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2021

Volume 34, Issue 7

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January 7, 2021 | 50 Cents

Chody files lawsuit against Gleason, claims election fraud CHARLES SCHWERTNER State Senator, R-Georgetown

Schwertner weighs in on new legislative session

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor State Sen. Charles Schwertner has seen a number of Texas legislative sessions come and go, and he never hesitates to mention going into a session that the primary responsibility of the body that meets every two years is to craft and pass a budget.

“That sometimes is easier than other times,” said the Senator who has been a member of the legislature for five sessions and is about to begin his sixth.

“There are a lot of unknowns heading into this session. One is what our outlays are going to be, the costs associated with COVID, the costs associated with unemployment, increased people on Medicaid?”

Seeing that likely increased strain on the expense side because of all the impacts COVID has had on the state, the Republican from Georgetown who represents the 10 counties in Senate District 5 –

See SCHWERTNER, Page A6

JOHN CARTER US Rep., R-Georgetown

Chaos at Capitol as Congress attempts to certify votes

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor On Tuesday, District 31 U.S. Rep. John Carter announced he would support the objection planned by an estimated 60 Republicans in the House and Senate during the Electoral

See CARTER, Page A5 ©2021 The Liberty Hill Independent

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

#WalkerTough

After pulling out a win in a shootout with Pioneer, Panther head coach Kent Walker congratulates his team and honors his brother – Panther head coach Jeff Walker – who passed away earlier this season. The Panthers have dedicated their playoff run to their former coach, and have reached the UIL State Semifinal, where they will play Crosby in Bryan Friday for a berth in the 5A Division 2 State Championship game Jan. 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. See more Sports in Section B.

Powell brings new perspective to EDC

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor When Matt Powell settles in behind his desk in the Liberty Hill Economic Development Corporation (EDC) office each day, he is reminded of the great opportunity in front of him.

“There’s no denying the incredible opportunity that is laid out for Liberty Hill,” said the newly hired Executive Director. “I couldn’t be more pleased to serve in this role.

It’s a real honor.”

While he may be new to the full-time scene at Liberty Hill City Hall, Powell is no stranger to business ownership or municipal government. It is experience in both that makes his perspective unique.

“I’m going to do my best with my experience to make suggestions and recommendations, and to carry out the day-to-day operations, but ultimately it will be the EDC Board – and in some cases the City Council – that will provide that policy and direc-

tion,” he said.

Most recently, Powell was the owner of Powell Municipal, a consulting firm for Texas cities. He had contracted for work with the City of Liberty Hill, and was later named interim Executive Director of the EDC. In addition to that private sector experience, Powell brings with him 13 years of elected service, both as a member of the Cedar Park City Council and later as that city’s Mayor.

He recognizes the growth arriving in Liberty Hill today as similar to what he saw in Cedar Park nearly 15 years ago.

“If you look at the projections that the school district is making with their demographics reports the growth is definitely here,” Powell said.

He was able to play a key role in Cedar Park development as business growth moved out from Austin, and he sees similar growth currently in Leander, with Liberty Hill up next in that path.

“There are things we need to

do as that wave approaches Liberty Hill,” Powell said. “I did find myself in a leadership position in Cedar Park when that wave hit and there were a lot of things we did in terms of making sure the infrastructure was in place.”

The to-do list is long and constantly evolving for an EDC in a fast-growth area, but Powell wants to take a methodical approach as he begins his journey here.

“The EDC Board has stated an interest in doing a true strategic plan that has short, medium and long-term goals,” he said. “I have already begun putting together a structure for that.”

That work is likely to include defining the EDC mission and vision, and making sure EDC and City goals are aligned.

The first priority for Powell is information gathering.

“I would like to get as good a snapshot of the current state of business in Liberty Hill as we can because that will help us determine how we can

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor As Liberty Hill enters the second quarter of its fiscal year, questions remain about the previous year’s budget that could have an impact on the current budget.

To date, there are still no public documents available that show the fiscal year-end revenues and expenses for the 2019-2020 budget that ended in September, despite written requests for information by The Independent, and a request by new Mayor Liz Branigan to review the current budget. A review of the current budget could show updated information on the year-end totals from last year.

On Dec. 8, City Administrator Lacie Hale sent copies of the City revenue and expense reports for the first two months of the current fiscal year – October and November.

These are the same reports the City told The Independent in May 2020 did not exist in its response to an open re-

cords request.

At that time, the City responded that there were no records responsive to the request, adding in an e-mailed response, “This report does not exist, and the City has not been creating this report since the current Finance Director started with the City. Currently the City Council receives a monthly financial form and not the revenue and expense report that was previously presented by the former Finance Director.”

Former Mayor Rick Hall routinely asserted that those reports were not available, and in Council member Kathy Canady’s response to recent questions from The Independent regarding the reports, she only said those reports were not currently used by the City.

“I have not asked to see any financial reports other than those currently utilized by the city in accordance with the accepted reports that our finance director, auditors and general guidelines require. The former Finance Director took it

upon herself to prepare and provide those reports. They are optional and not required as part of any monthly reporting requirement.”

There is no current report, provided to Council members as part of their meeting agenda packet, that shows monthly revenue and expense information.

When asked why the City has not made those former reports available as requested, Canady wrote, “If you are not asking for reports that the city currently generates then they can not provide what is not generated. These reports have not been generated since September of 2018. Required reports are submitted to Council on a monthly and quarterly basis.”

Not only has the information not been available through any monthly reports, the current budget – voted on and approved by Council in September – does not provide any accurate insight into the revenue or expenses for the previous fiscal year.

MATT POWELL EDC Executive Director

better diversify,” Powell said.

“The first step is going to be identification, and one of the things I am really looking forward to doing is better understanding what businesses are in and around Liberty Hill right now.”

As that community business picture comes into focus, there will be a review of EDC programs in place as well.

“The Board has let me know that everything is on the

See POWELL, Page A5

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Former Williamson County Sheriff Robert Chody, who lost his reelection bid in November, has filed a lawsuit against new Sheriff Mike Gleason, claiming there was election fraud.

In the lawsuit obtained by The Independent, Chody claims that “because of so many material mistakes, illegalities, and/or fraud which occurred in the administrating and tabulation of the election results for Early Voting and Election Day Voting for the Williamson County Sheriff Election on November 3, 2020, that the true outcome of the election cannot be ascertained.”

The lawsuit, supported by affidavits from poll watcher Cathy Jaster and Marcia Strickler, a field tech, points to a glitch that caused voters to receive the wrong ballots on Election Day. Jaster also claimed that she saw boxes containing duplicate ballots, but was told they were not processed.

Along with the glitch Strickler claims she witnessed Gleason and his wife Alison at the Leander Public Library location, within range of the Wi-Fi hotspot.

“I was able to see inside his vehicle; that’s how close I was. It appeared he had a laptop in the passenger side of his vehicle,” said Strickler in her affidavit. “I spoke to him and asked him a few questions and continued. I was curious if he was close enough to hit the hotspot inside the library. So I checked my settings and was still able to access the hotspot from where his vehicle was parked. I’m not saying he or anyone else was accessing that hotspot, but he was

See CHODY, Page A6

City budget questions persist

“Any questions should have been asked during the budget process and subsequent public hearing. Just because we are now utilizing a different approach does not mean it is wrong – just a different methodology from former administrations.”

~ Kathy Canady City Council Member

The draft budget provided to Council in August for consideration – which is the same budget posted to the City’s website after approval in September – is incomplete in terms of revenues and expenses for the previous year.

For example, under tax revenues, the approved budget shows $124,719.91 in revenues on a previous budgeted tax revenue estimate of $1.88 million. Under franchise fees, 2019-2020 revenues show only $4,144.32 against an estimated revenue of $303,050.

In all, the revenue summary shows only $447,575 coming in against $4.2 million budgeted. It is impossible for

these numbers to be accurate, but it means the Council approved a budget without even considering actual revenues to date in August 2020, much less projected year-end numbers. These numbers are typically used to help project revenue numbers for the upcoming year.

The same issues are evident in the budget on the expense side. The report shows personnel expenses of only $63,629.18 – a number that should have covered a minimum of nine months of administrative personnel costs.

The budget for administrative

See BUDGET, Page A6

Page A2

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS ON A PROPOSED STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LIBERTY HILL, TEXAS, AND WILLIAMSON COUNTY UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 17

The City Council of Liberty Hill, Texas (“City”) will conduct two public hearings on a proposed Strategic Partnership Agreement (“SPA”) between the City and Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 17 (“District”). The territory of the District includes that certain 493.87-acre tract of land (the “Property”) generally located east and west of Ronald Reagan Blvd. north of Highway 29 in the City’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

The public hearings will be in the City’s Council Chambers located at 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas. The first public hearing is set to convene at 6:30 p.m. on January 11, 2021. The second public hearing is set to convene at 6:30 p.m. on January 25, 2021.

The purpose of each hearing is to provide an opportunity for interested persons to present testimony or evidence regarding the proposed agreement. Under the proposed SPA, the territory of the District would be annexed for limited purposes as soon as practicable. The District would continue to possess and exercise powers and functions provided by law. The City would not annex the District for full municipal purposes during the 30-year term of the SPA. The SPA contains other provisions, and it would bind each owner and future owner of land included within the territory of the District on the date the SPA becomes effective. Copies of the proposed SPA (including a metes-and-bounds description of the territory of the District) may be obtained prior to the hearing from the office of the City Secretary on the first floor of the City Hall located at 926 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas. Due to COVID-19, prior pick-up arrangements will need to be made by calling City Hall at (512) 778-5449 or emailing Nancy Sawyer at nsawyer@libertyhilltx.gov.

Thursday, January 7, 2021

OBITUARY Edena Bray Harris Alma Edena Bray Harris age 91, was born February 16, 1929 in Brownwood, Texas to Fred Otis Bray and Alma Mabel Strohm, passed from this life and into the arms of her loving Savior on January 2, 2021 in Georgetown, Texas.

Edena spent her early years in Bangs, TX and graduated from Bangs High School where she met her future husband. After a five-year courtship she married Robert Lee Harris March 18, 1951 in Bangs, Texas. Edena graduated from McMurry University, in Abilene, Texas with a Bachelor of Arts Degree May 22, 1951, majoring in Religious Education.

After moving to Austin, she worked at the Methodist Student Union at UT Austin and later, after having three children, as a Secretary for Texas Electric Cooperatives.

She began playing the organ for the Methodist Church in Bangs, Texas at the age of 14 and spent more than 46 years playing the organ for Leander

United Methodist Church and Liberty Hill United Methodist Church (now Cross Tracks Church). She passed her retirement years doing needlepoint, counted cross stitch, gardening, reading books, Bible Study Fellowship (BSF), singing in the church choir and cuddling with her cats Kitty Kohl and Tommy.

Edena was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Robert Lee (Bob) Harris and her parents Fred and Alma Bray.

She leaves behind son Robert A. Harris and wife Jan, daughter Sharyl Kincaid and husband Mark, daughter Shelley Curtsinger and husband Brian.

Grandchildren Brandon Harris and wife Amanda, Dustin Kincaid and wife Caitlyn, Kelly Kincaid and wife Jolee, Dustin Curtsinger and wife Ashley, and Katherine Curtsinger.

Great-grandchildren Makenzie and Meredith Harris, Jackson and Emilee Kincaid, Caylee and Wyatt Curtsinger, and

many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff of The Reserve at Georgetown and Altus Hospice for the kindness and loving care they have shown Edena.

The family will have a private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cross Tracks Church, 101 Church Street, Liberty Hill, TX 78642.

Liberty Hill Police Blotter

Prepared by Liberty Hill Police Department Week of Dec. 28-Jan. 3, 2021 The Liberty Hill Police Department responded to or self-initiated a total of 449 incidents resulting in nine cases, 21 citations, 22 warnings and one arrest.

Weekly Highlights: - On Dec. 28 at approximately 11:04 AM, officers responded to Hillcrest Lane for a disturbance.

- On Dec. 28 at approximately 12:34 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident.

- On Dec. 28 at approximately 4:57 PM, officers responded to the 25000 block of Ronald Reagan Blvd. to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Dec. 28 at approximately 10:15 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for a prior accident.

- On Dec. 29 at approximately 9:23 AM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for a theft complaint.

- On Dec. 29 at approximately 12:21 PM, officers responded to Agave Azul Way for a disturbance.

- On Dec. 29 at approximately 9:09 PM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W. SH 29 for a traffic hazard.

- On Dec. 30 at approximately 2:02 AM, officers responded to Bailey Lane for suspicious activity.

- On Dec. 30 at approximately 7:22 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for a suspicious activity.

- On Dec. 30 at approximately 11:04 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident.

- On Dec. 30 at approximately 12:26 PM, officers responded

to the 7000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Dec. 30 at approximately 6:24 PM, officers responded to Agave Azul Way for a wellbeing check.

- On Dec 30 at approximately 5:56 AM, officers responded to the 1000 block of US 183 for an accident.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 6:00 AM, officers responded to the 100 block of US 183 for an accident.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 10:25 AM, officers responded to the 16000 block of W. SH 29, to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Dec. 31, at approximately 2:50 PM, officers responded to Agave Azul Way for a harassment complaint.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 9:07 PM, officers responded to Barrington Drive for an ordinance violation.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 10:51 PM, officers responded to Parryi Cove for an ordinance violation.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 10:57 PM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for an ordinance violation.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 11:07 PM, officers responded to the 2000 block of RM 1869 for an ordinance violation.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 11:10 PM, officers responded to Falcon Way for an ordinance violation.

- On Dec. 31 at approximately 11: 17 PM, officers responded to Old Glory Trail for an ordinance violation.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately 12:05 AM, officers responded to Stadium Drive for an ordinance violation.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately

12:41 AM, officers responded to the 16000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately 3:26 AM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W. SH 29 for suspicious activity.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately 8:04 AM, officers responded to the 2000 block of RM 1869 for an alarm call.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately 12:12 PM, officers responded to Agave Azul Way for a wellbeing check.

- On Jan. 1 at approximately 1:29 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for a road rage incident.

- On Jan. 2 at approximately 6:27 AM, officers responded to the 4000 US 183 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Jan. 2 at approximately 11:35 AM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for a theft complaint.

- On Jan. 2, at approximately 10:39 PM, officers responded to the 2000 block of RM 1869 for an accident.

- On Jan. 3 at approximately 11:17 AM, officers responded to American Way for a dangerous animal.

- On Jan. 3 at approximately 2:41 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident.

- On Jan. 3 at approximately 6:24 PM, officers responded to the 700 block of US 183 for a traffic hazard.

- On Jan. 3 at approximately 8:59 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an ordinance violation.

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OPINION Throwback Thursday

For better or worse, things keep a changin’

By JAMES WEAR Columnist There’s an old country saying that “you know when your neighbor is too close when you can’t spit off your front porch without somebody seeing you,” and while I might have revised a portion of that old expression given I still consider The Independent a family newspaper regardless of what we read some of our politicians are up to, it does pretty well sum up how this senior citizen views the population explosion we’ve been experiencing over the last decade or more.

This writer grew up with expressions like “Brown Lane” when the county road just west of us had no official name or number, when “Five Way” was not the name of a business but rather simply referred to a location just north of our homeplace where five roads intersected, and “Green’s Corner” referred to a location along US 183 about five miles south of Briggs where the Green family had lived for a number of years.

There was also a “Senorita Avenue” on US 183 as well, and I don’t believe there was anything racial to the nickname.

When I first began covering the Liberty Hill community back in the mid-1980s, the high school was so small that one would dial the same phone number in trying to reach the principal or the head football coach out at the field house next to the football field. Sometimes it did take a bit of patience in tracking down Charlie Braun and what words of wisdom he would have to share with Panther gridiron fans, but of course, it was always worth it.

Coach Braun was always honest and to the point.

And then, as a young member of the Liberty Hill Volunteer Fire Department, I had to get

This portion of a Williamson County map from 1971 illustrates Liberty Hill and surrounding area, and identifies where residents lived. (Courtesy Photo)

used to such expressions describing directions to the fire we were enroute to “is just a mile or so past the old so-andso place that burned down last year.” This before the 9-1-1 address system came to be, and even then, the old way of describing locations would sometimes come into play…I actually figured I had arrived as a member when, perhaps 10 years into my membership of the department, I found myself

giving directions utilizing the “old so-and-so place.”

Of course, the growth is all over. In 1920, the year my mother was born, Williamson County had right at 43,000 people; in 1960, when I had reached my third birthday, I was one of 35,000 as the population had actually decreased.

Fifty years ago, when I was in the sixth grade, the county population numbered 37,305.

The current population is es-

timated at about 614,000.

Liberty Hill’s estimated population now stands right at 3,000 and it is among the 500 largest communities in Texas. The huge increase just over the past few years is perhaps why I was fascinated when I came across the map, from 1971, reproduced above.

If you look closely enough, you can even pick out where folks lived at the time.

MOVIE REVIEW

‘Soul’ the perfect film to start the new year

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer With their 26th film since “Toy Story” hit theaters in 1995, Pixar has hit yet another home run with “Soul”.

“Soul” captures your attention and proceeds to hold it with an iron grip for an hour and 49 minutes.

Jamie Foxx is the perfect choice to voice Joe Gardner and he shines through the entire film.

Alongside Tina Fey as 22, the two stars form a dynamic that entertains throughout.

With easily Pixar’s most diverse cast assembled, “Soul” is the first Pixar film to have a Black lead and boasts a majority Black principal cast.

Joining Foxx and Fey, the film also features Phylicia Rashad,

Angela Bassett, Rachel House, Alice Braga, Richard Ayoade, Graham Norton, Donnell Rawlings, and Questlove.

Joe Gardner is a middle school band teacher who has always dreamed of the stage. His true passion is jazz. Gardener is blessed with the opportunity to live his dream performing with Dorothea Williams (Angela Bassett). Joe gets ripped away from his dream when tragedy strikes, and he gets pulled into the Great Before.

After a run-in with Moonwind (Graham Norton), a mystic who rescues lost souls, Joe and 22 find themselves back on Earth in a less than ideal situation.

“Soul” swerves from the typical afterlife tale, serving up a unique take on what lies beyond, or in this case, before.

From the bureaucracy of “Beetlejuice” to the Día De Los Muertos inspired world of fellow Pixar film “Coco”, the af-

terlife is a well-explored concept. “Soul” instead explores what comes before. What determines how a person thinks and feels. What goes into creating a soul before it becomes a human being.

“Soul” is a sight to behold, even for Pixar’s sky-high standards. Vibrant and eye-catching, it’s difficult to look away from the screen. It demands attention. The music in “Soul” is infectious. Pixar, already known for its excellent use of music in its movies, reaches another level with this melodic film.

As mentioned before, the dynamic between Foxx and Fey is one of the movie’s standout features. The chemistry between Joe and 22 is heartwarming and hilarious from the moment they connect.

“Soul” explores the feeling of inspiration, achievement of great things, and the concepts of self-doubt and becoming

stuck living a mundane life.

“Soul” tackles some of the great existential questions many people face. What are we meant to do with our lives?

What if we’re doing the wrong thing? Is it too late to make more out of the life we’re living? Is it too late to change?

It’s because of this that “Soul” is a movie that both children and adults should experience. Its message is one of self-affirmation in the face of self-doubt. It’s a film that says it’s never too late to find what you are meant to do on Earth.

“Soul” celebrates and reaffirms life. After a trying year like 2020, it is the perfect movie to start off a new year on a positive note.

Final Verdict: The combination of music, a touching story, a star-studded voice cast, and plenty of laughs makes “Soul” a must-see for kids, adults, and everyone in between.

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

Liberty Hill Garden Club meets Jan. 12

The Jan. 12th program for the Liberty Hill Garden Club is “Waterwise Landscaping and Plant Adaptations” with speaker Bill Welch, Professor of Horticulture, Texas A&M University.

This is a Zoom-based meeting. For Zoom information, write to gardenclubliberty-

hill@gmail.com.

JG Fisk Chapter meets Jan. 9

The Judge Greenleaf Fisk Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas will meet Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cross Tracks Methodist Church, 101 Church St., in Liberty Hill,

TX. The Church will be sanitized, and we will be wearing masks. Social distancing will be observed. The program will feature a talk on the Fisk/ Cashion Historic Cemetery in the Larkspur addition. Membership in the Daughters of the Republic of Texas is open to any woman of lineal descent from an ancestor who lived during the period of the

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Republic (1836-1846). Associate memberships are also available to women who are interested in Texas history of this period . Associate dues are $25 per year. For more information, please contact Chapter Registrar, Joyce Parsons at jnparsons1112@gmail.com, or president, Mariann Laughlin at truetexaswomen@gmail.com

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, January 7, 2021 Section A Page 3

EDITORIAL:

Budget questions evolve from what to why

For much of 2020, The Independent spent a great deal of time digging for data and answers on how the City of Liberty Hill was making financial decisions.

Questions ranged from specific ones regarding what was spent on actual projects, to larger questions of who was actually making the decisions and what information that was based on. Those were the “what” questions about the budget.

It’s a new year, and those old questions, repeated time and again, have led to new questions. The new questions are the “why” questions.

Why is information so impossible to get?

Why is there such a staunch refusal to discuss taxpayer money?

Why is the City or City Council hiding this information from the public.

After nearly a year of aggressively trying to get the information, it is fair to make the call today that something is being hidden. Why else would information about how much of the public’s money the City receives and how it chooses to spend taxpayer funds be so hard to get? Why else would it be met with such disdain when the subject is brought up for discussion?

The Council approved a budget in September that didn’t show accurate previous year revenues or expenses. What could that approval have been based on? It must be very difficult to digest and approve a budget that doesn’t provide much background to support the numbers being voted on.

Those incorrect numbers presented in the draft budget in August are the same numbers that are now part of the record in the final approved budget.

Not since mid-2018 has the Council seen – at least in a public meeting – a report that shows revenues or expenses. Instead, they see a report that shares three numbers on the General Fund, pooled cash, investments and claims on pooled cash.

There is no financial detail.

It turns out the monthly revenue and expense reports, which the City adamantly claimed were not available in May 2020, are indeed available. Two months worth – October and November of 2020 – were provided to The Independent. But still no similar reports for the two previous fiscal years that ended in September 2020. Why? Is there something we should not see in those reports?

There very well could be an explanation for it all. But if that were the case, why would the City be determined to hold out in this tug-of-war over information that ultimately belongs to the public?

When you have nothing to hide, you hide nothing.

So is the City hiding something, and if so, why?

Letters to the Editor Send Letters to the Editor by email to news@LHIndependent.com Sports coverage

Dear Editor: All of your articles that I have read over these months have really been wonderful. They are an encouragement and a bright light of hope for our community as our sports offer a joyful outlet that keep us healthy. Thanks for keeping some normality in our weeks!

Shannon Hofmann Liberty Hill

Re. “A perfect time to resolve to do better”

Dear Editor: This is in response to the editorial in the Dec. 31st issue.

FYI – Mr. Eddleman and I exchanged emails to questions submitted by Mr. Eddleman on December 14-16. His last response was that he was going to email me all his unanswered budget questions for me to answer. That was his final response to the emails we exchanged on December 16 . (I had no response back to that email).

He apparently didn’t like my answers to his initial questions and, I don’t like his attitude and snarky tactics towards me.

I heard nothing from him until December 26 at 1:14 pm (yes, that is the Saturday afternoon after Christmas) when he emailed me a list of questions.

Twelve days later on a weekend you send me a list of questions that you want answers to - not the next day on December 17th, but instead on December 26th, Mr. Eddleman. Some of these questions I can answer easily and some I will need to have answered with the help of our finance director - 12 days later you sent questions that we never discussed initially!

I don’t work on your whim of a time schedule or when it becomes convenient for you. To see your nasty editorial and your 5 day whine about not getting answers from me when they are convenient for you to receive them will not get them done by me any faster. That was a real cheap shot even for you Mr. Eddleman. I always try to answer the questions I get from the newspaper although I am under no obligation to do so.

These tactics are not professional or acceptable and may be the reason he has such a hard time getting any response from members of the Council.

Once again, I received a terse email from Mr. Eddlemen on Sunday afternoon, January 3rd at 1:24 pm asking “am I going to answer your questions?” I do plan to try to get answers for these questions, but they will be answered on my time schedule and ability to find the answers to this set of questions, which with the exception of one question, are different from any I recall having been previously asked of me by Mr. Eddleman.

Kathy Canady Liberty Hill City Council

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Williamson County EMS ďŹ eld staff receives COVID-19 vaccination

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Williamson County EMS’s front-line paramedics received COVID-19 vaccinations on Dec. 29. Because EMS ďŹ eld staff are among the ďŹ rst to interact with those possibly infected with COVID-19 County ofďŹ cials made their vaccination a top priority.

WilCo partnered with Family Health Services to get ďŹ eld staff vaccinated and is working with the County Cities Health District to get the vaccine to those eligible for the ďŹ rst round of vaccinations. “I am grateful to Operation Warp Speed for expediting the COVID-19 vaccination process and giving us all hope from the devastation of this virus,â€? said County Judge Bill Gravell. “I am grateful for Family Hospital Systems and their willingness to work during the holidays to ad-

minister the vaccine to our eligible employees. When the vaccine is available for me, I plan to get the COVID-19 vaccine and encourage others to take it.�

Williamson County EMS Director Mike Knipstein did not receive a vaccination because his role is primarily in his ofďŹ ce, but he spoke with his ďŹ eld staff about the vaccination and has received expected feedback. “The ones that have gotten it, it’s the same stuff that you hear in the news,â€? said Knipstein. “We’ve had a few that have had some natural immune responses where they’re fatigued, and they feel a little achy. Some have reported a low-grade fever but nothing out of the ordinary. The number that has experienced that is less than we anticipated.â€?

Knipstein is also grateful to Family Health Services for its ability to distribute the vac-

cine quickly. “I think the biggest thing was getting the vaccine in.

Once we had it in, we had our agreement with Family Health Systems. I think they received the vaccine at 10:30 in the morning, and by 11:45, we were already vaccinating our staff. That process was pretty easy.�

He stressed the importance of getting vaccinated, and not just for his staff but the general population. “Our staff is interacting with COVID positive patients every day, and this is a huge step to keeping them healthy,� he said. “We hear a lot about herd immunity, and this is a big part of us getting to that.

We have to participate; a large portion of the population has to participate in getting a vaccine. We want to make sure our staff is safe. In terms of the general population, if we want to get back to normal as

quickly as possible, vaccination is a key to that.�

While some people have their doubts and are skeptical about the vaccine, Knipstein believes it’s the most effective way to regain the normalcy everyone wants. “As we talk about getting back to normal, we have to either trust the science and use the vaccine, or we have to let the disease run its course.

That can be years,� he said. “If we want to get back to what we normally experience pre-COVID, the vaccine is the quickest way to do it, and it’s the safest way to do it.�

The vaccine is not yet available to everyone as it is being given in phases, ďŹ rst to frontline workers and those most vulnerable. In the meantime, Williamson County EMS encourages citizens to continue social distancing, sanitizing, and wearing a mask until the situation improves.

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More than 2,000 seniors in WilCo long-term care facilities to receive vaccines

GEORGETOWN – Williamson County has been working diligently with state and private sector partners to get more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to the most vulnerable populations and those eligible to receive the vaccine, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services distribution phases.

The County is pleased to report that 2,020 seniors currently living in long-term care facilities or nursing homes have begun receiving the ďŹ rst dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Getting the vaccine is a voluntary decision. “From the beginning I have stated that our seniors are our most valuable population, and they are the group of people who have suffered the greatest

loss of life in our county and country. That is why we are using every resource available to protect them,� said Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell.

The distribution of the vaccine to 14 long-term care and nursing home facilities in Williamson County was made possible with the collaboration of CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens and the support from state leaders. “I want to give a special thank you to Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd for their support of this distribution program, along with CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens. Together we are battling this deadly virus and building a better tomorrow,�

Gravell added.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

County offers virtual mental health conference

On Friday, Jan. 15th and Sunday, Jan. 17th, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Virtual Mental Health Task Force of Williamson County is offering a FREE virtual mental health conference for professionals and community members.

Friday, Jan. 15th will be targeted towards mental health professionals such as LMFTs, LPCs, LCSWs, and LMSWs. Four free CEUs will be offered

CARTER

Continued from Page A1

College certification Wednesday.

But that certification was not completed by press time Wednesday afternoon as supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol building and it was locked down in the middle of the debate of those objections in both houses.

Just over 24 hours after Carter, R-Georgetown, announced his support for the objection in a press release and on social media, he called for peaceful protests.

“Peaceful protests are a fundamental right in the United States, but violence is absolutely unacceptable. Respect our law enforcement officers’ orders. Vacate the Capitol and let the process unfold. Anyone committing violent acts should be immediately arrested,” Carter said.

Protesters poured into the

POWELL

with sessions including topics such as Moral Injury and Compassion Fatigue, Healthy Stress and Coping Mechanisms/Emotional Eating, Mental Illness, Suicide Prevention, and How to Ask the Hard Questions, and Isolation and Substance Abuse.

Sunday, Jan. 17th will be for any and all community members. Participants can pick and choose from topics such as

Capitol building, with images circulating of armed individuals occupying the two chambers and some Congressional offices.

Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz, who was the Senator who brought the objection – along with Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar – also called for protesters to do so peacefully on social media.

The certification process, which began around noon, was stopped when the objection was raised over the Electoral votes from Arizona.

At that point the House and Senate took up the issue for debate separately, but roughly an hour into debate the Capitol was locked down.

In his Tweet Tuesday announcing his support for the objection, Carter said, “I do not take the decision to object to the Electoral Certification lightly. In fact, it is one of the

Continued from Page A1

table, which is a terrific and open-minded point of view,” Powell said.

There will be an effort to attract new businesses, but Powell is determined to equally support existing businesses as well.

“An important thing to me and to the EDC Board is to make sure we’re not focusing all of our attention on just bringing in shiny new things,” Powell said. “Shiny new things are fun, and can be a good driver of quality of life, but we need to also make sure that the businesses that have invested in Liberty Hill in the past and doing business here

now are also being supported.

“The best business development strategies begin and end with strong retention strategies,” he added.

There is not a one-size-fits all strategy for retention, according to Powell, but it begins with taking the time to learn about and understand the needs of each business.

“If there’s a restaurant or some sort of employer that is ready to grow and they’re in Liberty Hill we would like them obviously to stay here,” Powell said. “Once they’re identified and we determine what their needs are then comes the fun part where we figure out how

Page A5

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Suicide Prevention and mental Illness for Youth and Adults, Utilizing Aunt Bertha, Isolation and Substance Abuse, and with breaks featuring yoga, healthy food demonstrations, and much more!

Special thanks to the task force partners for making this event possible: Bluebonnet Trails Community Services, Rock Springs Behavioral Health, Georgetown Behav-

ioral Health Institute, NAMI Central Texas, Healthy Williamson County, and Williamson County Juvenile Services.

Register on the Williamson County AgriLife website: https://williamson.agrilife.org/ events/.

For more events visit https:// williamson.agrilife.org/ events/. For more information contact Andrea Haubner at andrea.haubner@ag.tamu.edu.

most serious things I will do this year as the representative of the 31st District of Texas – stand up for the 74 million people who feel like they cannot trust their democracy. Over the last month, I have heard from thousands of my constituents that feel like their vote didn’t count, and feel like allegations of election irregularities were not sufficiently investigated or heard by the justice system. I want my constituents to know that I hear them, and I will fight to ensure that the results of this election are legal, accurate and representative of Americans’ votes.”

Carter’s office did not respond Tuesday or Wednesday morning to follow up questions seeking more specific details on how the election results should be verified as legitimate or legal, or what specifically the irregularities were he noted in his social me-

dia post.

The objection was not expected to result in a change of the Electoral Votes for Arizona or the certification of an Electoral majority for President-elect Joe Biden.

To overturn an election result, it would require Congress to disqualify enough electoral votes to drop Biden’s total below 270 from his current 306.

Both chambers would have to vote in favor of disqualifying any votes from any state.

Organizations across the country spoke out early this week against the growing push to object to the certification.

“On Nov. 3 a record number of Americans voted.

Their votes were counted and consistent with state law, in some cases, recounted. More than 50 legal challenges were heard, adjudicated, and resolved. Election results in all 50 states and the District of

Columbia were certified and duly appointed electors have met and cast their votes for president and vice president.

Efforts by some members of Congress to disregard certified election results in an effort to change the election outcome or to try a make a long-term political point undermines our democracy and the rule of law and will only result in further division across our nation,” said CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Thomas J. Donohue in a statement.

best to help them. Sometimes that will be through individual help, working with them directly and seeing through a grant program or something else we can get them over the hump to get to their tipping point and grow here.”

In addition to the balance of supporting existing Liberty Hill businesses while recruiting new ones, Powell is keenly aware of ensuring a balance is struck between growth and that quality of life local residents have identified as important.

Liberty Hill has great potential for both, he said, and losing one for the other would be

a mistake.

“The idea that it is growing is exciting, but it has that smalltown feel,” Powell said. “It’s just a friendly place, where people know each other. It has a real sense of community. I think that if you allow yourself to grow in an irresponsible way you can lose that feeling and lose that soul.”

That soul can be maintained for everyone in the community, old and new.

“It is possible to grow and not lose your soul, and that is going to be very top of mind here,” Powell said. “The old adage is true, growth is coming. You can work with it and

make sure the growth is advantageous to both those who have been here and those who are arriving. Or, you can push back against it, and to a limited extent you can control it, but I don’t think anyone is saying we should just grow with reckless abandon.”

As part of that economic balance, a diversity in types of jobs is also important.

“The idea is that while we certainly want to be open for business, and we want to have lots of places for people to work,” Powell said. “In a real economy, there will be everything from minimum wage up to six-figure jobs and an

lhindependent.com/subscriptions

Similar The CEO of the League of Women Voters, Virginia Kase, shared similar sentiments on the certification process.

“In November, the American people turned out in record numbers to elect the next president of the United States, and the Electoral College confirmed the people’s will last

month. The electors from each state have certified their results, and the role of Congress this week is to confirm that the votes sent are the ones the electors certified. Congress has no legal ability to change those results.

“While the League believes the Electoral College should be abolished, it is our current system for electing the next president. All elected officials must respect our democracy, accept the outcome of the election, and affirm the will of the people.”

It was unclear at press time Wednesday when the certification process will resume and what will occur with the objection debate at that time. Check The Independent’s website for updated information as it becomes available.

economy that is designed and encouraging of supporting all of it generally functions a lot better. We want to have a local economy that is diversified enough that when one thing takes a dip not everything will.

That’s how you weather those storms, even in an economic downturn.”

Ultimately, it all leads back to one goal Powell has set himself to achieving.

“We can and will become known as one of the great small towns to do business in,” he said. “I would like for our reputation to be that we are a great place to do work and grow a business in the state.”

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Page A6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

CHODY

Continued from Page A1

certainly close enough to.�

Alison Gleason is the Director of Enterprise Applications Division at Williamson County, Texas fueling Chody’s suspicions on the election’s validity. “One interesting item worth noting is that my opponent’s wife is a high-ranking IT tech that has complete access to

the voting machine software,â€? said Chody in his afďŹ davit. “This is interesting considering my opponent declared victory hours before voting was concluded.â€?

The suit also notes a technical error that impacted the voting breakdown found by the county. Chris Davis Williamson County Elections Administra-

SCHWERTNER

which includes Liberty Hill and Williamson County – sees a challenge coming with what is expected to be decreased revenues. “On the revenue side, according to Comptroller (Glenn) Hegar, revenue projections are down, and you’d think they would be because our economy is not quite as strong as it was prior to COVID, though it’s a lot better than a lot of other states,� Schwertner said. “I think the projection he is going to have for the next two years, in the biennial revenue estimate, will demonstrate we only have x number of dollars in the checking account and therefore we will have to really look with a discerning eye regarding our priorities and our ability to pay for those.�

In all the options that will be on the table for getting the budget approved for the next biennium, one that Schwertner is ďŹ rmly opposed to is new taxes. “I don’t want to raise taxes, so we need to really tighten our belt and look at our priorities and make sure some of the investments we have in education are funded and that the essential services of the State of

BUDGET

Continued from Page A1

Texas are continued,� he said. “Things that can be reduced or might be lower on the priority list might need to be put off and or stopped because it will be a tough budgetary cycle.�

COVID changes everything Schwertner heads into the session knowing the COVID-19 pandemic will have an effect on the budget, but also on many pieces of legislation to be considered.

One of Schwertner’s own pieces of legislation, back when Ebola was a concern, would have addressed some of the issues that have hampered the state’s ability to deal with COVID today. “We need to bolster and improve our responses to the threats of pandemics and infectious diseases,â€? he said. kind of in the lead on the Senate four or ďŹ ve years ago regarding the Ebola response and I authored a signiďŹ cant bill that unfortunately didn’t make it through the House. But it would have better prepared Texas for pandemic response and unfortunately it wasn’t in place for this response to COVID.â€?

The bill called for spending

Continued from Page A1

personnel was $1.1 million.

Throughout the approved budget the actual numbers for the 2019-2020 ďŹ scal year are hundreds of thousands of dollars shy of projected numbers, and clearly inaccurate as they don’t show enough revenue or expenditures to cover even personnel costs.

When asked what process was used for evaluating and determining the need for the additional positions added to the City staff in the current budget, Canady wrote, “The Mayor, our ďŹ nance director, Municipal ofďŹ cers and Department heads look at information

tor addressed the ballot issues in Commissioners Court on Nov. 10. “Last Monday, the day before the election, our ofďŹ ce discovered an error in the relational database that our poll book vendor, Tenex, created to conďŹ gure the electronic poll books for checking in voters during the in-person early voting pe-

provided such as previously budgeted, current expenditures and current revenue along with projections of revenue, new projects and needs along with work load from new growth.

The mayor and group come up with a budget to present to council to ďŹ t the needs and it is presented to council.â€?

That lack of previous ďŹ nancial data also makes it difďŹ cult to show where funds came from to pay for not only the capital projects taken on in the last two ďŹ scal years, but also how cost overruns on those projects were funded.

These questions would have

Clawson Disposal, inC.

$4 million to stockpile personal protective equipment, and would have created a clear chain of command in an infectious disease emergency, something Schwertner said seems lacking in the COVID response. “In the case of a pandemic you kind of need a strong hand and Governor Abbott sometimes has wielded that and sometimes hasn’t,� Schwertner said. “It really comes down to who is in control and who is at the pinnacle of leadership and it is the president and various governors and it is really individualized based on that person at that time. “There was a lot of hot potato tossing between the Governor, county judges and mayors and then back, on who was calling the shots, who was getting testing, were we shutting down the economy or were we not, were we quarantining, were we mandating mask-wearing or not?�

He believes it was not addressed quickly enough and almost immediately turned into a politically divisive issue. “It was addressed too late from a national perspective,�

Schwertner said. “We saw

Thursday, January 7, 2021

riod of the election,� said Davis. “We’re certain that voters throughout early voting in person and Election Day in person or by mail were all given the correct ballot style. These ballots during the in-person early voting period were being assigned and coded to incorrect precincts. We want to stress that this incorrect precinct as-

signment does not affect the early voting in-person results we released on election night.

By the time in-person voting began on Nov. 3, the precinct assignment was corrected.�

The Independent reached out to Davis for comment on the lawsuit, but Davis said he has no comment at this time.

Chody is seeking $100,000

in damages. He also asks that if the court ďŹ nds the election results cannot be resolved, that a new election for sheriff be held.

Chody did not respond to requests for an interview with The Independent.

Gleason was sworn in as the sheriff of Williamson County on Jan. 1.

what was happening in China and Italy. So it became political very very fast and that’s not the way to handle a healthcare pandemic crisis. It needs to have a plan of action and a very speciďŹ c chain of command. We didn’t see that at the national level and unfortunately we didn’t see it on the state level.â€?

While he doesn’t know what will come of this session as far as pandemic preparations for the future, he hopes that because the State is still dealing with the COVID pandemic there will be more interest in being prepared for the future. “Because COVID is more front and center still, I think people realize that this is an infectious disease threat at this time, and there certainly could be one in the future with increased transportation across the globe and increase in populations across the globe,� he said. “There’s a renewed focus on the Department of State Health Services and the overall effects of COVID, such as mental health and how it is unfortunately affected not just school-aged children in school, and how they’re trying to remote learn, but also there

are school-aged children who are having trouble from a developmental standpoint. There will be lots of discussions about the immediate COVID affects and the long-term COVID affects.�

political and partisan. You can have a Republican versus a Republican or Democrat versus a Democrat having discussions about neighboring precincts.

It’s a very intense time because of that as well.�

Not only can it cause tension between parties, it can do so between members of the same party, and at times threaten the future of other legislative efforts. “Unfortunately there are always some areas of the state that have two legislators that don’t feel like they got a fair shake and that can lead to various unforeseen roadblocks in other areas of getting legislation passed if they’re in a position of power to stop something or throw a tantrum,� he said.

Sticky redistricting This session, the Legislature will have an additional duty and that is redistricting.

Redistricting is conducted every 10 years, and the Legislature is tasked with approving new boundaries for the state’s 36 members of the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the 181 members of the Texas Legislature – Senate and House combined. “That’s always a very interesting time,� Schwertner said of the redistricting process. “I kind of describe it as personal,

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come to light had Branigan’s request for a budget review not been shut down by Council in a unanimous vote on Dec. 14.

Canady, who made the motion to deny the review, continues to contend that August was the time to question the budget, not today. “Any questions should have been asked during the budget process and subsequent

public hearing,� she wrote. “I have stated my thoughts on this numerous times. The City posted the required notices and held the required hearings for the tax rate and budget. Just because we are now utilizing a different approach does not mean it is wrong – just a different methodology from former administrations.�

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, January 7, 2021 Section B Page 1

Two-headed Crosby monster up next for Panthers

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor The path to Friday night’s State Semifinal tilt between Liberty Hill and Crosby has not been an easy one for either squad.

Panther head football coach Kent Walker said it won’t get any easier in Bryan.

“It should be a challenge and you look forward to challenges,” he said. “We’ve just got to get better defensively this week. It seems like I’ve said that the last two weeks, but I think our kids understand where we are and where we’re trying to get.”

After the Panthers rolled over their first two playoff opponents, Rouse tested the defense two weeks ago before Pioneer pushed it to the limit last weekend.

“We’ve got to get a lot better this week defensively,” Walker said. “We need to understand that when someone does score on us it’s okay, we don’t have to play hesitant. That’s what’s happened to us recently. I hope that’s out of our system now and we understand we’ve got to play fast.”

The shutouts on defense that characterized the regular season are a fond memory as each week presents a more talented opponent than the last, but now the Panthers find themselves

only one win from a state title shot.

“Being in the Semifinal you’re going to play the best and it’s going to be a challenge,” Walker said. “We just have to enjoy it because a win is a win at this point.”

The team standing between the Panthers and the championship game is the Crosby Cougars, owners of a 11-3 record and a much more balanced offense than the previous two opponents. The Cougars average 216 yards per game in the air and 198 on the ground. They average 41 points per game and surrender 22.

It doesn’t take a lot of digging through stats or pouring over game film to see where those yards and points come from, though. Crosby is fueled by a two-headed monster – Reggie Branch and Deniquez Dunn.

Through the Cougars’ playoff run Dunn has primarily lined up under center with Branch in the backfield, but those roles were reversed much of the season.

“The reason the numbers are so skewed is because Branch was their quarterback throughout most of the year, but since they’ve been in the playoffs Dunn has primarily been their quarterback,” Walker said.

“They’re both dangerous and they have a good offensive

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor In a game where two teams combined for 1,368 yards and 16 touchdowns, it might seem a bit ironic that a handful of point after attempts were what proved to matter most.

But in the Panthers 56-53 win over the Pioneer Diamondbacks, five extra point tries and a field goal attempt made more than the difference in the score, and had Pioneer converted on even a couple of those attempts, the Panthers could be the ones staying home this week. Head Coach Kent Walker said the importance of the key special teams plays could not be overestimated.

“Coach (Carlos) Garza does a great job for us on special teams,” Walker said. “He always has something for us each week for a block and everything else and he did a great job this week and the kids went out and executed. It ended up being the difference in the game really.”

Pioneer missed its second point after try and chased that point all night. A two-point conversion in the second quarter got it back, but the Panthers blocked the kick on the Diamondbacks’ next score for an eight-point halftime lead.

The two teams traded early touchdowns in the third quarter, but Austin Bourgeois knocked the ball away on Pioneer’s second point after try of the half and the Panther lead grew to nine.

Two possessions later – with

the Panthers clinging to a onepoint lead – Bryce Rampy blocked a Diamondbacks’ field goal attempt and Preston Shephard returned it to midfield to set the Panthers up for another score. The block denied Pioneer its first lead of the game, and gave the Panther offense a short field they turned into a touchdown two plays later.

The Diamondbacks would not go away, though, and they scored again on the next drive, closing to within two points with less than 10 minutes to play. A two-point conversion would tie the game, but Bourgeois came up big again, this time intercepting the try to maintained the lead.

Pioneer would fail on one more two-point try and when the dust settled, the Panthers won by three after denying the opposition 11 point in all.

It proved the mathematical advantage on the scoreboard, but Walker said it also helped his team keep the mental edge throughout.

“They were big,” Walker said of the stops. “It kind of kept us up and energized and everything else getting those blocks.”

All the Panther special teams success didn’t come with their backs to the end zone. Twice in the second half – once on the opening kick of the third quarter and the second time with under three minute to play – Liberty Hill recovered a Diamondbacks onside kick attempt, denying their offense another scoring opportunity.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Trey Seward is just shy of 1,500 rushing yards this season, joining Blake Simpson, Eric De La Cruz and Noah Long as the primary ballcarriers in a 5,000-plus yard season so far. line, but it’s dangerous be- yards and 15 touchdowns Liberty Hill is not without is at 755 yards on the ground cause both of them can run through the air. On the other its own impressive offensive with 11 scores. the football, and really both of end of the passing game he has numbers after surpassing 700 The Cougars run a 3-4 dethem can throw the football. 36 receptions for 401 yards yards rushing in the win over fense similar to the Panthers, They’ve also got good receiv- and an additional five scores.

Pioneer. Through 11 games and with 157 tackles for loss ers, so they’re pretty potent on The Crosby offense will be played, the Panthers have and 38 sacks, they’ve shown offense.” more balanced than the last 5,089 rushing yards, led by great speed and an ability to Branch has logged 1,540 two opponents, but that’s nei- Blake Simpson’s 1,782 and 27 penetrate on defense. That yards rushing and 17 touch- ther an advantage or disadvan- touchdowns. He has posted his aggressiveness could be an downs on the ground, but he’s tage according to Walker. biggest games of the season in advantage for the Panthers’ also passed for 1,527 yards “They’re so athletic, they are the last two weeks with 298 Slot T offense, but Walker said and 15 more scores. For good going to be hard to defend re- and 302 yards in those con- only lining up to play the game measure he has 325 yards on gardless of whether they run tests. will determine that.

25 receptions and five more or pass,” he said. “To put up Trey Seward is up to 1,435 “I don’t know if it’s really an scores. the points they did on a really yards and 19 scores, while advantage, but it should be a For his part, Dunn has 844 good Marshall defense obvi- Eric De La Cruz surpassed 700 lot of fun,” Walker said. yards on the ground with 18 ously is concerning and im- yards on the season with his touchdowns. He has 1,410 pressive.” big game against Pioneer. He

Panther special teams make critical big plays

ALEX RUBIO PHOTOS

(ABOVE) Aaron Brewer and the Panther special teams kept the pressure up on the Diamondbacks throughout the game, denying them 11 points on point after tries and field goal attempts throughout the 56-53 Liberty Hill win. (BELOW) Preston Shepherd returned a field goal attempt that was blocked by Bryce Rampy late in the third quarter, setting up the Panthers at midfield for a quick score.

Liberty Hill’s boys soccer squad will need to replace lost offense

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTO

Senior defender Rhett Hofmann (#3) will lead the Liberty Hill defense in the Panthers’ first season of Class 5A competition.

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When the Liberty Hill boys’ soccer team stepped onto the field last season, there was a very good chance of one thing happening.

Jaron Frye scoring a goal.

If not several.

Frye led the Panthers with 41 goals last season, along with a squad-best 20 assists – that’s 61 goal involvements from the speedy striker – offensive numbers which will have to be replaced this year, as Frye finished his high-school career at the conclusion of the campaign.

However, despite the daunting task of finding ways to generate offense in Frye’s absence, Liberty Hill head coach

Wayne Munger is confident he has enough firepower at his disposal moving forward.

“Jaron will surely be missed this year,” he said. “We will have to find different ways of scoring for sure, but we have the talent to do so.”

At the top of the list is junior Kegan Taggart, who is the leading returning scorer this season, after netting 15 goals during his sophomore season last spring, but he was the only other Liberty Hill player to hit the back of the net in double-digits.

Players such as seniors Zach Ellis and Ethan Minix, along with underclassman like juniors Garrison Clopton, Mayson White and Sean Snelgrooes will also be depended

on to provide goals.

At the opposite end of the pitch, the Panthers will also need to replace graduated senior goalkeeper Urial Diaz, who posted 11 shutouts last season – a situation Munger said is still being evaluated.

“Our first-team keeper situation is still being sorted out,” he said. “We’ll look at performances in our scrimmages and practice and go from there.”

In front of whoever wins the right to wear the gloves in goal, the Panthers will feature a solid defense, led by senior Rhett Hofmann, who provides a physical presence at the back and height which gives the lanky defender an advantage during aerial battles.

See BOYS, Page B2

Page B2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 7, 2021

PANTHERS OF THE WEEK

Splashing sisters

Siblings find solace in swimming

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Brooke and Bailey Becker pull on a swim cap and goggles to compete for the Liberty Hill swim team, they share a bond with each other – not only as teammates, but twin sisters.

According to Bailey, racing her sister in the pool is simply an extension of what goes on between them all the time.

“I like being teammates with my twin sister because we have a natural competition between us and she’s my best friend,” said Bailey. “But, the worst thing about being teammates with her is she’s faster than me in the water.”

However, Brooke said she doesn’t particularly like it when she reaches the wall at the end of a race ahead of Bailey.

“The best thing about being teammates with her is having a friend – and teammate – I know will always be there to encourage and motivate me,”

she said. “However, the worst thing is having to compete against her.”

Of course, the best possible result is for both to celebrate victory at the same time, as they did earlier this season when the Panthers hosted Copperas Cove and Hutto, when Brooke won the 500-yard freestyle in a time of 6:31.19 and Bailey was victorious in the 100-yard freestyle in 1:14.37.

On that same day in the 100yard breaststroke, Brooke won in 1:20.83, while Bailey finished third in 1:30.32.

Bailey and Brooke are also half of a school-record 100yard medley relay team, setting a mark of 1:00.63 at the Georgetown Sprint Invite on Sept. 28, 2019.

In fact, the Becker name can be found throughout the Liberty Hill record book.

Brooke holds individual records in the 200-yard freestyle (2:25.70), 100-yard individual medley (1:13.19), 50-yard breaststroke (35.00) and 100-

yard breaststroke (1;15.53), while Bailey has the record in the 25-yard freestyle (14.80).

Currently, the Panthers hold their home meets at the Burnet YMCA – something both Bailey and Brooke said needs to change if the team – which is only in its second year of existence – is going to continue to grow.

“I feel the team has improved because we have more swimmers,” said Bailey. “But, we need to have a lap pool in Liberty Hill to train in.”

Brooke agreed with her sister.

“We’re expanding our team and becoming more competitive,” she said. “But, to make it better we need pool time to practice as a team.”

Both Beckers are also volleyballers at both the school and club levels and first hit the pool at age eight in order to better condition them for when they hit the court.

But, Bailey said she enjoys the aspect of competing on her own in the water.

Bailey and Brooke Becker have made names for themselves as members of the Liberty Hill swim team, as well as playing volleyball for the Lady Panthers. (Courtesy Photo) “What I enjoy most about vorite subject in the classroom Brooke said her secret to sucswim is my performance de- is health science endorsement, cess is keeping a light dispopends on me as an individual,” which she hopes will lead to sition. she said. “I took up the sport a career in the medical field, “People who don’t know me because my parents encour- while Brooke enjoys educa- would be surprised to find out aged me to.” tion and training endorsement I don’t like to take myself too When the duo isn’t execut- classes on the way to being a seriously,” she said. ing flip turns in the water or teacher.

Unless you meet up with her pounding volleyballs on the While Bailey hopes to play in the pool. hardwood, Bailey said her fa- volleyball at the college level,

Holding office from afar

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor We would be remiss if we didn’t own up to something.

For the past two weeks, the Mayor of Pantherville has been in self-imposed exile.

Yes, you heard right.

Your faithful, devoted, self-appointed Purple-and-Gold leader has witnessed the past two Liberty Hill football games via the modern miracle we call the internet while visiting family in California for Christmas.

Of course, in order to do this, we had to leave behind our new, adopted Panthers family at one of the most critical times of the season.

Honestly, it’s been quite bittersweet, indeed.

Sure, we set foot on the shores of the Pacific Ocean for the first time in nearly a yearand-a-half since we made the move to central Texas and it’s been nice to immerse oneself in old surroundings.

Not to mention all the good holiday food, which has tightened the belt a bit, to be sure.

Anyway, by the time you read these words, we’ll be back safe-and-sound – and looking forward to the trip to Bryan on

Friday for the Panthers’ state semifinal battle against Crosby.

After sitting through the likes of 84-0, 76-0 and 86-0 during the regular season, we are certainly looking forward to seeing some competitive football, at long last.

However, due to a pesky plague that continues to disrupt everyone’s lives, instead of the playoffs being done and dusted by the time we would’ve stepped foot onto a plane to wing our way west, it was just starting to get good.

After seeing the Panthers utterly dismantle Glenn in the postseason opener, we were certain Champion would provide more of a challenge in the second round – and we were right – but, not by much.

All season long, former head coach Jeff Walker was worried about how his squad would fare when it was finally tested.

Well, Coach, the past two weeks have certainly proved your boys can handle themselves just fine, thank you, when the going gets tough.

After all, the one thing you taught them more than anything was to be exactly that.

Tough.

As if the 1,004 total yards between both sides in the Rouse game – including 544 for the Panthers and 460 for the Raiders – wasn’t enough of a

shootout, we were treated to a game like no other we’ve ever seen in the 56-53 victory over Pioneer.

When the little, black, rubber pellets had settled at Heroes Stadium in San Antonio, Liberty Hill had piled up 710 rushing yards.

We’re not sure if that’s a single-game school record – although knowing the potency of the Panthers offense over the years, it’s probably not – but, a mind-blowing number regardless.

But, let’s give proper credit to the defense, while we’re at it.

When they needed stops, they got them, despite giving up more points the past two weeks than they had all season combined to that point.

So, now, on to a Crosby squad which upset Fort Bend Marshall – the team the Panthers had on their radar all season as the one they would need to get through to make their state title dreams a real possibility.

The Cougars feature potent weapons on offense – but then again, so did Champion and Pioneer –and numbers never tell the entire story, so, we’ll see.

But, the good news is whatever unfolds under the lights will be once again witnessed with our own eyes rather than electronic ones from half-a-continent away.

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Jackson Knox (#8) has signed a national letter of intent to play baseball at Tyler Junior College.

Senior second baseman will play for the Apaches next season

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Jackson Knox takes the field for the Liberty Hill baseball team this season, he will no longer have the cloud of college recruitment hanging over his head.

Knox has signed a national letter of intent to play baseball at Tyler Junior College, which means he will be able to enjoy his final season in Purpleand-Gold without still having to worry about his immediate future, he said.

“Now that I signed, it feels

like a weight off my shoulders,” said Knox. “My decision-making process wasn’t hard after I visited Tyler. I liked everything about the school and campus, so choosing Tyler was easy for me.

The process wasn’t really stressful – it was more of a challenge to be patient and wait more than anything.”

Knox – a second baseman – hit .486 with two home runs, 12 runs batted in and 14 runs scored in 15 games at the plate last season, while also pitching eight scoreless

innings in a pair of victories on the mound, including 12 strikeouts.

Tyler was an easy choice for him once he added up all the determining factors, said Knox.

“I picked Tyler Junior College because I felt as if they were the best fit for me,” he said. “They develop their players and prepare them for the next level. I also picked Tyler because I love the area around the campus – there are

See KNOX, Page B3

Fuller signs with Lubbock Christian University for soccer

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Madi Fuller has made a habit over the past four years of making marauding runs against opponents on soccer fields across central Texas during her time as a Lady Panthers midfielder, incorporating speed and skill in a physical playing style that terrorizes defenders.

Next season, that won’t change, but the location will as the Liberty Hill senior has signed a national letter of intent to play soccer at Lubbock Christian University.

According to Fuller, the atmosphere she experienced – athletically and academically – was the primary factor in choosing the Chaparrals to continue her career on both fronts.

“I chose Lubbock Christian University because of the environment – some of my family lives near the university and I was influenced to go there because of the soccer program,” said Fuller. “I believe it’s the best place for me because the team and coaching staff was very welcoming and engaging and I think LCU will help me pursue my future career in becoming a physical therapist.”

Moving up to the college level will certainly present challenges for her, but Fuller is confident the relationships she develops upon her arrival will make it a smooth transition.

“The biggest challenges being on and off the field are probably adapting to the new environment I’ll be surround-

ing myself in,” she said. “Creating bonds with new people and trying to balance school and soccer.”

Liberty Hill head coach Darren Bauer said Fuller will also have much less margin for error on the pitch in the college game.

“The biggest challenge is managing your time academically, athletically and socially,” he said. “On the field, you have to become more efficient.

With the play being at a higher level overall, the window for mistakes is much smaller.”

Fuller was fourth on the Lady Panthers’ scoring charts last season, with 17 goals from her midfield position and added a squad-leading 22 assists during her junior campaign.

But, Bauer said Fuller provides much more than just numbers.

“Her leadership, relentless work ethic and seemingly endless fitness will greatly benefit her at LCU and put her ahead of other girls from the start,” he said. “Her strength and fitness will help out tremendously at the next level – and knowing Madi, she’s only going to get fitter and stronger. Also, LCU’s style of play and coaching philosophy are very suitable for Madi and the fact she has family in the area helps out as well.”

Now that she’s made the commitment to Lubbock Christian before her senior season, Fuller said she will be able to simply enjoy her final year in Purple-and-Gold.

“I think it’ll make my senior season easier because I won’t have a lot of stress on my shoulders,” she said. “The decision-making process was very stressful for me because I was being looked at by different schools in all different environments, which made me have to think a little harder about whether or not I would be able to start my future there or not.”

Bauer added perhaps the most endearing aspects of Fuller involve a group of memories.

“There is no one story, but a collection,” he said. “There are so many incidents I can remember where she amazed me, her teammates, or opponents. Where she absolutely intimidated other players. Or where she would just make me laugh. Madi’s an incredible person who only knows how to put everything into what she’s doing and still have fun.”

Fuller knows despite having the qualities which have gotten her this far, now is certainly no time to rest on what she’s already accomplished.

“Some strengths I have that will help is I’m determined and hard-working, along with my speed and aggressiveness,” she said. “Some things I need to work on are my first touch and passing accuracy.”

As far as the opportunity to move on to the next level of soccer and studies, Fuller couldn’t be more pleased with the chance.

“It’s very exciting and unbelievable,” she said.

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTO

Madi Fuller (#7) has signed a national letter of intent to play soccer at Lubbock Christian University.

Boys

Continued from Page B1

LHHS finished last season with an overall record of 16-6, including a 10-1 district mark in its final season of Class 4A competition, as the campaign was brought to a premature conclusion due to the pandemic.

This year, the Panthers are moving up to Class 5A and a district which includes the Georgetown and Leander schools, along with Cedar Park and Marble Falls, a far cry from the likes of teams such as Florence, Jarrell and Little River Academy, but Munger believes ramping up the intensity will only make for better soccer.

“I expect the competition in the district to be tougher,” he

said. “Faster games and deeper teams will make the games competitive and fun.”

Munger added his club won’t necessarily need to make drastic changes in a tactical sense in order to keep up with its new rivals, but will instead improve as a result of facing tougher sides.

“The style of play we develop is going to stay the same,” he said. “The competition will push us to be sharper, but I expect the team to compete and raise their level of play regardless of who we play.”

Liberty Hill will open its season with seven consecutive away matches before returning home to host Rouse on Jan. 29, although that should result

is his team achieving the kind of cohesion needed for success that much quicker, said Munger.

“The away games were out of necessity, but traveling does allow for quick team chemistry,” he said. “Having that time on the road and playing in new places does bond a group.”

Following a missed opportunity for a state championship when last season wasn’t completed, Munger said his players are looking forward instead of back.

“I know the guys are excited for this year regardless of last year,” he said. “They know we could have competed in the playoffs, but I think they see that same potential this year.”

Thursday, January 7, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Coaching the future

Page B3

Varsity bench boss leads freshmen

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor These days, Liberty Hill head boys’ basketball coach Barry Boren finds himself someplace he hasn’t been for many years.

A couple hours before Boren leads the Panthers’ varsity onto the court, the veteran bench boss can be found on he sidelines for Liberty Hill’s freshmen contest – filling in for coach Tommy Foster, who is still on duty with the football team.

So, in the meantime, Boren is in charge of both squads – which provides a different perspective of the program than he would normally have, he said.

“The thing I like best about being able to do this is I’m present and aware of their individual and group progress because I have been with them and have witnessed it first hand every step of the way,” said Boren. “Another thing I really like about being in this position is I feel a true personal connection -- it wouldn’t be the same if I only observed them from a distance.”

As a result, Boren is able to impart sage advice to these impressionable, young basketball minds – wisdom he believes is more absorbed due to where it comes from.

“When I make an observation – whether it’s a criticism or a compliment – there can ALEX RUBIO PHOTO be little doubt it comes with Liberty Hill head boys’ varsity basketball coach Barry Boren a degree of thought and spechas also been leading the Panthers’ freshman squad this sea- ulation,” he said. “I believe son. because of my investment, the

kids get a sense of sincerity.”

According to Boren, quality of coaching at the freshman and junior varsity levels are just as important – if not more – than at the varsity level.

“The reality is better coaching should be required at the lower level than at the upper,” said Boren. “The reason is the players aren’t as accomplished, don’t retain teaching as well and their attention and retention isn’t as good.”

Makes sense in one way, but not the other, said Boren.

“When you observe the landscape, it’s usually the least qualified coach that coaches the freshman team,” he said. “It makes sense in the grand scheme of things the most accomplished coach heads the most accomplished team – the varsity. At Liberty Hill – at least at present – both are happening.”

However, Boren added having to focus on the freshmen in addition to his usual varsity responsibilities can cause a deficiency in the amount of energy he can devote to the senior squad.

“What I don’t like about the situation is it does take away from our varsity kids,” he said. “I normally get so emotionally engaged in the freshman game, it takes me a bit of time to calm down – that time spent trying to decompress is time I could be spending thinking about or talking about the varsity game that’s about to be played.”

While Boren is busy coaching

the freshmen, his varsity players simply watch what’s unfolding before springing into action themselves.

“It speaks volumes about our varsity kids they can gather and observe the freshman and JV games and then come together and be prepared to play,” he said. “Much of this, they’re doing without me, which makes that last few minutes before we hit the floor all that much more important.”

Although he definitely gets enjoyment coaching the younger players, he sometimes finds himself expecting a bit too much, too soon.

“The other thing I don’t like about coaching the freshmen is I lose my patience too easily,” said Boren. “I expect these kids to do things, at times, they’re just not ready to do. But, sometimes however, those high expectations pay dividends because these freshmen surprise themselves and me by doing things neither thought was capable.”

All that being said, Boren said his experience is more gratifying than frustrating, he said.

“I really like this group of freshmen kids – they’re very easy to be around and they want to please. They play hard, accept coaching and are excited to be there whether it’s practice or a game,” said Boren. “They come early and are willing to stay late. A coach – any coach – couldn’t ask for more and they’re learning.”

In addition to improving their skills on the court, the program’s young players are also being afforded the chance to better themselves off it.

“More importantly, they’re learning so many facets of life which will carry on into future endeavors – that’s the greatest takeaway,” he said. “This moment in time is but a speck of what is to come for every one of them. Hard work, togetherness, community, toughness, self-reliance, teamwork, perseverance, loyalty, setting and achieving goals, will power, sacrifice – the list could go on and on. What do they have to do with basketball? Everything.”

Through it all, though, Boren knows he’s only keeping the spot on the bench warm for Foster once football season is over.

“Tommy’s one of my favorite people in the whole, wide world,” he said. “He’s coaching football right now – he and the rest of that staff are on a mission. At some point, Tommy will join us and coach the freshmen. But, he won’t be alone. (Junior varsity coach Blake) Boren and I have invested too much with these guys. We, along with Coach Foster, will see them to the end of this season and the expectation is they will continue to grow and prosper as players and young men.”

BASKETBALL BRIEFS

On Dec. 30, Liberty Hill’s boys’ basketball squad played a road game against Glen Rose and came away with a 65-46 victory.

Anthony Sierras led the Panthers with 29 points, while Walker Weems added 10 in the victory.

Liberty Hill led 24-12 at the end of the first quarter and 39-22 at halftime.

Sierras and Weems both hit a pair of 3-pointers in the contest, with Zane Lauper, Kadin Knight and Hunter Clayton each added one.

Hays 76, Liberty Hill 64 Liberty Hill paid a visit to Hays on Jan. 2 and returned home with a 76-64 defeat at the hands of the Rebels.

Sierras and Knight led the Panthers with 19 points each in a game in which Liberty Hill led 25-16 after one period, but trailed by a 41-36 at the half, but then once again led 5250, after three quarters.

However, the home side outscored the Panthers by a 26-13 margin in the fourth.

Liberty Hill (14-2, 3-0) will next resume the district schedule with an away game against Glenn on Jan. 8 and a home date with Georgetown on Jan. 9.

(RIGHT) Hunter Clayton (#20) scored 19 points in Liberty Hill’s 7664 away loss to Hays on Jan. 2.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

SOCCER BRIEFS

Panthers win season opener

Liberty Hill’s boys’ soccer squad opened the new season with a 3-1 away victory over Salado on Dec. 29.

Kegan Taggart scored a pair of goals for the Panthers, while Sean Snelgrooes added another along with an assist.

Jessie Anaya and Mayson White also notched an assist each in the victory.

Liberty Hill (1-0) will next play in the Alamo Heights Invitational on Jan. 7-9 before facing Hutto in a road game on Jan. 12.

Lady Panthers drop opener

Liberty Hill’s girls’ soccer team played Dripping Springs on the road on Jan. 4 to open its season and was defeated by a score of 1-0.

Liberty Hill (0-1) will next play at the Rattler Round Up in San Marcos on Jan. 7-9.

Knox

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTO

Continued from Page B2

plenty of places to go and eat around the town.”

According to Liberty Hill head coach Steve Hutcherson, the fact Knox chose Tyler is mutually beneficial.

“Tyler is a very good program,” said Hutcherson.

“They look for guys that are very good baseball players and guys that have great qualities off the field as well – and that is definitely Jackson.”

Hutcherson added Knox has been the kind of player who has continued to move up the

improvement curve over the course of his Panthers career.

“Jackson is an extremely hard worker that has grown with each year and now will carry on with him to college,” he said. “His strength as a player is he’s very physically strong and that helps him with all aspects of the game. He’s a very good defensive player and can handle the bat very well against any level of pitching.”

Although the increased intensity in competition level can be quite challenging for even

the most accomplished highschool players upon arrival at the college level, Hutcherson believes Knox will have a smooth transition, he said.

“Jackson seems to adjust really well to all situations, so I think the speed of the game will be something he will have an easier time adjusting to,” said Hutcherson. “He’s very level-headed and handles both success and failure with a very good demeanor. Off the field, because he’s such a calm and collected person, I think he

(LEFT) Kegan Taggart (#11) scored a pair of goals in Liberty Hill’s 3-1 season-opening away win against Salado on Dec. 29.

will do very well in life because of his even-keel personality.”

Exactly how hard has Knox worked to get the opportunity to play in college?

Weight-room roll call says it all.

“I always go back to the summer of 2019 when we had open weight room,” said Hutcherson. “I don’t know that Jackson missed any day unless maybe he was out of town playing baseball. In fact, there were many days in which

he was the only player in the weight room trying to get better.”

But, then again, that’s Knox in a nutshell.

“I feel like my biggest strength is my hitting and my work ethic,” said Knox, who will study business. “But, the one thing I need to work on is not letting stuff get into my head as much.”

Knox knows he’s about to embark on what will be an athletic and academic endeavor unlike any he’s ever encoun-

tered.

“I feel like the biggest challenge on the field is the higher level of play,” he said. “The pitchers will throw a lot harder and the ball will get hit a lot farther. My biggest challenge off the field is probably being on top of my school work, but it feels good to sign and have a place to play after high school.”

Page B4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Panthers punch ticket to UIL State Semifinal

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor SAN ANTONIO -- For nearly three months of the season, Liberty Hill coasted and the Panther faithful could sit back and just enjoy the show.

Recent victories, though, are coming with health advisories for the faint of heart.

After averaging 45-point victory margins through 10 games – including the first two playoff contests – the Panthers held on for a 14-point win against Rouse, and ran out the clock Saturday for a three-point victory to send Pioneer packing with a 56-53 win.

“It’s crazy,” said head coach Kent Walker, taking a deep breath. “I’m so proud of our coaches and our kids. In everything we’ve done and we’ve overcome, I tear up just thinking about it.”

Early in the contest it appeared the Panthers might dominate the game on both sides of the ball. The Diamondbacks opened with a three-andout as Panther defender Carter Hudson batted down a pass on a long third down, forcing a punt.

In Liberty Hill offensive style, a 47-yard run by Trey Seward on first down and a 28yard touchdown run by Blake Simpson gave the Panthers a 7-0 lead less than two minutes into the game.

The next Pioneer drive went over on downs as the Panther defense stiffened deep in its own territory, and on the fourth play of the next drive Simpson broke it open with an 80-yard sprint for a 14-0 lead before all the fans were even in their seats.

Unfortunately for the Panthers those first four minutes were not reflective of the 44 minutes of the contest remaining.

Pioneer bounced back, and the two heavyweight offenses traded punches for the rest of the game, with each defense

looking for a way to slow the opponent. Walker was not happy with the overall play of the defense, but said timely plays made a difference.

“We made a few stops when we needed to,” Walker said.

“We kept putting points on the board, and defensively we just had to get a couple of stops and we had some key plays when we needed them.”

Inopportune penalties and some key fourth-down conversions by the Diamondbacks kept the Panthers from creating a comfortable separation.

“We just have to be a little more disciplined,” Walker said. “Some of the calls were a little iffy, but we’ve got to be more disciplined. It all boils down to us needing to play a lot better.”

Pioneer was stopped on three fourth down attempts, but also converted on three others.

“Fourth down conversions are what really hurt us on defense,” Walker said. “That killed us. We had three stops on fourth down, but we also gave up way to many.”

Even with eight scores on more than 700 yards rushing, the Panthers could have had more. Three touchdown runs were negated by penalties, and the Panthers ultimately scored on one of those drives, but not the other two.

“They never really stopped us,” Walker said. “The penalties stopped us on drives and then we fumbled a couple of times. We only stopped ourselves.”

Simpson again led the way with 305 yards on 21 carries and five scores, saying the offense is just focused on getting the job done.

“If our line keeps showing up like they are and our running backs keep showing up we’re going to go all the way,” Simpson said. “We’re going to win as a team.”

Seward finished with 190 yards on 13 carries and a

touchdown, and Eric De La Cruz found the end zone twice, rushing for 189 yards on 13 carries. Noah Long had four carries for 23 yards. In all, the offense churned out 707 yards on 51 carries in the win. The performance put the Panthers at 5,089 yards on the season, averaging 10 yards per tote.

“The offensive line deserves a lot of credit as well, they’re doing a great job blocking up front,” Walker said. “Our backs are running hard. It’s a combination of the line doing well, running backs running hard and coaches doing a great job on the offensive side of the ball.”

Though the stat line doesn’t always reflect the key contribution, Walker said the play and leadership of quarterback Charlie Calabretta has been critical.

“Charlie has been huge this year,” Walker said of his quarterback’s leadership. “Charlie will come off to the sideline and let the coaches know what he sees. He’s done a great job of managing this offense this year. I’m extremely proud of

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Eric De La Cruz was one of three Panthers running backs that eclipsed 100 yards in the win over Pioneer, scoring twice on 189 yards rushing. how he has handled running the offense.”

Pioneer quarterback Eddie Marburger – who has signed a national letter of intent to play football for the University of Texas at San Antonio next year – was as advertised, throwing for 457 yards and six touchdowns, while running for two more on a 115-yard rushing night. He put the ball up 60 times in the shootout.

“The Marburger kid is a

Only a game against Crosby Friday stands between the Panthers and a return trip to the UIL State Championship game – this time in 5A. The pair will clash Jan. 8 at Merrill Green Stadium in Bryan, and the Panthers plan to keep having fun through this title run.

“This is a lot of fun, it’s exhilarating,” Simpson said. “I love it.”

Road through region 4

liberty hill panthers

ROUSE MERCEDES

57 28

LIBERTY HILL CHAMPION

41 0

ROUSE 42 LIBERTY HILL 56

LIBERTY HILL 56 PIONEER 53

ALAMO HEIGHTS 14 EAST VIEW 48 EAST VIEW PIONEER

64 77

PIONEER MARBLE FALLS

PANTHER R LAST WEEK’S RECORD OVERALL RECORD

special, special kid,” Walker said. “He’s a heck of a football player. But we didn’t play very well defensively. We allowed them to do things we normally don’t do and that was frustrating.”

But even with the big numbers for Marburger, some key pass deflections and a pair of interceptions – the one by Bourgeois and another by Kaden McMahan – helped the Panthers hold on for the win.

54 47

ROUSE 62

NE EARLY COLLEGE 0

MERCEDES 41

FLORESVILLE 34

LIBERTY HILL 51 CHAMPION 56

GLENN 0 EDCOUCH ELSA 19

ALAMO HEIGHTS 34 PHARR-SAN JUAN 0

McCALLUM 14 PIONEER 42 BRENHAM 24

EAST VIEW 49 MEDINA VALLEY 23 MARBLE FALLS 27

PICKS

Bret Smith

Seth Slye

Jay Baker

Jamie Etzkorn

Travis Reid

JD Davis

Scott Aknewich

Owner Goosehead Insurance

Graphic Designer Two Brand It

CEO American Water Kinetico

Owner Jamie Etzkorn Law

Owner Reid’s Triple T

Owner Davis Tire & Automotive

Sports Editor Liberty Hill Independent

8-4 103-51

8-4 110-44

9-3 97-54

8-4 104-50

5-7 85-69

9-3 106-48

7-5 96-58

Congratulations to Seth Slye at Two Brand It for his season record of 110-44!

A big thank you to our Panther Picks sponsors and to everyone that played along each week.

Congratulations to last week’s winner: MELISSA WILSON

WEEKLY WINNER RECEIVES A TEE FROM TWO BRAND IT (up to $20 value)

A PERFECT BALLOT WINS $50 CASH! YOUR LIBERTY HILL TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR EXPERTS

FULL SERVICE AUTOMOTIVE SHOP GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES HEATING & A/C REPAIR ELECTRICAL SERVICES TRANSMISSION & ENGINE REPAIR TIRE SALES, ROTATION & BALANCING

THE POWER OF CHOICE

BRET SMITH | 512-548-6900 bret.smith@goosehead.com

Specializing in Water Filtration Since 1987

512-388-0022 www.AmericanWaterTX.com Water Softeners • Filtration • Reverse Osmosis Systems Specializing in Non-Electric • Dual Tank Technology City & Well Water • Residential & Commercial Authorized Independent Kinetico Dealer

530 S IH 35, Round Rock

Thursday, January 7, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page B5

ALEX RUBIO PHOTOS

Panther fans are best!

Liberty Hill fans have followed the Panthers along their victorious pursuit of a State Championship.

On Friday, the team plays Crosby in Bryan for a berth in the 5A Division 2 State Championship game Jan. 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

HOMES AROUND THE HILL

Residential, Luxury, Farm & Ranch

Real Life. Real People. Real Estate.

Kristen Childers REALTOR®

Tammy Wise REALTOR®

(512) 501 501-0777 AustinAndHillCountryRealEstate.com

900 Quest Parkway Cedar Park, TX 78613

“Our family of seasoned professional agents is what makes us unique.

We’re here to help you, whether it’s selling your property or assisting in finding and purchasing the home of your dreams.”

Residential • Farm and Ranch Minerals • Land and Leasing

Dax Oglesby

REALTOR®, RPL daxoglesbysgrhomes@gmail.com

(512) 635-7529

3103 Ranch Road 1869 Liberty Hill

www.DaxSellsTexas.com

Adrienne Hughes Broker/Owner

512-810-0185

Cheryl Stephens Realtor ®, GRI, MRP

512-417-0026

3106 Ranch Road 1869 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | www.Hughes-and-Company.com

Page B6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 7, 2021

CLASSIFIED ADS $10/week for Minimum 30 Words Additional Words $0.20 Deadline Noon Tuesdays NEWS@LHINDEPENDENT.COM (512) 778-5577

REAL ESTATE FOR LEASE. 2 Bedroom 2 Bath, 1000-square-foot corner unit. 2224 RR 1869 Unit B, $1075 rent with $500 deposit.

Pet deposit $500. Agent (512) 913-1132.

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SERVICES ALL STAR ROOFING 512-635-4936. Local, family owned since 1976 serving Liberty Hill & surrounding areas.

Commercial and residential roof replacements & repairs. www.allstarrooďŹ ngtexas.com.

Check us out online.

(1/21p) SELL YOUR UNIQUE home made or grown items locally!

The Market At Indian Mound Ranch is currently accepting Vendors for the 2021 Season.

Saturday’s 9-1 weather permitting. $20 space fee. 12805 SH 29 W. Send email to imr1873@ gmail.com for details.

PUBLIC NOTICES ANNUAL NOTICE OF ADDRESS OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 4, 301 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642.

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.

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LEGAL NOTICES COPYRIGHT NOTICE Copyright Notice: All rights reserved re common-law copyright of trade-name/trademark, ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ --- as well as any and all derivatives and variations in the spelling of said trade-name/trade-mark--Common Law Copyright Š 2008 by Anthony Rene VanceŠ. Said common-law trade-name/trade-mark, ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, may neither be used, nor reproduced, neither in whole nor in part, nor in any manner whatsoever, without the prior, express, written consent and acknowledgment of Anthony Rene VanceŠ as signiďŹ ed by the red-ink signature of Antho-

ny Rene VanceŠ, hereinafter “Secured Party.â€? With the intent of being contractually bound, any juristic person, as well as the agent of said juristic person, consents and agrees by this Copyright Notice that neither said juristic person, nor the agent of said juristic person, shall display, nor otherwise use in any manner, the common-law trade-name/ trade-mark ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, nor the common-law copyright described herein, nor any derivative of, nor any variation in the spelling of, ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ without the prior, express, written consent and acknowledgment of Secured Party, as signiďŹ ed by Secured Party signature in red ink. Secured Party neither grants, nor implies, nor otherwise gives consent for any unauthorized use of ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, and all such unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Secured Party is not now nor has Secured Party ever been, an accommodation party, nor a surety, for the purported debtor, i.e. “ANTHONY RENE VANCE,â€? nor for any derivative of, nor for any variation in the spelling of, said name, nor for any other juristic person, and is so-indemniďŹ ed and held harmless by Debtor, i.e. “ANTHONY RENE VANCE,â€? in Hold-harmless and Indemnity Agreement No. ARV-042608-HHIA dated the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Fourth Month in the Year of Our Lord Two Thousand Eight against any and all claims, legal actions, orders, warrants, judgments, demands, liabilities, losses, depositions, summonses, lawsuits, costs, ďŹ nes, liens, levies, penalties, damages, interests, and expenses whatsoever, both absolute and contingent, as are due and as might become due, now existing and as might hereafter arise, and as might be suffered by, imposed on, and incurred

by Debtor for any and every reason, purpose, and cause whatsoever.

Self-executing Contract/Security Agreement in Event of Unauthorized Use: By this Copyright Notice, both the juristic person and the agent of said juristic person hereinafter jointly and severally “User,â€? consent agree that any use of ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ other than authorized use as set forth above constitutes unauthorized use, counterfeiting, of Secured Party’s common-law copyrighted property, contractually binds User, renders this Copyright Notice a Security Agreement wherein User is debtor and Anthony Rene VanceŠ is Secured Party, and signiďŹ es that User: (1) grants Secured Party a security interest in all of User’s assets, land, and personal property, and all of User’s interest in assets, land, and personal property, in the sum cer-

S E RV I C E

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Your Official Texas Sticker Shop O 512-548-6773

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tain amount of $500,000.00 per each occurrence of use of the common-law-copyrighted trade-name/trade-mark ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, as well as for each and every occurrence of use of any and all derivatives of, and variations in the spelling of, ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, plus costs, plus triple damages; (2) authenticates this Security Agreement wherein User is debtor and Anthony Rene VanceŠ is Secured Party, and wherein User pledges all of User’s assets, land, consumer goods, farm products, inventory, equipment, money, investment property, commercial tort claims, letters of credit, letter-of-credit rights, chattel paper, instruments, deposit accounts, accounts, documents, and general intangibles, and all User’s interest in all such foregoing property, now owned and hereafter acquired, now existing and hereafter arising, and wherever located, as collateral for securing User’s contractual obligation in favor of Secured Party for User’s unauthorized use of Secured Party’s common-law-copyrighted property; (3) consents and agrees with Secured Party’s ďŹ ling of UCC Financing Statement in the UCC ďŹ ling ofďŹ ce, as well as in any country recorder’s ofďŹ ce, wherein User is debtor and Anthony Rene VanceŠ is Secured Party; (4) consents and agrees that said UCC Financing Statement described above in paragraph “(3)â€? is a continuing ďŹ nancing statement, and further consents and agrees with Secured Par-

ty’s ďŹ ling of any continuation statement necessary for maintaining Secured Party’s perfected security interest in all of User’s property and interest in property, pledged as collateral in this Security Agreement and described above in paragraph, “(2),â€? until User’s contractual obligation therefore incurred has been fully satisďŹ ed; (5) consents and agrees with Secured Party’s ďŹ ling of any UCC Financing Statements, as described above in paragraph “(3)â€? and “(4),â€? as well as the ďŹ ling of any Security Agreements, as described above in paragraph “(2),â€? in the UCC ďŹ ling ofďŹ ce, as well as in any county recorder’s ofďŹ ce; (6) consents and agrees that any and all such ďŹ lings described in paragraphs “(4)â€? and “(5)â€? above are not, and may not be considered, bogus, and that User will not claim that any such ďŹ ling is bogus; (7) waives all defenses; and (8) appoints Secured Party as Authorized Representative for User, effective upon User’s default re User’s contractual obligations in favor of Secured Party as set forth below under “Payment Termsâ€? and “Default Terms,â€? granting Secured Party sole discretion, deems appropriate, and User further consents and agrees that this appointment of Secured Party as Authorized Representative for User, effective upon User’s default, is irrevocable and coupled with a security interest. User further consents and agrees with all of the following additional terms of Self-executing Contract/Security Agreement in Event of

Unauthorized Use: Payment Terms: In accordance with fees for unauthorized use of ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ as set forth above, User hereby consents and agrees that User shall pay Secured Party all unauthorized-use fees in full within ten (10) days of the date User is sent Secured Party invoice, hereinafter “Invoice,� itemizing said fees. Default Terms: In event of non-payment in full of all unauthorized-use fees by User within ten (10) days of date Invoice is sent, User shall be deemed in default and: (a) all of User’s property and property pledged as collateral by User as set forth in above paragraph “(2),� immediately becomes, i.e. is, property of Secured Party; (b) Secured Party is appointed User’s Authorized Representative as set forth above in paragraph “(8)�; and (c) User consents and agrees that Secured Party may take possession of, as well as otherwise dispose of in any manner that Secured Party, in Secured Party’s sole discretion, deems appropriate, including, but not limited by, sale at auction, at any time following User’s default, and without further notice, any and all of User’s property and interest, described above in paragraph “(2),� formerly pledged as collateral by User, now property of Secured Party, in respect of this “Self-executing Contract/ Security Agreement in Event of Unauthorized Use,� that Secured party , again in Secured Party’s sole discretion, deems appropriate. Terms of Curing Default: Upon event of default,

More Liberty Hill Living to Love in 2021 Six years after the launch of the first annual issue of Liberty Hill Living, we’re excited to announce the community magazine will be delivered to Liberty Hill area homes five times in 2021! Packed with more indepth articles, professional photography and regular features on local business, cooking, home and garden, travel, history and entertainment – each issue holds something for everyone without the long wait!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR SALES OPPORTUNITIES! (512) 778-5577 or Stacy@LHIndependent.com www.LibertyHillLiving.com • 921 Loop 332, Liberty Hill TX 78642

OVERALL INSPECTION SERVICES

WE INSPECT FOR: • Existing & previous moisture problems • Carbon monoxide detection • Why is that room so hot or cold? • Foundation & structural problems • All mechanical, electrical plumbing & HVAC We can help locate problems in your home!

Infrared Camera Technology

Ken Cofer - Professional Real Estate Inspector Certified Infrared Thermographer Insured & Bonded - TREC #20262 (512) 639-9166 kencofer@gmail.com www.overallinspectionservices.com P.O. Box 953, Bertram TX • TECL#32830

as set forth above under “Default Terms,â€? irrespective of any and all of User’s default only re the remainder of User’s said former property and interest property, formerly pledged as collateral that is neither in the possession of, nor otherwise disposed of by, Secured Party within twenty (20) days of date of User’s default only by payment in full. Terms of Strict Foreclosure: User’s non-payment in Full of all unauthorized-use fees itemized in Invoice within said twenty(20) day period for curing default as set forth above under “Terms for Curing Defaultâ€? authorizes Secured Party immediate non-judicial strict foreclosure on any and all remaining former property and interest in property, formerly pledged as collateral by User, now property of Secured Party, which is not in the possession of, nor otherwise disposed of by, Secured Party upon expiration of said twenty- (20) day default-curing period. Ownership subject to common-law copyright and UCC Financing Statement and Security Agreement ďŹ led with the UCC ďŹ ling ofďŹ ce. Record owner: Anthony Rene VanceŠ, Autograph Common Law Copyright Š 2008. Unauthorized use of “Anthony Rene Vanceâ€? incurs same unauthorized-use fees as those associated with ANTHONY RENE VANCEŠ, as set forth above in paragraph “(1)â€? under “Self-executing Contract/Security Agreement in Event of Unauthorized Use.â€?

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An Overall Inspection is your Best Protection!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY YOUR LOCAL RESOURCE FOR LIBERTY HILL AREA BUSINESSES

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