Liberty Hill Digest • February 2021

Liberty Hill digest

FEBRUARY 2021

IN THIS ISSUE

So much to celebrate...

Happy Birthday Liberty Hill | Celebrating 22 Years American Heart Month | Hagler Ranch Longhorn Beef is Heart Healthy Bus Driver Appreciation Day | LHISD Loves Their Bus Drivers F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 1 ï‚« L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

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FAVORITES 12

WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS” Cowboy Boots

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WORTH THE DRIVE Hagler Longhorn Ranch

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY Vaccine Update

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FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Heartfelt facts

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BELLE CHIMES IN “Unity” I Can Appreciate

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FOOD Healthy, Simple & Delicious

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PARTING SHOT Water Tower Lights Up

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER: On January 21, Liberty Hill celebrated the 22nd anniversary of its incorporation as a city. Mayor Liz Branigan joined Communications Manager Katie Amsler and Community Engagement Officer David Joiner for a socially-distanced public celebration in the parking lot at the Willie Nelson water tower. Photo by Lauren McAndrews.

FEATURES 4 BUS DRIVER APPRECIATION DAY We Love Our School Bus Drivers

8 COMMUNITY ACTION

Liberty Hill Community Resource Center

WILCO VACCINES

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During the clinic at the Sun City ballroom Jan. 21, County Judge Bill Gravell chatted with Wilco resident Diane Snyder, who received her first dose of the vaccine. She says her arm is sore, but that was to be expected. “It was not hard to sign up and the whole process was well done.” Ms. Snyder is already scheduled for her second dose Feb 18.

LOCAL HEROES 100 Black Men of Austin

photo courtesy Hagler Ranch

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WORTH THE DRIVE

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Hagler Ranch Longhorn Beef

18 GOOD, AND GOOD FOR YOU Texas Longhorn Beef F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 1  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

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Digest Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

ANN MARIE KENNON EDITOR’S NOTE While we could argue the last nine months have felt like the movie “Groundhog Day”, we can officially celebrate the real thing this month.

PUBLISHER

Cathy Payne

Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing.

She found her voice and fulfilment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Liberty Hill Digest, Cathy oversees multiple magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ann Marie Ludlow Kennon With a quarter-century of writing, reporting, and marketing behind her, Ann Marie enjoys sharing her vision and voice with a Central Texas audience. She believes being involved in and writing about local communities is the best way to show her affection and appreciation of everything Texan.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charlotte Kovalchuk • Miranda Bradley • Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • David Valdez • Todd White Charlotte Kovalchuk SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES Debbie Tolliver

Also worth celebrating is the letter I received from a reader, Alice Stephens. She shared that she was uplifted by a previous issue and wanted to do the same for us with her Christmas letter. She, in turn, inspired us with the perseverance and goodwill she and her husband maintained all year.

Thanks, Alice!

To celebrate Black History Month, get to know 100 Black Men of Austin. These inspiring grass roots benefactors have been making an impact in many parts of our county for years, and I’m glad we are able to spotlight their mission to help young people “become what they see” in their mentors.

It is also American Heart Month, and I am encouraging everyone to celebrate with some Longhorn beef from Hagler Ranch. One of the perks of being an editor, sometimes, is folks allow me to try their product or service so my stories will be authentic. After trying some of Mr. Hagler’s ground beef, I can assure you that our “Worth the Drive” feature may feel effusive, but it’s totally true.

In between, we’ve included some much needed love in the form of giving our seniors their shots. So, here’s to the end of Winter, the goodness of community servants, to your health, and so much more in February.

ADMINISTRATION Kristina Poché DISTRIBUTION David Schumacher IT/WEBMASTER Jesse Payne CONSULTANT W. Ben Daniel ADVERTISING Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-746-4545 mark@lhtxdigest.com

Liberty Hill Digest is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication.

Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved. Liberty Hill Digest is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Liberty Hill, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to Liberty Hill Digest, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537.

Email: info@lhtxdigest.com

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Never let it be said I’m not totally committed to our content!

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education

by Ann Marie Kennon • photos courtesy Meleia Cox annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

We Love Our School Bus Drivers

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ebruary 22 is National School Bus Drivers Appreciation Day and Liberty Hill is celebrating the 41 professionals who transport the most precious cargo to and from school every day.

Kids know the drivers are there to make sure they get to and from school safely and on time. Parents are assured that once their kiddos leave home for school, they are in good hands.

The ISD knows they are mentors, guides, and so much more. In light of this job description, Liberty Hill ISD is taking an entire day to celebrate the work and impact these drivers have on the community.

BY THE NUMBERS For this school year, the district has 49 buses, ten of which are brand new, thanks to a replacement grant, and plans to buy two more to accommodate the ongoing growth in the district. Director of Transportation Meleia Cox (pictured) says, “While it can be a challenge to get the kids to wear them, all of our new buses have a seatbelt for every rider, and we have wonderful bus monitors and aides who assist kids who need help.”

She also praises the students’ Smart Tag system, which allows the driver and the school to pinpoint exactly what time and where a student got on and

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off the bus. “Sometimes you call the name and the student thinks he or she is in trouble and won’t answer. Our drivers maintain these records meticulously, and it provides great peace of mind for everyone.”

Meleia herself became a driver because her own daughter wanted to ride the bus to school. “I was apprehensive about putting her on the bus to kindergarten. She tried it for a few weeks and when I saw a post that said the district needed drivers, I got my license so my daughter could ride my bus. She is 22 years old now, and she has always appreciated that she became friends with more of her classmates by riding another neighborhood route with me.” Meleia drove for two years, then worked as a support employee, eventually becoming director in 2013.

Meleia says all 49 buses are in service, and while they are always looking for additional drivers to share this important part of the school day, she is very proud of the diversity of experience her drivers bring to the students’ daily commutes.

THE BUS STOPS HERE Of their 41 drivers, including those who work on-call, she has teacher aides and full-time drivers, plus a paramedic, and another who retired from the

Department of Justice. “Miguel didn’t need the money,” Meleia says.

“He saw that we had a need and he just wanted to give back to the community. So many of our drivers just want to be involved in the school in any way they can, and some are retired but can’t imagine sitting at home. We couldn’t be able to make it without them and most of them agree it helps keep them young.”

Maria Anaya has been driving for LHISD for about ten years, but is celebrating 20 years total as an aide, bus monitor, and substitute.

“I just love being with the kids and when I was working with them at the school, I decided to get my license so I could really be with them all day. I love little ones, seeing their smiles, and having the chance to be positive for them in the morning or afternoon. If they have had a hard day, they know they have another friend on the bus.”

Maria has a special place in her heart for her PPCD (special ed) students. “They are all loving and happy and we love getting to know them, and the things that make them happy or anxious. In rain, or in the dark, we do it for them because they need to know someone will be there for them. I may go back to school to get my teaching degree so I can be with them all day, every day.”

‘BUS’ SCIENCE The yellow color we associate with school buses plays a vital role when it comes to keeping the folks riding on them safe.

It even has its own name...

“National School Bus Glossy Yellow“.

Yellow is the most-easily detectable color in the world, particularly in our peripheral vision. It tops the runner-up color, red, by being 1.24 times more detectable to the eye.

Since many children are picked up for the school day in the early morning hours, it is often dark. The bright yellow color stands

KEEPING UP WITH GROWTH Meleia keeps busy managing new routes and planning for growth and new schools. “It’s always a good thing when we are able to open a new school. While we always promote the safety and efficiency of our school buses, having a new school means more students attend closer to home, can walk or be driven, and do not have long bus commutes that start very early and end late.”

Knowing that the ISD has forecast 13 additional schools in the next ten years, she is becoming expert in evolving routes for time and safety. “With my job, any time I drive by a construction project, my first thought is ‘I wonder how many kids will live there.’”

out, even in the darkest conditions.

As well, bad weather can post challenges for drivers to manipulate the bus safely on the roads. Yellow can easily be seen in these types of weather conditions, giving other drivers plenty of notice that a school bus is in their path.

The contrasting black lettering on the sides of school buses is also more visible on the yellow paint. This makes finding the correct school bus a much easier task for

CELEBRATE YOUR DRIVERS

parents and children.

Meleia says, “We have an exceptional group of people that make up the Transportation Department, I am very grateful to have such wonderful and caring people on my staff. “ Plus, anyone can celebrate the day by showing appreciation to those who build community, make special deliveries, arrive in early hours, help students in need, focus on safety, and more. Maybe give them special cards, special snacks, or just talk with drivers about how much their commitment to student safety means to you, the schools, and the community.

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New Member Spotlight

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he Liberty Hill Education Foundation is a non-profit organization that partners with the Liberty Hill Independent School District to promote innovative opportunities for all students, and enhance the mission of the school district. The Foundation supports teachers and students where they are, empowering and encouraging them to achieve next-level success by providing opportunities to learn, grow, and meet life goals.

The Education Foundation was formed in November 2019, and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. The board is composed of community and philanthropic leaders committed to improving education and the Liberty Hill community. The Foundation solicits funds from individuals, businesses, and private foundations, then distributes those funds to LHISD to promote educational excellence and innovation programs.

FOUNDATION IN ACTION The Education Foundation works collaboratively to engage the community in activities that will benefit staff or students. This past year, LHEF partnered with the City of Liberty Hill during Teacher Appreciation week to create a drive-thru celebration, complete with special yard signs and Country Creamery ice cream for the teachers.

In December, seven local businesses donated a percentage of their proceeds from the “Holiday Around the Hill” event to LHEF; another incredible display of how the community backs education.

Just before the Christmas break, the Foundation partnered with Perky Beans to deliver coffee treats to all the staff to show appreciation for all their hard work. LHEF is looking forward to future events and opportunities to support teachers and students in the LHISD community, as they are investing in the future of Liberty Hill.

President, John Newberg said, “In our first year as a Foundation, we were met with 2020 challenges, but our board held on to one thing—we were committed to do whatever it took to help staff and students in Liberty Hill ISD. We are certainly proud of what we were able to accomplish this past year, thanks to our gracious donors and devoted board members. The Board is excited about distributing our first round of teacher grants in February, building our donor base, promoting student scholarships, and continuing our path of service for educational excellence in 2021.”

Get involved or learn more at LHeducationfoundation.org

In June, The Liberty Hill Independent selected the Education Foundation as a recipient in their Day of Giving charity fundraiser for local non-profits. This was the Education Foundation’s first fundraiser, and thanks to all the wonderful donors, it was a tremendous success.

LibertyHillChamber.org · 1000 Tx-332 Loop · Liberty Hill · 512-548-5533 F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 1  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

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“Find Help Here” at CRC Liberty Hill

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

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eed help paying your rent... or your utilities?

The Liberty Hill Community Resource Center just may be the best source of assistance that you haven’t heard of yet. Located in the main building of the San Gabriel Crossing apartment complex, the CRC is a group of independent support services that connect and refer people to just the right kind of aid they need.

With multiple non-profits in the same location, case managers have a greater impact by collaborating with and building on each other’s capabilities to help people in the community live more independently and with better quality of life.

LIBERTY HILL HUB Robbie Shader, site coordinator in Liberty Hill, enjoys helping people face-to-face and explains the hub site caters to the specific needs of the Liberty Hill community. “We have resources here in western Williamson County that focus on families living on the outer edges of our city, and in other, rural areas. Direct services include things like financial assistance for utilities and gas cards, or shared transportation. We also have a special focus on our senior community to help them maintain independent living and quality of life.”

CRC’s Older Adult Rural Services (OARS) acts as an advocate for seniors by connecting them with basic necessities; health and prescription services, housing, meals, utilities and more, to help them maintain their independence. This program is funded by donations, and Robbie is eager to promote it locally. “We have a large senior population here and we just want them to know what we can do for them. We have the volunteers, and even a mileage reimbursement program. If you need help with anything from utilities to getting a ramp in your home, just call and we’ll work together to determine a solution.”

Staff may also refer clients to other services in nearby cities; Round Rock or Leander, depending on need. “Our demand for services has not been very high because people may not be aware that we are here, but we know the needs are out there, and even greater in recent months.”

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Robbie says the center does receive and vets referrals from 211Texas; i.e., a social services hotline, but she encourages anyone needing assistance to call her directly to find out what is available locally, or come into the center.

“Many people feel anxious because they don’t know where to begin. It is our job to get to know something about them so we can truly help.

That’s what separates us from other agencies.

We have a very thorough intake process that will allow us to fine-tune a list of services in our own community first.”

She recalled a recent case that illustrated the benefit of having a collaborative network of agencies to blanket the community: Operation Liberty Hill provided funding to help a client pay rent, then CRC helped the same client pay the utility bill.

In addition to financial support, the CRC site houses Any Baby Can (family empowerment), Camp Agape (grief therapy), Bluebonnet Trails (behavioral and special needs resources), Community Action Inc., and Community Pathways (at-risk youth). They also provide access to Texas Workforce Computers to assist with job placement.

“Our services are all about potential. If I don’t have the resources myself, perhaps someone else in the building does. We have great partnerships and a good network to hopefully create a full solution.”

Visit CRCTX.org or visit the CRC in person to donate to OARS and other CRC programs.

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commu n it y actio n

Heroes in Towns Around

Karl Spencer and Matt Easton assist at election polls in July 2020 Photos courtesy of Romaine Anglin

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

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very special group of men has been sharing their compassion and commitment in Williamson County for years, and you probably haven’t heard their name. The 100 Black Men of Austin are part of a national organization that is, above all, a mentorship organization focusing on economic development, education, and health and wellness for young black men.

Chapter President Karl Spencer explains, “Roy Perry founded the Austin chapter in 1995 and, 26 years later, we are still going strong. His work is proof that we should all do good things, even if we’re not certain of the outcome. His good things have kept us strong for 26 years and counting. 100 Black Men is the national name, but we do not limit ourselves to 100 people; membership is always open to men with a heart for service and ideas that align with our core values.”

The Austin chapter partners with many community organizations in Central Texas to identify needs, then gets to work providing grass roots solutions and volunteers.

Karl explains, “Last year we saw community needs evolve in different ways, so we pivoted to focus on those needs.

The pandemic highlighted issues of food disparity, so we collected for, donated to, and volunteered at food banks, all for the sake of health and wellness. Children 10

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need healthy food to function in school, and education remains one of our pillars.

“As it was an election year, we mailed more than 60,000 voter registration cards across Texas and, to our surprise, we nearly doubled the expected response.”

Karl, and Georgetown member Matt Easton continued their election efforts all the way to the polls, where they handed out water and hand sanitizer to refresh those waiting in long lines to vote.

Karl is always happy to talk about the organization and its missions for unity and equity, and adds, “God blessed me that I didn’t lose my job and I have a roof over my head. As long as He continues to bless me, I will continue to bless others and do my best to help.”

LOCAL IMPACT Romaine Anglin (facing page) serves in and around western Williamson County. He explains, “When I moved to Texas I did not see a lot of people like me, so I decided to get active in the community and meet more like-minded people. I found 100 Black Men, later became the local chaplain and, eventually, the vice president of economic development. It was a good fit for my background in analytics.”

co m m un it y actio n

Among his many efforts, Romaine works with local police chiefs as part of an Engagement Advisory Board.

“We have members who are dedicated to working with the police in the city of Austin and local metro communities. COVID has given us some challenges but, typically, we partner with local departments, go on ride-alongs, have monthly coffees, and complete the citizens policy academy training. We are also creating new partnerships with community groups; when things return to normal, we plan to attend their events and they will attend ours.”

100 Black Men also facilitates Implicit Bias training for local police. Romaine says several departments are eager to do the training on an annual basis or include it in their internal programs. “It is interesting to be a part of that, and I enjoy seeing the young officers ask many questions and providing us with positive feedback.”

TEACHING FOR SUCCESS For 2021, Romaine created an initiative that is introducing young people to investing. He is partnering with the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, Wells Fargo, NFP, and some former NFL players (now working in finance) to hold a ten-week Zoom class for

high school students. More than 50 participants, broken into four teams, will compete for scholarship money from 100 Black Men of Austin.

He explains, “Teams are assigned a Charles Schwab advisor, given access to a virtual trading platform, and a fictitious $100,000 to invest. Over the course of ten weeks, they receive guidance and instruction from financial professionals about the stock market, trends, and other details about the industry. At the end of the project, the three teams with the largest portfolios will receive scholarships, and all students will be paid for their attendance. The intent is that they will use those funds to invest for real.”

The program is open to any high school student in the Austin metropolitan area and he encourages interested students to visit their website for information about and applications for future programs.

YOU CAN HELP Romaine and Karl encourage anyone who wishes to help their work to donate at 100BlackMenAustin.org. “I am proud of our commitment,” Matt says. “What we really want is for people to see that there are educated, professional, black males who care about community, and not the narrative that we’re used to. Williamson County is a giving place, and I know when we understand and tell people about these needs, they will step up to help.”

Students, and volunteers from 100 Black Men of Austin and Charles Schwab during the Week 1 class, January 23.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

Cowboy Boots Everyone Needs a Pair W

hile other states may argue the point, for many decades, there were not many items of clothing so rich in history that they identified Texas as your place of residence as accurately as a cowboy boot. (Don’t worry... we’ll get to ten-gallon hats later.)

Boots were as essential to a cowboy’s standard gear as they are for a youngster’s Lone Ranger costume. And, you know you can actually hear the kkshhching sound in your head when you imagine an outlaw or a marshal doing a slow-walk into a saloon wearing spurs.

Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

Like many things in the Lone Star State, cowboy boot design and function show off the vivid history and culture of Texas with every step.

BOOT CAMP Like much of the cowboy culture itself, boot designs were adapted from the equestrian culture of Spanish and Mexican vaqueros, who began hand-making boots in the 1500s. There is also some evidence that military boots, designed for cavalry, had an influence on the eventual design as well.

Early boots were cowhide leather pieced together with single rows of top stitching.

Custom boots often included decorative stitching to match the colors of the ranch, or cutouts in the high tops—e.g., Texas stars—based on the wearer’s preferences.

When they first hit the trail, boots were a functional option for working cowboys.

Hardworking trail riders needed affordable and practical footwear that would allow them to ride safely, but also provide support when they needed to run, and transition back into the saddle again.

In the 19th century, the rise and popularity of wild west shows influenced new fashionable styles that working cowboys adopted for their non-working and “dress” boots. Later, in the 1930s and ‘40s, Hollywood Westerns brought even more color, accessories, and materials that helped mold the cowboy image across the country’s collective conscience.

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what makes Texas “Texas” Modern, authentic cowboy boots are available in all colors and can be made from just about every animal whose skin can be made into leather, including exotic materials like alligator and ostrich.

FUNCTION AND FORM Nothing tells you more about the cowboy you’re looking at than the boots on his feet. Specifically, heel height and toe shape.

One thing they all have in common, the slick, treadless leather sole of the boot allows easy in and out motion in of the stirrups of a Western saddle. As well, the toe of a riding boot was rounded and slightly narrowed at the toe to make it easier to insert into the stirrup.

The modern shape of the toe in “dress boots”, while a source for debate, does not have much influence on use or safety, and tends to simply reflect personal preference. Many bootmakers have proprietary names for the toe shape, but, generally, wearers can choose from roach-killer, narrow pointed to reach into corners; snip, the top edge of the point is flattened slightly; wide snip, wider edge at the top; square, and round.

The heel of a roper boot is flat and stable. Men and women wear roper heels when jumping from a horse to rope a steer and immobilize the animal before branding it. This boot is designed for maximum stability on the ground to avoid falls or ankle injuries while wrestling or bull-dogging a steer.

The modern roper style boot, with a low heel and shorter shaft, evolved from traditional designs to accommodate modern rodeo cowboys, particularly calf roping, where the cowboy had to run to tie the calf as well as to ride. The lower shaft meant less expense and also allowed the boot to be easily removed.

Riding heels; about 2”, with a steep forward pitch (angled forward from top to bottom) keep the rider’s foot from sliding too far forward in the stirrup.

While in the saddle, the tall, angled heel minimizes the risk of the foot sliding forward through the stirrup, which could be life-threatening to the rider if he became unbalanced while standing, or unseated. Historically, this was likely, since cattlemen often rode young or unfamiliar horses in challenging terrain. If a rider fell from a horse but had a boot caught in the stirrup, there was a risk that the horse could panic and run off; if the boot was fully through the stirrup, there was a danger of being dragged.

boy from being dragged since his body weight could allow him to slip his foot out if he fell off while the boot remained stuck in the stirrup. While mounted, the shaft also protected the lower leg and ankle from rubbing on the leathers, as well as from brush and thorns. While dismounted, the shaft helped protect the leg and foot from rocks, brush, thorns, and rattlesnake bites. In wet weather or creek crossings, the high tops also helped prevent the boot from filling with mud and water.

MODERN FADS Back when cowboys were a feature of the West, these boots weren’t made for walkin’. They served the practical purpose of allowing men to ride comfortably in the western saddle for an extended period of time.

Spurred by the 1980 movie “Urban Cowboy,” western fashion became a mainstream rage and sales of boots increased exponentially. For a brief time, fashion mavens and cowboy wanna-bes across the nation bought boots and hats as quickly as the manufacturers could stitch them. Many boot makers worked long hours and upscaled their plants to keep up with demand, which dropped just as suddenly and put many out of work by 1985.

But the fondness for the American West never died out, although some designs are hardly recognizable or reminiscent any more of actual cowboys.

Cowboy boots continue to come in and out of vogue around the world, and have changed with each iteration. In the Internet Age, in which you can find tie-dyed or metallic boots... or both, western wear even has its own counterculture hashtag, #Yeehaw. Some see the pop culture and fashion industries trying to assimilate the masculine image of the cowboy and a new embrace of the nostalgia it represents—although some do it ironically as a poke at conservative America. In either case, boot makers are going to continue to be in business for a long time to come.

The tall, sturdy shaft helps hold the boot in place without lacing. These features helped prevent a cow-

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worth the drive

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com photos courtesy of Keith Hagler and Hagler Ranch

Make the Trip for Hagler Ranch Longhorn Beef

I F I T ’ S N OT A LO N G H O R N I T ’ S J U S T A CO W. ~ K E I T H H A G L E R

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hose who live outside Taylor may not know the Hagler family yet, but everyone needs to visit Keith Hagler’s offices before dinner. In short, if you already have an appreciation for Texas Longhorns, you are about to love them even more.

Modern Longhorn cattle, once numbering in the millions, have been a part of Texas culture since the 19th century, and Keith has always had a special interest in them because of their gentle nature and beautiful colors.

“Longhorns are very Texan. People don’t stop on the side of the road to take selfies with regular cows. I got into breeding and ranching as a hobby, but I enjoy the people who raise them so it’s a great business, too.”

WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE? Keith’s ranch is in Taylor and he sells Longhorn beef directly from the freezer in his Taylor office. “Our cattle are registered, and they are all grass-fed within 20 miles of here.” He explains Longhorns are very self-sufficient and eat most anything. “They get plenty of rich grass but are also happy to forage for things other cows won’t touch. They tend to clean up a pasture, which enables it to grow back healthier. Plus, while they are very gentle with people, rare is the coyote or wild hog that will mess with an animal their size with horns just as large.”

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In addition to selling the beef, Hagler Ranch also auctions and sells Longhorns to allow others to enjoy owning their own for Ag exemptions, or hobby farming.

“They calf easily and are virtually maintenance free. I also love how unique they are; you can put a black bull and with black cow and they will produce a red and white calf—each as different as a fingerprint.”

At press time, Keith is looking forward to the Fort Worth Cowtown Classic auction. He has three cattle registered, complete with bloodlines and histories, ready for breeding anywhere in the country. “It is all about genetics, and I have a consultant who assists me with bulls and cows to create the best pairings. For many generations, we have tried to grow the standard size, measured ‘tip-to-tip’ of the horns. A century ago, a large Longhorn was 60 inches. Today, breeding with different bulls, the standard is 70-80 inches and it’s not unusual to have a 90-inch animal. Outside of the beef business, we sell re-purposed skulls to those who use them for decoration, and even the skins find use. We respect what these animals give to us and do not take their lives for granted.”

Hagler Ranch also has a heifer in the NASA Longhorn program. Within sight of the Space Shuttle, a small Longhorn show team provides educational opportunities for local high school students. The Ranch pays the fees for students to exhibit his animal several times a year and, while the heifer goes back at the end of the year, Mr. Hagler gives the team a new one to continue their work in husbandry and ranching.

FUN FACT: LONGHORNS ‘INVENTED’ THE STEAK. YOU’RE WELCOME.

TO YOUR HEALTH Keith says the uniqueness of the meat is visible in the rich red color and the health benefits are many. “I had a heart scare and I wanted to continue eating meat; Longhorn beef has no cholesterol and is 97 percent lean or higher. When you cook a pound of the ground beef, you eat a pound of ground beef, and my doctor told me I can have moderate portions at every meal if I choose.”

Research has shown eating lean beef can help increase “good” cholesterol and reduce the “bad” in those who have elevated levels. It also has Selenium, which may reduce the risks of heart disease, and enhance the body’s ability to fight infections.

Everything Hagler Ranch sells is certified and USDA inspected, and their prices are very competitive with local grocery stories. Keith’s daughter Cameron works for the Ranch and explains, “Even the leanest beef in the stores is 7 percent fat, and costs $5.39 per pound. Ours is $5 and has almost no fat, so you’re always going home with more meat. We also have recipes and a cookbook available to help customers really enjoy the difference.

Generally, because there is so little fat, start by cooking at lower temperatures for more time. I promise, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked.”

SAY HELLO Keith encourages people to drive by the ranch on FM1331 toward Granger Lake Road to see the herd.

“We’ve had people visit from as far away as India to see these unique cattle—and they were impressed with our Longhorn chili. Anyone is welcome to stop and, respectfully, have a look and take photos any time.”

H AG L E R R A N C H B E E F 1912 N M A I N S T R E E T, TAY LO R M O N D AY - F R I D AY 9 A M - 6 P M ORDER ONLINE FOR PICKUP* H AG L E R LO N G H O R N S . CO M / S H O P - B E E F DIRECT-FROM-THE-RANCH RECIPES ON P. 18

* Mr. Hagler is working on plans to make his beef available for nationwide shipping. Check the website for updates.

NATURALLY GOOD AND GOOD FOR YOU All red meat has benefits; protein, iron, and vitamin B12. In addition to those, grass-fed Longhorn beef is clean and nutrient-dense, which can help heal the gut and immune system, contribute to weight loss and better sleep, and diminish “brain fog.”

Grass-fed Longhorn also contains Vitamins B3 and B6, and K2, which is important for bone and artery integrity.

Contains Conjugated Linoleic Acid, which has been shown to lower cardiac risks and, in some trials, resulted in body fat loss.

Contains three times the amount of Vitamin E by weight; known to lower the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Just 3oz has as much zinc as 12 cans of tuna, and as much B12 as seven chicken breasts.

Switching to grass-fed beef will save nearly 18,000 calories per year. A half-pound portion has 132 calories vs. 143 for white meat chicken, and no cholesterol.

Contains 4× the amount of Omega 3, and lowers levels of inflammatory Omega-6 (polyunsaturated) fatty acids common in most American diets; thought to be a cause of diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions.

“Grass-fed” has been singled out as the only red meat endorsed by the American Heart Association.

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Williamson County Begins Vaccinations Support for High-Risk Groups

W

illiamson County has begun providing the COVID vaccine to all those who wish to have it. Working diligently with state and private sector partners, County Judge Bill Gravell is committed to acquiring adequate doses to deliver to our most vulnerable populations as quickly as possible.

Liberty Hill nurse Jennifer Patton told County Judge Bill Gravell, “Giving out this vaccine is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help the community.

I’m honored to be able to do it.”

As of January 20, 15,000 doses have been administered; a number which will justify to the State of Texas that Williamson County is registering quickly and waiting for vaccines, which will move them to send more.

The walk-in site, at the Sun City ballroom, will be in operation as often as the vaccines are made available.

“This is not just for Sun City; anyone residing in Texas is eligible,” the Judge says. “The process takes about 2030 minutes; faster if you register online beforehand.”

V I S I T W I LCO. O R G F O R N E W S A N D D AT E S R E G I S T E R AT FA M I LY H O S P I TA L S Y S T E M S . CO M Judge Gravell says, “We pushed hard for these doses because our county has the largest number of veterans in Texas, and the 6th largest in the nation. Many of those are 65 years or older. It is incumbent upon us to care for seniors and those who have served our nation.”

Last month, the County reported all of Group 1A; local hospitals and healthcare systems, EMS personnel, and 2,020 seniors in 14 long-term care facilities or nursing homes received the vaccine.

Group 1B includes all individuals 16 years and older with at least one chronic health concern; e.g., cancer, heart disease, sickle-cell, COPD, diabetes, obesity, and others. The County estimates there are 120,000 residents who qualify for Group 1B, and the Judge expects distribution to take about three months.

He added, “From the beginning I have stated our seniors are our most valuable population, and they are the group of people who have suffered the greatest loss

of life in our county and country. That is why we are using every resource available to protect them.”

Medical personnel are eager to deliver shots and enter data, real-time, into the state database. Judge Gravell says, “We make requests and we have to put shots in arms. Bottom line, I can not get more unless I can prove we need it. Fortunately, we have a waiting list and we will notify people when it’s their turn.” Recipients also make the appointment for their second dose before leaving the ballroom.

The Judge says, as availability expands, there will be more than 100 locations county-wide, and the plan also includes a mobile vaccination van to address homebound, elderly, and rural populations.

Most Texas counties, including Williamson County are using the Moderna vaccine. Judge Gravell says. “It will take some time to take care of our seniors first, and there is not currently an unlimited supply. It is important to note, also, that getting the vaccine is entirely voluntary, but we will ensure everyone in Williamson County who wants it will be able to get it.”

I W I L L G E T T H E VA CC I N E , B U T O N LY A F T E R E V E R Y P E R S O N O V E R 65 G E T S I T F I R S T. W E ’ V E B U R I E D TO O M A N Y S E N I O R A D U LT S TO P U T A N YO N E I N F R O N T O F T H E M . ~ J U D G E G R AV E L L

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facts to blow your mind

Heartfelt Valentinus is not only the Patron Saint of sweethearts and love, he is also the go-to guy for bee keepers, epilepsy, fainting, plague, travelers, and young people.

In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who would be their Valentine. They would wear this name pinned onto their sleeves for one week for everyone to see. This was the origin of the expression “to wear your heart on your sleeve.”

The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare’s lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every year.

In South Korea, the 14th of every month is a romantic holiday of some sort. Candle Day, Valentine’s Day, White Day, Black Day (for singles), Rose Day, Kiss Day, Silver Day, Green Day, Music Day, Wine Day, Movie Day, and Hug Day. 220,000 people get engaged on Valentine’s Day every year.

Happy Irony Day: King Henry VIII declared February 14th a holiday in 1537. He also killed most of his wives for not giving him a son.

A fourth chocolate, ruby, now officially exists.

The innovation of Swiss confectionery company Barry Callebaut, its pink hue comes entirely from Ruby cocoa beans found around the world.

Ruby beans provide pink color along with a fruity berry flavor no other chocolate type possesses.

The 80 million bacteria exchanged during kissing helps boost your immune system—it’s good for your teeth, too.

Americans spend $700 million on Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets.

And 15% of American women send themselves flowers.

In Russia, the Ukraine and former Soviet Union countries, if you plan to give a woman flowers, make sure you give her an odd number (not an even dozen typically given in America).

Even numbers of flowers are reserved for grieving and funerals.

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belle chimes in

“Unity” I Can Appreciate W

We all have at least a partial pile of t-shirts we don’t wear but won’t throw away.

ithout expressing my opinions about the current national conversation that focuses on unity (mostly because this magazine only has limited pages), I do want to take a stab at some stuff we maybe already had in common.... ‘cause we’re human ‘n all.

The only time I’m good at math is when I wake up in the night a dozen times and calculate, to the minute, how much more sleep I can get if I fall back to sleep immediately.

Whether it’s kettle chips or kale chips, we all have those precious half-dozen-or-so things in the pantry that we never allow ourselves to run out of.

Open birthday card, in front of gifter. Try really hard to focus on the nice message. Do not be obvious about trying to read the amount on the check.

If you don’t say “wed-nez-day” in your head when you write it out, you’re totally lying.

Am I the only one wishing I could be a child and someone would tell me to go to my room when company arrives?

Admit it, there were a few times in life you peeked around the shower curtain to make sure there was no one in the room. Modern day... you probably (or should) have a sticky note covering your webcam, just in case.

We fall asleep on the couch and decide to stay there all night because, if we walk to the bed, we lose all our “sleepy.”

It’s really annoying that everyone in the neighborhood knows when you’re trying to sneak one of the danishes in those covered plastic, impossibly tight grocery store trays.

We all have that friend or relative we need only look at, when someone does something stupid, to know, “Yeah, we’re totally going to talk about that later.”

Most people want to be told “Happy Birthday” but most of us don’t want to have to actually tell anyone that it’s today.

That awkward moment when you insist someone hear/ see/read something that changed your life, and, a minute in, you have to awkwardly say, “Wait, it gets better.”

Admit it, you’ve Googled yourself and, perhaps, thought the page 1 results should have been different.

When you feel like you typed the password incorrectly, you have to delete the whole thing because you have no idea which character might have been wrong.

How often have you clicked the “Public View” of your social media profile to see what you look like to strangers?

For dog and cat people... no matter how many pets you have in your life, there will always be that one perfect pup/kitty by whom all the others are measured.

Maybe one of the reasons we don’t use much cash any more is the mild panic attack we have when people are staring and rolling their eyes while we try to put away the bills and the coins and the receipt without dropping it all over the place. Or, when you give the cashier exact change, you have to say, “I think that’s right...”

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food

Healthy, Simple & Delicious

Texas Longhorn Steak • Skillet • Olive oil • Garlic salt

• Salt & Pepper • Smashed garlic

• Onion • Rosemary

• Butter

PREPARATION

Cover with foil and let rest for 5-7 minutes.

For the cut and size of your choosing, allow meat to thaw to room temperature.

While letting it stand, melt butter, smashed garlic, and fresh rosemary for drizzle.

Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add a little onion or garlic salt, whatever is on hand.

Drizzle over steak, thinly slice and enjoy your healthy and delicious Texas Longhorn steak!

Heat the cast iron skillet until you can’t hold your hand one inch over the surface for more than 3 seconds.

4-oz Longhorn sirloin

4-oz chicken breast

• 140 calories

• 173 calories

Note: Grass-fed beef is best medium rare. If you cook to medium, it will be tougher than traditional grain-fed beef.

• 25.5 grams protein

• 30 grams protein

• 3.7 grams fat

• 4.5 grams fat

Remove from heat and place on cutting board.

• 61.5 mg cholesterol

• 85.7 mg cholesterol

Add steak and cook for 2-3 mins on each side. To see if done, press with finger; steak will not feel mushy or hard.

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fo o d

LONGHORN CHILI • 1 T olive oil

• 1.5 cups chopped onion

• 1/2 tsp minced garlic

• 2 lbs ground longhorn beef

• 3/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• 6 oz tomato paste

• 1/2 thyme

• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes • 1/4 cup chopped green onion • 1 tsp Tony Chachere seasoning • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 1/2 tsp cumin powder • 1/2 tsp garlic salt Put olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add onions, garlic and beef. Cook until meat is browned.

Add salt and pepper. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, green onions. Add remaining seasonings. Stir and simmer for at least 20 minutes. Serve with warm tortillas and guacamole or avocado slices.

LONGHORN MEATLOAF WITH TASTY SAUCE • 2 lbs. ground longhorn beef

• 1 c milk

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1/2 c. ketchup

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/3 c. onion, chopped fine

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1 c. uncooked quinoa (or crushed Ritz Crackers)

MEATLOAF Preheat oven to 350°. Coat 5½ × 10½ -inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, set aside. In measuring cup or bowl, combine milk and quinoa and cook in microwave for 1 min. Stir. This step is not necessary if using Ritz Crackers.

In large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, milk, quinoa (or crackers), ½ cup ketchup, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until thoroughly combined. Put mixture into prepared pan, smooth with a slight rise in the center (like a loaf of bread). Put on a baking sheet and bake in preheated oven for 90 minutes.

SAUCE • 3/4 c apricot preserves • 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (or Worcestershire) • 3/4 c ketchup • 1/4 c brown sugar In small bowl, combine sauce ingredients. If your Balsamic Vinegar is too tangy, add an additional tablespoon of brown sugar or honey. Mix well. Spread half the mixture on the loaf evenly halfway through baking; save the rest for dipping or when serving. Let meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

F O R Q UA L I T Y, LO C A L LY - G R A S S - F E D LO N G H O R N B E E F, V I S I T H AG L E R LO N G H O R N S . CO M TO P U R C H A S E F O R P I C K U P. G R O U N D B E E F, F I L E T S , S I R LO I N S , R O U N D S T E A K , A N D R I B E Y E S .

Thanks to Hagler Ranch for sharing recipes and preparation tips for their grass-fed longhorn beef, one of the healthiest sources of flavor and protein. See our story on page 12.

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PARTING SHOT

Historic and Proud ICYMI*: The old Liberty Hill water tower was illuminated in purple, for the first time, January 7, 2021. The light show was part of the send-off and honors for the Panther football team and their season of success leading up to the Class 5A-DII football semifinals.

Adorned with a replication of Jim Franklin’s poster from the 1975 Willie Nelson concert, this piece of Liberty Hill nostalgia continues to remind residents of the rich history of the city as well as welcoming visitors to town. For now, it is also the city’s biggest billboard for athletic success.

The Panthers finished a vigorous and emotional season ranked 12th in Division 5A-II, 37th in Region 3, and 112th in Texas.

*In case you missed it... photo Facebook/Experience Liberty Hill TX 22

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P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON LIBERTY HILL, TX