LHIndependent 1-16-2020

2020

Volume 33, Issue 8

www.LHIndependent.com

Council moves closer to approving fee hikes

By MIKE EDDLEMAN and just under $76 million Managing Editor in wastewater infrastructure The long-scheduled public improvements. hearing on proposed impact Projections show the annual fee increases came and went growth rate in water customMonday without community ers is 10.2 percent, reaching input as the City Council got its 1,958 connections by 2028, first look in a public meeting at while wastewater service potential rate hikes that would is expected to expand from take effect Feb. 1.

4,413 customers currently to The Council is set to vote 13,089 by 2028. on the proposed increases at Projects include the current its next meeting Jan. 27. If it and another future expansupports the proposals, the sion of the current wastewawastewater impact fee would ter plant, as well as a new increase to $4,000. The water Northfork Wastewater Plant. impact fee would increase to On the wastewater side there $5,500 Feb. 1, with subsequent are a number of lift station hikes on Jan. 1 of the next two improvements and capacity years to $6,500 in 2021 and upgrades planned. $7,037 in 2022, the maximum On the water side there are allowed for the City. many capacity upgrades for These are fees new customers increased population as well pay when initially establishing as fire suppression, but the water or wastewater service to high-dollar items include a property with the City. a drinking water reservoir, Currently the water service raw water intake and pump impact fee is $3,500, and the station and a direct reuse wastewater fee for commercial drinking water plant. properties is “I would like to ask the attorney to $4,500 draw up an agreement between the and new Chamber of Commerce and the City homes is of Liberty Hill as we discussed in the $3,500.

The executive session and have the contract rate inat the next meeting this month.” crease ~ Council member Liz Rundzieher is being Motion on Chamber Agreement considered to help fund future infrastructure Chamber agreement improvements for both sysThe Council moved fortems. ward in the process of es“Based on the CIP projects tablishing an agreement with (capital improvement) ap- the Liberty Hill Chamber proved back in October of last of Commerce with a unaniyear, in order for us to stay on mous vote Monday, but the track with those projects this is nature and any explanation where we need to be at,” said of the agreement being lined Mayor Rick Hall. “Even with out was not made available. the increases we are still very The agenda item read “Disclose with other cities. We cussion and possible action were low as far as what our im- on a proposed agreement pact fees cost.” between the City of LiberNo other members of the ty Hill and the Liberty Hill Council made comments or Chamber of Commerce for asked questions about the po- us of the Fowler Building”, tential increases. but was moved to execuIn November, the Council tive session on a motion unanimously approved the 10- by Council member Kathy year capital improvement plan Canady. for its water and wastewater When the Council returned services, a critical step in de- to open session, Mayor Pro termining if and when impact Tem Liz Rundzieher made fees should be changed. the motion to move forward.

The Impact Fee Committee “I would like to ask the atproposed $61 million in water torney to draw up an agreeinfrastructure improvements ment between the Chamber of Commerce and the City of ©2020 The Liberty Hill Independent Liberty Hill as we discussed in the executive session and have the contract at the next meeting this month,” she

See COUNCIL, Page A6

News@LHIndependent.com

January 16, 2020 | 50 Cents

BUSINESS

Commercial development continues across Liberty Hill; tenant activity slows

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer The development of new shopping centers and office condos in and around Liberty Hill has continued to stay strong into the new year. While the demand from new tenants hasn’t been as active, that demand is expected to pick up over the next few months.

The newest development in Liberty Hill, Vista at 29, is a mixed-use project that is expected to bring retail, restaurants and office space to the SH 29 corridor. The development will be located approximately a mile west of Ronald Reagan Boulevard and two miles east of US Highway 183 and will be 112,000 square feet. The development is slated to include two retail buildings, three office buildings, three restaurant sites and one pad site.

“We have units for lease and for sale and will have space available for sit down restaurants, including restaurant space that will have beautiful views off the back vista,” said Ryan Perry, broker and vice president at leasing agent Asterra.

Other possible opportunities in the new center will include drive-thru restaurants, coffee shops, neighborhood

service providers like nail salons, pharmacies and grocery stores; health care providers like dentists and doctors; and professional or medical office space for attorneys, insurance agents and real estate companies, Perry added. According to Asterra, Vista at 29 will provide great visibility to over 19,000 vehicles per day on SH 29.

“Vista at 29 will serve the booming cities of Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Cedar Park and Leander,” Perry said. “We are now leasing and selling with pre-construction pricing. We expect the property to be finished and available for occupancy in August or September.”

Highway 29 Office Park, located at 14001 W. SH 29

in Liberty Hill, is owned by Youngquist Investments and has a few tenants, including home building companies Goertz and Iselt Construction, LLC; KLM Design Build; and a professional therapist.

Perry is working on adding more tenants to the building and hopes to have it full this

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer Job growth is going to be a hot topic across several different sectors in Liberty Hill this year.

Representatives from the City of Liberty Hill, the Liberty Hill Independent School District and the Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area recently joined together to discuss the implementation of an industry advisory board in Liberty Hill as a way to make sure students who will soon be entering the workforce have the skills employers are seeking.

Creation of this board comes on the heels of a recent announcement from Williamson County that it has tied for the second largest percent increase in employment in the United States with a 3.9 percent gain from June 2018 to June 2019.

In comparison, the largest increase in employment was Adams County, Colo., with a gain of 5.3 percent. Williamson County tied for second with Richmond County, NY, and

Utah County, Utah, according to a Williamson County press release.

Paul Fletcher, CEO of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, said it’s exciting to be in one of the fastest growing areas of the state and country when it comes to jobs.

“There are hundreds of opportunities for people who want to live here and move here and become part of that growth,” he said. “Our job is to make sure there’s a pipeline of skilled workers. We have five specific areas we focus on: IT, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, skill trades, and retail and hospitality.”

Williamson County’s yearly employment growth has ranged from 2.9 to 4.7 percent over the past five years. Industries that have had the largest increase overall are education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and construction, according to the press release.

Cara DiMattina Ryan, chief strategy officer for Workforce

Solutions Rural Capital Area, said the growth in Williamson County is centered around a few key areas. First, Williamson County is attracting the attention of advanced manufacturers and IT centered companies that are going to promote the growth of careers that support those areas, she said.

“Because of the affordability and quality of life in Liberty Hill and other parts of Williamson County, we’re also seeing population growth at a rapid rate,” she added. “That growth lends itself to the development of people-centered career opportunities, such as construction-related skilled trades, health care workers, teachers and retail-related opportunities. We have really great partners in Liberty Hill that are already focused on developing the workforce for these high-growth industries that will have an impact on the region.”

Lance Dean, executive director of Liberty Hill’s Economic Development Corporation,

said the industry advisory board is still in its infancy.

“We’re really just kind of getting it started,” he said. “Cara, Megan Riggins with the CTE program at Liberty Hill High School, and myself met for the first time right before Christmas and talked about what we wanted to do.”

Dean said market research from Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area showing top positions in the county and highest employer needs will come into play as the board is formed. Riggins will be looking at what LHISD schools are offering when it comes to certifications and what needs to be changed or added, Dean said, while he will be working with local businesses to learn what skills they need employees to have.

“The next step is looking for people who are interested in participating on the board,” Dean said. “We’ll try to bring in some local business owners,

COURTESY GRAPHIC

Liberty Hill’s newest development, Vista at 29, will include three office buildings with multiple suites as part of the mixed-use space. Completion on the project is expected by September.

See BUSINESS, Page A5

County’s job growth prompts LHISD, City to create industry advisory board

See INDUSTRY, Page A4

Junior High Robotics Club ‘Mindstorms’ for competition

By ANTHONY FLORES Staff Writer As most students head for the exits at the end of the day at Liberty Hill Junior High, 13 – divided into four groups – huddled around small vehicles made of Legos.

These are the students that make up the LHJH Robotics club, and the small vehicles they are busy tending to are the robots they’ve worked hard to program, design and build.

This week, in particular, is unlike previous ones as they prepare to compete in the TCEA Mindstorms Robotics Challenge Saturday.

For the competition, the club is divided into four teams, each with a robot that must be designed and programmed to accomplish a specific set of goals.

Each group is made up of students who specialize in different areas and work together to complete the established goals.

The self-titled Jazzy Bee Boys team is comprised of Captain Alex Rivas, Carson Cearley, and George Spivey. The group of three stands by the practice table as they discuss how to

correct the mistakes their machine continues to make after a few trial runs.

“Basically, how we work as a team is that we work in phases,” said Spivey. “Carson and I build it, and then Alex starts to code, gets the code ready, and we start planning.

Once Carson and I finish the build, Alex takes over.”

As the boys detail how their robot works, it’s easy to see how dedicated they are to completing a successful attempt.

With each failure the team faces, it goes back to the drawing board, undeterred. The original design proved to be too large to work with, forcing the team to tinker with the design.

“I realized that it’s really wide, and part of our goal is not to touch the pipes on the board,” said Rivas. “So, if we have something really wide and we’re trying to move something, we’re going to hit something else. Thus, I began taking apart the legs and trying to put them under the robot.

Eventually, we got it right.”

The dedication to their work comes from their personal inspirations for joining the club.

ANTHONY FLORES PHOTO

The Liberty Hill Junior High Robotics Club includes Bren Masiakowski, Hayleigh Yeargain, Madelena Flores, Hayley Pacheco, George Spivey III, Carson Cearley, Alex Rivas, Alex Heiderscheit, Jayce Taylor, Cole Labay, and Darren Ebbers.

Rivas believes this is a good step in the right direction for his goals later in life.

“I think in the future, I want to go into a job with programming, and I think this is the

best place for me to start,” he said.

For Spivey, being part of robotics is the beginning of a path he hopes leads him to the stars, or as close as he can get

to them.

“I want to go into a job that programs and also lets me build something,” said Spivey. “I want to work for NASA because my childhood dream

was to be an astronaut.”

As the boys work to correct their errors, on the opposite side of the practice table is

See ROBOTICS, Page A5

Page A2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 16, 2020

Commissioner Long named CAMPO Chair

At its January meeting, the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Policy Board unanimously elected Williamson County Precinct 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long as its 2020-2021 Chair.

Commissioner Long is the first Williamson County representative and first woman to serve as Chair of the six-county CAMPO Board.

“I am honored to be selected by my transportation colleagues in the Central Texas region to lead our organization at this crucial time. Two of CAMPO’s most important functions are planning for the future of transportation and allocation of funds to high priority projects in the six county region, includ-

ing Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson counties,” said Long.

Long has served on CAMPO since 2007 and have previously served as Vice-Chair.

She has a passion for common sense transportation solutions and has earned her place in the region as a transportation leader.

“Cynthia Long is an exceptional leader. Now she has the opportunity to be a leader in our region and our state,” said Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell. “I am not aware of an appointment of a Williamson County elected official that has happened in the past 20 years that is as significant as the one that happened last night.”

Williamson County is the

fifth fastest growing county in Texas for the past eight years nearing a population of 600,000.

CAMPO is the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties. MPOs are federally required throughout the country in areas with a population of 50,000 or more and are required to produce a 20+ year transportation plan, called a Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), and a four-year planning document called the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

CAMPO is governed by a 21-member Transportation Policy Board, made up of 19 elected officials and a repre-

CYNTHIA LONG County Commissioner sentative from TxDOT and one from Capital Metro. The Policy Board is the body that makes decisions on CAMPO policy and decide how CAMPO funding is allocated.

Chase ends in arrest near high school

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

A Pflugerville man fled from Liberty Hill police officers attempting to make a stop on SH 29 just after noon Monday, leading to a brief pursuit, a crash and short lockout at Liberty Hill High School.

Liberty Hill Police received a call of a rolling domestic disturbance on SH 29. When the vehicle – a silver Ford Taurus – was located, the victim was no longer in the car, but the suspect, Joshua Showels, 28, of Pflugerville, refused to stop.

Officers pursued Showels from the intersection of SH 29 and CR 200 west, where he drove into the parking lot of Liberty Hill High School.

Showels drove along the eastern fence line of the school property before driving through a fence and crashing his vehicle into a retention pond.

According to Police Chief Maverick Campbell, Showels then fled on foot into a wooded area behind the retention pond.

A perimeter was established around the area by officers from Liberty Hill, Liberty Hill ISD and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office and then a law enforcement drone and K9 unit were used to track down Showels in the woods where

MIKE EDDLEMAN PHOTO

Joshua Showels, 28, of Pflugerville, fled from police on SH 29 Monday and ended up crashing his car into a retention pond at Liberty Hill High School. he was apprehended just after 1 p.m.

Campbell confirmed Showels was not armed and no one was

injured.

As a precaution, Liberty Hill High School was placed on lockout status at 12:29 p.m.

and the lockout was lifted at 1:16 p.m.

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Week of Jan. 6-12, 2020 The Liberty Hill Police Department responded to or self-initiated a total of 256 incidents resulting in two cases, 22 citations, 41 warnings and no arrests.

Weekly Highlights: - On Jan. 6, at approximately 8:55 AM, officers responded to Continental Avenue for suspicious activity.

- On Jan. 6, at approximately 7:09 PM, officers responded to Agave Azule Drive for suspicious activity.

- On Jan. 7, at approximately 5:49 PM, officers responded to the 1000 block of Loop 332 for a theft complaint.

- On Jan. 7, at approximately

6:48 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident.

- On Jan. 7, at approximately 11:51 PM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for suspicious activity.

- On Jan. 8, at approximately 8:26 PM, officers responded to Lark Street to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

- On Jan. 9, at approximately 9:40 AM, officers responded to the intersection of W. SH 29 and CR 260 for an accident.

- On Jan. 10, at approximately 9:02 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident.

- On Jan. 10, at approximately

2:14 PM, officers responded to the 10000 block of W. SH 29 for a disturbance.

- On Jan. 10, at approximately 10:06 PM, officers responded to CR 260 and CR 258 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office with an accident.

- On Jan. 11, at approximately 6:56 PM, officers responded to Indians Oaks to assist Williamson County ESD #4.

- On Jan. 12, at approximately 6:59 AM, officers responded to Remuda Drive to assist Williamson County ESD #4.

- On Jan. 12, at approximately 9:43 PM, officers responded to Championship Way for suspicious activity.

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Thursday, January 16, 2020

EDITORIAL:

It’s time to step up

Candidates can now file for a place on the ballot in the Liberty Hill Mayor’s race, a pair of City Council positions, or for one of two places on the Liberty Hill ISD School Board.

The filing period is open until Feb. 14, and it is important that every position on the ballot has at least two candidates vying for each place.

Local government functions best when it is established on a foundation that provides the community a choice of who will lead. The greatest leaders ever to serve in government were better when they faced opposition in an election.

A contested election is the only mechanism that allows for public discussion of the variety of options when it comes to how or why a city or school district should follow a certain path. One candidate means one path. One candidate means an endorsement of what that candidate stands for and advocates.

A contested race means two months to work through the questions on leadership and direction, to hash out future plans and agendas so that the voters have a continued say where Liberty Hill is headed.

In covering the Liberty Hill City Council, The Independent has reported on areas and actions that have raised questions regarding policy, process and the decisions made in leading city government.

The process questions are the most concerning as evidence mounts of a consolidation of control and the marginalization of many longtime participants. The perception is that there is less public discussion and fewer people involved in the process.

The questions of policy and decision-making are issues that deserve a light shined on them to provide the community the information it needs to approve or disapprove of the current direction.

The Independent has also become a place where concerned people in the community come to talk about their issues and experiences with the current leadership. Whether it’s a personal or professional matter, these concerns come to us as off-the-record conversations. We’ve had at least half a dozen this month alone, featuring a variety of claims.

Sometimes there is research or deeper investigation our staff conducts to try and bring issues to light. Sometimes it is information simply filed away for another day should the particular issue reemerge in a different way.

At some point these concerned individuals should step forward and publicly share their concerns or they will be left to operate in the same scenario they face today, but against an established leadership further emboldened by tacit endorsement of the current situation.

If any of these questions or concerns raise eyebrows among the resident voters, then they should also generate a push for a new referendum on the future of Liberty Hill. That is only possible through a contested election.

It is not what The Independent questions or writes about that will encourage change or the status quo, it is the reaction of the voters in Liberty Hill.

If the news and questions raised through The Independent don’t spur candidates to step up and voters to support them, then the community will have clearly spoken through a lack of action as well.

Our staff knows there is disagreement and dissatisfaction in the community regarding the current leadership. The question that remains is how much disagreement exists below those surface rumblings and how much it matters.

Filing deadline Feb. 14 in local races

The filing period for candidates in Liberty Hill city and school elections is Jan. 15Feb. 14. Three positions on the City Council and a pair of places on the Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees are up for grabs on the May 2 ballot.

Council Places 3 and 1 – currently held by Kathy Canady and Tony DeYoung, respectively – will be on the ballot, as well as the Mayor’s position, held by Rick Hall.

Canady and DeYoung were both appointed in 2019 to fill unexpired terms.

The three positions on the Council will be the first to receive compensation as approved by the Council.

Members will each receive $12,000 annually, while the Mayor will receive a $40,000 annual salary.

The two positions on the school board are for Place 1 – currently held by Clint Stephenson – and Place 2 – held

by Clay Cole.

Candidates will participate in the newspaper’s Candidate Forum in April.

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page A3

Throwback Thursday Holy Trinity Catholic Church dates back to late 1800s

By JAMES WEAR Columnist While going through some old p h o t o graphs, I came across one from nearly a century ago and it led me to invite readers for a bit of a road trip this week. Our little jaunt will take us over near Jarrell, where one can find Holy Trinity Catholic Church, located within five miles off IH-35 in a community known as New Corn Hill.

The photograph that caught my interest includes my mother and her siblings as well as my grandmother and other relatives posing on the front steps of the church. My mother was raised in this church and later we often attended services there. It was at Holy Trinity that I received my First Communion. In 1963, only days after President Kennedy was shot, my sister was married there, and about 20 years later, funeral services were held there for my grandmother. She, along with my grandfather, is buried in the large cemetery located behind the church.

The original church was actually a small one-room chapel, with just enough room for the priest and Mass servers.

Parishioners stood outside. A couple of years after the parish was established, a larger church was constructed, and it was named Holy Trinity Catholic Church after the church in Ostravice, Moravia, which was the former home of many Corn Hill residents.

Work began on the present-day church in 1912. My mother told us our grandfather was among those who worked on the building with his most daunting task being among those who painted the high ceilings.

At one time there was a large wood-frame school house located next to the church. My mother was among those who attended school there, and my brother and I took Catechism classes there. It was torn down several years ago and a new facility was built.

It has been many years since I attended Mass there, but I recall during my childhood the men sat on one side of the center aisle and women sat on the other side. I can only suppose it was some kind of tradition from the Old World carried over.

Holy Trinity held an annual parish picnic at nearby Moravian Hall for many years, an event that drew hundreds of both young and old. On the

(ABOVE) A family photo from the late 1920s with my mother seated front and center. To her left are her two brothers, while my grandmother is standing second from left with her youngest daughter to her left. The rest of the group includes my grandmother ’s cousins and other relatives. The group is posing on the front steps of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

(Courtesy Photo) (RIGHT) Found in a collection of items my mother had saved is this card that pictured the original churches at New Corn Hill as well as the one built in 1912.

(Courtesy Photo)

outside grounds a polka band would play while various booths were set up to raise funds. My mother would often spend hours playing bingo. An auction was the highlight of the afternoon. I recall a plain old carpenter’s hammer bringing $100, which back in the early 1970s was a pretty good chunk of change.

The day would end with a dance upstairs with yet anoth-

er polka band taking the stage.

During the band’s breaks, kids would run back and forth across the dance floor, seeing how far they could slide on the slick wooden floor. Later on, those same children, as they grew into their teenage years, would join the adults on the dance floor.

I can recall myself taking a few huge gulps of a beverage I’ll call “artificial courage” as I

worked up the nerve one night to ask a pretty young girl to join me on the dance floor.

To get to Holy Trinity, take the 271 exit off of IH-35 North, head east of CR 311 for a couple of miles or so, take a right on FM 1105. The church is a quarter of a mile up the road on the left. Visit the church website for service information.

the community supported it, or was even indifferent, this would simply be a piece of news on where the Chamber will office in the future. The decision-making process is at the heart of this issue.

There is a place for executive session. There are circumstances when it is appropriate, and as a journalist I understand and respect that need.

The Council has every right to discuss issues in executive session with the City’s attorney, but within a limited scope.

Texas Open Meetings law spells out what may be discussed in closed session.

“A governmental body may not conduct a private consultation with its attorney except: (1) when the governmental body seeks the advice of its attorney about: (A) pending or contemplated litigation; or (B) a settlement offer; or (2) on a matter in which the duty of the attorney to the governmental body under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflicts with this chapter.”

I assume there was no litigation or settlement being discussed on this particular matter. But even under the blanket claim of “consultation with attorney” there is the further question of how much of that conversation can legally be conducted behind closed

doors.

According to the Texas Open Meetings Handbook, Section IX under “Closed Meetings”, once the attorney consultation is completed the discussion of a particular decision must return to open session for consideration.

“A governmental body may, for example, consult with its attorney in executive session about the legal issues raised in connection with awarding a contract, but it may not discuss the merits of a proposed contract, financial considerations, or other nonlegal matters in an executive session held under section 551.071 of the Government Code.”

But when the Council returned to open session Monday, made the vague motion and called for the vote without any discussion, it seemed clear that whatever questions or discussion of the purpose, parameters, issues, concerns or details of this agreement had been ironed out in the executive session. Everyone was clearly in agreement on what the vote was for and what the motion intended.

Everyone, that is, but the curious public.

Returning to open session and declaring that no action was taken in executive session is a flimsy cover for defending the notion of making decisions in public.

Not voting on an issue in

executive session does not cover the requirement to conduct City business in a public forum.

It is flatly illegal to vote in closed session, a clearly black and white issue.

What is not so clear is where the line is crossed in discussing City business in closed session. That is left up to the government body, generally, to police itself and do the right thing.

This scenario has played out a number of ways at Council meetings over the last 18 months, from Hall requesting that discussions of the Mayor’s powers be discussed behind closed doors rather than publicly, to other items pulled from the agenda to be discussed in executive session and later voted on through a vague motion that left more questions than answers.

For her part, Canady defended the motion to go into executive session in a conversation with The Independent Tuesday, saying she did have legal questions, but chose not to elaborate. She also said she would inquire about the use of executive session, and added that she wants the process to be as open as possible.

I applaud that, but at the same time, if this issue was as open as possible there would not still be a question on what this agreement entails two days after the meeting concluded.

Discussions on the public business belong in a public forum

By MIKE EDDLEMAN Managing Editor As quickly as Monday’s Liberty Hill City Council meeting opened, the Council moved into executive session.

Two items were pulled immediately from the regular agenda at the request of Council member Kathy Canady after the body voted unanimously in support of her motion. At no point was there public discussion on one of the items, and only a brief statement by Mayor Rick Hall on the other.

Executive session is not intended to be a place where the council goes to deliberate issues privately before returning to the public forum with a unanimous decision and clear plan of action to vote on silently in unison.

The limited evidence available through observation is that this tool – designed for attorney consultation – is being stretched and manipulated to allow for discussions behind closed doors that the law demands be held publicly.

The agenda item regarding an agreement with the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce is the best recent example of this ongoing practice.

The item was listed on the Council agenda as “Discussion and possible action on a proposed agreement between the City of Liberty Hill and the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce for use of the Fowler Building.”

The Council materials provided to The Independent – which we are told includes the same materials provided to Council members – had no reference documents attached to the item and no explanation.

It was unclear what this proposed agreement was before the meeting began, and just as unclear when the meeting concluded. All the public knew at the end of the night was that an agreement would be drawn up for a vote at the next meeting.

It is unlikely there is anything intentionally secret about this agreement, but it might as well be because the Council chose not to discuss the issue in open session and failed to explain the agreement when a vote was taken.

Why the need to be so vague?

Why not have the discussion in the open forum?

When the Council voted on the agreement, the motion – made by Liz Rundzieher – stated, “I would like to ask the attorney to draw up an agreement between the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Liberty Hill as we discussed in the executive session and have the contract at the next meet-

ing this month.”

After a unanimous vote in favor of the motion, the Council moved on.

What is the decision-making process for this Council?

Some form of request from the Chamber of Commerce, or suggested agreement from the City to the Chamber must have led to this item being placed on the agenda. Where was this documentation when the packet was presented for consideration?

Hall declined Wednesday to elaborate on the agreement being drafted, explaining that the agreement required the approval of both the Council and the Chamber of Commerce.

This means the agreement the Council unanimously supports will not be public information until the Council votes on the particular wording.

Based on past actions, the assumption can be made this agreement will allow the Chamber to office in the Fowler Building downtown, something the previous Council rejected as not the original intent for the property when the City purchased it. But that’s an assumption in light of the absence of facts.

To be clear, the concern on the part of The Independent isn’t about whether the Chamber should office in the Fowler Building or not. If the Council voted for it, the Chamber was happy with the agreement and

Page A4

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

OBITUARIES Monroe Wilson Tyler, Sr. Monroe Wilson Tyler, Sr. passed away in Liberty Hill, Texas on January 11, 2020 after putting up the fight of his life battling cancer for the last three and a half years. He died peacefully at home in the arms of his wife Sandra Tyler at the age of 72.

He was born in San Saba, Texas on December 05, 1947.

His parents were Vurnal and Edna Tyler. He was the youngest of six children, one brother and four sisters. After graduating from high school he naturally worked for a few years spreading his wings, learning how to fly as a young adult and soon found himself serving our country in the Vietnam War. He received the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and Sharpshooter for Rifle.

After returning home from Vietnam, he worked several trades but he became most accomplished in the construction business working for a home builder in Austin, Texas.

After several years working for Hudson Construction he decided to undertake his own business in the construction of home building and remodeling under the name of Tyler Construction.

He met his next door neighbor in 1977 while living in an apartment in Austin, Texas, fell in love and married Sandra Koenning August, 26, 1978. Together they had two sons, Monroe Wilson Tyler

Jr. and Spencer James Tyler. Monroe also has another son, Clint Stevens Tyler from a prior marriage. Together they enjoyed living the simple life of focusing on educating these boys, making sure they did well in school and participated in sports to learn about true team spirit. What Monroe enjoyed most was teaching his boys how to work hard side by side with him, but especially teaching the skill of the outdoor life hunting and fishing. They took many hunting trips together and sometimes brought home the meat! After moving to Liberty Hill, Texas to live in a country setting to raise his boys, he joined the local VFW and became Commander and is currently a Life Time Member.

Monroe is survived by his wife Sandra, three sons Clint Tyler of Pearland, Texas, Monroe Tyler, Jr. of Giddings, Texas and Spencer Tyler of New Braunfels, Texas; three grandchildren Mason Dakota Tyler, Eva Lynn Tyler and Johnna Leeson Tyler; and his sisters and brother, Sara Smith of Tow, Texas, Claudia Poole of San Saba, Texas, Pat West of Lawton, Oklahoma, Sue Harkey of San Saba, Texas and VC Tyler of San Saba, Texas. He is preceded in death by both parents and one nephew.

Services are being held at the Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on 1200 S. Bagdad Road, Leander, Texas. Visitation is Thursday, January 16

Dennis Darrell Wilie

from 5 to 6 pm for family and 6 to 8 pm for others. The funeral also at the funeral home is Friday, January 17, at 10:30 am followed by interment at the Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to contribute to the Fisher House Foundation. The online link is fisherhouse.org.

INDUSTRY

Thursday, January 16, 2020

Dennis (Denny) Darrell Wilie, age 77, of Liberty Hill passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2020.

Denny was born on April 4, 1942 in Hamilton, Texas. He was the third of eight children born to Walter (Cal) and Lorene Wilie. He lived in Gatesville, Texas until he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1961. He has been a resident of Liberty Hill since 1985.

Denny spent most of his adult life in law enforcement.

He was proud to be a Texas Highway Patrolman for a number of years and then a Burnet County Deputy Sheriff. He was the first elected City Marshall after Liberty Hill incorporated in 1999.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters (Robbie, Lenore, and Charlotte). He is survived by his

wife, Bonnie Copeland Wilie of Liberty Hill; two daughters, Monica Ross and husband Sean of Montgomery, Pennsylvania and Tracey Wilie of Austin; three stepsons, Don McCown, Bill McCown, and Mike McCown and wife Vicky of Liberty Hill.

He was a special Pop to the following grandchildren: Hayden Ross of Montgomery, Pennsylvania; Shane McCown and Wesley McCown of Liberty Hill; Amanda McCown of Kearney, Nebraska; Ashley Hatton oflvins, Utah; Chelsea Pavliska of Liberty Hill; and Bradley Wheeler of Jarrell. He has two great-grandchildren--Avery and Jonathan.

He leaves behind four brothers: Terry and wife Brenda of Houston; Walter of Schulenberg, Eldon and wife Susan

Continued from Page A1

and Megan is looking into offering some internal surveys at the schools to find out what students are interested in and what skills they want to learn.

We don’t know yet when this board will be officially launched, but it will be soon.”

Dean added that as Liberty Hill continues to grow and develop, it’s a natural progression for the school district to create a board like this.

“We want to show students that they don’t need to grow up and move away,” he said. “We

want to show them there are opportunities and employers here locally. We want to make a connection between the local business community and the school district so if it is possible to train students for skills that are needed, we can do that. If we can show we have an engaged school district, that shows from an employer standpoint that we can create a workforce by developing programs we need.”

Dean said skills he believes Liberty Hill’s future workers

need include social skills and knowledge of manufacturing, distribution, professional services, oil and gas and information technology.

“With all the growth going on in Liberty Hill in general, we need to be proactive in helping to develop the workforce of tomorrow,” Dean said. “That will help in recruiting businesses to the area.”

Ultimately, Fletcher said it’s an exciting time to be in the job market and in the talent pipeline in Williamson Coun-

of Cedar Park, and Curtis and wife Melody of Friendswood.

Denny also has numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of his life will be held at noon on April 4 at Rockpointe Church on County Road 214 in Liberty Hill.

Donations in his name may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation. https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

ty.

“There are abundant opportunities and a lot of different things that can be done,” he said. “It’s a good time to be looking for a job and trying to figure out what you want to do for a career.”

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Thursday, January 16, 2020

ROBOTICS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Continued from Page A1

the group that teacher Bonnie Reichert refers to as her dream team -- four girls with varying levels of experience in robotics.

Keeping up a tradition of naming themselves after candies, this all-girls’ team goes by the Sour Patch Kids. For three of the members, competing at the highest level for their grade is a familiar experience, making it to state last year. The shortcomings the girls experienced in their first run at state have stuck with them, inspiring the new design of their current robots.

“We didn’t put in as much effort as we could last year,” said team captain Bren Ma-

BUSINESS

siakowski. “So, this year, we worked way harder, and we’ve progressed a lot more.”

Like the Jazzy Bee Boys, the girls have learned to scale down their robot after suffering from that mistake at last year’s state competition.

“We didn’t make it huge because last year we had a huge claw,” said Masiakowski. “It was the type made for construction, and that was a horrible idea. We had to tape a big wheel to the side to balance it.”

Team member Haley Pacheco says the team needs to “make use of our time at the competition to program our robot beforehand.” A belief that

Continued from Page A1

spring.

“The Highway 29 Office Park is doing great,” he said. “We expect to add several large office and retail tenants to the list this month.”

Panther Plaza, located at the northeast corner of SH 29 and CR 200, has been complete since October 2019, but has yet to sign any tenants. The property is delivering options of 1,200 to 10,000 square feet in shell condition, said Kim Nordquelle, commercial adviser for leasing agent Retail Solutions.

“Being the new year, activity should be picking up again now that it’s after the holidays,” she added.

Progress on a couple of new businesses is ongoing at Water Tower Center, at 14125 W. SH 29 in Liberty Hill. The first, Texas Taco Kitchen LLC, is slated to open at the end of February or beginning of March, said Monique Rivera, broker with Asterra. The other business, a Baylor, Scott & White therapy group, will move into the center by the

end of February. Both businesses will be opening in the center’s Building B, which is the southernmost building on the property. Grand Donuts is currently the only occupant in the center’s Building A. “We would love to add more medical, ice cream, a hair salon, a dentist, an orthodontist, martial arts, yoga, or a gym at the Water Tower Center,” Rivera added.

Jardin Plaza, located next door to Mexican restaurant Jardin Corona at 15395 W. SH 29, is being developed by JLB Real Estate. Francisco Puebla, co-owner of developer JLB Real Estate and manager of Jardin Corona, said the building will consist of six units total ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 square feet each. Tony Zarate of PH Construction, the general contractor on the project, said the project should be completed by April.

“We are at the foundation stage of the project,” he said.

“We poured the foundation a few weeks ago and we are now awaiting our steel delivery to

captain Masiakowski strongly supports.

“Before the competition, we have to try and get as many tasks done as possible because you have two to three minutes once your program is finished to just to stand there,” said Maisakowski.

While the girls have a deep competitive drive, it isn’t the desire to compete that is their driving force for being in the club. Each has their own personal reason for dedicating their time and effort to the activity.

For Hayleigh Yeargain – a member of robotics since the fourth grade – the love of robotics and programming stems

from her father, who programs and codes for a security company.

“My dad does a lot of computer stuff, and he introduced me to coding and programming,” said Yeargain. “It made me start doing robotics in fourth grade – what started as block coding – and I’m trying to go farther than that now.”

The new face on the team this year is Madelena Flores, and it’s her interest in engineering that brought her to the club.

“This is my first year, and I’m just learning it,” she said.

“Sometimes, they give us mystery challenges, and I do those to get a feeling of the code. The main reason I joined

finish construction.”

The Shops at San Gabriel Ridge on Highway 183 in north Leander have yet to sign on any new tenants beyond what is already in business there, which includes Furniture Market, Sabino’s Pizza Pub, Frontier Bank and Perky Beans, among others.

“As of right now we do not have any new tenants coming in,” said Rivera, who serves as broker for the property. “We would love to add any medical tenants, a nail shop, a tanning shop, yoga, martial arts or ice cream.”

The 183 Highlands Retail Center, located on Highway 183 heading north into Liberty Hill, has one business in process of construction.

“Dr. Armando Reid with #thesmiledoc is in the process of beginning construction on the north end cap and should be open for business this spring,” said Tawney Stedman, a broker with Capella.

In addition to the retail center, commercial pad sites and an office park are also a part of

the mixed-use development.

Stedman said the Highlands Office Park’s office condos first building will be completed by the end of January.

“The building is 9,100 square feet,” she said. “We are offering suites size 750 square feet and up for lease or purchase.”

Already signed on to a couple of the commercial pad sites are Trillium Montessori, a childcare center, and Paws Landing, a luxury dog daycare, groomer and indoor dog park. They are anticipated to open by January 2021 and late 2020, respectively.

“Now that the retail building is constructed and the office condos are going up, we have been pleased with the activity on both projects,” Stedman said. “Once our buyers and tenants are in place the traffic in the center will create excellent synergy for the remaining office and condos. This has been an exciting project for Capella and we look forward to seeing what other users join us.”

BUSINESS

Chamber welcomes Perky Beans

The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Perky Beans Coffee. Owners are Ron and Angie Diaz. Perky Beans is located at 2080 US 183 #210, Leander, TX 78641. (Photo Courtesy Deborah Reinhard)

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Page A5

robotics is that I’m interested in engineering, and I think it’s a good way to learn.”

When it comes to team captain Masiakowski, her inspiration was simple, concise, and straight to the point – spy movies. Humor aside, the team captain first got the itch for robotics watching fellow team member Yeargain compete.

“I went to Hayleigh’s competition one year, and I was really excited about it,” said Masiakowski. “The pressure, I could see it, and I thought that’s definitely something for me.”

When observing each group and listening to their conversations, the dedication to what

they’re doing runs deep. Jayce Taylor, member of the Circuit Breakers team – like the rest of the students in the club – sees beyond competition, relishing in the feeling of accomplishment at seeing their robots come to life.

“It gives you a good sense of accomplishment, and when your robot goes in and does all the things you need it to, you feel good because it worked, and you did that,” said Taylor.

“It challenges your brain.”

Page A6

COUNCIL

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 16, 2020

Continued from Page A1

motioned.

The Council approved the motion without discussion or explanation of the details of the agreement.

In a Wednesday telephone interview, Hall declined to provide more details of the agreement the Council intends to present.

“That’s when we’re going to discuss it in open (session),” Hall said of the agreement.

“We are discussing with our legal counsel on how we want the agreement structured. Then we are going to have to vote on it that we want to send this agreement to the Chamber.

Then they will have to vote to accept it, so this is not a one and done process.”

Hall defended the lack of details so far in the process and said they would be available at the next Council meeting when the Council plans to vote on the agreement.

“It will be brought back to the Council on the 27th to vote on and we will do all that in open session,” he said.

In January 2019, then Chamber of Commerce President Kim Sanders requested during the public comments portion of a Council meeting that the City consider a partnership with the Chamber that would allow the organization to have office space and operate out of the Fowler Building once the building was complete.

A number of Council members at the time spoke out against the idea, and the Council voted 4-0, including Rundzieher, to deny use of the building to the Chamber.

“When we purchased the Fowler Building, we did that with the understanding we were going to use it as an art museum, then we had the Chamber come, and somebody intimated to them they could use the Fowler House as offices,” then Council member Ron Rhea said. “What we voted on was to use that as an art museum and an archive for the City of Liberty Hill and when we have special events we could use that building. It is not to house the EDC or the Chamber or anybody else. I’d like to reaffirm what we originally voted on, regardless of promises

that were made to the chamber from whomever.”

Hall served as Chamber of Commerce President up until shortly after his announcement to run for Mayor in February 2018. Hall’s spouse, Jerri Hall, currently serves as the Chamber’s Executive Director.

One local resident, former Council member Liz Branigan, spoke on the issue during public comments, imploring the Council to not enter into an agreement that would provide office space to the Chamber.

“We purchased the Fowler House and we purchased and restored it in order to maintain our commitment to the arts,” she said. “It is what sets us apart and it’s what has made us special for years and years. I think we need to keep the Fowler House committed to the arts as what it was intended for a couple of years ago. It can be used for many different community groups.

The Chamber of Commerce can hold its meetings there and then clear out for another community group.”

Job descriptions Job descriptions were approved by the Council for its members and the Mayor, spelling out the core responsibilities and time commitment expected of those serving on the Council.

“This is basically what we’re trying to do as part of the Council’s fiduciary duties to the City because these positions will be a stipend position and will be earning pay for these positions going forward after this next election,” Hall said.

The responsibilities include review and approval of the annual budget, setting a tax rate, entering legal contracts, borrowing funds and establishing long and short term priorities among others. The duties spelled out for the Mayor include the same plus management responsibilities over City staff and establishing committees.

The requirements approved call for a minimum of 10 hours per week of dedicated time for Council members and 32 hours per week for the Mayor. It was unclear how those hours will

The City Council settled on a basic design for new City monument signs to be placed at the entrance to Liberty Hill on SH 29. The design will be modified slightly and brought back for approval in February along with cost estimates for the project.

(Courtesy Graphic) will offer a new home to the with the approval of an adden- the next Council meeting and be tracked or monitored.

“We are looking at several Over the Hill Gang, and allow dum to the contract with Halff will post public notices redifferent items here to track its current home behind Park- & Associates to manage the garding the effective date of those hours,” Hall said. “We er’s Market to be turned into bid process and construction the change. phase of the project.

The Council also approved haven’t got it nailed down yet. downtown parking.

Halff & Associates was grant- drafting a resolution asking the Of course we have until May to The 30-foot by 45-foot strucfigure out how we’re going to ture on the site now will be ed the contract for the design Texas Department of Transdo that. A lot of it is going to be redone in the first phase of phase of the project in August portation (TXDoT) to conduct in-office time we are spending, the project, with an expansion 2017 and the Swim Center a warrant study to possibly planned later. Hall said he design that was approved in lower the speed limit on RR especially for the Mayor.”

1869 through the city as well.

When the Council approved expects the price tag of both 2018.

The contract for the additionCouncil member Steve McInthe new fiscal year budget in phases together to be about al services is in the amount not tosh was appointed to be the September 2019, it included $500,000. point person in contacting TXan annual stipend for Coun- “We’ve got this broken out in to exceed $72,200.

Brian Binkowski with Halff DoT on the issue. cil members of $12,000 and phases,” Hall said. “Phase one will be to renovate the existing & Associates said the project Monument signs $40,000 for the Mayor.

The Council got its first look No sitting member of the building we have right now. could go out for bid as early Council will be eligible for the Phase two will be building an as February. The anticipated at proposed new monument compensation until the next expansion on that building of construction time frame is nine signs to welcome visitors to another 60 feet.” months.

Liberty Hill. election for their position.

Budget amendment The construction cost is set The proposal discussed inCommunity Center To close out the finances on to be about $1.8 million, with cluded three sign options with The Council approved an architectural proposal for the new the 2018-2019 budget year, the part of that covered through a combination of various stone Community Center planned for Council approved a final bud- a $500,000 grant from Texas and metal that measures approximately 20 feet wide by downtown and will pay EA get amendment that showed a Parks and Wildlife.

P&Z Appointment just over eight feet tall at its Architecture and Planning of total of $5.4 million in general Planned changes to the Plan- tallest point.

Georgetown $19,975 to do the fund revenues and $5.5 million ning & Zoning Commission The sign will be LED lit and design work, manage bidding, in general fund expenses.

Those numbers were consid- were finalized Monday with solar to avoid having to proand contract administration for erably higher than the origi- the appointment of Jared King vide electricity to the site. It the project. will also include a water storThe agreement includes both nally approved revenue and as an alternate commissioner.

King currently serves as the age tank inside the column on phases of design and engineer- expense projections of $3.2 million and $2.9 million re- President of the Liberty Hill the left end that can be used ing work for the project.

Chamber of Commerce Board for drip irrigation for the landHall first proposed building a spectively.

The increased income was of Directors, and is General scaping. community center on property The Council approved the located near the northwest cor- attributed to higher than antic- Manager at Cook-Walden/Daner of Loop 332 and RR 1869, ipated sales tax and develop- vis Funeral Home, Weed Cor- first option with a few modiley Fish Funeral Home in Le- fications, with the plan being which was purchased from ment revenue.

According to information in- ander and Austin Cremations. that Brian Binkowski with Williamson County late last cluded in the Council packet, The Council also approved Halff & Associates will bring year.

Originally, the hope was to se- the increased expenses were scheduling two meetings per back the modified version for cure a grant for the project by attributed to “staffing needs month for the commission, to final approval along with cost creating an emergency shelter, for Finance Director, Emer- be held on the first and third estimates. One key modification will be to include “Est. but instead, Hall said the for- gency Management Depart- Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Speed limits 1999” under the city name. mer county barn on the prop- ment, Utility Billing and PoDrivers will soon be slowing Hall said there was no preset erty will be refurbished for the lice.” Also cited were payout of former City Administrator down as they travel Loop 332. budget for the project going in project.

Once completed, the center Greg Boatright’s contract and The Council voted to lower and no estimate of costs availthe contribution to Liberty Hill the speed limit on the entire- able until Binkowski brings it ISD for the establishment of its ty of the Loop to 30 miles per back to the Council. police department. hour, excluding current school “I have no clue on what that Revenues and expenses for zones. would even cost,” Hall said. each of the six separate bud“If you can go 40 you’re go- “In order for us to get a good gets in the City were adjusted ing to go 50, so if you can go estimate we need to get a good up with the amendment.

30 maybe you’re only going design so it is a step by step “This was the budget that to go 40,” Canady said of her process to get where we need ended before this Council ap- suggestion to lower the speed to be. We’ve got the designs proved the budget we are cur- limit. “We have the absolute and we’ll hopefully get estirently in now,” Hall said. “This right to control the speed lim- mates and be able to make a was the budget created in ‘18 it on the loop. I talked to our decision and move forward that ran through September of Chief of Police and he was with that.”

‘19.” supportive of us talking about The City plans to move the Pool contract changing this.” existing monument signs to The Liberty Hill Swim Center The Council will hold a pub- other entries to the City on RR moved a step closer to reality lic hearing on the change at 1869.

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PUBLIC NOTICES EASY STOP STORAGE LIBERTY HILL Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code. Easy Stop Storage located at 10640 State Hwy 29 W., Liberty Hill, Tx 78642, will hold a public auction of property being sold to satisfy a landlords lien.

The sale will be held online at

http://storagetreasures.com.

Competitive bids for the units will be accepted from January 26th, 2020 at 6AM and closing February 3rd, 2020 @ 11AM. Property will be sold to highest bidder. Deposit for removal and clean may be required.

Seller reserves the right to refuse any bid and to withdraw items from sale. Property in each unit may be sold item by item, in batches or by the space. Property being sold includes contents in the spaces of the following tenants: Janie Duke, Kent Patterson, Jared Macdonald. Sealed totes, Boxes, Electronics, Tools, Furniture.

(1/16) NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY The Board of Trustees of the Liberty Hill Independent School District (“LHISD”) hereby serves notice that it will accept sealed bids for the following real property: The surface only and any improvements thereto described as being: The real property (surface only) consisting of an approximately one (1) acre portion out of the property describe as AW0521 — Robinson J.B Sur acres 19.33 with the address

of 13125 Highway 29, Liberty Hill, Williamson County, Texas, commonly known as the Liberty Hill Junior High School. Said 1 acre portion of the Liberty Hill Junior High School property is described as that portion that borders Highway 29 to the North, the District’s driveway to the West, undeveloped commercial zoned land to the East, and the school parking to the South.

Interested parties may contact Jennifer Hanna, CFO via the address below to receive the Bid Package beginning 8:00am, January 6, 2020. The requested minimum bid price is $750,000.00.

Sealed bids will be received until: 2:00 P.M. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020.

Address: LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Attn: Ms. Jennifer Hanna, Chief Financial Officer 301 Forrest Street Liberty Hill, TX 78642 All bids received at, or prior to, that time will be opened and read aloud. Bids received after that date and time will be returned unopened to the bidder. Faxed or e-mailed bids will not be accepted.

(1/16)

SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, January 16, 2020 Section B Page 1

Uriel Diaz (#00) saves a penalty to preserve at 2-1 victory against Progreso during the Panther Cup on Jan. 3.

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTOS

Goalkeeper-defender relationship critical to success

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Communication.

Without it, goals fly into one’s own net on a soccer field.

So, to that end, the wavelength between the man between the sticks and his teammates who patrol the area directly in front of him must be clear and concise.

After all, there is no room for error on that part of the pitch.

“If the attack makes a mistake, you still have 10 people behind the ball,” said Liberty Hill head Coach Wayne Munger. “But in defense, the ball can end up in the back of your net.”

All of it begins with the goalkeeper, for he is the one player on the field who has the entire game in front of him, which allows the opportunity to be the equivalent of a symphony orchestra conductor.

For the Panthers, senior Uriel Diaz is that man and he realizes how critical communication is to ensure opposing attacks are successfully repelled.

“Basically, if I don’t have good communication with my

center backs, we have issues,” said Diaz. “I’m always letting them know when they have a man behind them or if there’s an open lane.”

One of the players Diaz must be in constant contact with is senior center back Gabe Hernandez, who must also communicate with his fellow defenders.

“Usually, I talk to them all the time,” said Hernandez. “But, Uriel tells us where to move.”

According to Hernandez, one element is absolutely crucial.

“Trust,” he said. “If we do well in preventing goals, we build trust.”

During the recent Panther Cup, the Purple-and-Gold defense experienced the full spectrum of what happens when they communicate effectively and what occurs when they’re lacking in that department.

In the season opener against Midlothian Heritage, the Panthers fell behind by a 4-0 deficit inside the first 42 minutes, but then something happened, said Hernandez.

“We started possessing the ball, which opened lanes up top,” he said.

Which made all the difference, as the Panthers staged a frantic fightback on the strength of a Jaron Frye hat trick in closing the score to 4-3, which was how the contest ended.

A defeat, but valuable lessons learned, said Hernandez.

“We learned in that game what we needed to do moving forward,” he said.

Munger attributed his side’s early-game struggles to a case of being overcautious.

“We have so much youth in our team who are missing experience,” he said. “So, I think they got in our heads early on and we gave them too much respect and space, but then we started stepping to the ball and found success – we were forcing them to play how we want to play and began creating more opportunities.”

Sure enough, the Liberty Hill defense only conceded a single

Gabe Hernandez (#14) provides the Panthers with solid defensive play from his center back

See DEFENSE, Page B3 position.

Perkins leads Runnin’ Panthers to victory

Liberty Hill’s senior guard scored 28 points in a 69-52 win over Wimberley

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Carson Perkins is on his game, he’s very difficult to guard and a perfect example of the Liberty Hill senior guard being nearly unstoppable was on display during the Panthers’ 69-52 home victory against Wimberley on Saturday.

Perkins lit up the Texans for 28 points on the afternoon, including four 3-pointers and a perfect 12-for-12 performance from the free-throw line as the visitors struggled in coping with the Panthers’ point guard.

In fact, Liberty Hill shot 94 percent from the charity stripe, hitting 15-of-16.

But, it was the Panthers’ inside play that befuddled the visitors, most notably sophomore forward Walker Weems, who poured in a career-high 16 points, most of them from close range as the lanky post player got open underneath the basket time and again.

“All I did was get open and my teammates found me with great passes,” said Weems.

“Having Walker (Baty) down low opened up the paint because teams have to double him, which leaves me open.”

Weems hit the first basket of the contest, but then Perkins took over offensively, draining his first three of the game, then

driving the lane and drawing a foul on the Panthers’ next possession before hitting both free-throws for an early 7-3 Liberty Hill lead.

Baty then made his presence known underneath with a power move for a bucket, followed by back-to-back Perkins baskets, the first of which was a 3-pointer.

After that sequence, Baty found himself on the end of a long pass before executing a nice reverse layup, then Kaleb Bannon hit a three to end the first quarter with the home side firmly in control at 22-11.

Wimberley got the first two baskets of the second quarter, but then Baty scored before Perkins drove to the hoop for two, then was fouled hard and drained both free throws, increasing the Purple-and-Gold advantage to 28-18.

The Panthers maintained the 10-point lead, which they took to the half at 34-24.

According to Liberty Hill head Coach Barry Boren, his club was unable to pull away from the Texans due to an inability to clamp down on the visitors.

“Whenever we got ahead by 10, we just weren’t locked in,” said Boren. “They were getting

See PERKINS, Page B3 Carson Perkins (#4) scored 28 points in a 69-52 home win against Wimberley on Saturday.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Page B2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, January 16, 2020

Study in Spain, Osbourne immersed herself in new language, culture

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Habla Espanol?

Laila Osbourne does now after spending six weeks last summer in Malaga, Spain, in what’s known as a Spanish immersion course.

Spanish all day, every day, not to mention entirely different surroundings.

“Over there, it’s so much of a different culture than here in America,” said Osbourne, a sophomore goalkeeper for the Lady Panthers.

According to Osbourne, the seed for the adventure was planted when she observed other young people make the reverse trip across the Atlantic.

“I had seen foreign exchange students here,” said Osbourne.

“So, I thought it was a good idea.”

However, she decided to make the journey a solo endeavor and it certainly didn’t dissuade her enthusiasm.

“Actually, I wasn’t as nervous about the travel,” she said. “I’ve always been ready to know what to do.”

Malaga lies on the south coast of Spain on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, which only added to her excitement on a daily basis during her stay, she said.

“I went to the beach every

day,” said Osbourne. “But, I’ve never been in water that cold before.”

However, long before she could hit the sand, there was plenty of learning to do.

“Every morning we would go to school at 8 a.m. and be there for about four hours,” she said.

“After that, every afternoon there was an activity planned.”

Osbourne and her fellow students visited a water park, did plenty of sightseeing and went rafting, just to name a few.

But, perhaps the most enlightening was a visit to a local movie theater, she said.

“We saw ‘Toy Story 4’,” said Osbourne. “But, it was in Spanish, so I couldn’t understand what they were saying.”

Woody and Buzz Lightyear chopping it up in Spanish.

Been there, done that.

Osbourne said her favorite memory of the entire trip was when the group took up a vantage point which provided them with a view of another continent.

“You could look across the water and see Morocco,” she said. “Also, the people there were so nice – I could easily live there.”

Back in the classroom, Osbourne was surrounded by people from all over the world, including Canada, Norway,

Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark, France and Kenya, which made the experience all the more memorable, she said.

“My roommate was from Canada and her first language was French,” she said.

While she was in Malaga, Osbourne lived with a host family who hosted as many as four students at a time and there was no room for English, she said.

“It was weird at first,” said Osbourne. “But, after the first week, we really opened up to one another.”

One aspect that helped endear her to her hosts was the fact she plays soccer, which of course is the primary passion overseas.

“They thought it was really cool I play,” she said. “I saw a lot of people playing there, but I didn’t have time to, although I did kick the ball around a bit with my host family’s children.”

Part of immersing oneself in a different culture goes far beyond simply learning the language – things as basic as meal times can be an eye-opener, said Osbourne.

“In Spain, they usually have a snack at around four or five in the afternoon,” she said. “But, then they won’t have dinner until nine or 10.”

Day-night doubleheader a delight

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Everything happens for a reason.

After Mother Nature decided to rain on our Purple-and-Gold Parade on Friday, both Panthers’ basketball games were rescheduled for Saturday, which was fine for us because it eliminated the need to choose to attend one or the other as they were both going to come off at the same time.

So, on Saturday afternoon, we arrived at the Purple Palace for a rare weekend matinee as the boys hosted Wimberley, with one eye on our road trip to Burnet for the girls’ game later that evening.

I mean, what’s better than a day-night hoops doubleheader enabling one to see both clubs in action and in two different locales, no less?

It’s a shame at this point in the season both basketball squads have played so few home games, with the early-season tournaments they play in and all, but now that district play is beginning, the contests will come thick and fast.

Especially cool will be when both teams play the same opponent one after the other, as in Salado next week.

But, Saturday was different.

A home game followed by a road game on the same day.

So, after the boys showed the Texans (real original name, Wimberley) a thing or two about how to play full-court press basketball in a 69-52 win, we saddled up and headed west down Highway 29 to one of our favorite places.

I’ve only been a resident of Pantherville for about six months now, but it didn’t take long to pick up on the – how should we put it? – tension between the two towns.

Rumor has it some folk from Burnet even went to the Panthers’ final playoff game of this past season disguised as Lampasas supporters just to spew a little extra hate on Liberty Hill.

We don’t take too kindly to things like that.

You know that feeling of dread you have when you’re on the way to something very painful – like the dentist or the DMV,

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

One Lady Panther who definitely came to play against Burnet was Taylor Swieczkowski, who provided a physical presence and intensity to the proceedings. for example? ski found herself sprawled on Well, that’s kind of what the the floor in between a teamdrive to Burnet is like. mate and an opponent chasing Once you pass through the down a loose ball in a scene nice, little burg of Bertram, one that had a definite Wrestlerealizes it’s only a few more mania quality. miles before reaching BulldKenzy Wise was also mixing awg (not really spelled with a it up with a vengeance, leaving “w”) Country, so you bite the herself red-faced in the afterbullet and keep driving. math from exhaustion.

The main street leading into All in all, it was a gritty, gutty the high school is known as effort across the board that re“The Green Mile,” but it’s nei- sulted in a 46-36 victory. ther very green, nor is it a mile Unfortunately, the occasion long, but whatever. marked what could possibly be So, we head inside and we’re the Lady Panthers’ last visit to greeted by a very nice lady Burnet for quite a while, with who was the ticket-taker and next year’s move to Class 5A she offered a warm welcome, looming off on the horizon like which was nice, but we re- a menacing storm cloud apmained vigilant nonetheless. proaching.

The Lady Panthers’ JV was in So, it was good to get a victothe process of laying a smack- ry over their ancient rivals, just down on their counterparts as their volleyball sisters did after the freshman squad had back in the fall. done the same and then it was Speaking of sisters, the Walktime for Big Girl Basketball. er twins got in on the act, as So, the ball goes up and the Regan drained a 3-pointer to visitors immediately establish begin the second quarter only dominance, as five different to be followed by another Liberty Hill players scored in from Madison moments later taking an early lead. in identical (see what we did One Lady Panther who defi- there – clever!) fashion. nitely came to play was Taylor After the win as the PurpleSwieczkowski. and-Gold convoy headed back The junior forward got signif- to Liberty Hill, it was difficult icant playing time in the post to discern which was brighter with starter Emma Hubbard – the full moon overhead or the still out of the lineup with an Panthers’ supporters basking in injury and she certainly seized the glow of victory. the opportunity with rugged, Either way, it was a fine way aggressive physical play prov- to end a fine day of Liberty Hill ing yet again a Panther will al- basketball. ways beat a Bulldog (see how Even if we had to wait an exwe spelled it, Burnet?). tra 24 hours.

In fact, during one particularly intense sequence, Swieczkow-

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTO

Laila Osbourne usually spends her time stopping shots for the Lady Panthers, but last summer the sophomore goalkeeper spent six weeks in Spain learning the language.

Speaking of food, Osbourne made sure she sampled plenty of the local fare, but one dish quickly became her favorite.

“Paella,” she said. “It’s rice with seafood, peas and carrots -- the food there has lots of

spices and different flavors.”

All in all, the entire experience was definitely one worth doing, said Osbourne.

“I think the best thing about it is to see how much more is out there in the world than just

what’s around us,” she said.

“People should get out of their comfort zone. Going there was the most fun I’ve ever had in my entire life.”

Lady Panther on the mend Ashton Jordan is on her way back to the court after second knee surgery

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Ashton Jordan stands alone at the other end of the court from where her Lady Panthers teammates are conducting a practice.

She holds a basketball in her hands and takes one solitary shot after the other, chasing down her own rebounds only to do it all over again – and again and again.

Jordan, a junior center, is currently recovering from a second arthroscopic procedure on a knee whose anterior cruciate ligament hasn’t wanted to play nice over the past couple years.

First, she blew it out in the summer before her freshman season, only for it to happen again near the end of her sophomore campaign.

Double trouble, indeed.

“I was scared when it happened the first time because I really wanted to play my freshman year,” said Jordan, who is still required to wear a large brace. “I just wanted to be out there.”

She initially injured her knee playing for her select team, Liberty Hill Swoosh and despite the fact the pain was intense when it first occurred, Jordan didn’t realize the extend of her injury at first, she said.

“The pain was a 10 on the scale when it happened,” said Jordan. “At first, I couldn’t walk, but then I was able to keep playing.”

Until two weeks late when an MRI came back with the bad news.

So, she went under the scope for the first time and was expected to need six months to completely recover including rehabilitation and physical therapy.

“Every day I was on a program,” she said. “I would do squats, lunges and get stimulation.”

Finally after plenty of hard work and determination, Jordan made it all the way back and played her sophomore season without incident.

Almost.

“We were getting ready for the regional tournament doing a shell drill doing practice,” said Jordan. “The top part of my leg twisted, but the bottom didn’t.”

Something had to give and it did – this time the same

Lady Panthers junior center Ashton Jordan is currently recovering from her second knee surgery in as many years.

ACL as before, along with a torn meniscus.

However, much like the first time, she didn’t know the extent, she said..

“At first, I thought it was just scar tissue popping,” said Jordan. “My nerves were desensitized and I didn’t feel as much pain, so I didn’t think I was hurt.”

This time, an entire month passed by before she got the latest diagnosis.

The fact she was right on the cusp of making the big time added insult to injury, she said.

“I was devastated,” said Jordan. “I knew I was going to miss playing on the varsity – it broke my heart because I knew I would have to go through it all over again.”

So, on April 18, 2019, she once again had her knee repaired, only this time, a ninemonth rehab was projected.

According to Jordan, she didn’t necessarily feel distant from the team.

“At the beginning, I would only go to open gyms,” said Jordan. “But, then once school started and practice was every day, it was more difficult to accept not being with my teammates.”

Jordan said it’s still difficult to be on the sidelines during games, but her vantage point from the bench has provided her a brand-new perspective of the game.

“I feel like I’ve learned a lot,” she said. “I can see what needs

to be done on the court, which I can’t see when I’m out there – it makes me conscious of what I need to do.”

Whenever an athlete returns to action following a major injury, there’s always the apprehension of going full speed in the fear of not knowing if the repaired area will hold up under the stress of competition and Jordan is certainly no different, she said.

“The first time, it took me a full year before I was confident with my knee again,” said Jordan. “But, this time it’s different because I feel like it’s stronger than it’s ever been.

But, I’m still going to be worried because I won’t know.”

Jordan said if there’s one thing she’s learned over the course of her combined 15 months of rehab, it’s comebacks don’t happen overnight.

“I know I have to be patient with myself,” she said. “I have to give myself plenty of time to get everything back.”

Despite the fact she’s been through so much, Jordan remains resolute in her beliefs as far as how it’s all unfolded.

“At one point, I probably asked ‘why me,’” she said.

“But, now I know it happened for a reason.”

JV ROUNDUP Girls basketball

The Lady Panthers’ junior varsity squad hosted Lampasas Jan. 14 and came away with a 31-9 victory, as Ashlyn Calhoun scored seven points, while Emma McAndrews and Karrington Erps each added six.

Liberty Hill’s freshman girls also picked up a win by a score of 28-19, as McKenzie Plott scored six points and Ashton Williams added four in the victory.

Thursday, January 16, 2020

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page B3

PANTHER OF THE WEEK

JC Russell (#30) brings energy to the team with an intense playing style.

ALEX RUBIO PHOTOS

‘Gold Squad’ integral part of Panthers’ hoops

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Kaleb Bannon (#24) provides grit for the Panthers, as well as an excellent outside shot.

Bannon provides outside shooting, tenacity

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Kaleb Bannon steps on the court, he means business.

Whether it’s spotting up for three from beyond the arc or mixing it up physically with opponents, the Liberty Hill senior forward provides plenty of ferociousness to the Panthers’ game.

After all, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I like getting everyone involved,” said Bannon, who was a starter and averaged 9.1 points per game on last season’s squad which advanced all the way to the Class 4A state championship game.

“I also like to play good defense.”

Bannon played football growing up, but upon reaching high school, decided to stick primarily with hoops.

However, one thing that remained whether he found himself on the gridiron or the hardwood was the level of intensity being a Liberty Hill athlete requires, he said.

“You have to be really dedicated and committed to able to play our system,” said Bannon. “You also have to be in

DEFENSE

great shape to be able to run the press.”

Liberty Hill head coach Barry Boren recognizes what Bannon brings to the court.

“Kaleb is so strong – he’s solid as a rock,” he said. “I wouldn’t expect a player like him to have such a great touch on the ball.”

In fact, Bannon led the Panthers last season with a 39 percent success rate from threepoint range, although this season has brought about a bit of a change, said Boren.

“We need to get him back to where he was last season,” he said, of Bannon, who is currently averaging 7.2 points per contest. “The ball hasn’t been coming to him as much this year.”

Boren added Bannon isn’t exactly your prototypical player.

“Because of his size, he’s not really a guard and he’s too small to be a post, so he’s really more of a small forward,” he said, of his 5-foot-11, 210-pound swingman. “Kaleb’s a bit of an enigma.”

Off the court, Bannon is very unassuming, said Boren.

“Kaleb’s very laid-back and quiet – a real blue-collar per-

Continued from Page B1

goal in the three subsequent games, so it was mission accomplished.

However, success in the moment is only the beginning in establishing a solid defense game in, game out, said Munger.

“You can solve problems in the short term,” he said. “But, really, it’s a long-term project.

Sometimes, it depends on who we’re playing or what kind of chemistry we have at the moment.”

At times, the Panthers will employ three center backs in front of Diaz, while at others a traditional back four with two central defenders and a pair of wing backs are the order of the day.

But, either way, everyone must always be on the same page or the consequences can be deadly, said Munger.

“When you lose track of a talented forward, the worst case is they score a goal,” he said.

Ultimately, if everything goes according to plan, no goals are conceded and the resulting shutout is a source of satisfaction for all involved, said Munger.

“We always love clean sheets,” he said. “But, if we’re not going to get them, the preseason is the time to see where the holes in our defense are.”

As a goalkeeper who is the last line of defense, Diaz takes extreme exception when an opposing shot beats him, he said.

“I prefer not getting scored on at all,” he said. “So, I just save as many shots as I can.”

Hernandez agreed with his keeper.

“As a defender, you always want to keep a clean sheet,” he said. “We especially don’t want a bad team to score on us.”

When the opposition changes tactics during a game, communication is what allows a defense to react accordingly, said Munger.

“It’s really more of a system question,” he said. “Some teams will press up high looking to counter, while others will press lower and look to recycle the ball back, so the ideal situation is to be compatible enough to handle when that happens.”

When a defense is able to maintain proper shape, opposing attacks will grow weary of failing to breach it time and again, said Munger.

“Having tightness at the back will wear a team down,” he said.

Achieving that kind of disciplined play requires a defense to be on point throughout an entire game in more ways than one, said Munger.

“Physically, each play is only a couple seconds of work,” he said. “But, it’s combined with the mental side of the game.

You always need to anticipate the play and not have gaps in the action.”

Hernandez said sometimes the most effective course of action is to keep it uncomplicated.

“Making simple passes and not panicking or overreacting is important,” he said.

When it does all go horribly wrong at the back, necessary changes must be in the offing, said Munger.

son,” he said. “He’s not a fancy dresser or anything – he’s just your common man.”

But, that doesn’t mean Bannon is afraid to needle his teammates as fellow senior Cole Ondrasek is usually his favorite target, he said.

“We’re really good friends,” said Bannon. “But, Cole really likes to talk a lot.”

One thing Bannon enjoys when he’s away from the court is playing video games with his older brother, citing Rocket League as his favorite – a game in which soccer is played by rocket-powered cars.

Speaking of rockets, which Star Wars character would Bannon most like to be?

“R2D2,” he said. “Because I like the sound he makes when he gets shocked.”

When given the choice of whether he would rather be scorer or provider on the court, the decision was easy, said Bannon.

“I’d rather have 20 assists in a game than 20 points,” he said.

“Because that would help the team more – I just like being a team player.”

“One thing we have going for us is unlimited subs, so we can always change personnel when things aren’t going well,” he said. “If everything really falls apart, we can also change formations and if all else fails, a good halftime talk will sometimes do the trick.”

One thing is for certain.

A strong defense provides a platform to build a foundation of success upon, which benefits the entire 11 players on the pitch at a given time – and that is only achieved through cohesion and chemistry, said Munger.

“Communication keeps everyone on the same page,” he said. “The goalkeeper can see the entire field from his vantage point including where the spaces are and can dictate the play going forward – in that way, a defense can be just as much of a playmaker as your midfield.”

But, patience is certainly a virtue, for true understanding isn’t an overnight process, said Munger.

“Strong communication takes time,” he said. “Depending on how much time players get on the ball, it will develop.”

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Unsung heroes are they.

Five players on the Liberty Hill boys’ basketball squad make up an invaluable unit for head Coach Barry Boren – seniors Caeden Minix, JC Russell and Sujit Panday and juniors Collin Lyons and Bobby Haddaway.

They’re known simply as the Gold Squad and the role they play is critical, said Boren.

“Having them allows me to practice the varsity and JV separately,” he said. “In years past, we had to pull players from the JV, which would disrupt the rhythm.”

The five of them see far more action from the bench than the floor during games, but that doesn’t diminish the enthusiasm the group still has.

Russell said despite the limited playing time the five players get, just being in the mix is certainly worth it.

“All of us understand it’s a big honor just to be a part of the team,” he said. “When we do get into a game, it’s really rewarding to see all of our hard work pay off.”

Like earlier this season during a 69-52 home victory over Wimberley, when with a minute left on the clock and the Panthers up by a comfortable margin, the Gold Squad all took the court together and outscored the Texans during their brief appearance, which was gratifying for Boren, he said.

“We try to conduct our business the right way,” said Boren. “Part of that is to make our bench players feel important.”

So, first, Minix hit a pair of free throws, which was followed by a Panday bucket to put the icing on a victory.

According to Minix, situations such as these are all in a day’s work.

PERKINS

Caeden Minix (#15) is part of the Gold Squad, a valuable five-man unit for the Panthers.

“Everyone plays a role and we’re not disappointed,” said Minix. “We bring energy minutes and make our team better.

We’re definitely a brotherhood.”

Indeed, and one which is committed to doing whatever they are called on for – whenever.

“It really brings me comfort when we get into the game,” said Minix. “It’s rewarding because we put so much hard work into practice, so it brings me a lot of joy seeing our teammates succeed.”

Minix, a point guard, got plenty of playing time right up to the end of last season as a member of the junior varsity and had quite an adjustment to make once he found himself on the varsity roster – and the bench, he said.

“I’ve been on a lot of teams where it was the opposite situation for me,” said Minix.

“But, it’s still basketball and I love everything about the game and getting to spend time with some great teammates.”

Russell was also getting regular minutes at the lower levels, but soon came to embrace the role he knew he would play upon reaching varsity.

“We talked about it in the offseason,” he said. “About how I wouldn’t have as big a role, but I just decided I was going to do what I needed to help the

Continued from Page B1

offensive rebounds and hitting threes.”

As the second half got underway, the Panthers’ trademark smothering full-court press got the best of Wimberley on two separate occasions with a pair of 10-second violations, the first of which was sandwiched between a pair of Weems’ baskets to begin the third quarter.

Bannon then hit another three and Perkins drove to the basket and scored with a scoop shot, part of an 8-0 Liberty Hill run, which saw the Panthers outscore the Texans by a 16-8 margin in the third on the way to a 50-32 lead entering the final period.

Boren said the third-quarter resurgence was due to adjustments made by his players in the halftime locker room.

“They changed the defense and the way we were pressing,” he said. “The wings

were helping defend the middle.”

But, the Texans weren’t about to ride quietly off in defeat, as they made a stand in the fourth quarter and actually outscored the Panthers, 20-19.

However, it simply wasn’t enough.

Perkins continued to drive the lane and draw fouls, while Weems and Walker kept scoring down low until only 1:05 remained and Boren subbed all five players on the court, allowing his bench to get some valuable playing time.

Senior guard Caeden Minix and junior forward Bobby Haddaway took full advantage by scoring the Panthers’ final two baskets of the contest to help seal the victory.

Baty added nine points in the win, while Kadin Knight and Bannon each contributed six to the cause.

team.”

Boren said the Gold Squad’s biggest contributions are on the practice court, as they allow workouts to be conducted with the proper intensity.

“We have enough good players to be able to rest guys and keep playing our style,” he said.

Of course, practicing against their teammates means they have some difficult defensive assignments – some of which are tougher than they encounter against actual opponents, said Russell.

“Carson (Perkins) is so quick and he has so much experience,” he said. “Walker (Baty) is just impossible to guard.”

Minix added his view from the sidelines provides him with a wider perspective of how the game unfolds.

“As a player, it’s easier to see the entire floor from the bench,” he said. “So, I just try to encourage my teammates and tell them about things they might not be seeing out there.”

Russell said it’s all a matter of perspective when it comes to how the five view themselves within the team dynamic.

“Really, it depends on how you look at it,” he said. “There are people who would give anything to be where we are, so I’m grateful to be on the team and be part of such a great program.”

Boren was pleased with his squad’s dominant inside play throughout the game.

“We’ve changed our method of operation a bit,” he said.

“We have two guys down low with really good hands and three outside shooters who can score.”

The veteran bench boss also praised his reserves.

“Even the guys coming off the bench can score,” he said.

“We have a good rotation of eight players.”

Boren attributed his team’s crisp play to what occurred two hours before the game.

“We had a good hour of practice,” he said. “So, that was a silver lining after yesterday.”

The game had been originally scheduled for Friday, but was moved to Saturday due to weather.

Liberty Hill (17-6) will next open district play at Salado on Jan. 17.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Zach Ellis (#4) helped the Panthers to a 3-2 road win against Canyon Lake on Jan. 7.

BOYS SOCCER Panthers win five-goal thriller

A 160-mile round trip to Canyon Lake was certainly worth it for the Liberty Hill boys’ soccer squad on Jan. 7, as the Panthers emerged victorious by a 3-2 scoreline over the Hawks in a contest which swayed back and forth as the sides traded goals.

Jessie Anaya got the visitors off on the front foot with a goal in the 20th minute off an assist from senior Gerald Shoetan and a 1-0 advantage.

However, a passing error led to a Canyon Lake equalizer in the 30th minute and a deadlock on the scoreboard, which was where the game stood at the half.

Coach Wayne Munger was pleased with how his side was bossing the proceedings in the opening 35 minutes.

“We started the game so sharp,” he said. “We were very dominant and had 70 percent of the possession, which gave Canyon Lake very limited time on the ball and our passing was very patient – we had 85 percent accuracy. We were all over the field.”

Once the second half began, the teams continued at their respective paces until the 50th minute when sophomore midfielder Garrison Clopton picked up the ball and took it wide, only to cross to junior striker Jaron Frye, who netted for his eighth goal of the season, giving the Panthers back the lead at 2-1.

“It wasn’t the best ball in, but it got there and Jaron just passed it past the keeper,” said Munger.

But, the Purple-and-Gold fell victim to a quick set piece and yet another Hawks goal to level the score at 2-2 in the 60th minute.

“We just didn’t set up our defensive wall fast enough,” said Munger.

Alas, nearing the end of the game, it was Frye who turned provider in setting up junior midfielder Graeme Nelson for the game-winner.

“Jaron picked up the ball, found space and a seam to pass,” said Munger. “Once Graeme got the ball, he stayed on his feet under a heavy challenge and slotted home with a calm, cool finish.”

Stephenville 2, LHHS 1 Stephenville entered Monday’s game at Panther Stadium the No. 2-ranked boys’ soccer squad in Class 4A and as the fog and mist hung in the lights

above the pitch, the Yellow Jackets proved to be worthy of such a lofty label during a 2-1 victory over Liberty Hill.

Once the visitors had gone ahead on a 28th minute goal, which dribbled through the hands of Panther goalkeeper Uriel Diaz, they clamped down defensively and didn’t allow the home side any significant scoring chances.

However, earlier on inside the opening 20 minutes of the game, the Panthers were active in testing the Stephenville defense, as Gerald Shoetan, Rhett Hofmann, Hayden Ersham and Jaron Frye all sent shots goalward either from open play or free kicks.

But, the Jackets were resolute and in the 39th minute as halftime approached, they struck again with a low, hard shot that once again beat Diaz at his near post for a 2-0 lead at the break.

The second half saw Liberty Hill come out more determined and Graeme Nelson was the first to fire a shot at the target in the 50th minute, but it flashed wide of the net.

Shoetan then outsprinted a Stephenville defender down the right flank, winning a corner in the 52nd minute, but alas the attempt went for naught.

Finally, in the 62nd minute, leading scorer Frye picked up a ball in the Jackets’ area and managed to get off a shot from which eluded the Stephenville keeper, pulling the Panthers back to a 2-1 contest.

Mayson White was called for offside in the 72nd minute as the sophomore midfielder broke in behind the defense and Shoetan added a pair of shots in the dying moments, but the clock ran out as the Panthers mounted a furious last charge.

Munger said his club was in control early on, at least until the first Stephenville goal.

“We had a lot of possession of the ball in the first half,” he said. “But, then we started playing a little more aggressive and the second half was a lot better.”

Once the Jackets went up by two goals, their strategy changed, said Munger.

“Up 2-0, they weren’t going to take any chances, so they parked the bus,” he said.

After Diaz had conceded both goals, junior Alex Hernandez played the second half and was solid between the sticks, said Munger.

“We wanted to get our backup keeper some playing time,” he said. “Alex has really ed 3X Awaurd nity Comm Year of the

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inspired

good hands, especially in bad weather and did well in the second half – he deserved to be on the pitch.”

The Panthers’ second-half resurgence was encouraging for Munger moving forward.

“What that showed was when we play with the kind of quality we want to, no team in the state can beat us,” he said.

“Nobody likes losing, but especially at Liberty Hill, so I’m happy with how we responded today.”

Liberty Hill (3-3) will next play at the Wimberley tournament with games against La Vernia and Fredericksburg on Thursday, followed by Eastside Memorial on Friday and an undetermined opponent on Saturday.

GIRLS SOCCER Ladies win two of three at tourney

Last weekend, the Lady Panthers made the short trip to Glenn High School in Leander for the Grizzly Classic and came home with two wins in three games.

On Jan. 9, Liberty Hill opened the weekend against Leander and emerged with a 4-1 victory over the Lady Lions.

Emma Stephens opened the scoring with a goal in the 30th minute and the Lady Panthers took a 1-0 advantage into halftime.

When the sides returned to the pitch for the second half, it didn’t take long for the Purpleand-Gold to extend its lead, as Piper Tabor netted her fourth goal of the season in the 48th minute for a 2-0 lead.

Eventually, the Lady Panthers wore Leander down with their relentless possession game and Madi Fuller and Stephens tacked on additional goals in the 56th and 62nd minutes, respectively.

Liberty Hill head Coach Darren Bauer credited his team’s work rate for the dominant win.

“In the first half, we dominated possession and shooting, were in complete control of the game and we didn’t give up any shots,” he said. “In the second half, we picked it up even more.”

Highland Park 1, LHHS 0 On Jan. 10, Highland Park was the opponent and the result was a 1-0 defeat to the Lady Scots.

Bauer said the result would’ve been different if his club could’ve taken advantage of the opportunities they had throughout the game.

Thursday, January 16, 2020

SHANNON HOFMANN PHOTOS

Alyssa Lee (#15) passes the ball past a defender during a 4-1 Liberty Hill win over Leander on Jan. 9.

“We dominated possession and only allowed two shots, but one of them was a goal,” he said. “We could never capitalize on our chances.”

LHHS 1, Smithson Valley 0 On Jan. 11, the Lady Panthers reversed the previous day’s result with a 1-0 win against Smithson Valley on a Kassidy Contreras goal in the 68th minute – the freshman midfielder’s first of the season on an assist from Stephens.

Finishing the weekend on a winning note was critical for his club, said Bauer.

“We played some tough teams here,” he said. “So, getting the win over Smithson Valley after losing the day before gives us confidence moving forward in what we’re trying to do this season, which is win gold at state.”

Liberty Hill (4-1-2) will next face a road contest against Weiss on Jan. 17.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Lady Panthers beat Burnet, Lampasas

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Avery Harrell (#15) drives to the basket against a Badgers deNearing the end of the first fender. quarter of Liberty Hill’s home the way were playing, we were 3-pointers in all on the game. district opener against LampaRegan Walker, Madison more aggressive and really got sas on Jan. 14, the score was Walker and Baylee Laird each after them.” even at 7-7.

Lampasas could only manage had a pair, while Kailey Berzin But, then something quite readded one from distance. seven, five and seven points in markable happened.

Liberty Hill head Coach Chris the first three quarters, respecJessica Holliday hit a 3- to Lange attributed his side’s tively, until scoring 20 in the give the home side a 10-7 lead sharpshooting from beyond fourth, but the scoreline still and the Badgers didn’t score the arc to good ball movement. featured a 25-point margin of again until the score was 31-7 “It’s easy to make shots when victory. in favor of the Lady Panthers you move the ball as well as Liberty Hill lead 13-7 after after a 20-0 run, propelling the we were tonight,” he said. one period and 36-12 at the Purple-and-Gold to a dominant “Jessica has a real good eye for half.

64-39 victory over their neighRegan Walker and Laird each shooting and stepped up and bors to the north. shot well for us.” added 11 points, while MadiHolliday hit six threes on the The Lady Panthers employed son Walker had eight. evening on her way to a caHolliday said the decisive a smothering pressing defense reer-high 20 points and was throughout most of the game victory will help the Lady pleased with how she and her that left Lampasas struggling Panthers moving forward, but teammates played – especially to establish any kind of of- shouldn’t be taken out of conduring the big second-quarter fensive rhythm, a tactic that text. run. wasn’t originally planned “It’s a really big mo“I think it was a mix of good going into the contest, said rale-booster for us,” she said. defense and productive ofLange.

“But, it’s only one win and we fense,” said the junior point “We came out in a zone, can’t overlook anyone – we guard. “We used different which was the game plan be- just have to focus on our game presses.” cause they usually have trouThe Lady Panthers hit 13 See BRIEFS, Page B5 ble with it,” he said. “But, with

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Continued from Page B4

because we want to win district.”

Liberty Hill (15-13, 2-0) will next play at Salado on Jan. 17.

LHHS 46, Burnet 36 The only one thing bigger for the girls’ basketball squad on Saturday than the fact it was the district opener was it was against Burnet in their gym.

So, a 46-36 victory against the Lady Dawgs was exactly what the hoops doctor ordered for the Purple-and-Gold as Jessica Holliday and Kenzy

Wise each scored nine points to pace the Lady Panthers’ victory over their rivals.

At the outset, it looked as if the visitors would blow the home side out of the building.

Holliday hit a three on the Lady Panthers’ first possession of the game and after Burnet responded with a pair of buckets including a 3-pointer to take a brief 5-3 lead, Baylee Laird fired back for Liberty Hill with a three of her own to regain the lead.

After Kailey Berzin sunk a pair of free throws, Wise came off the bench and scored her first bucket of the evening on a strong drive to the basket off a pass from Brooke Wright and was fouled.

Wise completed the and-one, which was followed in rapid succession by an Olivia Shelton score and another Wise basket sandwiched around a Wright free throw, which completed a 13-0 Liberty Hill run and provided the Lady Pan-

thers with a commanding 16-7 lead after the opening quarter.

Madison Walker then drained a three to open the second stanza, which was followed moments later by another from sister Regan Walker and the lead was increased to 26-9 and the half ended with the Lady Panthers up by a score of 26-14.

Sydne Massoletti hit three consecutive Burnet buckets to open the third, cutting the lead to 10 points at 29-19, but Av-

Page B5

ery Harrell and Morgan Jackson hit back-to-back 3-pointers to quiet the hosts.

Holliday then hit from distance before Jackson chalked up another three and the Liberty Hill lead was 38-22 after three.

Burnet went on an 8-0 run midway through the fourth quarter to close the deficit to 41-33 with 1:17 left, but all they could do as the clock ran down was foul Liberty Hill players, leaving Holliday and

Laird to close the deal from the line.

In the absence of injured center Emma Hubbard, junior forward Taylor Swieczkowski got significant minutes and asserted herself physically, said Lange.

The Lady Panthers had eight 3-pointers in the game to only six two-point field goals, taking advantage of open shots from beyond the arc time and again and were 10-of-12 from the free-throw line.

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