Liberty Hill digest
NOVEMBER 2023
The Giving Issue 2023
SHOP LOCAL
GIVING THANKS
FFA COSTUME PARTY
To Give Big At LH's Boutique Stroll
& Giving Back This Holiday Season
Haunted Hooves & Ghoulish Glamour
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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Liberty Hill digest
Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC
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 fulfillment 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.
SENIOR WRITERS / COPY EDITORS Ann Marie Kennon Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton Rachel Strickland GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans Zion Eaton CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Christina Tucker Christianna Bettis DIRECTOR OF SALES • Allison Smith IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel
FROM THE EDITORS Dear Readers, As we approach the season of gratitude and giving, we bring you stories and events that capture the spirit of compassion and community. To celebrate our November theme, we've compiled a list of non-profit organizations that will help you support their noble causes during the holidays. To start, we are happy to share the tremendous growth of Brookwood in Georgetown (BiG) and its new tiny home community that will give adults with special needs the opportunity to enjoy a more independent lifestyle. Plus, as the weather cools, we’ve added a lot of warmth with three stories about the missions and needs of those who care for our animal friends. We have two features from Living Grace Canine Ranch, a sanctuary for special needs and senior dogs, where the bond between humans and animals knows no bounds. Then, learn about a heartwarming foster program at the Wilco Animal Shelter, which connects shelter animals with loving families, offering many animals a second chance at happiness. When you’re ready for some sparkle, get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as we take you through the enchanting Liberty Hill Boutique Christmas Stroll, featuring unique gifts, decorations, and a warm community atmosphere. You can also feel good about checking off everything on your list as a portion of their profits is being donated to Hope House. Or, if you’re looking forward to entertaining at home, elevate your holiday gatherings with expert tips on crafting exquisite charcuterie boards that will impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.
ADVERTISING INFORMATION info@lhtxdigest.com 512-746-4545
Liberty Hill Digest is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper. Copyright © 2023 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
Above all, all of us at the Liberty Hill Digest wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of giving. Thank you for being part of our community and sharing in the spirit of togetherness. With gratitude and warm wishes...
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N O V E M B E R 2023 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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INSIDE FEATURES 6 GIVING BACK
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Shop Small to Give Back Boutique Christmas Stroll
8 HOPE HOUSE
Providing Hope and Forever Homes
11 SHELTER STORIES
Happy Paw-lidays from the Wilco Animal Shelter
12 LIVING GRACE CANINE RANCH Forever Homes for Senior Dogs
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GRACE PLACE There's No Place Like Home
18 SILENT SAMARITANS
Support the Organizations That Support Williamson County
FAVORITES 20 WORTH THE DRIVE
Scots, Strolls & Salado
22 WHAT MAKES TEXAS, "TEXAS" Famous Texas Slogans
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24 FOOD
Taking Your Holiday Charcuterie to the Next Level
26 BELLE CHIMES IN
PSL Season, Again
28 PARTING SHOTS
FFA's 4-Legged Costume Party
ON THE COVER: Amy and Emily celebrate their new home at BiG's Grace Place | p. 16 Cover Photo courtesy of Erin Kiltz Visit our Facebook page for follow-ups to these stories, out-takes & hints to those upcoming.
LibertyHillDigest Read online at LibertyHillTXDigest.com 4
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NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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GIVING BACK
by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Deb Lohman
Shop Small to Give Big W
hile the six women behind the Liberty Hill Christmas Stroll own a variety of different businesses, all are connected by a love for their community and a goal to see it become a destination town. They are collaborating
again for the Second Annual Christmas Stroll on December 2, during which visitors can enjoy a relaxed holiday shopping experience with family and friends, while supporting six newer local businesses.
Blinded By The Light
Hill Country Hickster
Liberty Hill Outfitters
14125 SH 29
21 County Road 200 Bldg A
923 Main Street
Main Street Marketplace Glenny Bee Boutique 704 Main Street
15395 W SH 29 Ste. #104
Olive & Sage Boutique 201 St. Joseph Court #510
“It’s just a fun event, whether it’s just the additional deals the shop is doing that day, or the treats we’re going to have out. If you’re going to get out and do some Christmas shopping, definitely choose local businesses. You can see the variety of the shops that Liberty Hill has, and for such a small town we really do have quite a variety of shops.” -Danyel Cake, Liberty Hill Outfitters 6
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GIVING BACK
Scan the code to see a map of Stroll locations
WHEN YOU GO From 10am to 6pm on Saturday, December 2, visitors can sip, shop, and socialize while checking off their shopping lists during the Stroll. Each shop will have festivities, food, and fun, and checking in at each shop will register participants for the chance to win a grand prize valued at more than $400 if they visit all six boutiques.
“This is just such a fun and festive time of year, and doing our Christmas Stroll gives our community an opportunity to get together with family and friends and come out and shop locally,” Blinded By The Light owner Deb Lohman says. Main Street Marketplace owner Stacie Kenyon adds, “It’s also a great way for visitors and locals alike to discover the variety of shops, restaurants, and other local businesses we have here in Liberty Hill, while finding unique gifts and goods.”
“Stroll participants can look forward to a day of fun Christmas shopping, giveaways, snacks and sips, enjoying the company of friends, family, and community, all while giving back to our own Hope House of Liberty Hill,” Stacie says.
“We are stronger together, and we all love to support each other when our customers are looking for specific items or need suggestions for other places to go.” Stacie Kenyon, Main Street Marketplace
GIVING BACK Stroll goers can check off their Christmas shopping lists and feel good knowing a portion of their dollars will go to a good cause. “Each year we choose a different nonprofit organization to give back to, because after all, that’s what Christmas is all about – giving,” Deb says. This year, a portion of Stroll proceeds will benefit Hope House, a nonprofit that provides a long-term, forever home to severely mentally and physically disabled children and adults in Williamson and Travis counties as well as most of the surrounding counties.
Can’t come to the Stroll? Text “hopehouse” to 53-555 or scan the code to donate online to Hope House.
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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Spreading I
n 1966 a mother of five from Germany, Rose McGarrigle, moved to Austin and realized there was a desperate need for quality care for children who have physical and mental handicaps. With little help from state or local officials, she converted the garage of her west Austin home and took her red Volkswagen bus around Austin to facilitate serving these special children in her own home. In 1976, thanks to a generous land donation, the first Hope House was built near Liberty Hill. This great leap forward was made possible through the caring efforts of family and friends, a dedicated and devoted staff, and with the backing of various foundations within the state of Texas.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Erland Schulze
WHAT HOPE HOUSE DOES
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Today Hope House continues to provide a longterm, forever home to the most profoundly mentally and physically disabled children in Williamson and Travis counties as well as most of the surrounding counties. Residents are not able to communicate, and most are unable to speak so staff supervise and provide for their every need 24/7, including bathing, eating, toileting, and clothing. Development Director Erland Schulze says they are "like toddlers in an adult body and we provide them with all the needs of a large family. The children attend the Liberty Hill public schools, and we have speech and therapy programs for them as well. There are four homes in Liberty Hill now with 38 permanent residents. We are in the midst of construction for our fifth home, which will house another eight children.” Erland says there is a crisis in the local community and across Texas to find and provide permanent homes for disabled children, especially for those who are severely disabled. Hope House is one of only a few if any, long-term homes in this part of Texas that can care for children with these levels of disability and guardians often face a wait time of 10 years or more. He says, “One reason we remain full is the length of stay. Many of the children Rose took in during the
N O V E M B E R 2023 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
mid-60s are still living with us today. Our main goal is to take the children from ages 5 and up and keep them here for as long as they need us.”
HOPE HOUSE
IMPACT
FUTURE PLANS
Their success is taking in children who have no home— most have no parents—and they consider the children who came in the 60s their biggest successes as they are now senior citizens. Erland says, “We have so many residents who are homeless. Many don't find a permanent home with proper care and treatment. Some come to us with only the clothes they are wearing. No parents or relatives to go to or no guardians who can manage their severe disabilities. We have more than 50 direct care staff working three shifts a day to cover all this care in our four homes.”
• Stabilize Hope House financially so they can accommodate residents in the future.
He says another measure of success is seeing a child come to Hope House at an early age and graduate. While not the same graduation as other students, they do graduate from special ed programs in the public school system, which is a proud moment.
• Build more homes. “We can fill as many homes as we can build!” • Spread the story through program presentations to churches, clubs, and organizations. They are available to speak and love giving personal tours. MEET THE HOPE HOUSE HEROES As they have been for many years, staff plan to be at the Christmas festival. They also take residents out to public places like restaurants, stores, and local activities. HOW YOU CAN HELP • Help arrange short programs at men's or women's church groups, civic clubs, or organizations. • Donate: Consider making a donation to help them continue caring for residents and complete projects that need repair or work. Donations of household goods, supplies, and foods help defray those costs. Review their Amazon wish list at HopeHouseAustin.org/wishlist. • Volunteer: Due to the high level of disability, they do not pair volunteers with residents, but they do love help with the yards and landscaping. They also have a raised bed garden that is currently not being attended and they would be grateful to have gardeners revive it next spring. Erland says they are always open to funding ideas and are happy to entertain suggestions. facebook.com/hopehouseaustin hopehouseaustin.org/donate-online
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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SHELTER STORIES
contributed by April Peiffer
Happy Pawlidays
from the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter
T
he holidays are a time for love, celebration, family, and togetherness, so there’s no better time to invite a foster dog into your home than now. The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is excited to host its annual Home For The Holidays fostering program again this year. As part of the program, you can pick out any medium-to-large adult dog as a foster pet through the holiday season! Fostering is a wonderful way to help the shelter by making space for new pets in need of the shelter’s help, and it’s an activity the whole family can participate in. Giving back to the community through fostering is a gift for all, not the least of which is that lucky dog being fostered. Home For The Holidays is an important program for the shelter because it introduces people to the growing needs of the shelter and is a fun and meaningful means of doing so during a time when everyone is looking for ways to give back. Plus, staff and volunteers are able to enjoy their holiday just a touch more knowing their favorite furbaby is in a temporary loving home. And it provides that space that the shelter so desperately needs for the new dogs who come to the shelter.
So, why not give the gift of a home, love, comfy beds, and lots of extra helpings of holiday treats to a deserving shelter pet this season and enjoy the love and affection you’ll receive in return? Your foster pet will repay your holiday generosity of spirit with plenty of love and affection right back. There will also be plenty of tail wags and doggie kisses thrown in as thanks – we can guarantee that!
HOW IT WORKS It’s simple! First, scan the code to become a foster for the shelter, click the Join Our Foster Program link, and fill out the New Foster Registration tab. Then you can either make an appointment to come pick out the medium-to-large adult dog by emailing adoption@wilco.org or drop in any day of the week, starting at noon, to have staff help you choose your Home For The Holidays foster pet! Pro tip: Fosters can choose to adopt their foster pet at any time, if it turns out that the match is the perfect fit. Otherwise, simply bring the dog back to the shelter once the holidays are over. The program runs through January 2, 2024.
Love is Ageless - Celebrate Your Senior Pet NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL SENIOR PET MONTH
Any senior pets (over 7 years old) that have bloodwork performed during the month of November will automatically be entered into a raffle for free bloodwork. (Reimbursements will be issued after names are drawn.) Open 7 Days a Week MON-FRI 7am - 6pm | SAT & SUN 8am - 5pm 13100 W Highway 29 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | (512) 885-3446 | LIBERTYHILLAH.COM
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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LIVING GRACE CANINE RANCH
photo courtesy Rhonda Minardi
Forever Homes for Senior Dogs I
a little Pomeranian named Ginger. Someone picked her up and put her in Bob’s lap and she stayed there three hours. That happened for months and months. One day I told Rhonda, ‘I think I’ll take Ginger home a couple of days.’ She never went back.”
n 2019, Central Texas lacked community resources for senior pets to secure new companions after a pet parent’s passing or caregiving incapacitation, which created a burden for shelters and rescues. During that time, Rhonda Minardi, LGCR founder, saw hundreds of old dogs, orphaned or displaced, sitting in shelters without hope, needing vet care, and a slim chance of adoption. But, since 2020, hundreds of senior dogs with medical, physical, and behavioral challenges have experienced belonging, purpose, and wellness as LGCR residents in a new permanent home in Bertram. Rhonda says, “Look no further than an old dog’s eyes to gauge life – our residents’ eyes twinkle from a joy-filled life.”
After Ginger passed away in April, the couple continued to volunteer and, two months later, found themselves taking Penelope, another Pomeranian, home. Penelope is part of LGCR’s Senior to Senior foster program, in which the ranch provides for a senior dog’s medical needs and grooming to make it financially easier on senior foster parents. Penelope goes on errands with the couple, from the grocery store to Bob’s group meetings at the Sun City Worship Place. “She goes pretty much everywhere with us,” Vicki says. “LGCR is a huge blessing to us overall. We’re all like a family out there. It’s just a wonderful, wonderful place.”
WHAT WE DO Living Grace Canine Ranch is a senior dog life care sanctuary dedicated to serving senior canines across Texas that are displaced, unadoptable, and unwanted due to old age or illness. Some of their programs include: Let’s Shake Paws: Dogs provide companionship to seniors who are often at high risk for loneliness and depression. In addition, LGCR canine residents serve the community as visiting therapy dogs. Forever Foster: To increase lifelong senior dog companionship, LGCR supports all aspects of caregiving, including food, vet care, grooming, and medications.
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Forever Home: An endowment-based pet planning option that offers parents peace of mind when they can no longer care for their canine pets.
LASTING IMPACT LGCR has transformed countless lives—canine and human—like Sun City residents Vicki and Bob Moore. The two began volunteering at the ranch three years ago; Vicki managed whatever tasks were needed while Bob, who has memory and mobility issues, cuddled with the dogs. Vicki says, “A couple years ago, there was
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HOW YOU CAN HELP Since 2020, managing the cost of veterinarian services has been an ongoing challenge. With more than 100 senior dogs, the average monthly expense for veterinarian services, prescriptions, and therapies is $30,000. Monetary gifts and volunteering directly impact homeless old dogs’ quality of life and are profoundly appreciated. Visit LGCR online at LivingGraceCanineRanch.org or scan the code for additional information and upcoming events.
photos courtesy Living Grace Canine Ranch
LIVING GRACE CANINE RANCH
Blaze’s Vigilance Lives On by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Living Grace Ranch Guardian Etched in Stone
K
nown as the protector of Living Grace Canine Ranch, Blaze would stand guard at the front of the ranch and watch over founder Rhonda Minardi, volunteers, and the smaller dogs. “He was with me from the very beginning,” says Rhonda, who founded the senior canine sanctuary in Bertram three years ago. Before finding his way to Rhonda through a rescue group, Blaze had run away from his previous four homes. “It was like he was searching, and then we found each other. I ended up being his fifth and final home.” When the husky passed away in July, ranch volunteers decided to honor his memory by commissioning a bench that would allow them to sit outside with the dogs. They reached out to Florence-based stone carver Bob Ragan – whose work you may have seen in the monument at the Gault Site and Kneeling Soldier sculpture at the Veterans Memorial Park. “I visited the ranch for the first time to give a quote for the bench,” Bob says. “Just as I was explaining a memorial bench would cost upwards of $5,000, two little dogs began licking my ankles. I walked away offering to do it for free.” Rhonda was away on a business trip when Bob installed the bench at Living Grace in October. “When I got back, they had this surprise for me waiting,” she says. "It’s absolutely stunning. I gave Bob a hug, I was crying because it was so touching. Blaze’s memory will live on here.”
Seeing Rhonda's reaction made Bob’s efforts worth it. “She seemed very pleased with it. That made me happy.” Learning about Living Grace and its all-volunteer efforts also made the bench project a memorable experience. “It's such a nice thing that they’re doing. It made it fun to do,” he says, adding that “just playing with the little dogs was fun. If I’m going down that road, I’ll stop and pet the dogs.”
CHECK IT OUT Each year during Barksgiving (scan code), Living Grace allows the public to visit the ranch to see what the nonprofit is all about. From 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, November 18, everyone is welcome to come check out the new memorial bench, go on tours, and enjoy hors d'oeuvre and a glass of wine or punch.
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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Luxury homesites are selling now at The Canyons at HCH Ranch in Georgetown. Located off of FM 3405 in Georgetown in a private gated community, these heavily wooded home sites will offer expansive hill country views throughout. The Canyons at HCH Ranch feature luxury custom homes built exclusively by Grand Endeavor Homes. The Canyons is a place of unmatched natural beauty in the Texas Hill Country.
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I 1+ acre lots I Georgetown, Texas
N O V E M B E R 2023 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
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Situated on some of the most scenic land in Williamson County, The Canyons rests atop rolling hills looking out over the vast landscape. Offering an abundance of natural beauty and lush vistas, The Canyons has been carefully planned to integrate seamlessly into the natural environment. The development of The Canyons pays homage to the rich heritage of the land and encourages the continuation of this existing beauty to create a timeless natural environment. The homes in The Canyons are considered part of a cohesive element that melds the natural beauty with a place to call home.
512.766.HOME
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NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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BROOKWOOD IN GEORGETOWN
There’s no Place Like Home...
Grace Place!
O
ne of the first things Michelle Meyer will talk about after meeting you is how excited she is to move into Grace Place, a new tiny home community for adults with special needs at Brookwood in Georgetown (BiG). “We’re really happy for her. She’s going to have a safe place when we travel," her mom Cathy says. That peace of mind is one reason Michelle is excited to be one of the first residents at Grace Place. “My parents are worried about who will be with me when they go out of town. This is an answer to their prayers,” she says. “It’s so amazing living out here. I’m glad I have my own place. I’m very independent.” Kylie Gilleland, the inspiration for Grace Place, is also looking forward to a more independent lifestyle.
“She likes her quiet time and her space,” her mom Robin says. “This village will enable her to have that social aspect, but when she wants to get away, she can have her space.” For resident Bart Madeley, Grace Place also means “a lot more independence. It means a home, a place of connection. We’re having a blast over there.”
VIBRANT JOURNEY When Erin Kiltz searched for a place for her daughter Gracie, who had Down syndrome, the options for adults with special needs felt black and white, providing custodial care instead of the productive, meaningful life she wanted for Gracie. She ultimately found that in a residential and vocational community for people with special needs based in Brookshire, Texas. “The Brookwood model was beautiful, life giving, and productive. I felt like Dorothy on The Wizard of Oz after she opens her door and sees everything around her in color.” Grace Place reflects Erin’s journey to finding and replicating that model in Brookwood in Georgetown—a nonprofit organization that creates meaningful jobs for adults with special needs.
One thing Erin assured was that Grace Place had homes she would want to live in herself. “I think it’s important to have a beautiful place to live. I wanted them to have homes where they Bart Madeley and Emily Franz would be proud to invite The grand opening of Grace Place Phase 1 is their friends over and Dec 3 from 1pm - 5pm at 2148 CR 120 in Georgetown be able to thrive for a and will unveil their secure and inviting lifetime.”
black and white farmhouse-style community.
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N O V E M B E R 2023 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
WHY GRACE PLACE? Grace Place is answering the number one fear of every parent of a child with special needs – what happens when I am gone? Where will my child live and who will care for them? However, Grace Place will be much more than a beautiful residential community for Citizens; it will be what the café and shop are to BiG, a true destination. The vision for Grace Place includes three different lifestyle offerings for Citizens to choose to live in, plus revenue generating enterprises. The enterprises accomplish three things: jobs for citizens, income to sustain Grace Place, and the opportunity for the community to engage with Citizens, therefore changing the way the world views this population. Some of these enterprises could include a drive-in movie theater/amphitheater, chapel, wedding venue, and pet resort where Citizens can earn a pet care license so locals can board their family pets. With 127 acres, the sky’s the limit on what might evolve at Grace Place.
HOW YOU CAN HELP “Of course, this vision is only possible and dependent upon generous funding,” Erin says, “so as funding is provided, we will build. However, Grace Place always needs our wonderful volunteers.” Those interested can email volunteer@bigtx.org and you can check out BiG’s rolling wishlist at BrookwoodInGeorgetown.org.
citizen spotlights AMY MICHELLE MARLEY “My happy place” is how Amy describes her life at BiG. Thanks to the community for adults with special needs, she has found purpose, friends, a place to belong, and soon, a house of her own at Grace Place – a new residential community BiG is opening in December. “I just love it so much,” she says.
BART MADELEY “What I love most about BiG is the community itself – the people that I connect with and the friends we have. It’s empowered me and gave me more confidence to be me. It gives me purpose and meaning to be impacted on a daily basis and that we can impact others.” He has already started making a difference after being recruited to coach a baseball team at San Gabriel Park in the spring. “People look to Bart as a leader,” BiG founder Erin Kiltz says.
MICHELLE MEYER “It’s a wonderful program and I’m glad there’s something here for us,” Michelle says. “We’re one big family, it’s amazing.” Her mom Cathy has been thrilled to see her daughter blossom as a BiG citizen. “She loves this program, loves every job – the café, shop, everything. It’s changed her life.”
ROBIN GILLELAND VOLUNTEER, CITIZEN MOM For an empty nester mom of three children, one with special needs, BiG has given Robin a sense of purpose. “Kylie doesn’t like to miss work. I’ll ask if she wants to stay home sometimes. She’s like, ‘No!’ ” Robin appreciates the peace of mind BiG gives her. “I’m totally trusting, just so at ease and knowing that she’s being taken care of well. I know she’ll be here if anything happens to us, and she’ll be well loved and well taken care of.”
JOAN O’BRIEN VOLUNTEER, CITIZEN MOM As a mom of twin boys, one typical and one with special needs, Joan says she has had her foot in two worlds for the last 28 years. “As a special needs parent, you’re constantly told, ‘This is the way the world is and somehow they’ve got to fit in.’ At BiG, they adjust to the citizens. They’re like, ‘They see the world differently and react to things differently.’ There’s a lot of grace. “We’ll be driving home and Will will say, ‘Mom I love my life.’ ”
EMILY FRANZ “I love making new friends and being able to work with my friends.”
by Charlotte Kovalchuk photos courtesy Erin Kiltz
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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UNSUNG HEROES
by Ann Marie Kennon
silent samaritans I
n WIlliamson County, there is much valor and virtue in the hearts of the smaller, less well-known non-profits. These organizations regularly weave threads of hope and warmth into the fabric of the community, but are sometimes overshadowed by the glitz and glamor of the holiday season. These silent samaritans, perhaps unknown to many, will also labor to fill the lives of the less fortunate with the spirit of holiday joy and kindness. They sprinkle goodwill, expecting nothing in return but the smiles (or tail wags) of those they serve.
If you are looking to be a part of their stories this holiday season by donating or lending a helping hand, here is your invitation to visit their websites and social media pages to find out what needs they may have and how you can support. On the left are the agency names, and on the right, the demographics they serve.
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AGE of Central Texas
Health, Seniors, Veterans & 1st Responder
Ageless Aviation Dreams
Seniors
All Things Wild Rehabilitation
Animals
Annunciation Maternity Home
Women, Health, Victims, Children & Youth
BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse), Austin Children & Youth, Victims Blue Moon Equine Rescue
Animals
Caring Smiles Foundation
Children & Youth
Celebrating Heroes
Veterans & 1st Responders
Critter Crusaders
Animals
Doggies for Dementia
Animals
Driving Hope of Texas
Seniors, Health
Family Eldercare
Health, Seniors, Special Needs & Disabilities, Social Services & Poverty
HELP Crisis Assistance
Victims & Illness
Helping Hands of Georgetown
Food Insecurity, Homeless
Heroes Night Out
Veterans & 1st Responders
Jail to Jobs
Education, Recover & Restore
Key2Free
Victims & Illness, Women, Children
Laundry Love Georgetown
Children & Youth, Homeless, Social Services & Poverty
Lions Club
Children & Youth, Recover & Restore
Maranatha Home Health Care
Seniors
Military Order of the World Wars
Veterans & 1st Responders
Oak Ridge Disciple House
Recover & Restore
Pregnancy Help Center of Williamson County
Women, Children
Redeemed Ministries
Women, Victims & Illness
S.A.F.E.
Women, Victims & Illness
Stonehaven Center
Homeless & Housing, Special Needs & Disabilities
TEARS Foundation
Victims & Illness, Women
United for the People
Veterans & 1st Responders
We Are Not Broken
Victims & Illness, Women
WilCo FCA
Children & Youth
N O V E M B E R 2023 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
Family Owned Since 1939
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40209 Industrial Park Cir. in Georgetown $500 OFF 40209 Industrial Park Cir. | Georgetown Replacement Roof www.hallsroofing.net 512.864.7579 | hallsroofing@gmail.com Must be 20 sqrs or more. Cannot be hallsroofing@gmail.com www.hallsroofing.net combined with another offer. 512.864.7579 Cannot be used in insurance claims for money present coupon. We areback. thePlease Original Halls Roofing since 1939 11/30/23 Our Expires one location is in Georgetown
NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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WORTH THE DRIVE by Charlotte Kovalchuk photos courtesy of Salado Chamber of Commerce and Salado Museum
Scots, Strolls... Salado! I
n 2016, a major project on IH-35 threatened the small, historic town of Salado, just 45 minutes northeast of Liberty Hill, endangering local businesses with the construction that made it no easy feat to get into town. “Salado bounced back and has grown exponentially in the last five years,” Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amanda Organ says. “We get calls from people who haven’t been to Salado in a long time, wondering how the town is doing. It’s doing well, you should come check it out.” Each holiday season, thousands of visitors do just that during the Scottish Gathering and Highland Games as well as a Stroll that lights up the town with the sights and sounds of Christmas.
SCOTTISH GATHERING The Scottish Gathering has been, literally, strong for 62 years, but organizers have only recently been able to get the message out that the festival of learning and fun is open to everyone, no matter their ethnicity. "Come to the 62nd Scottish Gathering and Highland Games in Salado, Texas and step back in time to the world of ancient Scotland," says Lynette McCain-Jones, executive director of the Salado Museum and College Park. "Listen to the skirl of bagpipes and voices raised in ancient Scottish song. See men in kilts, the famous Caber Toss, and all the pageantry of Scotland." From November 10-12, the celebration of all things Scottish will feature a Calling of the Clans torchlight ceremony, highland games, music and dancing, Celtic vendors, a Scottish dog parade and costume contest, a Bonniest Knees contest, and clans from all over the U.S. who will enlighten listeners on Scottish history and genealogy. Scan the code or visit saladomuseum.org for the events schedule and ticket information. Ticket proceeds will support the Salado Museum and College Park.
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WORTH THE DRIVE
CHRISTMAS STROLL Carolers, a holiday parade, horse-drawn carriage rides down Main Street—each year Salado transforms into a Hallmark town. Save the date for the 63rd Salado Christmas Stroll December 1-3 and 8-10. “We’re delighted to host thousands of people in the little town of Salado every weekend,” Amanda says. A lighted Christmas parade will kick off the festivities at 6pm on November 30, followed by two weekend strolls during which visitors can enjoy pictures with Santa, food trucks, caroling, trolley and carriage rides, a live nativity, and performances of A Christmas Carol at the Table Rock Amphitheatre. While the Stroll is a fun event for locals and newcomers alike, it’s also a way to support Salado’s businesses, which will be open late for Christmas shoppers. “It’s kind of their make-or-break time of year,” Amanda says. For that reason, only Salado-based vendors will be featured throughout the Stroll. “It’s truly a community event.” Scan the code to learn more about the Stroll and the Salado Chamber of Commerce’s events.
The quaint little town of Salado is home to around 30 historic sites—from the museum that celebrates Salado’s Scottish heritage to the ruins of the first co-educational college in Texas. After burning down three times, the Salado College site now serves as a venue for bridal showers, weddings, military ceremonies, even an equestrian photoshoot and many other events. Plus, despite Salado’s exponential growth in the last few years, the stores on Main Street have remained the same, creaky wood floors and all. “It’s not like going into a strip mall. It’s unique,” Amanda says. NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS" by Linda A. Thornton
TeXas TalK: FAMOUS SLOGANS & THEIR STORIES
Texas is a stimulating place, full of the off-beat, the intriguing, and so much to pique our curiosity. Whether you're a native or a new Texan, you may have had a hankering to slow down and smarten up about the Lone Star state. It's important for us to make sure we know just what we are talking about, so we can regale family and friends with the stories behind what some of Texas’ famous slogans really mean.
COME AND TAKE IT When Texans refused to return the cannon that Mexico had loaned them for protection against Native Americans, it ignited the Battle of Gonzales in 1835, the start of the Texas Revolution against Mexico. Leave it to two young women from Gonzales to get Texas’ strong verbal point across. Caroline Zumwalt and Eveline DeWitt decided to create a flag as a symbol of defiance. The white flag with a black star, a black cannon in its center and the words “Come and take it” flew over the cannon and instigated the Mexican attempt to regain the cannon, using military force. The original flag was lost in the battle, but replicas can be seen at the Texas State Capitol, the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum and at Gonzales’ annual Come and Take It festival, where the original cannon is said to also be on display. It seems now that Gonzales wants to take back “Come and take it.” This motto of Texas’ independence, has been adopted by everyone from fast food chains to all sorts of movements and they are critical of those that utilize it without understanding its true meaning of independence, rebellion, and freedom.
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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"
Texans believe bigger is better, especially in relation to Texas pride. Big personalities, big egos, big hats, and big ranches – there’s a feeling of the Old West and its cowboy heritage that still lingers here.
Europeans abroad often ask Americans where they are from. Most respond, "The United States." Except for Texans; they simply say “Texas!”
REMEMBER THE ALAMO
DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS Who would’ve thought a slogan by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) would be awarded a plaque on Madison Avenue, New York’s Walk of Fame, and the distinction of being named one of the two annual slogans placed in the Advertising Hall of Fame. It all started when TxDOT realized a campaign to reduce littering was necessary. The phrase, targeted at 18- to 35-year-old males, was prominently displayed on road signs, major highways, and television, radio and print advertisements. Between 1987 and 1990, the campaign was credited for reducing litter on Texas highways by 72 percent.
Wanting a republic of their own, instead of Mexican rule, Texians made a courageous stand at the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. When a Mexican army of 1,500 stormed the Alamo Mission (now San Antonio), 300 Texians held on for 12 days before they were finally defeated. Infuriated by the cruelty to its soldiers by Mexico’s General Santa Anna, the Texians regrouped and reunited even stronger. Shouting “Remember the Alamo!” they defeated the Mexican Army at the Battle of San Jacinto, which ended the Texas Revolution. Today, the battle cry “Remember the Alamo” is synonymous with strength and honor. The Texas Legislature now owns the old Alamo Mission, one of the most popular tourist sites in Texas, and has made the Alamo chapel an official Texas State Shrine.
The book Don’t Mess with Texas: The Story Behind the Legend, tells of how the slogan became identified with Texas swagger and appears on countless tourist souvenirs, even though the phrase is a federally registered trademark.
EVERYTHING IS BIGGER IN TEXAS Texas is big, only second in size and population to Alaska. Comprising 7.4 percent of the entire United States, its cities are also making headlines as incredibly fast-growing, compared to the rest of the country. The Texas capitol building is the largest in the country, its San Jacinto monument is larger than the Washington Monument, and its Texas A&M University football stadium is the largest, by capacity, in the Southeastern Conference.
Norwegia ns use t he word “Texas” as slang for “Crazy” or “Wild ” a s in “Did you see the e n d of the g It was to ame?! ta “Det var lly Texas!” helt Tex as!”
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FOOD
by Ann Marie Kennon
better boards & beyond Taking your Holiday Charcuterie to the Next Level
During the holidays your boards can be as visually stunning as they are brimming with festive flavors. Plus, they offer the ideal opportunity to capture picture-perfect moments for your holiday social media feeds. This holiday season, beyond the usual cured meats and cheeses, enjoy a culinary holiday renaissance, featuring everything from yuletide pancake boards to DIY decorating spreads, offering an even more delightful and festive culinary experience.
s ' boards
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S'MORES OPTIONS • 1 box family size graham crackers • 1 box chocolate grahams • 2 bags giant roaster marshmallows • 1 bag marshmallows • 3 one-lb milk chocolate bars • 3 cookies and cream bars • 9 Reese's peanut butter cups • 9 Reese's white chocolate peanut butter cups • 2 white chocolate bars • Mega Stuf Oreos • 1 jar marshmallow fluff (for no-cook s'mores) • 1 jar cookie butter • 1 jar peanut butter • 1 jar Nutella • strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries
FOOD
BREAKFAST BOARD • Buttermilk pancakes • Baked bacon • Scrambled eggs
When the bacon is cooked, turn the oven down to 200°F and slide the pancakes in to keep everything warm while you scramble eggs and start arranging everything on the board.
• Maple syrup
Arrange the cooked pancakes down the center for the board. Finish by placing the baked bacon and scrambled eggs on the left side of the board.
• Fresh fruit
Serve immediately while everything is warm. Enjoy!
• Butter
• Chocolate chips • Peanut butter • Nutella • Whipped cream
Celebrating the holidays often means entertaining house guests, so when they wake up hungry, start by washing and slicing the fruit to put on the board first. You can also add syrup, butter, chocolate chips, Nutella and peanut butter any time. While the bacon is baking, get started on the pancakes.
Charcuterie Chalet You can always build your foundation with a gingerbread house kit, but for a complete DIY, cream cheese is your best bet for charcuterie chalet glue. You can also use it to make a beautiful, smooth snowy drift (on the rooftop or elsewhere). • Triscuits are excellent for wall construction. • Salami rounds make great roofing tiles. You can also use ham or prosciutto to make rosettes for your landscape. • Pretzel squares are great for window frames. • Dried fruit pieces add a pop of color for any type of decor, plus, half slices of dried oranges as window awnings/coverings or decorative transom. • Rice or popcorn cakes cut in half make great doors and you can attach a cranberry as a doorknob. If you are vibing for a rustic scene and have plenty of pretzels on hand, you can stack them on your exterior walls for a great log cabin look.
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PSL Season, Again
I
t’s just past Halloween so naturally it’s time to start ignoring the resolution I will surely make to lose weight after the holidays. Incidentally, Costco won the “first Christmas decoration” battle — before the first day of school. I don’t even plan not to gain weight over the holidays any more. I passed my 35th birthday a long time ago. You know—that age when you know you HAVE to exercise a little more to compete with the stay-at-home yoga moms in skinny jeans carrying green smoothies in matching Yeti mugs. At age 40 I realized exercise alone is a waste of time so I actually have to eat less no matter how much I work out. Wait for it… hahahahaha. The cashier at McDonald's sees me three times a week and still says, “Thank you, come again,” as if she doesn't even know me and there's not a 1,000 percent chance of that happening. And now that I’m well past the off-ramp to 50, I just don’t care any more. My bad habits are burned-in at this point and like all those crazy ads on TikTok have shown, I will do anything to lose weight except eat right and exercise. So here’s how it works during PSL (pumpkin spice latte season). October 20: buy more Halloween candy because I ate all the chocolate I got in September before the seasonal prices kicked in. November 1: Change radio pre-set to Sirius XM Hollyyyyy to get in the mood. Eat all the leftover Smarties I had to buy because I ate all the good stuff before October 20 and had to choose between candy corns or Smarties at the last minute. There’s only one way to eat candy corns… first, throw them in the trash. If you’re like me, they are lying in the can right next to those disgusting orange marshmallow peanuts. What diabolical sugar-Satan invented those nasty chalk bombs anyway? Thanksgiving: It’s a good idea to sign up for a Turkey Trot or some other kind of fundraising race. I think it’s a nice thing to do to remind myself of those who are less fortunate during the season of giving. But then, I’m so out of shape at oh, say… the quarter-mile mark, I have to stop and get sick in the bushes. On the plus side of that, I won’t feel as much guilt later when I shovel in turkey and more calories than Michael Phelps on butterfly day. 26
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While I’m on running, who invented marathons? Okay, I know it was a guy in Greece and there was a battle. I suppose I might run during a war, but seriously, I can’t remember the last time I Googled anything; restaurants, job sites, or doctor offices, that I didn’t include “within 10 miles” in the filter. I won’t even drive 26.2 miles. Early December: And so begins the round robin of Christmas brunches, lunches, dinners, parties, cookie exchanges and, in my case, a visit from Insulin Claus. Plus, it’s a rule that I have to have savory snacks and thick drinks to watch “The Grinch” and “It’s a Wonderful Life”. That’s tradition so there’s really nothing to be done there. December 20, begin wearing yoga pants, or Santa suit to hide what shakes, when I laugh, like a bowl full of jelly. Also start stocking up on alcohol for the family events soon to come. Most of the time I don’t visit as much as I just sit on the floor with the dog and take notes for future Belle Chimes In columns. It’s good therapy. By December 29 I’m ready to rip out my radio because I’ve heard Mariah Carey say all she wants for Christmas is meeeee about a billion times, so I go back to my regular pre-sets; Classic Rock, 80s (which is actually also 'classic' now), Fox News, and USA Comedy. I frequently just move straight up the dial to the jokes when I simply can’t take the news any more. Naturally, also during this last week of December, I’ll also get at least a half-dozens cards that were mailed late and inevitably they are from people I forgot and it’s too obvious if I send them one now. Next year I’m just scheduling Facebook posts. January 1: Wake up bright and early to start my new exercise regimen. I have no hangover because I’m too old to stay up to midnight any more. Around noon I’ll decide there is too much football to watch so I don’t have time to exercise. Cycle complete. And by that I mean, cycle of life. I’m still not touching a bike.
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Liberty Hill digest
Liberty Hill digest
N O V E M B E R 2022
A P R I L 202 2
Living Beautifu Blinded by th April Special
e Light
Focus
ment & Real
Home Improve
FESTIVAL FUN & FAN
Shop Small to Give Big
llyLIBERTY HILL CHRISTMAS STROLL Uniting for Many Causes
10
Estate
al Advice for Local, Profession gn | Interior Desi | Landscaping T Home Decor Projects A P R I L 2022 LIBER T Y HILL DIGES Upgrades | DIY
JUNE 2023
FARE
MAY 2023
Big Donors
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 10AM-7PM • p. 6
Giving Thanks in Texas
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LEADERSHIP 4-H Students & Sustainability
nder WORLD IN LIBERTY HILL
Whimsy and Wo Your Guide to Art, Music, and Festivals
Festivals: Worth the Drive!
A MAGICAL
BOND 2023 What's New for LHIS
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NDS Foster to Adop t this Summer
Mindfulness and Well-being with JP2
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STATE OF THE CITY What's New and What's Coming
EXPAND YOUR REACH WITH THE GEORGETOWN VIEW!
GREAT OUTDOORS Get Familiar with Georgetown's Parks and Trails
ALL ABOUT THE KIDS Meet GISD's New, Next-Level Superintendent
SAYING GOODBYE ...Georgetown Style
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COVERING GEORGETOWN SINCE 2010 JIMMY VEGA'S SMOKEHOUSE own's Firing Up Georget BBQ Scene
Read online at LibertyHillTXDigest.com
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& BURGERS, BBQ GUIDE BREWS TRAIL Your New Favorite List Summer Bucket
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NOVEMBER 2023 LIBERTY HILL DIGEST
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PARTING SHOTS
photos courtesy Liberty Hill FFA Booster Club
HAUNTED HOOVES AND GHOULISH GLAMOUR: FFA Booster Club Hosts Inaugural Halloween Show In October, the Liberty Hill FFA Booster Club hosted its first annual Spooktacular FFA Chapter Showmanship Show that gave FFA livestock show kids the opportunity to show off their hard work and dedication to their projects. Following the showmanship competitions for both parents and kids, the club threw in something a little different – a costume contest. “The uniqueness and creativity that each of these kids possess definitely made this a night we hope they never forget,” FFA advisor Coltin Wiesner says.
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The FFA awarded these hardworking kids with 13 buckles, as well as first through third place ribbons and supplies to care for their projects. Coltin thanked Slabb BBQ for donating food to feed the kids, T bar Z for the food and prizes, AGandy & Co. for their donations, and to all the parents who made the event possible. Anyone interested in being a buckle sponsor for next year’s event can contact the booster club at lhffabooster@gmail.com.
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