away from family for extended periods of time. Still others are more costly as they sometimes willingly sacrifice their own lives for others. What they do and sacrifice for us all should never be underestimated or forgotten. Each person who has taken that oath has earned our respect and gratitude. They allow all of us to have our cake and eat it, too, even if they have gone without. The United States has been at war for nearly two decades since Sept. 11, 2001. More than 2.7 million service members have been deployed, and 225,000 army personnel have been deployed three or more times in that span. The Veterans Administration estimates that 11-20 percent of all veterans who have served in overseas deployments since Sept. 11 have dealt with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in a given year. Between 2008 and 2016, there were more than 6,000 veteran suicides each year. Many veterans come back with life-altering physical injuries due to the loss of a limb or other trauma. The Pentagon estimates more than 32,000 service members were injured in Iraq alone through 2016. Life can’t be easy when someone returns from war. How we fight and how we deploy troops – and bring them home – has changed over the last 50 years. Triumphant re-

turns are muted, and suddenly being back at home is not a simple switch to throw. Too often it falls on charities to provide needed services and assistance to our veterans. We give them much attention in all those patriotic moments, but often do little in between. It is simply not enough in return for what we asked of them in the first place. It is important that in addition to the pats on the back, the applause, the bumper stickers and salutes on patriotic holidays that we are meeting the needs of our veterans every day. Some of us were fortunate enough to have come home with only good experiences and outrageous stories, with few needs and no scars following our service, but many were not so lucky as they sacrificed so much more. Show your appreciation for veterans every day, but on Veterans Day – Nov. 11 – make a special effort to thank the veterans you know and meet. Ask them about their service and enjoy the stories they have to share. Some will make you weep, others may leave you astounded and still others might make you laugh hysterically. But on Nov. 12 – and each day after – make it your mission to remember their needs, and look for ways to support them. They have earned our support every day, and it is something we must find a way to provide even when the parade is over.

staff notebook Our views and other news and musings from THE INDEPENDENT Staff

ness, not bullying from pulpits both religious and governmental. For those who needed a helping hand, with no shame of judgment. I want us all to be a lot more like Papa Troy, and a lot less like... Kate Ludlow and her grandfather, Troy whatever the hell Joseph, on March 28, 2011, when the City this all is. If you Council presented Troy with the Key to the haven’t, vote to- City. (Shelly Wilkison Photo) morrow.” ~ Shelly Wilkison

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, November 5, 2020 Page 3

LHISD, City plan Veterans Day events

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Liberty Hill Junior High is adjusting its annual Veterans Day celebration. Refusing to allow COVID to prevent them from honoring the men and women serving the country, the staff is working on new methods to recognize them and educate students. “We are always excited to celebrate our Veterans that have served our country to give us our freedom,” said LHJH Principal Travis Motal. “Even through our COVID restrictions, we want to honor our veterans. We will not let the pandemic stop us from honoring and celebrating our veterans.” Last year students hosted a veteran speaker and held a choir performance in honor of the national holiday and the men and women it celebrates. “Unfortunately, this year will look different from the campus and community gathering they rocked last year,” said Director of Communications and Community Relations Kristy Kercheville. “But this year has a lot of neat activities that will still honor the veterans and educate the kiddos while keeping the safety protocols in place.” Students will take part in various activities, such as a tour through a Veterans Day display in the library. Each station provides a different important piece of information, along with a video for the students to watch. The tour will run Nov. 10-12.

A drive-through at the school will be hosted by the National Junior Honor Society for veterans to drive up and receive a card and a cupcake. This event will be from 10 a.m. to noon, Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Students are also writing letters to veterans that will be delivered to the Veterans hospital in Temple. Students will record a reciting of their traditional Veteran’s Day service and play for the students in the study hall. There will be a Veterans memorial wall, with names of Veterans from students and staff set up in the main hall. Flags from military service branches will be displayed around the school and American flags will line the driveway. The City of Liberty Hill will host a service at 10 a.m. Nov, 11 at Veterans Park downtown. Veterans attending are encouraged to come in full uniform. A coffee bar will be provided from Agape BBQ. Master of ceremonies for the event will be Senior Chief Casey Cobb. The National Anthem will be performed by Holly Hardin, with Invocation by Chaplain Derek Norris. Official remarks will be given by Mayor Rick Hall. The guest speaker for the event is Chief Giovanny Magallon. The event will include a flag presentation from the color guard and a performance by the Liberty Belles. A reception will be held after the event at Hell or High Water, complete with live music.

Liberty Hill Police Blotter Prepared by Liberty Hill Police Department

Week of Oct 26-Nov 1, 2020 The Liberty Hill Police Department responded to or self-initiated a total of 378 incidents resulting in 14 cases, 24 citations, 27 warnings and one arrest. Weekly Highlights: - On Oct. 26 at approximately 7:42AM, officers responded to W SH 29 And Stonewall for an accident. - On Oct. 26 at approximately 8:45 AM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W SH 29 for an accident. - On Oct. 26 at approximately 8:52 AM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W SH 29 for an assault complaint. - On Oct. 26 at approximately 1:32 PM, officers responded to Trellis Blvd, for a theft complaint. - On Oct. 26 at approximately 6:17 PM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W SH 29 for a disturbance. - On Oct. 27 at approximately 8:36 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W SH 29 for a criminal mischief complaint. - On Oct. 27 at approximately 9:25 PM, officers responded to the 10000 block of W SH 29 for suspicious activity. - On Oct. 27 at approximately 10:03 PM, officers responded to Continental Ave for suspicious activity. - On Oct. 28 at approximately 5:03 PM, officers responded to the 2000 block of Loop 332, for a burglary of a vehicle. - On Oct. 28 at approximately 6:39 PM, officers responded to the Larkspur Park Blvd to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Oct. 28 at approximately 7:14 PM, officers responded to Rolling Hills Dr to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Oct. 29 at approximately 5:49 PM, officers responded to the 12000 block of W SH 29

to assist the Liberty Hill Fire/ EMS with a vehicle fire. - On Oct. 29 at approximately 9:16 PM, officers responded to the 17000 block of W SH 29 for an accident. - On Oct. 30 at approximately 7:42 AM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for a runaway. - On Oct. 30 at approximately 4:46 PM, officers responded to W SH 29 and CR 214 for an accident. - On Oct. 30 at approximately 6:52PM, officers respond to the 3000 block of CR 200 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Oct. 31 at approximately 11:04 AM, officers responded to W SH 29 and CR 260 for an accident. - On Oct. 31 at approximately 7:05 PM, officers responded to the 9000 block of W SH 29 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Oct. 31 at approximately 7:47 PM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for a suspicious incident. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 2:32 AM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W SH 29 for suspicious activity. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 4:00 AM, officers arrested a male adult for possession of drugs and mail theft as the result of suspicious activity. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 5:15 AM, officers responded to the 12000 block of W SH 29 for a suspicious incident. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 10:15 AM, officers responded to the 2000 block of RM 1869 for an accident. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 12:58 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W SH 29 to assist the Liberty Hill Fire/ EMS. - On Nov. 1 at approximately 10:21 PM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W SH 29 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Georgetown’s Palace Theater heads back to the stage

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer GEORGETOWN -- Serving as a staple and the face of Georgetown’s creative community, the Georgetown Palace is a deeply embedded part of the city’s colorful culture. Like many businesses and organizations, COVID-19 forced the temporary closure of the popular hotspot on the Georgetown Square. “It’s been an interesting journey. When the pandemic first started, we didn’t think it was going to last that long,” said Executive Artistic Director Ron Watson. The virus quickly put out the spark of hope for a short closure, the staff of the Palace realized closure would last longer than expected. “We had just opened a musical, Sweet Charity. The cast got opening night, and that was it, the very next night we had to shut the theater down,” said Watson. “We were hoping we were only shutting down for one week, and then we realized there was no way we could.” As the reopening process started in early June, the theater found itself facing two obstacles. “With live performance, you have two different problems. First, you have to figure out a safe way to get your audience into through your doors, seated and safe,” said Watson. “You have to get them out safely too. The second is that you have to keep the cast and the crew safe. That’s hard.” The creative minds figured out the best way to get an audience in, but issues with the cast and their safety still remained. “Before we could even try it after the governor started to open things up again, the cast had other obligations like traveling for work. That would have put us at risk,” said Watson. “About 25 percent wasn’t available because of work stuff. The other 25 percent wasn’t comfortable with per-

forming or being around people yet. The other 50 percent was ready to go.” To remain open, provide entertainment, and try to bring in revenue, Watson and staff tried offering a different kind of event. “We started showing movies again and doing musical cabaret. We’d have a performer or two and a small band,” said Watson. “We tried to do it indoors to start with and quickly realized no one was comfortable coming indoors. We had four events, and there were never more than 20 people in attendance. Just about enough to break even.” With low attendance and an almost empty theater, Watson felt they’d be better off shut down by the government. “If no one is going to come, what’s the point of being open. We were practically closed already except not by the government. It almost feels better if it had been,” he said. “If that’s what it takes to get the country or our people comfortable, I wouldn’t be opposed to it. If the government shut everything down for 30 days and we all wore masks if that’s what it takes to get us back to somewhat normal, at the time, I felt let’s just do that.” Along with several canceled shows and canceled performances in the triple digits, the newly built Doug Smith Performance Center didn’t receive the grand opening they planned in May. The $4 million building’s purpose is to help create the needed space for their education program. “Summer after summer, since 2004, our summer education program has almost 600 kids. We always had to share our facilities and never had anything dedicated to them until now,” said Watson. “Our education program had to cancel all their spring classes and productions. We tried doing online camps to supplement. At the end of June, they started in-person camps, and we actually did

After a long hiatus, the performers of the Georgetown Palace are taking the stage once again, offering outdoor performances, with their current show, Steel Magnolias. (Courtesy Photo) hold three different sessions along with online camps. Our attendance was way down.” Thinking out of the box, Watson and his remaining staff – many staff members had to be furloughed because of COVID – decided to build a stage outside and host shows after seeing the popularity of their outdoor movies. “Once we saw how well the outdoor stuff was doing, I started thinking about the musical cabarets we tried doing and thought as long as we just do one night, we should give it a shot. The Outdoors seemed to be the silver bullet for the problem.” The Palace is running its latest show, Steel Magnolias, on its outdoor stage. The show opened Oct. 9 and runs to Nov. 8. Performer and Liberty Hill Resident Meredith Brand is thrilled to be back after a long hiatus. “Finding words to describe what it feels like to be back on-

stage is difficult. For me personally, the theater is an outlet for joy,” said Brand. “There is a lot of hard work involved, but the moment the costumes go on, the house lights go down, we are in our element. Being in a show is like having an extra family for some time. They are people you work hard to please, you rely on for camaraderie, and you connect with both on and off the stage.” With COVID, the show can’t help but be different for Brand. The new ways of doing things may be different but are vital to the safety of the performers and the audience. “More than half of rehearsals

were done via zoom. We are double cast as a precautionary measure. Health checks every in-person meeting, masks at all times and social distancing, even in the dressing rooms,” said Brand. “We keep each other safe by minimizing our socialization as well. No after rehearsal outings, which are typical of some casts. But the love is here, the energy is here, and loss of all we are here for our audiences.” Watson, Brand, and the staff and performers of the Palace hope to accomplish one thing with their performances. Provide a necessary escape. One of the lines in Steel Mag-

nolias is, “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion.” We all love to be entertained. We need a way out of our heads, a way to see the world through stories different than our own,” said Brand. “Movies and televisions offer this in two dimensions. But there is something magical about live theater. Experiencing emotions in real-time with characters that you can empathize with by sharing an emotion, whether that be a laugh or a cry.”

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PUBLIC NOTICES INVITATION FOR BIDS Property maintenance including mowing for Liberty Hill Cemetery Association (LHCA) properties. Sealed bids for the contract term of two calendar years for the performance of general maintenance including mowing of the properties of the LHCA must be received on the attached LHCA bid proposal form. Sealed bids may be hand delivered to the General Manager at 1100 Loop 332 Liberty Hill. Bids may be delivered to this address between 9am and 4:30pm Monday thru Thurs-

day until November 18, 2020. Bids may be delivered to the LHCA office at 107 Brown Bridge Road on November 19, 2020 between the hours of 9am and 2pm. No bid will be accepted after 2pm on November 19, 2020. Bids may also be mailed to the Liberty Hill Cemetery Association at P. O. Box 73, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 and must be postmarked no later than November 17, 2020. Scope of Work describes the required maintenance at the LHCA properties. The scope includes insurance requirements and other specifics. A resume of prior similar work performed within the last three years must be included with each bid proposal. References are not required but are recommended and will be taken into consideration. The scope of work is available for download within the bid packet at www.libertyhillcemetery.com or a bid packet may be picked up from the General Manager Kathy Canady at her office located at 1100 Loop 332 in Liberty Hill between the hours of 9am and 4:30pm Monday thru Thursday. The LHCA reserves the right to reject any and all bids at its sole discretion. Bids must be honored for at least 60 days after the bid date. Bidders will enter into the attached contract for a term of two years for the scope of work. It is anticipated that the term of the work will begin January 1, 2021 and end December 31, 2023. Prospective bidders are encouraged to contact the General Manager Kathy Canady 512-775-7654 OR 512-7786792 to set up an appointment for a site visit and a discussion of the expected quality of work. (11/12p) MISSING PROPERTY If you believe the police department may have a found item that belongs to you, you can call the Property Division directly at 512-548-5530 or email at ekrause@libertyhilltx.gov. When contacting the

Property Division, describe the item(s) you are looking for, in detail, and we will let you know if we have it. If we do, we will make arrangements to get it back to you. (11/26)

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Liberty Hill has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for a Zone Map Amendment from the General Commercial / Retail (C-3) zoning classification to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) classification on the following property: A portion of Lot 1, Replat of Quiktrip No. 4156 Addition, Liberty Hill, Williamson County, Texas; located at 14010 State Highway 29, generally located along the north side of State Highway 29, approximately 555.0 feet west of County Road 214, and identified as Assessor’s Parcel Number R-582722. In accordance with Section 211.006, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on this application will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission (Commission) on Tuesday, November 17, 2020, beginning at 6:30 PM. Upon receiving a recommendation from the Commission, the City Council will conduct its own public hearing on this matter at 6:30 PM on Monday, November 23, 2020, and take final action. Both public hearings will be held at the Municipal Court Building, Council Chambers, 2801 RM 1869 in Liberty Hill, Texas. For more information, you may either visit the Development Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 778-5449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov. By order of the Development Services Director on October 30, 2020. (11/5)

ANTHONY FLORES PHOTO

Hoping students learn about the importance of voting, LHJH Librarian Katie Prescott and the social studies staff developed a plan to let students participate in a mock vote.

LHJH students get taste of election process

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Students at Liberty Hill Junior High got a taste of the election process on Election Day, casting their ballots along side everyone else. Librarian Katie Prescott and the social studies staff created a plan to educate students on their right to vote and why it’s critical to participate in the political process. “With the seventh grade, we did lessons with them about the history of voting rights,” said Prescott. “The second day was what it means to be a citizen how to give back to the community. To find a problem and then try to solve it. That’s what it means to be a citizen. The third day was all about exploring candidates and how people choose who they vote for.” LHJH Principal Travis Motal shared his initial skepticism and worry, at hosting a mock election for students. “I was very hesitant at first when they pitched it because I didn’t think we could do Trump and Biden,” he said. “I was worried about the conflict it would create. When they proposed a gold panther and purple panther instead, I said, let’s make it happen. I think it’s great when the staff comes up with these great ideas to support the kids and teach the kids.” With an alternative to the potentially polarizing national candidates, Motal set aside his

hesitancy and fully embraced the lesson that students can learn. “I think this is tremendous that kids understand that their vote counts and why they need to be diligent about researching issues and finding what’s passionate for them and why it’s passionate for them.” Prescott and the social studies set to work creating the mock candidates. “As a team with the seventh-grade social studies staff, we worked on creating these candidates, and the goal was to make them equal out so that one candidate would be as equally difficult to vote for or as hard as the other one,” said Prescott. “We figured out that this is how people vote. There are just some nonnegotiable things. They’re willing to let other things go that aren’t nearly as important. It’s been interesting and a good experience.” After creating the candidates, next came the campaigns to help students see the similarities and differences in their choices. “We posted election signs all around. Campaign signs” said Prescott. “Social studies teachers had a slideshow that compared the two candidates for the students. We did this so that students would be informed voters before they walked in.” For the big day, Prescott set up several ballot stations in the library for students wanting to

participate and stop by to cast their votes on laptops. “It’s been a positive experience. Even in the conversations as they’re walking out, I can hear it. We want them to be open and honest about their decisions,” she said. “This shouldn’t be something you should be afraid to share with other people. It’s supposed to be a judgment-free zone.” Eighth-grader Taylor Gaines shared her feeling on why learning about the political process is a vital part of preparing for the future and her takeaway from the activity. “I think it’s important because when we get older, we’re going to have to know how everything works and the experience so we’re prepared for when we’re older,” said Gaines. “I think it’s important to sometimes keep your opinions to yourself. Sometimes your friends have different opinions, and you conflict a lot.” For Prescott, this is another successful project in a long line of popular activities. The librarian takes pride in the reaction and engagement of her students. “A lot of their discussions about why they voted for one over the other has been very eye-opening because they’re adamant about some issues,” she said. “That’s refreshing as a seventh-grader a 12 or 13-year-old to see they have these beliefs and thinking through the process.”

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Have you ever wondered about the faces of Liberty Hill’s veterans? We hope these two pages of veterans from our community, or who have a special place in the lives of local residents, will serve as the beginning of a new tradition in The Independent as we salute those who have served. Look closely at these faces and the names and experiences of our veterans. There are those who have served 40 years, representatives from every branch and every theater of conflict dating back close to 90 years. We honor their service and salute the families that are so proud of their loved ones.

ANTONIO CANAS

Captain, US Army (retired) 25 years

MARK A. BASALLA Captain, US Air Force 1992-1996

JEN BENNINGFIELD

Gunnery Sgt., US Marines 1997-2017

THERESA D. PORTER

Staff Sgt., US Marines 1997-2006

SCOTT QUAIFE

US Army, Military Intelligence

US Army AH-64D Apache Pilot

1988-1992 - Desert Shield/Desert Storm

KEITH BATY

BARNEY GENE DYKES

MIKE EDDLEMAN

HARRY ‘RAY’ LANDRY

JAMES RICHARD DYKES, JR.

ANASTASIA CORKER

Sgt., US Army, 2005-2010 Iraq 2007-2009

US Marines 1976-1981

ALRED CHAINEY Vietnam Veteran

PATRICK J. MCELHINNEY

Major, US Marines 1966-1986, Vietnam

US Air Force 1957-1961

US Marines 1961-1965

Sgt., US Army 1991-1998

Captain, US Air Force 2003-present Enduring Freedom

CHRIS JEANS

Lance Cpl., US Marines (Reserve) 2001-2008 -- 2 tours Iraq

JOHN CASCIO

Petty Officer 2nd Class US Navy, 1971-1979 Sgt., US Army, 1980-1984

DAN RIGGS

Fire Controlman 3rd Class US Navy 1944-1946

Thursday, November 5, 2020

JIM ROACHE

ROBERT ‘BOB’ REED

DOYLE LEE HOPKINS

TRUMAN COX

Vietnam Veterans, US Air Force 1966-1970

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

CODY BENNINGFIELD

LAMAR NESBITT WALLACE, JR.

US Navy 1951-1955

US Marines 1972-1975

CHRIS NANCE

Petty Officer 1st Class, US Navy

2007-present -- Iraq, Bahrain, Afghanistan

WILLIAM JOHN GOULD, SR.

DOYLE FOX

Cpl., US Army-Air Force 1940s, World War II

ROY WILSON JONES Specialist, US Army 1972-1975

Specialist, US Army 1959-1968

J.D. FRIDAY

RANZY KENDRICK

Chief Petty Officer (FMF/SW) US Navy, 2003-present

Sgt., US Army 1968-1971 - Vietnam

BRAD LANGHAM

US Navy/Navy Reserve, 16 years Iraq Veteran

Master Sgt., US Army 1965-1986

Cpl., US Army 1950-1952, Korean Conflict

MICHAEL VIEYRA

Sgt., US Army 2003-2008

ROBERT ALLEN KURCZEWSKI

US Air Force 1952-1963

LOWELL KERCHEVILLE

Warrant Officer, US Army 1st Cavalry Pilot,1988-1996 Desert Storm

ZEBADIAH MILLER

Lt. Col., US Army National Guard

18 years, currently serving in Afghanistan

KRYSTAL HERNANDEZ Tech Sgt., Texas Air National Guard 2006-present

LEWIS KETCHUM US Army Vietnam

Thursday, November 5, 2020

GERALD VIOLETTE Captain, US Marines 1995-2003 US Army, 2007-present

LOGAN D. SCALLEN US Army Engineer 2014-present Iraq, Kuwait

US Air Force, 1985-1992 Operation Desert Shield/Storm Clark Airbase Philippines

US Army Infantry World War I 1917-1919

Staff Sergeant 1943-1945

PHILLIP M. ELLIS

JOE A. HERNANDEZ

JULIO MARTINEZ

DALE BATES

Command Master Chief (Ret), US Navy 1959-1965, 1971-1988

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

VICTOR DE LA CRUZ Gunnery Sgt. (Ret) US Marines, 1979-1999

EDWARD J. PORTER

RUSSELL DONAHO Specialist, US Army 2000-2013

ROBERT E. HARRIS

ALEX MATAU

Chief Warrant Officer 4 US Army, 1969-1984 Helicopter Pilot, Vietnam Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Medal with Valor

BRIAN HAWKINS Lt. Col, US Army 2001-present

JEREMY PAUL BUSK

Sgt. 1st Class, US Army 1961-1981

Sgt. US Marines 2005-2014

DENNIS VELEZ, SR. US Army 1982-2010

Col., US Army 1944-1976 WWII, Korea, Vietnam

Major (Ret), US Army 1966-1996

Specialist, US Army 2011-2014 101st Airborne

LUKE PLEAK

WILLIAM R. PATRICK US Navy World War II

Lt. US Army National Guard 1998-2007

TERRY A. SMITH

EDWARD HASHBARGER

RAHUL SHARMA

LES SWAIN

SCOTT AKANEWICH

JOHNNIE DEE SHANNON

JOSEPH SHANE SHANNON

JOHNNY DELL SHANNON

JAMES O. HANLEY

Staff Sgt. (Ret), US Army 1996-2016

STEVE BIBLE

SeaBee, US Navy 1969-1974

STEPHEN PAGE

Page 7

Private 1st Class, US Army 2008-2011

1st Class Boatswains Mate US Navy, World War II

US Marines 2003-2008

Specialist U.S. Army, Irag

US Navy 1941-1945

CATHERINE ROBERTS

Sgt., US Army 2002-2012

Staff Sgt., US Army Artillery World War II

Corporal US Army

LANDON HANNA

Sr. Airman, Air National Guard 2014-present

ROBIN ‘PETERSON’ BENSON

PETE GARNER

Lt. Col., US Army National Guard 2001-present

Chief Petty Officer, US Navy, 1993

SCOTT PETERSON

CORKY CUNNINGHAM

BRAD HANNA

KEVIN BRUNELLE

Staff Sgt., US Air Force August 1987-Sept. 3, 1998

MIKE EDDINGS

Chief Warrant Officer 4 (Ret) US Army -- AH 64 Instructor Pilot

Sgt., US Marines, 1996

ANTHONY BUCK

Sergeant First Class US Army - 24 years

US Army

CALVIN TANNER

Staff Sgt., US Air Force August 1966 - August 1970

US Navy, Photo taken

SGT. GARY M. RODRIGUEZ US Air Force 1972-1976 Photo - Developer SR-71 and Satellite

ROY VALERO RODRIGUEZ Tech Sgt. US Air Force 1947-1958 Navigator and Radar Instructor B-24 Bombers

SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, November 5, 2020 Page 8

Donwerth, Panther boys qualify for cross country regionals

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When the Class 5A Region 4 cross country championships take place in Corpus Christi on Nov. 9, Liberty Hill will be represented in the form of senior Ayanna Donwerth for the girls and the Panthers’ boys’ squad. Passage south was booked for the group of runners with their respective performances at the District 25 meet at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock on Oct. 30. Donwerth crossed the finish line in the girls’ varsity race in a time of 18:24.20, which was good enough for a third-place showing behind winner Isabel Conde De Frankenberg of Cedar Park, who ran 17:18.80 and Georgetown’s Mckenzie Bailey, who was runner-up in 18:12.50. According to head coach Kim Holt, Donwerth is on track for a return trip to the state championships after a 22nd-place finish last season when the Panthers were still competing at the Class 4A level, as long as she continues to do what got her to this point in the season. “I haven’t had a chance to look at the other districts, but if she continues to compete how she has been then I think she has a good chance to make it to state,” said Holt. “I’m sure she would like to have her team on the starting line with her for support, but I feel like she’ll be ready to compete. She’s a senior and has many years of experience.” Donwerth will not have her teammates beside her after Liberty Hill’s girls’ team finished third in the six-team field with

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Senior Ayanna Donwerth (#424) was the only Liberty Hill girl to qualify for regionals with a third-place ﬁnish at the district meet in Round Rock on Oct. 30. 92 points behind champions Georgetown (26) and second-place Cedar Park (54). Ironically, the four-point advantage the Panthers enjoyed over fourth-place Leander would’ve normally been enough for them to move on to regionals. However, due to health restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic, only the top two teams from district were allowed to move on the regionals instead of the usual three, but Holt views it as

something her team can use as a motivational springboard moving forward. “The girls are disappointed they don’t get to go to regionals, but we think they competed really well in the new 5A district by finishing third,” she said. “This gives them a goal to work for next year – to finish higher as a team.” Following Donwerth in the finishing order for Liberty Hill were Daisy Anaya (19th, 20:05.10), Avery Holland (27th, 20:43.90), Natalie Roth

(28th, 20:49.50), Emma Hiebner (30th, 21:04.50), Angela Mena (31st, 21:17.20) and Tyler Goode (44th, 24:27.50). On the boys’ side, Liberty Hill ﬁnished second in the team standings with 62 points to winners Cedar Park, who posted 47, but easily outdistanced third-place Leander (73). Senior Isaiah De La Garza led the way for the Panthers with a seventh-place showing in a time of 16:16.30, with teammate Jacob Russell in eighth at 16:18.50.

De La Garza’s time was a new personal best, which simply highlighted the boys’ overall success even more, said Holt. “We’re very proud of what the boys accomplished in the new 5A district,” she said. “Isaiah had a great race and it was one of the best races he has had all season. The boys overall had a great race as a team.” Senior Cade Johnson was next for Liberty Hill in 11th place with a time of 16:23.60, followed by teammates Caden Glenn (17th,

PANTHER R GAMES FOR OCT. 29

16:41.10), Cayden Branch (19th, 16:42.70), Ryan McCarn (32nd, 17:18.30) and Brandon Colicher (39th, 17:49.10). Cedar Park’s Jack Woods won the boys’ varsity race in 15:52.10. Another bright spot for the Purple- and-Gold on the day was the performance of the Panthers’ boys’ freshman squad, who won their competition with 16 points, taking four of the top six spots, including winner Anthony Barreras, who won in 17:26.30, runner-up Toby Rimann (17:33.40), Jackson Hope (ﬁfth, 18:06.70 and Luke Lande (sixth, 18:34.10). Holt said the freshman race provided an opportunity for all of her rookie runners to gain valuable experience. “This year we had a lot of freshman boys, so with the UIL limiting each race to seven runners we wanted more kids to participate,” she said. “So, we put together seven freshman runners and we thought they would do very well and they did. We’re very proud of them.” The Class 5A state championships are scheduled for Nov. 23 in Round Rock and whether or not her team has any runners participating, Holt is happy with how her entire squad performed all season long as a Class 5A team for the ﬁrst time in school history. “We feel really good about how the kids did in the new 5A district,” she said. “They competed well and they came away with many individual and team medals. We’re very proud of all the runners this year.”

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Liberty Hill tennis team enjoys renaissance under a new coach

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Sherry Rhoden decided to make the switch from being strictly a teaching tennis professional to adding coaching a high-school team to her list of responsibilities, she had one goal first and foremost as far as how she was going to go about shaping her new squad. “The first goal was to unite everyone and this will be an ongoing goal spreading into spring tennis,” said Rhoden, who just finished her first fall of team tennis as Liberty Hill’s new head coach. “I do feel the team is more united than they were in July and it wasn’t hard to unite them because they were craving it, they needed it and they wanted it. Being united had to start with (Assistant) Coach (Sue) Davidson and myself. She and I have so much in common, so it has been a super-fun journey full of unforeseen blessings for everyone. When players and parents see their coaches united, it shines to everyone.” So, priority number one accomplished. But, it was more than just players and coaches who made it happen, she said.

“The booster club board has supported our efforts since day one and their tireless volunteer hours have helped us all become even more united. We’ve had so much support from the families and the staff at Liberty Hill High School and all of this has helped us unite.” Also high on Rhoden’s to-do list for Panthers tennis was to create and nurture an environment of not only competition, but caring, as well. “I know the players are more united because they’re enjoying time away from matches and practice together, they’re checking on each other like families do and they look forward to being together and challenging each other to be better on and off the court,” she said. “The day after our last match, JV and varsity met and all the players took time to reflect on the season using a two-page questionnaire I made. I did this for them to have time to reflect and appreciate the season before jumping in and moving on to the offseason, but I also benefited. Many of the reflections brought happy tears to my eyes and I loved reading them.” On the court, the Panthers

posted a 9-4 record in advancing to the bi-district round of the playoffs, with players such as Ellis Young, Sophie Sherman, Mackenzie Coleman, Patrick Fay, Joseph Sherman and Colin Garner leading the way, among many others. But, Rhoden said the campaign was more one of establishing a solid foundation for the future, which is what stands out most in her mind, she said. “My favorite part will always be witnessing the players set their goals and achieve them,” said Rhoden. “I absolutely love working with coachable players and I think the LAURA COLEMAN PHOTO best moments for the players Liberty Hill head tennis coach Sherry Rhoden strove to establish a sense of unity in her first seawas all the new and exciting son as Panthers coach – which was accomplished through events such as a having a “fun day” things they experienced. The in which a slip-and-slide was enjoyed by coaches and players alike. player reflections proved to me they love the team building-activities. They enjoyed the fellowship – getting to eat together and talk about things besides tennis. They loved our new fall t-shirts, our new scoreboard and the new games and drills we did.” So, another box checked. But, what kind of report card would she give herself?

See TENNIS, Page 12

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Blake Wilson’s (#56) a big boy, but not as big as some opponents he faces – as shown here against Marble Falls – and yet gets it done due to the intangibles he and his defensive teammates bring to the fight.

It’s not the offense, but who runs it is that matters

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Last Friday in Marble Falls we got an up-closeand-personal look at another team who employs the famous Slot-T offense Liberty Hill has perfected over the years in the Mustangs and what we saw was quite startling, indeed. Marble Falls was held to under 100 yards of offense on the evening, while the visitors ran and rolled up yardage with the usual precision and authority we’re used to seeing from the Purple-and-Gold. Which leads us to a distinct conclusion. It’s not the offense itself, but who runs it which makes all the difference. For the uninitiated at Friday’s contest, one could never have believed both teams were using the same offensive tactics, as the Mustangs seemed to be running around this way and that without much purpose and whatever plan they might have had was quickly blown up by a relentless and ruthless Panthers defense time and again. While all the while, the Liberty Hill offense went about its usual business in piling up 413 rushing yards on the night, with senior fullback Blake Simpson leading the way with 213 yards on 18 carries and oh, by the way, five – count ‘em, five – touchdowns for good measure in the Panthers’ 40-7 demolition of the Mustangs. In fact, the difference between the sides was so stark, one might say the only resemblance between the two was the fact both teams utilize purple and gold as their primary colors. But, there’s truly only one Purple-and-Gold. Which leads us to another question. Why is that? How is it someone else can attempt to do the same exact

thing you do without the same results? Simple. Anyone who is around Liberty Hill head coach Jeff Walker and his entire staff and observes how both coaches and players handle their respective daily business will soon understand. When a not-so-young man from Southern California decided to enlist in the U.S. Army in the days after 9/11 nearly two decades ago, he got some good advice from someone who knew. There’s the right way, the wrong way and the Army way. Well, the same can be applied to the Panthers’ football program. Only replace the word “Army” with “Liberty Hill.” We’re pretty sure Panthers senior quarterback Charlie Calabretta would love to drop back into the pocket or roll out looking for receivers downfield and wing the ball all over the lot 25 or 30 times per game. After all, that’s what quarterbacks are known for – throwing the ball, as opposed to simply handing it off. But, that’s not the Liberty Hill way. Personal glory and accolades are sacrificed for the betterment of the team and that’s all that matters. By the way, Calabretta indeed has four touchdown passes this season, so he’s more than proven he can sling the ball with success. No matter. How is it offensive lineman who are sometimes outweighed by 100 pounds or more by their opposite numbers across the line of scrimmage consistently outplay their counterparts? With a very effective combination of hard work, selflessness, guile, grit and determination – that’s how. And one very effective and deadly playbook that is executed nearly flawlessly after endless practice repetitions result in the kind of muscle

memory that allows those who employ it to do so with minimal thought process. Just read and react, baby. But, back to the defense. Whatever those guys are eating for their pregame meal should become a staple of the Panthers’ training table, that’s for sure. The only points the Mustangs mustered was a touchdown on a fumble recovery, which means the “Purple Reign” – as we’re referring to the defensive unit from here on out – pitched a shutout for the fourth consecutive contest and still hasn’t allowed even a single point in district play. Now, we all know the level of opposition the Panthers are stuck facing each week in their new district, but the fact remains zeros are zeros. We don’t care who you are, who you’re playing or where you’re playing. Led by the likes of Andon Thomas, Lloyd Johnson, Blake Wilson, Aaron Brewer and Luke Huddleston, Liberty Hill’s defense has been magnificent and in some ways has even outshone the offense, who usually gets all the attention. Even Walker, who’s been critical of his offense’s level of play this season, has nary a discouraging word to say concerning his defense, which is coached by defensive coordinator Kent Walker, who certainly deserves a shout out for the work he and his defensive coaches have done in raising the entire unit’s level of play. In fact, ever since giving up a 75-yard touchdown pass on the season’s very first play from scrimmage in the opener against Killeen Ellison, the Panthers’ “D” has been on point. So, combine a very efficient offense with an outstanding defense and what does one get? The Liberty Hill way. Often imitated, but rarely replicated. Just ask Marble Falls.

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Bailey Becker (#6) has been a critical contributor to the Lady Panthers’ cause this season after making it to the varsity squad in her junior year.

Waiting her turn in stride Lady Panthers junior was patient for a chance and it’s paid off

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Bailey Becker had to wait her turn. While she watched others ascend the ranks of Liberty Hill volleyball, she continued toiling away on the junior varsity squad just waiting for a chance to move on up with the big girls. This season, her wait finally ended. Now that Becker’s finally arrived on the varsity scene, she’s making the most of the experience. “It’s been really enjoyable to be on varsity this season,” she said. “I feel like this season has gone very well because there’s so much talent on the team, which makes matches and practices really exciting.” According to Liberty Hill head coach Gretchen Peterson, Becker had what it took to crack the varsity lineup, but the tipping point which put her over the top was her dedication away from the team. “We always knew Bailey had tremendous talent and potential and the work ethic and drive were there, so we knew she would be ready,” said Peterson. “But so much credit to her – the amount of work she has put in on her own during the offseason – summer and club season have really paid off – she’s matured as a player and has shown such growth in her game. All the praise to her for making this happen – she deserves the credit.” Becker has featured in 12 of the Lady Panthers’ 16 matches so far this season, with the middle blocker’s best performance a seven-kill effort in a straight-sets victory against Glenn. In all, she has recorded 28 kills in 33 sets played and added six aces on the current campaign. However, perhaps the most valuable aspect of Becker’s season has been her ability to step in when teammates have been missing from the lineup,

she said. “I think my ability to face challenges has been a key component in getting playing time, like when the starting middles were in quarantine or just during a tough match,” said Becker. “I still need to work on my blocking and aggression at the net, but I feel like my serves and position flexibility has been a valuable part of my game.” Peterson said Becker provided exactly what her team needed, when they needed it – something her teammates were completely cognizant and appreciative of. “We’re very blessed to have players like Bailey who are versatile and can step in and play – she did a great job and the team did a great job of rallying behind her and supporting her,” she said. “There was a great deal of learning she went through, but she took it all in stride and caught on so quickly, she was ready and only became better from the experience. It’s also a great confidence builder to the team and Bailey – she now has those experiences to lean on.” Becker is simply another in a long line of Lady Panthers who are all cut from the same cloth, said Peterson. “Each player is a key component to our team and brings something positive to the table and Bailey is no different,” she said. “She has an amazing attitude, she works hard and never loses focus of trying to get better – a true team player – always looking to contribute and step in any way the team may need. She’s focused, but doesn’t take herself too serious and learns and responds well with the next play – she’s a light on the court and this team.” Not being a full-time starter isn’t an easy role to excel in, but Becker has it down to a science, as do all of the Lady Panthers’ bench players, said Peterson.

“We really try to reinforce the belief each person is a contributor – roles may change, positions may change, but each team member is valued and important,” she said. “We trust each other, we trust them to do their job, no matter what that may be, or when they may be called on to do so, but at the end of the day, players make plays and we know we have the players to make the plays we need .” Like Becker. “It’s been gratifying to see my hard work pay off and to play with all my friends,” said Becker. “After a match, it feels really good knowing I helped my team no matter what the outcome was.” Peterson said Becker can serve as inspiration to other players who must wait for their chance to shine by the way she has conducted herself throughout the entire process – one which continues on. “Bailey is a great example of what hard work and dedication will do,” she said. “She put in the work and it wasn’t an overnight success story and she’s still putting in the work. Working while you wait is what life and sports are about. Sometimes we have to wait for our moments, but sitting there doing nothing isn’t going to help you when that moment arises. Work while you wait so you’re ready. Bailey did that and I’m so proud of her for that.” As for what she would tell those players who aspire to reach the level she finally has, Becker offered words of wisdom from someone who knows. “My advice to players in a similar situation to me is to remember what you’re working toward and what you have to do to get there,” she said. “Don’t give up no matter how hard it gets and it will pay off in the end.”

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Simpson scores 5 TDs in Panthers’ 40-7 win

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Liberty Hill head football coach Jeff Walker wanted more out of Blake Simpson and on Friday night in Marble Falls, he certainly got it from the senior fullback as he scored five touchdowns in a 40-7 victory over the Mustangs. “I challenged him to play better than he has so far this season,” said Walker. “We’ve seen him take over games before.” Simpson definitely took this contest over and it didn’t take very long before he started to stamp his influence on the proceedings. However, after the home side won the coin toss and deferred, the Panthers started off on their own 26-yard line and it was fellow senior Trey Seward who got the early call on three consecutive runs of 28, 6 and 5 yards, respectively, before Eric De La Cruz powered his way through the Mustangs defensive front on back-to-back plays. Finally, on the seventh play of the drive, Simpson got his hands on the ball and rumbled into the end zone from 27 yards out and a 7-0 lead after an Ethan Minix extra point

with 9:46 remaining in the opening quarter. On the ensuing possession, the Panthers’ defense picked up right where they left off in posting three consecutive shutouts by stuffing the Mustangs’ offense on a three-andout, which included a tackle for loss by senior linebacker Luke Huddleston and a combined sack of Marble Falls quarterback Jake Becker by Liberty Hill defenders Andon Thomas and Lloyd Johnson, which forced a punt. When the Panthers took over at their own 45, Simpson put together his own personal scoring drive, which consisted of one play and 55 yards for his second score of the evening and a 14-0 Liberty Hill lead. After the Mustangs fumbled the ball back to the visitors on the next series, Simpson completed his hat trick of touchdowns, finishing off a 10-play, 43-yard drive with a 7-yard run and a 21-0 lead – all before the first quarter had even ended. Once the second quarter began, the game took on a chippy nature, with several unsportsmanlike conduct penalties being traded between the clubs,

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor The first time the Lady Panthers of Liberty Hill faced rivals Georgetown on a volleyball court this season, the Eagles stormed out to an early lead in winning the first set before the Purple-and-Gold rebounded to win in four sets on the road. This time around in their own gym, Ailie Hair wasn’t going to let the visitors gain any momentum at the outset. Hair racked up a squad-best eight kills and five blocks in a 3-0 (25-23, 25-13, 25-21) victory over Georgetown on Oct. 31 in a critical district match which saw Liberty Hill maintain its third-place position in the standings as the teams head down the final stretch of the regular season. Hair said the victory will bode well for her and her teammates as they approach the playoffs. “It feels pretty good and will build our confidence,” said the junior middle blocker. “We’re doing good and we need to just focus now on the last three matches.” Unlike the first meeting between the sides when the Lady Panthers started off on the wrong foot, they came storming out of the gates in this contest, although the Eagles were giving them all they could handle early on. Hair powered home a kill for the first Liberty Hill point of the match and from there, she was a dominant force at the net, along with fellow blocker Lilli Wilkins and it wasn’t long before the Lamar University-bound senior recorded her first block of the afternoon.

The entire first set saw the sides never more than three points apart until the Lady Panthers surged ahead to win, 25-23, with Hair picking up six kills and a pair of blocks in the process. Liberty Hill’s strong net play continued in the second set, as senior outside hitter Kindsee Escamilla got into the act with a kill, a pair of blocks and an ace, along with sophomore Kaileigh Truslow, who hammered back-to-back kills late in the set to help close it out when junior Emma Becker produced a winner to put the Lady Panthers up 2-0 in sets. The third set more resembled the first as the teams fought back and forth, as Maddi Rowley had three kills and Wilkins had a pair, but it was Truslow who came on strong late, with aces on consecutive points and four kills in all as Liberty Hill secured the victory. Both Hair and Truslow missed the first meeting with Georgetown and the duo’s presence in the lineup this time around provided her club with the proper impetus, said Lady Panthers head coach Gretchen Peterson. “Having Kaileigh and Ailie let us get back into our normal rotation,” she said. However, it was ultimately Hair who made the difference. “Ailie came through really well for us today,” said Peterson. “She was in her zone and wants to do so well for her team.” Wilkins, Truslow and Becker each added seven kills to the cause, while Emma Parsons and Becker collected 20 and 13 assists, respectively.

something Walker attributed to the Mustangs having talked themselves up in the week leading up to the contest. “They wanted to come out and prove they could play with us,” he said. “I guess there was a lot of talking going on.” A scoreless second quarter did little to quell the Panthers’ momentum, although it was briefly interrupted in the third when Marble Falls junior Tim Vidal scooped up a Liberty fumble and returned it 20 yards for what turned out to be the Mustangs’ only points of the night. With the score at 21-7 nearing the end of the third period, De La Cruz busted in from three yards out and after another Marble Falls fumble inside their own 20 on the next series, Simpson scored from 15 yards out on the Panthers’ first play and just like that it was 34-7 after the extra point failed. On the Panthers’ next possession, senior quarterback Charlie Calabretta found Seward down the right sideline for a 14-yard pass play to set Simpson up for his fifth touchdown, a 17-yard run for the final points of the game. But despite the fact the scoring was done, the Liberty Hill

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Blake Simpson (#42) scored five touchdowns in Liberty Hill’s 40-7 road win against Marble Falls on Oct. 30. offense still wasn’t finished and all but wrap up the district Liberty Hill’s defense rolling up yards and taking title. pitched a shutout for the time off the clock. In all, Simpson piled up a sea- fourth straight game, as the After the defense had forced son-high 189 yards on 16 car- Mustangs lone score of the yet another three-and-out on ries along with his five touch- night resulted from a fumble the Mustangs, the Panthers downs, while Seward ran 14 return – something Walker took over at their own 10-yard times for 139 yards and De La praised his troops on that side line before running out the Cruz 11 for 40, as the Panthers of the ball for. clock with an epic 17-play, collected 381 yards rushing on 63-yard drive to end the game the game. See MARBLE FALLS, Page 12

Hair dominant in Lady Panthers’ victory the win.

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Liberty Hill junior middle blocker Ailie Hair (#19) had a team-leading eight kills and five blocks in the Lady Panthers’ 3-0 (25-23, 25-13, 25-21) home victory over Georgetown on Oct. 31. Truslow also served three aces to go with a pair from Becker and Haley Kuhlmann had 13 digs, along with 11 each for Rowley and Becker, while Wilkins added three blocks. Reagan Forrest led the Lady Eagles with seven kills, while Lili Barker added six in defeat. The Lady Panthers now hold the tiebreaker over Georgetown in the standings after having swept the season series

between the teams – a fact not lost on Peterson, who pointed out its importance. “What this does is take the pressure off a bit because we still have Cedar Park and Rouse coming up,” she said. “But, we still need to get better.” Liberty Hill (14-4, 8-3) will next face Marble Falls and Rouse on Nov. 6 and Nov. 13 to close out the regular season.

Liberty Hill 3, Glenn 0 On Oct. 30, the Lady Panthers defeated Glenn on the road by a score of 3-0 (25-14, 25-16, 25-16), as Becker and Truslow led Liberty Hill with 10 kills each. Parsons had 23 assists, while Becker added 15 to go with an ace and Kuhlmann and Truslow collected 18 and six digs, respectively. Wilkins got a block and Peyton Lilienthal served an ace in

Junior varsity Liberty Hill’s junior varsity lost to Georgetown, 2-0 (18-25, 14-25), as Morgan Poulain had three kills, an ace, three blocks and four digs in the match, while Dara Hawkins had three assists. Bailey Lundy had seven kills and Paris Hunter six in a 2-1 (23-25, 27-25, 15-25) loss to Glenn. Hawkins had 20 assists, Mackenzie Bamsch 12 digs and Poulain four blocks. Freshmen The Lady Panthers’ freshman squad remained a perfect 17-0 on the season with a 2-0 (25-14, 25-16) victory over Georgetown. Kealy Dirner led Liberty Hill with 12 kills, while Gigi Mason added eight, with Carson Glenn getting 25 assists in the win. Dirner also had 12 kills in a 2-0 (25-9, 25-12) victory over Glenn, while Mason added five kills and Glenn had 21 assists. Flex Liberty Hill’s flex team also won, 2-1 (25-19, 23-25, 25-17), as Sydney Ballew had six kills and Cecelia Valdovinos added five, while Brooke Constantino and Hannah Karr recorded 12 and 11 assists, respectively. Constantino and Hannah Smith each served four aces in the win. The Lady Panthers also defeated Glenn, 2-1 (15-25, 2517, 25-15), as Ballew led with five kills and Callie Pogue and Kiley Wood each had three. Valdovinos had five blocks, while Constantino had seven assists and two aces in the win.

LHJH SPORTS UPDATE Football

Liberty Hill Junior High School’s football squads played Forbes Middle school on Oct. 27 and won three of the four games. The 8th-Grade Purple won, 26-6, as Haegan Oncken scored two rushing touchdowns to lead the Panthers’ rushing attack. Kendrick Hicks added another touchdown on offense and Oncken added a kick return for a touchdown immedi-

ately after Forbes scored their only touchdown of the game. The 8th-Grade Gold lost, 200. The Panthers’ offense had a couple of long drives, but were unable to put the ball in the end zone. AJ Maxey made several tackles on defense. The 7th-Grade Purple won, 44-12, with Grey Hargrove and DJ Seaborn both scored two rushing touchdowns to lead the Liberty Hill offensive

attack. Jordan Andrews had a 61-yard interception return for a touchdown, while Jeremiah Bonds scored on a kickoff return and Gavin Meuse added a rushing touchdown. The 7th-Grade Gold won, 300, as Ty Trapani, CJ McGraw, Jack Juren and Kale Kubiak each scored a touchdown. The Panthers’ defense shut down the Falcons’ offense all night.

FIND BREAKING NEWS DAILY!

LHINDEPENDENT.COM Liberty Hill’s Brendan Stafford (#34) runs the ball during the Panthers’ junior-high game against Hutto on Oct. 14.

Thursday, November 5, 2020

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page 11

PANTHER OF THE WEEK Taking it to the next level LHHS volleyballer moving on to Division I

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Don’t mess with the stare. When Lilli Wilkins fixes her eyes on an opponent across the net from her middle blocker position on the Liberty Hill front line, she means business. In fact, once the ball goes up, there is one thing which gives her more pleasure than anything else on a volleyball court. “I really love shutting them down,” said Wilkins. “Just stuffing the crap out of them.” Indeed, blocking shots is one of her primary responsibilities for the Lady Panthers and something the 5-foot-10 senior takes a great deal of pride in for not only the physical toll it takes on opponents, but also the mental impact it has, she said. “I love blocking people,” said Wilkins. “After a while, you start getting into people’s heads and they start to panic.” Wilkins is currently ranked sixth in the district with 40 blocks, although she’s accomplished that number in only 43 sets played, resulting in a district-leading 0.9 blocks per set. But, Wilkins is about more than numbers, said Liberty Hill head coach Gretchen Peterson. “Lilli plays hard, practices hard and is very smart. She really understands the fundamentals and the skills it takes, she has a great ability to reflect and respond after mistakes, is always working to make those slight adjustments and she also has a mental toughness – very blue collar in a way,” she said. “She can take in the feedback and put it into action. It’s great for the younger players in our program to see. She can be the good cop, but also the one who

gives it to them straight and they respect her, so they know it comes from a place of positivity and really wanting to help. It’s sincere – what you see is what you get.” Wilkins’ considerable skills – both tangible and intangible – have landed her a scholarship to play at Lamar University, where next season she’ll be playing Division I college volleyball – something Peterson said is par for the course after the effort, drive and determination Wilkins has shown over the course of her Lady Panthers career as far as getting better and never being satisfied in holding not only herself, but her teammates, to a higher standard. “We’ve always known Lilli has had tremendous drive and talent and has always been transparent about her goals to play in college,” she said. “She’s played at an extremely high level during the club season and has put in the work – so it’s very, very deserving – she has worked her butt off and overcome injuries and other obstacles, but has never taken her eyes off the ultimate goal. So proud of the work she’s put in and the player she has become.” But, before she moves on to take a place at the Lady Cardinals’ net, she has some unfinished business in Purple-andGold as she and her teammates are currently experiencing a season like no other due to the ruggedness of their schedule after moving up to Class 5A this season. However, it’s something Wilkins has embraced, she said. “This season is so much better,” said Wilkins. “The momentum we create now will

help us in the playoffs, as opposed to beating everyone 25-10 all year and then losing in the second round – this way it will be a lot easier transition when we get to the postseason.” Wilkins has developed a strong middle-of-the-net partnership with junior Ailie Hair – something she said is one of the most gratifying aspect of her entire high-school experience. “I love Ailie to death,” she said. “She was on JV her freshman year and even when we practiced together, we just really clicked. Our skills are very similar in that we’re both very quick and we get very competitive.” According to Peterson, the pair – along with junior Bailey Becker – have developed the kind of chemistry any coach would want among players who play the same position. “They’re a great trio – Bailey, Lilly and Ailie – they all have their own style, but push and learn from each other,” said Peterson. “Lilli has been a great example and leader for them, but also for all our middles – she really reaches out to them, she wants them all to be the best they can. Lilli can often be heard complementing or encouraging them – she understands her position and what needs to happen there and isn’t afraid to work to make it happen – that’s contagious to those around her.” Wilkins is dealing with a shoulder injury at the moment, but she hasn’t let it slow down her production. Injuries are something she simply doesn’t have much regard or time for, she said. “It’s just how stubborn I am,” said Wilkins. “I don’t like inju-

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Lilli Wilkins (#12) casts an intimidating figure across the net from her opponents. ries because they make me feel vulnerable and I always think I can work through it.” Speaking of medical issues, Wilkins aspires to a career as an Intensive Care Unit nurse, a desire which has been with her for as long as she can remember. “I don’t think I’ve ever not wanted to do something medical-related,” she said. But, Wilkins has already been practicing taking care of others – as in her teammates – in her role as de-facto team mom. “It really just happened one day,” said Wilkins. “We were at the Smithson Valley tournament last season and I was organizing everyone’s jerseys, made them dinner and made sure the beauty locker was stocked.” Beauty locker? “We always make sure we have enough backups for everyone as far as hairbands and everything are concerned,” she said. “We don’t really wear a lot of make-up during matches, but (teammate) Ashleigh (Dubbs) is superstitious in that she’ll wear eye shadow for

away matches.” As far as what the future holds after graduation as Wilkins moves on in both her athletic and academic careers, Peterson is confident she will be successful. “She’s going to do great,” she said. “Lilli’s a sponge, willing to learn and soak up as much volleyball as she can – she is going to be challenged and pushed, but that’s a great opportunity for her. There will be up and downs, but she will find her way. She has a strong faith and work ethic, her path and position may change, but it’s nothing she can’t handle.” In fact, Wilikins has never been short on confidence – which is something Peterson learned about her early on in their relationship, she said. “I can remember the first time I met Lilli and her mother as she was moving and we sat in the gym foyer. We had been in communication via email and I had gotten her ‘credentials’ and honestly I thought, ‘Yeah, right I’ll believe she’s that good when I actually see her,’” said Peterson. “But, the

first time I talked to her faceto-face I was blown away by her confidence and composure -- for any high- school kid, but she was only a freshman at the time. Then I saw her play and the way she dove in head first – no hesitation, all out, full force – I knew the credentials were just the tip of the iceberg of what a special player this kid was and I knew we wouldn’t be disappointed and Lilli has never let us down.” Now Wilkins will take all of those qualities to the college level, which is something she has always envisioned, she said. “Playing in college is literally a dream come true for me,” said Wilkins. “I remember watching (University of Texas player) Rachael Adams play and knew I wanted to be like her and now that I’ve been through all the blood and trials, it’s just good to make it there. But, I’m ready to step onto the court for my first season and continue to grow as an athlete.”

Panthers play waiting game for next contest Football squad on back-to-back bye weeks

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When the Liberty Hill Panthers walked off the field after their 40-7 victory in Marble Falls on Oct. 30, they knew they wouldn’t return to the gridiron for competition for 21 days, as back-to-back bye weeks on the schedule have arrived, with the next game on Nov. 20 at home against Navarro. One man who isn’t happy about the break in action is head coach Jeff Walker. “I don’t even like having one bye week, no less two,” he said. “But, it can come at a good time, so everyone can catch their breath.” With that in mind, Walker said his players will get some time away from football over the next couple weeks in order to refresh mentally and physically. “We’re going to give them some time off to focus on other things,” he said. “We’re also going to shorten our practices to about 90 minutes and only work on one specific aspect each day.” The injury bug that bit the Panthers so severely last season has so far stayed away this fall, so the break in between games isn’t coming in as handy from a medical standpoint as last season, said Walker. “We’re pretty healthy right now – knock on wood,” he said. “But, then again, we haven’t been playing full games this season. I wouldn’t have minded having one or two.” Walker was referring to the weak level of competition his team has faced this season – particularly in district play, in which the Panthers have been

victorious by scores of 76-0, 86-0, 42-0 and 40-7, meaning he’s been able to empty his bench and rest starters once these contests have been out of hand, thus limiting the physical toll on his players. Against Marble Falls, senior linebacker Luke Huddleston racked up 14 tackles – tied for the team lead with junior backer Andon Thomas – bested this season by a Panthers defender only by yet another linebacker, Aaron Brewer, who put together a 15-tackle performance against McCallum. Considering Huddleston only had 21 stops on the entire season going into the game, that means 40 percent of his production came against Marble Falls, something he attributed to how the Mustangs were running their plays against the Panthers’ defense. “They kept running traps,” said Huddleston, who currently ranks third on the team with 35 tackles on the season. “If the nose does his job in that situation and blows up the center, the running back will bounce back out to me.” Another number to consider is the fact Huddleston’s weight resides far south of 200 pounds, meaning he’s often outweighed by opponents, but not outsmarted, he said. “For me, it’s all about form tackling,” said Huddleston. “So, my size doesn’t matter as long as you’re fast.” Huddleston added he and his teammates would rather be playing games on the next two Friday nights, but will have to be content with working on their collective game instead. “We need to focus on the little things,” he said. “Fundamen-

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Liberty Hill senior linebacker Luke Huddleston (#58) recorded 14 tackles in the Panthers’ 40-7 away win over Marble Falls on Oct. 30. tals and going over as many happened, as opposed to going ing.” said Walker, particularly of Walker said running the table the Patriots, who are averagdirectly into panic mode over plays as we can in practice.” on defense is a distinct possi- ing over 200 yards per game Liberty Hill’s defense hasn’t the situation. allowed a touchdown since a “We knew we made a mistake bility. through the air this season. “Honestly,” he said. “I’ll be “East View has a real talented garbage-time score in the final on that play,” he said. “So, we minute of the Panthers’ 44-27 just made sure it wasn’t going shocked if we give up another group of kids.” touchdown.” road win over Del Valle all the to happen again.” But, first things, he said. Six weeks later and the PanWalker added his team’s way back on Oct. 2, which is “We have five weeks until something Huddleston and the thers’ defense is poised to not intensity level and focus in- then,” said Walker. “But, as entire defensive unit is fiercely allow even a single point – no creased against Marble Falls coaches we’re always looking proud of, he said. less a touchdown – over the following a week leading up ahead.” “Our goal when we go out course of the entire district to the contest which featured However, he’s not worried there is to not give up a point,” schedule, with only two games members of the Mustangs us- about his players falling into said Huddleston. “It’s the remaining against Navarro and ing social media to stir up a that trap, he said. greatest feeling ever when you Northeast Early College, who war of words – one which his “I don’t know if our kids look completely shut a team down – have both struggled to score squad was going to have no past tomorrow,” said Walker. part engaging in, he said. it’s like nothing else.” this season. “They’re just focused on getWhen Killeen Ellison conHuddleston said he and the “I tell them that every week,” ting the job done.” nected on a 75-yard touch- defense are in no mood to soft- said Walker. “Our kids know Despite the fact the Panthers if you have to go around tell- continue to roll offensively, down pass on the season’s first en up at this point. play from scrimmage in the “We’re going to be more ing people how good you are, Walker is still concerned about season-opener on Sept. 25 – a physical than you are and you’re probably not very good. winning the war up front on a 44-25 Liberty Hill home win we’re never going to give up,” All we want to do is take care consistent basis. – Huddleston said he and his he said. “We’re going to make of our business, beat you, “We talk about establishing fellow defenders simple made games like a toughman contest shake your hand after the game the line of scrimmage on the a mental note of what had just and we’re the last one stand- and move on.” defense’s side,” he said. “I As for what lies beyond the think we were better this past district schedule in the post- week (against Marble Falls), DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL season, the Panthers, as Dis- but it seems like we’ll play one R.V. Fuel | Bottle Filling | Gas Piping in Home trict 14 champions, will face or two good downs and then Propane Tanks | Grills & Replacement Parts | Gas Logs the fourth-place team from lose focus for the next four or District 13, which appears as five. If I knew what it was that if the opponent will be either causes it, I would’ve already East View or Glenn and the fixed it.” fact both can throw the ball All that being said, Walker’s effectively worries Walker, he not concerned about being the said. cowboy who leads his horse to “In the first round, we’re go- water, but can’t make it drink Murray Hoggarth • Wanda Hoggarth ing to see a really good passing 2601 S. Hwy 183 | Leander, TX 78641 See FOOTBALL, Page 12 team and that concerns me,”

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, November 5, 2020

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Band students were recognized for their contributions to the group during a ceremony at Panther Stadium Oct. 30. The band performed for families and friends for the only time this season.

Band

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recommended,” said Perrin. “The kids really worked hard through the whole thing, and the limitations were massive. We still came up with a good product.” Despite his usually optimistic outlook, Perrin couldn’t help but feel doubt as the school year began. “If you’d have asked me in August, I would’ve said two weeks, and we’re done. All the reports from other schools that started before we did were two weeks and done,” he said. “It didn’t happen here, and I’m so glad we’ve been able to go all the way through this. It’s been smoother sailing for us than many other programs, so I’m just thankful for that.” With an hour until the performance, the energy and excitement in the band hall were palpable as students made sure they had everything necessary to pull off their program. As preparations continued, junior trombone section leader Kaitlin Homan said this performance was vital to the growth and experience of the freshmen.

Tennis

“This is the culmination of everything we’ve been working for this year. This year has been a real turning point for the band. We moved into the new district, and we’re really trying to take on the approach of not being upset with the COVID stuff, instead, looking at it in a positive light. I mean, Silver Linings is the name of the show,” she said. “I’m not nervous because this is in front of my family and friends, and we’re not in front of the big stage. I’m still going to try and treat it like that because that’s what we will be experiencing in the next couple of years.” Once on the field, with 30 minutes to go, the band and color guard began running through their performance as parents and spectators filled the socially distanced stands. Once the performance started, moving in synchronicity, each section of the band and the color guard put on a show filled with weeks of pent-up emotion and energy. The band wove through each movement seamlessly as the lights shone down, and the eager crowd

Continued from Page 9

According to Rhoden, the proof is in the reactions she’s gotten from those within and outside the program. “I evaluate myself from the feedback I’ve received. I enjoy reading body language from my players – I received so many warm and happy smiles this season – I love this,” said Rhoden. “I appreciate the positive feedback I’ve received from the player reflections, from players stopping by my office and telling me how much fun they’re having, from the feedback from Coach Davidson, from the parents, the booster board and from (Athletic Director) Coach (Jeff) Walker, (Principal ) Mr. (Jonathan) Bever and the staff at LHHS. Everyone has been so encouraging and supportive. I know my job as a coach is a role of service – I’m here to serve, to teach and encourage. The feedback I’ve received thus far leads me to believe I’m doing my job well and I’m having so much fun. I look forward to learning new things each season.” In fact, Rhoden gleans much gratification from getting young athletes to buy into what she’s selling and then have them reap the rewards. “The most gratifying thing for me is seeing players grow in their self-confidence,” she said.. “I enjoy it when they learn to trust what I’m saying, put it into action, then enjoy the next level of tennis even more.” Speaking of the next level, in addition to being a high-

school coach for the first time in her career, Rhoden also had the challenge of navigating uncharted waters as the Panthers moved up to Class 5A competition for the first time – although it certainly wasn’t an obsession for those involved, she said. “I’m super-proud of the players,” said Rhoden. “We didn’t focus too much on the fact we moved from 4A to 5A, we just focused on our own games. We focused on working hard every day, on our weaknesses and worked on making them less obvious. We focused on building each other up in a fun, positive environment and on becoming a high-functioning family. To keep the momentum going, we’ll keep doing what the players enjoy and stay focused on working hard.” As far as her relationship with Davidson, that’s also been a point of light – albeit an unexpected one. “The most surprising thing for me was learning how much Coach Davidson and I have in common,” she said. “We like so many of the same things. Our journeys have been so similar. Although our biggest difference has been she prefers cooler weather and I prefer the summer heat. It’s been so fun getting to know her – it’s been an easy friendship to develop and such a blessing to me.” However, now it’s onward and upward for the program, as the spring season is already looming on the horizon, which means there is much work to be done in not only maintain-

Marble Falls “Our defense has the potential to be really good,” he said. “If we can stop the big play down the field, we could be lightsout.” Entering the game, Walker was concerned with how his team – particularly the offensive line – had been performing despite dominant results on the scoreboard, one which was somewhat relieved, but not yet completely, he said. “Tonight we got better,” said Walker. “I think we came off the ball better and showed

looked on. Band members were met with an eruption of applause as they basked in their moment of glory. Following the performance, an emotional Perrin thanked the crowd for showing up and supporting the kids. Perrin spoke of the character and hard work the band put into the preparation and performance, discussing the trying obstacles they worked together to overcome. Several students were presented with awards recognizing their work over the weeks leading up to the Friday performance. Recognized were freshmen Gabe Marler, Rachel Ware, Zach Reynolds, and Cole Labay; sophomore Noah Graf, juniors Bailey Eells, and Melody Willard; and seniors Abbey Byrns and Kris Kelley. Parents joined their musicians on the field, congratulating the exhausted and exhilarated band students. Senior drum major Breely Bodine, with excitement strong in her voice, shared her pride in the performance. “The most exciting thing

ing positive momentum provided by the fall season, but in building on it – both mentally and physically. “We rolled out the off season schedule two days after our bi-district loss. We’ll be focused on strengthening our bodies to benefit our tennis performance and we’ll incorporate running for endurance, total body workouts, upper body, lower body and yoga in addition to time on the court,” said Rhoden. “The players will have more time to work with their private-lesson coaches, take classes and play in tournaments on their own. We’ll continue team-building activities and also work on getting organized for our second annual holiday tournament, which will be held on Dec. 5 at LHHS and is open to the public.” With all the boxes on the list checked off, Rhoden said she has no regrets and looks forward to continuing the process of building a successful program – one in which regardless of results, experiences will be had which will be remembered moving forward. “I’ve learned much and I don’t think I would do anything differently. I feel I gave my best every day and I’m very happy how the first season played out,” she said. “There wasn’t one shining moment for me this season, but I’ll cherish the joy on the players’ faces and the positive feedback the most. We’re united, we’re stronger together and we’re on a mission to make fun memories.”

Continued from Page 10

more fight than we have been – the guys came out with more energy.” Liberty Hill (6-0, 4-0) will now have consecutive bye weeks in the schedule before returning to action at home against Navarro on Nov. 20, so it was critical for Walker and his players to play well in order to carry positive momentum forward over the next three weeks without any Friday night competition – and perhaps get a bit of rest, he said.

“We’re going to give them a little time off,” said Walker. “Grades come out next week, so we’ll give them some time to sort that out.” But, that doesn’t mean he wants them to lose sight of what ultimately lies down the road. “We need them to stay focused and to be smart and take care of themselves,” he said. “We can’t take even one step back.”

was this being my senior year, and this being our last performance, we did it. We didn’t know if we were going to have one,” said Bodine. “Silver Linings means finding the good in everything, and we found the good in the situation that we’re in with this pandemic. I think it was a really representative and important show. It was surprising and nice to see this many people here.” Fellow senior drum major, Veronika Hyska, discussed the difficulty of putting together their program and her amazement at accomplishing their goals in the face of so many obstacles. “This is my senior year, and everything went according to plan. I saw the energy of the band. It was amazing. I’m so glad to have relationships with everyone,” said Hyska. “Last time, best time is what we say here. We live for us, and this program is something I really enjoyed during my four years of high school. It’s amazing to finally finish things out like this.” Senior Piccolo player Kier-

Veterans

I’m looking forward to seeing how it continues to develop in the future.” However, despite its growth, Liberty Hill still remains the same place where he was grounded with the morals and values that have served him well over the years since and he never forgets the principles he learned all those years ago from not only growing up here, but being a member of the Panthers’ football program, he said. “The lessons I learned in this small town have helped me through my career,” he said. “My first exposure to discipline, teamwork and camaraderie began in the weight room and on the gym floor during football offseason.” As for any local youth his appearance may inspire, Magallon enthusiastically accepts that aspect of his job description. “I gladly embrace the responsibility of being a role model,” said Magallon. “I had success early on in my career because of the great leaders and mentors that invested time in me. It’s my duty to leave the Armed Forces better than when I entered and that begins with the next generation of sailors, soldiers, Marines and airmen.” As for the message he would deliver to them, he believes it’s beneficial to step out of one’s comfort zone in order to conquer obstacles on the way to success, he said. “My advice is to never shy away from discomfort,” said Magallon. “I’ve learned the most valuable lessons by stepping into challenges.” Magallon said he’s excited for the opportunity to be a

Football

as far as his constant message to his players falling on deaf ears is concerned, although his approach has changed over the years. “Sometimes you can get on a kid and they’ll respond, but

stun Miller said the performance was vital to the band and was something that the community needed during difficult times. “It was very nerve-wracking and surreal. With all the lights and stuff, it felt like a movie. A lot of it was so amazing. The warm-ups were the hardest part. I was so nervous and scared of messing up,” Miller said. “It was so important for us to do this because it brings in the community, and it gives so much positivity. I think it was amazing. I was surprised at the turnout. I was marching up and thought, oh my gosh, that is a lot of people.” In his senior year, Colton Harbour is used to performing under the Friday night lights in front of a large crowd. The drum major was overwhelmed by the turnout, feeling the support of his community. “To see this number of people felt great. It was difficult because we had so many restrictions, and we had an original show then had to come up with a completely new one. With new restrictions, we also

couldn’t start until after band camp, and that’s when we usually do most of our work,” said Harbour. “I think this was important for a lot of new members and for our older members, especially the seniors because they got that final performance in front of a crowd. The freshmen got the opportunity to experience something close to competition.” Amid the pandemic, planning ahead for almost anything is difficult. After pulling off the program successfully, Perrin feels the best way to approach the upcoming months is to plan, as they usually would, adjusting as they need to. “We’re going to break out some Christmas music, and we’re going to try and program a Christmas concert, whether we do it outside at the stadium or in the parking lot,” said Perrin. “We’re planning on going to the UIL concert and sight-reading, whatever that looks like. We’re taking the same approach we did in the summer. We’re going to plan for it to be regular then adjust for whatever happens.”

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Giovanny Magallon, who has served 13 years in the US Navy, returns to his hometown of Liberty Hill to speak to the community on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. (Courtesy Photo) part of his hometown’s Veterans Day celebration. “I’m looking forward to see a town come together in patriotism to honor the heroic men and women that sacrificed on our behalf,” he said. “I will also enjoy listening to the war stories of our veterans that fought before me and left behind a legacy of courage and pride.” As for his famous kick, Magallon is humble about the part he played in the Panthers’ championship season his senior year – with a little help

from others, he said. “When I visit my mother’s home, I see the newspaper clippings of that game and remember what an amazing experience that was,” said Magallon. “Although it was a great moment in the game, I was one of 11 players on the field for that play and I did my job just like everyone else did throughout the entire game. As far as people nowadays talking about the game, I’m more often reminded I was just the kicker.”

Continued from Page 11 others will just shut down,” said Walker. “I think back during my first stint here (as offensive coordinator under former head coach Jerry Vance), I was more the intense, tell-it-how-it-is coach.

But, there’s no doubt, I’ve mellowed a bit since then and I’m in a different role now (as athletic director and head coach).”

LHISD Board gets 2 new faces

Thursday, November 5, 2020

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor In one race that provided a surprise result, and a second that proved a landslide, voters from across Liberty Hill ISD selected two new names to join the school board. Challenger Terry Smith, running for the second time in as many years, beat Board President Clint Stephenson to win the race for Place 1, which surprised even him. “I was kind of shocked to begin with,” Smith said. “As it set in I realized I have a lot of work to do along with the other board members. I’m looking forward to working with other board members to make things better for the students because the children are always first. I’m excited to be a part of the school board and I look forward to working with any and all members.” In Place 2, the win was out of reach for two of the candidates – Antonio Canas and Dana Munguia – as soon as early voting totals were made public. With the first returns, Kendall Carter had a 2500vote lead, and finished with

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

55 percent of the vote in the three-person race. “It is surprising how many people turned out to vote for school board, almost 9,000 people,” Carter said. “That’s great that that many people’s voices are being heard.” Smith ﬁnished with 4,619 votes and a 356-vote edge in the win. In 2019, Smith garnered only 23 votes in a three-candidate race won by Megan Parsons. The vote total among the three candidates in that contest was only 4 percent of this year’s total. “I really don’t know,” Smith said when asked what made the difference this year versus last year. “I really didn’t do a whole lot of campaigning. I’ve talked to some people, mainly people who are the (parents) of who my kids hang around with, then I talk at church because I volunteer with the youth groups. I’m appreciative of everyone who came out and voted for me, because if it wasn’t for them, I’m not in this position right now. Maybe the people of Liberty Hill wanted a new face to have a seat,

or maybe they wanted to see what the new guy could do.” Smith is retired from the U.S. Army and has been a resident within LHISD for just under three years, with two children in Liberty Hill schools. He made it clear again in his second run for the Board his focus is on security issues, speciﬁcally pertaining to an incident involving his son in September 2018, but wants the community to know he is about much more than the one issue. “Without talking to me then that’s just from the outside looking in and they don’t know me,” Smith said about anyone who might see him as a one-issue candidate. “My motivation to run for school board again was, in the overall scheme of things, I wanted to try to improve what I saw in the school district that could possibly retooled. I’m a big fan of following the rules and a big fan of policy enforcement and one standard across the board. If people are saying he’s just still mad and has this one issue on his mind, I would invite those people to sit down

and have a conversation with me. Everybody has critics, and I probably have a lot more than other people on the board.” Smith’s involvement in the district has been a challenge due to a ban from campus following an outburst at Burden when the incident occurred with his son, but he is now a frequent visitor to the campus and more involved again. He believes that involvement and his military background make him a good choice for the School Board. “As I’ve been going throughout my day it has been in the back of my mind wondering what am I going to feel like,” he said. “I can’t really feel like anything until I am appointed and sitting there on the school board and helping make those important decisions that impact the lives of the faculty, administration, staff and students.” Carter’s win among three new candidates trying to replace long-time Board member Clay Cole who chose not to seek reelection was a surprise more in the margin of victory. The race saw 8,731 ballots

Gleason unseats Chody in Sheriff’s race

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer As polls closed on election night 2020, Democrat challenger Mike Gleason sealed a win over Republican incumbent Robert Chody by 32,501 votes to become the new sheriff of Williamson County. Gleason earned 56.06 percent for a total of 152,494 votes over Chody’s 43.94 percent and 119,540 votes. The Democratic challenger is the first Democrat in more than two decades to hold county-wide office. In a race that saw both candidates fling harsh accusations at one another, Gleason was able to overcome Chody’s almost $1.2 million in campaign spending. The sheriff-elect fought off Chody’s claims that he was supported by anti-law enforcement groups. Gleason’s campaign is reported to

have spent less than $17,000, with a total of $20,000 in political contributions. A law enforcement veteran in Williamson County for more than 20 years, Gleason’s platform centered on the restoration of the reputation of the sheriff’s office. “It was a well-oiled machine, and my opponent came in and said he was going to keep going in that direction,” Gleason said during the campaign. “That’s what he promised to everybody, and when he won the Primary, he lied to everybody. Chody lied the entire time. He used everybody to get elected and now has summarily come in and fired, let go, run off, or made life miserable for almost 300 people. Half of the workforce is gone.” Chody proved to be a controversial figure, with multiple scandals during his term as

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sheriff. In September, Williamson County District Attorney Shawn Dick announced a grand jury indicted Chody on a felony charge of evidence-tampering over the in-custody death of Javier Ambler. Over the summer, county commissioners asked that Chody step down, but he refused. As part of Gleason’s mission to clean up what he refers to as a mess his opponent created, he intends to bring back many of the employees previously let go. A vital part of the sheriff-elect’s plan moving forward is the restoration and reopening of the Williamson County Police Training Academy, shut down under Chody. “I’ve got a plan, and I am going to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and having the court fund a position,” said Gleason during the campaign. “Even if I have to give

Democratic challenger Mike Gleason unseated Robert Chody with a 32,501-vote advantage to become Williamson County Sheriff. up a training position so their employee can come to work in the academy and keep an eye on us. We’ll do everything by the book.” Gleason will be sworn into ofﬁce on Jan. 1, 2021.

cast, making the two races decided Tuesday the first and second-highest vote totals in any LHISD election, including the 2018 bond election that included 8,014 votes. The last two board elections – in 2018 and 2019 – resulted in only 690 and 417 votes respectively. His involvement in the district on many levels is what Carter believes put him over the top in his race. “My tenure in Liberty Hill and investment in Liberty Hill donating my time proved that people want me to continue to do that,” Carter said. “This is not about me or any one specific person, it’s about the future of the Liberty Hill school district, the kids, the administration and how we move forward. With the growing number of families moving to Liberty Hill that’s going to be paramount over the next five, six or seven years.” There may be a steep learning curve as a new Board member, but Carter knows he has to be ready quickly to deal with key issues. “I think that the process of

Page 13

being fully acclimated to any new position is probably a 1218 month process, but I say getting up to about 80 percent knowledge is probably achievable fairly quickly given the fact that I was on the bond committee previously,” he said. “I feel like I’m somewhat up to speed but there’s obviously a learning curve.” The support Carter received form voters brings with it a responsibility and accountability he said he does not take lightly. “I look at the vote as an investment in the community and an investment in the future of the district,” he said. “So I want people to know I am available if people have questions, concerns or just want to reach out and share their opinion. I look at it as my responsibility to listen and understand and help make the best decisions for LHISD moving forward that make the most sense for the kids.”

Free entrance to parks Nov. 8 for Veterans Day AUSTIN— In honor of both active and retired military, daily entrance fees at Texas State Parks will be waived for all day-use visitors Sunday, Nov. 8. “The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas State Parks are proud to honor the men and women that serve our country in the military,” said Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks. “What better way to celebrate their service and dedication than by spending the day at a beautiful Texas State Park.” Anyone planning a trip to a Texas State Park should keep in mind that parks are operating at a limited capacity, so reserving a day pass in advance is highly recommended since some parks are expect-

ed to reach their capacity limit. Day passes can be reserved online though the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or over the phone by calling (512) 389-8900. When purchasing a hunting and ﬁshing license, buyers can add a donation of $1, $5, $10 or $20 to help support the Veterans Commission’s Veterans Assistance Fund. Donations to the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) program provide grants to veteran service organizations and nonproﬁt charitable institutions that assist veterans and their families at the community level throughout Texas.

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MAYOR

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

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City staff, ultimately moving on from former City Administrator Greg Boatright and not replacing him for nearly 18 months, despite promising in August 2018 that a new administrator would be hired. Instead, Hall assumed the duties of administrator, which ultimately led to the termination or non-renewal of contracts for ďŹ ve more City employees. In March, the City hired Lacie Hale as Chief Operating OfďŹ cer in lieu of hiring an administrator, but on Oct. 13 Hale was elevated to City Administrator. During Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time as Mayor, the City has spent liberally on capital projects, often seeing them expand beyond their original budget. The City currently faces a pair of lawsuits, one from former Police Chief Maverick Campbell and another over the efďŹ&#x201A;uent released by the wastewater plant. Hall has also been dogged during his term with allegations of inappropriate behavior and intoxication at City events, and angry outbursts in the ofďŹ ce from a number of former

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City employees The City Council also approved salaries for the Mayor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $40,000 per year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Council members at $12,000 per year. The salaries do not take effect until each position is up for reelection, meaning Council members Tony DeYoung and Kathy Canady will each receive the salary ďŹ rst as both were unopposed on the ballot Tuesday. Branigan has stated she will not accept the budgeted salary for the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position. The budget, and capital project spending were tops on Braniganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list of things to dive into immediately. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible I will request a spending freeze so we can straighten out what happened to the budget,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, we need to get a group together to comb through the budget to ďŹ nd where it went wrong. The second thing will be that we will stop the current construction projects and reevaluate those because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m seeing almost a million dollars in debt service being added to our budget and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wiggle

room in our current budget that I can see, certainly not a million dollars in debt service.â&#x20AC;? What will also likely change fairly quickly is the supervisory structure for City employees, where Hall played a key day-to-day role, something Branigan has no plans to do as

Mayor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is going to have to evolve over time,â&#x20AC;? Branigan said of the transition. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Of course we have a City Administrator but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very new. It is possible we will have to engage some consultants to ďŹ nd the best way forward with this. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t intend to sit in City Hall and

Thursday, November 5, 2020

micromanage people, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not what I am about.â&#x20AC;? The race was not only characterized by the highest ever turnout for the City, but it proved the most costly as Hall raised $19,300 in his reelection bid to Braniganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $1,380. The City Council must now determine how to implement

new three-year terms, which passed as a proposition Tuesday with 62.5 percent of the vote, 735-441. The ďŹ rst positions to have the new threeyear terms will be those on the May 2021 ballot that includes Place 1 (Steve McIntosh), Place 3 (Gram Lankford), and Place 5 (Liz Rundzieher).

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â&#x20AC;˘ no payments for 90 days â&#x20AC;˘ payments as low as $199/month â&#x20AC;˘ home of the lifetime engine warranty!

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10620 W SH-29, Liberty Hill (512) 778-6111 BennyBoydLibertyHill.com