Liberty Hill Digest • April 2021

Liberty Hill digest

APRIL 2021

iTILE IS FOR YOU HOME DECOR MUSEUM • ONE-STOP SHOP

IN THIS ISSUE Apples to Apples | Q&A with 2021 City & ISD Candidates Celebrate, Liberty Hill! | Whimsy & Wonder Returns Small-Town Strong | Hop Around the Hill Gives Back

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QUICK FACTS Based on the recommendation of a Long-Range Planning Committee and to keep up with the rapid growth in the district, the LHISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved an order calling for a $491.7M bond election to be held on May 1, 2021.

BOND PACKAGE BREAKDOWN This bond proposal, developed by the community to address student growth, will be presented to voters in Propositions A-D:

PROPOSITION A $457.7 MILLION School Facilities

PROPOSITION B $8 MILLION School Technology

New Construction to include 2 new elementary schools, 1 new middle school, 1 new high school

Technology devices for students and staff

Expansions at Liberty Hill ES and Louine Noble ES; Liberty Hill MS and Santa Rita MS; Liberty Hill HS. These expansions will address capacity, equity, CTE and fine arts Safety, Security & Infrastructure across campuses Land Acquisition and design of Elementary #8 and Middle School #4 Transportation and buses

PROPOSITION C $6 MILLION Expanding and Improving Panther Stadium Expand LHHS stadium seating to include additional 5000 seat capacity and addition of ADA compliant restrooms

PROPOSITION D $20 MILLION Construction of New Stadium at High School #2 Modest Stadium for High School #2, including competition field with track, locker rooms, home and visitor seating, concessions and restrooms

NO TAX RATE INCREASE By law, the district cannot increase the debt tax rate, also known as the Interest and Sinking (I&S) fund, because it is already at $0.50 per $100 valuation — the maximum allowed by the state.

The passage of this bond will not result in a tax rate increase. However, a new state law now requires every school district to include the statement “THIS IS A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE” on the ballot, regardless of the actual impact on that district’s tax rate. If approved by voters, the district tax rate would not increase. This is due, in part, to the rapid growth in the community.

While the I&S rate has been and would remain at 50 cents (regardless of the outcome of this bond), the Maintenance and Operations rate was reduced by 11 cents last year and 7 cents in 2019.

Learn more about how this tax rate is possible at www.libertyhillisdbond.com/tax-information.

REGISTER TO VOTE BY APRIL 1, 2021

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DID YOU KNOW? In Texas, bonds are the only mechanism to fund the construction of new schools or pay for large infrastructure projects or expansions.

Along with accommodating for growth, this bond also addresses equity of schools, efficiency of scale, and campus student capacity.

• Three of the four elementary schools are built for 800 students, while one holds approximately 400 students.

• The Long-Range Planning Committee, made up parents, residents, business owners, senior citizens and staff, determined that for schools to be more equitable, they need to be approximately the same size so all students would have similar opportunities, programs and experiences as other campuses in the district.

APRIL 2021  LIBERTY HILL DIGEST

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business spotlight

iTile is for YOU U

nlike other home design elements, stone and tile trends change quickly, and outdated designs are, well... still set in stone. Fortunately, iTile’s Margarito Espinoza is not only an expert on the stone and tile business, he is also a creative genius.

According to his wife Claudett, Margarito spends as much time coming up with new ideas and designs as he does cultivating a satisfied client base.

A LIFETIME Margarito grew up around quarries and, as a young man, worked part-time in several of them.

Over the last 25 years, he has gained experience selling, designing, and installing beautiful and natural materials. He recently partnered with fellow stone and tile experts José “Chalin”* Rosalio and Victor Alvarado to open an iTile store in Round Rock.

includes talking about needs, education about stone types, as well as pros and cons for different uses, waterproofing, or how to best care for it, so customers can make an informed decision. “We are the perfect place for people who know what they like, what fits their aesthetic, and feel comfortable trusting expert advice.”

The idea of iTile was born in early 2019. The combination of Margarito’s experience and relationships in and around the stone business, along with Victor and Chalin’s 30-plus years of experience and connections in the tile business enabled the successful opening of their first store in Houston later that year. Their hard work and dedication, and the high demand for their products allowed them to open a second store a year later in Webster, Texas.

Both stores have provided and maintained unbeatable prices for customers thanks to relationships each had carefully cultivated and individually nurtured over the years with manufacturers and suppliers prior to opening their first store.

THE iTILE “MUSEUM” Margarito, Victor, and Chalin are determined to make their showroom a unique experience. The partners, along with the iTile team, want to provide every customer with expertise and creativity that will elevate and enhance any project with quality and design.

In other stores, customers may be overwhelmed by the number of choices, but iTile customer care *chah-LEEN 2

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advertorial

photos by Callie Hickman

iTileTX.com UNIQUE IN THE MARKET Victor says “Our top priority is maintaining a strong relationship with our customers and community.

We have personal relationships with the manufacturers and, in return, our customers are able to avoid middleman fees. They get the best prices and exclusive products, perfect for any budget, found only at iTile.”

While iTile has plenty of inventory for every need, the current trend is large format tile, light colors, decorative tiles, and backsplashes. Thanks to great market sense and planning, they have all colors and sizes available for interior and exterior products.

Team members are available to guide customers through every selection; ceramic vs. porcelain, matte vs. polished, and all the benefits natural materials provide for the home; longevity, home value, cooling, etc.

GRAND OPENING The Round Rock store, located in La Frontera is preparing for a grand opening on April 9, and they are eager to introduce homeowners and designers to their one-stop shop.

Margarito says, “Our store is a beautifully designed gallery for the homeowner, architect, and designer looking to be inspired through different colors, textures and patterns.

All to bring your visions to life!”

All three Partners are, as Chalin says, “A partnership that has merged three families and created a strong team.” Customers will enjoy being served by a team of professionals who are ready and excited to guide every person as they come through the door.

“ I WA S LO O K I N G F O R Q UA L I T Y AT A F F O R D A B L E P R I C E S . I WA S LU C K Y E N O U G H TO F I N D I T I L E . YO U W I L L N OT F I N D B E T T E R P R I C E S ANY WHERE ELSE. A L F R E D O A N D V I C TO R H E L P E D M E S E L E C T T H E M O S T B E AU T I F U L T I L E FOR MY ENTIRE HOUSE. THEIR C U S TO M E R C A R E I S E XC E P T I O N A L .

I ’ M E X T R E M E LY H A P P Y W I T H M Y PURCHASE THERE. I W I L L R E M O D E L M Y K I TC H E N A N D B AT H R O O M S S O O N A N D W O N ’ T H AV E TO LO O K A N Y W H E R E E L S E .” ~ C U S TO M E R T E S T I M O N I A L Pictured at right, “Starry Night” in natural stone, and a luxury Doggy Bath.

120 SUNDANCE PKWY #200 • ROUND ROCK, TX 78681 AT LA FRONTERA • ITILETX.COM • 512-888-1212 OPEN MON-FRI 8AM-7PM • SAT 8AM-6PM • SUN 10AM-5PM APRIL 2021  LIBERTY HILL DIGEST

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Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

PUBLISHER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ann Marie Kennon

Cathy Payne

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Megan Diane Beatty

EDITOR’S NOTE | MEGAN DIANE BEATTY Dear Readers, Spring has sprung, finally. Something about the warm air, the smell of rain, and birds singing makes my soul smile.

I enjoy hiking in the springtime. While I am taking in all the nature that surrounds me, my kids are gathering wild flowers to make the perfect bouquet for the center of our kitchen table.

In this issue you will get to know your candidates who are running for City Council and the Liberty Hill ISD School Board. I enjoyed reading all their reasons why being elected is important to them. Many thanks, also, to the LHISD leadership for providing us with important details about the four propositions that make up the LHISD School Bond.

Mark your calendars for early voting, April 19-27, election day is May 1, and best of luck, Candidates!

SENIOR WRITER Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Miranda Bradley • Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Christina Tucker • Todd White Charlotte Kovalchuk • Megan Diane Beatty SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR • Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES • Debbie Tolliver 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.

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After speaking with Liberty Hill High School Varsity Football Team’s Newcomer of the Year, it is no surprise he received that award. I look forward to the upcoming football season and watching him grow within the team.

I continue to be amazed by the beauty around us. I hope after reading “Hop (and Hope) Around the Hill,” you are as touched and moved by the people in our community as I am. I am grateful to the seven boutique owners who show us that, together, we can rise above any storm.

INSIDE

FAVORITES 6 16

ELECTION 2021 LHISD Bond Propositions ARTS Whimsy & Wonder Returns

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EDUCATION Panthers’ Newcomer of the Year

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS” Wildflowers

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BELLE CHIMES IN I Need a Hero

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FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Spring Bouquet

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PARTING SHOTS Evans Livestock

9 FEATURES 9 APPLES-TO-APPLES

Q&A with Candidates for LHISD Trustee, and City Council

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Photo by Kendra Cofer

photo by Megan Diane Beatty

Hop (and Hope) Around the Hill

28 Digest photographer Christina Tucker getting a close-up while showcasing Evans Livestock.

COMMUNITY

“Small-Town Strong” is the latest in Liberty Hill’s long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors.

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election 2021

Liberty Hill School Bond • May 1 PROPOSITION A $457.7 MILLION School Facilities

New Construction to include 2 new elementary schools 1 new middle school 1 new high school Expansions Liberty Hill ES and Louine Noble ES Liberty Hill MS and Santa Rita MS Liberty Hill HS These expansions will address capacity, equity, CTE, and fine arts Safety, Security & Infrastructure across campuses Land Acquisition and design of Elementary #8 and Middle School #4 Transportation and buses

PROPOSITION B $8 MILLION School Technology

Technology devices for students and staff

PROPOSITION C $6 MILLION

Expanding and Improving Panther Stadium Expand LHHS stadium seating to include additional 5,000 seat capacity and addition of ADA-compliant restrooms

by Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

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iberty Hill ISD voters have the opportunity to approve funding that will prepare the city and the District to accommodate predicted and unprecedented growth that is, to some degree, already happening.

Superintendent Steve Snell affirms Liberty Hill growth is in the top one percent in Texas, and the city is poised to be a ‘boomtown’ in the next decade. “We are also the highest performing ISD in Williamson County, and among the highest in Texas. Our long-range planning committee assessed what our needs would be for the next ten years, and this bond will prevent us from having to ask for another election for another 4-5 years.”

As demographers predict enrollment to increase from the current 5,735 to 22,374 by 2030, this bond will be in place to cover the needs where homes are planned or already being built (chart below).

WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU The May 1 bond is made up of four propositions totaling $491.7 million, and voters can vote for or against them individually. The superintendent affirmed, even with passage of all four, the city’s tax rate will not increase. “First, we are already at the state maximum of $.50 allowed for school taxes. Second, we have a great plan to pay the bond note, and, most importantly, the organic increase in the number of taxpayers in Liberty Hill will absorb the cost of the bond note.”

He added, while a few new students per campus would be manageable, the District expects 13-16 percent annual growth, and it is important to provide appropriate resources to enable

PROPOSITION D $20 MILLION Construction of New Stadium at High School #2

credit: LHISD

Modest Stadium for High School #2, including competition field with track, locker rooms, home and visitor seating, concessions, and restrooms

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election 2021 AT THE POLLS: For bond elections, the state requires “This is a tax increase” printed on the page. Steve explains this is necessary because property taxes are correlated to bonds of any kind. In this case, the increase is $0.00. hundreds to maintain the District’s high expectations, and strong culture of character and service.

“New students don’t just show up on the first day,” Mr. Snell says. “We receive new partners every day; we’ve had the equivalent of two full classrooms just since Christmas, and we hit ‘trigger’ points throughout the year that indicate a need for more space. This bond, among other things, will allow us to purchase land at today’s prices, to help us prepare to cover the needs of those 6,000 new students we will welcome to our District before mid-2025.”

DID YOU KNOW? In Texas, bonds are the only mechanism to fund the construction of new schools or pay for large infrastructure projects or expansions.

Along with accommodating for growth, this bond also addresses equity of schools, efficiency of scale, and campus student capacity.

Three of the four elementary schools are built for 800 students, while one holds approximately 400 students.

The Long-Range Planning Committee, made up parents, residents, business owners, senior citizens and staff, determined that for schools to be more equitable, they need to be approximately the same size so all students would have similar opportunities, programs and experiences as other campuses in the district.

VISIT, AND VOTE The ISD bond website provides specific details about the contents of each proposition, allowing each voter to compare cost options with their personal views on what is best for the community. Superintendent Snell says the website is a valuable tool and worth a visit; “We want our residents to know what they are paying for, so they can make an informed decision. If the community prefers to expand rather than build new, we are confident to let them decide. The website includes support-

Superintendent Steve Snell presenting at the Shooting Star Ranch for the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Women in Business last month.

The superintendent has 50 such presentations scheduled ahead of the election.

ing details; e.g., irrespective of the number of schools we build, our bus fleet will need to double to get those students to school each day.”

W E ’ R E N OT D O I N G A N Y T H I N G E X T R AVA G A N T. W E WA N T TO G I V E K I D S E V E R Y T H I N G T H E Y N E E D TO H AV E A CO M P E T I T I V E A D VA N TA G E W H E N T H E Y G R A D UAT E . ~STEVE SNELL

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apples to apples

VOTE • MAY 1 T H E L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T A S K E D A L L C A N D I D AT E S F O R C I T Y CO U N C I L A N D S C H O O L B O A R D T H E S A M E Q U E S T I O N S TO E N A B L E V OT E R S TO R E V I E W “A P P L E S - TO - A P P L E S” R E S P O N S E S R E G A R D I N G I S S U E S A N D P L AT F O R M S .

A L L C A N D I D AT E S W E R E I N V I T E D TO R E S P O N D A N D A N S W E R S A P P E A R I N T H E O R D E R I N W H I C H T H E Y W E R E R E C E I V E D.

School Board 1. What inspired you to run for Liberty Hill ISD Trustee?

2. Which, if any, education or civic organizations have you served on and/or participated in?

3. What three issues in Liberty Hill schools are most important to you?

4. What solutions do you offer/propose regarding your primary ISD issue or concern?

AURORA TRAHAN • PLACE 6

4. Continuing to engage with the community to solicit feedback, and share insight behind decision making, is key to succeeding as a district in the short and long term. Looking to nearby school districts for ideas and lessons learned will be a key input to consider as well.

I am a big believer in strategic planning and the value of taking the time to outline a clear plan. The outcome of this bond election will provide the opportunity to revisit the district’s strategy.

KRISTI HARGROVE • PLACE 6

1. Since we first moved to Liberty Hill, I was impressed by how the leaders of LHISD really encouraged community participation.

As an active member on district committees and the Vice-President of the Santa Rita Elementary PTO, I have enjoyed jumping in and value my ability to be a resource to my community, neighbors and friends. I believe Board members need to be strong leaders, excellent communicators, team players, and accessible to the community they serve.

1. As a retired educator of 25 years, I feel I have a great deal of hands on experience to offer as a board member. I have 4 grandchildren attending LHISD and I have always been a person that gives back. I welcome the opportunity to utilize my experience to help LHISD provide a premier education to all students. Living in Liberty Hill, I want the opportunity to help create a positive educational experience for our children.

2. I have participated in 2 committees within LHISD; the District Education Improvement Committee, and the Long Range Planning Committee. I also served as the coordinator for the Education Connection at Rancho Sienna Elementary last year, and currently as the Vice-President of the Santa Rita Elementary PTO. I also serve as a Board member for a clinic in Central Austin; one of my most rewarding professional experiences.

2. I have 9 years experience as a teacher/coach and 16 years as a Campus Administrator. As a teacher/coach I was directly involved in opening a second high school in a growing district. I was also directly involved as the Intermediate Principal in a growing district that made changes we are currently going through in Liberty Hill.

I also created and executed the opening of a 9th grade Academy, as the Principal.

3. I believe the growth our district is experiencing is our most pressing issue and exciting opportunity. Not just in preparing facilities, but ensuring we are leaning in to the growth ahead of time and ensuring we can preserve what is great about LHISD today (namely, its culture!) and use the influx of students and families to grow opportunities not possible for students as a smaller district. Lastly, we need a solid strategy for attracting and retaining top talent in our district.

3. First, physical growth isn’t just building new buildings.

It involves future projections of growth, attendance zones, and planning for years to come. Secondly, we must ensure we are keeping quality teachers and hiring effective teachers for all our campuses, during this growth. Thirdly, we need a growth mindset keeping up with our increasing enrollment and looking at what is best for “all students” as we grow. My experience can bring a new set of eyes to the board. ► APRIL 2021  LIBERTY HILL DIGEST

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1. What inspired you to run for Liberty Hill ISD Trustee? 2. Which, if any, education or civic organizations have you served on and/or participated in?

3. What three issues in Liberty Hill schools are most important to you? 4. What solutions do you offer/propose regarding your primary issue or concern?

4. I plan to address these challenges and bring possible solutions from personal experience, but also hearing from the community regarding their concerns and solutions. School boards make informed decisions in the best interests of students, parents, employees, and communities. An important responsibility of the school board is to work with their community to improve student achievement in their local public schools. My goal is to provide quality education and positive experiences for all our students, even in the midst of growth.

LOCKIE EALY • PLACE 6 1. As a mother of two children in the Liberty Hill school system, the children are my main concern. I am running for the betterment of the school system and the kids.

2. I currently serve on the Thrivent Financial Texas Regional Board of Directors and I have previously served as Chairman for the Austin Board of Realtors Foundation Scholarship Committee awarding college scholarships to local youth. I am also very active in a number of other charity organizations including Habitat for Humanity, the Austin Children’s Shelter, and Austin Pets Alive.

3. I have no particular issue with LHISD, but the following are three important issues surrounding the education of our children that are important to me: Quality of personnel to lead and teach our students; Adequate facilities to give students an environment to enhance their learning experience; Enough extracurricular activities to satisfy the varied needs of our students.

4. Since I have no specific axe to grind or issue that drives me, my solution will be the same as any issue that comes before the Board. Listen to all sides, seek the facts independently, satisfy myself that I am familiar with every aspect of the issue in question, and then work with the other Board members to seek a solution that is in the best interest of the education of our children.

MICHAEL FERGUSON • PLACE 3 1. I have always had a passion to help others especially the kids of the community. I was motivated to run for school board to help preserve the current culture that attracted us to LHISD while helping to navigate through the growth challenge the district is dealing with. I want every kid, mine included, to have the same opportunities kids in larger districts have. As a district it is important, we give students the resources to learn, lead, and succeed in future endeavors no matter which direction they choose.

2. I have two boys in LHISD. That said, I am very involved with the community and have participated in Rancho Sienna Watchdog program, which has allowed me the opportunity to meet our amazing teachers and staff.

I am involved in LHYL baseball, i9 Soccer, and Neighborhood Sports flag football where I have coached numerous kids and got to know their parents. I recently got the opportunity to serve on the Long-Range Planning Committee.

3. First, I would like to start by saying LHISD has truly been blessed to have amazing people serve on the school board both past and present. Accompany that with a stand-up superintendent like Steve Snell, amazing educators and administrators the end results will continue to be successful! I approach concerns as opportunities to grow. My first opportunity would be to make sure we do not lose the current culture that attracts so many families to LHISD. 4. It is up the community and LHISD school board to make sure we carefully maneuver through all the topics mentioned above. As a board trustee we help support our community and we can help make sure our district culture stays top notch by being committed to retaining, recruiting, and hiring top talent to ensure LHISD continues to have the best teachers, staff and administrators.

ROBERT BAUGHN • PLACE 6 1. I was invited to serve on the LHISD long range planning committee for capital improvements last year.

Over the course of serving on that committee I quickly realized the herculean task ahead of the district in regards to the number of schools needed and the speed

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apples to apples at which they must be built.

12-15 schools must be built by the district in the next 9 years, not including the ones already under construction.

2. Having served in the military for 15 years selfless service has always been an important value to me. I served on the 2018 LHISD bond committee, including becoming a deputy registrar for the county to get new members of the community registered to vote. It was a tremendously time consuming and rewarding experience. In addition, I used my experience in construction and development to help the long-range planning committee the following year.

3. First and foremost, for the next couple of years I think that capital improvement is certainly the most daunting task facing the district. Second, I think managing staff is critical. LHISD’s staff is a huge part of why this district is so successful and serve our children so well. Third is curriculum and educational planning. As parents and community members we have only a limited amount of time to influence our children to become the responsible citizens we hope they will be.

4. I want to lend my experience in development and construction to the school board and administration in order to help facilitate proper planning, funding, and constructing of the large numbers of schools the district needs. The administration focuses primarily on education and may lack this experience. The same could be said of the school board. Normally education, curriculum, and staff management are the primary issues districts face. However, at this point in time development and construction are crucial for LHISD. CORY MILAM • PLACE 6 1. We moved to Liberty Hill over 5 years ago because of the small town feel and the values that we hold dear. Liberty Hill is growing at an incredible pace, while that is exciting it also comes with growing pains. I am running for place 6 with the primary focus on keeping the core values and small town feel that has made Liberty Hill so great and what brought my family here.

2. I am currently serving on the board for the Liberty Hill Youth League 3. The Culture, that is what has made LHISD great and should be at the forefront of all decisions being made in the future. The Importance of Integrity – Doing what we say we are going to do with the upcoming bond.

Recruiting high quality staff- LHISD has high academic & culture expectations.

4. Having a school board that continues to focuses on transparency and integrity in everything we do would be the first step. I believe everything else falls into place after that. Being able to listen with an open mind is something that gets lost these days. LHISD is already a phenomenal district, I just want to ensure that it stays that way moving forward.

ANTONIO CANAS • PLACE 3 1. The reason that I decided to run to be next school member in Liberty Hill is one I love helping others and making a difference. I just retired from the Army after 25 years and I love serving our nation and community but most important my family. I believe that self-service is a great attribute that the Army install in me and would like to continue to serve and make an impact.

2. While in the military I was engaged in numerous civic organization that were making an impact starting from the Knights of Columbus to assisting our DOD school with sports activities and events. When I lived in Round Rock, I was part of the Watch Dads in my children’s Elementary. Recently I have being involved in the Liberty Hill Bond Pac and Long-Range Planning committee. In addition, I am part of the Williamson County Reset Mentoring.

3. The three issues that are important to me, my Family and our community is providing the best education for our children, having the best resources with space to teach our children but most important getting the best educators from Principals/Ass Principals, Administrators, Counselors and teachers that want to be part of this community and educate our children and assist our community.

4. One of my focus that I want to ensure it gets attention is having the right resources for our children to succeed such us the adequate number of professional counselors to assist our children and educators. This past year was difficult to everyone, but our educators and children have suffered the most.

Our teachers had to adapt to a new environment of teaching our children in a virtual environment which is a difficult task.

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apples to apples CHARLENE STEVENS • PLACE 3 1. I was encouraged by friends/family to throw my hat in the ring. With a background in pediatric nursing as well as a mother, for nearly 30 years I have been an advocate for parents and children. I want to be the voice for the community. Like the Liberty Hill ISD mission statement, I agree that we are helping empower students to be the best version of themselves while setting high expectations for student achievement.

2. I have not served in the education or civic organization space, however I have served on professional policy committees throughout my career and several non-profit organizations including chapter president and corporate delegate for the PEI chapter of the Canadian Paraplegic Association. In previous professional roles, I have managed a division of a home health care company so I understand the importance of proper fiscal management.

3. First issue is returning to a traditional teaching model with all children being back in school while providing a safe and secure learning environment. Second issue around STAAR testing and the focus being on test scores rather than long-term learning as well as the increased stress placed on students/teachers resulting in increased anxiety. Third issue is making sure that we are teaching our children how to think not what to think.

4. Schools open 100% without restrictions which includes parents/students/teachers being back in school. Parental engagement can only be achieved by allowing parents back into the school. Transparency around what is being taught to our children can only be achieved when parents have access to the schools and lesson plans.

JENNIFER WILLIAMS • PLACE 6 1. As a former teacher, I loved my students but felt called to take on larger roles that would impact more students. Teaching experience is invaluable and considering schools have changed immensely in the last few years, I’m the only candidate (in place 6) that has been a K-12 student in the last decade and the only candidate who’s been a teacher in the last decade; we need that current and relevant perspective on the board.

2. I’m a former high school math teacher. I left the classroom about a year and a half ago to be an education consultant. My work allows me to talk with students, parents and communi-

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ties, look at data and find best solutions specific to a district.

Additionally, I did fellowships with Leadership ISD and Leadership for Educational Equity.

3. District Growth. Centering Student, Parent, and Teacher Voices. Handling post-COVID: potential loss of learning, community unity, ensuring students feel safe and supported at school 4. We need to pass the bond to ensure our district is prepared for growth in the next few years. There’s no easy solution to handling growth. My plan is to follow the data and listen to the community, take things one step at a time and consider the long-term effects of any decisions on the table.

STEVE MESSANA • PLACE 3 1. I am inspired by the community of Liberty Hill and the involvement of our residents and I want to participate as well as give back. Liberty Hill is a special place. We moved here from Austin eight years ago because of the community and because of the excellent schools. I am excited that there are so many qualified candidates running for the open board seats, as it underscores the community involvement that brought us here.

2. Currently I serve as the co-chair for the Board of Trustees for Cross Tracks Church and as a commissioner for the City of Liberty Hill’s Planning and Zoning Board.

Additionally, I hold a board seat on Outdoor Adventure Brand’s board, the parent company that bought my previous business.

3. I am not campaigning for this seat on specific issues in the schools. My motivation is driven by the district’s excellence in education and the unprecedented growth that needs to be addressed. It’s important to continue the hard work the board has done to this point and manage the growth responsibly, not only in a financial sense, but also to make sure that there is equality across the schools.

4. Continued transparent communication to parents, students and teachers is a big task. I am concerned that what I am seeing and hearing may not be getting to everyone. Maintaining a focus on this is one objective. Another is leveraging my business background to manage the district’s growth. I led our company from a local single store business into a multi-store chain that serviced the entire country plus international destinations with a best-in-class e-commerce platform.

CITY COUNCIL GENERAL ELECTION 1. What inspired you to run to be the next City Council member in Liberty Hill?

2. Which, if any, Liberty Hill Boards or civic organizations have you served on and/or participated in?

3. What three issues in Liberty Hill are most important to you?

4. What solutions do you offer/propose regarding your primary Liberty Hill issue or concern?

ANGELA JONES 1. My inspiration to run for Liberty Hill City Council is two-part.

First, I see it as an incredible honor to serve the citizens of Liberty Hill and respect the responsibilities to do so wisely.

Second, there is an incredible opportunity to influence our city’s growth. I believe we need a prudent city council who will learn from the past while looking ahead to what’s best for the citizens of Liberty Hill in the future.

2. To date, Liberty Hill City Council will be the first civic organization I am seeking to serve on. Prior to this, much of my service has been through my church and my children’s school/sports organizations.

3. The three issues in Liberty Hill that are most important to me are: The safety and development of our roads and infrastructure Business, residential, and green space development The source and treatment of our city’s water.

4. I see our city’s roads and infrastructure as a blueprint for commercial, residential and green space development. I would propose a traffic and safety review of Highway 29 between CR 200 and the Intermediate School. Also, I would prioritize the repair, development and widening of roads as necessary. Lastly, I would suggest improvements on the historic downtown Liberty Hill area to make it safe and walkable for pedestrians.

CRYSTAL MANCILLA 1. The desire to see our growing community continue to flourish and be a voice for the people of Liberty Hill inspired me to run for city council.

2. I have had the privilege to serve Liberty Hill through the Chamber of Commerce and have supported small businesses in the community. During my time at the Chamber of Commerce, I discovered ways the City and small businesses could come together to help small businesses succeed and make our town a place people want to live and work.

3. I have three areas in which I want to make a difference for the City of Liberty Hill: checks and balances in the city budget, wastewater management, and creating a place where the community can connect through parks and recreation.

4. The council realized there was not enough money in the budget for three capital improvement projects and did not understand why. Mayor Liz Branigan asked for a budget review and all council members voted against it.

The answer to why is simple, a budget review. The council can not afford to keep sticking their heads in the sand. We need to know where the City’s money is going. The first thing I would do is support the mayor in a budget review.

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apples to apples CHRIS PEZOLD 1. I believe a community thrives when there is transparency in the government and the people are given opportunities to voice their thoughts. I have watched the erosion of transparency in Government actions and spending over the last two years with former Mayor Rick Hall leading this Council. My opponent is close with Rick Hall’s family. She also represents Steve McIntosh, current Place 1, with the recent listing of his home for sale. Our town cannot endure any more of this fraternity type ideology.

2. I have had the pleasure of serving on the Planning and Zoning Board for a number of years. I think it’s important to bring perspective and consider advice given when making decisions that affect the citizens of our community. I also believe we should have a City Planner committed to the betterment of our city.

Unfortunately, this position has been lacking and the improvement of our city suffers as a result. This will be corrected immediately.

3. (1) The Transportation Plan and Downtown Traffic flow. The first needs to be made public, the second needs community input. (2) Affordable Housing. Our median home price is like $90,000 more than Austin’s.

We need work force housing to grow our business community to offset our residential taxes and serve our residences locally. (3) Freedom of Speech as well as engaging the Community. We need to live up to our name....Liberty Hill.

4. Citizens are currently not allowed to speak freely in public comments but I believe the people should have a voice. The public should be aware of the Transportation Plan as it affects millions of dollars and impacts how citizens live in our community. Currently, this is not in public view and I am not sure my opponent will agree with my belief that it should be transparent. I also believe in open records at all times so people can see how money has been spent, which is also not disclosed at this time.

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KIM SANDERS 1. My inspiration comes from my desire to use my experience and skills as someone involved in local real estate and as a member and former president of the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce to offer leadership and guidance in the management of the unprecedented growth of what has been my hometown for the past 13 years.

2. Member, City of Liberty Hill Charter Committee Board member, Liberty Hill San Gabriel Parks Board Past President, Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Current board member, Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Community Connections Chair Treasurer, Liberty Hill Development Foundation 3. Planning for growing urban environment while maintaining a hometown feeling within our community.

Ensuring transparency of local government operations and decision-making, particularly in the areas of budgeting and expenditures reporting.

Support the growth of existing businesses with the City and make Liberty Hill a welcoming community for new businesses 4. Planning: Ensure City ordinances and regulations protect the “country feel” of neighborhoods without imposing onerous burdens on developers. Plan business areas to include significant landscaping to prevent a “concrete desert.”

Transparency: Ensure there is regular reporting to the City Council of expenditures against approved budgets, especially in regard to capital improvements.

Minimize the use of the Executive Session during Council meetings. Be responsive in a timely fashion to queries from the public about City operations.

Representation: Order a thorough review of City ordinances and regulations to reduce the burdens on developers and, especially, small business owners for permitting and operations. Ensure there is sufficient City staff to process requests in an expeditious manner.

Election Day, May 1 Last Day to Apply for Ballot-by-Mail: Tuesday, April 20

Early Voting April 19-27 Mon, April 19 - Sat, April 24 • 8am-6pm Mon, April 26 - Tues, April 27 • 7am-7pm LIBERTY HILL MUNICIPAL CT, 2801 RR 1869

Georgetown ISD Technology Bldg, 603 Lakeway Dr Leander Public Library Annex, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd Scan QR code for all early voting locations ‘and additional election info.

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by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@lhtxdigest.com photos (2019) by Kendra Lynn Photography

ARTS

WHIMSY & WONDER FESTIVAL RETURNS...

Experience Art Like Never Before

A

fter being canceled in 2020 because of the pandemic, the eclectic Whimsy & Wonder Festival is making a comeback. “People are craving community and being able to get out in public and spend time with one another, and we’re so happy to finally be able to do it,” says Katie Amsler, the City’s communications manager.

ARTS WONDERLAND Come May 15, downtown Liberty Hill will transform into a fusion of all things whimsical and wonderful from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Main Street, from Quick Service Garage to the Water Tower parking lot, will be filled with live music and art demonstrations, homegrown artisans, wine and food from local restaurants, stilt walkers, a caricature artist, a world-renowned magician, a Children’s Imagination Garden, and an Open Mic Show & Go. This year, Whimsy & Wonder will end on a high note with a new street

dance led by Dale Watson, who will perform on the Main Street Stage from 8 p.m.-10 p.m. The event promises to be an evening of awe and amazement, Katie says. “You don’t see anything like it in surrounding towns. Every aspect is incredibly unique.” Festival goers vary from kids playing in the Imagination Garden and the 21 and older crowd enjoying the wine tasting lounge, to retired folks strolling the streets.

“There is something for everybody,” Katie says.

HISTORY It’s hard to believe the city that prides itself on hosting many events – the Whimsy & Wonder, Independence Day Spectacular, and Christmas festivals – was once an event desert. But that’s how Katie remembers it when she moved here in 2015. She missed the events she had helped plan in other cities, so she got to work organizing a Fourth of July Festival with the help of the local newspaper she was working for.

It caught the City of Liberty Hill’s attention, and soon she was asked by the City to take its 2018 downtown art exhibit and make it bigger and better. The exhibit became the inspiration for the following year’s Whimsy & Wonder Festival. “Every year, hopefully it gets a little bigger and better,” Katie says.

While the festival also now boasts wine tastings, artisan vendors and street

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performers, art is the heart of the event thanks to the town’s unique art roots. In 1976, local artist Mel Fowler organized the first international sculpture symposium in the southwest, rallying 23 sculptors from six countries to create sculptures in Liberty Hill. More than 20 limestone statues, swirling stone structures, and metal sculptures now make up the Liberty Hill Sculpture Park at Liberty Hill Intermediate School.

HOW TO GET THERE Admission and parking for Whimsy & Wonder is free. Guests can park at Liberty Hill Elementary School, Fellowship Church, and Cross Tracks Church. Pedicab drivers will be available downtown to transport drivers to the festival from downtown street parking and parking lots. To learn more about Whimsy and Wonder, visit experiencelhtx.com/whimsyandwonder.

ARTS

...TO DAZZLE LIBERTY HILL

JUST FOR KIDS

MUSIC LINEUP

Children’s Imagination Garden in the Water Tower parking lot, 822 Loop 332. Special activities and performances will take place throughout the evening.

6-8pm: Big Wy’s Brass Band at Quick Service Garage

Doodle Wall: Add your own designs to the festival’s big Doodle Wall.

6-9pm: Sarah Hall at the Tasting Lounge (behind Stubblefield)

Giant Bubbles: Bubble artists will create giant, iridescent bubbles perfect for admiring, chasing, and popping in the Children’s Imagination Garden.

6-9pm: Oliver Steck, roaming musician

6:30pm and 7:45pm: Hideout Kids Theatre will offer two 45-minute shows under the gazebo in the Children’s Imagination Garden.

7:15pm & 8:30pm: Bike Rodeo. The Liberty Hill Police Department will lead two 30-minute Bike Rodeo sessions in the Children’s Imagination Garden to improve kids’ bike handling and traffic safety skills.

6-9pm: Vinyl Spin Art. Guests are invited to make their own unique artwork on a vinyl record with spin art machine artists.

6-8pm: Oatmeal Sound Company at Veterans Memorial Park

6-8pm: Open Mic Show & Go at the Main St Stage.

Artists and musicians sign up for a 3-minute slot to sing, play an instrument, talk about a work of art, recite a poem, or anything related to music and the arts.

8-10pm: Dale Watson at the Main Street Stage

LIVE ARTISTS

Jenny Gacy, tortilla portraits John Howell, chalk artist Liberty Belles, postcards home Melissa Slight, chalk artist Michelle Dickens, live illustrator

6-9pm: Vintage Guitar Station. Get the ultimate Rock Star experience with the interactive Vintage Guitar station.

Rosie Loves Art, live painter

6-9pm: Chalk Art. Children can check out a bucket of chalk and create their own sidewalk chalk designs.

Stephen Romero, caricature artist

Scott Wade, dirty car artist Scotty Roller Art, live acrylic artist TJ Maclaskey, ice sculptor

ARTISAN VENDORS

Amber Pearl Art Anna Altice Art of the Bead

Deborah Reinhard Photography Don & Kay Walker Gotta BB Me Gregory’s Special Creations J.R. Design Co. Leita Stewart and Sarah Mangum Lupita Blasienz Neighbors Way Home Goods Natural Curve Creations Glass Studio Odell Photography Wicked Hot Candles

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Operation Liberty Hill caring for our community

Operation Liberty Hill (OLH) is once again coming up on a milestone in our service journey. Many of you have followed and supported OLH over the past 10 years making it possible to provide the needed services to our community. When OLH started in 2011 we were located in an 800 square foot little house with a food pantry and limited clothing. We were serving about 45 families. In 2013 we moved to a 2000 square foot building on Hwy 29 and CR 200.

We couldn’t believe all the space. An anonymous donor paid our rent for a year and a half while we got on our feet. Donations to our small facility increased greatly and we had to store items (household, clothing, toys, etc.) in four different locations around town. We began having yard sales every 3-4 months which was an extreme amount of work considering we had to move items from each storage location, set up and take down. We also became partners with the Central Texas Food Bank which allows us to purchase food for pennies on the dollar as well as participate in the Food Rescue Program and receive food from local grocers at no cost.

We quickly ran out of room once again and began the tedious job of looking for another location. I talked to a non-profit executive director out of San Antonio and asked her what I need to know about moving forward and she said the most important thing you must do is to have a way to support your organization even when monetary donations are not coming in. Immediately I knew what would be the natural progression for OLH…. A Thrift Store! After a lot of praying and visiting several non-profits that housed thrift stores, my coworkers and I decided to move forward with the idea.

In 2015 our board chair found the facility where we are now housed. Williamson County has allowed us to lease the facility that used to house Life Springs Church on Hwy 183. It was so perfect for our food pantry and first thrift store and even had room for a church to meet upstairs. We were and still are in awe of how God has worked. We have not lost sight of what God called us to do almost 10 years ago; sharing the gospel, loving our neighbors and providing a variety of services to those in need in our community.

Our original lease was for 5 years with a 5-year option. Our first 5 years ran out at the end of October. We have been notified that they will extend our lease for another 5 years but at the end of that time it will go out to the public for bids which would take us out of the

running financially. God has a plan and a much better plan than anything we can come up with. We are busting at the seams now and need more space in the thrift store, food pantry, donation sorting area, offices, a volunteer break room and storage. When we moved to this location, we began serving Leander, Bertram and Briggs in addition to the Liberty Hill School District. During the COVID Pandemic it has become increasingly obvious how we have outgrown our current facility. With the increase in numbers of people we are serving we are ordering more food and due to limited space, our clients have to stay outside while they wait to be assisted.

In 2020 we assisted 1037 separate households consisting of over 2600 members. Those same households can come to our pantry every week which is equivalent to 11058 households with 36621 members.

With our future in mind, we are open to all possibilities, especially an opportunity to purchase the land where we are currently located.

We have invested over $100,000 in repairs, upgrades and equipment and truly do not want to leave this location. Since the first day we occupied this facility we have had a vision for a bigger better thrift store, which supports more than half of our programs) and move our pantry into the existing thrift store. Of course, we do not have the funds to purchase the property but we are confident that if it is meant for us to remain here that God will touch the hearts of just the right people that can make it happen. All of that being said, if it is not possible for us to remain in our current location, we would like to have 3-4 acres of land donated to us so we can begin applying for grants to build or IDEALLY it would be great to have existing buildings where we could just move in. God has unlimited resources and we are trusting him every step of the way.

If you have any suggestions, ideas or offers just let me know.

If you are interested in volunteering please go to our website operationlh.org and fill out a volunteer application. While you’re on our website check out the Golf Tournament Fund Raiser at Cimarron Hills on May 10th.

Susan Baker Executive Director

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

THE THRIFT STORE

Operation Liberty Hill is more than a just food pantry. We also offer clothing and household items free of charge to those in the community who need these services. Often, we can provide financial assistance to residents of the Liberty Hill ISD for utilities, prescription drugs and auto fuel. We assist with referrals to other social services. Future plans include offering our clients finance classes, nutrition classes and budgeting classes. OLH works hand in hand with other service providers in the area to provide job readiness and skills training, English 2nd language classes, and GED preparedness.

Our thrift store stays stocked with abundant donations from the community. Dedicated volunteers work tirelessly and joyfully sorting, hanging and displaying what comes in – from clothing, shoes and accessories to household items and small appliances. The inventory changes weekly. If we are unable to meet a client need, we keep a record of the need and contact the client when the item is available. In some cases, we also offer delivery of necessity items for our clients. We do our best to fill all emergency needs. The thrift store not only serves our clients, but also serves the community as a source of good quality, low-cost items. Hours of operation are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10:00-6:00,

THE FOOD PANTRY

FAITH-BASED NON-PROFIT

With the generous support of the people of Liberty Hill, Operation Liberty Hill is able to offer our clients a variety of healthy protein and produce choices and an assortment of canned and boxed foods each month.

Responding to the biblical call to love and serve one’s neighbor and to care for those in need, Operation Liberty Hill passionately works with our local community to provide food, clothing and other assistance to Liberty Hill’s families who need a helping Our pantry shelves are stocked through food drives in area hand. Spiritual guidance and prayer are provided not only in schools and churches, organizations and by individual donathe pantry but also in the Thrift Store Office. Without our faithful tions. Financial contributions from local churches, individuals, volunteers, OLH could not keep going. Equally, we rely on the and businesses allow us to provide the fresh items. Because of our partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank, we are able to people of our community to help make these services possible.

Your generous donations of non-perishable food and housepurchase some food items at greatly reduced prices, as well as hold items is always appreciated. Tax-deductible donations go offer fresh produce. The pantry is open Tuesdays 9:00-4:45:00, a long way to provide services to our clients. Volunteering your Thursdays 12:00-5:45 and Fridays at noon for Food Share. 512time and talents blesses both you and our clients.

778-5077

LibertyHillChamber.org · 1000 Tx-332 Loop · Liberty Hill · 512-548-5533 18

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by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com photos by Kendra Cofer

community

Hop (and Hope) Around the Hill

T

wo years ago a group of Liberty Hill boutique owners gathered together and asked, “How can we help support each other?” With a shared desire to show their love for the community, these small business owners came up with an idea to bring people out to support small businesses while also giving back. The result—“Holiday Around the Hill” and “Hop Around the Hill” boutique crawls.

This Spring’s “Hop” was no exception. After the 2021 Crawl, all of the boutiques donated a percentage of their proceeds to Liberty Hill’s ISD Education Foundation, which supports education opportunities outside the district’s budget. They proudly presented a check to Superintendent Steve Snell on March 30.

Then, they went a little bit further.

On Monday, March 22, the severe storm that hit much of Central Texas created straight-line winds in neighboring Bertram. The extreme weather, while not a tornado, resulted in wreckage all over town. One building in particular—Bertram Blend & Boutique—sustained significant damage.

shirt sales to Bertram Blend & Boutique to help them rebuild and continue to thrive.

THE EVENT Owners and shoppers alike report Hop Around the Hill had an excellent turnout, and boutique owners were able to present a check to Bertram Blend & Boutique April 6th.

One owner reflected the sentiments of the entire group, saying, “No matter what we face, Liberty Hill comes together in love, support, and prayer. This town becomes one. When someone has a need, Liberty Hill becomes the hands and feet of Jesus.”

The owner group also wants their neighbors to know that they hold special events frequently; posted on Instagram and Facebook, to allow everyone to support the small businesses that keep our Liberty Hill economy thriving. In the meantime, you can also support ‘Community, not Competition’ by donating to the Bertram Blend & Boutique GoFundMe.

Heartbroken, after learning about the damage to the boutique, but firmly believing in community over competition, our local “Hop” boutiques (mapped at right) wanted to do what they could to help their friends rebuild.

Collectively, the team worked together to create a t-shirt to sell, emblazoned with Small Town Strong (photo top right). They have committed every dollar they make from APRIL 2021  LIBERTY HILL DIGEST

Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Membership Levels

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education

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

Panthers’ Football Newcomer of the Year

T

he Panthers football team held their end-of-year banquet March 7 to celebrate players, trainers, coaches, and families who contributed to a spectacular and emotional season.

Last season’s Newcomer of the Year was “new” in every sense of the word. The 2020 season was not only Noah Long’s first year on the Varsity team, it was his first year in high school. Perhaps this, and many other awards were in the cards for Noah, as his mom Jima notes, “When he walked into his father’s office holding a football—as a toddler—we thought, well, I guess he’s going to play football.”

And play football he did, starting with anklebiters in 4th grade. Noah moved up to tackle football when his family moved to Liberty Hill, and has grown into what Coach Walker called “a great utility player.” Noah explains, “I play Running Back and Safety. I was surprised, and honored, by the award, but Coach [Kent] Walker knew if he needed me anywhere he could just ask and I was happy to back up any position on the field. I practiced on offense, defense, and on special teams.”

photo by Ralph Arvesen, courtesy Jima Long

Being on Varsity as a freshman was a little intimidating at first, Noah says. “Just going to high school made me a little nervous; the school is huge and I thought I’d get lost.

I worried the upper-class players wouldn’t really accept me as a freshman, but once practice started, they really took me under their wing. School didn’t seem so big and my friends were so happy that I made varsity; they supported me and now I have friends in every class.”

Noah says he finds much inspiration in his team members. “We put so much time in the weight room, and practice. Reaching the semi-finals was the payoff and it drives me to continue to do the hard stuff. We had great leaders this season, and playing for Coach [Jeff] Walker’s memory gave us all a drive that was unmatched. The bond our team has is incredible.”

Having made 2nd Team, All-District, Noah has definite plans to stick with football, but also enjoys baseball and track. Later in life, he wants to tailor his career around sports and, possibly, related health care for teams. Jima adds, “I see great things in his future; he never thinks he is working hard enough or doing a good enough job. That’s what makes a mom most proud.”

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RUNS IN THE FAMILY? Noah’s mom, Jima Dungan was just named teacher of the year at Burden Elementary school. Sister Aidynn will certainly not be far behind with accolades as well.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

Texas Wildflowers

BLUEBONNETS ARE WHERE THE SKY FALLS ON TEXAS

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

“ W H E R E F LO W E R S B LO O M , S O D O E S H O P E .”

L A DY B I R D J O H N S O N

E

ver wonder why Texas roadsides are covered in bright wildflowers each spring? It’s just another great benefit to living in a state as big as Texas—the great diversity of land and climate types we have. “Everything’s bigger...” may help explain why there are more than 5,000 native flowering plants in the state. Wildflower season is typically late March through May, which is also when our state flower, the bluebonnets, are in bloom.

Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

Yes, that is plural. In 1901, the legislature chose the Lupinus subcarnosus

as the floral emblem, but some people thought it was the least pretty of the subspecies they found. After much debate, in 1971, the state decided all varieties of bluebonnet would be the state flower.

Historian Jack Maguire explains, “The bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England, and the tulip to Holland.” In all cases, the appearance of the flowers continue to pay homage to brave Texas pioneer women who wore bonnets to shield themselves from the sun.

what makes Texas “Texas”

WHAT TO KNOW Experts say, based on our February deep-freeze, we can expect the peak of the 2021 season to be a bit later than normal, but, the bluebonnet watch has already begun in earnest.

Where and when you can find the best views tends to change from year to year. Weather and local conditions play a big part in bloom volume; a place that had a lush pillow of color last year isn’t guaranteed to provide a repeat performance.

But, if you do hear about a great spot, don’t wait, if you can help it. A few days can mean the difference between peak colors and untouched grass, and fewer fresh blooms with footprints all around because everyone shared your stash.

BACKGROUND While she was First Lady of the United States, Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson promoted and lobbied for national beautification. Mrs. Johnson pushed Congress to pass the Beautification Act of 1965, known as “Lady Bird’s Bill.” That bill limited the amount of signage and junkyards on the sides of U.S. interstates, and encouraged scenic improvement.

to delay roadside mowing until after the wildflowers bloom, which means late Spring or early Summer.

TxDOT also scatters 30,000 pounds of new seeds on Texas roadsides every year; a mix of grasses and wildflowers that set up the Springtime blooms. They then schedule and time their strip mowing to foster native plant growth, including wildflowers.

IF YOU’RE TEXAN...

While you won’t get your Texas card revoked for not getting the yearly bluebonnet photo of your children and family, you will certainly be missing out on this... sort of, required... annual pilgrimage.

They are distinctive to the state and there aren’t many things that make you stop and stand still better than a sea of wildflowers. And, you don’t want to be the only one without swashes of blue on your social feed.

Plus, getting out to the Hill Country and enjoying everything about being outside is a lot more fun than looking at other people’s photos, y’all.

Lady Bird certainly deserves credit for spreading Texas’ love for roadside wildflowers to the rest of the nation, and while some may try to tell you it‘s against the law to pick or cut down bluebonnets, it is not.

Lady Bird Johnson 1977

In 1965 she said, “Though the word beautification makes the concept sound merely cosmetic, it involves much more: clean water, clean air, clean roadsides, safe waste disposal, and preservation of valued old landmarks as well as great parks and wilderness areas.

To me…beautification means our total concern for the physical and human quality we pass on to our children and the future.”

The First Lady’s efforts were not just focused on Texas, but she did put a spotlight on wildflowers, which are ubiquitous here. Fortunately, the Texas Department of Transportation had been taking care of the state’s roadside wildflowers since 1934. Today, the agency continues

It is illegal to damage public property—like mowing a roadside— but a law that specifically prohibits damaging wildflowers is just legend.

It’s just nice to leave the fields full of color for the next visitor.

A ‘REAL’ LEGEND ...tells the tale of a Comanche tribe suffering after a bitter winter. The medicine men knew they would have to sacrifice their most prized possession to appease the Great Spirit. Overhearing their conversation, a young girl decided she must sacrifice hers—a little doll adorned with blue jay feathers. After everyone went to sleep, she burned the doll and scattered its ashes in the wind. The tribe awoke the next morning to see the hillsides blanketed in blue.

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belle chimes in

I Need a Hero I

feel fortunate to have been able to hear Apollo 16 Astronaut Charlie Duke at the Williamson County Mayors’ prayer breakfast last month. The grown-up side of me is still thinking about the bravery he showed— not walking on the moon, which was extraordinary, of course—but by telling a room full of strangers about his personal failures on his journey to finding peace with God. I fail all the time, but I am in no mood to tell anyone about it. Given I am not scheduled for my first space walk any time soon, it’s not like I have that far to fall in anyone’s estimation, but I’m still not in a rush to shine a light on it.

Speaking to an American hero in person, despite his mission being nearly 50 years ago, I couldn’t help but marvel at what he did, and how unfortunate it is that we aren’t honoring people like Charlie every day. No matter how many apps, gadgets, or planets we conquer, no other humans will ever be able to say they were Apollo astronauts. That said, there’s always the Belle side of me that can’t do anything without amusing myself in the process.

For instance, how does General Duke keep from responding to people who want to brag about, literally, anything, with a bit of a wink? “Oh, you have two million followers on Instagram? That’s nice. I don’t post many pictures but there is one photograph, lying on the moon, of me and my kids.”

“Yes, that is a nice Rolex. I don’t really go for brand name stuff, unless you count my hometown wanting to name an elementary school after me. My friend Buzz Aldrin has one in Virginia.”

“Oh, you created Facebook? That’s pretty cool; I ‘created’ a parking spot on the moon when I left the lunar rover there.”

Conversely, we know his tenacity wasn’t always about super-achievement. “Hmm, I spent 71 hours on the moon when I was 36. It was kind of challenging to know

where to go in my career and my goals after that, but go ahead and tell me about your mid-life crisis.”

As classy as General Duke is, I’m sure he never said, or even thought, any of those things, so I’m happy to be sassy for him in retrospect.

Naturally, one need not walk on the moon to be a hero to Belle. I also have great admiration for any person who can read a disagreeable social media post without flaming the poster and calling him/her a bunch of socially trendy -ist names.

I also love every adoptive parent, ever. Particularly the foster mom in Texas I just heard about who adopts orphans in need of organ transplants because they are not eligible for treatment unless they have a home. She is equally prepared and fortified to care for children who will have a lifetime of special needs, or whom she may grieve as quickly as they become family, just to give them the chance.

I might be good enough to gift someone a kidney, but she is next-level love. No contest.

My point, I guess, is that I don’t always subscribe to the worldly view of heroes. There are probably thousands of people worthy of our praise and thanks, and we will never know them because they don’t do it for Likes.

Some days, the bravest thing I do is open my e-mail.

Someone is always upset at something and it appears I’m never going to grow a writer’s thick skin. Honestly, I don’t know how people truly in the public eye get out of bed in the morning. Outside of that, I suppose I could confess that half the stuff I do as a mom, I do for Likes.

But, just from that one kid, and I’m only successful about 50 percent of the time.

So, like Charlie, I will continue look to the universe in wonder, and be grateful for the little blue ball that seems to be hanging in the blackness of space. And I will also be grateful there are still many blobs of carbon-based matter on it, however unfamous, who have the Right Stuff. To you, I say, “Godspeed.”

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facts to blow your mind

A SPRING BOUQUET Donald Weder holds the patent for plastic Easter eggs and shredded grass. He also holds a total of 1,411 other U.S. patents — 320 more than Thomas Edison (1,093).

William Schrafft invented the jellybean in the late 1800s. His original goal was to send them overseas to our soldiers. Americans eat enough at Easter to fill a nine-story building.

The Easter “bunny” stems from the Anglo-Saxon festival of Eastre, which featured a spring goddess who used the rabbit to represent fertility. When Germans settled in Pennsylvania in the 1700s, they brought the Middle-Ages bunny-with-eggs tradition with them.

During April showers, when it’s raining cats and dogs in the U.S., in Portugal it’s raining pocket knives. In France it rains ropes, and in Norway it is raining troll women. If you visit South Africa beware of raining old women with clubs.

Lemons make more sugar than strawberries.

Blue pigment doesn’t occur in nature. Blue birds, like the blue jay, get their color through light-scattering, microscopic beads spaced on each feather in a way that cancels out everything except blue light.

Strawberries aren’t berries—neither are raspberries and blackberries. True berries stem from one single-ovary flower and have two or more seeds.

Strawberries don’t fit that bill, but bananas, kiwis, and watermelon do.

April is the 423rd most common name in the United States.

April Fools’ Day may have begun in 16th century France when the observation of New Year’s changed from April 1st to January 1st.

Those who continued to celebrate on April 1st were called “April Fools.”

Sunflowers save lives... their stems have been used to fill life jackets.

Plus, floating sunflower rafts have been used to clean up water contamination from the Chernobyl disaster; their roots remove up to 95 percent of the radioactivity by drawing the contaminants out of the water.

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PARTING SHOT

by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com photos by Christina Tucker

Not a Baaaaa-d Idea to Get a Goat

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t’s Spring, and ‘tis the season to buy a goat. Last month, we visited Evans Livestock in nearby Burnet, an excellent local resource, to learn more about these playful bovines.

Owner and rancher Brandon Evans says he expects to have 600-700 goat kids before June; highly specified for breeding and showing at 4-H and FFA events. He adds, “These animals are not what people typically choose for Ag exemptions, but owners just need a large yard, or an acre or two to provide an adequate environment for them. Beyond that, I would say they require ‘medium’ maintenance.

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They aren’t like dogs; they don’t come when you call them, but they are social and friendly, and make good companion animals.”

Goats are also helpful cleaning up brush around the yard and, with all their playful romping, it’s no surprise they are always a petting zoo favorite.

Brandon invites readers who are interested in breeding to showing goats to connect on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the ranch to ask questions and learn more about show animals and hobby farming.

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

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON LIBERTY HILL, TX

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