May 2026 Liberty Hill Independent Monthly

Daring to Dream

BIZ BRIEFS:

What’s New?

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

FOOD & BEVERAGE

The Irish Reserve

Mobile, Liberty Hill

The Irish Reserve is a veter an owned mobile Irish pub serving the Austin area, bring ing an authentic pub experience to private events, weddings, and gatherings. Housed in a custom 8 by 20 foot trailer, it features traditional design and a two tap draft system for bring your own kegs. Offered as a dry hire rental, it includes optional add ons like a bartend er, seating, and yard games. The pub is delivered, set up, and can remain overnight for a seamless event experience.

Rodeo's Mexican Kitchen & Bar

13750 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

Rodeo Mexican Kitchen & Bar, sister restaurant to Marisol's Mexican Grill in Georgetown, will be opening in the former Bella Sera space in May.

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

• La Tequila Jalisco

13800 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

• Prose and Pints

1892 N. Hwy. 183, Leander

RETAIL

Liberty Hill Crossing

353 Hwy. 183, Liberty Hill

Two new businesses have been announced for Liberty Hill Crossing, where Target is set

to open in fall 2026. The first is Milano Nail Spa, and the second is Visionworks. The nail salon is set to open in early 2027, while Visionworks is set to open in November 2026.

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

• Rag & Relic Vintage Goods

1010 Hwy. 29, Bertram

• Blooms & Borrow Mobile, Liberty Hill

SERVICES

Stone & Miller Junk Removal

Mobile, Liberty Hill

Stone & Miller, a junk removal service operated by two local high school students, is now offering affordable cleanup services to the Liberty Hill area. The business emphasizes profes sional service and competitive pricing, and has already earned positive reviews from early cus tomers. Stone & Miller provides junk removal for residential needs and can be reached by call or text at 469 512 2280.

OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS

• Toss Boss CTX Mobile, Liberty Hill

• Texas Truck & Trailer

15600 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

• Avatt Services 12780 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

• CoreHaus Pilates

295 CR 214, Liberty Hill

ON THE MOVE

Pure Remedy Massage Therapy

100 Church St., Liberty Hill

The Pure Remedy team is growing with the addition of massage therapists Kyle Clark and Alyssa Mortensen. Clark brings more than seven years of experience in medical massage, specializing in deep tissue work. Mortensen, newly licensed, is already earning strong client reviews. Both share the practice’s focus on personalized, high quality care. Their addition increases appointment availability and expands service offerings to better meet a range of client wellness needs.

Liberty Hill Collective

10 CR 279, Liberty Hill

In response to the updated dis trict schedule, Panther House Friday School is transitioning to a new model: Liberty Hill Collective. The concept will create a community gathering space in downtown Liberty Hill, at the current location of Clean Slate Waxing Lounge. The Collective, opening in September, will offer a range of children’s programs, along with events and experiences de signed to bring families and the broader community together.

Watermark Arms

719 Hwy. 183, Liberty Hill

Watermark Arms celebrated its third year in business in April. The business also recently ex panded with a second location in Marble Falls.

The Standard on Vaughan

145 E. Vaughan St., Bertram

The Standard on Vaughan celebrated its third business anniversary in April.

Pedernales Electric Cooperative

10625 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

Pedernales Electric Cooper ative is planning an $8 million project at its Liberty Hill location. The project includes renovations to the existing warehouse and office building, along with construction of a new warehouse. Work is ex pected to begin in June with an anticipated completion date in

December. The upgrades aim to expand capacity and support continued operations in the growing area.

Main Street Marketplace

704 Main St., Liberty Hill

Main Street Marketplace has added new vendors, including Pearls & Satin, which offers hat bands and bandana charm necklaces, and Centex Living, which offers handcrafted wood burned planter boxes and raised beds.

Freedom Bikes

15399 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

Freedom Bikes celebrated its fourth year business anniversa ry in April.

Dana's Hair Salon

15500 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

(inside Wild West Salon)

Dana's Hair Salon is relocating back to Liberty Hill, inside Wild West Salon effective May 1.

Dana's Hair Salon was previ ously operating out of Salon 29 in Liberty Hill before moving to Georgetown.

Health Different Chiropractic

1900 Main St., Liberty Hill

Health Different Chiroprac tic is celebrating two years in business in May. A celebration will be held May 8 from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

Beauty Revival Barn

2921 RR 1869, Liberty Hill (inside Radiant Salon & Spa)

Beauty Revival Barn, which offers regenerative aesthetics and wellness services, recently expanded its space inside Radi ant Salon to offer more space and services to clients.

Bella Sera/Cherry Blossom

Massage

13750 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

Bella Sera and Cherry Blossom Massage, located next door to each other, have both closed permanently. Bella Sera's Mar ble Falls location remains open.

Liberty Hill Pool Service

295 CR 214, Liberty Hill

Liberty Hill Pool Service is opening a brick and mortar location at District 29. This new space will give customers

a local spot for pool chemicals, water‑testing support and essential supplies.

Growing Heart

220 Quarry Lane, Liberty Hill

Growing Heart founder Rachael Landers announced in April that the nonprofit organization would be closing its doors after providing food support services to the com munity for two years.

Susan Teves, Yesterday's Gone Liberty Hill

Susan Teves was recently announced as the new director of development for Yesterday's Gone, a Liberty Hill based nonprofit organization that provides resources to women leaving abusive situations.

Freedom Libations

15050 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill Freedom Libations celebrated two years in business in April. The liquor store is located in Panther Plaza.

LHISD approves teacher pay plan, raises for 2026–27 school year

BY RACHEL MADISON OWNER/PUBLISHER

The Liberty Hill Independent School District Board of Trustees approved a teacher compensation plan during their meeting April 20 for the 2026–27 school year, including salary increases and adjustments across the pay scale.

The plan includes at least a 3% increase at the midpoint and raises the starting teacher salary to $58,500. Adjustments will be made across all experience levels, with an emphasis on increasing pay as years of service grow. The updated salaries will take effect at the start of the 2026–27 school year.

District officials said the new pay scale is intended to place LHISD at or above the market median compared to 15 surrounding districts while maintaining a balanced budget.

“This is a direct result of our community passing Prop A in November,” Superintendent Travis Motal said in a press release from LHISD. “Because of this, we are able to make thoughtful, strategic investments in our teachers while maintaining the financial stability of the district.”

Voter approval of Proposition A in November 2025 provided funding flexibility that allowed for the compensation adjustments.

The district has also been working with an external firm to conduct a pay audit comparing salaries to surrounding districts. That review is expected to be

completed in May.

The April approval represents the first phase of a broader compensation review focused on classroom teachers. Additional recommendations for other staff groups are expected to be presented to the board in May.

“The Board is proud to approve a plan that reflects both our commitment to our teachers and our responsibility to the community,” Board President Megan Parsons said in the press release.

Project Grad reimagines senior celebration with scholarship initiative

BY LESHELLE VALLEJO STAFF WRITER

For years, Project Graduation has been a staple of senior celebrations in Liberty Hill—a safe, organized way for students to mark the milestone of graduation together. But for the Class of 2026, that tradition is taking a new direction.

In a move shaped by changing times and candid community feedback, this year’s Project Graduation board members have voted to shift away from hosting a traditional grad night event and instead introduce a scholarship-based essay contest aimed at directly supporting graduating seniors.

The decision didn’t come lightly.

“It all started with the board handoff,” said Project Grad board member Meghan Curtis. “It didn’t happen until late September, so once we took over, we were already months behind on fundraising and getting sponsors.”

That late start quickly revealed deeper challenges. Parent involvement was lim-

ited, with only a small handful attending initial meetings. At the same time, student interest appeared to be dwindling.

A survey conducted by school administrators showed just how much things had changed. Out of more than 550 seniors, only 48 responded—and among those, very few expressed interest in attending a traditional grad night event.

Historically, hosting Project Graduation comes with a significant price tag, typically ranging from $30,000 to $50,000. With limited participation, minimal interest and a tight timeline, organizers said it became clear that continuing down that path would be difficult to justify.

“It felt like an impossible amount of money to raise for what could have been only a dozen students in attendance,” Curtis said.

Even so, the effort to support seniors didn’t go unnoticed—and neither did the community that stepped up along the way.

Project Graduation did see success through local partnerships, including a

spirit day event at Two Brand It that helped raise a meaningful portion of funds. In addition, vendors at each home football game played a key role in supporting the initiative, including Cadillac Cookie Co, Cotton Candy Cowgirls, Joyfully Cut by Jen, The Treat Box and P&B Ice Cream.

Organizers said that support made a difference.

“We appreciate their generosity, especially during this time where local businesses are feeling the squeeze,” Curtis said.

At the same time, the board recognized a broader shift in how families celebrate graduation today. With relatives traveling in, parties planned and families eager to spend the milestone together, many seniors are choosing to celebrate at home rather than attend an overnight event.

“We want to support that,” Curtis said.

“Graduation has become a family-centered celebration, and we understand how meaningful that time is.”

Instead of trying to compete with those traditions, Project Graduation is leaning

into a new approach this year—one that offers a tangible benefit for students as they step into life after high school.

The organization will now award scholarships through an essay contest open to Liberty Hill High School seniors in the Class of 2026. The prompt invites students to reflect on a powerful question: “What does success mean to you?”

Scholarships will be awarded to the top three submissions: first place will receive $3,500; second place will receive $2,500; and third place will receive $1,500.

Winners will be recognized at the Liberty Hill High School Senior Awards Ceremony on May 20, 2026, with additional details to be shared in the coming weeks.

Organizers said the shift is ultimately about adapting to what today’s seniors need most—and ensuring that the effort behind Project Graduation continues to make a meaningful impact.

For questions, students and families can reach the Project Graduation board at projectgradlh26@gmail.com.

Finding her voice

Liberty Hill teen auditions for ‘American Idol,’ earns golden ticket

BY PHOEBE JOHNSON-QUAIFE EDITORIAL INTERN

For more than 20 years, ‘American Idol’ has aimed at discovering the next major superstar and has become a staple of reality television in the process, sending talented singers on the way to stardom.

Imagine, then, a small-town singer from Liberty Hill who could be on the verge of becoming the next sensation in music after appearing on the long-running show.

Look no further, because Megan Pearson, a local musician, made an appearance on the popular television series just this season.

Pearson is a junior at Liberty Hill High School, but in her free time, she explores her musical interests. In March, Pearson participated in ‘American Idol’s’ auditions and earned a golden ticket to go to Hollywood Week. Although the young singer wasn’t chosen to move forward past that round, the experience was still life changing for Pearson.

Not only is it impressive to be featured on ‘American Idol,’ but you also have to be selected for the audition process, Pearson said.

remember thinking to myself, ‘Yep, this is what I want to do with my life.’”

Pearson comes from a musical family. She began taking piano lessons at a young age, allowing her the ability to express herself through music. However, she developed a passion for singing only as she got older, she said.

“I didn’t develop a passion for singing until I was in sixth grade,” Pearson said. “I used to think singing was cringy, but I just slowly became obsessed with wanting to be really good at it.”

Pearson also shared her personal struggle with singing.

“I used to hate singing for others. When my family would get together, we would play music for each other, and I would never sing because I was too nervous,” she said. “It took lots of bribing from people, like my grandma, who believed in me, to get me out of my shell. I also practice so much, and I still practice putting myself in situations that help me learn as a musician, and through those experiences, I overcome the anxiety of performing.”

Pearson is also a songwriter. When it comes to writing and performing her songs, she dives into her inner self.

“I have to sit myself down and break down all the different pieces of the song,” she said. “Then I try to connect those emotions to my life or try to imagine the writer’s experience. Most of connecting with the audience is vulnerability and being willing to show emotion. Music is supposed to make you feel.”

All of these experiences and tools helped Pearson reach ‘American Idol,’ but when did she first know the show was where she wanted to go?

Pearson’s decision to respond to the audition request helped her step outside her comfort zone with people who share similar interests.

“My one goal when going on the show was to make a friend,” she said. “I made about 30 friends, who are all extremely talented artists. When we spent time off-camera together, we’d all meet up in the hotel banquet room, bring our guitars, sit in a circle, and just sing, dance and harmonize. That pushed me out of my comfort zone because I had never experienced playing with so many talented people.”

What’s next for Pearson after her time on ‘American Idol?’

She has original music set to release on streaming platforms, along with continuing live performances and sharing content on social media. Additionally, Pearson plans to attend Belmont University to further her study of music.

Breaking through barriers, she has achieved something unprecedented for someone from Liberty Hill. Pearson’s bravery serves as an inspiration for others to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new challenges.

“When I got the call I was on the show, I had full-body chills,” she said. “Music had always been just a dream, so when I found out, I felt so overwhelmed with excitement. I felt so secure knowing I found something that made me truly happy. When I walked on stage at Hollywood Week, the crowd was chanting and the lights were in my eyes. I

“Growing up, it was impossible to not know ‘American Idol,’ but I was never a die-hard fan,” she said. “I had seen a few episodes here and there with my family. I honestly had no intentions of ‘American Idol’ happening. One day, I just got a DM (direct message) asking me to audition. I almost ignored it because it was something so crazy I almost mistook it for spam.”

Reflecting on her journey, Pearson said perhaps the most valuable lesson she learned was about herself.

“After participating in ‘American Idol,’ I learned to have confidence in my voice,” she said. “I learned to be loud and to be myself. I discovered the importance of making the most of every moment and dreaming bigger, which ultimately shaped me as an artist.”

To younger aspiring singers, Pearson offers heartfelt advice.

“Put yourself out there,” she said. “Do what makes you, you. But also, at the end of the day, remember this is something you love, so don’t let anyone change that.”

To follow along with Pearson’s musical journey, find her on Instagram at @meganpearson_music.

Building community from the ground up

Mrs. Amy’s Adventures grows alongside Liberty Hill

BY LESHELLE VALLEJO STAFF WRITER

In a community growing as quickly as Liberty Hill, finding childcare that feels both trusted and personal can be a challenge for families. For Amy Payne, that need wasn’t just something she noticed – it was something she stepped in to meet.

Today, Mrs. Amy’s Adventures is doing just that, offering childcare built on connection, play and community just off State Highway 29 in front of Stonewall Ranch.

But like many small businesses in Liberty Hill, the business didn’t start in a brand-new building – it started at home. Payne and her family moved to the Liberty Hill area about a decade ago, drawn by the same small-town feel that continues to bring families here.

“We bought our house about 10 years ago,” Payne said. “At that time, I was running a licensed home daycare and just looking to expand and serve more families.”

What began as a home-based daycare in 2017 quickly revealed a bigger need.

“I ended up with a waiting list pretty quickly,” she said. “That’s when I realized just how much the community needed more childcare options.”

In early 2020, Payne signed a lease on her first dedicated space – just weeks before COVID-19 shut everything down.

“It was definitely crazy timing,” she said. “But it gave us the opportunity to slow down, renovate and really create the space we wanted.”

She officially opened that location in June 2020. A few years later, she took an even bigger step – purchasing land and building a facility from the ground up.

Now operating out of a newly constructed building at 12340 Hwy. 29, Mrs. Amy’s Adventures serves children from six weeks old through pre-K, with seven classrooms currently open. Even with that growth, Payne said the heart of the business hasn’t changed.

“I’ve always loved that more personal, athome feel,” she said. “Even as we’ve grown, it’s really important to me that we still build those relationships – with the kids, with parents, even with grandparents who

come in for pickup.”

That mindset traces back to her background – not just in childcare, but in community development.

After studying at Texas A&M University and spending time working in that field, Payne found herself pulled back to what had always been a constant – working with kids.

“I’ve worked in all kinds of childcare settings – corporate schools, private schools, even late-night care for hospital staff,” she said. “But I kept coming back to wanting something more personal, something connected to the community.”

And that connection shows up in everything – from everyday interactions to partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

At the center of Mrs. Amy’s Adventures is a focus on what Payne calls “whole child development.”

“We’re a play-based program,” she said. “We focus a lot on social-emotional development – helping kids learn how to communicate, how to work through their emotions, how to interact with others.”

While structured curriculum is part of the day, the approach is intentionally balanced, said Payne.

“I think it can be a little scary when academics are pushed too early,” she said. “We really believe in letting kids be kids and using those everyday moments to teach and guide them.”

It’s a philosophy that continues to resonate with families across the area.

This summer, Mrs. Amy’s Adventures is expanding its offerings with a multiweek summer camp program designed for children ages 5 to 10 – giving school-aged kids a place to stay engaged, active and connected while school is out.

The program will run throughout the summer with flexible weekly enrollment, allowing families to choose the weeks that best fit their schedules. Each week will feature its own theme, giving campers something new to look forward to as the summer progresses.

“We’re building each week around a different theme,” Payne said. “That allows us to bring in a variety of activities – STEAM projects, hands-on learning, and experi-

ences that keep the kids excited to come back.”

Beyond the classroom, the camp will include field trips and on-site experiences with local partners. One planned theme will focus on animals, including a visit to Texas Humane Heroes and opportunities for children to participate in a donation drive – introducing them not just to animals, but to the idea of giving back.

“We really want to tie in the community wherever we can,” Payne said. “It’s not just about keeping kids busy – it’s about giving them meaningful experiences.”

Families can register for individual weeks or commit to the full summer.

Payne said the flexibility was intentional, recognizing that many families juggle vacations, sports camps, and other summer activities.

With demand continuing to grow, Payne is already planning for what comes next. In addition to summer programming, she is working toward launching a private kindergarten program on-site – something she said has been a long-term goal.

“We’re really close,” she said. “I just want to make sure it meets every standard and truly prepares kids for what comes next, wherever their families choose to go.”

Like many growing businesses in Liber-

ty Hill, the journey hasn’t come without its challenges. For Payne, the biggest hurdle was building the new facility while continuing to operate her business day-to-day.

“Managing a construction project while running the school – it was a lot,” she said. “There were definitely moments of learning as we went.”

Still, those challenges are part of what makes the outcome so meaningful.

“I actually have a sketch in my office from when this was just an idea,” she said. “To look at that and then look around now – it’s pretty incredible.”

Just as important, she said, is the team that helped bring it all to life.

“We’ve had teachers with us since almost day one,” Payne said. “Seeing everything come together – the team, the families, the kids – that’s been the most rewarding part.”

For anyone considering starting a business of their own, Payne keeps her advice simple.

“Take the jump,” she said. “There are always ways to learn and resources out there. Even if it’s just a few steps at a time, just keep moving forward.”

To learn more about Mrs. Amy’s Adventures or to register for summer camp, visit mrsamysadventures.com.

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

BY LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT STAFF

LHISD approves book purchases, virtual program

As is the case for every public school district across Texas, the Liberty Hill Independent School District must adapt its policies in response to the ever-changing landscape of state legislation.

There are few months that better illustrate that point than April, with LHISD following through with the changes to the library book purchasing process outlined in Senate Bill 13, as well as piloting a virtual program, made possible by Senate Bill 569. Senate Bill 13, passed in August 2025, added new requirements to school districts’ library materials acquisition process.

To maintain compliance with the new law, a local school library advisory council (LSLAC) was created.

This council, made up of parents and staff, was tasked with reviewing the proposed list of new library materials for the opening-day collections at Legacy Ranch High School and Lariat Trails Elementary School.

The list consisted of over 11,000 books and was originally compiled by school librarians before being posted online for public feedback.

Members of the LSLAC then took that feedback, debated amongst themselves, and ultimately decided to recommend or not recommend specific titles.

The board took action during the April meeting to approve the purchase of the book lists as recommended by the LSLAC.

Another Texas Senate Bill, SB 569, was also discussed during the board’s monthly meeting.

This bill opens the door for districts to implement virtual learning options, granting new flexibility to how districts can offer instruction.

Under this bill, public school districts are now eligible to offer full virtual and hybrid programs, complete with funding structures and learning frameworks.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching

and Learning Dr. Heather Stoner spoke on why LHISD plans to explore a new virtual program in the wake of the bill’s implementation.

“Some students are not able to participate in the current programs that we have. This expands our offerings for students in our community and provides flexible scheduling. It also gives us an opportunity to provide credit recovery or acceleration –just really meet student needs.”

For now, the district is planning to start small, with the first year of the program only proposed to serve 10 students.

These students will be split between a hybrid program and a fully virtual program, and admission into the program will be highly selective based on academic history and student needs.

Lastly, the highly anticipated changes to the 2026-2027 bell schedules have not yet been finalized, as the district is awaiting data from the ongoing audit of bus routes and bus schedules.

Mr. Gatti’s still planned for Liberty Hill, timeline uncertain

Mr. Gatti’s Pizza is still planned for Liberty Hill, but there is no firm timeline for construction.

According to developer and real estate group Pohl Jensen. the organization still holds the rights to build Mr. Gatti’s locations in both Liberty Hill and Bertram, and the intent remains to move forward when the timing is right.

However, rising development costs have delayed those plans.

“We have plans to do it — we’re just evaluating for now,” said Jennifer Jensen, CEO of Pohl Jensen. “We have to be patient and wait for the right time.”

The Mr. Gatti’s project was first announced in March 2023, when Pohl Jensen shared plans to bring up to five Mr. Gatti’s locations to the Liberty Hill and Bertram area. That included a proposed 12,000-square-foot family entertainment center near the intersection of U.S. Highway 183 and State Highway 29, where Target and Costco are located, along with

smaller delivery and carryout locations in Liberty Hill and Bertram.

At the time, developers anticipated opening initial locations as early as late 2023 into 2024, but those timelines have since shifted. One such location was slated to be at 13740 State Hwy. 29 but was later decided against. Instead, Pohl Jensen revamped the space for their Liberty Hill office, which opened in 2025.

Target construction continues in Liberty Hill

The $22 million Target under construction near Costco is taking shape, with the approximately 148,000-square-foot store now expected to open in fall 2026 after supply chain delays. It was previously planned to open in summer 2026.

Despite local buzz, it will not be the largest Target in the world. That title belongs to a 204,000-square-foot store in Annapolis, Md. It is located inside the Westfield Annapolis Mall and first opened in 2002. A major expansion and remodel in 2008 brought it to its current size.

Still, the Liberty Hill location will be larger than a typical Target and is will also serve as a major retail anchor in what will be called the Liberty Hill Crossing shopping center along the State Highway 29 corridor.

Also already announced for the same shopping center are TJ Maxx and 7-Eleven.

City of Liberty Hill asks for community input for UDC rewrite

The City of Liberty Hill is updating its Unified Development Code (UDC), and community input is a key part of the process.

The UDC is the set of local rules that guide how land is developed in our community, from neighborhoods and businesses to roads, signage, and public spaces. It plays a major role in shaping how Liberty Hill grows and how our community looks and feels over time.

This update is about more than revising regulations. It is about implementing the vision outlined in Liberty Hill’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

The Comprehensive Plan reflects what the community said it wants for the future, a city that is connected, thoughtfully designed, and balanced in its growth. The UDC is the tool that helps turn that vision into reality by guiding how development happens on the ground.

By updating the UDC, the City is working to ensure that:

• New development aligns with the

long-term vision for Liberty Hill

• Growth supports a strong sense of place and community character

• Standards are clear, modern, and easy to follow

• Development decisions are consistent with community priorities

Community feedback helps ensure the updated code reflects the values and expectations of the people who live here. Whether it is housing, commercial development, or the look and feel of our streets and public spaces, your perspective helps shape the outcome.

Share your thoughts and help guide the future of Liberty Hill at fni.mysocialpinpoint.com/liberty-hill-udc.

The UDC rewrite will take place in phases, with additional opportunities for public input as drafts are developed and refined.

Multiple leadership shifts underway across LHISD campuses, departments

A wave of leadership changes across Liberty Hill Independent School District will impact campuses, central administration and district operations, with several key positions turning over ahead of the next school year.

Rachel Acosta, director of communications for LHISD, said affected campuses and departments will maintain continuity through the end of the current school year, while the process to identify new leadership has already begun.

LHISD officials said they have already welcomed Dr. Alex Salazar, who is serving as deputy superintendent, noting that his leadership and experience are helping guide the district’s ongoing work to build future-ready champions.

Several additional leadership changes are set to take effect in July as part of the district’s broader planning efforts.

Monica Miller, principal of Liberty Hill Middle School, and Brandi Pennington, principal of Tierra Rosa Elementary, are both transitioning from their current roles into district positions. Miller will move into the role of director of student and campus operations, while Pennington will serve as director of employee relations and performance management.

Principal positions at both Liberty Hill Middle School and Tierra Rosa Elementary have been posted as the district begins the process of identifying new campus leaders.

Acosta said the district plans to gather input from families as part of the principal selection process, including a parent survey to identify qualities families would like to see in future campus leaders. Additional

opportunities for stakeholder

At the district level, Kristine Kline, currently director of elementary education, will transition into the role of director of early childhood education. In that position, she will oversee prekindergarten programming, the Louine Noble Early Learning Center and early learning initiatives across the district. The move reflects a growing focus on early learning as enrollment and program needs expand, according to Acosta.

Rosanna Guerrero, chief financial officer for LHISD, is leaving the district to accept a CFO position with Hu o ISD. She will remain with the district through the end of June to assist with the transition.

The chief financial officer position has been posted, and district officials said they have already received a strong pool of candidates.

Earlier this month, Chris Rybarski stepped down as LHISD’s police chief, with his final day on April 10, a er accepting a new opportunity elsewhere.

Sgt. Jonathan Gardner is currently serving as interim chief of police while the district works to fill the role. The chief of police position has also been posted, with

officials noting strong early interest from applicants.

Acosta said the timing of the changes is intentional, allowing for thoughtful hiring processes and smoother onboarding ahead of the 2026–27 school year.

City of Liberty Hill holds UDC event, talks water rates, plans for future staffing needs

For the City of Liberty Hill, April brought an opportunity to chart a path forward and solicit community input.

Discussion around the city’s update to the Unified Development Code, water and wastewater rates, and staff compensation all took center stage.

While no UDC-specific items were brought before the council this month, the city held two events regarding the upcoming changes to the code.

These events were part of a plan outlined in a February council meeting, with additional funding allocated to the community outreach portion of the project.

The first event, a developer roundtable, called upon land developers and business owners to give their perspective on how particular changes to the UDC would help

or hinder their operations.

Following that, the city hosted an open house for members of the community to bring their ideas to the table.

“[The focus was] about keeping Liberty Hill’s charm,” said Katie Amsler, director of community engagement and communications. “Having uniform development along [State Highway] 29 and improving the quality of development.”

Water has been a topic of conversation in Liberty Hill for quite some time, and, although the Advanced Water Purification Facility (AWPF) is expected to bring an abundance of water to the city’s supply, availability is only ge ing tighter.

As outlined in a five-year plan presented in April 2025, rates for the water and wastewater utilities across Liberty Hill are set to rise.

This rate adjustment was set to be implemented following a public hearing held during the April 22 city council meeting; however, a discrepancy in the numbers between what was presented and what was shown in the proposal caused the council to postpone acting on the item.

The amended numbers will be brought before the council during their next meeting on May 13, whereupon an additional public hearing will be held.

“I would strongly encourage any residents, if you’d like to come and speak to this, the 13th will be your opportunity,” said Council member Wade Ashley.

The rates are expected to rise by an average of 10.5% and 6.5% for water and wastewater, respectively, and, if approved at the May meeting, will take effect in June.

In March, Deputy City Manager Brandon Pritche presented a plan to the council to institute new positions, such as a city engineer and an IT administrator, within city staff.

The reasoning behind the plan was to move certain services under the purview of an in-house office, as opposed to hiring out to a third party.

Following the same trend of moving to a more in-house model, the city council approved a compensation and classification study during their second April meeting. The study is expected to take anywhere from nine months to a year to complete.

The goal of the study, as noted in the agenda item’s documentation, is as follows:

“The study aims to identify optimal staffing levels, classification, and pay structures to ensure internal equity to a ract and retain talent, comply with applicable laws and support market-aligned compensation practices.”

COMMON SENSE CONSERVATIVE

Small steps, big faith: The story behind ‘Milah’s Miracle’

BY LESHELLE VALLEJO STAFF WRITER

What began as a backyard birthday party filled with laughter and splashing in a kiddie pool quickly turned into every parent’s worst nightmare — and ultimately, a story of resilience, rapid response and a community that showed up when it mattered most.

In 2022, Linda Huynh and her fiancé, Blake Faciane, moved to Liberty Hill from Memphis, Tenn., chasing a new opportunity and a fresh start. Within a week of arriving, they learned they were expecting their daughter, Milah.

“It was exciting and nerve-wracking all at once,” Huynh said. “We didn’t have family here, but we built our own village.”

For two years, Milah was a healthy, thriving toddler — hitting milestones, full of personality and always on the move. There were no warning signs of what was to come.

Then, on May 4, 2025, everything changed.

After a full day of playing at her father’s birthday party, Milah woke from a nap unusually fatigued. At first, it seemed harmless — just a tired toddler. But within hours, Huynh noticed something deeper.

“She didn’t want to stand,” Huynh said. “And as a mom, you just feel when something isn’t right.”

By the next day, Milah could no longer sit upright on her own.

The family rushed to the hospital — twice. The second visit would change everything. An MRI revealed that Milah had a spinal arteriovenous malformation, or AVM, a rare condition involving abnormal connections between arteries and veins along the spinal cord.

For the medical team, the urgency was immediate.

“She was a normal, happy child who developed symptoms very quickly,” said Dr. Kevin Kumar, Milah’s pediatric neurosurgeon at Ascension Texas. “That rapid progression is what made this case so concerning. We knew right away this wasn’t something minor.”

Within 24 hours, Milah was transferred, fully evaluated and in the operating room.

“Time is spinal cord,” added Dr. Elias Rizk, another one of Milah’s doctors at Ascension Texas. “The faster you diagnose and intervene, the better chance you have at preserving function.”

Milah’s case was not only rare — it was extraordinarily complex.

The malformation extended along multiple levels of her spinal cord, creating a delicate and high-risk surgical environment.

“The spinal cord is about the size of your thumb,” Rizk said. “And this malformation was essentially stuck to it — like trying to remove gum from hair without damaging what’s underneath.”

The challenge wasn’t simply removing the malformation — it was doing so without disrupting the healthy blood flow keeping her spinal cord alive.

“You’re essentially taking down abnormal vessels one by one while protecting the normal ones,” Kumar said. “The nervous system doesn’t tolerate mistakes.”

Cases like Milah’s are so rare that even experienced surgeons may only encounter them occasionally — and often in older patients, not toddlers. But what made the difference wasn’t just the procedure — it was the system.

“This is not something you can handle in just any setting,” Rizk said. “It takes a full team — specialists, imaging, anesthesia, rehab — all working together quickly and seamlessly.”

The surgery was successful, but the outcome was far from guaranteed.

When Milah woke up, she had lost movement in her legs and bladder control — realities that can often be permanent.

For nearly two months, she remained in

the hospital undergoing intensive rehabilitation — three hours a day, five days a week.

“We didn’t know if she would ever walk again,” Huynh said.

And yet, through it all, Milah never lost her light.

“At no point did she seem discouraged,” Kumar said. “That resilience — the way she showed up every day — played a huge role in her recovery.”

While surgery addressed the condition, much of the recovery came afterward.

“She did the hard work,” Kumar said. “Once those signals started coming back, it was her effort in therapy that brought her to where she is today.”

For Rizk, the case was also a powerful example of collaboration.

“This was teamwork at every level,” he said. “Everyone — from the surgeons to the rehab team — was committed to helping her reach her full potential.”

While AVMs are rare and difficult to predict, doctors said one thing remains consistent.

“We really trust parents,” Kumar said. “You know your child best. If something doesn’t feel right, that instinct matters.”

In Milah’s case, that instinct made all the difference.

While Milah fought in the hospital, Huynh and Faciane leaned on the community they had built in Liberty Hill.

Friends stepped in to care for their home, their pets and their day-to-day responsibilities — allowing them to stay by Milah’s side.

“That’s when we really saw what a village looks like,” Huynh said.

Inside the hospital, that same sense of support continued, forming bonds with nurses, therapists and staff who became part of their extended family.

Then came the breakthrough.

Shortly after returning home, Milah began to crawl — this time pulling her legs with her. By Halloween, she was walking with assistance. By December, she was walking on her own.

Today, just months later, Milah — now 3 years old — is walking independently.

“She’s thriving,” Huynh said. “In her mind, she’s already running.”

From a clinical standpoint, her outcome is extraordinary.

“She went from being completely unable to move her legs to walking again — and we were able to fully treat the malformation,” Kumar said.

Rizk added that Milah’s care was made possible through a unique partnership between Ascension Seton and Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin, which together support a highly specialized pediatric neurosciences program.

“That partnership allows us to combine a world-class research university with a well-established children’s hospital,” Rizk said. “It creates a center of excellence where we can provide advanced, cutting-edge care without families needing to leave Austin.”

Milah’s story has grown far beyond her family. Her journey was featured at a recent hospital gala, helping to raise more than $3 million for pediatric care.

Inspired by the support they received, Huynh created Milah’s Miracle, a mission focused on awareness, connection and giving back. She shares Milah’s journey on Instagram at @milahsmiracle.

For the doctors who treated her, Milah’s journey is a reminder of purpose.

“Cases like these are why we became pediatric neurosurgeons,” Rizk said.

For Huynh, it’s about perspective.

“We don’t take anything for granted anymore,” she said. “Even the smallest moments mean everything.”

In a town known for its heart, Milah’s Miracle stands as a powerful reminder of what can happen when faith, medicine and community come together — one step at a time.

How to be a tourist in your own hometown

BY LESHELLE VALLEJO STAFF WRITER

From Main Street strolls to Hill Country hikes, Liberty Hill offers the perfect weekend escape — no travel required. There’s something funny that happens when you live in a place long enough. You pass the same streets, wave to the same people, and say, “We should try that place sometime.” And then… you don’t.

But what if, just for one weekend, you changed that? Packed a bag, made a plan, and explored Liberty Hill like you were seeing it for the first time?

Welcome to Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 — where small-town charm, local flavor and hidden gems are closer than you think.

FRIDAY

Small-Town Charm & Downtown Discoveries

Start your weekend in Downtown, where Liberty Hill’s heart beats strongest. Stroll Main Street, browse locally owned shops and strike up conversations with familiar faces.

Kick things off at Forrest Coffee Shop, known for iced mochas, matcha drinks and fresh pastries — the kind of place that invites you to stay awhile.

Then step inside the shops you’ve been meaning to visit: Main Street Marketplace, The Vinew Shoppe, Blue Door Gift Store, Fletcher’s Florals, Simply Home Boutique, Two Brand It, Country Girl Consignment

and Blinded by the Light. By now, you’ve earned lunch at Dahlia Café, a local staple serving comforting, home-style meals. Order the chicken fried steak — and save room for buttermilk pie.

Afternoon Reset: Treat Yourself

Ease into the afternoon with a little selfcare.

For the guys: Community Barbershop, The Hair Stop and The Bearded Barber offer classic barbershop experiences.

For pampering: Signature Aesthetics, Royal Bliss Day Spa, Studio B, Radiant Salon & Spa, The Powder Room and The Luxe and Liberty Hill Beauty Bar.

Wrap up your day with chips, queso and a margarita at Jardin Corona, El Mariachis or Texas Taco Kitchen.

Staycation Mode: Sleep Somewhere New

Lean into the “tourist” mindset — don’t go home.

Stay local at River Ranch Inn, Leslie’s Liberty Bed & Breakfast, Casitas at Copper Ridge or Hometown Hideaway. Even a few miles can feel like a getaway. End the night with dessert from The Yogurt Experience, Sweet Retreat or Liberty Hill’s Dairy Queen.

SATURDAY

Adventure Awaits

Start with coffee or an energy drink from Mojo Coffee, then grab breakfast tacos from Boomer’s — because in Texas, some of the best food comes from a gas station.

Head just outside town to Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. At Doeskin Ranch, trails range from easy walks to scenic hikes like the Rimrock Trail, offering sweeping Hill Country views. Keep an eye out for native wildlife — and maybe the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.

Dinner, Drinks & Nightlife

Head back into town for dinner at The Standard on Vaughn, offering elevated dining with a local touch. If timing works, catch a performance at The Globe Theatre nearby. For something more casual, Liberty Hill Tavern and Liberty Hill Beer Market offer great food and an easygoing atmosphere. Before calling it a night, stop by Hill Country Tavern for a nightcap or live music. For a more family-friendly option, The Thirsty Penguin delivers good food, frozen treats and a relaxed vibe.

SUNDAY

Slow Down & Soak It In

Start your Sunday at Slot T Beer Co., a local favorite with deep ties to Liberty Hill football. Enjoy a drink, share appetizers and settle into the laid-back atmosphere.

Then head to Wetzel Park, where the free splash pad makes it a go-to for families. Bring a blanket and let the kids run free.

For more water fun, visit the Liberty Hill Swim Center for a classic summer afternoon.

When hunger hits, try Wish Kitchen + Bar and its famous hangover burger on a donut — or keep it classic at Agape BBQ.

A Quick Escape: Hill Country Wine

For an adults-only outing, take a short drive to Thirsty Mule Winery for tastings, scenic views and a relaxed Hill Country vibe.

Don’t Skip the Food Truck Scene

One of Liberty Hill’s most underrated experiences is its food trucks. Scattered throughout town, they serve everything from tacos and barbecue to sweet treats and late-night bites.

It’s casual, local and part of what makes being a tourist in your own hometown so much fun.

The beauty of Liberty Hill isn’t just in its growth — it’s in the details. The businesses, the people and the places we pass every day. So this summer, don’t leave town. Just see it differently.

Because sometimes, the best getaway is right outside your front door.

Panthers’ state title defense ends in regional final

Liberty Hill was defeated, 3-1, by Pieper

BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER

One thing was certain when Liberty Hill and Pieper took the field at Bob Shelton Stadium at Hays High School in Buda in the teams’ Class 5A Division II regional final.

Purple-and-Gold would prevail.

Unfortunately for the defending state champions, though, it was the San Antonio version that came out victorious over the Hill Country colors, as the Panthers were defeated by the Warriors by a 3-1 score that ended their season.

After not having conceded a single goal through the opening three rounds of the postseason – featuring a dramatic penalty-shootout win after a scoreless draw through regulation and extra time on the very same field in its first-round win against Champion – Liberty Hill was victimized three times in the return visit.

According to Panthers head coach Stefano Salerno, Pieper presented his squad with the toughest challenge it had faced so far –not only in the playoffs, but over the course of the entire campaign.

“Offensively, they’re the best team we’ve encountered this season, along with Cedar Park,” said Salerno. “Most teams, you can shut down one or two guys and that’s it, but this team has a third, fourth and fifth that will attack you.”

From the outset, it was clear the Panthers were in for a rugged night against a Warriors side that was physical, moved the ball around well and created scoring chances, with Liberty Hill goalkeeper Angel Cardenas forced into his first save of the evening in the eighth minute.

Later, in the 15th minute, Cardenas was tested yet again from close range and was equal to the task in making a point-blank save, only for the ball to ricochet off a second Pieper player and roll across the goal line for a 1-0 lead.

Only seven minutes later in the 22nd, the Warriors doubled their advantage when once again Cardenas made the initial save, but was beaten by a follow-up chance, the result of Pieper’s relentless crashing of the Liberty Hill goal.

Finally, in the 25th minute, Panthers senior David Candia had Liberty Hill’s first good look at goal, but flashed a shot wide to the right.

But, the best opportunity for Liberty Hill to halve the deficit before halftime was in the 28th minute, when Danny Gutierrez had a shot denied by the Pieper keeper, then fellow senior Vance Stanley was also kept out a split-second later on the second of back-toback, rapid-fire saves and the Warriors held the same 2-0 lead at the half.

Once the second half began, the Panthers were more on the front foot in creating several offensive chances in the opening minutes and Zeke Gracia scored off a Gutierrez corner in the 48th minute to cut the Pieper lead in half.

Salerno attributed the momentum swing to a strategic shift that had taken place during the first 40 minutes.

“We had a formation change about halfway through the first half – a 4-3-3 high press we stuck with to start the second half,” he said. “We got that goal, but then had to go all out to get back and conceded the third goal.”

But, just 10 minutes later in the 58th, a Warriors player was brought down in the area and awarded a penalty that was capitalized on to restore the two-goal lead at 3-1.

As the clock continued to tick down on their season, the Panthers threw everything they had at the Warriors, but to no avail as they were unable to crack a resolute Pieper defense further.

On the last play of the game, Cardenas lofted a goal kick far down the field with Logan Bruno in pursuit and for a moment it looked as if the senior center back would have a chance to get on the end of it, only for the ball to be secured by the keeper after all and in doing so, dropped the curtain on the Panthers’ season.

Liberty Hill finished the season with an overall record of 16-9-3 to go with an 8-4-2 district mark that was good for a second-place finish.

Salerno saluted his players in the aftermath by highlighting their accomplishments to this point.

“I can’t thank my players enough for everything they’ve done the past three years,” he said. “With these guys being able to play in 12 playoff games, all the way to the state final last year and the regional final this year – that doesn’t happen with a lot of teams. We wanted a different outcome, but soccer can be cruel at times – we gave everything we had and have no regrets.”

Demars’ grand slam highlights

Lady Panthers win over Hays

Liberty Hill defeated the Hawks, 8-7

BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER

The ball arched high into the evening sky with a light breeze at its back off the bat of Avery Demars before just clearing the leftfield wall during Liberty Hill’s home district matchup against Hays.

The result being a grand slam in the third inning that sparked the Lady Panthers to an 8-7 victory over the Hawks in the penultimate contest of the regular season.

Demars’ moonshot provided the home side with a 6-3 advantage in a game that see-sawed back-and-forth between the teams until the Purple-and-Gold held off the visitors with solid relief pitching from freshman Brehna Havelka, who pitched the final 5 2/3 innings.

According to Demars – who added an infield single, a stolen base and a running catch in foul ground down the right-field line – she wasn’t necessarily looking for the long ball at that point in the proceedings.

“I was just trying to get the ball in the gap,” said Demars. “I didn’t know it was gone, but I was hoping and praying on the

way to first base.”

Hays had taken an early 3-0 lead with a pair of runs in the top of the first and a single marker in the second against Liberty Hill starter Hadley Gray before Havelka was summoned and inherited a one-out, bases-loaded situation in the second before inducing back-to-back fly-outs to end the inning without further damage.

Liberty Hill head coach Kristen Brewer said Havelka‘s ability to mix up her arsenal enabled her to keep the Hawks’ hitters guessing.

“Brehna’s done well for us all year,” she said. “She did a really good job changing speeds with her pitches and keeping them off-balance.”

Kyrinn Vaughn ripped a bases-loaded, 2-RBI single in the bottom of the second to get the Lady Panthers on the board, trimming the deficit to a run at 3-2.

After Havelka worked around a two-out walk in the third, Hadley McBeath and Macee Walters each singled and Makayla Mendoza drew a base-on-balls, which set the stage for Demars’ big blast and a 6-3 lead.

However, right when it seemed as if Lib-

erty Hill had seized momentum, the Hawks came flying back in the fourth by plating three runs to tie the score at 6-6.

In the bottom half, Maddie Kingslien doubled to left-center, then scored on a Haley Frederickson RBI single for a 7-6 lead.

Still, more offense was needed, though, after Hays once again tied the score at 7-7 in

the sixth and it was Kingslien who smacked her second double of the night to lead off the bottom half, then came around to score the eventual game-winning run on another double by McBeath to go ahead once and for all.

All that was left was for Havelka to close the deal in the top of the seventh and she began by getting two outs on two pitches on a pop-up to McBeath and a grounder to third that was expertly fielded by Bella Nicholson, who fired over to Walters at first before the game’s final out settled into the glove of center fielder Vaughn on a fly ball to punctuate the win.

Demars said it was a good sign to edge out a close game against the Hawks after having lost the first meeting by a 2-1 score.

“Definitely a big momentum change for us, seeing we lost to them the last time,” she said. “We know in big games we can push together as a team and come out winning.”

Brewer said she had a bit of a premonition Demars was in for a big performance.

“Funny, I told Avery she was due and was going to hit a home run,” she said. “She had a game tonight.”

Liberty Hill (23-7, 10-3) clinched the district’s No. 1 seed in the Class 5A Division II playoffs.

Following last season’s loss to Rouse in the regional finals, Brewer is expecting big things from her squad in this year’s postseason also.

“We’re always looking for a long playoff run,” she said. “But, we definitely need to be on our ‘A’ game.”

Setting the standard on the diamond

Wranglers baseball laying foundation for success

BY PHOEBE JOHNSON-QUAIFE EDITORIAL INTERN

The Legacy Ranch baseball program has proven tremendous success in its inaugural varsity season, placing second in the district with a 10-2 record.

Their phenomenal performance in district games has landed them a shot at the playoffs.

The Wranglers are led by head coach Emery Atkisson and assisted by Mike Cockerill and Jeffrey Maddox. In addition, the junior varsity squad also held an impressive season record, earning a district championship.

The program runs solely on one word — standard. The word, commonly tagged in their social media posts, means much more than the Google definition, Atkisson said.

“#STANDARD means ‘Do the best you can in all you do all the time,’” he said. “Our program is built on our ability to be in control of our attitude and effort before we can control our performance on the field. As long as everyone in our program does their absolute best, we will put our team in a position to be successful.”

Up and down the roster, each player has a role, and understanding that role is vital.

Sophomore pitcher/outfielder Blake Deshazo is one of those players who has bought into the concept.

“The biggest reason my teammates and I can keep balls from getting past us in the outfield is our communication,” he said. “Playing in larger stadiums makes communication even more important. We consistently practice calling for the ball so that, in games, it comes naturally.”

Landon Richter, a sophomore shortstop and pitcher, said playing multiple positions provides additional insight.

“Playing both shortstop and pitcher definitely gives me an understanding of the field,” he said. “It allows me to communicate better with my teammates during high-pressure moments because I understand the needs of the positions. I can understand the needs of my teammates on the field and provide guidance for them, which is important when things get rocky.”

Wranglers sophomore second baseman

Landon Dyer takes an attention-to-detail approach at the plate.

“Being disciplined at the plate helps tire out pitchers by forcing them to throw pitches and making their pitch count go up,” he said. “This forces them to throw more pitches in the zone when you don’t swing at pitches out of the zone, allowing for more hits as a team and tiring them even more. This helps the team by helping us get through their better pitchers, so we see other pitchers that our team can score more off of.”

According to Atkisson, much of the formula for success is attributed to being ready in advance of crossing the lines.

“There’s a lot of planning that goes into every game,” he said. “We’ll take advantage of whatever each respective game gives us. However, we always pride ourselves on being aggressive, controlling the tempo of the game and supporting each other through the ups and downs of competition.”

The Wranglers have a young team with promising players who have made an immediate impact, and the program will continue to grow and improve with the players’ consistent contributions to their own success.

However, a young team poses challenges, Atkisson said.

“The two biggest challenges we’ve faced are teaching our players what it truly looks like to compete and handle failure,” he said. “With all of the dynamics of athletics, oftentimes teaching student-athletes how to manage failure and compete relentlessly goes untaught. We have made every attempt to challenge our players daily to provide them with the mental fortitude to compete at a high level.”

Despite the Wranglers’ rough start to the season, with losses to formidable teams like Brandeis and Belton, they adjusted to the high-pressure environment of varsity competition, which propelled them up the district rankings.

Atkisson said he can look back on the campaign with pride, knowing the program is headed in the right direction moving forward, with Class 5A on the horizon next year and the rigors and challenges that come with moving up a classification.

“Looking back at our program over the

last few months, we have made strides not only in our athletic performance, but also in the way our players handle the daily grind of being part of a successful team,” he said. “We’re organized, structured and team-oriented. I imagine we’ll only get better and better as our players continue to mature and develop.”

Panthers finish off regular season with loss to Cedar Park, 8-6

Liberty Hill clinched No. 1 playoff seed with 10-4 district mark

BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER

The Panthers closed out their regular season at home against Cedar Park with an 8-6 loss to the Timberwolves, but despite having to settle for the series split against its district rival, Liberty Hill still secured the No. 1 seed in the opening round of the Class 5A Division II playoffs next week.

Carson Sharp had a pair of hits for the Panthers, including a home run, but it wasn’t to be against the visitors, who launched a pair of long balls in the first inning off Liberty Hill starter TJ Dominguez for a quick 3-0 lead.

However, the Purple-and-Gold responded in kind in the bottom half, plating a pair of runs on an RBI single off the bat of Jaxson Richter that scored Journey Lowery, who had led off with a base hit and a passed ball that brought home another marker to make it a 3-2 contest after one.

After Cedar Park once again extended its advantage with another two runs in the second, Dominguez was replaced on the mound by Tristan Trader, who got the final out of the inning on a fly ball to center and ended up hurling 3 2/3 innings, while only allowing one run.

Liberty Hill head coach Stephen Johnson said Trader’s effort in stemming the Timberwolves’ tide helped get his team back into the contest.

“Tristan hasn’t had a whole lot of opportunities to pitch this year, but when he’s come in he’s done a great job,” he said. “Which he did again tonight in allowing us to battle back into the game.”

With Cedar Park leading 6-3 entering the bottom of the fourth, the Panthers played some small ball to cut back into the deficit.

After Colton Carpenter had drawn a leadoff walk, Brady Gage laid down a perfect bunt up the first-base line that moved the runner to second, while beating out the throw to first for an infield hit, then stole second to set up second-and-third for Caleb Calvert, who first watched while Timberwolves starter Dom Naylor balk home a run before lifting a sacrifice fly to cut the lead to 6-5.

Following that display of station-to-station offense, Sharp blasted a home run leading off the fifth to finally bring the Panthers level at 6-6.

Johnson said he always knows exactly what he’s getting from his senior catcher.

“Anytime Carson steps into the box, he’s capable of putting one out,” he said. “He’s a

leader for his team, does a great job behind the plate and shuts people down on the mound when we need him to. We’re very happy to have him and will miss him bigtime next year.”

But, the deadlock was short-lived, as the Timberwolves scored a pair of runs in the sixth off Richter – who had relieved Trader with one out in the inning – ultimately proving to be the final margin.

Liberty Hill (20-9-1, 10-4) will open the playoffs against a yet-to-be-determined opponent from District 26, but regardless of who provides the opposition, Johnson is confident in his club.

“I think we have a great chance – we brought back a bunch of guys from last year,” he said, of a Panthers team that advanced to the state semifinals. “If we get hot at the right time, we’re certainly capable of

going an another run.”

Johnson also highlighted the season-long effort of senior pitcher/first baseman Jordan Andrews as one of the critical ingredients for potential postseason success.

“Jordan’s been phenomenal for us all year,” he said. “We know whenever we hand him the ball, we have a chance to win.”

In addition, Johnson said the Panthers’ offense has broken a few late-season bad habits and is coming around at exactly the right time.

“I’m proud of our bats the last couple of games,” he said, including Tuesday’s 6-4 road win over Cedar Park. “At the end of district, we were hitting the ball hard, but right at people and striking out a bit too much. But these last couple games, we did much better with runners in scoring position, so I’m very excited moving forward.”

Forming connections with LHHS students, Chamber of Commerce

BY STEVE SCHIFF CHAMBER PRESIDENT

Students who enroll in Entrepreneur I and II at Liberty Hill High School o en expect an easy, “check-the-box” elective.

Instead, they encounter a program that operates more like a launchpad for ideas, ambition and real-world growth.

The classroom is anything but traditional—it’s a space where creativity meets accountability, and where lessons extend well beyond graduation.

The environment reinforces this mindset from day one. Inspirational messages line the walls, encouraging perseverance and reminding students that what they learn has lasting value. The focus is not just on starting a business, but on building a foundation of skills that translate into leadership, career readiness and life.

The program is led by Steve Schiff, who brings experience from Procter & Gamble and multiple entrepreneurial ventures.

Now in his third year teaching, Schiff blends structured curriculum with first-

hand insight. His approach combines the essential components of building a business with practical, real-world experiences, giving students a perspective that goes far beyond theory.

This becomes especially evident during the annual Entrepreneur Showcase, where student teams present fully developed business concepts.

The program begins with a “bug list,” where students identify everyday frustrations and turn them into potential opportunities. From there, they conduct market research, analyze competitors and form teams with defined roles such as CEO, CFO and marketing lead.

As their ideas evolve, students learn to understand their customers, develop marketing strategies, source production and build financial plans, all while working collaboratively in a team environment that mirrors real business operations.

A key differentiator of the program is its strong connection to the local business community through the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce. Chamber

members play an active role by visiting classrooms, mentoring students and sharing real-world insights.

This partnership gives students direct exposure to local entrepreneurs and business leaders, helping them be er understand what it takes to succeed in their own community. It also reinforces the idea that their work in the classroom has relevance beyond school walls.

Communication is another major area of growth.

Many students begin the program hesitant about public speaking, but through consistent practice and interaction with guest speakers and community business mentors, they build confidence and presence.

By the end of the course, students are able to clearly articulate their ideas, pitch their businesses and engage with an audience—skills that are essential in any profession.

Support from the Liberty Hill Education Foundation further enhances the program. For the past three years, grant

funding has been awarded to top teams at the Entrepreneur Showcase, allowing students to take their businesses beyond the classroom.

These funds support next steps such as forming LLCs, securing legal guidance, producing prototypes and developing marketing materials.

All of these elements culminate in the Entrepreneur Showcase, a ‘Shark Tank’style event held May 4, 5 and 6 at the Liberty Hill High School Performing Arts Center.

Open to the public, the event highlights not only student businesses, but also the confidence, professionalism and growth developed throughout the program.

What begins as an underestimated elective becomes a transformative experience—one that connects students to their community and equips them with the skills and mindset to move forward with purpose.

To learn more about the upcoming Entrepreneur Showcase, visit the Chamber’s website at libertyhillchamber.org.

CHAMBER CORNER

Smith never quit in effort to fi nd Bear Creek gold

BY JAMES WEAR COLUMNIST

Treasure hunting has always fascinated the human race and locally, perhaps one of the most determined treasure hunters was a fellow by the name of Jessie Smith.

Jessie, who died in 1974, is said to have spent the last two years of his life digging for a legendary seven jack loads of gold ore near Bear Creek on the old Elmer Hyden place out off County Road 200.

According to a story appearing in the Dec. 9, 1976 issue of The Libertarian, Jessie, 74 years of age at the time, would “lower himself down a cavernous hole to search for the treasure. Digging at least 25 feet in one place, using only a crowbar and the shell of a Model T headlamp, Smith never found his treasure, but his faith in in its existence was contagious.”

The story, wri en by staff writer Robin Stringfellow, noted that Smith dra ed Elmer Hyden, Mark Hyden (Elmer’s son) and Raymond Hodung to help him blast the hole with dynamite.

Mark, who has since passed on as has Elmer, was quoted in the story as saying, “We just wanted to please him.”

At the time Mark is said to have believed there was treasure on the property.

Stringfellow’s article described what Smith used as a gold-finding detector: “a roll of quarters ($13 worth) taped to a long chain with a $10 gold piece dangling from one end.”

“It would swing back and forth and when it began to go around in a circle, that meant gold or silver near,” Mark was quoted as saying. “Sometimes Jessie would have me hide some

coins out there and he would try to find them, most times he did,” adding; however, “I always thought he might have been peeking just a li le.”

According to Stringfellow’s article, Smith is said to have believed Union soldiers buried the shipment in a cave below Bear Creek.

According to legend, Confederate soldiers captured the Yankee pay train, but before being captured the soldiers had secretly hidden the gold.

The article noted Smith had lived in a shack for more than a quarter of a century before moving into a trailer house on the Hyden place.

Historians say Smith, in his younger days, was a baseball player with the late Judge D.W. Hays (former mayor of Liberty Hill) among his teammates.

Jessie Smith was one of 10 children born to James and Callie Smith, who were among early se lers in the Shin Oak Ridge area. Jessie was born in Briggs.

EVENTS CALENDAR

May 3

THE MARKET LHTX

FIRST SUNDAY POP-UP MARKET

McCoy’s 2505 RR 1869, Liberty Hill 10 a.m. themarketlhtx.com

May 6

WEDNESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA

Liberty Hill Beer Market

13851 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

7-9 p.m. facebook.com/even ts/1593572278508198/159357232184 1527/

May 8

STAR PARTY – BRING THE MILKY WAY HOME River Ranch County Park

194 Reveille Way, Liberty Hill 8:30-10:30 p.m. facebook.com/ events/1325291006089807

CHRISTIAN FAMILY BARN DANCE

Williamson County Cowboy Church

8111 RR 1869, Liberty Hill

6:30-10 p.m. facebook.com/even ts/967862855922150/967862865922 149/

JAKE PENROD WITH THE STEEL BELTS

Globe Theatre

132 W. Vaughan St., Bertram 8-10 p.m., $30-$233 globetheatretx.com

May 11

WCMG MONTHLY CLASS: LIVING WITH WILDLIFE AND WELCOMING WILDLIFE TO OUR GARDENS

Williamson County Master Gardener

100 Wilco Way, Georgetown (Georgetown Annex)  6:45-8 p.m. txmg.org/williamson

May 14

LIBERTY HILL PRO RODEO

Harvest Ranch Arena 8355 RR 1869, Liberty Hill 5 p.m. libertyhillrodeo.com

May 15

LIBERTY HILL PRO RODEO

Harvest Ranch Arena 8355 RR 1869, Liberty Hill

9 a.m.

libertyhillrodeo.com

ELLA REID

Liberty Hill Beer Market

13851 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill

7-10 p.m. facebook.com/ events/2038029457096484

May 16

LIBERTY HILL PRO RODEO

Harvest Ranch Arena 8355 RR 1869, Liberty Hill

9 a.m. libertyhillrodeo.com

WHIMSY & WONDER

Downtown Liberty Hill Main Street 6-10 p.m. experiencelhtx.com

May 17

LEGACY RANCH HIGH SCHOOL

BARBECUE COOK-OFF

Santa Rita Middle School

90 Santa Rita Blvd., Liberty Hill

11 a.m-4 p.m. mmartin@2215@gmail.com

May 23

BLOOD DRIVE

Cross Tracks Church

101 Church St., Liberty Hill

10 a.m.-3 p.m. redcrossblood.org

SOUR BRIDGES WITH THE POSSUM POSSE Globe Theatre

132 W. Vaughan St., Bertram 8-10 p.m., $25-$233 globetheatretx.com

May 30

BOOT ROCK BOYS

Liberty Hill Beer Market

13851 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill 7-10 p.m. facebook.com/ events/837074152739548