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Volume 35, Issue 6

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December 30, 2021 | 50 Cents

City loses over Football players spearhead ‘gift of $169,000 in two love’ for beloved substitute teacher cyber crimes

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer Two cases of cybersecurity fraud committed in October against the City of Liberty Hill, which resulted in a loss of $169,015.95, were reported by city staff to the Liberty Hill Police Department on Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, according to records recently obtained by The Independent.

The first incident was reported to LHPD Detective David Bonessi by Interim Finance Director Misti Hancock on Nov. 30.

According to the police report, which The Independent acquired though an Open Records Request, Hancock said City Accountant Lindsay Strothman first notified her of a possible banking scam on Nov. 12. Strothman said she was communicating with vendor Silsbee Fleet via email about an outstanding invoice when she received an email from them with updated banking information to send the payment to.

Strothman updated the banking information she had on file and electronically trans-

ferred $45,522.35 to Silsbee Fleet to pay the invoice.

Strothman said at a later date, she got a call from Silsbee Fleet saying the invoice still had not been paid, according to the report.

This is when Hancock and Strothman reviewed the email correspondence between Silsbee Fleet and Strothman and noticed during the back-and-forth communication the emails she was receiving changed slightly, by just one letter.

Hancock said she contacted Wells Fargo Bank to alert them of the fraud, but they stated the account was legitimate and there was nothing they could do to reverse it since the City of Liberty Hill initiated the money transfer, according to the police report.

The second incident was reported on Dec. 7 to Bonessi

by Consultant Staff Accountant Jennifer Calvert.

According to the police report, Calvert stated she started receiving emails on

See CITY, Page 2

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer A trio of football players at Liberty Hill High School took their teamwork above and beyond when they set out together to start a fundraising page for their beloved substitute teacher, Terry Cork, when they found out she was going through some tough times.

The players, sophomore running backs Noah Long, Ben Carter and Joe Pitchford, came together in the midst of preparing for their state championship game to help Cork, who was subbing in their AP World History class before the holidays, when she made the announcement that she could no longer work as a substitute teacher.

“She told us she was going to have to take on a full-time job,” Long said. “She said she needed to take care of her family and she mentioned her heater was out, so we thought if we started a GoFundMe, we could maybe help her out a little bit and raise a couple hundred dollars. Ms. Terry is a very positive person, so it worried us when she brought this up because she never brings up From left, Noah Long, Terry Cork, Ben Carter and Joe Pitchford stand together at Cork’s home anything like that.” just before the Christmas holiday. Together, the three Liberty Hill High School sophomores spearheaded a GoFundMe page that raised more than $13,000 to help Cork, who is one of their See DONATION, Page 4 favorite substitute teachers, care for her family. (Courtesy Photo)

LHISD hoping to attract next generation of educators

By KRISTEN MERIWETHER Staff Writer As potential applicants came in to the Liberty Hill ISD Job Fair at Santa Rita Middle School on Dec. 8, they walked past the gym where a basketball game was being played.

They could hear the roar of the crowd and see how involved parents are in the school.

As they stepped down into the cafeteria to speak with individual principals, the smell of a freshly baked pizza lingered in the air. Hors d’oeuvres and bottled water were waiting in the kitchen.

Applicants also had individual face time with Superintendent Steven Snell and Executive Director of Human Resources and Operations Bob Mabry. Open conversations were welcomed, no questions were off-limits.

With exponential growth projected for the district and open positions to fill now, LHISD is doing everything it can to entice the next generation of educators to Liberty Hill.

“Traditionally, the past few years, you’ve posted on the website, and people come to ©2021 The Liberty Hill Independent

you,” Mabry told The Independent. “Now we’re trying to get it out there a little more.”

In November, the district attended a job fair at Texas State University in San Marcos. Instead of just setting up a booth and hoping graduates would come to them, the district also organized a meet and greet outside the event. They invited everyone who signed up for the job fair and had younger LHISD teachers on-hand to share their experiences working in Liberty Hill.

The turnout was lower than expected, but it allowed the district to test new ways to reach recent grads. It also provided a way to get contacts and get LHISD’s name in front of coveted graduates.

Snell stands behind the extra effort, but he also knows he has a winning product to sell.

In a time when educators can choose to work anywhere in the country, he is banking on the work the district has put in to create an environment where educators can succeed and grow as professionals.

“Employees take care of each other. There’s a friendly atmosphere focused on students and there’s opportunity for growth inside our system,” Snell said.

He said both the current and

next generation of teachers want to be empowered to do great things for students, including working in an environment where they can take creative risks to create great lessons for the students. Since those are already part of the strategic plan and part of the daily actions, the district is in prime position to acquire top talent.

LHISD is starting to become a destination district. Mabry said they regularly hire teachers that were working in nearby Leander ISD and Georgetown ISD. “We have really been fortunate with experienced teachers who will come here, even if pay isn’t as high as their former district, just to be a part of our Panther family,” Mabry said.

Part of that is due to the district’s reputation for success, not just in the classroom, but at

See RECRUITING, Page 4

Local lost in fatal Christmas Eve crash on RM 1869

By KRISTEN MERIWETHER Staff Writer A local family is in mourning following a fatal Christmas Eve crash on RM 1869, two miles west of Liberty Hill.

According to a preliminary report from the Texas Department of Public Safety, two off-road motorcycles were traveling westbound in tandem on RM 1869 at approximately 6:14 p.m. on Dec. 24.

Neither motorcycle had front or rear lights, according to the report.

A 2009 Ford Escape traveling westbound struck both

motorcycles, causing both riders to be ejected. Cheyenne Mather, 48, of Liberty Hill, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The second rider, whose name was not provided in the report, was transported to Seton Williamson Hospital in Round Rock.

A GoFundMe set up by Garrett Hicks said the second rider was Mather’s boyfriend, Matt. A last name was not included. The Independent was unable to confirm the identity of the second rider with DPS by press time this week.

The driver of the Ford fled the scene, but was later located, according to the report.

CHEYENNE MATHER The name of the driver was not provided. The preliminary report did not indicate any charges filed against the driver.

See MATHER, Page 3

Liberty Hill Youth League addresses growth with additional fields, split leagues

By KRISTEN MERIWETHER Staff Writer When Jake Thomas, president of the Liberty Hill Youth League, saw the signups for the 2021 Fall Baseball Season it was almost double the previous year. With only two fields and growth projections expected to increase in the coming years, he knew the league had to make changes—and quickly.

The LHYL recently invest-

ed $52,000 for fencing and dugouts for two new fields behind the Liberty Hill Independent School District Administration Building. The league will use volunteers to get the fields ready to play by spring, but amenities such as lights, scoreboards, stands and a sprinkler system will have to wait.

The league is hoping to raise an additional $100,000 to help finish the amenities for the fields and also hopes to

add five new batting cages adjacent to the new fields that everyone in the league can use.

“That $100,000 would really help us get to a better fan and player experience,” Thomas told The Independent. “The on-field stuff is where we would really put that money.”

The two additional fields will provide much-needed relief for the upcoming season, but

See LHYL, Page 3

Page 2

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By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer After a lengthy discussion about the lack of an ordinance within the City of Liberty Hill regarding tree mitigation, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 3-1 on Dec. 21 to deny tree removal for the future Popeye’s development at Stonewall Crossing on Highway 29.

The request, which asked to remove a total of 14 live oak and hackberry trees ranging in size from 10 to 48 caliper inches, was submitted by Popeye’s so site development could begin.

Planning Director John Byrum said the City doesn’t have an ordinance regarding tree removal other than a statement that the request for removal of trees needs to come before the Planning and Zoning Commission for approval.

“What the applicant is proposing to y’all tonight is that they are willing to pay $20,000

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Thursday, December 30, 2021

to be set aside for parks, and then they will develop the site kind of similar to the landscape plan they used for their Buda [development],” Byrum said.

The Buda landscape plan includes ground-hugging landscaping materials like decorative rock and shrubbery, Byrum added.

Chair Steve Messana said the commission was in a tough position to decide without having a tree ordinance. He referenced surrounding cities’ tree ordinances, including Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock and Buda, and found that all four cities essentially have the same mitigation process when it comes to paying a fee in lieu.

“In looking at those four cities, if you calculated what the mitigation payment would be, the low one would be Round Rock at $115,000 and the high one would be Buda at $136,000,” he said. “I’m concerned about setting a prec-

edent by accepting any kind of fee, because we’re then assigning a dollar value to the tree removal at this particular property. That puts us in a difficult situation going forward.”

Commissioner Chad Cormack agreed and said if a developer goes to another city like Round Rock and must pay $115,000 for tree mitigation, but could go to Liberty Hill and pay nothing, then allowing the tree removal at the Popeye’s site is a no from him.

“I don’t want all of the cheap development to get pushed out here because we don’t have ordinances in place,” he added.

Commission Jon Mathiasen felt the tree removal should have been approved and was the lone no vote.

“It’s not that we don’t need an ordinance, we do,” he said. “But whatever decision we make today is not setting something for the future. If the City comes back in with an ordinance tomorrow, that’s

the new future. Our actions to date would be nullified by an ordinance that’s put into place in the future.”

Following their vote, the commission directed the planning staff to fast track a tree mitigation ordinance.

“That way we can apply the same rules and regulations consistently in the community, which we can’t do at the moment,” Messana said.

Byrum said staff would work to have an ordinance drafted by the Commission’s Jan. 18 meeting.

Also last week, the P&Z discussed sending a recommendation to City Council to amend the code of ordinances to add breweries, distilleries and wineries as approved entities for commercial zoning (C3) in addition to light manufacturing (I2). Staff was directed to draft an updated ordinance and it will be brought back to P&Z at its first meeting in January.

the real and fraudulent emails was identical.

Identifying who purchased that domain name would likely lead to those involved with this fraudulent bank transaction, Bonessi said in the report. The domain name of “StegerBizzeli.com” was purchased from Wild West Domains, LLC, according to the report.

“We took the initial police reports and we have passed them off to Williamson County,” Chief Royce Graeter told The Independent. “Because these crimes happened in our jurisdiction, we asked Williamson County to do the full investigation. I basically don’t want the City to be investigating itself.

This is now an open investigation with the County.”

In addition to asking the

Williamson County Sheriff’s Office to take over the investigations, the incidents have also been reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Division, according to a statement released by the City of Liberty Hill.

Also, according to the statement, other attempts to commit cyber fraud were discovered and intercepted without a financial loss to the City. The City is now reviewing all processes and procedures and is working with law enforcement to reduce the risk of future cyber security attacks.

“The Mayor asked that we do a press release because she was made aware that The Independent was made aware of the cyber fraud and so we just wanted to address it,” said Hale. “Unfortunately, at

this time, due to the fact that it’s still an open investigation, there’s nothing else I can share.”

According to the FBI, cyber criminals target organizations that use cloud-based email services to conduct these scams, called business email compromise (BEC) scams. Between January 2014 and October 2019, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received complaints totaling more than $2.1 billion in actual losses from BEC scams.

“This stuff is rampant,” Graeter said. “They hit municipalities a lot. If the scammers can hack in, they will. Every once in a while, one gets through. We’ve had a bad time lately with [cybercrimes] and scams across the board.”

Williamson County is asking residents planning to use fireworks over the New Year’s holiday to check local laws before lighting those sparklers and roman candles.

The City of Liberty Hill ordinances say, “No person may sell, offer for sale, give away, use, receive, or manufacture any fireworks within the city limits.” The misdemeanor is punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.

According to a map provided by the County, all of the major cities in Williamson County have some kind of ordinance prohibiting fireworks. But there is no fireworks or burn ban in place for unincorporated areas of the County. Fireworks are, however, prohibited in all Williamson County parks.

If you plan to shoot fireworks, the National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends the following tips: • Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.

• A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.

• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.

• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.

• Never relight a “dud” fire-

work. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.

• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

• FAA regulations prohibit the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.

• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

Continued from Page 1

Oct. 13 from an individual she believed to be Brandy Broderick, an accountant with the City’s engineering firm, Steger Bizzell. Broderick was asking about the status of unpaid invoices owed by the City of Liberty Hill. Calvert said she received numerous emails from this person during the month of October asking about the status of payment.

On Nov. 2, Calvert responded to Broderick and confirmed a payment was made to the original bank account on file for Steger Bizzell, according to the report. Calvert said she followed up with Broderick via a phone number listed in an email, and during the phone call, the person Calvert was speaking to requested a change to their banking instructions.

On Nov. 5, Calvert updated the banking information on file for Steger Bizzell.

According to the report, Calvert called a known phone number for Broderick on Nov. 17 and left a voicemail stating that she should expect the money to be transferred to the new bank account they had emailed about. The following day, two electronic banking transfers were made to the updated bank account. The first transaction was for $40,464.53 and the second transaction was for $83,029.07. That same day, Broderick called Calvert back and told her she had never emailed the City of Liberty Hill to request the city send the money to a different bank account.

Calvert immediately reported the potential fraudulent emails and bank transfers to City Administrator Lacie Hale, according to the report. Upon further investigation, Calvert discovered a slight variation in the email of the person she thought was Broderick and Broderick’s actual email address. The only difference in the two email addresses is the second “L” in Bizzell was replaced with an “I” in the fraudulent email account.

Calvert also said the body, signature line and footer of both

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Thursday, December 30, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Was the State 5A title about two cities, two schools and two teams playing football?

Or was it something else?

By WILT CUTTER Columnist In the weeks after what should be the afterglow of a state championship game, I’ve seen some media attempts to subtly suggest there are underlying messages to a great game, a great season, a great team and a running game dynasty.

Folks, this game was great because it was the Texas 5A Championship between two well-matched teams from very different football regions. This game was especially great because it was played by students representing their schools and their communities. It was not a statement about the social ills of America, critical race theory or any other man-made political issue. It was a football game.

Since then, social media has lit up with the shrill political polars attempting to reshape a football game into something else.

The closest this game came to being about philosophy was the style of play. True football fans deeply appreciated the run versus the pass, the size versus speed. The

LHYL

power versus strategy. It was a great game and the outcome was unknowable for most of the time. The teams, while very different, were evenly matched by experience, skill and athleticism.

Some self-proclaimed social media sports experts referred to it as the past versus the future of high school football.

What silliness. The future of football will be determined by the skill, determination and abilities of teams of the future, as it always has been.

Now, the Dallas media have begun to list the GPAs of the South Oak Cliff team. Did someone make a claim that the other team weren’t good students? Of course they are smart kids, they also are state champions. I’ve seen other posts claiming that one of the teams had over-age adults playing football. The UIL has strict rules about eligibility.

That’s going to be more false, divisive folklore.

Liberty Hill football fans come in only two flavors: a) Purple - singularly devoted to the Panthers as representatives of this tiny town at the foot of the Shin Oak Ridge between the forks of the San

Gabriel River on the Northernmost end of the Texas Hill Country; or b) Football experts who have graciously bequeathed us their empirical wisdom, eldest son and temporary property tax dollars as they pass through to the NFL. As a part of Tribe Purple, I can tell you that I am okay with the perma grins that form across hometown fans as they stare down onto the field at our wiry, fast boys and their improbable journey of cramming the football into tiny spaces week after week. I’m even good with people holding campfire seances down at the Blue Hole with the spirits of great coaches like Charlie Braun and Jerry Vance. (You could just call their cell phone or catch up with them at the Dairy Queen.) But whatever works.

I am okay with Tribe B sharing their in-depth sports expertise on Facebook. It’s their First Amendment right to trash the success that brought the team to the playoffs in the first place, holler/blame coaching (also highly successful) and advocate against running the football. They can say whatever they want

and share all their California ideas with us ad nauseum. But I admit that if one more football genius recommends “recruiting” bigger players for the line positions I may place a brick of limburger cheese under their Monday morning recliner with a post-it note that says “HIGH SCHOOL.” Liberty Hill earned its place in the state playoffs by being the best and beating the best.

The game was a huge fight as the state championship should be. The game was very close and the kids represented their communities well. Repeat this to yourself. Liberty Hill, Texas, played for the state football championship against a Dallas team, came very close to defeating them in front of a national audience in Cowboy Stadium. It was a football game. A very good one.

And that’s all it ever was.

Go Panthers!

Wilt Cutter is the only man in the world whose name is his profession. He finds beauty in the naturally occurring poetry of the Shin Oak Ridge and its people. His typewriter hates injustice.

Continued from Page 1

with the school district expected to double in size by 2025 it’s more of a stop-gap than longterm solution.

“It helps us right now,” Thomas said. “What we really need is the ability to have at least one more softball field, and then potentially, four more baseball fields.”

Thomas said the end-goal for the new additions to the fields would be to host tournaments in addition to the youth league games. It would keep the league on-par with other Williamson County leagues like Georgetown, Cedar Park and Round Rock.

But where to put those fields and how to pay for it remain an unsolved problem. The league is only funded through player fees and donations. Thomas said the league has held lengthy discussions with the City of Liberty Hill, but when the league went before the Parks and Recreation Board earlier this year to ask for $34,000 to help pay for the fences, the request was turned down.

“We have been in discussions with them [the City] about a potential complex. But unfortunately, things with the City takes quite a bit of time,”

reation. Those teams can help players learn the basic skills and get opportunities to play more positions.

“What we’ve discovered is as we’ve grown, we’ve actually gotten less competitive with our neighbors,” Thomas said. “We’re a little bit behind in skills, so this allows us to help foster that to those who want them.”

Thomas said the changes are not intended to turn the LHYL into a select league, but to be able to offer a league

LHISD clear bag policy begins Jan. 1

By KRISTEN MERIWETHER Staff Writer Starting Jan. 1, 2022, fans attending home Liberty Hill ISD athletic events will be required to use a clear tote bag not to exceed 12” x 6” x 12”.

Non-clear backpacks or bags, or clear bags bigger than the approved size will not be permitted.

At home football games a staff of roughly a dozen

stadium workers are tasked with searching bags for 4,000-5,000 fans each game.

Searching bags has slowed down entrance into games, something the district aims to avoid going forward.

“It’s very hard for our game employees to manage the sheer amount of things people bringing into the stadium,” said Superintendent Steven Snell. “Having clear bags will just help manage the crowd

OBITUARY George Allen Spencer George Allen Spencer, 74, of Liberty Hill, Texas passed away on Monday, December 13th, 2021 surrounded by his family.

George was born February 4, 1947 in Carlsbad, New Mexico to Raymond and Lois (Wheeler) Spencer. He served in the United States Navy with a tour in Vietnam. He married Pamela (Gentry) Spencer in Carlsbad, New Mexico on July 25, 1965.

He attended Austin Community College and was employed as a machinist for IBM and retired in 1998. He also worked as a machinist for Justec and then Absolute Machine until he completely retired. He was a member of The Hill Baptist Church and the VFW. He loved playing games, hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, playing with his grandkids and just being around his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond and David Spencer; cousin, Kenneth Spencer; and grandson, Justin Bogart.

He is survived by his spouse of 56 years, Pam Spencer of Liberty Hill, Texas; Daughters, Valorie Burton and husband Ken of Liberty Hill, Texas; Sherri Gribble and husband Ted of Paris, Texas; Karen Orr and husband Daniel of Spring, Texas; and Misty Alanis and husband, Tony of Spring, Tex-

as; grandchildren Josh Bogart, Jacob Bogart (Dalgis Blanco), John Bogart, Chloe Burton, Jonah Bogart, Victoria Del Valle (Andres), Alex Gribble, George Gribble, Crystal Carroll (Cody), Ethan Orr, Katy Orr, Elly Orr, and Savanah Alanis; great-grandchildren Kinley, Annalise, Becca, Carter, Aurora and Ian; brother Floyd Spencer (Debbie); sister Raylene Spencer; sister-in-law Mary Spencer; and sister-inlaw Carolyn Spencer.

A time of visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, January 3rd, 2022 at Ramsey Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 4th, 2022 in the Chapel of Ramsey Funeral Home. Mr. Spencer will be laid to rest at Liberty Hill Cemetery with Military Honors rendered by the United States Navy.

MATHER Continued from Page 1

A Liberty Hill Youth League softball team. (Courtesy Photo LHYL Facebook) Thomas said. “We just didn’t have time to wait. We had to move quickly with building additional fields.”

When the new fields come online they will accommodate a new league structure for baseball to help foster a more competitive environment. The American League will feature a small set of teams that more talented players can join.

The majority of the league will be National League teams that are more for rec-

Page 3

and the space.”

All items brought into sporting events are subject to search and prohibited items must be returned to the owner’s car or thrown away.

Exceptions to the clear bag policy will be made for credentialed media and those with necessary medical items, but only after proper inspections at designated areas.

Complete local news and sports coverage,

to both types of players.

“Not everybody wants a highly competitive eightyear-old division, and that’s very understandable,” Thomas said. “We’re trying to offer it without telling the kids to leave the organization and go select.”

Registration for Spring Baseball and Softball 2022 is now open through Feb. 1, 2022.

Mather was known for her wild cowgirl spirit and infectious laugh, friends say. Her family was well known on the rodeo circuit with her father, James, being inducted into the Liberty Hill Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2014. Her son, Cimarron Rucker, began competing in Professional Bull Riding this year.

Mather began working at Hometown Watering Hole in Bertram this summer to help out her life-long friend Susan Anderson, who owns the bar.

The Bertram bar posted about the loss on Facebook on Christmas Day. “If you knew her you knew how BIG she loved, how incredibly fierce she was, and how infectious her laugh and wild cowgirl spirit was,” the Facebook post said.

Anderson told The Independent that Mather was dependable, trustworthy and gave more than 100% every day.

She said Mather was a total cowgirl who loved her bling and bright colors. But it was her ability to love big that will be missed the most.

“She always made sure that

everybody that she ever knew or that she cared about knew that they were loved,” Anderson said. “She would say it out loud and make sure that you knew that you were important to her and you knew that she loves you.”

A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Jan. 4, 2022, at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown. A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 5 at Elroy Foust Cemetery, 4450 RM 1869 in Liberty Hill. Following the graveside service about 1 p.m., a reception for family and friends will be held at the Mather Arena.

A bank account has been created at Vera Bank in Liberty Hill to assist the family. The account is in Cimarron Rucker’s name, or donations are accepted by Venmo @Cimarron-Rucker.

Contributions are able being accepted to help offset the cost of the reception. More than 250 are expected to attend. Those contributions can be sent to cash app $CheyenneMather or to Anderson at Indian Mound Ranch.

Shin Oak Ridge Bulletin Board

Send news to: News@LHIndependent.com Chisholm Trail Quilt Guild meets Jan. 4

The next meeting of the Chisholm Trail Quilt Guild will be at 10 a.m. Jan. 4 via zoom. Beth Cunningham will kick off 2022 with a program titled appropriately: “Inspiration to Creation”.

Contact president@ctquiltguild.org if you would like to be a visitor. This is our last

zoom meeting.

The Jan. 5 workshop is “Dresden Village”; an appliqué wall quilt that is scrap friendly, fun and comes together quickly [in-person].

For more information, visit our website.

Liberty Hill Garden Club meets Jan. 11

The Liberty Hill Garden

Club meets Jan. 11. The club welcomes Bill Nieman of the Native American Seed Company, who will present “Land Restoration and Urban Lawn Replacements”.

Meetings are in-person at the Cowboy Church -- 9:30 a.m. social, 10 a.m. meeting.

Visit website for more information, or write to gardenclublibertyhill@gmail.com.

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Page 4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, December 30, 2021

Local Girl Scout troop spreads wildflower Bid 2021 adieu with a seeds at Lions Foundation Park First Day Hike in 2022

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer Come next spring, Lions Foundation Park will be a lot more colorful thanks to a troop of local girl scouts who decided Liberty Hill needed its own official patch of bluebonnets for family pictures.

The girl scouts, all fifth graders from Troop 40100, planted 10 pounds of bluebonnet seeds near the International Sculpture Park in early December for their bronze award, which is one of the top awards girl scouts can earn.

Troop Co-leader Alisia Lucas said the troop initially got the idea to plant seeds after learning from a magazine article that girl scouts were the ones who started the trend of seeding bluebonnets along the highways in Texas.

“The CEO of the San AnRACHEL MADISON PHOTO tonio Area Council of Girl Scouts was the one who start- The scouts of Troop 40100 planted 10 pounds of bluebonnet seeds at Lions Foundation Park ed collecting the seeds, and earlier this month for their Bronze award. The idea behind planting the flowers was to create a then she started having Girl safe place for families to take bluebonnet photos in the spring.

“Each of us came the next day, Scouts spread them all over seeds for a total of $390, they Knot, the Liberty Hill DevelTexas highways,” Lucas said. sprang into action to get them opment Foundation Board and some of the girls raked up asked the girls to plant the the dead grass and things like “This was in 1923. We thought planted somewhere safe.

“We decided to plant them in seeds there instead. that,” she said. “After that, we that was a good tradition, and “It was really good for the each took some seeds and each there’s only one little patch of the sculpture garden by Noble bluebonnets in Liberty Hill, Elementary,” said Girl Scout girls to hear maybe their idea of us got our own little section over on Highway 29 by Coun- Josey Law. “We were [orig- wasn’t the best and kind of and we spread them out in that try Girl Consignment, and it’s inally] going to do it by the have to collaborate with Li- area and then watered them. It ons Foundation Park to come was really fun.” not a safe place to pull over and train tracks by the library.”

Each girl in the troop wrote up with a better solution that Lucas said the troop will take pictures. The girls wanted to find a place to plant bluebon- a letter to the board explaining works for the park and works most likely have to return a why they felt the seeds should for the families of Liberty Hill few times over the next few nets that was safe.”

Troop Co-leader Racheal be planted in the park. Lucas to be able to have a good place months to water the seeds if it doesn’t rain enough. The troop James said it was difficult for said because of the recent res- for pictures,” Lucas said.

Before planting, the seeds had also plans on installing a few the troop to find bulk seeds toration of one of the sculpat a price point they could af- tures, John’s Knot, as well as to be soaked in water for 24 signs to let people know there ford—their budget was $500 or the relocation of a few other hours, said Girl Scout Kendall is new wildflower growth in the area. less—but once they found the sculptures closer to John’s Nichols.

DONATION

Continued from Page 1

The students immediately started a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $5,000 and started sharing it among their classmates via Snapchat. The description on the GoFundMe page for Cork said: “Hi my name is Noah and I am a student at Liberty Hill high. Mrs. Terry is a sub at our school and everyone loves her. She has to take time away from subbing to start a full time job. She has always believed in taking care of family first and currently doesn’t have the funds to do so. We were hoping to raise enough money for her to fix her heater and continue to do what she loves. Thank you [sic]” Carter said within the first couple of hours after the page went live, the amount donated was over $2,000. By the end of the day, they had exceeded their goal of $5,000.

“We didn’t really expect to get $5,000, but everybody was in the mood to donate,” Long said. “I think everybody was in the Christmas spirit.”

By the end of the second day, the total amount raised was $13,018 through 256 donations, many of which came from students and their parents after the word got out on other social media channels like Facebook.

“Once the page got out on Facebook, things really took off,” Long said. “Everyone started donating.”

In addition to the donations, Austin-based heating and air company Service Wizard heard about the fundraiser via

Facebook and offered to fix Cork’s heater free of charge.

The GoFundMe was turned off at the end of the day on Tuesday, after more than $13,000 was raised, so the students could start the withdrawal process and get the money to Cork quickly.

“She was subbing in the office last Thursday, so it worked out for us to tell her then,” Long said. “She was very emotional. She was very thankful and said she didn’t deserve it, but she definitely did.”

Last week, the students visited Cork in her home to deliver a check with the funds raised.

“I am so honored and in shock still,” Cork told The Independent. “I’m probably the luckiest person in the world because I get to do what I love to do. I was caught off guard to be loved so well. I’m pretty headstrong and independent, and this was such a gift.”

Long said Cork is a favorite among his classmates because she develops a personal connection with everyone.

“There’s not a single person she doesn’t know,” he said. “Every Thursday that she subbed before our games, we’d always talk about football, and she’d wish me luck.

She developed a personal relationship with everyone.”

Long added that Cork, 76, also does her best to keep up with the current trends.

“Ms. Terry tries to be as hip as possible,” he said. “She always starts her class with trending dance moves, like a Tik Tok dance.”

Carter said because she’s been subbing him, Long, and hundreds of other classmates for the last six years—since they were in fourth grade— Cork has been a major influence on many of the students.

“She’s always there for everyone,” he said.

She’s been just as influential on newcomers. Pitchford, who has only been in the school district for about a year, said he was proud to be a part of something that took off so quickly.

“I moved here from Leander, and I’m very happy to be a part of a community where miracles like this can take place,” he said. “Liberty Hill is a very strong community.”

Cork said she knows Long, Pitchford and Carter worked hard alongside the rest of their football team to make it to the state championship game, and while it was a tough loss for the team, she believes they are winners all the same.

“I know they wanted to win that game, but they won so many other things so far that tell me so much more about who they are,” she said. “They are just amazing.”

While Cork said she will still need to take a hiatus from subbing, she won’t be far. She has taken a full-time position with the special education department at Liberty Hill Middle School through the remainder of the school year.

“I took some full-time work for the next five months because I just need the income,” she said. “Some days have

been more of a struggle than others, but I just need to keep my family together the best I can. We have a few issues going on that I don’t want to bring up because I don’t want to embarrass them, but I need to take care of them.”

Cork said she hopes to return to substitute teaching in the future.

“I’m going to miss her, but I know she’ll be back for us,” Carter said.

Cork said ultimately, it’s not about the money donated to her at all, it’s the fact that a few students thought enough of her to help her with some of life’s trials.

“That’s not to say the money won’t help me get over some humps and get us back on our feet, because it will,” she said.

“But this is about a bunch of kids who loved me back as much as I love them, and they wanted to give back some of that love. These kids are the champions of my life.”

She added that she feels like “the grandma of the building” at LHHS, and she loves each of the students as if they were her grandchildren.

“I value every moment I have with them,” she said. “They are so special and unique. I try to encourage them to believe in who they are, and that they can accomplish whatever they choose to accomplish. The gift they’ve given me—there aren’t enough words in my heart to comprehend all of this. It’s such a gift of love.”

From Staff Reports AUSTIN— Welcome the new year with a First Day Hike at one of 89 Texas State Parks. Parks statewide will be hosting self-guided and guided events so visitors can walk, bike or paddle their way into 2022.

First Day Hikes at Texas’ state parks and natural areas aim to help visitors commit to their New Year’s resolutions to get healthy.

Last year, 2,668 visitors ushered in 2021 by hiking, biking and riding a total of 8,173 miles statewide. Find a list of this year’s First Day Hikes on the TPWD calendar page.

“Each new year brings about new opportunities and a fresh start for a new adventure,” said Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks.

“Many first-time park users chose state parks last year and discovered the joys of getting outdoors. We cannot wait to welcome those visitors back again in 2022. I want to invite all visitors, new and returning, to join us in beginning 2022 with a First Day Hike at your favorite Texas State Park.”

Trails at Texas State Parks range in length and difficulty levels across the state. Some short, easy trails are perfect for family-friendly scenic strolls, while others are more strenuous for experienced hikers. Trail maps for all Texas State Parks can be found on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) website and individual park webpages.

Anyone planning a trip to a State Park is encouraged to reserve a day pass in advance since some parks are expect-

ed to reach their capacity limit. Reserve day passes online through the TPWD reservation website or by calling (512) 389-8900.

Start the year off with a splash at the 6th annual Dino Dive from 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at Dinosaur Valley State Park. Plungers will meet at the Rock Beach by the Main Track Site and are encouraged to bring a towel, water, change of clothes, and a costume or fun outfit. Participants must register online to receive a medal for jumping into the frigid Paluxy River.

All proceeds benefit Dinosaur Valley’s Friends group.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Fort Parker State Park with a late-night hike. The easy half-mile guided hike starts at 10:30 p.m. Dec. 31, exploring the Bur Oak Trail with black lights. The fun will continue with a “Riddle-Me-This” scavenger hunt until 12:30 a.m. Jan. 1, 2022. The night will conclude at a campfire with hot chocolate and cookies. Visitors are encouraged to bring a flashlight, wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Put the pedal to the metal for a First Day Bike Ride at San Angelo State Park. This guided bike ride begins at 2 p.m., Jan. 1, and visitors must bring their own bike and helmet to participate. Participants enter through the South Gatehouse located at 362 South FM 2288, San Angelo, TX, 76901, then meet at the Chaparral Pavilion.

For more information about hiking or other activities in Texas State Parks, visit http:// www.texasstateparks.org.

RECRUITING

Continued from Page 1

UIL competition as well.

The high school marching band came within .6 points of heading to the State competition this fall. The high school robotics team made it to the State competition last month.

And the athletics programs have continued to shine this year with the high school football team making it to the State Championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

The team lost a heartbreaker to South Oak Cliff 14-23, but the district’s name and their state-bound football program made news across the state.

That has allowed the reputation for success to spread beyond Williamson County.

Andrew Gochis drove in from Waco to attend the Dec. 8 Job Fair in hopes of securing a position in the district.

The teacher and coach said he sees the football program in the playoffs every year and has noticed the school’s success at other UIL events.

“When you see that, it means that the administration strives for excellence. People in the school are student-first minded.” Gochis told The Independent after the job fair.

“Having an administration and support group that backs students is really important to me.”

Whether it’s succeeding in sports or academics, both are helping to attract the next generation of talent.

“Whatever it is, we want excellence across the board,” Snell said. “I think excellence is a good recruiting tool as well.”

Don’t get caught in the cold.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year.

We look forward to serving you in 2022!

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SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, December 30, 2021 Page 5

Senior Baylee Laird (#12) and the Lady Panthers’ basketball squad endured a tough first season Jackson Knox (#8) and the Panthers’ baseball team were highly competitive, but missed out on in Class 5A in missing the playoffs with an 8-14 overall record on the season. the playoffs by a single game in the standings.

2021 was challenging year for Panthers A look back at winter and spring Liberty Hill sports

Editor’s Note: This is the first in a two-part series reviewing Liberty Hill High School’s year in sports. In part two next week, we’ll begin with the fall team sports in leading up to the end of 2021.

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Looking back at the calendar year of 2021 and what it meant for the Liberty Hill Panthers provided us a mixed bag of results, as the Purple-and-Gold proceeded through the second half of its first school year as a Class 5A program and the first half of its second campaign in the higher classification.

Going all the way back to January, we had the football team’s prolonged run to the state semifinals in a season that stretched past the new year due to its late start, only to end in heartbreaking fashion with a devastating overtime loss to Crosby on the final play of the game.

To be continued later on that one.

In part one of this two-part

series, we’ll have a look at the team sports from January until the end of the 2020-21 school year.

Basketball Both of the Panthers’ basketball squads competed hard in difficult districts against much more rugged competition than they were accustomed to in the old Class 4A days.

The boys’ team secured a playoff berth with a thirdplace finish after posting an 8-5 mark behind Georgetown and Glenn, who both finished 12-2.

However, their hopes of a lengthy playoff run were dashed with a 62-56 defeat at the hands of Dripping Springs at Austin High School in a game they led at halftime, 3324, only to be outscored by a 38-23 margin over the final two quarters of the contest.

Liberty Hill finished the season with an overall record of 19-8.

The occasion marked the first time in head coach Barry Boren’s 19 seasons on the Liberty Hill sidelines when

his team made the playoffs, but failed to advance past the opening round – a reality that was quite evident to the veteran bench boss in the aftermath.

“The last 18 years, we’ve had some kind of trophy,” said Boren. “We had three goals going into the season – to win 20 games, to make the playoffs and to advance in the playoffs and we only got one out of three. It’s disappointing, but it’s not the end.”

The Lady Panthers had a difficult time, to say the least, in their first season sailing Class 5A seas and not helping matters was the fact there were three ranked teams in their district in Georgetown, Glenn and eventual state champions Cedar Park.

Despite back-to-back wins over East View (57-52) and Rouse (45-40) to begin the second half of the district schedule, the Lady Panthers failed to qualify for the postseason after a 4-10 league mark doomed them to a sixthplace finish in the standings and an overall record of 8-14

for the season.

As a result, it was back to the drawing board for head coach Chris Lange, as he was on the verge of losing eight seniors off his squad and was looking to infuse some youthful enthusiasm into his roster – along with a self-examination, he said.

“We’ll bring in some new players and try to put the pieces right back together again,” said Lange. “But, I think you always have to re-evaluate yourself at the end of every season.”

Lange said one of the biggest factors in his team’s malaise last season was a lack of identity.

“I think we struggled to find a voice,” he said. “We had lapses in concentration and focus and you can’t make mistakes like we did against any team – it was just a tough season.”

Soccer One Liberty Hill team that had no problem whatsoever adjusting to Class 5A competition was the Lady Panthers soccer team, which boasted a

roster chock full of talent and experience led by head coach Darren Bauer.

Ironically enough, the Purple and-Gold’s campaign would begin and end with bookend defeats to Dripping Springs, with the latter being a 2-0 loss in the third round of the state playoffs after having lost, 1-0, to the Tigers in the season opener.

In between, Liberty Hill was constantly tested like never before all during district play, particularly by nearby neighbors Georgetown.

The first meeting between the Lady Panthers and the Eagles resulted in a 1-0 home defeat for Liberty Hill, which dealt them its first district loss of the season.

However, in the rematch three weeks later on Georgetown’s field, the Lady Panthers claimed a 3-1 victory that clinched the district title with a 13-1 record and the top seed from District 25 going into the playoffs.

But, following convincing 4-0 and 8-0 victories over

Canyon and Medina Valley, respectively, the Lady Panthers took the field at Westlake High School in Austin to once again face the same squad they had begun their season against in Dripping Springs, where their march ended.

Despite the defeat, Bauer was pleased with the overall effort of his team over the course of the entire campaign, he said.

“I think this season was a tremendous success,” said Bauer. “Short of our goal, but we proved we still belong with the powerhouses of 5A and we aren’t going to stop playing the way we always have. To keep improving, we just have to keep working hard and keep pushing through the tougher times.”

For the boys, though, it proved to be a rather rough go for the Panthers, as they struggled through a season that saw them finish with an overall record of 6-12-3, including a 2-9-3 district mark, which resulted in a fifth-place finish in

See REVIEW, Page 7

Becker headed west for college volleyball

Senior outside hitter signs with West Texas A&M

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Although Emma Becker’s senior season of volleyball ended prematurely when the Lady Panthers’ outside hitter suffered torn ankle ligaments, which required surgery early on in the campaign, it certainly didn’t derail her ambitions of continuing her career at the next level.

Becker has signed a national letter of intent to play at West Texas A&M University, where she will have her long-awaited opportunity to play college volleyball.

According to Becker, the choice to attend the NCAA Division II school in Canyon, which is a member of the Lone Star Conference, was largely due to the ability of her new home to provide her with much the same kind of environment as her current one.

“It just really feels like a family out there,” said Becker.

“It’s still a pretty small town and there’s a real sense of community where everyone is friendly.”

Despite having only played 14 matches before being injured at the Westwood Showcase in Round Rock on Aug. 14, Becker still racked up 111 kills during her final, abbreviated campaign in Purple-and-Gold and will certainly provide her new team with a vast arsenal of skills, said Liberty Hill head coach Gretchen Peterson.

“Emma is a great athlete – she’s phenomenal,” said Pe-

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Emma Becker (#5) has her sights set on college volleyball after signing a national letter of intent to play at West Texas A&M University.

terson. “She would make any team better.”

Becker burst onto the scene as a sophomore for the Lady Panthers after she and her family moved to Liberty Hill from Hutto, where she competed for the Hippos her freshman year and it wasn’t long before she made herself a mainstay in her new team’s lineup.

In fact, Becker did much more than just that in garnering District Most Valuable Player honors after a stellar season which saw her record a squadbest 5.2 kills per set, but also showed her all-around versatility by averaging 12.4 assists, 7.3 digs and 1.3 blocks per set.

But, that was only the beginning for Becker, who continued to soar during a junior season in which she led Liberty Hill with 193 kills and was second with 306 assists, third in aces (28), tied for first in blocks (46) and third in digs (184) – all during the Lady Panthers’ first season as a Class 5A program.

However, as most college athletes quickly learn, being at the collegiate level is certainly a far cry from their highschool days – both athletically and academically – but, it’s a transition Becker feels confident she can make, she said.

“I feel like college is a much bigger commitment,” said Becker, who plans to study business and communications.

“You’re never really done with volleyball – your whole life revolves around the game –

studying, keeping your grades up and staying in shape.”

The Lady Buffs are an upand-coming program, having posted a 21-4 overall record this season and Becker said she’s pleased to be joining a team where she can integrate her skills and help it achieve even greater results in the future – despite the fact she’ll once again be on the low end of things as a freshman.

“I’ve already done it before,” she said, of being a rookie on a veteran squad after having been on Hutto’s varsity as a freshman. “You just have to go in with confidence and show them what you can do even if there’s a senior ahead of you.”

Peterson said Becker’s wide-ranging set of tangibles and intangibles will serve her new team just as well as it did the Purple-and-Gold for the past three years.

“Emma brought a specific skill set to our team that was very valuable and allowed us to have more depth,” she said.

“She’s a go-getter and she’s going to be challenged, but I think that will only bring out the best in her.”

Now that she’s on the cusp of finally having the chance to play in college, Becker can hardly wait to begin.

“Every single day for me has gone into this sport,” said Becker. “I’ve worked so hard, so I’m really excited to have this opportunity and take it as far as I can.”

THE INDEPENDENT IS THE TRUSTED SOURCE FOR LIBERTY HILL SPORTS! SUBSCRIBE lhindependent.com/subscriptions

Page 6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Rowley signs with Memphis college

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor For Maddi Rowley, leaving home to play college volleyball has always been about far more than simply continuing her playing career.

It’s all about family.

The Liberty Hill senior outside hitter has family in Tennessee, including her father, stepmother and siblings and has long desired to continue her playing career where she can include them in her adventures.

“I’ve missed out on my siblings growing up,” said Rowley. “I wanted to be close enough so I can be a part of their childhood.”

Rowley will now get that chance after signing a national letter of intent to play at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee.

Of course, Rowley will be leaving other family members – including her mother – behind as she leaves Liberty Hill behind for the Volunteer State and despite the fact she’ll be in close proximity to other loved ones, the move away from home is still a bit daunting to her – especially leaving Texas in the rear-view mirror, she said.

“I think the biggest thing for me will be the fact I’m away from home by myself for the first time,” said Rowley. “Also, being in a whole different state, so I’ll have to be super independent and focus on being on my own and not always having my mom around.”

On the court, Rowley will face the usual adjustments of a high-school player that moves up to the college level, although going to Christian Brothers – which is an NCAA Division II program – at this particular time offers an intriguing opportunity – even for a freshman.

The Lady Buccaneers posted a 3-28 overall record last season, including a 1-15 mark in the Gulf South Conference, which means there are potentially opportunities for a first-year player to make a bigger impact than usual, said Rowley.

“They’re rebuilding the program,” she said. “So, I’m going in to it with the mindset

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Maddi Rowley (#11) has signed a national letter of intent to play volleyball at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee. like I’m going to be part of the change and the coach brought me here for a reason, so I won’t be scared.”

Rowley led the Lady Panthers with 434 kills during her senior season in Purple-andGold, ranked second with 346 digs and was third on the squad with 48 aces in playing all 48 matches of the season, one of only two players on the team who accomplished that feat and was also named first-team all-district.

According to Liberty Hill head coach Gretchen Peterson, Rowley is well-equipped to handle the challenges she will face on and off the court.

“Maddi is a really strong, confident person and she’s never afraid to take risks,” said Peterson. “Even when she first moved here as a freshman, she had a real confidence about her, so I think she’ll do a really good

job and make an impact there.”

Rowley compared her experience as a Lady Panthers rookie to what she’s about to revisit with her new team and believes it readied her for what is down the road.

“At first, you’re kind of nervous the other girls won’t like you,” she said. “But, I’ve been in that position before where people eventually come around.”

As far as her choice to leave the land of barbecue behind for the home of honky-tonk, Rowley said she wanted to challenge herself in an additional way beyond the traditional growing pains of a brand-new college student.

“I wanted to leave my comfort zone and be committed to being part of a change,” she said.

“It will help me grow as a human being and make me more well-rounded.”

Thursday, December 30, 2021

Hodges signs with Sul Ross for softball

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Sometimes in making a choice, an unintended bonus arises from the decision that makes the result even more appealing.

For Liberty Hill senior softball player Madison Hodges, choosing Sul Ross State University to continue her playing career at the college level provided one such example.

“It’s a rodeo school,” said Hodges, who has signed a national letter of intent to play for the NCAA Division III Lobos. “I grew up on a ranch and have a horse.”

However, despite the fact Sul Ross does indeed compete in the rough-and-tumble arena of bull riding, saddle bronc and barrel racing, Hodges will only be a spectator at those events while she plays for the softball squad.

Another factor in her choice was the school’s location in the Alpine, a city of just under 6,000 in the Big Bend area of West Texas that suits her just fine on the size scale, she said.

“I’m a country girl,” said Hodges. “So, I liked it because it’s a small town.”

Hodges plays second and third base for the Lady Panthers, but definitely prefers the hot corner due to the frantic nature of the position, she said.

“At third, the ball is hit harder and comes at you a lot faster,” said Hodges. “You don’t have time to think – you just need to react, which is good for me because if I overthink, I’m more likely to mess up.”

At the plate, Hodges is a hitter who focuses more on power than contact and knows when she moves up a notch on the competition ladder, the pitchers she’ll

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Lady Panthers senior Madison Hodges has signed a national letter of intent to play softball at Sul Ross State University. be facing will be more wily than at the prep level, which is something she will need to be wary of, she said.

“I usually have a good eye, but I think my pitch selection is something I still need to work on,” said Hodges. “Also, getting my bat to be a bit faster.”

Liberty Hill head coach Kristen Brewer is one who knows all about the transition from high school to college softball, as she played at Sam Houston State, an NCAA Division I program and said it’s simply a matter of getting accustomed to the higher caliber of pitching at that level.

“It’s really a patience deal more than anything else,” she said. “You just need to get at-bats, but also be watching pitchers’ tendencies even when you’re in the dugout.

But, Madison has a powerful bat and good reactions.”

Despite a relatively shy nature, Brewer said Hodges opens up once she warms up – a progression that has manifested itself over the course of her time with the Lady Panthers.

“I think the longer we’ve had her in the program, the more

vocal she’s gotten,” said Brewer. “But, she’s really the kind of kid who just goes with the flow and has her friends within the team.”

Hodges’ father, Randy, also played third and pitched for Concordia University, so it’s only appropriate she should man the same position as her dad – who is one of many loved ones she’ll leave behind on her college adventure.

“I’m a really big family person,” she said. “So, being away from them will be one of the most difficult parts.”

Hodges plans to study sonography, which is the use of sound waves to produce images from inside the human body, most notably in detecting unborn infants – which is exactly what she yearns to do.

“It would be so fun to work with babies,” she said.

Chances are whatever Hodges sets out to do she’ll likely accomplish, said Brewer.

“Madison is the kind of girl where if she really wants to do something, she’s going to put the work in,” she said. “She’s not going to let anyone stop her.”

A heartfelt thank you to the community for trusting us with your real estate needs this year.

We look forward to making your real estate dreams come true in 2022.

Adrienne Hughes

Cheryl Stephens

512-810-0185

512-417-0026

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

Thursday, December 30, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page 7

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTOS

(TOP) The Lady Panthers soccer team celebrated a district championship with a stirring 3-1 road win over Georgetown before advancing to the third round of the state playoffs.

(RIGHT) The boys’ basketball team could only console itself after a first-round playoff loss following a season that saw the Panthers post an overall record of 19-8 and a third-place district finish with an 8-5 mark.

(ABOVE) Senior Amber Williams (#10) and her teammates missed out on the postseason with a 13-16-1 overall record.

REVIEW

Continued from Page 5

the standings and a failure to make the playoffs.

The Panthers defeated Georgetown, 2-0 and also prevailed Marble Falls by a 2-1 score to go with draws against Marble Falls (0-0), East View (1-1) and Glenn (3-3) in the regular-season finale.

Baseball Liberty Hill’s baseball team was looking for a strong season on the heels of a playoff run the previous year in its final Class 4A campaign.

However, despite finishing with an overall record of 2011-1, the Purple-and-Gold just missed out on a postseason appearance after finishing the district schedule with an 8-6 record, a game short of the fourth and final playoff spot.

“I would say we had a com-

petitive season,” said head coach Steve Hutcherson, of the Panthers’ first as a Class 5A club. “But, to say it was a success would be a bit of a stretch because we didn’t meet one of our goals – which was to make the playoffs – but I loved how competitive we were.”

The Panthers’ undoing turned out to be their inability to prevail in close games, losing four district contests by a single run.

Looking back on the campaign, Hutcherson realizes the slim margins by which his team missed out on a playoff appearance is what needs to be focused on most moving forward.

“We have to strike out less – that’s a bottom-line thing,”

he said. “We had some great defensive games this year, but we still need to make fewer errors – especially at critical times in games.”

Hutcherson said the most rewarding aspect of the season was the fact his club looked like they belonged in the higher classification.

“What I was pleased most with was we never looked out of our element,” he said.

“We played against historically-good programs and went toe-to-toe with them.”

Softball Unfortunately for the Lady Panthers softball squad, it suffered the same fate as its baseball brethren in failing to qualify for the state playoffs after a season that saw them post an overall record of 13-16-1, with

a 4-10 district mark, resulting in a seventh-place finish in the standings.

Liberty Hill had four ranked opponents in its district, including No. 1 Leander, along with Georgetown, East View and Glenn.

However, head coach Kristen Brewer certainly wasn’t going to use tougher competition as an excuse for her side’s struggles.

“I don’t think it was necessarily more difficult,” she said. “Besides, we’re the one coaching staff who doesn’t talk about ranks. We tell our players we can beat anybody if we show up every day and love the game.”

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WORSHIP GUIDE Andice Baptist Church

Come check out Selah Hills Church!

When you do, you will find a church that is full of joy and love, and you will meet some of the friendliest people you’ve ever known. We are serious about God’s Word and reaching our community with the truth of the Gospel. We have thriving children’s and youth ministries and we teach through the entire Bible without skipping over any of it. Service times are Sundays at 9am & 11am, as well as a midweek service on Wednesdays at 7pm. We hope to see you and may God bless you in Jesus’ mighty name!

6570 FM 970 Florence, TX 76527 (254) 793-2557 www.andicebc.org PASTOR Derrick Norris, Senior Pastor Matt Koehler, Associate Pastor of Students & Families SERVICES Sunday Bible Study 9:45am Sunday Worship 11am Wednesday AWANA 6:30pm Sunday Online www.facebook. com/andicebaptist/

Cross Tracks Church

101 Church St. Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 515-0070 www.crosstrackschurchumc.org PASTOR Michele Lott SERVICES Sunday School 9am Sunday Worship 10am Sunday Online https://www. facebook.com/crosstracks church/

Fellowship Church

3600 RR 1869 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 515-5579 www.fellowshiplh.com PASTORS Tim McIlhaney, Dan Riemer, Ed Billock & Angel Perez SERVICES Sunday Worship 8:30am & 11am Servicio española a las 11am Sunday Bible Study All ages 10-10:45am Wednesday Bible Study All ages 6pm

The Hill Church

111 Holmes Road Liberty Hill, TX 78642 www.fbg.church PASTORS Tim Richardson, Pastor Kendall Ringler, Youth Pastor SERVICES Sunday Worship 10:15am Sunday Online 10:15am www.facebook.com/thehill church.church

Liberty Hill & Surrounding Communities

Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church

5205 County Road 236 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 782-9940 www.annunciationtx.com PASTOR Bp. Irineos Placek SERVICES Vespers, Sat. 6:30pm Divine Liturgy, Sun. 10am

Life Springs Christian Church

15611 W. State Hwy 29 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 633-6074 lifespringschristianchurch.org PASTOR Dr. William Brannan SERVICES Sunday Bible Study 9am Sunday Worship 10am Sunday Online www.youtube.com/c/ LifeSprings/live

Mission Liberty Hill Lutheran Church

(LCMS Affiliated) 15725 W. State Hwy 29, Ste.7

Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 778-9310 www.missionlibertyhill.com PASTOR Rev. Mike Cofer SERVICES Sunday Bible Study 9am Sunday Church Worship 10am Sunday Online 10am https://missionlibertyhill.com/ onlineworship/

New Life Church

1015 US-183 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 567-3809 www.newlifechurch.family PASTORS Stephen Behrman, Senior Pastor Kimberly Behrman, Worship Pastor SERVICES Sunday Worship 10am Wednesday Bible Study/Livinit Youth 7pm Sunday Online https://new lifechurch.family/media/livestream

One Chapel Liberty Hill

811 Loop 332 Liberty Hill, TX 78642

(512) 729-6200 www.onechapel.com/liberty-hill PASTOR Darren Shaw SERVICES Sunday Service 10am Online Service 10am https://online.onechapel.com

Selah Hills Church

14370 W. SH 29, Suite 10 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (833) 735-2489 www.selahhillschurch.com info@selahhillschurch.com PASTOR Chris Wimberly SERVICES Sunday Services 9am and 11am Sunday Youth Service 11am Wednesday Services 7pm Wednesday Youth 7pm Roam Coffee Shop Thurs-Sat 7am-2pm Live Stream www.selahhills church.com/livestream Call (512) 778-5577 to include your church in our weekly Worship Guide.

Page 8

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SERVICES COMPUTER TUTOR At your place, at your pace, I can help you with your computer, iPhone, iPad, or tablet.

Helpful tips and tricks. Reasonable rates. Call Karen, 432553-2468.

(12/23p)

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY In accordance with the Texas property code, Chapter 59, Panther Storage and Parking 15725 west highway 29 Liberty Hill, TX 78642. Will conduct a Public auction to satisfy a landlord’s lien. Units will be sold to the highest bidder on-

line at storageauctions.com A $100 Cash clean up deposit is Required.

Seller reserves the right to with-draw any unit or not accept any bid at the time of sale. Sale will be held online at storageauctions.com starting on or after December 23, 2021 and bidding will close on or after January 6th,2022 at 12:00 noon. General description of contents: Personal belongings, furniture, clothing, tools, Home items. Names of Tenants as they appear on the lease: Thurmis Brown, Eduardo Paredes, Gregory King, Catarina Thornburg, Esiquio Deleon. Tenants may redeem their goods for full payment in cash or money order only up to time of auction. Call Panther Storage and Parking at 512515-5430.

(12/30p)

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.

(12/30)

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Liberty Hill has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for a Zone Map

Amendment from the Agriculture (AG) zoning classification to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning classification on the following property: Being approximately 25.621 acres out of the R. West Survey, Abstract No. 643, locally addressed as 15830, 16000, and 16030 Highway 29 W, Williamson County, Texas, and identified as Assessor’s Parcel Numbers R023037, R023052, R023051, R023054, and R023044.

In accordance with Section 211.006, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on this application will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas on Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 at 6:30 PM. Upon receiving

HOMES AROUND THE HILL 2 Homes/Guest House - 4.95 acres Miller Creek Turner Estates Turner Estates Turner Estates Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Amifast Amifast Amifast Amifast Amifast Amifast

Ind Ind Ind Ind Ind Ind

Park Park Park Park Park Park

Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Sunset Oaks Durham Park Luciano Cabasos - .41 acres Liberty Parke Liberty Hill - 76 acres Highland Lake Estates - Lago Vista Hornsby, J - 4.6 acres Flores Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Kempner Ranch - 40 acres Mesa Vista Ranch Marble Falls Florence Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Home + In-Law House, No HOA - 10 acres Grayson, Leander Sunset Oaks - 3 acres Hidden Meadows - 2 acres Bertram - 10 acres Watson Place, Bertram - 5 acres Liberty Hill - 17 acres Luciano Cabasos Durham Park Florence Buttercup Townhomes Hillcrest Cantarra Meadows/Pflugerville Llano Iron Oak - 2 acres Summerlynn - Leander Near Downtown Liberty Hill University Park - Georgetown San Gabriel River - 3/4 acres Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Liberty Hill - 2.2 acres

Homes for Sale 4BR/4BA Acreage / Lots / Property for Sale 1303 CR 255 Fully fence, power, 30x40 workshop 1611 CR 255 AW0478 Northcross, J. Sur 1619 CR 255 AW0478 Northcross, J. Sur 1633 CR 255 AW0478 Northcross, J. Sur TBD Lobella Bloom Bend Lot 90, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 74, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 79, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 87, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 73, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 76, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 88, Block 1 Phase III Commercial Property for Sale 100 Bevers No restrictions, water available 110 Bevers No restrictions, water available 118 Bevers No restrictions, water available 126 Bevers No restrictions, water available 129 Bevers No restrictions, water available 145 Bevers No restrictions, water available Under Contract / Pending

1601 CR 256

TBD Red Yucca Ct TBD Red Yucca Ct TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl 0 CR 269, Lot 33 800 Double File Trace 550 Hopewell Rd 637 Independence Ave 4060 CR 201 20701 Harrison Cv 1840 CR 226 550 Stadium Dr

TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Lobella Bloom Bend TBD Red Yucca Ct TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 12 Cloudwood Ranch Rd 820 Panther Creek TBD Red Yucca Ct 337 Granite Row Tract 3A N Hwy 195 TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl 2150 CR 282 144 Syrah Court 631 CR 269 1103 CR 204 CR 321 240 Floyds Run 17600 W State Hwy 29 1540 W Hwy 29 500 CR 288 Tract 4B N Hwy 195 401 Buttercup Creek Blvd 120 Crestview Dr 13500 Kearns Dr 504 E Green St 232 Oak Hill 104 Falcon Lane 3103 CR 1869 2006 E 18th St 121 River Rd Lot 22 Cloudwood Ranch Rd 140 Shin Oak Lane

Lot 83, Block 1 Phase III Lot 85, Block 1 Phase III Lot 75, Block 1 Phase III Lot 72, Block 1 Phase III Lot 71, Block 1 Phase III Old barn & septic 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 3BR/2B - Barndominium & Shop Electricity & water available 4BR/2BA Cleared & level Sold!

Lot 81, Block 1 Phase III Lot 82, Block 1 Phase III Lot 92, Block 1 Phase III Lot 80, Block 1 Phase III Lot 24, Block 1 Phase III Lot 89, Block 1 Phase III Lot 91, Block 1 Phase III Lots of trees 3BR/2BA Lot 84, Block 1 Phase III 3BR/2BA No restrictions, Ag exempt Lot 77, Block 1 Phase III Lot 78, Block 1 Phase III Lot 70, Block 1 Phase III 2BR/3BA + 3BR/1BA - Pool 3BR/2.5BA 3BR/3BA 3BR/2BA River front & trees 4BR/3BA 3 Homes & Barn 2BR/1BA Trees, electric, water No restrictions, Ag exempt 2BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/2BA - Game Room 3BR/2BA 4BR/4BA 4BR/2.5BA - 2 car garage Commercial, Mixed Use 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA Lots of oaks, backs to creek 3BR/2BA + pool

3112 sq ft

Cheryl Stephens

$ $

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

500,000 199,900 199,900 235,000 202,000 212,000 229,000 404,000 210,000 418,000 248,000

14.75 acres 2.15 acres 2.25 acres 2.75 acres 2.02 acres 2.12 acres 2.29 acres 4.04 acres 2.10 acres 4.18 acres 2.48 acres

Dax Oglesby Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise

$ $ $ $ $ $

550,000 460,000 365,000 275,000 980,000 680,000

1.05 acres 1.04 acres 1.04 acres 1.05 acres 4.49 acres 3.110 acres

Shane Shane Shane Shane Shane Shane

2.01 acres 2.85 acres 2.75 acres 2.19 acres 2.03 acres 2.4 acres 1708 sq ft 1389 sq ft 1521 sq ft 1624 sq ft .394 acres 2432 sq ft

Tammy Wise

2.01 acres 2.01 acres 2.07 acres 2.01 acres 2.04 acres 2.02 acres 2.04 acres 7.74 acres 4483 sq ft 2.01 acres 1913 sq ft 11.3 acres 2.37 acres 2.17 acres 2.03 acres 3353 total sq ft 1482 sq ft 2984 sq ft 1641 sq ft 10 acres 3118 sq ft 1800 sq ft 1180 sq ft 2.19 acres 20.9 acres 1280 sq ft 1568 sq ft 2507 sq ft 1671 sq ft 2800 sq ft 2044 sq ft 968 sq ft 1404 sq ft 1440 sq ft 4.25 acres 1611 sq ft

Tammy Wise

$ 995,000

$ 201,000 $ 285,000 $ 275,000 $ 219,000 $ 203,000 $

140,000

$ 535,000 $ 195,000 $ 367,000

$1,999,000 $

60,000

$ 379,000

$ 750,000

$ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 207,000 $ 201,000 $ 204,000 $ 202,000 $ 204,000 $ 255,000

$1,200,000 $ 201,000 $ 379,009 $ 338,168 $ 237,000 $ 217,000 $ 203,000 $ 970,000 $ 375,000 $ 500,000 $ 450,000 $ 425,000 $ 810,000

$1,600,000 $ 250,000 $ 225,000 $ 564,300 $ 275,000 $ 235,000 $ 420,000 $ 200,000 $ 765,000 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 315,000 $ 230,000 $ 197,500 $ 430,000

1.337 acre Side-Pad

T. T. T. T. T. T.

White White White White White White

Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise

Shane T. White Adrienne Hughes Shane T. White Shane T. White Tammy Wise Dax Oglesby Shane T. White Shane T. White

Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise

Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Tammy Wise

Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Tammy Wise Tammy Wise

Tammy Wise Sabrina Jordan Adrienne Hughes Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Shane T. White Shane T. White Dax Oglesby Shane T. White Shane T. White Cheryl Stephens Sabrina Jordan Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Dax Oglesby

Thursday, December 30, 2021

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NEWS@LHINDEPENDENT.COM a recommendation from the Commission, the City Council will conduct its own public hearing and take final action on this matter on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022 at 6:00 PM at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas. For more information, you may either visit the Development Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 778-5449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov.

By order of the Director of Planning on December 22, 2021.

(12/30) LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Liberty Hill has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for a Zone Map Amendment from the Agriculture (AG) zoning classification to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning classification on the following property: Being approximately 20.36 acres of Lots 6 and 7 of Twenty-Nine Ranch subdivision, locally addressed as 9975 and 10085 State Highway 29 W, Liberty Hill, Williamson County, Texas, and identified as Assessor’s Parcel Numbers R331214 and R331215.

In accordance with Section 211.006, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on this application will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas on Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 at 6:30 PM. Upon receiving a recommendation from the Commission, the City Council will conduct its own public hearing and take final action on this matter on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022 at 6:00 PM at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas. For more information, you may either visit the Develop-

ment Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 778-5449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov.

By order of the Director of Planning on December 22, 2021.

(12/30) LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Liberty Hill has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for a Zone Map Amendment from the Public/ Community Facility (P) zoning classification to a General Commercial/Retail (C3) zoning classification on the following property: Being approximately 1.178 acres of Block I, Lot 1, Heritage Ridge subdivision, locally addressed as 13001 State Highway 29 W, Liberty Hill, Williamson County, Texas and identified as Assessor’s Parcel Number R605649.

In accordance with Section 211.006, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on this application will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas on Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 at 6:30 PM. Upon receiving a recommendation from the Commission, the City Council will conduct its own public hearing and take final action on this matter on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022 at 6:00 PM at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, Texas. For more information, you may either visit the Development Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 778-5449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov.

By order of the Director of Planning on December 22, 2021.

(12/30)

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900 Quest Parkway Cedar Park, TX 78613