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January 2026 | LHIndependent.com

A WISH COME TRUE Experienced restaurateurs bring new dining concept downtown

A New Year's message from The Liberty Hill Independent's publishers p. 7

Local equine businesses keep the country in Hill Country p. 8

News updates from across the community, including city and ISD p. 12

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CONTENTS FEATURES 7 | PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE Ringing in a new year with The Independent 8 | EQUINE OPPORTUNITIES Pair of local businesses offer unique horse services 10 | WISH UPON A BAR New establishment opens in downtown

11 | PROVIDING THE BOOM Liberty Hill inventor helps design Longhorns’ cannon 12 | NEWS ROUND UP The latest news stories affecting the Liberty Hill community

13 | TEN COMMANDMENTS LHISD named in lawsuit regarding Senate Bill 10 14 | KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE Liberty Hill Museum features displays, artifacts 15 | SWITCHING SPORTS Panthers senior will compete in track at Princeton 16 | ON COURT PRESENCE Lady Wranglers center provides skill, leadership 17 | GOOD START TO SEASON Lady Panthers open district schedule with victory 18 | CHAMBER CORNER Liberty Hill Chamber celebrates successful 2025

DEPARTMENTS 5 | BIZ BRIEFS Local business news for Liberty Hill 20 | COLUMN Recalling the dedication of the Gabriel Mills bridge 22 | LOCAL EVENTS Entertainment on tap for January

Independent

Together

ABOUT OUR COVER

Mike Farr, along with sons Dylan and Bradley Farr, are the owners of Wish Kitchen + Bar, the newest restaurant to open in downtown Liberty Hill. PHOTO BY RACHEL MADISON

LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT MONTHLY

A Publication of Liberty Hill Independent News & Media

OWNERS/PUBLISHERS | Scott Akanewich, Rachel Madison ADVERTISING SALES | Rachel Madison GRAPHIC DESIGN | Katie McLaughlin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Scott Akanewich, Jace Braziel, Abby Jenkins, Phoebe Johnson-Quaife, Rachel Madison, Brad Martin, James Wear

www.LHIndependent.com The information in this publication was compiled with great care to assure the accuracy of editorial content and advertising copy. Liberty Hill Independent Monthly and its parent company assume no liability for the accuracy of the information reported to us herein, and the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. For advertising rates and information, or to obtain additional copies, call (512) 778-5577 or send email to news@LHIndependent.com. This publication is truly a collaborative effort of experienced journalists, a professional design team, advertising specialists and many others passionate about sharing the story of Liberty Hill, Texas. Copyright©2026 Liberty Hill Independent News & Media/Liberty Hill Independent. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission in writing from the publisher. Contact Us: (512) 778-5577 | news@LHIndependent.com | Liberty Hill Independent, PO Box 204, Liberty Hill, TX 78642

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

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Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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WELLNESS & PREVENTION | DIAGNOSTICS | DENTAL & SURGICAL NEEDS

BIZ BRIEFS: What’s New?

Latest business news and what’s coming soon to Liberty Hill

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

• Scribble Land Studio Location TBD, Liberty Hill • Peak Play Bins Online, Liberty Hill • DELLO Pet Bakery Online, Liberty Hill • T Liquor 2021 Kauffman Loop, Liberty Hill

new convenience store development called Q-Mart, which is set to be located at 10280 W. Hwy. 29--the same address as Margaritas. A commercial demolition permit for Margaritas' playground, covered wood deck and canopies was approved in December 2025 to occur Jan. 5.

SERVICES

Elenita's

FOOD & BEVERAGE Elenita's 14251 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill A new food truck has opened at 14251 Hwy. 29, adjacent to P&R Propane, called Elenita's. It's run by the same family who owned and operated Elena's Mexican Restaurant, which closed in Liberty Hill last year after more than 20 years in business. The food truck serves breakfast and lunch and is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed Sundays.

ly-owned Latino grocery and specialty market now open in Liberty Hill. The market offers authentic Mexican and Central American products, including fresh produce, refrigerated items, snacks, drinks, tortillas, spices and household essentials. The owners aim to bring culturally familiar foods closer to home while serving and supporting the local community.

• Sai Gon Cafe 4732 Hwy. 183, Liberty Hill • Cowboy Crumbs Cookies Online, Liberty Hill • House of Desi 75 Seward Junction Loop, Liberty Hill

RETAIL Mercado Libertad 13750 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill Mercado Libertad is a fami-

Master Yang's World Class Tae Kwon Do 2021 Kauffman Loop, Liberty Hill Master Yang's World Class Tae Kwon Do is opening a third location in Liberty Hill in 2026. The first two locations, in Round Rock and Cedar Park, provides martial arts training for both children and adults.

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

• AAA Storage 4701 FM 3405, Georgetown • Oasis 29 8935 W. Hwy. 29, Georgetown • Pulsar Industries 249 CR 214, Liberty Hill • Perennial Roofing 295 CR 214, Liberty Hill • Silver Fox Partners 295 CR 214, Liberty Hill

Antena Kitchen and Bar 2082 Hwy. 183, Leander A new Indian-American fusion restaurant is set to open soon in the Shops at San Gabriel in North Leander. The restaurant is owned by Anil Annepu, who also owns Aroma in Round Rock.

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

Donnie Boerner Surveying Company Liberty Hill Donnie Boerner Surveying Company recently opened a new location in Liberty Hill, expanding on its original location in Comfort, Texas. The business offers professional land surveying services.

ON THE MOVE Mercado Libertad

Hey Lovely Boutique 2921 RR 1869, Liberty Hill (inside Radiant Salon & Spa) Hey Lovely Boutique is opening inside Radiant Salon & Spa this month, with a grand opening planned for Jan. 24 at 11 a.m. The boutique will be located in the original front area of the salon. Hey Lovely is an established online business. This will be its first physical location.

Margaritas/Time Out Sports Bar 12080 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill Margaritas has closed its doors in Liberty Hill. Time Out Sports Bar, located in the same building, has announced it will also cease operations at its current location, with its final day of business set for Jan. 4. According to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, a new Denny’s restaurant will occupy one of two lease spaces attached to a

Jennifer Pfeiler

Jennifer Pfeiler, Growing Heart Stonewall Ranch, Liberty Hill Liberty Hill resident Jennifer Pfeiler is the new executive director for Growing Heart, a local nonprofit that specializes in food assistance for those in need. Pfeiler will be heading up the organization's volunteer program, social media and more. The Iron Plate Training Ground 201 CR 214, Liberty Hill The Iron Plate Training Gym celebrated it first year in business in Liberty Hill in December. The gym is located within the District 29 commercial complex. Parker's Corner Market/Red Apple Smoke Shop 1017 Main St./923 Main St., Liberty Hill The buildings housing Parker's Corner Market and Red Apple Smoke Shop, both owned by Deva Holdings Inc., are for sale in downtown Liberty Hill. No development plans, future tenants or sale timelines have been publicly announced for either property. As of press time, both buildings remain actively listed. Vital Society 1735 N. Hwy. 183, Leander True Test Leander recently rebranded to Vital Society. The

wellness business, which offers hormone optimization for men and women among many other services, is still under the same ownership and will continue to offer the same services. Bertram First Baptist Church 325 S. Gabriel, Bertram A new classroom building is under construction at Bertram First Baptist Church. The new building is nearly 9,000 square feet and is expected to be completed by January 2027. Two Brand It 14262 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill The building housing Two Brand It is for sale for $1.25 million. According to First in Real Estate, the listing agency, the site is well-suited for a wide range of commercial uses and will allow its new owners to step into a ready-to-go business environment. Thirsty Mule Winery & Vineyard/Schitz Creek Distillery & Brewery 101 CR 257, Liberty Hill Thirsty Mule Winery & Vineyard, as well as its sister business, Schitz Creek Distillery & Brewery, are for sale by the owners, who are retiring. The asking price for the business, land, equipment, etc., is $5.3 million. The winery encompasses a 10,000-plus case winery, seating for 300, a tasting room built into a hillside, and a 12,000-square-foot production facility. OPENING A BUSINESS? JUST PROMOTED? MOVING LOCATIONS? SHARE YOUR BUSINESS NEWS WITH US! Email news@LHIndependent.com

Information gathered from the City of Liberty Hill, Liberty Hill Economic Development Corporation, TDLR, LoopNet and Williamson County ESD No. 4.

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J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

New year, same commitment to local journalism BY RACHEL MADISON & SCOTT AKANEWICH

OWNERS/PUBLISHERS

A new year invites reflection — not just on where we’re headed, but on what we choose to focus on. At The Liberty Hill Independent, we are entering the new year with the same core commitment we’ve always had: to provide accurate, fair and locally focused journalism for the Liberty Hill community. That commitment hasn’t changed. What has grown is how we deliver that news — and how many people we reach. Each month, The Independent reaches more than 14,000 readers in print, delivered free of charge throughout the community, along with countless additional readers online through our website, social media platforms and digital editions. There is no subscription required, no paywall and no barrier to access. That is intentional. We believe local news should be available to everyone — whether you’re a longtime resident, a new neighbor, a business owner or a student learning about the community you call home. Our monthly print newspaper remains a cornerstone — a tangible, trusted record of Liberty Hill’s growth, decisions and milestones. But local journalism today cannot live on ink alone. That’s why we continue to expand how news is shared. Our website provides timely reporting and deeper context. Our social media channels allow us to share breaking news, photos and community events in real time. Digital editions make it easy to read the paper anywhere, anytime. And in the new year, our podcast, Liberty Hill Sit Downs, is adding yet another way to stay informed. For many residents, life doesn’t slow down long enough to sit and read every

Odalis Suarez of The Independent staff, pictured above during the first filming session of Liberty Hill Sit Downs, is the host of the newspaper’s podcast. New episodes are launching in January 2026. PHOTO BY RACHEL MADISON

headline. Our podcast meets people where they are — in the car, at work or on the go. Hosted by The Independent staff member Odalis Suarez, the podcast expands not only on reporting covered in print and online, but also by allowing stories to unfold through thoughtful, long-form conversations. Guests include local leaders, business owners, organizers and community members, giving listeners direct access to the voices behind the headlines. While newspaper articles focus on delivering verified facts clearly and concisely, Liberty Hill Sit Downs provides added context, background and explanation — including the tone, nuance and perspective that only conversation can capture. The podcast is free and accessible, just like our newspaper, and is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Facebook. Listen or watch and let us know what you think at news@lhindependent.com. Additionally, alongside government and school coverage, in 2026 we’ll continue to expand features that highlight the heart of Liberty Hill. Our new restaurant reviews, beginning this month online, will highlight local businesses while also giving readers thoughtful, honest insights into the places that bring people together. Because our news is free, our advertisers and sponsors are not optional — they are essential. Local businesses and organizations who advertise with The Independent make it possible for us to provide community news at no cost to readers. Their support funds

reporting, photography, printing, digital tools and the staff who live and work right here in Liberty Hill. When a business advertises locally, they are doing more than promoting a service. They are investing in an informed community, transparent local government and a trusted local voice. It is a partnership that benefits everyone. Local journalism creates a permanent

record of a community — one that doesn’t disappear when an algorithm changes. City council decisions, school board votes, championship seasons, new businesses, community losses and celebrations — these moments deserve to be documented accurately and preserved. That history exists because someone shows up, asks questions and tells the story responsibly. That is the role of a local newspaper. As we begin a new year, we ask our community to take an active role in supporting local journalism. Read and share our stories in print, online and on social media. Listen to the podcast and engage with the conversations shaping Liberty Hill. Support the businesses you see advertising in our pages — they are helping keep your news free. If you own a business or organization, consider advertising or sponsoring coverage to help sustain independent, local reporting. Simply put, local journalism does not exist without local support. With your involvement, The Independent can continue to serve more than 14,000 households in print and countless readers online — consistently, responsibly and without a paywall. The platforms may grow or change, but the mission remains the same. And together, we can ensure that Liberty Hill’s stories continue to be told — this year and for many years to come.

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

BUSINESS

Keeping the country in Hill Country Local equine businesses thrive amid rapidly expanding footprint BY BRAD MARTIN

STAFF WRITER

Nowadays, as the distance between the metropolis and the country continues to shrink before one’s very eyes and the small town emerges into a destination of its own for those that once paid it no mind, the word “change” escapes every tongue of those who have witnessed the often unbelievable transformation in such a short period of time. But, just as people can change – all while remaining true to their core – Liberty Hill hasn’t changed as much as one might think. Though the roads keep expanding and the buildings keep rising, a look through the blur of those fast-paced thoroughfares will find those sprawling and tranquil country landscapes still thriving as they have for countless decades past. At the heart of any countryside community is a deep commitment to their most vital and trusted partner – the horse. Whether for pleasure or utility – and often both – horses have long been a staple in the Liberty Hill community and beyond. Though the big city mentality has obviously made its way into the narrative, there are still many who run active and successful equine businesses, keeping

the “country” side of things alive and well. Christina Rountree and Zara Conway are two shining examples of just how deep the commitment to all things equine can be. Rountree, owner of Equi-Vive: Equine Massage and Dry Salt Therapy, and Conway, owner of Lodestone Equine, both exude their love of horses and the results are in their respective, often complementary equine businesses. Rountree, a Liberty Hill native, has been around horses all her life. Though her days have long been spent as a successful bookkeeper and tax accountant, her love of horses has never faded. In fact, it only grew stronger, eventually guiding her to become a certified equine massage therapist. With her mission of “supporting the health and performance of horses through natural, holistic therapies” at her core, she has found a path to turn her love and commitment into an eventual full-time career through her healing and caring hands. From improved circulation and nutrient delivery to an increased range of motion and performance, her list of satisfied patients (and clients) continues to grow. Soon after her equine massage certification, Rountree became one of Texas’ only

Lodestone Equine hosts a diverse array of clinics, including health and wellness, trail riding, dressage and more. COURTESY PHOTO

Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Christina Rountree has spent her life around horses, and her unique health and healing services continue to provide a new sense of well-being to her clients. COURTESY PHOTO

equine practitioners to offer dry salt therapy, a long-utilized but lesser-known form of therapy with multiple benefits such as improved respiratory health, healthy skin and coat, improved oxygen delivery to muscles for stamina, faster healing and much more. She continues to witness firsthand the transformative results of the therapy. “I’m just fascinated with it,” said Rountree. “It’s great for respiratory issues and allergies; it will clear up welts and other irritations; and I have had 99 percent positive results and feedback from all the horses I’ve worked on so far.” Compared to breathing the salty, seaside air, Rountree converts salt crystals into a fine, airy mist and administers it to the horse via a specially made mask for the horse to breath in the mist through. Dry salt therapy has been practiced for well over a century, but many have never heard of it, especially in the equine industry, so Rountree has been pounding the pavement to help get the word out about this highly beneficial treatment – a testament to her deep love and care for every horse she helps. “This year, I’ve been doing clinics all over the place,” she said. “No one seems to have ever heard of this, so I’ve been able to share information on just how beneficial it is. I’ve been getting new clients from every clinic I do, so word of mouth has started to spread but I want to continue to reach more people.” One such location that one might find

these clinics is Lodestone Equine. Nestled just outside the heart of Liberty Hill’s Highway 29 corridor, this majestic horse boarding ranch makes it almost impossible to realize that it’s merely a few miles from the exponential growth currently underway. Built around the turn of the 19th Century, the facility is a horse’s paradise, complete with large open pastures, plenty of shelter and shade and the love and care of proprietor Conway. Conway, originally from the English countryside, has spent her life around horses and Liberty Hill was originally intended to be nothing more than a stop along her journey, but fate intervened, likely with the help of the century-old farmhouse and towering oak trees that have stood for generations. “I came to Liberty Hill to stay with some friends while in transit to moving to Bastrop, but I never left,” she said. “When this place came up, I embraced it with everything I had. It’s building into a really nice community of people.” Those who board their horses at Lodestone Equine are thankful for Conway’s decision to stay, as she isn’t running the typical horse-boarding facility. Proudly nicknamed the “No Rib Ranch,” she takes great care to ensure every horse experiences a stressfree, healthy and happy life amongst the serene landscape. From the large paddocks, oversized stalls and every other creature comfort a horse could ever want, no detail is

BUSINESS overlooked. “I feed three times a day,” she said. “I soak every feed, I do not limit forage – it’s all the hay they wish to eat, I do full care, which means I’m the one feeding and I go into each paddock to feed, so the horses get handled at least three times a day.” Conway’s love for horses can be seen throughout the place and most importantly, in each horse that is under her care. Currently a one-woman show, she hopes to bring on a select addition of clientele, ones that align with her “above and beyond” mindset and are looking to give their horse a fruitful life, in turn helping her bring on a helper or two that share her passion for horses. Conway and Rountree are both thankful for the Liberty Hill community and they both hope to increase awareness of their presence among the new hearts and minds that are added to the population on a seemingly daily basis. For those who are looking to escape the big cities in exchange for a more peaceful vibe, maybe they’ll revisit that childhood dream of having a horse of their very own and can rest well knowing that businesses such as Equi-Vive and Lodestone are ready to not only provide care, but to help them navigate horse ownership in

general. Or, for those who currently have horses and are looking to up their game in terms of home and care, those better options are closer than they think. “I like to grow awareness in this community because I’m from here,” said Rountree. “I know a lot of people here who are very down-to-earth and very kind. I would much rather grow within my community rather than travel outside of it to grow my business.” “I have mostly local people that have brought their horses here,” added Conway. “I do clinics here, which some people have traveled quite far to attend, so they get introduced to us and what we’re doing, opening the door for more people to know that we exist here.” Rountree and Conway often work together to provide clinics to promote their respective offerings, and many others can be found offering lessons in jumping, trail riding, dressage and more throughout each year. To learn more about Rountree’s massage and dry salt therapy services, visit equivive.com or call 512-630-1159. For inquiries about Conway’s boarding services, she can be reached at lodestonequine@gmail.com.

Zara Conway is a lifelong lover of horses, and her services expand far beyond the typical boarding facility. COURTESY PHOTO

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We are proud to have served Liberty Hill for almost 18 years! J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

COVER STORY

A hope, a dream, a Wish Downtown Liberty Hill’s newest restaurant opens its doors BY JACE BRAZIEL

STAFF WRITER

Everyone has a wish. Some people dream of riches, some of fame and others still of love. For Mike Farr and his sons, Dylan and Bradley Farr, their wish is more concrete than most. Nestled in the suite that formerly held the Whiskey Barrel Pub, Wish Kitchen + Bar is the newest restaurant to call downtown Liberty Hill home. For all the upgraded classics on the menu – think wagyu burgers, Korean wings – Wish offers just as many unconventional items. From a burger patty sandwiched between two pillowy glazed donuts to the famous potato pavé – more on this one later – the Farrs have broken the mold. But Wish didn’t appear out of thin air – as on-brand as that would be. It was the result of a family’s dream to own and manage a restaurant together, along with a bit of industry know-how. “We’ve always wanted to find something for us to all own and manage together,” said Dylan. “We’ve come out to Liberty Hill for years now. Our grandparents have lived out here for 20 years.” “There are these sites that list businesses and restaurants for sale,” added Mike. “I found this place on there a little more than a year ago. It took a little while to work out the details, but here we are.” Mike has been in the restaurant industry for a long time. He owned the iconic Nutty Brown Cafe and Amphitheater in southwest Austin before its move to Round Rock and is also cutting the ribbon on newer ventures, like Georgie’s in Georgetown. Every wish has its monkey-paw moment, though and this Wish is no exception. “We walked the place for the first time and… the kitchen’s all electric. We didn’t notice that,” said Bradley. “And then we ran into some issues with the water heater– we needed a bigger water heater to facilitate all the water around this place. This is something I never had to deal with before; I’ve just been behind the bar. Seeing the startup side of this business, it was a lot more than what I thought it was going to be.” As for where the branding came from, Mike takes pride in it being his idea. “I was out on my patio, and I saw a shooting star – this was 20 or so years ago – and I thought, ‘man, that would be a great name for a bar.’ I’ve opened places in those 20 years, but nothing ever really fit,” he said. “With this place, as cheesy as it sounds, one

of my wishes as a father was to be able to work with my sons and get to see them every day.” The restaurant leans hard into its branding. Pictures of fountains, ladybugs, eyelashes and clocks reading 11:11 line the walls. The bright decor contrasts nicely with a darker, more intimate lighting scheme, blending to create a cozy atmosphere. The shooting star of the show, however, is obviously the food. Many items, like the shrimp wontons, pay homage to some of Mike’s other restaurant ventures – that one in particular coming from the Nutty Brown Cafe’s menu. All of the other menu items have their own story, though. The aforementioned Korean wings, for example, as Dylan told The Independent, were a recipe from one of the cooks. “Everyone says they’re the best wings they’ve ever had. One of the cooks, Will, made that recipe years ago when he was younger for a cooking competition,” he said. Mike explains that another menu item is a sort of love letter to his wife. “We have this dish called ‘The Best Vegetarian Dish You’ve Ever Had,’” he said. “It’s a phyllo dough casserole with layered spinach, ricotta and pine nuts. Goat cheese, too. My wife doesn’t eat meat, and so over the years I always tried to find things to make that she’d enjoy. This one is really good.” One dish, though, is the signature Wish experience: a dish consisting of layer after layer of potato, butter, cream and Parmesan cheese, which is then baked, compressed overnight, and finally cut and fried. Without a doubt, said the three Farrs, the potato pavé is quintessential for the true Wish experience. “The potato pavé, it’s so unique, and people try it, and they say ‘wow, this is the best thing we’ve had in a very long time,’” said Bradley. “And the Calabrian aioli that we serve it with? Man, people really love that.” Getting the dish right was a real challenge, according to Dylan, and it took a lot of trial and error before adding it to the menu could be considered a reality. No matter their tastes, most everyone will find something on the menu that caters to them. Like a genie, it seems, Wish has the ability to make all your food and bar dreams come true. Thankfully, though, unlike a genie, you’re not limited to just three visits. Already conforming to the community-focused nature of Liberty Hill, Wish has made an immediate impact on local social

Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Mike Farr (above, right) and sons Dylan and Bradley (above, left and center) own and operate Wish Kitchen + Bar, the latest restaurant to open in downtown Liberty Hill. At right, Wish’s offerings include chicken fingers, Korean wings and more. PHOTO BY RACHEL MADISON/COURTESY PHOTOS

media. So far, the Farrs have relied entirely on word-of-mouth recommendations and Google reviews, which, as of the time of writing, are all five stars. “People come in, and they say they’ve heard so much about this place. We’ve been so fortunate to have our food be so well-received,” said Mike. Looking forward, the Farrs said there are no immediate plans for massive expansions of the menu or the business model. Instead, their first order of business is to ensure things run smoothly as-is, and then eventually extend their hours of operation. “It’s much easier to expand in success than contract in failure,” said Mike. “Every-

thing right now is baby steps. We’re gonna make sure we get this all airtight first.” Eventually, after expanding their hours of operation, their longer-term goals are to incorporate online ordering and run daily specials. Wish is located at 1004 Main St. and is open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 3 to 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Additionally, the bar at Wish remains open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. To learn more about Wish Kitchen + Bar, visit the restaurant on Facebook or Instagram or online at wishkitchenandbar. com.

COMMUNITY

Innovation at its finest Local product developer makes big contribution to University of Texas’ newest Smokey cannon iteration BY BRAD MARTIN

STAFF WRITER

It’s a well-known fact Bevo – famed mascot of the University of Texas Longhorns – resides in Liberty Hill and has for decades. But another connection to the Burnt Orange football program was recently made and it is the brainchild of Joe Pieczynski, a local product developer at the helm of Advanced Innovations, LLC. Pieczynski is tasked with designing and building the internal firing mechanism for the University of Texas’ new Smokey IV cannon. Anyone who’s ever been within earshot of a UT football game knows exactly how integral of a role the cannon plays, as it indicates another score and more points on the board. In an effort to streamline the process of loading and firing the cannon on gamedays, Pieczynski has enthusiastically answered the call to leave his mark on the storied athletic program. The story of Pieczynski’s journey to present day is a notable one indeed and the title of “product developer” doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of the now 67-year-old’s accomplished, diverse career. From cutting his teeth in machine shops starting at age 13, which led him to become known nationwide as a product development associate engineer with over 10,000 custom surgical instruments under his belt to his Guinness World Record for designing and building the world’s largest mechanical puzzle, he’d only just begun. After many other building blocks were

placed in his story, like seeing his design work featured in the original feature film “RoboCop” and building his own business, offering countless innovative products to his clients, he finally set out to accomplish a “bucket list” accomplishment inspired long ago in a machine shop lobby in New Jersey. It was there he was mesmerized by a miniature version of a Bridgeport mill, a must-have machine in any machine shop. Where a full-size Bridgeport mill stands over six feet tall, this one stood at only 11 inches and it was completely functional. It was then and there that a young Pieczynski vowed to listen and learn at every step so that he could one day build one of his own – and he has done just that and more. “It’s been a ride,” he said. “And now it’s time for the bucket list stuff.” With multiple 1:10 scale machine shop machines now complete down to the most unimaginably small and painstaking detail, Pieczynski is on a quest to build an entire miniature machine shop that will fit completely inside a briefcase. A quest like this is only reserved for those who have spent a lifetime perfecting their craft and seeing these finished products leaves very little room for words to describe their quality and accuracy. Not only are these machines aesthetically impressive and correct, but they are also fully functional. Somewhere along the way, Pieczynski decided to document these builds along with many other projects via his YouTube channel, aptly named Joe Pie. With millions of views and nearly 180,000 subscribers,

Liberty Hill resident Jim Pieczynski designed the internal firing mechanism for the University of Texas’ new Smokey cannon, which is used during Longhorns football games. COURTESY PHOTO

Joe Pieczynski, a lifelong product developer, has designed and built the internal firing mechanism for UT’s new Smokey IV cannon. COURTESY PHOTO

he has built a loyal and growing following. One such follower is Tom Lupton of Lupton Machine in Canyon Lake. Lupton is the custodian of the contract for the Smokey IV cannon’s internal firing mechanism and it was Pieczynski’s YouTube videos that eventually led to a working relationship, and Lupton knew that he was the right guy for the job. “So, for this new Smokey IV, he (Lupton) wanted me to design and build the firing mechanism that sets it off when they pull the ball,” he said. “This isn’t black powder; this is a sophisticated artillery piece.” Once Pieczynski delivers the finished product to Lupton, the clock will start counting down to a much smoother, efficient process for the men and women on the field in charge of loading and firing the cannon after each score. Though the cannon itself will be period-correct, the internals will be nothing short of a modern marvel. The crowd may never know, or even care, but Pieczynski will always remember the efforts required to make something so intricate operate so simply. “If this is the last thing that I ever do before I pull the plug, I’m good,” he said. “Because every time UT scores now and you hear ‘bang!’ and that puff of smoke comes out, I’m going to glow. I, my shop and Liberty Hill will forever be connected to that tradition.” Pieczynski has no current plans to stop, and his work continues to garner recognition. Product companies from all over the world send their products to him with the hope that he’ll review them on his YouTube channel, boosting their sales as a result. The most recent recognition has come in the form of a formal invitation to display his miniature machines at The Miniature Engi-

neering Craftmanship Museum in Carlsbad, Calif., which will allow the world to lay witness to his accomplishments – an amalgamation of his life’s work and dedication to the design, machine and manufacturing trades. “It is truly an honor to be invited,” he said. Craftsmen like Pieczynski are a rare breed, but they are one of the tightest-knit groups that spans beyond any border or language barrier. Though the trades may not be for everyone, to some, they are everything, allowing them to express their creativity through hand and mind. The world will always need innovation and every generation must participate in order to design and build a better, more efficient tomorrow. Those that came before Pieczynski understood this, and he hopes that there are those in line who understand the mission and are ready to receive the passing torch. “I believe if I was on stage giving a TED talk to a bunch of wide-eyed new people, I would tell them everyone learns at a different pace,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask as many questions as you have to until you understand the answer to that question to your satisfaction. And don’t be afraid to fail. With every failure comes a little bit more experience in what not to do and how to get the job done better. Treat every part like it’s the most important part of whatever you’re creating and never settle for second best if you’re striving for perfection. If you’re not happy with it, make it over. Like my apprenticeship mentor used to say, ‘Autograph your work with excellence and be proud of what you hand to the next person in line.’” The Smokey IV cannon will likely make its debut at the 2026 season-opening Longhorns football game.

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

NEWS

Read our round up to learn more about the biggest news stories affecting our community BY JACE BRAZIEL

STAFF WRITER

LHISD discusses academic calendar, attendance boundary updates

Liberty Hill Independent School District closed its doors for winter break following an eventful December. Updates were presented during regular and special meetings held by the Board of Trustees throughout the month regarding attendance boundaries, the academic calendar for the 2026-27 school year, and the lone finalist for the superintendent position. During the regular meeting on Dec. 15, the Board of Trustees received updates from Interim Superintendent Travis Motal regarding possible changes to attendance boundaries for schools within the district. In October and December, a committee of parents and administrators from various campuses met with district staff to discuss the process of amending the boundaries. The Attendance Boundary Advisory Committee reviewed demographic data and responses collected from a survey sent to parents to inform its decisions. Parents who responded to the survey indicated the district should prioritize maintaining balanced enrollment among schools rather than keeping students together from elementary through high school. The former received 58 percent of the vote, while the latter received just under 42 percent. Motal also explained that demographic changes played a role in the committee’s recommendations, with the district’s growth rate projected to slow to 5 to 7 percent over the next five years serving as a major consideration. “With all that information, we are processing where we’re going to be for the next couple of years as we open the next two elementary schools in ‘26 and ‘27 and continue our expansion projects,” Motal said. For high school attendance boundaries, the committee concluded that continuing to use U.S. Highway 183 as the dividing line was the best course of action due to

familiarity and projected growth favoring the east side of the district. Two plans were discussed for middle school boundaries. The first option is a true elementary feeder pattern, meaning Rancho Sienna and Tierra Rosa elementary schools would feed into Santa Rita Middle School, while Bar W, Santa Rita and Saddleback (opening fall 2027) elementary schools would feed into Legacy Ranch Middle School. Under this plan, the remaining elementary schools would feed into Liberty Hill Middle School. The alternative plan involves a Ronald Reagan Boulevard split. Under this cleaner geographic option, students west of US. Highway 183 would attend Liberty Hill Middle School, students east of Ronald Reagan Boulevard would attend Santa Rita Middle School, and students between the two roads would attend Legacy Ranch Middle School. As for elementary school boundaries, Motal said the committee has deliberated extensively, but a concrete plan has not yet fully taken shape. “It’s a lot to consider,” he said. “That’s really why we need a lot of input, so we can figure out the best way to do this.” The district will host two town halls to solicit community feedback regarding attendance boundaries. The first will take place at Liberty Hill Middle School on Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m., and the second will be held at Legacy Ranch High School on Jan. 15, also at 6:30 p.m. The academic calendar for the 2026–27 school year was also discussed during the regular board meeting. Motal presented results from a calendar survey made available to parents, staff and high school students. Nearly 60 percent of the 5,001 respondents were parents. A majority of respondents — 66 percent, or 3,306 people — preferred a nontraditional calendar featuring a four-day school week over the traditional schedule. An overwhelming majority of those surveyed also indicated a preference for a shorter first week of school, holidays aligned with federally designated holidays, and a pre– Memorial Day school year end date. “As we’ve always joked in the past, people

Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6

want to start late, end early and have all the holidays,” Motal said. “There is not a calendar that can meet those needs, so we’ve got to figure that out.” Motal told The Independent that final action on the calendar will not take place until February or March 2026, as the district plans to hold a midyear student survey to determine whether opinions change. Additionally, during a special board meeting held Dec. 17, the Board of Trustees deliberated before naming Motal as the lone finalist for the superintendent position. Negotiations regarding his official contract will continue into January, when his role will become permanent.

Liberty Hill City Council talks water during December

As 2025 drew to a close, the Liberty Hill City Council heard presentations regarding the Advanced Water Purification Facility, fielded concerns from residents of Butler Farms, and welcomed a new deputy city manager. During its first regular meeting in December, the council’s agenda was filled with updates related to the Advanced Water Purification Facility, or AWPF. Greg Swoboda and Jeff Meadows of Garver Engineering, the firm responsible for planning the AWPF, presented an overview of Phase 2B of the project. The overview included a revised timeline from previous presentations, with completion of the facility now expected in spring 2031 rather than the originally projected winter 2030. Garver’s presentation also confirmed that the pilot facility’s construction contract would be awarded to Archer Western, pending council approval. Bidding for the contract began in August following the completion of an effluent characterization process. A total of three firms submitted bids for the project. The updated timeline raised concerns among council members. “This is the first time I’m seeing us slide into 2031,” said Council member Diane Williams. “We have other things that are contingent upon [the AWPF]. Also, it says we’re going to have an October 2026 completion for the construction [of the pilot facility], but that seems a little tight. We really just need to start making sure that we’re removing obstacles to keep us on schedule.” City Finance Director Josh Armstrong explained that alternative funding for the pilot facility was necessary due to changing circumstances at multiple levels. “The original application for the Texas Water Development Board that was ap-

proved in September is still on the books,” Armstrong said. “But a lot has changed from the original application to where we are today. The TWDB needs us to provide some information from the EPA for our WIFIA funding. The government was closed during that time period, so this has been pushed back to 2026. Unfortunately, that timeline does not meet our needs for constructing the pilot facility.” Armstrong added that while this was a new development, funding from the TWDB and WIFIA — the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act — was never expected to cover the full cost of the pilot facility. A plan developed by Armstrong and city financial consultant Dan Wegmiller would provide the remaining funds through a bond sale, with proceeds expected to be delivered to the city in February. The council is expected to decide whether to move forward with the bond plan on Jan. 28, when an action item regarding the bond sale will appear on the agenda. “I share Diane’s sentiment,” said Council member Wade Ashley. “There are a million things that can throw this thing off schedule. Funding is one of those things. I would ask all of you as a team to take a good, hard look at all the different things that are going to throw this thing off track and update the schedule. We have other deals going on that are contingent on this.” Concerns over water availability extended beyond the dais, as residents of the Butler Farms subdivision addressed the council about their continued lack of reliable water service, with pressure readings often dipping below the state-required minimum of 35 psi. “One of the things that we’re getting concerned about is that with more buildings being put in, that’s going to put more of a burden on the water that we’re already not getting,” one resident said. “Every day, we have problems out there, and nobody’s looking into it, it seems to us,” another resident said. “We’d like someone to give us some answers.” Follow The Independent for a deeper look at residents’ concerns in an upcoming issue. Lastly, on Dec. 2, the city welcomed a new deputy city manager, Brandon Pritchett, who brings nearly 20 years of city and municipal experience to the role. Beginning his career as a water and wastewater operator, Pritchett’s background in utilities may provide a unique perspective on addressing the city’s ongoing water challenges. That position had been vacant since August 2025, when former deputy city manager Mike Etienne resigned.

EDUCATION

LHISD under pressure for posting of Ten Commandments displays District one of 16 ISDs to be named in most recent suit BY JACE BRAZIEL

STAFF WRITER

On June 21, 2025, Gov. Greg Abbott signed Texas Senate Bill 10 into law, requiring all Texas public schools to display the Ten Commandments in a clearly visible location within every classroom. Since its passage, the law has faced significant legal challenges, with numerous court cases being filed against various school districts across the state. In the latest of these lawsuits, Ashby v. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal ISD, Liberty Hill Independent School District is named as one of 16 districts acting as defendants. Filed on Dec. 2, Ashby v. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal ISD is a class-action lawsuit filed by parents of children enrolled in the 16 defendant districts. The plaintiffs argue that the Ten Commandments displays impose religious doctrine on students, and violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. They are seeking a temporary restraining order and/or a preliminary injunction against the named districts to take down such displays and to prohibit any future ones. In Stone v. Graham, heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1980, a Kentucky law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments was struck down on similar grounds. LHISD released the following statement regarding the lawsuit: “Liberty Hill ISD is aware of the

lawsuit filed regarding the display of the Ten Commandments. The displays in question were donated to a few of the District’s classroom/campuses and posted in accordance with the requirements established by the recently enacted state law. The District will work closely with legal counsel to review the lawsuit and respond through the appropriate legal process.” As the district finds itself embroiled in a legal battle, it also finds itself at odds with the wishes of many parents, like Liberty Hill resident Kimmie Fink. A former teacher of 13 years, Fink said she feels the posting of the Ten Commandments harms the learning environment for many students. “Students who are not in the Christian religious majority may experience ostracization and bullying,” said Fink. “They are also getting a daily visible message — posters must be placed prominently — that they are ‘other.’ Students who don’t feel welcome at school can’t learn. What is the goal of public education if not student learning?” Ashby v. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal ISD may be the most recent case, but two cases have already been brought before various courts in the same district — the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas — and been resolved. In the two cases, Cribbs Ringer v. Comal Independent School District and Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights ISD, judges ruled that the mandated displays are violations of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, and ordered the defendant districts to take them down. Plaintiffs in Ashby v. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal ISD cite those cases, as

well as the Stone v. Graham decision, by name in their complaint, pointing to a long line of judicial precedent on this specific matter. Proponents of the law, however, say that the displays are not strictly religious. Rather, they argue that the Ten Commandments have historical significance, as they served as a moral and legal basis for the nation’s founders. Parents like Fink, however, aren’t convinced. “The Commandments aren’t just a list of universal morals,” she said. “The first two are specifically about honoring and obeying the Christian God.” Legal precedent points to a potentially difficult fight for LHISD. So far, in every court case where SB 10 has been put to scrutiny, it has been ruled unconstitutional. Similar court cases in Louisiana, Arkansas and Kentucky have also followed such jurisprudence. Nevertheless, the district continues its compliance with the law.

“Those [injunctions] only apply to the school districts that are named, and we’re not named in any of those right now,” said Interim Superintendent Travis Motal. “So we’re following the state law, which is to post them. As they’re donated, we post them.” Fink told The Independent that, regardless of the outcome of the case, she hopes that district and state leaders recognize the purpose of public schooling. “Public schools are not Sunday Schools… As a parent raising children in the Catholic Church, I am adamantly opposed to the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms… We can look to Jesus as our example. Jesus didn’t bring people to him through mandates or coercion, but through love and acts of service,” she said. Ashby v. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal ISD is still ongoing, and in the very beginning stages. LHISD was served on Dec. 9 and an answer to the summons was due to the court by Dec. 30.

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COMMUNITY

Preserving the past

How the Liberty Hill Museum works to protect the city’s history BY JACE BRAZIEL

STAFF WRITER

As new buildings and developments sprawl outward and the city welcomes more and more new residents, the stories and sagas of Liberty Hill’s past seem to slide further into obscurity. For local Kandice Wright and her father, local historian Gary Spivey, the tragedy of losing those stories is simply an unacceptable outcome. Together, the pair collected their trove of artifacts and documents and founded the Liberty Hill Museum, which opened its doors in the fall of 2024. Spivey has always been generous with the family’s collection of historical items, lending many of them to the Liberty Hill Independent School District to help create their own historical exhibit in 2023, dubbed the Panther Museum. Never before, though, has the collection been so easily accessible to the wider public. Wright told The Independent the goal of

the museum is to showcase the many stories of Liberty Hill. “People think Liberty Hill really wasn’t getting started until the big boom happened a few years ago,” she said. “That’s just not the case. I mean, we used to have a college here.” Many of the stories Wright and Spivey tell sound almost unbelievable — that Liberty Hill was home to a college, the artist who started the sculpture symposium was a CIA asset, or the legend of the Lone Ranger was inspired by a man who lived in Liberty Hill — yet they have the records to back them up. “The most recent thing we found out was that the guy that the Lone Ranger was based on was from Liberty Hill,” said Wright. “His name was John Hughes — he had a ranch out here.” The museum itself is tucked adjacent to the Liberty Hill Public Library in Lions Foundation Park. An unassuming white building on the outside, the inside is split into two sections.

The Liberty Hill Museum was founded in fall 2024 with a mission of preserving local history, complete with displays and artifacts. PHOTO BY JACE BRAZIEL

On one end, exhibits, explanatory displays and collections fill a room that serves as a more curated experience. Whether you are looking for a compendium on the sculptures that call Lions Foundation Park their home or a selection of Panther yearbooks dating back over 50 years, the gallery side of the museum has you covered. “We have this poster that was hung up in my living room for my entire childhood, and I never paid much attention to it,” Wright said. “Come to find out it was from the Willie Nelson picnic [held in Liberty Hill in the 1970s].” That poster can now be found in the museum, as well. The other end of the museum is home to a dense archive. While the gallery will satisfy many’s thirst for a good story, others may be more interested in the more esoteric tales

of the past. For these intrepid go-getters, the museum’s archives offer a wealth of raw historical documents, books, newspapers (including old editions of The Independent), videotapes and much more. Spivey and Wright said they are more than happy to help dive into their archives to help curious individuals find whatever information they’re looking for. For now, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. However, Wright is hopeful expanded hours of operation will be possible in the future. For every incredible, unbelievable story about Liberty Hill’s past, there is another story waiting in the Liberty Hill Museum for the community’s residents. “The biggest thing for me is that I shouldn’t be the only one who knows these stories,” said Wright.

Included in the collection are Liberty Hill High School yearbooks and newspaper clippings of historic events. PHOTO BY JACE BRAZIEL

Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Switching athletic courses

PANTHER OF THE MONTH

Panthers senior trading football for track at Princeton BY ABBY JENKINS

they were really helpful, since you can’t get in even if you’re the best in the country without the academics. My parents have always hounded me about grades. They Before the sun’s up and long after the sun were both really good in school, as my goes down, Panthers senior Jett Harrison is dad went to [the University of Texas] and hitting the football turf and shot put dirt. [Texas] A&M with a doctorate. He’s always Now, Harrison’s long hours are coming been super big on grades with our family. together, with the signing of his letter of It’s never been about having the best grades intent to attend Princeton University to possible – it’s mostly about the expectation compete in shot put and discus next fall. of me.” According to Harrison – who was also Foster also had a joyful reaction to HarriLiberty Hill’s starting center on the football son’s academic achievements. team – following an adjustment to his “What an incredible, incredible opporthrowing methods, he quickly realized the tunity,” Foster said. “When you hear the resulting improvement in his performance name Princeton, everyone in the room could possibly be the platform that would knows it. There are so many names in the catapult him to the college level. world, but Princeton just carries some real “I started shot put in seventh grade weight.” since my brother was really good at it by If you’ve ever seen Harrison, the firemiddle school standards,” Harrison said. cracker No. 60 on the gridiron, you know “I switched my technique and when I did his love of that, I the game went of football. from 44 “I was recruited based on my shot put and discus marks The feet PR balance of to 47, and that’s obviously what got the coach interested.” offers for which is football a huge Panthers senior Jett Harrison and track improveweighed ment in on the dual shot put. sport athlete – something Foster is aware By the end of the year, I had hit 51 feet and of – and as a football coach himself, he sees when I hit it at district, I decided I wantall the balance in Harrison. ed to do summer track and I hit 54 feet, “He and I are super close,” Foster said. leading me to go to Nike outdoor nationals, “We spend so much time and these kids which was really when it clicked that I start to be your own kids almost and Jett’s could get recruited for this.” just such an energetic personality; you can Panthers head boys’ track coach Tommy just always hear him first. Anyone with Foster couldn’t be more thrilled about the pleasure of watching him throw can Harrison’s journey through the Liberty Hill just see his competition with himself and High School track program. the people around him. He’s so exciting to “Jett started the track program as a watch.” freshman – he was just immediately a suEven with the distraction of two sports, per-hard worker and through our process Harrison has now come to his decision. as a dual-sport athlete, he got really strong “Football has definitely gotten in my way, and quick and fell in love with the techbut it’s been great to build strength and nique of throwing,” he said. “From there, have that regimen of the weight room – it’s he grew and never stops learning how to built my strength and explosiveness,” he better himself.” said. “I don’t regret playing football at all, But with Princeton being an Ivy League though. I got my first offer for both track school, the question of grades still lingers and football my junior year at Harding in the commitment – something that’s not a University and it just didn’t feel right. I problem for Harrison, he said. was thinking I didn’t want to do football “I was recruited based on my shot put practice and games and do it for another and discus marks, and that’s obviously four years. It felt so much less enjoyable what got the coach interested,” Harrison without my brothers. So I focused more said. “My grades aren’t bad, around a 99.23, on track recruiting and now here we are – but they’re not Princeton level. I mean, Princeton.” people with perfect SATs get rejected. But, PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN

Panthers senior Jett Harrison will attend Princeton University, where he will compete in track at the Ivy League school. PHOTO BY ABBY JENKINS

Liberty Hill’s Jett Harrison (60) lead the Panthers onto the field before a game against Rouse this past season. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

WRANGLER OF THE MONTH

Lady Wranglers’ first varsity hoops center brings skill, leadership Sophomore provides low-post presence for Legacy Ranch BY PHOEBE JOHNSON-QUAIFE

EDITORIAL INTERN

As Legacy Ranch High School continues to grow, its athletic programs are expanding alongside it. With the addition of varsity competition for both girls’ and boys’ basketball, the school’s newest teams are already making their mark. Despite the challenges of building a new program, the Lady Wranglers varsity squad has risen to the occasion – led in part by sophomore Sari Green, who has emerged as a key contributor for the 10-player team, coached by Nicole Palmer. Known for her leadership and consistency, Green has set the tone both on and off the court. “On the court, my role is to be one of the main scorers,” Green said. “I try to lead by encouraging my teammates and helping everyone feel confident. Off the court, I

focus on building relationships based on trust.” Green’s leadership has not gone unnoticed and teammate Samantha Pickett praised her impact on the court, particularly in the post. “Sari’s physicality, rebounding and ability to finish inside give our team a huge advantage,” Pickett said. “She does the tough work in the paint that often goes unnoticed and it makes a real difference. Her strength and effort set the tone for all of us.” Green cites communication and versatility as her greatest strengths, noting her willingness to help wherever the team needs her most. Her basketball journey began in sixth grade after watching a team celebrate together following a win. Inspired by that moment, Green stayed with the sport because of the friendship and enjoyment found during practices and games. She credits WNBA standout Allisha Gray, the 2017 Rookie of the Year, as one of her biggest inspirations due to Gray’s defensive strength and playmaking ability.

Hospitality

Liberty Hill Independent Monthly | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 5

Palmer describes Green as a steady presence for a young team. “Sari is consistent with her work ethic, behavior and attitude,” Palmer said. “She never gets too high or too low, which allows her teammates to rely on her. Stepping into a leadership role without older players to look up to shows maturity, and that’s exactly what we need right now.” In addition to her athletic contributions, Green prioritizes academics, setting an example for her teammates and younger students. Looking ahead, Green has clear goals. “Individually, I want to be more confident on the court,” said Green, who plans to play basketball throughout all four years of high school and hopes to compete at the next level, while also staying focused on group goals. “As a team, we Legacy Ranch’s Sari Green (44) brings leadership and skill to the court for the Lady Wranglers hoops squad. COURTESY PHOTO want to make the playoffs for the values of Legacy Ranch and the promthe first time in school history.” ise of its growing athletic programs. Palmer offers advice to younger athletes “No matter how big or talented the other inspired by Green’s success. team is, anyone can lose,” she said. “You “Nothing is built overnight,” she said. always have to give it everything you have.” “But, consistency will always pay off.” Green echoes that mindset, exemplifies

SPORTS

Lady Panthers shut down Rouse in home district opener, 46-33 BY SCOTT AKANEWICH

person that’s hot.” Erps scored two of Liberty Hill’s first two baskets of the contest, bookending a 3-pointer by senior sharpshooter Reagan Robbins and After only leading by three points at halftime just like that the home side stormed to a quick of their home district opener against Rouse, 7-0 lead right out of the gate before going on to Liberty Hill put the defensive clamps on after lead, 13-9, after one quarter. emerging from the locker room in a 46-33 victoHowever, the Raiders tied the score at 15-15 ry over the Raiders. at the midway point of the second stanza before In fact, after having a 21-18 advantage at the Lexi Glenn hit a pair of free throws, followed break, the Lady Panthers shut Rouse out the by a bucket from Audrey entire third period in Richardson to restore outscoring them by a the lead and once senior 13-0 margin to increase forward Falon Stroup the lead to 34-18 made her first appearance entering the final eight of the evening off the minutes of play. bench and hit the final According to Liberty shot of the first half, the Hill head coach Brittany Lady Panthers led by the Barton, a strategic 21-18 margin they would switch was made that quickly increase with the enabled her squad dominant third-quarter to limit the Raiders’ display. opportunities. Stroup went on to add “We switched defensanother six points in es to try to get in the the fourth to finish with passing lanes and deny eight for the game, as the them the ball down low Purple-and-Gold cruised in order to put pressure for the duration, while on them to make Glenn and Richardson outside shots,” said added six and five points, Barton. “We wanted to respectively. eliminate their passes Liberty Hill’s Katelyn Olds (12) lines up a shot Erps said the third-pedown low and I thought during the Lady Panthers’ 46-33 home district riod effort was part-andwe did a great job of that win over Rouse. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO parcel for how the Lady – the girls responded Panthers usually operate really well.” after the half. Front and center in all this was junior center “Our third quarter is always our best one,” Kallahan Erps, who led the Lady Panthers she said. “We always come back out together with 17 points, while also denying her opposite and ready and having that energy really allowed number – Raiders center Alli Maley – offensive us to shut them down.” chances down low in holding the Rouse junior Liberty Hill (15-4, 2-0) – which defeated to only eight points. Leander, 75-28, in the district opener on Friday Erps said her own scoring success, as well as – then resume the league schedule at home neutralizing Maley, was simply a matter of being against Glenn on Jan. 6. aggressive. Barton – who recently took over on an inter“I know she’s pretty good,” she said. “So, I im basis after having started the season as an just started to take it to her the whole game and assistant – said it’s been a whirlwind few weeks outplay her.” since she moved over a seat on the bench, but Not only that, but after having already scored her team continues to move forward seamlessly. eight points in the first half, Erps took further “We’ve made a lot of adjustments, but our advantage of the favorable matchup by adding girls have responded well,” she said. “I’m another nine in the second half, including a definitely the kind of coach who’s going to be personal 7-0 run to open the third quarter – positive and always encourage them to be better something she said was made possible by the when they’re on the court. Also, having someunselfishness style of play she and her teamone that played at that level gives them the idea mates employ. I know what I’m talking about, so I think we’ll “Whoever we play, if we have a good matchhave a good run this year.” up,” said Erps. “We try to get the ball to the OWNER/PUBLISHER

Liberty Hill’s Kallahan Erps (32) led the Lady Panthers with 17 points in a 46-33 home district win over Rouse. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO

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J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

CHAMBER CORNER

Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce celebrates landmark 2025 BY STEVE SCHIFF

CHAMBER PRESIDENT

The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce concluded 2025 with strong momentum, measurable growth and a renewed sense of purpose. Over the past year, the chamber expanded its programming, strengthened partnerships and deepened its impact across the business community, nonprofit sector and local schools. Together, these efforts made 2025 one of the most successful years in the chamber’s history. One of the standout achievements was the continued evolution of the Women in Business initiative. What began as a small gathering of women business owners enjoying lunch and conversation has grown into a well-attended monthly event. Guest speakers now enhance each meeting, bringing insight, inspiration and practical knowledge to participants. Just as importantly, the conversations foster meaningful connections, promote professional growth and strengthen relationships with each passing month. The annual Savor Liberty Hill Gala once again proved to be a signature event for the

chamber and the community. Long after the evening concluded, the gala remained a topic of conversation, with many already looking forward to 2026’s event. Through the collective efforts of the planning committee, the chamber awarded grants to three local nonprofit agencies while still generating revenue to support future initiatives. The event also strengthened relationships with members and sponsors, reinforcing the chamber’s role as a trusted community partner. Monthly chamber networking luncheons continued to thrive throughout 2025, with steadily increasing attendance and increasingly dynamic speakers. Members consistently cited the combination of meaningful networking opportunities and engaging presentations as a key benefit of chamber involvement. These luncheons have become a cornerstone of the organization, offering a dependable forum for collaboration, learning and relationship-building. Another important accomplishment in 2025 was the significant improvement in relationships between the chamber and other city departments. Compared with one year ago, these partnerships have grown

stronger and more collaborative. The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce is now viewed as a preferred partner by many city organizations, opening the door to new opportunities and reinforcing goodwill throughout the community. The Jingle Bell 5K and 1K Fun Run also exceeded expectations in 2025. Once considered a small seasonal event, it has grown substantially, with 578 registered and paid participants in 2025. The event generated 25 percent more participant income than 2024 while continuing to strengthen community relationships and support the chamber’s mission. A particularly meaningful highlight of 2025 was the chamber’s ability to give back to local students. The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce awarded five $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors at Liberty Hill High School in May 2025. These scholarships reflect the chamber’s commitment not only to local businesses, but also to investing in the future leaders of the Liberty Hill community. Looking ahead to 2026, the chamber is building on this success with much to

anticipate. Continued membership growth remains a top priority, along with expanded programming and events. Mark your calendars for Women of Wilco on March 6, 2026, and the first-ever Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Business Expo, scheduled for Saturday, March 7, at the Ranch Camp in Santa Rita Ranch. Additional information on the business expo will be released in January. With strong leadership, engaged members and a growing calendar of events, the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce is well positioned to make 2026 even more impactful than the year before. For more information, visit the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce website at libertyhillchamber.org or scan the QR code.

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The Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome the f lowing businesses this month:

2nd Tuesday: Women in Business 4th WEDNESDAY: Networking Luncheon Check our events calendar for details

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COLUMN

Recalling the day the new bridge was dedicated at Gabriel Mills BY JAMES WEAR

COLUMNIST

Back in December 1987, I was among those to attend the dedication of a new bridge crossing the North San Gabriel River at Gabriel Mills, a small community located on CR 236. Among those attending the event were Harold Asher, a widely known educator who also earned acclaim for his historical research; Charley “Huldy” Mather, father of Liberty Hill residents James Mather and Debbie Rampy; and Audrey McAndrew Brizendine. Those three were to receive an honorary “first ride” across the bridge in a convertible owned by Madge McCormick Smith. All four of these folks were longtime residents of the area. Wesley Foust, then Williamson County Pct. 2 Commissioner, was on hand to snip the ribbon while Ed Brizendine served as master of ceremonies. Asher and Brizendine offered remarks and shared memories of the historical past of the Gabriel Mills

community. Sam Wayman, pastor of the Bertram Cumberland Presbyterian Church, provided an invocation while Morgan Clark, pastor of the Mahomet Christian Church, gave the benediction. At the time I was running a newspaper that served Liberty Hill and Florence and in the Dec. 2 issue of my newspaper I ran a front-page story about the upcoming dedication with a sidebar penned by Asher in which he wrote about the history of the Gabriel Mills community. His article follows: “The old Gabriel Mills bridge was built in 1893 by the Chicago Bridge Company to span the water of the North San Gabriel River. The bridge was dedicated with barbecue, speeches, a baseball game and horse races. Mr. Dave Hawkins used to talk about being at the dedication. He said he rode a bicycle from the lower picnic ground to the bridge with Dave Reed riding on the handlebars. Dave was a small boy then. “The great politician, orator, the elderly Cyclone Davis was making the dedicatory out on the bridge. The Hawkins lived LO C BE I ATE D RT N Y HI LL !

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Madge McCormick Smith provided the ceremonial first ride across the new bridge at Gabriel Mills in her convertible. Her passengers included Audrey McAndrew Brizendine (in front seat with Smith), Charley Mather (passenger side rear seat) and Harold Asher. PHOTO BY JAMES WEAR

nearby. The Tobe Reed family lived down on the Gabriel on what is known now as the Dennis place. “Mr. Tobe Reed and family moved to Bertram. He opened the large store and bank, where Mr. and Mrs. Bob Brewer are located today. Dave operated the bank for a while. Dave and Malcom moved to Austin and went into the cotton and cedar business. They soon became millionaires. Dave was killed in an airplane crash. “During the Great Flood of 1921, two sections of the old bridge were washed away. It was soon rebuilt and served until 1957 when another flood washed out the same two sections that were washed out in 1921. This time it was not rebuilt, but a low water bridge was constructed. This was never satisfactory, because during a rise sometimes traffic would be stopped for several days. “Gabriel Mills got its start in 1849 and was a thriving village for many years. The

first mill was built in 1852. In 1862 the mill was changed from waterpower to steam. A cotton gin was also added. Besides the mill and gin there were three stores, a post office, a blacksmith shop, Mt. Horeb Church, Mt. Horeb Masonic Lodge, a medical doctor and at one time a saw mill. The first store was a log cabin. “Gabriel Mills was also on the old cattle trail. Thousands of head of cattle passed through on their way to northern markets. The cowboys would stop by getting their supply of whiskey before proceeding on their way. “When the railroad missed Gabriel Mills and went by Liberty Hill and Bertram, Gabriel Mills began to decline. Today there is nothing left except the old graveyards, the historical marker and a beautiful new bridge.” Many of those who participated in the event have since passed on.

ExperienceLHTX.com J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

EVENTS CALENDAR 8 a.m. libertyhillsoccer.org

Ruach Barn

January 19

January 8

COFFEE & CONNECTION Urban Defense Academy & The Salt and Light Network 141 Jonathan Dr., Liberty Hill 9 a.m. facebook.com/ events/1806518190230812

January 9

RUACH BARN WEEKEND Ruach Barn 6560 CR 200, Liberty Hill 10 a.m.-5 p.m. instagram.com/ruachbarn

January 10

RUACH BARN WEEKEND Ruach Barn 6560 CR 200, Liberty Hill 10 a.m.-5 p.m. instagram.com/ruachbarn DAUGHTERS INC. SPIRITUAL GATHERING

Williamson County Cowboy Church 8355 RR 1869, Liberty Hill 7 p.m. daughtersincministry.com SATURDAY NIGHT KARAOKE Liberty Hill Beer Market 13851 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill 7-10 p.m. facebook.com/even ts/1290861412816876/12908614428 16873/

January 13

MUSIC BINGO Liberty Tavern 3000 RR 1869, Liberty Hill 7 p.m. libertytavern.co

January 17

POLAR PITCH 5V5 Liberty Hill Youth Soccer Association 251 CR 200, Liberty Hill

LIBERTY HILL REPUBLICAN WOMEN MEETING Jardin Corona 15395 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill 12-1:30 p.m. facebook.com/ events/1559798201930936

January 21

WEDNESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA Liberty Hill Beer Market 13851 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill 7-9 p.m. facebook.com/even ts/1393333915176201/139333391850 9534/

January 23

TRICK MYERS The Rabbit Hole 2082 N. Hwy. 183, Liberty Hill 8 p.m. rabbitholetx.com

January 24

3RD ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF WITH JASON KANE WHITE Fire Oak Distillery 4600 CR 207, Liberty Hill 1-7 p.m., $15

facebook.com/ events/1523054292314942 KIDS NIGHT OUT B3 Dance 101 Jonathan Drive, Liberty Hill 5-8 p.m. b3dance.com

January 25

COUSINS MAINE LOBSTER Tractor Supply 1919 Main St., Liberty Hill 11 a.m.-7 p.m. cousinsmainelobster.com/locations/austin-tx

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