LH INDEPENDENT 9-23-21 by The Liberty Hill Independent

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2021

Volume 34, Issue 44

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September 23, 2021 | 50 Cents

Parents share concerns about masks, bus safety, books

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer School trustees listened as parents expressed their concerns Monday about the district’s protocol on wearing masks, bus safety, library books, and the dress code. However, ofﬁcials followed their policy of not engaging with speakers during the public comments. Trustees heard from three members of the public. Cindy Hauser addressed the board about literature and COVID mandates. “We chose this district because it’s more traditional and conservative, and we want that for our children,” she said. “We’ve seen right here, neighboring school districts where the school board allowed pedophilia in the school library. Forever changing children because they can’t unread what they read. I can assure you that this community will not

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

LHISD Trustees (left) listened as awards were presented to students, teachers and staff members during their regular meeting Monday. Part of the meeting was held outside for extra precaution, but the Board reconvened indoors for their regular business and to hear comments from parents concerned about the district’s policy on masks, bus safety, and books available in libraries. tolerate this type of literature. Every parent here deserves the right to see what is going on in our schools’ buildings at all times. Your faculty desperately needs and deserves to have

volunteers in your buildings.” Hauser praised the school for not mandating mask-wearing but asked them to go further by not encouraging employees to wear them.

“I can see that for a school district trying to please everyone and hoping to create the best scenario for students and faculty, highly suggesting facemasks is an understand-

Last week push to donate coats to Operation Liberty Hill

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer Although temperatures remain warm, Operation Liberty Hill and the Liberty Hill Independent School District Police Department hope those in the community will start thinking about winter and donate coats for those in need. Coat donations will be accepted through Sept. 30 at barrels posted at each campus. “We usually just blast it on social media, and we usually wait until later in the fall,” said Operation Liberty Hill Executive Director Susan Baker. “So many things start happening in October, November, and December. We wanted to start something we could do right now to prepare for then. It might be 100 degrees today, but in eight weeks, we’re going to be wearing coats.” LHISD Police Chief Sharif Mezayek said his department wanted to team up with OLH to help the community with the coat drive as they do with food drives. “We feel there are a lot of

people that need our help right now,” he said. “With the pandemic and them being out of work, people are trying to get caught up.” Last year OLH was able to provide about 200 coats for children. Baker hopes the partnership with LHISD will allow them to serve a more significant part of the need in the community. “There are so many kids that need coats,” she said. “Not just heavy coats, but a light jacket. We’re hoping this will really bring a lot of coats for the kids. I’d like to see at least 1,000 (coats). It would be great if we could get 1,000 coats.” Mezayek believes the community is always eager to help and hopes they will accomplish the set goal. “Liberty Hill is a very tightknit community, and I think that is what makes it special,” he said. “It’s always important to keep in mind that we need to help each other out. It makes a better community.” CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO Baker said OLH serves about Operation Liberty Hill Executive Director Susan Baker shows off a Panther jacket to promote a coat drive in the school district See COATS, Page 4 to help those in need.

Local fabricator teaches his craft online

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer When Liberty Hill fabricator Joe Pieczynski recorded himself untangling a wolf spider by removing fuzz from each one of its legs one fateful morning, he never dreamed he would be viewed millions of times around the world. His YouTube ©2021 The Liberty Hill Independent

channel has racked up over 26 million views. “I had a buffer out in the shop that puts out a lot of cotton fiber,” he said. “One of these three-inch-long wolf spiders walked through and got all tangled up. He looked like a little fuzzy snowman just walking across the floor, and I felt bad. I didn’t want to see him die. I leaned down on the floor with a sharp piece of steel and some tweezers. When I pulled the stuff off his first foot, he stood

See ONLINE, Page 3

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

It took Liberty Hill YouTube celebrity Joe Pieczynski seven months and 30 videos to complete a scaled down 1890s engine lathe. His videos have about 26 million views worldwide.

able way to think,” she said. “You’re doing what is right. However, it is a harassing way of communicating and using your power in a threatening manner. A decision to continue

to suggest mask-wearing from a position of power does a few things. It makes your staff feel as if they need to comply to please you and remain in good standing with their superiors. It also confuses our children and creates fear.” Antonio Cañas addressed bus training requirements while referencing a traffic accident involving a school bus near Lively Ranch neighborhood. “I would like to know what kind of involvement and influence the district has when it comes to (traffic) lights … in communities like the one where I live,” he said. “We need a light. My kids need a light, and you guys know we need a light. Also, I want to know what the procedure is for bus drivers. Most companies have a no left-turn policy for intersections that don’t have a light.”

See LHISD, Page 3

Construction causes damage at Central Park

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer Damage left behind after a large water connection was installed at Central Park for the Butler Farms subdivision are set to be mitigated by developer MA Partners following a unanimous vote from the City’s Parks & Recreation Board Thursday. “A large water connection was placed at Central Park and lots of equipment was moved through there,” said Mayor Liz Branigan. “The soil was compacted, trees were damaged, and there’s now a large unsightly cement box there. I was surprised because this is obviously a park and not an appropriate place to put this connection.” Branigan added that because heavy equipment was driven across the park enough times, it formed a road through the center. “Unless we encourage the grass to grow there again, there will be a permanent eroded area,” she said. “It also looks like the trees above were hacked with a machete to cut off limbs to allow the digging equipment to go through, and they were not treated right.” Wyatt Henderson, of MA Partners, said it wasn’t his company’s choice to put the water connection box in the park, but he agreed his organization is responsible for the damages. “We were told to put [the connection box] there,” he said. “I like to say we follow the rules very well. We don’t decide where things go, that’s the city engineers that tell us where to put things. I will say how it was put in; we do have some responsibility for that. Obviously, we want to make sure it’s done right. We want to be good neighbors and we are willing to ﬁx this because

we feel it’s the right thing to do.” In their proposal, MA Partners said they would pay $59,000 for tree care, oak wilt prevention, root fertilization and aeration, and more for the next three years, to get the damaged trees back to a healthy state and to make sure they remain healthy, said City Administrator Lacie Hale. The developer also said they would pay an additional $25,000 for aesthetics at the park to be repaired and improved, including upgrading the path, shrubbery and turf and installing an irrigation system. “Because annual tree care is proposed for three years, that means that for three years the City doesn’t have to take into consideration the tree care and pruning of trees in Central Park because it’ll be taken care of,” Hale said. “This will be a savings in the Parks budget.” Hale added that MA Partners has also agreed to put up a bond equal to $200 per caliper inch in case any of the trees in the park do end up with oak wilt. “They brought this bond forth as a way to mitigate those damages and protect the trees,” she said. “The bond is for two years.” Branigan said she didn’t want the Council to decide on the proposal without input from the Parks Board because of its involvement with Central Park for the last several years. The Parks Board unanimously approved the proposal to be presented to the Council at a future meeting so that repairs can begin Also at the Parks Board meeting, Hale said a bid for the Liberty Hill swim center, to be constructed at City

See PARKS, Page 4

Page 2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, September 23, 2021

OBITUARIES Tommy Wayne Chapman

OCTOBER 5TH | 6:00-8:00PM LIBERTY HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is a national crimeprevention awareness event that is celebrated in Texas on the first Tuesday in October. Locally, we celebrate our police and neighbors with a community event at Liberty Hill Middle School. Get to know your neighbors, Liberty Hill Police Department, LHISD Police Department, emergency personnel, and volunteers! WWW.EXPERIENCELHTX.COM/NATIONAL-NIGHT-OUT

Join us for lots of fun!! • LIVE MUSIC • TUG-OF-WAR • PETTING ZOO • BOUNCE HOUSE

• HOT DOGS • ICE CREAM • FLYING DISC DOGS • EMERGENCY DEMONSTRATIONS

3RD ANNUAL BENNY BOYD PULLIN’ FOR THE COMMUNITY TUG-OF-WAR COMPETITION $1000 PRIZE Each team must represent a local non-profit organization (example: school organizations, booster clubs, FFA chapters, cheerleaders, band, church groups, veterans groups, etc)

Tommy Wayne Chapman passed away September 15 at the Bertram Nursing Home after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born March 23, 1955 in Georgetown, Texas to Dennis Sr. and Roberta Chapman. He lived his entire life in the Georgetown, Liberty Hill, and Bertram area. He graduated from Leander High School in 1973. He was a lifelong cowboy and rodeoed in his younger age. He loved horses and loved riding his own whenever he could. He was very active in buying and selling antiques, especially western items such as spurs and saddles. He owned and operated Chapman Environmental Services for many years until failing health caused him to disperse the business. He was preceded in death by his father and mother Dennis Sr. and Roberta Chapman, and infant brother William. He is survived by three broth-

ers, Dennis Jr and wife Karol Chapman of Georgetown, Bill Chapman of Liberty Hill and Robin Chapman of Georgetown. Two sisters Mary Chapman Wehlmann and husband Larry of Georgetown, Grace Chapman Acuff and husband Shane of Georgetown. Three sons Clint Chapman and wife Kristen their daughters Ellie and Eveline of Thorndale, TX, Cole Chapman and his daughter Sophie of Thrall, TX, and

Cheryl White-Sherman passed away September 18, 2021. She was born in Decatur, Illinois on March 6, 1943 to Dr. Lawrence E. Miller and Eva Durbin Miller. She was 78 years of age. She was a resident of Liberty Hill for the past year and for the prior 50 years lived in Burnet, Dripping Springs, and Austin, Texas. She passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends after battling COVID and subsequent complications. Cheryl was one of ﬁve children and was known for her feisty attitude and generous heart. She was charismatic, unshakeable and capable of making friends anywhere she went. Her presence was always known. She loved making handmade cards for people and for all occasions and was a member of the Eastern Star. Mammaw, as she was called by many, never hesitated to

make fun happen. Getting thrown out of ballgames for yelling at the ump, secret runs to Dairy Queen or Whataburger, and dancing in the kitchen are just small examples of the fun we shared! She will be missed by many. Cheryl is survived by her children, Cindy Lynn Millard and husband Allan, James Ray White and wife Kristi, Kyle Sherman and wife Tess. Eight grandchildren, Desiree’ McCullough and spouse Adam, Brandon Zuehlke and spouse Kimberly, Nathan Millard Wisdom and spouse Brad, Savannah White, Madisson White, Braelynn White, Gabrielle Millard, and Shaelynn White. Eight great-grandchildren, Adelyn Bauer, Maelyn Bauer, Matthew Zuehlke, Bailee Zuehlke, Daniel Zuehlke, Katelyn McCullough, Blakelyn McCullough and Chase Zuehlke. One sister, Eilleen

Chad Chapman and wife Britney of Taylor, and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 23 at 11AM at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel in Georgetown, TX. A special thanks to Bertram Nursing Home, and Texas Oncology. If so desired, donations can be given to your preferred charity.

Cheryl White-Sherman

Haney of Oregon. She is preceded in death by her husband Richard Sherman, her parents Dr. Lawrence and Eva Miller, a sister Charlotte, and two brothers Lawrence Miller and Dr. Clarence Miller. Services will be at Beck Funeral Home Cedar Park, Tuesday September 28, 2021. Visitation at 1:00 pm, Services at 2:00 pm.

Stansbury named LHISD Executive Director of Technology

Scott Stansbury was recently named LHISD Executive Director of Technology, bringing experience from Round Rock ISD where he served as the Director of Technology Infrastructure for eight years. In Round Rock ISD, he was responsible for overseeing the technology used by students and teachers throughout the district and for ensuring the availability of technology services. He was also responsible for managing large-scale projects, including those associated with the district’s technology bond programs and was involved in implementing risk mitigation strategies as part of the district’s cybersecurity program. Before moving to Round Rock ISD, he worked for the State of Texas for 17 years serving in various roles

starting with technical support and systems administration and ending his career at the State as a portfolio manager and solutions architect. Stansbury has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University and is a Registered Texas School Business Administrator. He is an active TASBO member and has presented on a process improvement and problem-solving framework tailored for education that he co-created while in Round Rock ISD. “I am extremely excited and can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and begin assisting Liberty Hill ISD with its technology needs. I have had the opportunity to work for several large organizations and I’m ready to apply what I’ve learned over the years to help Liberty Hill

SCOTT STANSBURY ISD grow and excel.” Stansbury and his wife, Jennifer, recently became empty nesters. Their daughter, Allyson, is a recent graduate from Sam Houston State University and is a ﬁrst-year 7th-grade math teacher and athletics coach in Huntsville ISD. Their son, Nathan, is a sophomore at Stephen F. Austin University and is majoring in sound, recording and technology

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Continued from Page 1

Michael Connaker spoke to the Board about the dress code, suggesting that limits to hairstyles and piercings are over-reaching. “Hairstyling along with ear piercings is a choice between child and parent on whether the child should be allowed to have them,” he said. “The current policy by LHISD is overreaching and infringing upon the decision-making settings and boundaries by parents. LHISD is effectively controlling the child outside of the school as unlike articles of clothing, hairstyles and ear piercings cannot simply be changed when going to and from school.” Connaker added that not allowing children to express themselves could cause severe mental issues in the long run. “My daughter … loved having a different hair color, and that made her very conﬁdent. Having to change that was very hurtful to her self-expression,” he said. “Work with parents such as myself to revise the current school dress policies so that these children can freely express themselves.” Later in the meeting, Superintendent Steve Snell provided a general update addressing some of the complaints aired by parents. He said the schools and staff are reviewing the books available for children in the libraries. He said a consul-

tation with the Texas Department of Transportation is in motion to plan a trafﬁc light at Lively Ranch, and spoke about the incident with the school bus. “Our police department is investigating the other wreck,” Snell said. “You all saw the news (on TV). We have some disagreements, obviously, with the accuracy of that report. Any time our drivers are in an accident or are perceived to have caused an accident, there is training that takes place to improve their skills.” Travis Motal, Director of Secondary Education and Director of Safety and Security, gave the Board an update about COVID-19 reporting and policies since their last meeting in August. Some of the updates included: a clariﬁcation to wait at home if pending a COVID-19 test result, a timeline of isolation for positive cases starting 10 days after a positive test result, and updated data charts of positive, active, and recovered cases within the district. He also said the district has contacted vendors to offer testing at the schools. “We are cautiously optimistic about our COVID numbers right now,” Motal said. “We are continuing our sanitation process as much as we can without overdoing it. We strongly encourage layers of

protection. We’re going to be transparent about our data.” During the Board’s regular business Monday, Trustees heard from Assistant Superintendent Todd Washburn about the possibility for virtual learning now that state funding has become available. He said about 345 of the 599 parents surveyed about their interest in virtual learning responded they were not interested, while 221 wanted the option to be available. Washburn said only elementary schools were surveyed because the higher grades would represent a more significant challenge due to more demanding staffing requirements. Snell added that the district already faces staffing difficulties, and the legislation adopted prohibits teachers from teaching both virtual and in-person classes, thus creating the need for additional teachers. Washburn said the virtual education option is still in the planning process. Also Monday, the Board heard an update from Casey Sledge, Program Manager for bond funds administration, who said that the 2018 bond program has spent about $93.1 million of the $98 million available and hoped to finish the projects without spending the total amount. He said the 2021 bond program, which includes 11 projects, has used

about $180 million of the $491 million available. He said the projects continue as scheduled with no delays or extra cost expected. Trustees also approved: - A contract with JPH Land surveying in the amount of $84,000 for surveying services for possible land acquisition as part of the 2021 Bond Program. - The purchase of one special needs bus and three general education buses using funds from the 2021 Bond Program from Longhorn Bus Sales L.L.C - Allowing Samco Capital to sell the second round of bonds for $121 million that would have to be paid in 40 years. SAMCO Senior Managing Director Duane Westerman said bonds would not be sold until 2022, but approving the sale now would allow them to be able to sell quickly whenever the market had a favorable yield. - Upgrades to high school softball and baseball batting cages funded from the excess 2018 bond in the amount not to exceed $574,000 to Hellas Construction. Sledge said the amount requested would be the maximum amount but expected the batting cages to cost less and would be ready by January before baseball and softball seasons start.

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perfectly still and raised each leg one at a time and let me do all eight legs.” At that time, the thought of recording the incident was nowhere near Pieczynski’s head. He said he was amazed by the interaction and pleasantly surprised when he was able to replicate it, this time with his camera at the ready. “Another crawled up under the road one day, same situation all tangled up,” he said. “I put the camera on the floor with a scale and X-Acto knife, and I filmed it. It went viral. The spider video got 2.8 million views. That was just an off-the-wall sensation. The rest of the videos all have north of a quarter-million (views) each.” Of the more than 300 videos on his channel, only a few contain arachnids. The vast majority display his 47 years of knowledge in fabrication and machining and how to build anything from a screw to fully functioning replicas of steam-operated machinery from the 1800s. “They’re not going to teach you these things in trade school,” said Pieczynski. “You’re going to learn this over 40-50 years of doing it. It is specifically designed to help new and existing machinists, garage guys, hobby guys, upper-level guys learn things that are not in the book.” The channel’s inception came to Pieczynski after he saw other videos on the subject that just did not sit well with him. “I was eating my lunch one day, and I was watching a video on what they call threading,” he said. “I watched so many videos that were just giving bad advice. I put my sandwich down, grabbed my Go-Pro, and I shot my first video. That video just turned into thousands of comments, thousands of questions, and thousands of views. I realized there was a demand for some type of tutorial or mentor in this field.” About 130,000 people are subscribed to Pieczynski’s channel, with his videos seen in 127 countries worldwide. “I get emails from Russia, New Zealand and South Africa,” he said. “I have a lot of supporters in the UK and all over the US. They have received me very well, and I am humbled by it. I had no expectations at all. I just wanted (to show them how I did it). I’ve done medical, I’ve done aerospace, I’ve

done military. I have done parts that are in orbit and parts that are circling the bottom of the ocean. I have filled the gamut.” Pieczynski knew from a young age he would spend his life making objects out of blocks of raw material. He was fortunate enough to be able to learn the craft during his formative years in school. “My school was a very technical high school,” he said. “When I walked into my first machine shop in 1970, and I saw the machines cutting wood and cutting steel and just chunking away. I just fell in love with the fact that if you can run that machine, you can make anything. A block of steel can just sit there and rust for a million years and remain a block of steel. If you can run that machine, you can turn it into something cool.” Originally from New Jersey, Pieczynski and his wife decided to move to Central Texas 25 years ago and live in Round Rock. “I have been in the same house since I moved to Texas,” he said. “My wife just got tired of the cold, and I got tired of shoveling snow at 3 a.m. six months out of the year, and I said ‘we have to do something different.” After a successful career as a designer for an orthopedic company in Austin, Pieczynski ventured out eight years ago and opened a shop near US Highway 183 in Liberty Hill. His shop Advanced Innovations LLC serves an array of customers in the medical field. “I customize, repair, and modify surgical tools to make them more comfortable and ergonomic for surgeons during the procedure,” he said. “I was former new product designer associate engineering for Sulzer orthopedics here in Austin. When word got out that a designer now has his place, I started getting requests. One turned into several thousand and turned into a full-tilt business.” Pieczynski makes and uploads about eight videos a month for his fans. He says he will continue making videos, but his customers will always come first. At age 63, he says he will continue tending to his viewers and customers until he can’t do it anymore. “I can’t imagine myself not doing it. I will do this as long as I’m breathing. I just enjoy the creativity of making something from nothing,” he said. Find his videos on YouTube by searching for Joe Pieczynski.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, September 23, 2021

LHISD Trustees recognize Students of the Month

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Boart members (in back) honored the Students of the Month from each campus during their regular meeting Monday. In front, from left, are Liberty Hill Elementary’s Madison Melchor, Bill Burden Elementary’s Kinsley Pearson, Rancho Sienna Elementary’s Presley Jones, Santa Rita Elementary’s Devani Shepard, Noble Elementary’s Dean Herzog, Liberty Hill Middle School’s Dallas Gurley, Santa Rita Middle School’s Jett Harrison, and Liberty Hill High School’s David Wilson.

PARKS

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Park, will be awarded at the Sept. 22 council meeting. “The bids have come in signiﬁcantly over what we budgeted, but in order to start reviewing the expenditures that could be cut, we need to award a bid,” Hale said. “For example, we could look into doing stucco instead of doing stone.” Hale said the bids were at an average of $2.2. million for the project, but the overall budget is set at $1.8 million. “This was a two-part bid: one for the pool and one for the lift station and force main,” she said. “Some bids we received were just for the pool, some were for the lift station and force main, and some were for both. The lift station cost came in about where we thought, but there’s been a signiﬁcant increase in supply and demand. In order for us to get into it, we need to award the bid and go through it and see how we can fall within that $1.8 million budget.” Hale also discussed upcoming park expenditures with the Board that will be directly related to the swim center, including pool operation, chemicals, employee labor, lifeguards and more. “I have reached out to the

City of Leander to get their budget for their swimming pool off of Bagdad because it’s the most comparable to our pool plan,” Hale said. “It has splash pad type features, which we will be implementing as well.” Hale said for now, the Council plans to approve a ﬂat budget for the Parks department of $132,500—the same as the previous year’s budget, which is what most departments are doing as the City’s 2020 audit remains incomplete. “We have ballparks as far as potential parks expenditures, but we will be able to come back and get into the weeds of that in October or November after we move forward with adopting a budget that is consistent with what is currently in place. In two to three months, we can do a full budget amendment to capture our additional expenditures for ﬁscal year 21-22.” The Parks Board also discussed its list of top priorities for each of the City’s parks, which were submitted anonymously by City Council members and Parks Board members at a workshop between the two groups last month. At City Park, trees were the No. 1 request, followed by lights

on the football and soccer fields, paved parking, a water bottle filling station, shade structure and wildflower area. At Central Park, top priorities are a water fountain, small amphitheater, natural play area, body weight workout area, seating and a playground. Pocket parks within the city were given the priorities of needing exercise equipment—especially along the City’s new shared use path—and partnering with local organizations for landscaping. Priorities for Veterans Park included replacing the dying trees there, as well as adding more foliage, flowers and a retired flag station. At Wetzel Park, music speakers, fun bright colors and a playscape were suggested. Other priorities for city parks in the future include a sports complex for baseball and softball fields, as well as hosted events like Shakespeare in the Park, a barbecue cookoff, a farmer’s market and movies in the park, among others. The next meeting of the Parks & Recreation Board is Oct. 21 at 6 p.m.

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CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Robotics team members from left, sophomore Soﬁa Ortiz, sophomore Dylan Couch, and junior Haylee Minton decorate the robot they used for last year’s competition during the tailgate for a recent Panthers’ football game.

Robotics team offers chance to hone math, science skills

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer Students at Liberty Hill High School build robots and compete against other schools around the nation and the world. More than 40 students participate in the robotics team at LHHS. Engineering teacher and Robotics coach Daniel Paschal said participation numbers continue to rise as their ﬁrst competition approaches. “Forty-plus kids is a lot,” he said. “Five years ago, when I started, I had six kids. We placed in the top 10 as a small school, and we placed in the top ten as a big school. I don’t have to encourage them. They want to do this. These are good kids.” During the fall, students compete in Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology (BEST) competition. As part of the tournament, students build a robot from scratch using only the materials provided. The contest started Sept. 18 at Hutto High School. “We ﬁgure out what the theme is, we get our kits. We have eight weeks to build the robot. They give us plywood, plastics, some miscellaneous hardware, some aluminum, and PVC pipe. We have to build the robot using only those materials,” said Paschal. The students’ creation then competes against other schools in several tasks. However,

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Paschal said the robot’s performance is only 15 percent of the score. The students are also graded on their engineering notebook, marketing presentation, team display, interview process, and spirit and sportsmanship. “The kids try to sell the judges into investing money into their fictitious business,” he said. “It’s real-world stuff. I think it is very good for kids to be involved in this type of stuff.” Sophomore Sophia Ortiz was fascinated by robotics since she saw her brother participate in the team. She plans to enter the medical field after she graduates and use what she learns to help others. “I’ve always found it very intriguing,” she said. “I really like the team atmosphere. Everything that we do, we do together. It’s really a team effort. Technology is big in the medical field right now.” Haylee Minton, a junior, joined robotics at the directive of Paschal, who told her how hands-on the club was and how it would help her put to practice what she was learning in class. “I really like the bonding with others in the club,” she said. “Everybody is so welcoming, and it’s really fun.” Sophomore Dylan Couch has always been intrigued by engineering. “I’ve always liked science,” he said. “I like building the bot. I want to go into A&M for

Continued from Page 1

300 families in the area and hopes they can get enough coats to distribute to each family member in need. “There’s a lot of families in this community that can’t afford to buy coats for their children every year,” she said.

“It’s not like with adults that can wear the same coats year after year. Hopefully, it will encourage people to give us their gently used coats or buy a new coat when they go to the store.” Mezayek said that if com-

mechanical engineering. It just makes sense to me.” Paschal said the district provides transportation for the team and accommodations if the team makes it to State, but the club depends on donations, grants, and a booster club to enter competitions that come with a hefty price tag. “Our ﬁrst year, we got a grant from NASA,” he said. “There’s money out there for new teams. They want you to get involved. After that it’s almost pay your own way. Now we’re facing this situation where we start in January, and I don’t know how we’re going to pay for it.” LHHS Robotics Booster Club Secretary Deborah Levee said the group promotes the club in the community to help them raise funds for competitions. “The competitions cost so much,” she said. “We have business sponsors. We have grant writers. We need to raise at least $5,000 to help cover the cost of our spring competition, which is called FIRST Robotics Competition. That competition can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000, depending on how far our team advances.” Businesses or community members interested in sponsoring the team can contact the club at LHHSroboticsboosterclub@gmail.com or donate at VENMO account: @LibertyHillHighSchool-Robotics

munity members want to donate coats but don’t want to go into the schools, someone from LHISD PD can pick up donations. Call (512) 2605532. Monetary donations are accepted at https://operationlh. org.

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SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, September 23, 2021 Page 5

Getting reinforcements ready

Lady Panthers’ bench undergoes trial by fire

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor During the Lady Panthers’ away match against Leander, last week there was a constant shuffling of the lineup as players were shuttled back and forth between the sidelines and the court over the course of Liberty Hill’s three-set victory. One of those players was Keegan Walton, a sophomore defensive specialist who is new to the Purple-and-Gold this season after having transferred from the Meridian School in Round Rock, where she featured as a freshman for the Lions’ varsity. As a result, Walton has not only had to integrate herself into a new program, but also an entirely different kind of competition than she had previously experienced. “It’s definitely a lot higher level here than at my old school,” said Walton. “But, it’s good competitive play.” Walton is among a host of young players Lady Panthers head coach Gretchen Peterson

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Underclassmen such as Keegan Walton (#7) and Brooklyn Escobar (#15) have been successfully integrated into the Lady Panthers’ rotation to provide additional depth off the bench this season. has been assimilating into her rotations over the entire predistrict schedule and is continuing that practice now that the league slate has gotten un-

derway – and with very good reason, she said. “We really want to be able to rely on our bench more this season,” said Peterson. “So,

we’re getting people in and making sure they get lots of touches, so regardless of what happens, we’ll have continuity on the court.”

(FAR LEFT) Ashley Price and her teammates used the long road trip to grow closer as a group. (LEFT) Cayden Branch and the Panthers traveled to Corpus Christi for the Islander Splash at the same site where the regional meet will be held. ABBY GLENN PHOTOS

Hitting the road to hit the trails

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Usually, when Liberty Hill’s cross country team hits the road for a race, the Panthers board their bus in the predawn hours and head for their destination only to be back on campus in time to attend the final few periods of school on a Friday afternoon. However, last week proved to be an altogether different proposition, as the Purple-andGold packed suitcases for a trip to Corpus Christi to compete in the Islander Splash,

hosted on the campus of Texas A&M Corpus Christi. The visit required a 10-hour, 490-mile round trip and an overnight stay, but all for good reason, as the regional meet is annually held there, which provides the Panthers with a chance to become familiar with the many aspects of the venue – including one very important factor, said Liberty Hill head coach Kim Holt. “It’s always so muggy and hot down there – steamy,” said Holt, of the weather associated with that part of the state.

“With some kids, the humidity doesn’t affect them, but others it definitely does, so this gives us a chance to experience what it’s like and we also get to run the same course which is used for regionals.” One of the perks of long-distance travel to an event is the luxury coach the Panthers will ride on as opposed to the standard school bus that transports them to other races due to the additional amount of time it will take to arrive. According to junior Ashley Price, she and her teammates

will take the opportunity to grow closer as a unit. “All the girls will be bonding,” said Price. “We’ll be playing games, but we’ll probably also sleep a lot.” In addition to the bus, an eight-passenger van is also deployed, but that vehicle is always commandeered by the varsity boys’ squad, although that still leaves a pair of Panthers who must ride on the bus instead – a selection process that usually comes off without

See RUNNERS, Page 7

Most of the players involved in the integration are back-row players who can be plugged and played at various times throughout matches without

disrupting the rhythm of the front row, which is a critical part of the process, said Peterson. “It’s not like we’re taking (senior middle blocker) Ailie Hair out of there,” she said. “Most of the positions we’re moving people into are spots where we need them.” For example, Walton has been recently pressed into service at middle back, as opposed to her customary station on either the left or right side of the back row. “In the middle, you have to handle the deep balls,” said Walton. “It’s a position I haven’t played too often.” According to Peterson, Walton must act akin to a middle linebacker or center fielder as far as marshaling what goes on around her and keeping it all working in harmony. “A middle back has different responsibilities and a different role or job,” said Peterson. “Like in football, when you have a particular blocking assignment, but that might change based on what happens. So far, Keegan’s doing a really good job there.” Walton said after being

See VOLLEYBALL, Page 8

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Tyler Williams has formed a partnership on the tennis court with baseball teammate Will Snell as a doubles team.

Panthers pitcher uses arm on tennis court

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Tyler Williams normally grips a ball for the Panthers, he’s standing atop a mound and the spheroid in his right hand features seams and is made of cowhide. However, that’s in the spring when the Liberty Hill senior is a member of the baseball team. In the fall, the ball he holds is a fuzzy, felt-covered rubber orb that he tosses into the air with his left hand before letting a serve rip on the tennis court. According to Williams, there is similarity between the two athletic acts. “It was really easy for me to

learn how to move my arm to serve because it’s similar to delivering a pitch,” said Williams, who only picked up the game last year at the behest of baseball and tennis teammate and fellow senior Will Snell. “Also, learning how to hit groundstrokes is kind of like fielding ground balls.” Williams said he enjoys the relatively laid-back atmosphere of tennis as opposed to the intensity of baseball. “Here I don’t feel like I have any pressure,” he said. “I can just have fun, not be stressed and keep a good mentality.” Just so happens the baseball

See PITCHER, Page 9

Switching sides of the ball Panthers nose tackle turns fullback

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Drake Torno (#44) has added fullback to his duties as the Panthers’ nose tackle and has been effective on both sides of the ball.

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Drake Torno crossed the goal line in the fourth quarter of Liberty Hill’s home game against LBJ last Thursday, the occasion marked the first time he had ever scored a touchdown at the high school level. Normally, Torno finds himself stationed on the opposite side of the line of scrimmage as the Panthers’ nose tackle, but on this night was pressed into double-duty and responded with nine carries for 49 yards to go with the score and oh, by the way, picked up a pair of tackles on defense. However, despite the fact he’s relatively inexperienced in rushing on the gridiron, Torno is far from unfamiliar with carrying a ball while being chased. Torno – who transferred to Liberty Hill from Vandegrift last spring – has played rugby for the past four years, in addition to wrestling for the Vipers and only just returned to football after a two-year hiatus due to a disillusionment he had at his old school because of a couple of different factors, he said. “I always got overlooked when I was there because of

my size,” said Torno, of his 5-foot-6, 190-pound frame. “Also, there was always a circus around their star players, as far as college recruitment went – there was really no aspect of team and family. I never got anything out of it.” So, after playing his ninthgrade season on one of three freshman squads at Vandegrift – a Class 6A school – Torno left his helmet and shoulder pads behind in order to pursue his other athletic endeavors – until this year, that is, after he and his family made the move north when they came to a realization, he said. “We were ready for a change,” said Torno. “We knew moving to Liberty Hill would be better for our family and it’s the best thing we’ve ever done.” Torno said the experience of being part of the Panthers’ program is like night and day compared to his time at Vandegrift. “Being here is like nothing I’ve ever experienced,” he said. “It’s crazy to see how caring and accepting everyone here was of me and how tightknit the team is.” As far as his running exploits go, Torno has practiced all season on the offensive side and got some carries in the Pan-

thers’ preseason scrimmage with Hays, but the LBJ game marked his first live action out of the backfield – a place he’s already made himself quite at home in – mostly due to the physical nature of the position. “As a fullback, it’s all about hard running and power,” said Torno. “You just run up the middle and punch somebody in the face.” Liberty Hill head coach Kent Walker said Torno immediately endeared himself to teammates and coaches alike with his voracious work rate. “When Drake got here, it was pretty eye-opening,” he said. “There aren’t many kids who come into our program and immediately buy into what we do here – especially in the weight room and in our offseason conditioning.” All of a sudden, Torno realized his smaller stature was no longer going to be held against him. “Here they like to find diamonds in the rough,” he said. “As long as you go out there and knock people in the teeth, you can have an impact on the team.” When it came time for Walker and his coaches to determine

See TORNO, Page 8

Dropping off in competition level

Page 6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Panthers open district schedule this week against Crockett

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Technically, Liberty Hill’s matchup against Crockett at Burger Stadium in Austin on Friday will be a step up in class from their last opponent – Class 4A LBJ – as the Cougars are residents of Class 5A. However, the reality of the situation is Crockett is a team that has been outscored by a combined margin of 233-28 in four games this season including a 78-7 shellacking at the hands of Smithville last week. Kind of makes the Panthers’ 41-34 home defeat to LBJ pale in comparison. But, that’s the nature of life in District 14, where blowouts are common as the gap in talent is as enormous at the Grand Canyon. Understandably, Liberty Hill head coach Kent Walker and his staff will simply focus on themselves as opposed to the opposition. “We tend to look at ourselves and what we’re doing,” he said. “Our players understand if everyone goes out there and does their job, we’ll be ﬁne.” Crockett has split time between a pair of quarterbacks this season in sophomore Cameron Dickey and senior Michael Newton, with the two combining to go 25-of-77 for 277 yards and no touchdowns to go with ﬁve interceptions. Senior Joshua Early leads the Cougars with 109 yards rushing on 27 carries with a single touchdown, while senior wideout Xavier Chapa has 14 catches for 146 yards on the season. Not exactly eye-popping numbers when one considers Liberty Hill sophomore Noah Long averages more rushing yards per game – 143 – than Crockett’s leading rusher has for the season. Numbers aside, Walker said his team still needs to clean up certain aspects of its game – many of them evident following further review, he said. “We know we made our fair share of mistakes on Thursday

Andon Thomas (#10) leads the Liberty Hill defense with 54 tackles on the season. and didn’t perform as well as we should have,” said Walker. “Watching the ﬁlm just made that more clear and opened my eyes to the fact we have to go back to some basic fundamentals.” The challenge for Walker and his players now that the rugged pre-district schedule is over is to maintain vigilance over their quality of play against weak opposition in contests where the Panthers can afford to play poorly and still win comfortably. “For us now, practice needs to be perfect,” he said. “We’ve focused on that from the beginning, so as long as we feel like we’re getting better.” Against LBJ, senior Drake Torno carried nine times for 49 yards and a touchdown in his ﬁrst offensive action of the season at fullback in addition to his defensive responsibilities as a nose tackle in Liberty Hill’s 3-4 setup, which only

adds only adds another weapon to a crowded backﬁeld that already includes Long, Logan Dyer (42 carries, 203 yards), Joe Pitchford (34-141, 3 TDs) and Grady Flinn (17-178, 1). Walker said the bulk of Torno compliments the speedier Dyer at fullback. “We kind of decided we needed a little thunder-and-lightning back there,” he said. “Drake’s handled it very well in a position he doesn’t know too well and has stepped up and done great.” Long has rushed for 572 yards on 86 carries with seven touchdowns in leading the Liberty Hill offense. Andon Thomas leads the Liberty Hill defense with 54 tackles on the season, while Aaron Brewer (31) and Carlton Schrank (30) round out the top three in stops. Torno leads the Panthers’ sack exchange with four on the season, Lloyd Johnson, Jr. has

nine hurries to lead the squad and also registered his ﬁrst

the senior defensive end, said Walker. “Lloyd has had some really good practices lately,” he said. “Just the constant speed he’s been practicing with and never taking a play off.” Following a three-game stretch during which the Liberty Hill defense allowed only 25 points combined, the Panthers surrendered 41 against LBJ – something Walker attributed to the entire unit failing to stay within themselves. “We need to do a better job of trusting our reads and reactions,” he said. “Also, we need to not try to do too much.” Of course, shutting the Cougars down should be no problem for a Panthers team that won the reverse ﬁxture last season by a score of 76-0, but despite the dropdown in competition level over the course of the next several weeks leading up to the playoffs, Walker said there’s still plenty of enjoyment to be had. “Anytime you get to go out ALEX RUBIO PHOTO and play a football game, it’s fun,” he said. “We don’t really sack of the campaign against focus on our opponent.” LBJ, which has seemed to fuel

Falls Sports Program raises funds for athletics

Sports Editor Scott Akanewich (right) presents a donation from The Liberty Hill Independent to Liberty Hill High School Athletic Director Kent Walker to help support LHHS athletics. The contribution represents a portion of the revenue from advertising sales in the 2021 Fall Sports Program available at all home football games.

R PANTHER GAMES FOR SEPT. 23

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Las Vegas

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Thursday, September 23, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page 7

PANTHER OF THE WEEK Senior tennis player has plenty of opinions

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Ask Emma Neeley for her thoughts on just about anything and you’ll probably get a well-thought-out answer that is the result of critical thinking the likes of which is far beyond the average high school senior – or most other people, for that matter. “My dad always says I’m much wiser than my years,” said Neeley, a member of Liberty Hill’s varsity tennis team. “I’ve been raised with a level head.” Neeley credits parents Kara and Steve for the solid upbringing she and her siblings have received and along with brother Garrett and sister Caitlin, she is one of triplets who were born only minutes apart. “Garrett was born first, then me and then Caitlin,” she said. “We’re all pretty close.” Neeley first picked up a tennis racket in seventh grade when she became disillusioned with the sport she had grown up playing to that point, she said. “I played softball all along, but didn’t like it anymore,” said Neeley, who also cheered competitively earlier on in her athletic life. “I realized it

wasn’t the direction I wanted to go – I just got bored standing in the outfield.” Neeley plays both singles and doubles for the Panthers, but said she would rather play alongside a partner than face opponents alone. “I definitely prefer doubles because I’m a people person,” she said. “In a sport like tennis, you need to be able to get along with people.” Head coach Sherry Rhoden said Neeley brings the kind of personality to the team that is invaluable. “Emma’s always happy, super-funny and quirky and is always making people laugh,” she said. “She’s on our varsity because of her enthusiasm and does things nobody else can.” But, despite the fact she enjoys interaction, Neeley also has another side to her personality, she said. “I can go from being an extrovert to an introvert,” said Neeley. “It depends on the situation I’m in.” For example, when she’s away from the classroom or the court, Neeley likes to read and go on long walks alone while listening to music – with a wide variety of interests in

both. “I like to read true crime and science fiction, but also social science, psychology and political science,” said Neeley. “As far as what I listen to when I’m walking, almost anything – classic rock, classical, old Taylor Swift and anything by The Beatles or The Beach Boys.” As for her interest in older musical acts, Neeley said it’s part and parcel for who she is at the core. “I’m very much an old soul,” she said. “I don’t really know why, but I’ve been raised traditional Christian.” Neeley is hoping to parlay her passion for literature with a career in journalism in order to quench another of her burning desires. “I really want to be an investigative reporter,” she said. “There’s so much happening in the world – socially, politically and economically – I want to be able to get inside and expose some of these things that are really messed up and change something.” Neeley cites one particular period of American history as providing the primary inspiration for her vocational aspirations.

A show for the cameras

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Back w h e n Monday N i g h t Football was a much bigger deal than it is these days, the NFL’s weekly showcase under the lights was a real event. Even pro ballers knew it was special to be the only game being played, as they knew their peers would be watching along with a national television audience. Well, the Panthers’ home contest against LBJ last Thursday – which was broadcast live on Austin outfit KBVO – was the closest we’re ever going to get round these parts to a big-time TV appearance. Barring, of course, a deep run into the state playoffs. More on those prospects later. The very reason we congregated at Panther Stadium on a Thursday evening was due to the presence of the TV cameras – the first time anybody could remember that being the case, as that day of the week is usually reserved for sub-varsity level squads who toil away under the late-afternoon sun in the hopes of one day walking out onto the field 24 hours later. But, last week, it was the big boys who were front and center. Speaking of which, the Jaguars had plenty of those on its roster – you know, one of those “athletic” teams that are spoken about around here with such reverence in comparison with the home squad. So, in essence, what we had on our hands was the old immovable object (LBJ’s bigger players) vs. the irresistible force (Liberty Hill’s Slot-T offense) and the contest certainly didn’t disappoint. As in three touchdowns in-

Runners

side the first three minutes of play when a pair of Jaguars touchdown passes was sandwiched around an 82-yard kickoff return by the Panthers’ Noah Long before the sun had even begun to set in the western sky or the Liberty Hill offense had even run a play from scrimmage. From there, the game settled down a bit before a frantic finish that saw both teams trade turnovers in the waning moments of the fourth quarter before the visitors held on for a 41-34 victory. In the aftermath, Liberty Hill head coach Kent Walker was exasperated with his squad’s performance – which was once again riddled with mistakes on both sides of the ball – after they had seemed to clean up their collective act after the season-opening disaster against Ellison on the same field three weeks earlier with back-to-back victories over Del Valle and Georgetown. Good news for the Purpleand-Gold faithful is despite the sloppy performance – which, by the way, was equally matched by LBJ – the Panthers were in position to pull out a win at the end after all. The Jaguars were far and away the best of the quartet of non-district opponents Walker lined up to test his team and a squad they didn’t get to face last season due to the shortened campaign, which wiped out contests against LBJ and Georgetown. Seeing a team come out with four wide receivers in a spread formation – using a no-huddle offense, no less – would strike fear into the hearts of any defense and the Panthers paid by giving up four scoring passes in the first half. Perhaps times like these are when having an offense that doesn’t throw the ball can hurt a defense who doesn’t have anyone to line up against during practice day in and day

Continued from Page 5

much controversy, said junior Cayden Branch. “On the way there, it’s way too early in the morning to argue,” he said. “Everybody’s still sleepy, so it really doesn’t matter.” Price said there’s bound to be some hi-jinx on board – especially when they find themselves on Interstate 35 and among the seemingly endless convoy of big rigs. “Whenever we pass by an 18-wheeler, we all give the signal for the driver to blow his horn and most times they usually will,” she said. “It’s something (junior) Jack Roth started doing and we all picked up on it.” Of course, there must be rules and those rules must be enforced, which is where Price and senior Emma Hiebner come in, playing the roles of

sheriff and deputy. “I think I’m the good cop and Emma’s the bad cop,” joked Price. “But, really, we all look at Emma as like the team mom – she’s one of the sweetest people I know.” Upon their arrival, the Panthers must bed down for the night with a hotel stay with four to a room, which means there must be a formula to determine roommates, said Holt. “We try to match up people who are friends,” she said. “But, we have good kids who aren’t going to try to sneak out and do anything bad.” So, is there a drill-sergeantlike bed check to make sure everyone is tucked away safe and sound? “Not really,” said Holt. “We recommend they go to sleep by 9:30, but many of them go to sleep even earlier than that.”

out. Then, when the lights go on, all of a sudden, you’re lined up across from a 6-foot-2, 185-pound wideout who can run and jump in a way you can only imagine in your dreams. No knock on the Panthers’ defense, by any means – but, it is what it is. But, most troubling – and perhaps what concerns Walker the most at this point – is the game was so reminiscent of Liberty Hill’s high-scoring shootouts in last year’s playoffs, games in which the Panthers still managed to outscore opponents all the way to the state semifinals. Bad news is, though, we’re not going to find anything further out now for the next two months, as the district schedule begins next week, which means the Panthers can play sloppy football and still win by 40 or 50 points. No, fact of the matter is we won’t really know until the postseason rolls around again – just like last year, so until then the jury is out. A wise, old football man once said you are what your record says you are. Liberty Hill is 2-2, so draw your own conclusions. But, remember this. Would a 4-0 record against the kind of competition the Panthers will see for the next six games be better as opposed to .500 facing rugged opposition? We say no. In fact, sometimes a crushing defeat is exactly what a talented team needs to kick-start it in the right direction again before going on to great things. Was a darned fine game for all the folks at home on their living-room couches to enjoy, though, in our own little version of big-time television.

With four people sleeping in the same room, what about the chance someone’s slumber could be disturbed by a snorer? Branch isn’t worried – under one condition. “As long as I fall asleep first,” he said. “I’m a pretty heavy sleeper.” There’s also the matter of feeding the troops and as pasta is a staple of distance runners’ pre-race meal, a trip to a local favorite is always in the offing, said Holt. “The kids like to go to Olive Garden,” she said. “All the other teams usually go there, too, so instead of a long wait for tables, we do take-out, which works a lot better.” From a competitive standpoint, the Panthers are about to enter the business end of the campaign, with the big end-of-

“The Gilded Age was a period in the late 19th Century, named after a Mark Twain book,” she said. “There was a group called muckrakers who were journalists that exposed all the corruption that was going on back then, which really appeals to me.” However, unlike most of her peers, something that doesn’t appeal to her at all is how people her age are so hooked on technology. “I think that’s the biggest problem with my generation,” said Neeley. “Our social skills aren’t as developed. My grandfather grew up on a farm in the 1930s and didn’t have any of that stuff.” Neeley has an especially dim view of all the various platforms on which people can cause controversy. “Our society is so polarized by social media,” she said. “I stay away from the media on both sides because it’s so biased with people constantly looking for something to validate their truths.” Neeley hopes to attend Texas Tech to pursue her future goals, although she said Lubbock is a little big for her taste and added if there was one

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Emma Neeley has strong opinions on many subjects and plans to pursue a career as an investigative reporter. mystery in the entire universe “I would want to find out why she could uncover, it would be we’re really here,” she said. that of the human condition. “What our purpose is.”

Rowley leads rout of Patriots

Maddi Rowley led Liberty Hill with 10 kills in the Lady Panthers’ dominant 3-0 (2523, 25-15, 25-13) home win over East View. Despite a hard-fought opening set whose momentum swung back-and-forth, the home side was able to dispatch the visitors after overcoming some early complacency, said head coach Gretchen Peterson. “I don’t know if we weren’t ready or not,” she said. “But, I thought we came out flat.” East View held a 10-9 advantage midway through the first set before the Lady Panthers switched on and began to establish themselves after the slow start. Senior Ailie Hair continued her fine run of form in pounding home a pair of kills on back-to-back points as part of a 7-0 Liberty Hill run to give them a 15-10 lead, but the plucky Patriots refused to back down. Even after the Lady Panthers were a point from the set win on a Morgan Poulain winner at 24-20, East View won three straight points before Hair hammered the set-winner. In the second stanza, it was another senior who came to life in outside hitter Rowley, who began to riddle the Patriots’ defense with a variety of finishes in collecting five of her kills on the evening. However, it was Hair who remained the home side’s talisman, as during one midset stretch in which she won five of the Lady Panthers’ six points, including a thundering pair of consecutive aces before later blocking a shot and once again providing the set-winning kill. Hair said the bounceback in the second set was attributed to regaining focus after the shaky first. “In the first set, I think we were a bit too confident,”

she said. “But, after that we played a lot more calm.” In addition to properly channeling their emotions, Hair said it was easier to exploit the Patriots’ weaknesses after observing their play in the first set. “We watched what they were doing, so in the second set we knew what to do,” she said. “It’s really important because you need to see what the other players on the court are doing.” Reese Williams came off the bench at the outset of the third and provided the Lady Panthers with a spark by picking up a pair of kills early on, but Kealy Dirner put her stamp of authority on the proceedings with a hat trick of aces on three consecutive points to give Liberty Hill a 7-0 lead. After Williams’ third kill of the final set, Bailey Becker sandwiched a pair of winners around another from Carson Glenn before Rowley finished

off her evening with three more kills and an ace, followed by another Dirner ace to seal the victory. Emma Parsons had 21 assists and 16 digs, while Haley Kuhlmann added 13 digs in the match to go with six kills for Dirner in addition to three blocks for Rowley and a pair for Becker on the night. Peterson said it’s always good for players like Williams to contribute to the cause. “I wish people could see how hard Reese and all our players work in practice and to see how they battle,” she said. “Which is why you want to give them the opportunity because all of our players love each other so much – so it’s really great to see.” Liberty Hill 3, Glenn 0 The Lady Panthers ran their winning streak to three matches with a 3-0 (25-14, 25-17,

season races looming just on the horizon – a fact not lost on Price. “We’re really focusing on district,” she said, of the Oct. 14 meet hosted by East View, from which the top three squads move on to regionals. “You work so hard all season, you want to advance.” Price said one aspect of her game she needs to work on is the ability to finish stronger. “I need to be able to run the last mile faster,” she said. “At the start, everybody always takes off so fast – if you try to keep up, you can get burned out.” One of the Panthers’ greatest strengths on the trails – for both the girls’ and boys’ squads – is their ability to run together in packs during races, which only makes everyone faster, said Price.

“For example, a lot of times it’ll be me, Emma (Hiebner), Ella (Egizio) and Eimilie (Taylor) who will be together,” she said. “We’ll offer encouragement to each other and we can also pace off one another. When you’re running alone, it’s a lot easier to get into negative thoughts.” However, unlike on the girls’ side, where there is a clear No. 1 runner in freshman Avery Frank, the boys are more of a committee when it comes to who might be top gun on a particular week, which only spurs them on, said Branch. “We’re always talking to each other about who’s going to be No. 1 in the next race,” he said. “I think that really drives us because it makes people step up, which improves our team score.” Branch said that mentality

will be necessary to compete for a district title. “We lost to Georgetown at our home meet, which was disappointing to everybody,” he said. “We plan on running better at district, but we know we’re going to have to work hard to beat teams like Georgetown, Leander and Cedar Park.” One last item of business to handle during the trip to Corpus Christi is whether or not the entire team will take a group plunge into the Gulf of Mexico – a tradition that has been upheld in recent years – but only if the runners can convince their coaches to let them, said Price. “(Teammate) Avery Holland and I are trying to get Coach Holt to let us,” she said. “So, we’ll have to see.”

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Carson Glenn (#16) led Liberty Hill with 20 assists in her first varsity start in the Lady Panthers’ 3-0 (25-14, 25-17, 25-16) away victory over Glenn.

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his status as a starter, Torno made the grade and so far this season he hasn’t disappointed. Against Del Valle, Torno racked up four sacks and three hurries to go with ﬁve tackles in the Panthers’ 62-6 home victory over the Cardinals and all that was before he even got his hands on the ball, making him a solid, two-way threat from here on out, said Walker. “Drake’s deﬁnitely going to keep getting carries,” he said. “He’ll probably play about half of the snaps on offense and defense, so we get him a rest.” Torno was also new to the nose tackle position this season, having played center in

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his freshman year, but the same things that make him so effective running the ball also make him a rugged defender, said Walker. “He has a very low center of gravity,” he said. “So, he’s able to stay low on people.” Torno revels in physicality, but said all things considered, he gets a lot more banged up while wearing the armor of a football player compared to the absence of pads in rugby. “Helmets and pads are the worst things,” said Torno. “Because most players like to lead with their head, but in rugby, it’s all about proper technique. I know I’ve never come off a rugby ﬁeld as angry

accustomed to being a starter, she’s now had to adjust to her new role of coming off the bench to provide an instant spark – although that’s sometimes more difﬁcult than it may seem, she said. “Your nerves can get to you when you’re out there,” said Walton. “Sometimes, it might take a few points to get into the ﬂow of the game, but usually I can step right in and perform.” Perhaps the primary example of Peterson’s philosophy of

preparing players in this manner was during the Leander match, when sophomore Kylie Hutchinson was subbed into the action in the second set of a hotly-contested contest and was expected to produce upon her arrival. However, Hutchinson muffed the first serve she received, then had difficulty with a second before finally properly handling a third as the Lions were determined to keep testing her until she proved she

Wastewater Treatment facilities to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as well as all Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements for sampling and testing concerning to the City’s wastewater. The wastewater samples will be collected by the City. All samples will be picked up at an agreed upon time at one of the various City’s Wastewater Treatment Facilities. The City will require provision of environmentally suitable sample bottles and transport containers for samples to be placed in. The wastewater laboratory services (“Services”) will be ordered on an as needed basis to supplement the City’s internal laboratory capabilities. Bidders are required to review Plant permits (Exhibits 2A through 2E) to ensure there is a clear understanding of the Plant’s requirements. It is the City’s intention that the Services be awarded in total to one (1) vendor, however, the City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids, to accept any bid deemed advantageous and to waive irregularity in the bids. Schedule of Event It is the City’s intention to observe the following solicitation timeline: Event Date Solicitation Release 09/16/21 Deadline for submission of questions 09/22/21, 5:00 PM, CST City responses to questions or addendums 09/17/21, 5:00 PM, CST Deadline for submission of bid 09/30/21, 2:00 PM, CST Estimated Contract Start Date 10/01/21 The City reserves the right to modify these dates. Discussion with Bidders All questions submitted or discussions with bidders during the bid process must be through the City of Liberty Hill Public Works Department. City of Liberty Hill – City Hall PO Box 1920, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 Attn.: Lindsey Sherrill Public Works Admin. Phone: 512-778-5449 E-Mail: lsherrill@libertyhilltx.gov Bidders’ contact with employees or officials of the City other than the above-mentioned Public Works staff member regarding this Bid may result in disqualification from this procurement process. Any oral communications are considered unofficial and non-bind-

ing with regard to this Bid; all communication shall be in writing (e-mail preferred). (9/23)

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PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF PETITION REQUESTING WATER AND SANITARY SEWER SERVICES FROM THE CITY OF LIBERTY HILL NOTICE This is to give notice of intent to ﬁle a Petition with the City of Liberty Hill requesting water and sanitary sewer service to the property described below: BEING ALL OF THAT CERTAIN 223.942 ACRE TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND OUT OF THE HENRY FIELDS SURVEY, ABSTRACT NUMBER 233, THE JOHN INGRAM SURVEY, ABSTRACT NUMBER 335, AND THE JOSEPH M. GLASSCOCK SURVEY, ABSTRACT NUMBER 254, SITUATED IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TEXAS, SAID TRACT OF LAND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS BEING ALL OF THE REMAINDER OF A CALLED 99.57 ACRE TRACT OF LAND (TRACT NO. 2) DESCRIBED IN DOCUMENT NUMBER 199961486 OF THE OFFICIAL PUBLIC RECORDS OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TEXAS (O.P.R.W.C.TX.), AND CONVEYED TO JSB HOLDINGS, LTD., IN DOCUMENT NUMBER 2002103000 (O.P.R.W.C.TX.), ALL OF A CALLED 126.90 ACRE TRACT OF LAND (TRACT

NO. 1) DESCRIBED IN DOCUMENT NUMBER 199961485 (O.P.R.W.C.TX.) AND CONVEYED TO JSB HOLDINGS, LTD., IN SAID DOCUMENT NUMBER 2002103000 (O.P.R.W.C.TX.), AND ALL OF CALLED 7.957 ACRE TRACT OF LAND CONVEYED TO JSB HOLDINGS, LTD., DESCRIBED IN DOCUMENT NUMBER 2014076250 (O.P.R.W.C.TX.) (9/23) LIBERTY HILL ISD is seeking Proposals for Construction Mgr. at Risk - Elem. #6. All interested proposers please see RFP #22-001 available at www.libertyhill.txed.net click Departments - Business Office - Purchasing - Current Bid Opportunities Or request a copy by emailing: proposals@libertyhill.txed.net. (9/23) LIBERTY HILL ISD is seeking Proposals for Construction Mgr. at Risk - LHMS Renovations and Additions. All interested proposers please see RFP #22-002 available at www.libertyhill.txed.net click Departments - Business Office - Purchasing - Current Bid Opportunities Or request a copy by emailing: proposals@libertyhill.txed.net. (9/23) LIBERTY HILL ISD is seeking Proposals for Construction Mgr. at Risk - Middle School #3. All interested proposers please see RFP #22-003 available at www.libertyhill. txed.net click Departments Business Office - Purchasing Current Bid Opportunities Or request a copy by emailing: proposals@libertyhill.txed. net. (9/23) INVITATION TO BID SOLICITATION NUMBER: 0921-001 Wastewater Laboratory Services for the City of Liberty Hill, Texas BID OPENING DATE: October 1, 2021, 2:00 PM, CENTRAL STANDARD TIME The City of Liberty Hill, Texas (“City”) is seeking bids from laboratories approved or accredited by the State of Texas under the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) to perform all necessary services in connection with analyzing and reporting on samples from the City’s

and banged up as I have sometimes in football. During my freshman year, I broke three ﬁngers, but I’ve never hand anything more than bumps and bruises from rugby.” So, rugby provides a different kind of rough-and-tumble from football, but there’s also one other big difference between the games, he said. “In rugby, there’s always constant motion, so from that standpoint, it’s easier to play,” said Torno. “But, in football, you have the breaks in between plays.” So, with his newfound prowess carrying a football as opposed to stopping others who are doing so, would he rath-

Continued from Page 5

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INVITATION TO BID SOLICITATION NUMBER: 0921-002 Sludge Hauling Services for the City of Liberty Hill, Texas BID OPENING DATE: October 1, 2021, 2:00 PM, CENTRAL STANDARD TIME The City of Liberty Hill, Texas (“City”) is seeking bids for sludge hauling services to include pumping sludge, transporting sludge and transporting biosolids for disposal from the Liberty Hill waste-water treatment plant and collection system. And this will include special services as needed for instance hydro excavation. The city will require Successful Respondent(s) to provide environmentally acceptable storage containers for biosolids to be placed on city site for ﬁlling by City staff. The sludge pumping, sludge and biosolids transportation and biosolids disposal services (“Services”) will be ordered on an as needed basis or regular scheduled intervals. Schedule of Events It is the City’s intention to observe the following solicitation timeline: Event Date Solicitation Released September 16, 2021 Deadline for submission of questions September 22, 2021, 5:00 PM, CST City responses to questions or addendums September 24, 2021, 5:00 PM, CST Deadline for submission of bids September 30, 2021, 2:00 PM, CST Estimated Contract Start Date October 1, 2021 The City reserves the right to modify these dates. Discussion with Bidders All questions submitted or discussions with bidders during the bid process must be through the City of Liberty Hill Public Works Department. City of Liberty Hill – Public Works, PO Box 1920, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 Attn.: Lindsey Sherrill Public Works Admin. Phone: 512-778-5449 E-Mail: lsherrill@libertyhilltx.gov Bidders’ contact with employees or ofﬁcials of the City

could step up to the plate in that situation – which is exactly what Peterson wants to see from her underclassmen, she said. “Kylie has to be challenged,” said Peterson. “Varsity volleyball is a different game and young players are going to make mistakes. But, if we’re going to develop athletes, we need to give them grace and be willing to give them the time they need to get better instead of pulling them out of there right away. Perseverance is a big thing for these players and it’s an awesome thing as a team when we can do it.” Other Lady Panthers proteges include Macy Land, Morgan Poulain, Olivia Hodges, Carson Glenn, Gigi Mason, Brooklyn Escobar and Kealy Dirner, who have already played extensive roles this season. Dirner, in particular, has stepped up in the absence of the injured Emma Becker at the outside hitter position in doing her part to help ﬁll the void of the Lady Panthers’ se-

er record a sack or score six points? “Definitely a touchdown,” he said. “To just take a handoff, break a big run and cause some destruction.” Torno originally hails from the east Texas town of Buffalo, but has lived in the Austin area since the second grade before he and his family finally found a new home this past year – and it’s one Torno wishes he could’ve been a part of much sooner, he said. “Definitely, I would’ve liked to be here from the start,” he said. “The people are so nice and welcoming.”

nior leader, who is out for the season after ankle surgery. Escobar – the only freshman on the roster – has impressed Peterson with her seamless transition to high school volleyball. “Brooklyn is super-strong, really athletic and is going to do great things for us,” said Peterson. “She’s a real go-getter and already has a maturity on the court beyond her years.” So much the better for a Liberty Hill squad that seems to reload year after year when accomplished players graduate only for their places to be ﬁlled with the latest upcoming talent – but the only way for rookies to be forged into veterans is to throw them into the ﬁre – something Peterson is more than happy to do. “We have so many young players who are only freshmen and sophomores who can make an impact,” she said. “They all work so hard, so we want to reward them for what they do in practice.”

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NEWS@LHINDEPENDENT.COM other than the above-mentioned staff member regarding this Bid may result in disqualification from this procurement process. Any oral communications are considered unofficial and non-binding with regard to this Bid; all communication shall be in writing (e-mail preferred). (9/23) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR Water and Waste-Water Treatment Chemicals Notice to Proposers: The City of Liberty Hill (the “City”) is soliciting proposals for Request for Proposal (“RFP”) for chemicals to support the City’s water and waste-water treatment facilities. The City will require Four (4) printed copies (one original plus three copies) and an electronic copy (CD, DVD or thumb drive) of the entire proposal must be sealed and returned to the City of Liberty Hill, Attention: Public Works Director, P. O. Box 1920, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 (mailing address) or 926 Loop 332 Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 (physical address) by 2:00 p.m., Central Standard Time, September 30, 2021. All responses must be plainly marked with the proposal name and RFP number: “City of Liberty Hill Water and Waste-water Treatment Chemicals”. Proposer is responsible for delivery of response by the due date and time set. Responses received after the due date and time will not be considered. The information contained in these specifications is confidential and is to be used only in connection with preparing this proposal. The City of Liberty Hill reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive informalities in proposals received. All questions concerning this RFP must be addressed to the following point of contact: Lindsey Sherrill Public Works Admin. 926 Loop 332. Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 Office: (512) 778-5449

(512) 778-5577

Email: lsherrill@libertyhilltx. gov All contact with the City shall be through the individual named above. Proposers shall not attempt to contact the City staff or management directly during the pre-proposal or post proposal period. Proposers’ contact with employees or officials of the City other than the Public Works Director regarding this RFP may result in disqualification from this procurement process. Any oral communications are considered unofficial and non-binding with regard to this RFP. (9/23) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS JOERIS GENERAL CONTRACTORS, LTD. Joeris General Contractors will be accepting competitive Proposals Suppliers for the: Liberty Hill ISD - Hill ES and Noble ES steel decking, until 2:00PM on Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2021. Proposals will be received by email at bidsAustin@joeris.com or by fax. Project Description: This GMP1 includes all steel decking, including roofs and floors for both Elementary School’s, the Hill and Noble. Plans may be reviewed at: For plans contact Ancle Davis at adavis@joeris.com. Participation by S/M/W/DBE firms & Certified HUB firms is encouraged. Joeris General Contractors is an equal opportunity (EEO) employer. (9/23) 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. (9/30)

Thursday, September 23, 2021

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CROSS COUNTRY BRIEFS Panthers boys second at Corpus Christi event

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Liberty Hill’s boys’ cross country squad ﬁnished second in a ﬁeld of 36 teams at the Islander Splash, hosted by Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

Liberty Hill’s boys’ cross country squad finished second in a field of 36 teams from across all of central and south Texas at the Islander Splash, hosted by Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The Panthers racked up 102 points, which put them behind only winners Round Rock, who posted 95 for the meet. On the individual side, senior Jacob Russell finished 13th in a field of 263 runners in a time of 18:00.00 to claim the No. 1 Panthers points-scoring position just in front of teammate Caden Glenn, who crossed the line 14th in 18:02.45. Ryan McCarn was 22nd in 18:13.45, Cayden Branch 28th in 18:23.95 and Brandon Esco-

TENNIS BRIEFS Panthers outlast Cedar Park

Liberty Hill’s tennis team traveled to Cedar Park for an away match and came home with an 11-8 win to improve to 5-1 in district play this season. In girls’ singles, No. 1 India Young won 6-1, 6-0, No. 2 Ellis Young won 6-0, 6-0, No. 3 Sophie Sherman won 6-1, 6-0, No. 4 Jennifer Merrill won 6-1, 6-1, No. 5 Ella Bodnar won 6-1, 6-3 and No. 6 Peyton Buckley won 6-1, 6-0. In boys’ singles, No. 1 Patrick Fay lost 5-7, 4-6, No. 2 Ethan Wukasch lost 0-6, 1-6, No. 3 Colin Garner lost, No. 4 Will Gray lost 4-6, 6-7, No. 5 Michael Evans lost 0-6, 0-6 and No. 6 Cash Terry lost 0-6, 0-6. In girls’ doubles, No. 1 Ellis Young/India Young won 6-0, 6-1, No. 2 Merrill/Buckley won 6-2, 6-2 and No. 3 Ava Ortega/Eliza Homorodi won 4-6, 6-0 (10-6). In boys’ doubles, No. 1 Fay/ Wukasch lost in two sets, No. 2 Gray/Garner lost 2-6, 6-3 (410), No. 3 Tyler Williams/Will Snell lost 3-6, 3-6. In mixed doubles, No. 1 Sherman/Evans won 6-0, 6-1. Defeat to Georgetown The Panthers lost a home match to Georgetown by a score of 17-2, with senior Ellis Young and sophomore sister

PITCHER

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

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teammates are also paired up on the same doubles duo for the Panthers – a tactical move for logistical purposes, said head coach Sherry Rhoden. “This way, when I lose them both to baseball in the spring, it won’t affect any of my other doubles teams,” she said. “But, Tyler and Will also already have a level of comfort with each other.” As a mound man on the diamond, Williams is vigilant in keeping good care of his arm, but recently suffered a lower-body injury which hampered him instead. “I tore my hamstring playing baseball over the summer sliding into third base,” he said. “It was supposed to keep me out for eight weeks, but after ﬁve I came back to tennis to help get back into shape.” Williams also enjoys the coed nature tennis offers as a

mixed-gender sport, he said. “It’s fun to have that mixed diversity as a team,” said Williams. “Seeing all the different kinds of players we have.” Of course, Williams must tone down his baseball swing a bit when he takes aim at a tennis ball – as hitting one over the fence is cheered in his primary sport, but not so much in his new one. “There have been many occasions when I’ve hit a tennis ball over the fence,” he said. “I have to get my baseball swing out of there.” Rhoden added having athletes from other sports cross over to the court gives them an advantage from a physiological standpoint. “I’ve found when I get players from other sports, they already know how to move their body,” she said. “So, they have the fundamentals and move-

mates Eimilie Taylor (56th, 23:07.35), Avery Holland (64th, 23:12.26), Ella Egizio (75th, 23:27.11) and Sofia Fernandez (124th, 24:33.92) rounded out the top five for the Purple-and-Gold. Frank has been the top Lady Panthers finisher in each of the first five races of the season. Other Liberty Hill finishers included Nanci Sanchez (138th, 24:36.98), senior Payton Stephenson (129th, 24:37.39), Ashley Price (130th, 24:40.25) and senior Emma Hiebner (142nd, 24:58.67). Madison Sutterfield of Corpus Christi Flower Bluff won the race in 19:29.17. Liberty Hill will next compete at the McNeil Invitational at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock on Sept. 25.

VOLLEYBALL

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Patrick Fay and the Liberty Hill tennis team split a pair of district matches in losing to Georgetown and defeating Cedar Park. India Young accounting for both of the Panthers’ victories. In girls’ singles, No. 1 India Young won 5-7, 7-6 (7-4), (101), No. 2. Ellis Young lost 1-6, 3-6, No. 3 Sherman lost 1-6, 7-5, (3-10), No. 4 Merrill lost 1-6, 0-6, No. 5 Bodnar lost 4-4 (3-7), 2-4. and No. 6 Buckley lost 4-4 (9-11),4-1 (9-11). In boys’ singles, No. 1 Fay

bar 30th in 18:25.44 to round out the top five for Liberty Hill. Other Panthers finishers included senior Greg Miller (32nd, 18:29.20), Nicholas Hogge (49th, 18:58.68), Brandon Colicher (63rd, 19:23.64), Chat Luna (76th, 19:41.55) and Jack Roth (85th, 19:50.52). Liberty Hill was the only team to have five runners finish in the top 30 of the race, which was won by Jackson Lovvron of Corpus Christi King in 17:13.93. On the girls’ side, the Lady Panthers finished seventh in a field of 34 teams with 287 points, while San Antonio East Central, who scored 123, won the event. Avery Frank was the top Liberty Hill runner in sixth at 20:50.67 in a race which featured 259 athletes, while team-

lost 1-6, 3-6, No. 2 Wukasch lost 3-6, 2-6, No. 3 Garner lost 3-6, 4-6, No. 4 Gray lost 1-6, 2-6, No. 5 Evans lost 2-4, 2-4 and No. 6 Terry lost 1-4, 4-4 (5-7). In girls’ doubles, No. 1 E. Young/I. Young won 6-4, 6-4, No. 2 Merrill/Buckley lost 0-6, 2-6 and No. 3 Homorodi/Ortega lost 2-6, 3-6.

In boys’ doubles, No. 1 Fay/ Wukasch lost 6-7 (1-7), 1-6, No. 2 Garner/Gray lost 6-4, 3-6, (4-10), No. 3 Snell/Williams lost 3-6, 2-6 and No. 4 Josh Allaire/Holt Avery lost 3-8. In mixed doubles, No. 1 Sherman/Evans lost 0-6, 6-7 (2-7).

ments down.” Williams said although his competitive tennis career may come to an end following graduation in the spring, his newfound pursuit is one he intends to continue indeﬁnitely. “Oh, yeah, I deﬁnitely plan to keep playing,” he said. “I’ve even gotten my parents and grandparents to play – it’s a really easy sport for everyone to just get out and have fun.”

As for if he would prefer to get a win on the mound or a match victory on the court, Williams said he still has to go with the former, due to the context each comes in. “Getting a win in baseball makes me happier because the entire team is counting on me to come through,” he said. “In team tennis, you need to win 10 matches, so I have teammates who can pick me up.”

25-16) away win over Glenn, as Rowley led Liberty Hill with 13 kills, while Hair added eight in the victory. Liberty Hill led by as many as ﬁve points midway through the opening set on the strength of a pair of kills and a block by Rowley before Hair added back-to-back winners and Dirner also pounded home a pair of kills. Poulain began the second set with a kill, then Rowley continued her torrid pace with a pair as the visitors built a lead they would fail to relinquish as Parsons then collected a kill and an ace to help close out the set. Williams came off the bench in the third set and hammered three kills, along with another from Kylie Hutchinson, while Rowley picked up four more in the set and after Dirner hit consecutive winners late in the stanza, Poulain powered the match-winner. However, following a relatively easy opening set for the Lady Panthers, the intensity level seemed to drop a bit, which is something which needs to be addressed, said Peterson. “I think the challenge for us is how do we keep the edge after we get up in a match,” she said. “Sometimes we struggle a bit when we try to get away with things, which we can’t do against the better teams. We expect to do the right things at the right times.” Liberty Hill missed nine serves on the evening, which Peterson knows must be cleaned up as they progress through the league campaign in order to have success.

“Those are the kind of mental errors we can’t afford,” she said. “They come back to haunt you.” Dirner continued to excel in her left outside hitter position, as her play has steadily improved from when the sophomore initially took over for the injured Emma Becker, who is out for the season. “I’m more conﬁdent now than at the beginning and I’m not as nervous,” said Dirner. “I don’t have to think as much out there.” Glenn collected a squad-leading 20 assists, while Parsons added 11 and eight digs to go with 19 for Kuhlmann on the night. Peterson singled out Glenn for particular praise. “For Carson, it was her ﬁrst varsity start, which is a lot to put on her to run the offense,” she said. “But, we’re going to really need her leadership next season.” The Lady Panthers’ bench continues to play a critical role, said Peterson. “We have players like Kylie (Hutchinson) and Macy (Land) who don’t get as much playing time, but they’re excited when they do,” she said. “All of our bench players have done well and exactly what we’ve asked of them – it’s a blessing to have players like them.” Brooklyn Escobar served a pair of aces, with Keegan Walton adding another, as Rowley blocked two shots and Becker one in the win. Liberty Hill (29-8, 3-1) will next host Georgetown Sept. 24, then travel to Cedar Park Sept. 28.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

HOMES AROUND THE HILL Sunset Oaks - 3 acres Home + In-Law House, No HOA - 10 acres Kempner Ranch - 40 acres 2 Homes/Guest House - 4.95 acres Liberty Hill - 76 acres Little Gabriel River Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Florence Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Florence Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Bertram - 10 acres Durham Park Silver Creek Ranch - 2 acres Mesa Vista Ranch Carriage Oaks - 1 acre Highland Lake Estates - Lago Vista Hornsby, J - 4.6 acres Durham Park Liberty Hill - 17 acres Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Luciano Cabasos Buttercup Townhomes Flores Hillcrest Forest Creek Cantarra Meadows/Pﬂugerville Palmera Ridge - Leander Palmera Ridge - Leander Llano Iron Oak - 2 acres Summerlynn - Leander Near Downtown Liberty Hill University Park - Georgetown Spring Meadows - 2 Homes Saratoga Springs Somerset Ranch San Gabriel River - 3/4 acres Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Liberty Hill - 2.2 acres

Homes for Sale

631 CR 269 2150 CR 282 820 Panther Creek 1601 CR 256 4060 CR 201

3BR/3BA 2BR/3BA + 3BR/1BA - Pool 6BR/5BA 4BR/4BA 3BR/2B - Barndominium & Shop Acreage / Lots / Property for Sale 420 Iva Bell Lane Barn TBD Lobella Bloom Bend Lot 91, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 71, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 74, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 75, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 79, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 83, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 85, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 87, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 89, Block 1 Phase III Tract 3A N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 72, 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 Tract 4B N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt Lot 12 Cloudwood Ranch Rd Lots of trees 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 CR 321 500 CR 288 644 Silver Creek Dr TBD Yellow Senna Pl 105 Cavalier Lane 20701 Harrison Cv 1840 CR 226 550 Shin Oak Lane 17600 W State Hwy 29 TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Red Yucca Ct TBD Red Yucca Ct 1540 W Hwy 29 401 Buttercup Creek Blvd 550 Stadium Dr

120 Crestview Dr 2237 Shark Loop 13500 Kearns Dr 2201 Bonavista Way 2200 Bonavista Way 504 E Green St 232 Oak Hill 104 Falcon Lane 3103 CR 1869 2006 E 18th St 440 CR 277 402 Spring Grove 1105 Somerset Meadow 121 River Rd Lot 22 Cloudwood Ranch Rd 140 Shin Oak Lane

River front & trees Trees, electric, water 3BR/2BA - Pool Lot 80, Block 1 Phase III 4BR/4BA Electricity & water available 4BR/2BA Wet weather creek 3 Homes & Barn Lot 92, Block 1 Phase III Lot 70, Block 1 Phase III Lot 77, Block 1 Phase III Lot 78, Block 1 Phase III Lot 81, Block 1 Phase III Lot 82, Block 1 Phase III Lot 84, Block 1 Phase III Lot 90, Block 1 Phase III 2BR/1BA 2BR/2.5BA Cleared & level Sold!

3BR/2BA 4BR/2.5BA 4BR/2BA - Game Room 3BR/2BA - 2 car garage 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/4BA 4BR/2.5BA - 2 car garage Commercial, Mixed Use 3BR/2BA 5BR/3.5BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/3.5BA 3BR/2BA Lots of oaks, backs to creek 3BR/2BA + pool

2984 sq ft 3353 total sq ft 4483 sq ft 3112 sq ft 1624 sq ft

Shane T. White Sabrina Jordan Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Tammy Wise

$1,200,000 $ 201,000 $ 203,000 $ 212,000 $ 275,000 $ 229,000 $ 201,000 $ 285,000 $ 404,000 $ 202,000 $ 338,168 $ 219,000 $ 210,000 $ 418,000 $ 248,000 $ 564,300 $ 255,000

20 acres 2.01 acres 2.03 acres 2.12 acres 2.75 acres 2.29 acres 2.01 acres 2.85 acres 4.04 acres 2.02 acres 11.3 acres 2.19 acres 2.10 acres 4.18 acres 2.48 acres 20.9 acres 7.74 acres

Amy Gandy Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Dax Oglesby Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Dax Oglesby Cheryl Stephens

$ $ $ $ $ $

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

Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White

$ 425,000 10 acres

Shane T. White

$ 699,000 2306 sq ft

Amy Gandy

$ 225,000 2.19 acres $ 201,000 2.01 acres $ 560,000 2453 sq ft $

SUBSCRIBE 512.778.5577

Sabrina Jordan REALTOR®

$ 500,000 $ 970,000 $1,200,000 $ 995,000 $1,999,000

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

Thursday, September 23, 2021

512.680.0375 cell sabrinajordan.kwrealty.com RESIDENTIAL, LAND, FARM & RANCH HOMETOWN ROOTS HOMETOWN VALUES

SELLING L LIBERTY HIL FOR 40 YEARS!

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME?

Shane T. White Tammy Wise

Amy Gandy Dax Oglesby 2432 sq ft Shane T. White 2 acres Amy Gandy 1800 sq ft Tammy Wise 2.07 acres Tammy Wise 2.03 acres Tammy Wise 2.37 acres Tammy Wise 2.17 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.04 acres Tammy Wise 1180 sq ft Shane T. White 1280 sq ft Shane T. White 1.337 acre Side-Pad Shane T. White

60,000 .394 acres

$ 379,000 $ 175,000

$1,600,000 $ 207,000 $ 203,000 $ 237,000 $ 217,000 $ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 204,000 $ 250,000 $ 275,000 $ 750,000

$ 235,000 1568 sq ft

Shane T. White

$ 420,000 2507 sq ft

Cheryl Stephens

$ 538,000 2627 sq ft

$ 430,000 1855 sq ft $ 510,000 2100 sq ft

$ 200,000 1671 sq ft $ 765,000 2800 sq ft $ 350,000 2044 sq ft $ 350,000 968 sq ft

$ 315,000 1404 sq ft $ 429,250 2950 sq ft $ 225,000 1704 sq ft $ 800,000 2739 sq ft $ 230,000 1440 sq ft

$ 197,500 4.25 acres $ 430,000 1611 sq ft

RE/MAX Town & Country 13561 W. Hwy 29, Liberty Hill shanetwhite@remax.net www.ShaneTWhiteTeam.com

512.515.5263

Shane T. White Amy Gandy Amy Gandy

Sabrina Jordan Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby

Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White

Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Dax Oglesby

LIBERTY HILL’S REAL ESTATE GUIDE Feature your property listings weekly! (512) 778-5577

San Gabriel

Real Life. Real People. Real Estate.

Realt y Gr oup

Serving Williamson, Burnet and Travis Counties Residential • Farm and Ranch Minerals • Land and Leasing

Is NOW the time to sell your home? Call us ... We know the answer! Kristen Childers REALTOR®

REALTOR®

(512) 501 501-0777

Dax Oglesby

Team Realty of Texas | REALTOR®

AustinAndHillCountryRealEstate.com

(512) 635-7529

www.DaxSellsTexas.com daxoglesbysgrhomes@gmail.com

900 Quest Parkway Cedar Park, TX 78613

Love thy neighbor!

“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.”

Adrienne Hughes

Cheryl Stephens

512-810-0185

512-417-0026

Broker/Owner

Tammy Wise

Realtor ®, GRI, MRP

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

From Waco to New Braunfels, Llano to LaGrange and everywhere in between.

Amy Gandy, Broker/Owner | MCNE, CLHMS 512-589-9005 | amy@agandyandco.com www.agandyandco.com