LH Independent 12-17-20

YOU ROCK, LHHS PANTHERS! #walkertough

Curbside pickup and delivery available! Open Mon-Sat 7am-5pm • 14775 W SH 29, Liberty Hill • (512) 515-1336 • www.989Rock.com

2020

Volume 34, Issue 4

www.LHIndependent.com

News@LHIndependent.com

December 17, 2020 | 50 Cents

Council The great escape shuts down When a birthday celebration attempted becomes so much more budget review

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor In what appeared to be an effort to stifle the review and discussion of the current City budget promised by newly-elected Mayor Liz Branigan, the Council voted unanimously to block the review placed on the Monday meeting agenda by Branigan.

Branigan campaigned on the issue of reviewing the budget as well as City revenues and expenses and has said since her swearing-in last month that much of the information she has requested has been slow to come, though she said last week that was improving.

But Monday, Council member Kathy Canady immediately moved that the item be postponed until July, effectively avoiding the review until it was time to consider the next proposed budget next summer.

“I appreciate your interest in the budget, but due to the fact this year’s budget has been passed, the appropriate public hearings have been passed by a 5-0 vote, I’d like to postpone this to July,” Canady said.

“That’s when we start on the next budget.”

The Council voted 5-0 to postpone the review and discussion, killing any opportunity Monday for review.

“This is a budget that has had the public hearings, a budget that had a 5-0 vote to accept and I appreciate that you want to look into it, but for us we’ve already done that,” she said.

What Canady’s objection didn’t take into account were questions about how the budget funds were being spent in spite of the budget as approved.

In response to questions from The Independent, Canady accused the newspaper of not taking an interest in the budget process at budget time.

“The paper seemed to have no interest in the process at the time and it was passed by unanimous vote of the council,” Canady wrote in her response.

“The mayor as a private citizen

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor Birthdays come and go.

Punctuated by the brief celebration of another year in what is expected to be many in life, they are often ultimately marking time.

But sometimes a birthday transcends marking a milestone, truly becoming a celebration of life, and maybe an escape from the fear of an unknown future.

That was the unexpected reality that unfolded for Megan Beatty as she watched a simple celebration of her young daughter’s life lift her family above all the stress and heartache – at least for a time.

The party, thrown by strangers to celebrate Haley and her mother’s birthdays on Dec. 22, 2018, set Beatty on a path she continues to blaze today.

In May 2018, the family was hit with the diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leuke-

mia, commonly referred to as ALL, for Haley, who had been battling a mysterious illness that left her with headaches, vomiting and other issues throughout her Kindergarten year.

The journey for families is more than just the debilitating news that a child has cancer.

It reaches into every part of life, impacting family relationships, finances, personal well-being and more.

“This alters every component of life they knew before, requiring significant adjustments to their everyday life,” said Apollonia Ellis, a Pediatric Oncology Social Worker at Dell Children’s Hospital.

“It impacts the family, other children in the home, interpersonal relationships, friendships, marriages, education, employment and it takes a toll on the family’s socioeconomic situation. We play a part in helping offer support with

those external and internal stressors or barriers.”

After a whirlwind of diagnosis, surgery, treatments and one doctor visit after another, the Beatty family had just gone through a few difficult rounds of a stronger chemotherapy over Thanksgiving time. That’s when it happened.

“It was just so crazy busy, and I feel like a group of people reached out to me and said they heard Haley had a birthday coming up,” Beatty said.

“I said I had one too, we have one the same week, and they got together and threw this giant magical birthday party for us and it was such a distraction. It was at a much-needed time. She was doing pretty bad at the time because she had lost so much weight from chemo.”

The experience so moved Beatty, she was instantly inspired to bring that same

Collision damages Rio Gabriel

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor Rio Gabriel Liquors sustained major damage Dec. 10 after a collision on SH 29 sent a vehicle through the front of the building.

No one in the store was injured, and Manager Teresa Garner’s sister Jackie Wilburn was the only person there at the time.

“She had just left the front aisle and was servicing a customer at the drive through window,” Garner said. “They heard the noise and the customer yelled something to her and she hit the ground at the moment the vehicle hit the window.

She was shaken up but not injured.”

According to Liberty Hill Police Chief Royce Graeter, one vehicle was westbound

MIKE EDDLEMAN PHOTO

A collision on SH 29 sent one vehicle through the front of Rio See CRASH, Page A6 Gabriel Liquor Store on SH 29 in Liberty Hill.

The parties are often over the top and create memories for a lifetime, including visits from special characters and even parades to mark the exciting occasion. (Courtesy Photo) respite to others coping with similar struggles.

“I knew that day that it was so cool and that I wanted to do this for kids whenever Haley is

at the end of this,” Beatty said.

In November, Haley had her most recent check up and she

See BIRTHDAY, Page A5

LHISD closes High School to ease staffing strain due to shortages

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor Students at Liberty Hill High School closed out the final week of the fall semester working remotely through final exams due to the district’s need to bolster staffing across other campuses before the holiday break.

The announcement came late Monday afternoon, when a letter was sent home to parents.

The decision was not related to COVID-19 case numbers on any campus, but on the growing difficulty of finding substitutes and filling other staffing shortages due to the number of people on quarantine.

“This decision is based on the need for substitutes and support staff on other campuses,

the number of staff needing to quarantine, and the flexibility of the high school online final exam schedule for this week. High School staff members will report to campus and work individually in their classrooms to assist students as they take their finals,” Superintendent Steve Snell wrote to parents.

District officials said as quarantine numbers have increased it has become more difficult to meet all staffing needs, but they are now making a push through a marketing campaign to attract substitutes.

Liberty Hill ISD currently has 30 active cases reported, and 111 total since July. There are

See COVID, Page A6

BUSINESS

See BUDGET, Page A4

HOLIDAY PUBLICATION SCHEDULE The deadline for the Dec. 24 edition of The Liberty Hill Independent is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, as our print schedule is adjusted for the Christmas holidays. The office will be closed Dec. 22-25, and will open again Dec. 28. ©2020 The Liberty Hill Independent

Chamber welcomes Blinded by the Light

The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand opening recently of Blinded by the Light with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. The business owner is Deb Lohman (holding scissors). The store, located at 14125 W. SH 29, sells accent furniture, home decor, lamps and window coverings.

(Courtesy Photo by Deborah Reinhard)

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN! Reader voting for the 3rd Annual Best of Liberty Hill is now open!

Winners and runners-up Have a favorite local pizza joint? How about a dog groomer? will be announced in our Best boss? Favorite plumber? Best Margarita? With over 100 Feb. 2021 issue of Liberty Hill Living! categories, you can vote on all those and more. Just go online CAST YOUR VOTES and fill out your ballot by 5 p.m. Dec. 25. www.LHIndependent.com/best-of-liberty-hill

Page A2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 17, 2020

OBITUARY Robert Paul Major

YOUR LIBERTY HILL HEADQUARTERS FOR PANTHER GEAR!

Robert Paul Major, 73, of Alvin passed away on December 9, 2020. He was born in Hahira, Georgia, to John Major and Jackie Frost. He moved from Liberty Hill to Alvin and had been a resident for 14 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Major and Jackie Frost; stepfather, Chester Lonsford; and sister, Anita Finkel.

Bobby graduated from St. Edward’s High School in Austin and later attended the University of Houston.

Bobby loved sports of all kinds - bird hunting, coaching girls’ softball, bowling, even playing for the Nassau Bay Bombers rugby team for a couple of years. He was a big fan of all the Houston pro teams: Astros, Rockets, Oilers (and now Texans). He knew his way around a barbecue pit, too, and for a number of years was on a team that competed in various cook-offs—the team often dressing in western outfits and staging gunfights to draw in the crowds.

Bobby was a longtime pa-

tron of Griff’s sports bar in the Montrose area, where he was known as “Tank,” and he was a longtime employee of Shepler Construction Equipment and Western Wear. Always family-oriented, Bobby loved going to the beach and going crabbing with his family, and spent many evenings at the family dining-room table playing board games and card games. And his prowess at telling funny stories and jokes was legendary.

In his later years he loved relaxing on the porch and playing with his grandchildren.

Left to cherish Bobby’s memory are his children: Derek Machart and wife Monica, Danna Thurston and husband Randy, and Amber Major; brothers: Estes Major and wife Kathy, Jack Major and Michael Lonsford; grandchildren: Noah and Mikaela Machart, Randy III, Cody and Landry Thurston; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

Private services by invitation will be held at the Froberg Fu-

Williamson County Pct. 4 Commissioner Russ Boles informed the court Dec. 8 that he would like to postpone the creation of a committee to discuss the possible removal of the controversial Confederate Statue in front of the courthouse in Georgetown.

“I had previously brought to the court the idea of a committee to discuss the Confederate statue on the historic courthouse grounds,” said Boles. “I had mentioned December as a date, I know that the court’s calendar has been full. I still intend to bring that forward in January, probably the second half of January. I will be

asking each commissioner and judge to appoint three members. Holly Coe will be the chair.”

Over the last three years, opposite sides have clashed multiple times on the topic of the statue located at the south entrance of the courthouse.

Protests have been held weekly both in favor and against removal of the statue.

With tensions reaching a boiling point over the summer because of protests and riots around the nation, the statue found itself under a brighter spotlight. In response to calls for it’s removal and the defense for it remaining, Boles

neral Home at Oak Park, 300 Oak Park Drive, Alvin, Texas, 77511. Visitation is at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 17, 2020 and the Memorial Service begins at 3:00 p.m. Flowers are welcome; contributions may be sent to the above address.

To join in the celebration of Bobby’s life, we welcome you to attend the Memorial Service virtually by Facebook livestream. Search for private group “In Memory of Bob Major” and request to join in advance.

Services will be streamed live here beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 17, 2020.

Statue committee postponed

accessor-EyEs your home

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE!

M-F 8-6 • SAT 8-4 • TwoBrandIt.com

Holiday Market Saturday, Dec 19th 8AM-4PM (Weather Permitting) Now Accepting Vendors for

Holiday Gifts • Vintage/Boutique Items Baked Goods • Direct Sales Hand Crafts and Art • Booth Space $30

Thursday 12/17

Accent Furniture | Home Décor | Lamps | Window Coverings Holiday Hours Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm sat: 10am-5pm sun: 1pm– 5pm

512-636-9653 | BlindedByTheLightDecor.com Water Tower Plaza | 14125 W Hwy 29 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642

The Liberty Hill Independent YOUR AWARD-WINNING HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1987

~~ A Publication of Texas Independent News Corp. ~~

(512) 778-5577

Send Email: news@lhindependent.com www.LHIndependent.com www.LibertyHillLiving.com PO Box 1235 | 921 Loop 332 Liberty Hill, TX 78642

CHRISTMAS at the

Ranch

The Liberty Hill Independent is published every Thursday at 921 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, TX 78642.

Periodical Postage Paid at Liberty Hill, Texas.

Publication #018932 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Liberty Hill Independent, PO Box 1235, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 Shelly Wilkison - Publisher Mike Eddleman - Managing Editor Stacy Coale - Media Specialist Scott Akanewich - Sports Editor Anthony Flores - Staff Writer Rachel Madison - Staff Writer

For more information, visit IndianMoundRanchtx.com/vendors 12805 W. Hwy 29 • Liberty Hill, TXwwwIndianMoundRanchTX.com (956) 312-9263 • Imr1873@gmail.com • Facebook.com/IMRMarket

raised the idea of a committee to determine its historical significance.

“The specific topic of the committee – what I’d like to see – is some history about the statue and potential options if the court sees fit to move it,” said Boles. “I’m not looking for a referendum from the committee but I’m looking for them to help us with some information and possible options.”

Pct. 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long said, “Commissioner Boles placed the item on the agenda originally, and I respect his decision on the timing for naming the committee.”

DEADLINE Noon Monday prior to Thursday publication

2020

SUBSCRIPTIONS

$25 per year in Williamson County, $29 per year in Texas outside of Williamson County, and $32 per year outside Texas.

ADVERTISING

DISPLAY RATES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Liberty Hill Independent welcomes letters to the editor, but requests that letters be limited to 300 words or less and address issues rather than personalities. Unsigned letters or those deemed unacceptable by the publisher will not be published. Children under the age of 17 must have signed parental permission. Phone numbers and addresses must be included for verification purposes.

Opinions expressed in the articles, letters and columns do not reflect the views of The Liberty Hill Independent or its owners.

COPYRIGHT

The entire contents of each issue of The Liberty Hill Independent, including editorial and advertising copy, is protected under the Federal Copyright Act. Reproduction of any portion of any issue will not be permitted without the express written permission of The Liberty Hill Independent.

Follow The Independent on Social Media!

Facebook.com/LibertyHillIndependent

@LHIndependent

OPINION The in-person meeting

By WILT CUTTER Columnist I hadn’t seen my friend in quite some time although we’d been communicating via texts, emails and a couple of phone calls. And now suddenly, without much notice, we are arranging an in-person meeting that is critical, timely, important and can’t be accomplished on Zoom.

How we met as young folks so long ago is now in dispute.

Truth is, we’ve been part of one another’s lives for decades. Sometimes close and intense because of work and sometimes distant allies. Always wishing one another well and always planning to catch up. Passing one another in airports, seeing one another across the room at functions.

Waving to one another on the street. “Liking� one another’s posts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Now all the facilitators and peripheral players have backed away and closed the door and

suddenly it’s the two young people, currently trapped in senior citizen bodies talking through masks, but still talking over one another, reminding one another of the crazy circumstances of a relationship that has spanned 40 years.

We barely are seated before we are asking questions about our kids, making sure we are current on the health scare and who is married to who and who isn’t.

My friend began the decade-long debate as to the very deďŹ nite details of our ďŹ rst meeting. We are transported across the years and he makes the compelling argument about how it all happened and when our journey began. I listen patiently to the warmth and familiarity of the voice I’ve known for so long. If I had closed my eyes it would have sounded the same as it always has. I asked if he was sure that our ďŹ rst meeting wasn’t actually a year before at a certain event and suddenly he’s switched sides in the debate, agreeing that we’ve known one another even longer than he thought.

Our business conversation is sing song. We gently joust on issues, we joke about costs, slowly honing in on a decision that we have already made in our minds a long time ago. The convo becomes cleaner, not pointed. Clearer, more candid, not convoluted. Words aren’t wasted, passions and emotions are in a protected environment of brotherhood. Compromises come easier than they would have in 2019. We are committed to making something happen that will be good for a great deal of people. Head nods, acceptance is at hand.

I stand to open the door and invite in the young people who will be rewording documents and preparing for a formal agreement. The ďŹ nalization can be handled by stamped signatures and emails and a lawyer or two. I glance back and he hasn’t moved. I sit back down, 6 feet away and ask if he had any additional changes or if we had forgotten anything of importance. No, he said, remaining seated. I leaned back against the cushion of the chair and looked at him quizzically.

Our young helpers left the

room again.

We continued sitting in silence for a few more minutes when he began trying to thank me for some assistance regarding the death of a parent.

I held up my hand to stop the conversation. No, he said he had something to say. And he did. And we both sat six feet apart with tears in our eyes questioning how in the world all the years had poured past us like a broken down dam.

I got up to retrieve a box of Kleenex from a nearby table and he laughed and waved me off. I made an old man sound getting up and going down. I complained about the elliptical. He said it was birthdays, not gym equipment. “Ever even dream it would turn out this good?� he asks. “Oh, hell no,� I tell him. He tells me a story about his wife always being a true believer.

He points to a picture of one of my kids. “Is that the one you changed the diaper on the hood of your car at the airport that time?�

The sun was falling in through the West windows

Operation Liberty Hill seeks new home

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Driving toward Liberty Hill on US 183, it’s impossible to miss the stone thrift store and sign that reads Operation Liberty Hill (OLH). The OLH thrift store and food pantry are a vital part of the community.

Since moving to the current location in 2015 growing demand has put a strain on the existing facilities. “When we moved to this location, we began serving Leander, Bertram, and Briggs in addition to the Liberty Hill school district,� said Operation Liberty Hill Executive Director Susan Baker. “During the COVID Pandemic, it has become increasingly obvious how we have outgrown our current facility.�

With new neighborhoods popping up, the thrift store is struggling to keep up with donations. “We can’t house all the donations, and we’re running out of space on many days,� said Baker. “Most days, we have to close our donation intake for the store in the afternoon because we don’t have any more room. We’re even doing construction on the double-wide on the property. It’s been a process trying to intake the donations.�

A new storage unit was recently provided to house more of their nonperishable food items.

Even with that addition, Baker says more space is necessary. “Because the numbers are going up in the pantry, we need to have more food on hand,

As Liberty Hill continues to grow, Operation Liberty Hill is ready to ďŹ nd a new, larger location to better serve the community. and that means we need more space,â€? she said. “Even though we can purchase more food and have food drives, if we don’t have a place for that, it’s hard.â€?

The pandemic may have shined a brighter spotlight on the need for more space, but Baker says this is an issue she already saw on the horizon. “COVID has been a major change for us and how we do things and increased the number of people we were serving. Even before that, we were already busting at the seams here,� she said. “We were experiencing a lot more donations to the thrift store due to all the new subdivisions around us.

The type of donations has improved, and we’re making more money in the thrift store.�

When OLH moved into its current location, it was exactly what was needed, and Baker believes it was a gift from above. “In 2015, our board chair found the facility where we are. Williamson County has allowed us to lease the facility that used to

house Life Springs Church on Hwy 183,â€? said Baker. “It was so perfect for our food pantry, ďŹ rst thrift store, and even had room for a church to meet upstairs. We were and still are in awe of how God has worked.â€?

The original lease for the land OLH sits on was set for ďŹ ve years, with an option for a ďŹ veyear renewal that was picked up. At the end of their next ďŹ ve years, the property will go up for public bid, a move that takes OLH out of the running ďŹ nancially. Baker is looking at all options and hopes the community can play a part in their

eventual fate. “We would like to have two or three acres of land donated to us so we can begin applying for grants to build,� said Baker. “Ideally, it would be great to have existing buildings where we could move in. We are open to all possibilities. Even an opportunity to purchase the land where we are would be wonderful. God has unlimited resources, and we are trusting Him every step of the way.�

To learn how you can help, contact Baker at (512) 7784175.

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, December 17, 2020 Section A Page 3

EDITORIAL:

Are we getting what we’re paying for?

Christmas bonus anyone?

For two City Council members, a Monday decision by the Council to provide some odd form of back pay has resulted in a holiday chunk of change -- at taxpayers’ expense, of course.

Two Council members are now receiving a monthly $1,000 paycheck for their service following the Council’s decision back with the 2019 budget to provide salaries for elected ofďŹ cials.

Running unopposed, both Kathy Canady and Tony DeYoung were in line to pick up the new salary following the election.

But Monday, the Council decided to sweeten the pot by approving back pay for the pair to May because the election had been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is unclear who asked that this item be brought to the Council. On the agenda it had Finance Director Becky Wilkins name on it, but that does not mean she is the one who was seeking a decision.

When the Council voted, both Canady and DeYoung abstained, but it was highly unlikely the other three Council members would vote the measure down, so it appeared as a hollow gesture.

Either could have spoken up on why the back pay was deserved, or maybe have declined it in consideration of how the pandemic has impacted all of the community.

They did not.

Do Council members who have never been paid deserve back pay related to the salaries they awarded themselves simply because a pandemic, which has put a strain on all of us, forced them to wait six more months?

The Independent has opposed the salaries since the idea was ďŹ rst oated in August 2019 to reward Council members for their service with a $12,000 annual salary and the Mayor with $40,000.

Liberty Hill is not a City at this time that should be compensating Council members or its Mayor, and it certainly shouldn’t be handing out $6,000 lump-sum checks to two of them because of a delay in the election calendar.

How many people in our community are going to see back pay for wages lost due to a cut in hours, or a layoff attributed to COVID-19?

How many will not see raises in 2020 because of the toll the pandemic has taken on local businesses?

It must be nice to be able to look out for yourselves with someone else’s money while others make due in trying times.

It is true, in our type City, according to state law, the Council can handle compensation for its members as it sees ďŹ t. It seems it’s a good gig if you can get it. But have our Council members earned this?

That back pay will cover a span of time when this Council passed a budget 33 percent higher than the previous year. It was a time when they refused to act on allegations against former Mayor Rick Hall. It covers a period when the City was sued by one ďŹ red employee and terminated three others. In this time the Council approved nearly $3 million in additional spending on the wastewater plant expansion after signing off on dramatic changes that seem to now be in question as they face a lawsuit. It also struggled through accounting for capital projects that all seemed to run out of funds.

These issues certainly don’t fall on these two ofďŹ cials alone, but the fact they are now being paid for their participation in these decisions magniďŹ es the issue.

The question for taxpayers is how much of your money should be going into the pockets of elected politicians and is it truly being earned?

Request Refills Online

NOW OFFERING CURBSIDE PICKUP! Mon-Fri 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-1pm 512-548-6838 | 13740 W. Hwy 29, #4 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 Libertyhillpharmacy@gmail.com | LibertyHillPharmacy.com

Your Official Texas Sticker Shop

The UPS Store

 �

� � �  �  ­�€ � �  �  ­�€‚

ƒ�„ … € † �€ ‡ € �€ „‡ € �€

Locally Owned & Operated • GO PANTHERS GO!

512-548-6773

123 Holmes Rd, #3, Liberty Hill (behind Wag-A-Bag)

Mon-Fri 8:00-5:00 / Sat 7:30-3:30

License# 6P054793 P.O. Box 953, Bertram TX • TECL#32830

BUSINESS DIRECTORY YOUR LOCAL RESOURCE FOR LIBERTY HILL AREA BUSINESSES

WANT TO SEE YOUR AD HERE?

faxingmailboxing printingnotarizing brochuringcopying boxingdirect-mailing deliveringdesigning flyeringreturning shreddingfreighting receivingsupplying consultingstoring packingexperting Every ing for small business.

And, of course, shipping.

You provide a service.

We provide a voice.

Make sure your customers can ďŹ nd you when they need you.

Call 512-778-5577

Page A4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 17, 2020

LHISD honors Louine Noble in new campus name

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor Naming new school campuses in Liberty Hill could become a full-time job for the school board over the next decade, but among the most recent selections was one everyone agreed was a ďŹ tting legacy for a larger than life ďŹ gure from the district’s past.

The board selected Louine Noble as the namesake for the district’s ďŹ fth elementary campus – the current Intermediate School – to open next fall.

Noble was a long-time teacher, administrator and superintendent through the 1970s and 1980s. Noble passed away in September. “Our identity is pretty unique, and if our identity is what brought people here, I think they need to understand how that identity was built,� said

BUDGET

School Trustee and former district administrator Kathy Major, pointing to Noble’s far-reaching impact on the growth and success throughout the school district. “If what brought you here was the sense of community, if what brought you here was the sense of encouragement, of quality of education, of kids coming ďŹ rst, Louine Noble is the one we can thank for that.â€?

For Major, Noble was someone who began to set the stage for the excellence expected in Liberty Hill ISD today. “Mr. (Steve) Snell is an extraordinary superintendent and taking us to a new structure of excellence, and Louine was one of the foundations that this excellence has been laid upon now,� Major said. “We’ve been so lucky in our community in having great superin-

Continued from Page A1

could have been a part of the process at the public hearings, if she has any questions our ďŹ nance director can go through the budget with her on her time not during a council meeting as we have already participated in the process. Apparently, the council as a whole agreed with my motion as I got the second and a unanimous vote on my motion.â€?

But contrary to Canady’s claim, The Independent wrote extensively about the current budget, focusing not only on the 33 percent increase in planned expenditures, but on the lack of access to information and comments from then-Mayor Rick Hall on the budget.

Public discussion among Council members or City staff members related to the last two approved budgets have been minimal, and the City has refused until the last two weeks this month to make monthly revenue and expense reports for the City over the last two years available to the public through open records requests.

These reports would verify whether the City is adhering to the budget as planned, and whether revenues were in line with projections.

The unanimous decision to not allow the review Monday was one more effort to prevent that information from being discussed publicly.

At least two people – former Council member Ron Rhea, and former City Planner Sally McFeron representing the Better Together Project have asked that the City have a forensic audit done, but there has been no discussion of authorizing one.

According to Black’s Law Dictionary, a forensic audit is “the process of reviewing a person’s or company’s ďŹ nancial statements to determine if they are accurate and lawful.

Forensic accounting is most commonly associated with the IRS and tax audits, but it may also be commissioned by private companies to establish a complete view of a single entity’s ďŹ nances.â€?

Public Works changes Two weeks after the Council chose to hire an outside consultant – A.J. Olson – to come in and evaluate the operations of the City’s wastewater treatment plant, it voted to reorganize the Public Works Department. “I would like to make a motion to authorize our City Ad-

tendents and Louine set the standard.�

The new middle school will be named Santa Rita Middle School and the current Junior High will be renamed Liberty Hill Middle School. “This was my ďŹ rst experience with this process in Liberty Hill and it was not an easy choice with the selections we received,â€?

Superintendent Steve Snell said. “I want to thank the Board members for the care and thought they put into this process, they did a great job.�

The Board voiced its appreciation for the input it received over the past month from families, staff and the broader community from the district survey that was sent out. The community survey included suggestions ranging from names tied to local his-

tory to community leaders and various character traits. After much discussion, the Board came to a united decision, expressing their approval of the ďŹ nal three recommended names of the schools.

Honoring Noble was the highlight of the process for many who knew her well. “Louine was instrumental with Mr. (Bill) Burden to point the district in a strong direction,� said Major. “She knew her kids, she knew what she wanted for them, she knew they could achieve great things and she was so positive and such a force in this community.�

Noble joined the Liberty Hill Elementary staff as a sixth grade teacher before being named principal in 1976. She continued in her role as elementary principal until 1987,

when she was selected to serve as superintendent following the resignation of J.D. Cox. She held that position until 1991. “Even after she left the superintendent’s job, so many things she did she did for the community,� Major said. “She worked on the snack programs in the summer and was instrumental in that. She helped coordinate the back to school backpack program. She just continued to do things that were best for the children and the community.�

Her impact has been felt over the years, including with other board members including Anthony Buck who Major said was one of the driving forces behind this decision. “She was one of those people who knew early on that education was dynamic and that if we were going to do right

ministrator Lacie Hale to prepare plans for reorganization of the Public works Department,� Canady said.

The Council approved the motion unanimously.

In response to questions Tuesday related to the planned reorganization, Hale said it is all focused on making sure the plant is operating as it is intended. “The main reason for the reorganization idea is to make sure that the wastewater treatment plant has an operational stafďŹ ng program that will ensure they stay well within their permit limits,â€? she said. “The consultant, A.J. Olson, along with the City Engineer are giving expert guidance on this process.â€?

No more details were shared about the pending reorganization, but a special meeting of the Council has been called for Dec. 22 to consider the issue further.

Heated exchange Local developer and former Planning and Zoning Commission member Chris Pezold submitted public comments to be read at Monday’s meeting, taking to task Council member, and current Planning and Zoning Commission member

Steve McIntosh over a vote on an item brought forward by Pezold at a recent P&Z meeting.

At issue is a planned multi-family project on property owned by Pezold south of downtown off RM 1869.

After Pezold’s comments were read, McIntosh – speaking on his own behalf in public comments as well – addressed Pezold’s statement in his own prepared response, indicating he had access to Pezold’s comments prior to them being read publicly. Pezold said he had not provided a copy of the comments to McIntosh directly.

While not addressed in a City ordinance governing meeting administration and public comments, it has been the tradition that Council members do not respond to public comments. Former Mayor Rick Hall routinely informed individuals addressing the Council that Council members could not respond to comments or questions during public comments.

Council pay The question was raised Monday whether Council members Canady and Tony DeYoung should receive back pay to

May 2020 – an amount totaling $6,000 to be paid to each.

The Council ďŹ rst approved salaries in the 2019 budget planning cycle at $12,000 per Council member and $40,000 for the Mayor.

But when the election for May 2020 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canady and DeYoung, who were going to be unopposed on the ballot, could not ofďŹ cially draw those salaries until after the election which was held in November. “This item (on the agenda) is based on the fact that we had COVID and the election was delayed,â€? said Finance Director Becky Wilkins. “Council had passed a resolution to pay a stipend to the Council members and to the Mayor and it would be effective the next election. That election would have been in May, but then it happened in November. I guess in all the excitement in doing the budget we didn’t discuss what would happen in November.â€?

With the funds that would have been paid during that span being a part of the prior-year budget, any plan to provide pay now for that time period would have to be Council approved.

DRIVE THRU FLU SHOTS

Call today for your appointment!

12/21 10am-6pm 12/22 10am-6pm 12/23 10am-7pm 12/24 10am-2pm Closed 12/25 12/26 10am-3pm

things for kids we had to follow the research and use our common sense in its applications,�

Major said. “She really had a wonderful, balanced approach to teaching. She was an absolute warrior for children.�

“(City Attorney) Tad (Cleaves) and I have had conversations because Kathy (Canady) and Tony (DeYoung) were unopposed if we have an obligation to pay them back to May. I don’t have funds to pay them from May to Sept. 30 because that was prior budget,�

Wilkins said. “The money that is allocated, the $12,000 for each Council member, is allocated from (Oct. 1) through (Sept. 30). It’s a total of $6,000 for each Council member.�

The $12,000 in funds being paid to Canady and DeYoung aside from the current-year’s allocation will come from the City’s reserve funds.

The Council voted 3-0 in favor of the back pay, on a motion by Council member Liz Rundzieher, with Canady and DeYoung abstaining. There was no discussion by any Council member on the matter.

Branigan reiterated she does not plan to draw the Mayor’s salary of $40,000. She had planned to have the City donate the funds to charity, but that may not be possible, so the disposition of those funds remains undecided.

Learn more about Monday’s meeting at www.LHIndependent.com.

Â

� � ��  ­  � € Visit www. integrityinsurance.group today to complete a short form and we’ll get back to you right away with your insurance quote.

Merry Christmas from The Yellow House We wish you a joyful holiday and thank you for your loyal support!

HOLIDAY HOURS

LOUINE NOBLE

Let us Help You Find the Perfect Gift for Teachers, Friends, Co-workers!

An Independent Insurance Company

www.SimplyHomeTX.com 15280 W Hwy 29 | Liberty Hill, TX

512-515-5533

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

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

Happy Holidays from First Texas Bank

WISHING YOUR FAMILY A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!

Thank you and best wishes for the Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

Georgetown • Round Rock • Pflugerville • Cedar Park • Liberty Hill

FirstTexasBank.bank

Advanced Funeral Planning and Services 1700 E Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park 512-259-1610 | www.beckchapels.com

Thursday, December 17, 2020

BIRTHDAY

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Continued from Page A1

is cancer-free, but Beatty and her family are not blocking out their experience or shying away from helping others who are fighting a similar battle today.

The party “It was so spectacular that it completely blew us away,” Beatty said. “We had a venue donate their space to us, it was a beautiful place. We had such a huge support system, so we knew it would be big, and probably 150 people showed up. I’d never met these people before in my life, but they came in with Santa Claus, the Grinch, a clown, horses. There was a DJ, a buffet line of food and a beautiful wedding-type Christmas cake.”

The party was organized by Heroes For Kids out of Dallas, who reached out to local volunteers to make the event happen.

“I just kept thinking ‘where did these people come from,’” Beatty said. “None of them had experienced childhood cancer, it was just completely from the bottom of their heart.”

Seeing the impact on her daughter, who she said was robbed of a part of her childhood in her battle against cancer, was what made the party so special.

“It is just a great way for kids who are thrown into a very grown up situation, whose lives are completely changed, to just forget about what they’re going through and be a kid for a day,” Beatty said.

“That’s the goal and that’s what touched me so much with Haley’s birthday. Looking at her and seeing her laugh at the clown and being excited to be on a horse. She was dancing in the middle of the stage and it was something she hadn’t done for months and it was beautiful to see.”

This kind of escape, even if only brief, is something Joell Beagle, a Pediatric Oncology Social Worker at Dell Children’s Hospital said is critically important.

“It’s really, really important for kids to remember that they’re not just a diagnosis, that they’re a whole person and that they have interests and things they’re passionate about, that they have different relationships with their family,” she said. “Being able to celebrate and just be a normal kid for those moments or days is hugely important. It lifts their spirits and reminds them that this is just a part of their experience, not their whole experience.”

A life-consuming diagnosis The signs of something troubling began when Haley was in kindergarten, but answers were not easy to come by as the fam-

ily searched.

“When your child is in that much pain, it just seems like something is wrong, so we were taking her to hospitals and doctors, pediatricians,” Beatty said. “She was constantly missing school, and finally one day we were out to eat somewhere and she told me she didn’t feel right. She was six years old and telling me ‘Mom, maybe I need to go on a diet and exercise’ and I just packed our dinner up and told my husband we were driving to Dell (Children’s Hospital) because we just weren’t getting answers.”

For months, Haley dealt with headaches, vomiting and other symptoms that never seemed to improve, but that trip to Dell Children’s Hospital finally at least began providing some answers, even if they were hard to take.

“Nothing really prepares you for the doctor coming in and saying ‘I need someone to stay with your kids and mom and dad I need you to come with me’” she said, recalling the moment they got the news.

“You just know right then that something’s not right because they can’t say it in front of the kids. It went crazy from there, going straight from the ER to the ICU to brain surgery. I thought she was dying.”

About two weeks later, doctors confirmed to Beatty it was cancerous and that both radiation and chemotherapy would both be required to treat it. Everything else in life became a blur for the Beatty family.

“I’ve said it a million times to other parents. I feel like God gives us this natural trauma response,” Beatty said. “I feel like you go into survival mode, so it’s almost like you’re walking and living a moment five minutes at a time. The only thing you can focus on is getting to the end of it with your child alive. Everything else is just something you can’t think about.”

It impacts a lot of families, but life doesn’t stop after a cancer diagnosis.

“On average an ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia) takes two and a half years to treat, so life continues to go on during that time. Children are still learning, parents are still working and holidays and birthdays still come, so the opportunities (such as parties) bring moments of joy to the children and families where so much has changed in such a short amount of time,” Ellis said. “Planning the celebrations, as awesome and fun as they are, can also be stressful for the parents so this can also help alleviate the stress for the caregivers when others take on

this responsibility.”

That escape, the stress relief, found in these parties and other activities that seem so simple in everyday life become key.

“We do have patients that are here for months at a time, if not years at a time undergoing intense treatments, so being able to have a variety of opportunities where we can touch base with the families and provide them those little moments of joy is important,” Beagle said.

“Sometimes it’s a gift card, sometimes it’s a holiday party.

Sometimes it is opportunities just like this with these types of birthday parties where we can remind kids they are kids.”

The strain beyond the diagnosis Battles with cancer conjure up images of doctors, nurses, feeding tubes and intense treatments, but those impacts outside the treatment rooms can be just as much of a strain.

“There are a lot of different things people don’t think about when it comes to helping families that are walking through a cancer diagnosis with their child,” Beagle said. “If you have a child with ALL, with Leukemia, and they have a two-year treatment plan and you have to go to a number of different clinic visits, and they are going to be hospitalized for different treatments and things like that, then it means that you have at least one parent, if not two parents, that are going to have to navigate that when it comes to their jobs.”

Many questions with no good answers are thrown at families when they are already frightened and stressed.

Will one of the parents need to give up a job in oder to be able to be there and available for that child for both scheduled and unscheduled appointments and hospitalizations?

How does that impact a family’s finances? How does it impact the family’s siblings?

How much time will they be able to spend with siblings, or what about the attention that is maybe turned to focus on that specific child because of their cancer diagnosis? It becomes difficult to pay attention to every child within the family, so how do you balance that?

That toll on the family is mitigated as much as possible through the social workers at the hospital and an army of volunteers and organizations that have the sole goal of helping families navigate.

“We come alongside them as

social workers and say ‘look at the myriad resources we also have to offer,’” Beagle said.

“All of these different community organizations, all these different people who want to come alongside and provide everything from birthday cakes to customized shoes to any number of different resources to make this time in their lives just a little bit lighter.”

The rate of childhood cancer in the U.S. is 3.4 percent for children age one to four, and 2.5 percent for those five to nine years old, so this struggle is not as rare as one might think.

“In my neighborhood alone in Liberty Hill there are three kids,” Beatty said. “It is insane how many kids. Whenever I was in the clinic and just looking around I thought, ‘They say this is so rare, but there are so many kids and so many families who are battling this.’”

The only way Beatty was able to understand the magnitude of such a diagnosis was to experience it.

“I didn’t know what all this meant,” she said of what families cope with in childhood cancer. “I was blind to childhood cancer before it hit my home. Once you’re in it, it is so hard to walk away after everything you have seen. We made so many friends. It is so strange because sometimes you are so much more connected to these families than your own family because you relate to them.”

New celebrations Known today as Birthday Parties for Warriors, Beatty has – even in the face of COVID-19 and much-needed extra precautions – spent nearly 18 months focusing on how to give other families the uplifting experience that was shared with hers.

“Once Haley finished treatments, which was in August of 2019, I called the social workers at Dell and talked to them and they have been giving all the birthdays directly to me.”

It took a little time as she coped with her own emotions, but always with her were thoughts about those friends and connections she had made as Haley went through her treatments.

“When her treatment was over, I could really look back and reflect, and realize what we just went through,” Beatty said. “It really hits you all at once, and over a few months I

Page A5

Haley Beatty battled Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia for more than 18 months. Her mother Megan is now giving back to those coping with the same challenges by organizing special birthdays to celebrate childhood cancer patients and their families.

(Courtesy Photo) was really a bit depressed and Beatty found the doll on I decided I couldn’t just sit by E-Bay, and contacted the selland leave all those people be- er, sharing the story of why hind we were with. I know it’s they needed the doll, and evnot going to war, but you feel erything fell into place. like you just left those people “She wrote me back and behind and it is a weird feeling. let me buy it for the original I couldn’t walk away from the price,” Beatty said. “We only kids.” had a week so she quickly Those families that can’t walk shipped it. The little girl died away serve as the backbone of a couple of months after, but it the support structure they all was a great first party.” need.

Most recently they threw a “We strongly rely on our re- party in Liberty Hill for a famsources to provide our families ily and found the local generwhat they need,” Ellis said. osity to be overflowing. Local “Without the foundations and businesses including Fratelour community partners, we li’s Pizza, Mojo’s, Squirrel wouldn’t have the means to Squared, Hashtag MakeReady address the needs for our fami- and DigiTex were all eager to lies. When I say it is important, help in any way possible. it is crucial.”

“There were a lot of people in In the first party she planned, Liberty Hill who came togethwith dozens of volunteers at er, a lot of businesses,” Beatty her side, Beatty was deter- said. mined to go all out.

She has hosted six parties “Our very first child was dy- so far, with no plans to slow ing,” Beatty said. “She was on down, and the volunteers that hospice and I knew we had to join Beatty are one of her bigdo something spectacular for gest inspirations. her. We got a princess horse “There are such good people and carriage, we did this giant out there that it makes me want parade for her.” to be good,” she said of how The party also came with a inspired she continues to be by very special gift that set the others who give their time and tone for how much Beatty talents. “It is incredibly upliftwould be determined to make ing and I’m always amazed dreams come true for those she by what people have in their hearts to give. could help.

“Seeing the reactions from the “The only thing she wanted was this American Girl Doll parents when they realize how unicorn and it was sold out ev- much support they really do erywhere,” Beatty said, admit- have, and how much love and ting she even called the man- prayers there are for them is ufacturer directly for help to really special,” she said. “I feel no avail. “They did everything like that’s probably the best they could, but they couldn’t part of the birthdays, showing find one. It was all she wanted, them they’re not alone.” and we had to get it.”

Now Booking for After School & Christmas Break!

Private Agililty Lessons & Group Classes for Children

OPEN ‘TIL 2 PM

Christmas Eve!

HOLIDAY TEES & SWEATSHIRTS BUY ONE, GET ONE HALF PRICE

STOCKING STUFFERS GIFT CARDS

Gifts for Everyone on Your List!

The Market at Indian Mound Ranch, 12805 HWY 29, Liberty Hill

BLACK FRIDAY: NOON-6PM Fridays: 4pm-6pm Saturdays: 10am-6pm Sundays: Noon-6pm Last day of sales: Dec 20

Noble and Nordmann firs various sizes from 5-10 feet tall. Placed in water upon arrival for maximum freshness and longevity.

ALL SALES SUPPORT THE LIBERTY HILL TROOP & SCOUTS!

Our programs are designed to give children the opportunity to experience the sport of Agility. We teach children how to run a trained dog through an Agility course.

We follow COVID safety guidelines.

Liberty Oaks

AGILITY

Academy

LibertyOaksAgility@gmail.com

Call to schedule your lessons today!

(301) 706-1515 LibertyOaksAgilityAcademy

(512) 778-9199 PEPANDPUNCH.SHOP 20 023 LOOP 332, LIBERTY HILL 2023

Operate a Fireworks Stand in Your Area! ★

INVES TMEN FREE! T

HIGHEST PAID COMMISSIONS! December 20th | January 1st Please Call 800-274-4912 or Email info@afw.com

Best wishes for the happiest of holidays and a prosperous New Year from our family to yours!

McCoy Agency

Honest, Local & Trusted David & Christa McCoy Wendy Neill

www.FarmersAgent.com/CMcCoy 512-900-4422 • 12780 W Hwy 29, Liberty Hill

Page A6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Liberty Hill Christmas Parade

Thursday, December 17, 2020

The City of Liberty Hill’s reverse Christmas Parade, devised as a safe way to enjoy the annual tradition amid pandemic concerns, attracted 21 floats and long lines of eager onlookers who themselves paraded by the entries. Whittlesey Landscaping took the top prize among parade entries, with Liberty Hill Orthodontics placing second, Tractor Supply third and Keller Williams Liberty Hill Group earning Honorable Mention. (Courtesy Photos)

COVID Continued from Page A1

eight cases among auxiliary staff members, 11 at the high school – three staff and eight students – five students at the Intermediate School, four at the Junior High, and one staff member each at Liberty Hill Elementary School and Bill Burden Elementary School.

This is the second campus closure this semester, though for different reasons. The Junior High was closed for four days leading up to the Thanksgiving break due to a spike in cases on that campus.

COVID numbers The increase in COVID-19 case numbers, fatalities and hospitalizations has continued in December with Williamson County adding 3,122 new cases in the first half of the month. That represents 20 percent of the case total in the nine months since the first cases were reported locally in March.

Crash

Local hospitalizations have also climbed by 30 with 85 currently in Williamson County hospitals.

The positivity rate across the state has been above 10 percent throughout December, the highest it has been since late August. That has translated into 184,378 new cases this month, on a pace for more than 380,000 this month, which would be more than 100,000 more than November, the previous high.

To date, there have been 2,785 additional fatalities in Texas this month and hospitalizations are up, reaching 9,472 Tuesday. Hospitalizations have not been above that number since the last week of August.

The U.S. has surpassed 16 million total confirmed cases – 3.1 million of those in the last two weeks – and this week eclipsed the 300,000 fatality mark.

Continued from Page A1

on SH 29 as another vehicle entered from CR 214, and struck the westbound vehicle.

The westbound vehicle then veered to the left, crossing lanes of traffic, and left the highway, coming to rest after striking the front of the store.

The store was damaged substantially and the drivers sustained minor injuries, but no one else was injured.

“It’s a small shop,” Garner said. “As far as our inventory, and some shelving, it looks to be anywhere from a 30 to 50 percent loss. That’s just from being able to walk in the door initially and try to survey some. It pretty much took out the first shelf right inside the wall and most of the second shelf, reaching even into the back shelf. There is definitely damage throughout.”

Garner was grateful no one was critically injured.

“It’s just broken bottles at this point,” she said. “The drivers both sustained some injuries, but what was lost in the store is replaceable. Every bottle is replaceable and I’ve spoken with our vendors and they’re all stepping up and telling us to let them know when we’re ready and they said they’d shoot us a delivery.”

The building is owned by the owners of Mojo Coffee, and Garner said they were quick to react to help get the building repaired and safe.

“They have already had an engineer come check for stability of the building and they’re getting bids on repairs, so hopefully the ball is moving very quickly,” she said.

Rio Gabriel has contracted for clean up work due to the amount of broken glass.

“We’re hoping to be back in the store Monday to start clean up and inventory for insurance purposes, and fingers crossed we might could be open at the drive through by Thursday or Friday. We’re going to have to really get after it when we get in there, but that’s alright.”

Garner hopes to reopen soon and said the staff was lifted by the outpouring of support from the community after the crash.

“We have amazing customers who came throughout the day Thursday and wished us well,” she said. “We can’t wait to be open for them and having them here for us at the same time is great.”

Signal news A recent traffic study by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) showed that a signal is warranted at the intersection of SH 29 and CR 214.

Chris Bishop, a spokesman for TxDOT confirmed this week that the study had been completed in the past two weeks and that the process for full signalization of the intersection would move forward.

There had been resistance in the past from TxDOT to place a signal there because of its proximity to the signal at RM 1869 and SH 29. In 2018, a signal was installed at Bronco Way and SH 29, but at that time TxDOT said an additional one at CR 214 was not in the plan.

In early 2019, developers of the QuikTrip convenience store on the northwest corner of the intersection offered to pay for a signal.

To assist QuikTrip’s effort, the Liberty Hill City Council unanimously approved a resolution in support of signalization in April 2019.

Installing a signal is a lengthy process, and Bishop did not provide a timeline on the project.

The most recent community outcry for action came following a fatal collision in November 2018.

The collision, which occurred when a vehicle attempted to make a turn from CR 214 and was struck in the intersection by a second vehicle traveling westbound, resulted in one fatality.

SUBSCRIBE 512.778.5577

SPORTS

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Andon Thomas (#10) and the Liberty Hill defense will face the largest offensive line the Panthers have all season when they line up against Boerne Champion in a second-round playoff game at Gupton Stadium in Cedar Park on Dec. 18.

Chargers up next for Panthers Boerne Champion won its playoff opener, 56-19

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor All season long, Liberty Hill has waited for a challenge on the gridiron.

They might finally get one.

After a 51-0 dismantling of Glenn in the playoff opener on Friday, the Purple-and-Gold will face Boerne Champion in the area round at Gupton Stadium in Cedar Park at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 in a contest that will at last present a formidable hurdle for the Panthers to clear in their first-ever Class 5A postseason quest.

The Chargers enter the game with an overall record of 7-2 after finishing second in the District 15 standings to Alamo Heights and have outscored opponents this season by a 292-85 margin.

Not quite Liberty Hill numbers, but fairly foreboding

nevertheless.

For the record, Liberty Hill has outscored the opposition, 469-59, on the current campaign.

Although strength of schedule – or lack thereof – has played a prominent role in those dominant defensive numbers for the Panthers, defensive coordinator Kent Walker’s charges have been remarkable in any event.

In fact, the last points the Liberty Hill defense surrendered was a meaningless touchdown to Del Valle in the waning moments of a 44-27 away victory over the Cardinals all the way back on Oct. 2.

Do the math and that’s 10 weeks without allowing a ballcarrier to cross the goal line or even a field goal to split the uprights.

To be fair, the Panthers have only played six games over that 70-day period due to bye weeks and a forfeit victory over Northeast Early College in what would’ve been the regular-season finale on Nov. 27, but the fact remains the unit has outclassed the competition at every turn since district play began.

Junior linebacker Andon Thomas leads the way with 91 tackles on the season, 20 for a loss, while Aaron Brewer (57), Luke Huddleston (47), Lloyd Johnson (40) and Blake Wilson (38) round out the top five defenders.

Waiting for the Panthers across the line of scrimmage will be the largest offensive line they’ve faced all season, as the Chargers feature

See PREVIEW, Page B4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, December 17, 2020 Section B Page 1

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Bryant Amsler (#40) ran for 90 yards on 13 carries and scored the first touchdown of the game in Liberty Hill’s 51-0 home playoff victory against Glenn on Dec. 11.

Waiting for the call

Backups must be ready when needed

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor For Bryant Amsler, the week leading up to Liberty Hill’s playoff opener against Glenn was like any other.

The Panthers’ senior running back would go about his business at practice in workmanlike fashion, as he always does, but with little hope – if any – of actually carrying the ball on game night.

However, on the afternoon of the game, Amsler was on an online group chat with some of his teammates when starting fullback Eric De La Cruz told him he would be the one on the field when the ball was kicked off.

“He told me I was going to have to start because he was going to be quarantined,” said Amsler. “I needed to be ready.”

Amsler was certainly ready, running for 90 yards on 13 carries in the Panthers’ 51-0 victory over the Grizzlies and scored the first touchdown of the contest – all in his first varsity start.

According to Amsler, the physical results on the field were due to his mental acumen in the lead-up to the game.

“I knew everything I needed to do,” said Amsler. “We always have our test before each game with about 150 plays to know and I only missed one.”

Liberty Hill interim head coach Kent Walker attributed Amsler’s performance to a team-wide mentality every player on the roster has bought into.

“Everybody in our locker room is important,” he said.

“For us, it’s a matter of ‘next man up’ when something like that happens.”

But, when it does occur, that doesn’t make it any easier to adjust to, said Walker.

“When you find out at 2 p.m. on the afternoon of a playoff game you’re going to be without your starting fullback, it’s a bit unsettling,” he said. “But, we have great kids.”

Amsler said the daily grind of all the hard work without the reward of playing time is sometimes tough to take and at one point, he began to question it.

“I used to dread practice – it just seemed pointless,” he said. “But, this year, I’ve embraced everything more, mostly because I know everybody a lot better.”

Up until this season, Amsler played on the junior varsity and was on the other side of the ball as a linebacker – something he said he actually prefers.

“I’d rather hit people than run with the ball,” said Amsler.

“When I was on the JV, it was super laid-back and easier to have fun, but now that I’m used to being on offense, I don’t want to go back to defense.”

Crossing the goal line with the ball under one’s arm under the Friday Night Lights will have that kind of effect and Amsler will get another shot at the starting lineup in Liberty Hill’s second-round playoff game against Boerne Champion on Dec. 18.

Hopefully, though, the afternoon of that game won’t

be as dramatic as the last one, as Amsler and fellow senior running back Blake Simpson hydroplaned and spun off the road on a rainy day in Amsler’s truck shortly after he learned of his starting assignment that evening.

“I think maybe it was because I was so nervous,” said Amsler, of the minor accident with no injuries.

Walker added the conundrum of only choosing 22 starting players can be a quite difficult proposition – especially when prices are paid on the practice field each day.

“I think that’s probably the hardest part of coaching,” he said. “It can really be tough when you have a kid who does everything you want him to do, but just isn’t quite good enough to get that starting spot. But, we’ll at least try to get them in on special teams.”

As for Amsler’s exploits, Walker praised his efforts.

“Bryant is the kind of kid who’ll run through a wall for you,” he said. “He did a good job for us and is a really tough kid.”

For now, anyway, Amsler has been reunited with the likes of Simpson and many others.

“All of my friends are starting on offense,” he said. “It’s great.”

As for any advice he would give to players in a similar predicament, it’s a message of resolve.

“I’d tell them to just stick in there,” said Amsler. “Enjoy it while you’re doing it.”

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Morgan Jackson (#23) is a valuable option off the bench for the Lady Panthers – especially from 3-point range.

Heating up in a hurry

Subs need to make an immediate impact

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Morgan Jackson is sitting on the bench during a Liberty Hill girls’ basketball game, the Lady Panthers’ senior is much more than an interested spectator.

She’s carefully studying the opposition, looking closely for any possible weaknesses she can exploit when she finally steps on the court.

“I’m always watching the defense,” said Jackson. “If they’re playing man or zone.”

Jackson is a sharpshooter

from 3-point range, a specialty she has long taken advantage of, with a keen eye for the hoop from distance. But, in order to fully expose whatever she’s seen from the bench, she first needs to get into the game.

“Usually, when I first go in, I have to get used to the game,” she said. “But, by the second time I go in, I have the rhythm of the game and can base it off what I’ve seen – that helps me lock in and gives me confidence.”

Jackson’s most dangerous spot to set up once she is out

on the floor is in the left-wing corner, where she’ll get into position and wait for a pass from a teammate before taking aim and letting fly. Once that happens, the momentum of the game can shift dramatically if she can successfully find the range and begin draining her shots.

“I feel like that’s my strong suit,” said Jackson, of her ability to light up opposing defenses from beyond the arc.

“The left corner has always

See GIRLS, Page B4

Page B2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 17, 2020

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Miranda Walker (center), wife of Coach Jeff Walker, who passed away Dec. 1, was presented with an award from the UIL recognizing her husband’s contributions to Texas high school sports. She was joined by her daughters Regan and Madison.

Surreal night at Panther Stadium a fitting tribute

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Just as kickoff was approaching last Friday night at Panther Stadium, a dense blanket of fog rolled in and enveloped the entire venue in an atmosphere more fitting for a football match in London as opposed to a highschool gridiron battle deep in the heart of Texas.

Yet there we were, straining our eyes to see as all that was visible for much of the first quarter were shadowy figures running this way and that like ghosts in the mist.

Now, the football is hard enough to follow in all the machinations of Liberty Hill’s Slot-T offense, even under crystal-clear conditions.

But, in this pea soup, forget about it.

Perhaps that’s why there were only seven points put on the board between the two sides in the opening eight minutes, as the Panthers led nearby neighbor Glenn by a 7-0 score entering the second period.

Maybe it was playoff jitters.

Or perhaps the players wearing Purple-and-Gold were finally adjusting to and coming to terms with the fact their late head coach, Jeff Walker, was no longer patrolling the side-

lines.

In fact, as the fog slowly lifted, it quickly became quite clear – literally and figuratively – which team was going to walk off the field victorious after 48 minutes of combat.

Twelve minutes and 35 points later and the Panthers took a 42-0 lead to the halftime locker room, rendering the entire second half a mere formality in having their ticket punched to the next round of the postseason.

Although what occurred at halftime was the most important event that happened all night, as Walker was honored with an award from the UIL, accepted by Walker’s wife, Miranda, alongside daughters Regan and Madison and brother Kent – who is now interim head coach and athletic director – among other family members during a poignant presentation.

Walker was a man who didn’t believe in trumpeting himself and as he looked down from his new seat on high on the proceedings, we’re certain he was more pleased with how his team was taking care of business on the field than anything about him or his memory.

But, the fact remained the first game after his passing was maybe the first time when it really sunk in for many the ol’ ball coach is no longer with us under the Friday Night Lights.

However, the best way to honor Walker was indeed to go out and dominate the opposition exactly the way he would’ve demanded of his players and that’s exactly what the Panthers did in manhandling and dismantling the Grizzlies in such efficient, workmanlike fashion.

Fittingly, the first game after the events of the past few weeks was on home soil, as opposed to the neutral site, which is usually the fare once reaching the playoffs – providing friendly confines with which to deal with all the emotions of the evening.

Walker always told his players not to go out and try to make him proud, but themselves instead.

Well, there was much to be proud of on this night, as an entire community is still coming to grips with the loss of Walker.

Especially here in small-town Texas, where the head football coach is more recognizable – and regarded by many as more important – than the mayor or any other elected official or authority figure, for that matter.

When a sports team endures some kind of tragic event and finds itself still having to carry on with the business at hand, things can go one of two ways.

Either the athletes involved let it affect them in a negative way – which is completely un-

derstandable, by the way – and their performance suffers as a result.

Or, they use it as inspiration, figuring the best way to honor the memory of their fallen coach is to go out and get on with what they need to do with class and dignity.

When the clock ran out and the scoreboard read “Panthers 51, Visitors 0” it was very clear which path the Panthers had chosen to travel.

Yes, things carried on as usual at Panther Stadium last Friday night, almost as if Walker was still there overseeing events.

If you happen to believe the same kinds of things we do, one might say he was indeed there – in spirit and in the hearts of the players, coaches, supporters and everyone else concerned.

Almost as if the shroud that had descended at the outset of the evening was some kind of meteorological symbol of a presence of something greater than ourselves in the universe, meant to be a reminder years from now when we think about the first game after Coach Walker’s passing.

Once the mysterious mist lifted and we could once again see clearly, what we saw was yet another in a long line of Liberty Hill victories on the gridiron.

Just like Walker would’ve wanted it.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Anthony Sierras (#15) scored a game-high 24 points in Liberty Hill’s 46-42 district-opening home victory over Cedar Park on Dec. 15.

Runnin’ Panthers open district with win over Cedar park

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Anthony Sierras was sorely missed during the four games the junior forward was recently quarantined.

After all, the transfer from California has been Liberty Hill’s leading scorer all season, so Panthers head coach Barry Boren needed to find a way to make up for the 20plus points per game Sierras was contributing to the cause.

Liberty Hill won three of the four contests, but they were certainly glad to have their talisman back, as Sierras scored a game-high 24 points in the Panthers’ 46-42 home victory against Cedar Park in the district opener on Dec. 15.

Hunter Clayton scored after a steal by Kadin Knight in the game’s opening moments for the first points of the evening, but then Sierras quickly re-established himself in the line-

PANTHER R GAMES FOR DEC. 17

up with back-to-back buckets, the latter being a 3-point play after being fouled on the way to the basket.

At that point, the home side enjoyed an early 7-2 advantage and after another pair of baskets by Sierras, along with scores by Knight and Bobby Mundy, the Panthers led, 1510, after one.

The Timberwolves seemed to regain a bit of composure in the second period, including a pair of threes and eventually took the lead at 22-20.

Sierras then hit a pair of free throws to send the sides to the dressing room level at 22-22.

Boren said the slow tempo of play the Timberwolves prefer was an obstacle his club had to overcome, as the visitors slowed the game down and didn’t allow the Panthers to play their usual uptempo

See RUNNIN’, Page B4

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

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill

Rouse

Rouse

Rouse

Rouse

Rouse

Rouse

Rouse

3. USC vs. Washington

USC

Washington

USC

USC

Washington

USC

USC

4. Iowa vs. Oklahoma

Iowa St.

Oklahoma

Iowa St.

Oklahoma

Iowa St.

Oklahoma

Iowa St.

1. Liberty Hill vs. Boerne Champion 2. Rouse vs. Mercedes

5. Ohio St. vs. Northwestern

Ohio St.

Ohio

Ohio St.

Ohio St.

Ohio St.

Ohio St.

Ohio St.

6. Notre Dame vs. Clemson

Notre Dame

Clemson

Clemson

Clemson

Notre Dame

Clemson

Notre Dame

7. Florida vs. Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Florida

Alabama

Alabama

8. Cincinnati vs. Tulsa

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Cincinnati

9. Dolphins vs. Patriots

Dolphins

Dolphins

Dolphins

Dolphins

Dolphins

Dolphins

Dolphins

10. Vikings vs. Bears

Vikings

Bears

Vikings

Vikings

Bears

Vikings

Bears

11. Saints vs. Chiefs

Chiefs

Chiefs

Saints

Chiefs

Chiefs

Chiefs

Chiefs

Cowboys

Cowboys

Cowboys

49ers

Cowboys

Cowboys

49ers

6-3 77-42

7-2 83-36

5-4 74-45

3-6 78-41

6-3 68-51

5-4 79-40

6-3 73-46

12. Cowboys vs. 49ers LAST WEEK’S RECORD OVERALL RECORD

ENTER YOUR PICKS FOR NEXT WEEK

OFFICIAL CONTEST RULES

at www.lhindependent.com/pantherpicks

Congratulations to last week’s winner: ROWDY BROWN

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

1. ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5PM THURSDAY, BEFORE THE WEEKEND GAMES. 2. The entry with the most games correct will be the winner. Weekly winner receives their choice of tee from Two Brand It (value up to $20). A perfect ballot with the correct tiebreaker wins $50.

3. In case of a tie, the tie-breaker will be used. The tiebreaker is a combined score of the two teams in the final game. A tie will be considered a loss unless it is chosen as a tie.

4. Any incorrectly listed game will not be considered.

5. One entry per contestant.

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, December 17, 2020

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page B3

Liberty Hill advances with 51-0 home win over Glenn

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Minutes before kickoff at Panther Stadium on Friday night, a thick blanket of fog descended over the field as Liberty Hill was set to host Glenn in a Class 5A opening-round playoff contest, making it difficult for spectators to see what was unfolding in the game’s early moments.

However, even after it lifted midway through the first quarter, it was the Grizzlies who were left in a daze after a 51-0 defeat at the hands of the Panthers.

At the outset, though, it seemed as if the visitors would give the home side a run for its money as the first quarter ended with the Purple-andGold up by only a 7-0 score on a five-yard touchdown run by senior Bryant Amsler after an earlier 20-yard scoring run by Blake Simpson had been nullified by a holding call.

In fact, penalties plagued the Panthers early on in the proceedings as they were hit with a pair of holding infractions, as well as a false start and a chop block in the opening period.

Throw in pair of false start call on the Grizzlies on backto-back plays on their final possession of the quarter and it would explain the period’s pedestrian pace.

Once the second 12 minutes got underway, Liberty Hill began to take hold of the game.

After a Glenn punt saw the Panthers’ offense take over at their own 21-yard line, Simpson took a handoff on the second play of the series and rumbled 74 yards for a touchdown to make it a 14-0 game, but the Panthers were only getting started.

When the Grizzlies were forced to punt again the next time they had the ball, Blake Wilson broke in and disrupted the kick to the point it traveled only nine yards, giving the Panthers’ offense the ball on

the Glenn 23.

This time, it took only a single play to convert the blunder into points when senior quarterback Charlie Calabretta called his own number and sprinted past the defense for a 23-yard scoring run and a 21-0 advantage with nearly 10 minutes left in the half.

When Glenn got the ball back, it wasn’t for long, as Grizzlies quarterback Tony Holland coughed up a fumble which was recovered by Panthers linebacker Andon Thomas, putting the Liberty Hill offense back in business at the Glenn 22.

After shorts runs by Trey Seward, Amsler and Simpson, Calabretta plunged in from a yard away to make the score 28-0.

Liberty Hill’s defense continued to plunder Glenn and on the Grizzlies’ next possession, Thomas recovered yet another fumble, from which Simpson scored on a four-yard run only four plays later for a 35-0 lead with 6:14 left until halftime.

Glenn continued to test the Panthers’ secondary with passes, but were unsuccessful, with most of them falling to the ground incomplete, although roughing-the-passer and pass-interference calls against the Panthers extended the next Glenn drive before ultimately having to punt regardless.

On Liberty Hill’s final possession of the half, it was the Panthers who took to the air, as Calabretta first hooked up with Nate Hilbrich on a 21-yard pass before hitting Seward with a 39-yard scoring strike, which left the score 42-0 at the half.

At the outset of the third quarter, Thomas continued to run roughshod over the Grizzlies, with a sack of Holland in the end zone for a safety, which was added to by Seward’s second touchdown of the evening, a 1-yard run six minutes later to close out the scoring before

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Two games, four points.

It’s all that’s stands between Liberty Hill’s girls’ basketball squad from being 2-0 in their new district and 0-2.

Unfortunately for the Lady Panthers, the latter mark is what resides next to their name in the standings after a 47-45 overtime home defeat to Rouse on Dec. 11.

“We lost two games,” said Liberty Hill head coach Chris Lange. “We have to do better as coaches and players.”

After having dropped the district opener on the road against East View, 51-49, in a game they led by as many as six points nearing the end of the third quarter and still by two with 2:36 remaining in the fourth, once again, the Lady Panthers found themselves with a late advantage.

However, after holding a 10-point lead in the final period, at 39-29, Rouse went on an 11-1 run to even the contest at 40-40, with only 2:38 left in regulation before forcing the extra period.

Ironically, it was Lange’s club who had completed a miraculous comeback of its own after an early deficit to hold the lead at halftime by a score of 23-21.

After the Raiders had led, 17-6, following the opening eight minutes, Avery Harrell hit a bucket to open the second stanza, which was followed in short order by a Regan Walker 3-pointer to begin the fightback.

Rouse’s Avonnie Justice answered right back with a three for the Raiders, but Walker and Morgan Jackson hit back-toback shots from beyond the arc to further close the gap before Walker leveled the proceedings with a pair of free throws and the Lady Panthers had come all the way back to tie the game at 20-20.

Moments later, Jackson drained another dart from distance to give the Purple-and-

Gold a 23-20 lead, which finished off a 17-3 run to end the half with a 23-21 lead.

Baylee Laird began the third quarter with a steal which led to yet another Jackson three, then followed up on Liberty Hill’s next possession with a 3-point play after being fouled when Jackson had stolen the ball, drove the length of the court and missed a layup, from which Laird got the rebound and was fouled on the putback attempt.

All of a sudden, the Lady Panthers’ lead has grown to 29-21, an advantage they continued to build on, taking a 35-24 lead into the final eight minutes.

In fact, after the Raiders had blown up with 17 first-quarter points, the visitors were held to a combined seven in the second and third periods.

But, Rouse, who entered the contest ranked No. 19 in the state, would begin its own comeback shortly thereafter with the run which would bring them back into the game.

After Lange called a timeout with 2:38 remaining in regulation, Kenzy Wise hit a free throw to put Liberty Hill ahead, 41-40, but Rouse’s Nya Mackey immediately hit a bucket right before Jackson scored off an assist from Wise on a cut to the basket to restore the Lady Panthers’ lead to 4342 with 25.1 seconds left.

Once Justice drained the back end of a two-shot foul opportunity with 4.2 seconds left, Liberty Hill failed to get a shot off at the buzzer and the game went to overtime tied at 43-43.

Walker scored the Lady Panthers’ only two points of the extra period to begin the four-minute segment for a 4543 lead, but Justice sunk a pair from the line to tie it again before Teneya Tate scored what proved to be the game-winning bucket.

Walker led Liberty Hill with 15 points, while Jackson added 11 and Laird eight in defeat, as Justice scored a game-high 19

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Liberty Hill defenders Blake Wilson (56), Lloyd Johnson (#17) and Canyon Schirpik (#14) stop a Glenn ballcarrier during the Panthers’ 51-0 home playoff victory over the Grizzlies on Dec. 11. a scoreless fourth quarter.

The occasion marked Liberty Hill’s first game since the passing of former head coach and athletic director Jeff Walker, with brother and defensive coordinator Kent Walker taking over both posts on an interim basis.

Afterward, Walker was somewhat lost for words in describing the emotional journey he had been on with the events surrounding his brother’s death, as well as getting the team ready for a playoff game.

“I really don’t know how to explain how I feel right now,” he said. “It’s a great feeling to get a win, but I still feel numb.

I don’t think I’ll ever get over Jeff not being around anymore, but we came together as a team tonight.”

Calabretta acknowledged the gravity of the situation.

“The last two weeks have been long and emotional for us,” he said. “We’re going to continue to use Coach Walker as motivation.”

Simpson led Liberty Hill with 132 yards on 10 carries and two touchdowns, while Seward had 14 attempts for 76 yards and a pair of scores and Amsler – in his first-ever varsity start – 10 carries for 74 yards and a touchdown.

Calabretta scored a pair of rushing touchdowns on five carries for 62 yards and completed 3-of-3 passes for 67 yards.

Seward caught one pass for 39 yards, while Hilbrich had two receptions for 28 yards.

Defensively, the Panthers have now posted five consecutive shutouts, with the last points the units surrendered a touchdown in the waning moments of the Del Valle game on Oct. 2 and Calabretta is impressed with what he sees from his mates across the line of scrimmage.

“They’re great,” he said.

“I’ve never seen a defense which is so motivated – I’ll take those 11 guys anytime.”

Walker – who is the orches-

trator of the Liberty Hill defense – completely credits the players who go out onto the field with his marching orders for all the success this season – although he did shine the spotlight singularly on his middle linebacker.

“We just have great kids,” he said. “But, when you have an Andon Thomas out there, it’s like having another coach on the field – I can’t say enough about him.”

Up next for Liberty Hill (90) is a meeting with Boerne Champion, who finished second in District 15, with an overall record of 7-2, along with a 4-1 league showing.

The Chargers defeated Edcouch-Elsa, 56-19, in another first-round contest on Friday to set up a date with the Panthers, with a day and time yetto-be determined.

Despite the fact Champion will represent quite a step up in competition level from Glenn, Calabretta is confident he and his teammates will be

more than a match for them, he said.

“Yeah, it’s going to be a challenge,” said Calabretta. “But, they’ve never seen the Slot-T and they’ve never played Liberty Hill.”

Walker said his squad must keep the emotional edge they have at the moment in the proper perspective.

“We need to continue to play with emotion,” he said. “The game of football is emotional, but you need to be able to harness it.”

As for his brother’s memory on this night, Walker was certain his brother would’ve been proud – although that was never the former coach’s goal, he said.

“Jeff always used to tell our players to make themselves proud – that it wasn’t about him,” said Walker. “But, tonight, I think they did make him proud – I know he was looking down on our coaches and kids.”

Lady Panthers drop heartbreaker to Rouse

Kenzy Wise (#14) and the Lady Panthers lost in overtime to Rouse, 51-49, at home on Dec. 11. for Rouse to go with 18 from Cailyn Kieper, as the Raiders’ duo combined to score 37 of Rouse’s 47 points in the game, as only four different players scored for the visitors.

Meanwhile Liberty Hill got scoring from nine players as the Lady Panthers’ bench

was once again shortened by the quarantine bug, with four players missing the contest as a result.

Lange was understandably upset the contest even required extra time to settle.

“It never should’ve went to overtime,” he said. “We need

to block out and play better than we did.”

Rouse shot 23 free throws to Liberty Hill’s 10 on the evening.

Team quarantine All three girls’ basketball teams – varsity, junior varsity

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

and freshman – will be quarantined meaning the Lady Panthers’ next three district games at Cedar Park on Dec. 15, home against Marble Falls on Dec. 18 and at Leander on Dec. 22 will all be rescheduled for later in the season.

Page B4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 17, 2020

PANTHER OF THE WEEK

Designs on the court Liberty Hill hoops player plans to pursue landscape architecture

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Avery Harrell dribbles the ball up the court while directing the Liberty Hill offense, she quickly surveys the situation, deciding how best to orchestrate a result on the offensive end that results in two points for the Lady Panthers.

One could say the senior point guard is putting her own design on the hardwood landscape she and her teammates ply their current trade on.

Kind of like what Harrell wants to pursue as a career once her basketball days are a thing of the past.

“I love looking at all the stuff people have in their yards,” she said. “So, I’m interested in landscape architecture – it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while.”

Harrell began playing hoops at the age of eight, along with softball and volleyball, but once she reached high school, she decided to stick primarily with basketball in order to keep up with her competitors in vying for a spot on the Liberty Hill roster.

“In order to try and be ahead

PREVIEW

Continued from Page B1

linemen weighing in at 360, 310, 255, 270 and 260 pounds across the offensive front.

Junior quarterback Karson Kaiser is a two-way threat who can beat defenses on the ground or through the air, as the 6-foot-3, 210-pound signal-caller is unlike any other opposing offensive leader the Panthers have faced so far this season.

Champion also has bulk on the defensive line, with players tipping the scales at 245, 210

GIRLS

of everyone else and not fall behind,” said Harrell. “Also, I found I was just more passionate about basketball.”

As a point guard, Harrell must constantly concern herself with what the other four players on the court are doing and react accordingly as far as involving everyone in order to provide proper offensive flow – an aspect of control she embraces.

“I have to look at everything going on out there and focus on everyone,” she said. “But, I know what plays to call.”

Usually, point guards are tasked with being providers more than scorers and that’s just fine with her, said Harrell.

“I’d rather get assists and stuff than score myself,” she said. “I love being able to run things on the court.”

Much of the Lady Panthers offense requires on-the-fly adjustments and decisions that need to be made in the blink of an eye, something Harrell believes she is proficient at.

“I think I’m really good at looking down the court to see who’s open,” she said. “Set plays are different because you

and 280 pounds, which means Liberty Hill’s Slot-T offense must be on point in getting up into their blocks before they can stand up and take advantage of their size.

Charlie Calabretta went to the air against Glenn more than he had in any game all season, completing 3-of-4 passes for 73 yards, including a pair of catches for Nate Hilbrich and a 39-yard scoring pass to Trey Seward.

On the ground, the Panthers

Continued from Page B1

been my favorite spot – it’s usually the side I’m playing on.”

According to Liberty Hill head coach Chris Lange, having a player like Jackson, who can enter a game and change up the flow for the better, is an asset any coach would want – especially when that player is content in contributing to the cause however needed.

“Morgan does a good job,” said Lange. “She accepts her role – I can’t start 10 girls and it’s even tougher when there are two other girls playing her position.”

Often, Jackson will come off the bench and immediately provide the kind of spark the Lady Panthers need, by hitting a three and once she gets going, look out.

Against East View in the district opener on Dec. 8, she drained a pair of 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to help keep the Lady Panthers in the game, something she also did against Fredericksburg on Nov. 11, when she scored eight fourth-period points, including a pair of threes.

Lange said Jackson has the ability to be able to switch on

the offense at a moment’s notice – a trait not every player has.

“Some can, some can’t,” he said. “But, shooters shoot – it’s what they do and Morgan has a good, quick release.”

However, when the 3-ball isn’t open, Lange would like Jackson to also have the ability to penetrate defenses by attacking the basket and finding additional ways to score.

“You can’t shoot threes all the time,” he said. “Sometimes you need to be able to drive the lane, get fouled and hit free throws.”

Jackson is buying what Lange is selling in that regard.

“I’m trying to work on driving to the basket,” she said. “I feel like I’m getting better at it.”

Defensively, Lange likes to pair up Jackson and fellow senior forward Taylor Swieczkowski in order to shut down the opposition.

“Morgan has very active hands and feet on defense,” he said. “Both her and Taylor make our practices better, too, but it’s also showing up in games.”

Jackson said she would love to be in the lineup when the

know where you’re going, but there are many different things you can do.”

Liberty Hill head coach Chris Lange said he expected great things from Harrell as soon as she arrived on the varsity scene.

“I knew Avery was ready the moment I brought her up,” said Lange. “She has great vision of the court and makes passes to players you wouldn’t think – that’s her strong suit.”

Harrell has been sharing time at the point with junior Madison Walker this season, but Lange emphasized despite the fact Harrell might not always be on the court for the opening tip, it doesn’t mean she’s not just as valuable whether in a starting or reserve role.

“Who starts and who finishes the game doesn’t matter,” he said. “We just need both of them to be calm, cool and not get stressed.”

Lange added Harrell has an excellent rapport with him as far as carrying out the coach’s orders and also relaying back what’s happening from an oncourt perspective.

“It’s really important,” he said.

rushed for 434 yards, led by senior Blake Simpson, who carried 13 times for 148 yards and three touchdowns, including a 74-yard scoring sprint in the second quarter.

Fellow senior running back Bryant Amsler filled in for starter Eric De La Cruz and contributed 90 yards on 13 carries and a touchdown, while Seward rushed 17 times for 94 yards and a touchdown.

game starts, but she also believes she’s more effective in her current role.

“Actually, I feel like I’m better off the bench,” she said.

“I feel like I bring a different kind of energy and intensity than everybody else.”

Jackson added in order to be deadly from 3-point range, her mechanics must be on the money and if they’re not, she can instantly tell by where the ball hits the rim on a miss.

“Usually, when I miss, it’s because of a lack of focus,” she said. “If the ball goes long, then I know not to shoot it as hard and I also have to use my legs with more power than regular jump shots.”

With the Lady Panthers competing in Class 5A this season and competing in a difficult district, Jackson knows she’ll be depended on more than in the past and the impact she has on a contest will be even more pronounced than before.

“We know every single night is going to be a fight,” she said. “So, we’re going to have to bring a lot of intensity every game.”

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

74 – Avery Harrell (15) is always looking for open teammates at her point guard position for the Lady Panthers.

“You need to be able to talk to the coach. I’ve had other point guards like Bethany McLeod and Gracie Whitten who were like that and Avery’s the same way – they’re all good talkers, which allows you as a coach to really get a feel for the game.”

So, it certainly seems as if

Harrell is in good company when it comes to comparisons with past Lady Panthers point guards.

Harrell said her favorite subject in school is math, which should help her a great deal when she’s designing front lawns and backyards some-

day as opposed to drawing up plays on the court. But for the moment, she’s content to focus on what’s right in front of her.

“I played a lot of sports when I was younger,” she said. “But, I like basketball most because it’s so fast-paced.”

JUNIOR HIGH SPORTS BRIEFS

Girls basketball

On Dec. 14, Liberty Hill Junior High School’s girls’ basketball teams played Hutto and won three of four games against the Hippos.

8th-Grade A won, 61-21 Taylor Gaines - 20, Gabby Mundy - 8, Clara Justice - 8, Evie Bruce - 7, Aubrey Hughes - 4, Elayna Hubbard - 4, Mehlayla Mulski - 4, Ad-

RUNNIN’

dison Shifflett -2, Annie Witt - 2, Addison Lee - 2 8th-Grade B won, 59-13 Kate Bednarz - 15, Haley Maderia - 14, Ava Kostroun 14, Jolynn Whiteley - 4, Hailee Roberts - 4, Shelby Broderick - 3, Aubri Ettinger - 3, Maryjo Martin - 2 7th-Grade A lost, 31-23 Falon Stroup - 6, Rita Gerten - 4, Brooke Schneider - 3, Ab-

igail Himmer - 2, Josephine Perkins - 2, Elena Price - 2, Madelyn Kingslien - 2, Reagan Robbins - 2 7th-Grade B won, 29-12 Kelsie Leary - 10, Maelynn Rongey - 8, Savannah Haney - 4, Sophie Chavez - 3, Reagan Huddleston - 2, NatalieVineyard - 2

Continued from Page B2

game.

“When you play that slow, sometimes guys take quick shots and get frustrated,” he said. “If you’re a guy on the bench and you come into a game like this, you might feel like to have to do something in a hurry.”

Liberty Hill upped the defensive pressure as the second half began, with steals on three consecutive Cedar Park possessions – resulting in scores by Sierras and Knight – prompting a timeout by the visitors.

Coming out of the timeout, the Timberwolves scored four straight points on a free throw and a 3-pointer to once again tie the contest at 26-26, but Sierras and Walker Weems drained back-to-back baskets to restore the advantage, one that the Panthers would ultimately not relinquish the rest of the game.

Gunter Daniels hit a pretty, fade-away jumper from the baseline, which the sopho-

Liberty Hill 80, St. Dominic Savio 54 On Dec. 12, the Panthers made the trip to Austin to face St. Dominic Savio and returned home with an 80-54 road win over the Eagles on the strength of 18 points by Weems, along with 17 from Daniels and 10 by Knight.

Daniels hit three baskets in each of the first and second quarters, as Liberty Hill led, 21-15 after one and 37-26 at the half.

Weems heated up in the second half, duplicating what Daniels had done earlier, with a trio of hoops in each of the third and fourth periods, as the Panthers finished off the win.

Liberty Hill (11-1, 1-0) will next face Marble Falls away on Dec. 18, before returning home to host Leander on Dec. 22 and is currently ranked No. 24 in Class 5A.

more sharpshooter released from behind the backboard as he was flying out-of-bounds as time expired in the third quarter with Liberty Hill ahead by a score of 34-30.

After Cedar Park had closed to within a point at 36-35, it was Daniels who once again showed sublime skill by recovering a loose ball near midcourt and driving all the way to the basket for a 3-point play and a 39-34 lead.

Moments later, Daniels blocked a shot at the defensive end to thwart a Timberwolves scoring chance, then hit a free throw with 1:03 to play to help cement the victory In addition to Sierras’ 24 points, Daniels added seven and Knight six in the win.

Boren said his team was able to secure a victory despite being out-of-sorts.

“We were unsettled all night,” he said. “But, we found a way to stay in the game.”

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! LHINDEPENDENT.COM/ SUBSCRIPTIONS

TRACTOR SUPPLY LIBERTY HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MAIN STREET SOCIAL RYS ABOVE QUICK SERVICE NUTRITION GARAGE TEXAS MALTED GRAINS HONEY HOLE PARKER’S LO GROCERY O FELLOWSHIP P CHURCH 3 AGAPE JAVA DANA’S INDIGO VETERANS 32 ( M 869 HAIR SALON PARK A Y. 1 W IN H HELL OR B HIGH WATER ST.) A R BREWING T

Don’t get caught in the cold.

LE

T YR

O

.

N

LN

D

R

M

.

GE

AN

GR

LIBERTY HILL GARDEN HOMES AT CENTRAL PARK M

.

ST

L

.

ST

LD .

LN

512-219-0900

Y

IE

325 E State Hwy 29 | Bertram Located between PEC and the Train Depot

E

EF

Free service call with repair

BL UB

Service you can Trust.

✪

A LL

EL W LL FA

ST

Call ACA for a heater checkup

RO

V A N

N

U

Warmest Wishes for a Blessed Christmas!

Thank you for a great year.

We look forward to serving you in 2021!

.

ST

– Chad & Amanda Moore

New 2BR 1BA Apartments • Downtown Liberty Hill Walk to Grocery, Salons, Restaurants + More Back Porches + Balconies • Green Space for Kids + Pets Discount for Military + First Responders

Getting physical

Thursday, December 17, 2020

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page B5

Rugged inside play critical to opening up the court

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Liberty Hill head coach Barry Boren stood with Walker Weems at the end of practice, offering the 6-foot-5 junior forward some sage advice.

“He just told me I need to pick up my intensity in the post,” said Weems. “What it comes down to is just doing it, because I know I can.”

Especially with the Panthers playing now against Class 5A district competition, it’s more imperative than ever for Boren to have a physical presence down low and he’s looking to Weems to use his wiry frame and length to provide exactly that – something Weems is aware of, he said.

“Up in Class 5A, everyone’s going to be stronger, quicker and faster,” he said. “So, I need to play stronger, box out and be ready for every rebound.”

Weems has always been a scorer at every other level he’s played at and has excellent range from the perimeter, but upon arriving on the varsity squad last season, he’s been asked to play a more forceful role under the basket.

“When I moved up to varsity, my main job became taking

care of the ball,” said Weems.

“I try the best I can to listen to what Coach Boren says. I know as a junior and a starter, I need to be getting more baskets, playing inside more and finding my shots.”

In the Panthers’ district opener against Cedar Park on Dec. 15, junior forward and leading scorer Anthony Sierras returned to the Liberty Hill lineup after a four-game absence due to a quarantine, which provided Boren with a coaching conundrum, he said.

“We played Anthony at the post, so I decided to start (Weems) and have Gunter (Daniels) on the bench,” said Boren. “It was a tough call.”

However, it was a call that paid dividends in the form of a 24-point performance from Sierras in a 46-42 Liberty Hill victory over the Timberwolves.

Sierras has an uncanny knack for being able to maneuver in and around bigger opponents under the basket despite his 6-foot-2 frame, allowing him to create his own scoring opportunities out of seemingly nothing.

At the same time, he can run the court and play the kind of uptempo game Boren prefers

to employ, a kind of versatility which comes in handy when the need arises to adjust to a particular opponent’s style of play, such as in the contest against Cedar Park, he said.

“Against them, we had contrasting playing styles,” said Boren. “They want to keep the game in the 40s and we always want it to be in the 60s – that’s a 20-point difference, so we needed to change our pace, be patient with the ball and find ways to score – that’s what good teams do.”

With teams such as Georgetown, Glenn, Leander and Rouse on the schedule, the Panthers’ success will largely be determined by whether or not they can handle what opponents throw at them and be able to play different ways, such as they did in the win over Cedar Park.

“We just have to play hard and smart,” said Boren. “Change the pace if we need to and find ways to win.”

(RIGHT) Walker Weems (#34) is being required to play with more of a physical presence down low this season.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Williamson County issues 90-day burn ban

GEORGETOWN -- On Dec. 15, the Williamson County Commissioners Court approved the implementation of an Order Prohibiting Outdoor Burning in the unincorporated areas of Williamson County commencing at 5:00 p.m. on Dec. 15, 2020, and continuing for a period not to exceed

90 days. The order authorizes County Judge Bill Gravell to lift the ban if conditions improve during the effective period of the burn ban.

A person violates this order if they burn any combustible material outside of an enclosure which serves to contain all flames and/or sparks, or orders

such burning by others. The burn ban prohibits the burning of household yard waste, such as leaves, grass, brush and other yard trimmings. It also prohibits burning to clear land of trees, stumps, shrubbery, or other natural vegetation. This order may be enforced by any duly-commissioned peace

officer. It is a Class C Misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine up to $500.

For additional restrictions, requirements and details relating to the Order Prohibiting Outdoor Burning, and to view the Order please visit www.wilco. org.

Support Local Business

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

LHINDEPENDENT.COM/SUBSCRIPTIONS THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT IS A FEMALE-OWNED LIBERTY HILL-BASED SMALL BUSINESS. YOUR SUBSCRIPTION AND ADVERTISING STAYS LOCAL!

Liberty Hill & Surrounding Communities

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL R.V. Fuel | Bottle Filling | Gas Piping in Home Propane Tanks | Grills & Replacement Parts | Gas Logs

ACTION PROPANE, INC.

Clawson Disposal, inC. Residential * Commercial * Roll off

(512) 746-2000

We Provide Keepfull Routing Service

512-259-1196

Murray Hoggarth • Wanda Hoggarth 2601 S. Hwy 183 | Leander, TX 78641

301 County Road 307 PO Box 416 Jarrell, Texas 76537

Jarrell (512) 746-2000 Leander (512) 259-1709 FAX (512) 746-5807

COME CHECK OUT OUR INVENTORY AND MEET OUR SALES TEAM!

Benny Boyd of Liberty Hill wishes you a wonderful holiday season!

LISA COOK Sales Professional

ROCK COOK Sales Manager

• no payments for 90 days oac • home of the lifetime engine warranty!

28,987

$

27,580

2016 Cadillac CT6 3.6 Liter DOHC Automatic Transmission 40,210 miles GU162589

$

2018 Dodge Charger 3.6 Liter Automatic Transmission 25,008 miles JH335489

CHECK OUT OUR REVIEWS

21,977

$

(512) 778-6111 | 10620 TX 29, Liberty Hill | BennyBoydLibertyHill.com

2019 Dodge Journey SE 2.4 Liter, Front Wheel Drive Automatic Transmission 9,903 miles KT804412

Page B6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 17, 2020

LHHS TAFE advances to state

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Walker Strong

The Panthers broke through this banner Friday night in honor of Coach Jeff Walker, who passed away Dec. 1.

CLASSIFIED ADS

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

SALES GARAGE SALE Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 1820, 8am-5pm, 20904 National Drive, Lago Vista. Sports, reloading equipment, lots of ammunition, men’s stuff, tools, household items, Christmas decorations, round oak refinished table/w/leaves & 4 chairs, kids rocking giraffe/ horse & motorcycle, children’s table w/2 chairs. Great Christmas gifts, don’t miss it!

(12/17p)

provided. Call Cho (512) 9630773. HopeHouseAustin.org.

(12/17)

SERVICES SELL YOUR UNIQUE home made or grown items locally!

The Market At Indian Mound Ranch is currently accepting Vendors for the 2020 Season.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT HIRING DIRECT CARE for special needs population in Liberty Hill. 12-8pm and weekend FT spots. Starts $1315/hr. with benefits. Training

LIBERTY HILL ISD IS SEEKING Responses for Professional Construction Services. All interested Responders please see RFQ #21-002

available at www.libertyhill. txed.net click Departments Business Office - Purchasing - Current Bid Opportunities or request a copy by emailing: proposals@libertyhill.txed. net. (12/24) 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.

(12/31)

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer Liberty Hill High School’s Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) organization is heading to state-level competition for its first time in March.

The organization, created in 1984, allows students to explore the teaching profession and provides them with the knowledge necessary to succeed if they choose the education field.

TAFE students worked on several projects on their way to state, including a video presentation titled “Inside Our Schools.” The video focused on a new addition to the high school. The team of Cami McVan, Tyara Jones, and Mallory Mahan chose to focus on Nosek, the police dog, and how he’s contributed to the school.

The underclassmen of TAFE each had a different focus for their parts of the project.

“I did impromptu speaking.

That was challenging because I got a topic and had to have the mindset to be able to think through it in just ten minutes and find something to say,” said member Selina Culp.

Keely Davis, Jai Lynn Jittlertmongkol, and Natalie Reveile’s focus centered on the group’s slideshow presentation.

“My team and I worked hard on the slide shows to make them fancy, coordinated, and uniform,” said Davis. “With writing, we tried to make it nice and long and used fancy words. We all worked together.”

Reveile shared some of the work that went into putting together their paper.

“Since we had to do a fivepage essay and our big presentation. To get those done,

ANTHONY FLORES PHOTO

The LHHS TAFE team members from top row left are Cami McVan, Tyara Jones and Mallory Mahan. In center row are Keely Davis, Natalie Reveile and Morgan Coleman. In front, are Reagan Hoyt, Selina Culp and Jai Lynn Jittlertmongkol. we did interviews with people who know more about the topic so that we could learn from their experience and what they know,” said Reveile.

Preparing for their presentation forced the TAFE team to do their best.

“For me, it was sitting down and going through all of the stuff was hard,” said Davis. “I had rehearsed all of it in my mind but saying it in front of people judging me. It was very nerve-wracking.”

In Culp’s scenario, the surprise of her topic was the source of her early stress.

“The hardest thing for me was not knowing the subject that I had to talk about until 10 minutes before. I didn’t have the chance to sit down and process it,” said Culp. “When I found out, I realized I overthought what it was going to be, and it was a lot easier.”

Brooke Brown didn’t find out she was advancing until close to a week later once judges re-

alized they scored her Chapter Yearbook project incorrectly.

“The Chapter Yearbook is a scrapbook that displays all the service projects and fun activities that TAFE members have participated in throughout the year,” said Brown. “It was a super surreal experience finding out that my teammates and I were going to be going to State. It was shocking, but it was rewarding knowing that all of our hard work paid off in the end.”

With state competition on the horizon in March, the TAFE team is preparing to make a run that they hope takes them to the national level competition.

“We are preparing for the State Competition by making improvements to our projects and working on our presentations as a whole to ensure success at the State TAFE competition this spring,” said Brown.

HOMES AROUND THE HILL Feature your property listings weekly!

(512) 778-5577

Residential, Luxury, Farm & Ranch

“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