Issuu

DECEMBER 2025

A Life of Service, A Season of Gratitude HONORING SENATOR CHARLES SCHWERTNER’S WORK FOR TEXAS FAMILIES

DECEMBER FOCUS How to Holiday KIDS & EDUCATION Evolution of the Christmas Tree HOLIDAY RECIPES A Taste of Good Fortune

--FAMILY- EMERGENCY ROOM

-----II GEORGETOWN 1--1 Use Your In-Network Benefits With Us!

Physician Owned & Operated

Emergency Care for Children & Adults

G * * ** *

Conveniently Located Between Walgreens and HEB

Over 1500 5-Star Reviews

■ Immediate Service and Test Results ■ On Site CT, X-Ray, Ultrasound and Lab ■ Open 24/7

W University Ave

■ No Wait Times ■ Personalized Time and Attention ■ Upfront Pricing

(512) 690-4590

www.GeorgetownFamilyER.com D E C E M B E R 2 02 5  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E ST

CONTENTS

WHO WE ARE Liberty Hill Digest is more than a magazine—it’s a connector, storyteller, and champion for our community. Since 2020, we’ve shared 550+ stories and mailed 400,000 free copies to keep Liberty Hill informed and inspired. Each issue highlights local people, nonprofits, students, first responders, and city events that define who we are. Our annual Giving Thanks & Giving Back edition and rotating nonprofit column amplify causes that strengthen our city. At our core, we celebrate what’s good, foster connection, and help Liberty Hill thrive—together.

DECEMBER FEATURES 3 / SEN. SCHWERTNER'S LIFE OF SERVICE 6 / EVOLUTION OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE 8 / FOOD FOR GOOD FORTUNE

COLUMNS 10 / CHAMBER CORNER • GROWTH & GRATITUDE 11 / BELLE • ON THE ROAD FROM EMMAUS

ASK A PRO 5 / ASK A PRO • MOORE LIBERTY BUILDINGS

ASK A PRO FEATURED PROFESSIONALS Meet our Pros - industry professionals, business owners, and subject matter experts from leading local companies who share their knowledge and expertise to bring readers practical advice, how-to tips, best practices, and current and emerging trends. To learn more about becoming a Featured Professional, contact info@lhtxdigest.com or 512.746.4545. Hall's Roofing & Sheet Metal, LLC Family owned since 1939. Roofing professionals specializing in full-service roof repair, installation, and replacement. HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579 Hanson Insurance Emily Hanson Sixteen local brokers, specializing in Medicare, and ready to assist with all your health insurance needs. HansonFirst.com • 512-8176906 • NPN #18816155 Moore Liberty Buildings Chad & Amanda Moore Thousands of structures built since 2015. MooreLibertyBuildings.com 512-548-6474

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

PUBLISHER Cathy Payne

CONTENT MANAGER Camy Reynolds

SENIOR WRITERS / COPY EDITORS Ann Marie Kennon Charlotte Kovalchuk

IT/WEBMASTER Jesse Payne

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans • Marilee Goldoni Ann Marie Kennon

CONSULTANT W. Ben Daniel ADVERTISING info@lhtxdigest.com 512-746-4545

Liberty Hill Digest is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

Copyright © 2025 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. SCAN THE CODE FOR E-SUBSCRIPTION AND NEVER MISS AN ISSUE.

stor y a n d photos cont ri b ute d by t h e of f i ce of Sen i o r Ch ar l e s Sc hwe rt ne r

COVER FEATURE

A Life Built on Service Senator Charles Schwertner's Texas roots, medical and political career, and legislative work continue to shape the lives of families across the state.

harles Schwertner is a sixth-generation Texan, born into a long line of farmers and ranchers whose deep roots shaped his commitment to service and community. His father, a decorated officer in the U.S. Air Force, and his mother, a mental-health nurse, instilled in him a love of country and a lifelong commitment to helping others. Growing up, Schwertner spent time working in his grandfather’s pharmacy and helping on the family ranch, experiences he credits with shaping his values and strong work ethic. This close-knit, multi-generational Texas upbringing continues to influence his personal life, his work as a physician, and his dedication to public service. His wife, Belinda, was his medical school sweetheart. After completing her residency in obstetrics and gynecology, she dedicated her practice to caring for patients throughout Williamson County and the greater Central Texas region. Following a successful medical career, Belinda later earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law. The couple now resides in Georgetown, where they raised their three adult sons, Carson, Zachary, and Matthew.

A Career in Care

Senator Schwertner's path to medicine began with a B.S. in Pharmacy from the University of Texas at Austin, making him the only pharmacist in the Texas Legislature. After completing his residency in orthopedic surgery, he spent the next two Political advertising paid for by Texans for Charles Schwertner

decades restoring mobility and improving the quality of life for patients across Texas. Even while serving as a State Legislator, he continues to treat thousands of patients each year. As a physician legislator, his medical background lends him credibility among peers and constituents, particularly when addressing health care related issues. His experience and expertise gives him insight into health policy, regulatory issues, and reforms needed to ensure patients stay in control of their healthcare decisions.

A Safety Net for Kids

One of Senator Schwertner’s most notable legislative accomplishments has been his work to reform the child-welfare system. While serving as Chair of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee from 2014 to 2019, he championed legislation to improve how the state cares for children in foster care and address deficiencies within the system. In 2017, he authored landmark legislation that requires children entering foster care to receive comprehensive assessments within 30 days, mandates faster medical exams for children removed from unsafe environments, streamlines investigations of abuse and neglect, and encourages community-based, non-profit case management for high-needs youth. Recognizing that vulnerable children represent the state’s single greatest responsibility, Senator Schwertner sought ▶ D E C E M B E R 2 0 25  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

COVER FEATURE solutions that prioritize accountability and collaboration with faithbased and community organizations. His approach reflects a deep belief in giving children the stability and care they deserve, helping them stay closer to home and ensuring they receive the support necessary for healthy development.

During this holiday season, we pause

to give thanks and provide and care for those less fortunate. ~ Senator Charles Schwertner

Impact Beyond Legislation

He continues to witness the difference such efforts make through organizations like the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, which provides hope, healing, and justice for children and families affected by abuse and violence. The work of these organizations is critical, ensuring vulnerable children receive the support, protection, and opportunities they need to build brighter futures. Earlier this year, he visited the Williamson County CAC to deliver a $65,000 check raised during his Governor for a Day celebration, a record-breaking effort that contributed more than $260,000 to programs supporting children and veterans across Senate District 5.

Serving Texans Today and Tomorrow

Today, Senator Schwertner serves as Chairman of the powerful Senate Business & Commerce Committee, overseeing policies in utilities, banking, technology, insurance, and telecommunications. He also serves on the Senate Committees on Finance, State Affairs, Economic Development, and the Legislative Budget Board. From the pharmacy counter and the family ranch to the operating room and the Senate Floor, Senator Schwertner’s life reflects a continued commitment to hope, healing, and service. Whether in the clinic, the legislature, or the community, he strives to strengthen families, empower children, and ensure that the most vulnerable Texans receive the care and support they need to thrive.

ROOFING

SERVICE

Need reliable roofing services?

Roof Repair

Shingle Roofing

Gutter Cleaning

Storm Damage Repair

Metal Roofing

Roll Off Dumpster Rentals

Roof Installation & Replacement 512-864-7579 4

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

www.hallsroofing.net

We Offer Free Inspections

ASK A PRO • HOME & GARDEN

Moore Liberty Buildings • Chad & Amanda Moore Thousands of structures built since 2015. `MooreLibertyBuildings.com • 512-548-6474

Tips for Building an ADU, Casita, or Backyard Office Dreaming of a quiet office space, steps from your home? Want to move mom close but not inside your home? Ready for a backyard entertainment space? Small accessory structures, separate from your main dwelling, are quite popular in Williamson County. If you’ve been thinking about building one of these versatile structures but don’t know where to begin, these key considerations will help you understand where to start. ADU (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT) / CASITA / HOME OFFICE: Though they have different names—usually assigned based on intended use—these structures are fully finished with insulation, wall coverings, flooring, HVAC, electrical, and sometimes plumbing. 1. ARE YOU ALLOWED TO BUILD AN ADU ON YOUR PROPERTY?

2. DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH POWER?

Outside city limits, no HOA/POA—usu-

amps of electrical service. An elec-

ADUs typically need 220V, 60-150

Fresh water will also have to be routed from an accessible location on your property to the new building.

ally yes. Check your property survey

trical inspection will determine if you

4. BUDGET?

for any easements, building setback

have ample capacity to handle this

lines or other restrictions regarding

additional load.

If you have the space and clearance to

building placement. Outside city limits, inside a neighborhood HOA/POA—it depends. Check with your HOA. One, large, local, master-planned community requires sheds to be no taller than 8’, while it allows ADUs to be over 11’ tall! Typically, you’ll want a peak roof height of at least 10’ to provide a comfortable indoor space. Inside city limits—You will need to check with the city to see if ADUs are allowed in your neighborhood. Cities are concerned about overall size, height, access, and permits. Yes, you will have to pull permits when building inside city limits.

build an ADU, the next step is to look

If you do not have enough power, you

at a budget. A basic backyard office/

will need to upgrade your service.

workshop/hobby space is going to

3. WHAT ABOUT A BATHROOM? If you’re on a septic system, you need to consider if you are adding load or just shifting it from using a bathroom in the house to the new building. Any septic changes are governed by a permit from the county. If you are on a sewer system, you’ll tie

start at about $30,000. A complete one bedroom, one bath casita with a kitchen is going to be pushing $150,000, if not more, depending on driveways, and masonry, plus electrical and plumbing connections. Larger units with 2-3 bedrooms and 2-3 bathrooms will be in the $300,000 range.

the ADU wastewater into the sewer. Depending on where that drainpipe is located on your property, that can entail trenching through much of your property to make the connection.

Whatever name you give your dream building, tackle these steps and you’ll be on the way to realizing your dream, and hearing, “It’s move-in day!”

D E C E M B E R 2 0 25  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

KIDS & EDUCATION

The Evolution of the

Christmas Tree How a Simple Evergreen Became a Global Symbol of Joy

by Ch a r lot te Kova lc h u k

Towering evergreens strung with lights, glass baubles, and family heirlooms—few sights capture the spirit of the holidays quite like the Christmas tree. Today, it stands proudly in homes, city squares, and shopping centers around the world. But this glittering tradition has deep, surprising roots that stretch back centuries and across continents. WHERE IT ALL BEGAN The story begins in 16th-century Germany, where devout Christians began bringing decorated trees into their homes. These early evergreens were simple by modern standards—adorned with apples, nuts, and candles instead of garlands and ornaments. The apples echoed an older medieval custom: during “Paradise Plays” performed on Christmas Eve (which was once celebrated as Adam and Eve’s Day), evergreen boughs hung with fruit symbolized the Tree of Knowledge from the Garden of Eden.

EARLY SPARKS OF TRADITION Before long, the idea of the decorated tree spread across Europe. In Alsace, France, local markets sold small firs limited by law to “eight shoe lengths”—a modest four feet tall. Meanwhile, in Riga, Latvia, members of a merchant’s guild were recorded in 1510 decorating a tree with roses, a symbol of the Virgin Mary, before burning it in celebration. These early trees carried both Christian and pre-Christian meanings, representing eternal life and the promise of light during the darkest season of the year.

MARTIN LUTHER AND THE LIGHT OF WONDER One legend credits Protestant reformer Martin Luther with adding candles to the tree. Inspired by the way starlight shimmered through the branches of evergreens on a winter’s night, he supposedly brought a tree indoors and lit it with candles to share that wonder with his children—a gesture that forever linked Christmas trees with light.

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

KIDS & EDUCATION

ROYAL APPROVAL AND VICTORIAN ELEGANCE As German families began to emigrate, they carried the custom with them. The Christmas tree reached England in the early 1800s but did not become fashionable until Queen Victoria and her German-born husband, Prince Albert, were sketched with their children around a decorated tree in Illustrated London News in 1848. The image captured the public imagination, and within a few years, Christmas trees had become a staple of British holiday décor.

FROM IMMIGRANT TRADITION TO NATIONAL ICON Across the Atlantic, German settlers in Pennsylvania introduced the Christmas tree to America in the 1800s. Initially seen as a quaint ethnic tradition, it gradually gained popularity—especially after President Franklin Pierce displayed the first White House Christmas tree in the 1850s. By the late 19th century, department stores were selling ornaments, tinsel, and electric lights, making the once humble evergreen a centerpiece of modern holiday celebration.

CHRISTMAS TREES AROUND THE WORLD

decorated by spiders on Christmas morning. In the Philippines, trees are often adorned with parols—star-shaped lanterns symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. Even the material has evolved: from real pine and fir to sustainable artificial versions, driftwood sculptures, and creative digital displays.

EVERGREEN SPIRIT: HOPE THAT ENDURES More than 500 years since families in Germany first brought evergreens indoors, the Christmas tree continues to evolve—bridging old traditions and new technologies, faith and festivity, light and life. Whether standing in a quiet living room or glowing at the heart of a bustling city, it remains what it has always been: a symbol of hope that endures through the winter and beyond.

BRING THE TRADITION HOME If reading about the centuries-old charm of Christmas trees has you dreaming of your own perfect evergreen, you don’t have to look far. Grigsby Farms in Salado is taking pre-orders for their 2025 Premium Fraser Firs, ensuring you get the height, fullness, and fresh-cut fragrance your family loves. Support a beloved local farm and reserve your tree early at GrigsbyFarmsTX.com.

Today, Christmas trees can be found everywhere from Tokyo to Rio de Janeiro, each culture adding its own flair. In Ukraine, shimmering cobweb ornaments honor a folk tale about a poor widow whose Christmas tree was mysteriously

D E C E M B E R 2 0 25  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

HOW TO HOLIDAY

by Ca my Rey nolds a nd A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

AROUND THE WORLD

in 12 Bites

NEW YEAR'S LUCK AND LET’S-TRY-THIS-AGAIN ENERGY If there’s one thing humanity agrees on, it’s that good fortune can’t resist a well-timed snack. From noodles that promise longevity to peas that look like coins, cultures everywhere have found ways to chew their way into a better year. So grab your fork (or chopsticks, or hands—no judgment) and take a tasty little tour of global good luck traditions. After all, this might finally be the year our fortune cookies mean it.

Hoppin’ John

In the American South, black-eyed peas, greens, and cornbread form the trinity of New Year’s luck: peas for coins, greens for cash, and cornbread for gold. A humble plate that quietly whispers, “You got this.” In Europe, they focus on the greens, which symbolize wealth and prosperity as they have a shape resembling folded money. The more you eat, the more "green" comes your way.

Grapes at Midnight

In Spain, it is customary to eat one grape for each clock chime at midnight. Sweet grape, sweet month. Sour grape—brace yourself for March. Practice chewing fast if you plan to keep up.

Lentils and Sausage

In Italy, tiny coin-shaped lentils symbolize prosperity, and since pigs always root forward, pairing them with pork (cotechino) represents progress, stability, and optimism for the year ahead. In Germany, the tradition expands with sauerkraut for blessings (and a little

gut health), plus the occasional marzipan pig — arguably the world’s cutest good-luck charm. Meanwhile, in Brazil, lentils return to the menu alongside seven pomegranate seeds for wealth, and those celebrating by the sea take their luck one step further, leaping over seven ocean waves to make sure fortune follows them ashore.

Cozy Good-Luck Soup

In France, velouté de marrons (chestnut soup) is more than winter comfort food. Chestnuts symbolize endurance and prosperity. Once a staple food in the poorer mountain regions, they now represent abundance restored. Serving chestnut soup at New Year’s honors that transition: from scarcity to plenty, from old year to new.

Long Noodles

In China, Japan, and elsewhere around East Asia, long noodles are eaten without cutting or breaking them—the long strands are believed to stretch one's lifespan. Breaking a noodle early is said to cut your luck short. Slurp responsibly.

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

Dumplings and Fish

The Chinese don't celebrate on the same day but they do have dumplings shaped like gold ingots to bring wealth. A whole fish promises “surplus.” Leave a bite uneaten so abundance carries into the next year. Discipline never looked so delicious.

Round Food

Circles have long symbolized life coming full circle—no corners, no endings, just endless possibility. In the Philippines, it’s tradition to welcome the year with 12 round fruits to represent twelve prosperous months. Bonus luck if you wear polka dots while eating them; after all, circles are everywhere this time of year — coins, bubbles, joy itself.

SERVING SUGGESTION

Mix and match these superstitions freely—lentils for lunch, grapes for dessert, noodles at midnight. The only real rule is to start the new year with something you love to eat… and maybe a side of hope that this time, it sticks.

HOW TO HOLIDAY

BAD LUCK BITES: WHAT NOT TO EAT Every culture has its edible charms for a lucky new year — but just as important are the foods you *don’t* touch. Superstition may be the world’s oldest dietary restriction, and it’s surprisingly practical: avoid anything that pokes, pinches, claws, or goes backward. feed, which some say sends your luck

piece? Hard pass. Anything covered in

all seafood swims toward

in reverse. The rule of thumb: eat like

spikes is believed to invite tension and

fortune. In parts of Asia,

you mean to move forward.

prickly relationships. A smooth start to

Sharp-Boned Fish: Not

spiny or bony fish are avoided for fear that their sharp fins or bones might “pierce” your good luck. Stick to softboned fillets and fish that swim forward — symbolic of progress and smooth sailing. Birds with Claws or Wings: Across Europe and Latin America, chicken and turkey stay off the table. Birds scratch backward while they

Lobsters and Crabs: They might be luxurious, but their

the year begins with a smooth surface. Breaking Bones: Some

backward or sideways crawl is

traditions skip ribs or other

considered a bad omen in Italy, Portu-

bone-heavy meats, fearing

gal, and several coastal cultures. Add

that cracking bones could

in those sharp shells and claws, and

symbolize fractured relationships or

you’ve got a recipe for “cutting away”

broken fortune. Instead, serve whole

prosperity.

dishes — whole fish, whole loaves, whole hearts — and keep the blessings

Spiky Foods and Decor: Durian, sea urchin, or even

intact.

a decorative cactus center-

Moral of the menu: Save the spines and claws for later. On New Year’s Day, you want your food — and your future — to move only one way: forward.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 25  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

CHAMBER CORNER

c ont r i b u te d by Ke lly M i c h a e l, Exe c u t ive D i re c to r

bers will be completing their terms at the end of 2025. The response has been enthusiastic, and the chamber is excited to welcome new board members who will begin their service in January 2026. “These individuals will bring fresh ideas, energy, and perspectives that will help guide the chamber into another successful year,” states Kelly Michael, Executive Director LHCC. “Looking ahead, the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce is eager to build on this year’s progress by introducing new and exciting events that will enhance member engagement and community visibility,” Steven Schiff, President LHCC adds.

he Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce experienced an exciting and transformative year. As Liberty Hill continues to grow and thrive, so has the Chamber, expanding its membership base, strengthening business partnerships, and increasing community engagement through a variety of successful programs and events. The Chamber remains dedicated to connecting and empowering local businesses through collaboration and opportunity. Throughout the year, the Chamber has continued to partner closely with the City of Liberty Hill, the Liberty Hill City Council, and the Liberty Hill Economic Development Corporation (LHEDC) to ensure local business growth aligns with the city’s long-term economic vision. These partnerships have helped foster an environment that encourages innovation, supports local entrepreneurs, and promotes sustainable community development. One of the key strengths of the Chamber continues to be its commitment to relationship-building through networking opportunities. The monthly networking luncheon has become a signature event, enabling business owners, city leaders, and community members to share ideas, discuss challenges, and build valuable connections. These luncheons not only promote professional growth but also strengthen the sense of unity that defines the Liberty Hill business community. In addition to its regular networking events, the Chamber has continued to host a variety of special gatherings that celebrate and support the business community. The annual fundraising gala remains one of the most anticipated events of the year — bringing together business leaders, community members, and supporters for an evening that highlights the chamber’s mission while raising funds for continued programs and initiatives. Likewise, Women in Business and chamber breakfast events have become a warm, welcoming way for both new and established members to engage in casual conversation and collaboration. As the chamber prepares for its next chapter, and the importance of strong leadership, the executive team recently opened an application process to fill upcoming chamber board of directors vacancies as several current board mem10

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

“As we approach 2026, the Chamber remains committed to its mission of supporting local businesses, fostering meaningful connections, and contributing to the continued success of Liberty Hill.” As the year ends, the chamber extends its sincere gratitude to all members, partners, and volunteers for their dedication and hard work. A special and heartfelt thank-you goes out to the current board of directors for their leadership and to those whose terms are ending, for their years of commitment and service to the Liberty Hill community.

Kelly Michael, Executive Director

BELLE CHIMES IN

by An n Ma rie Kenn on

WHAT I FOUND ON THE ROAD FROM EMMAUS Or... In Loving Memory of Frankincense the Squirrel It's Christmas, and Belle is feeling a bit Guidepost-y at the keyboard. The computer kind, while reflecting on the musical kind. There are weekends soaked in such dense holiness you can practically feel the prayer saturation in the ground. Like the whole place is inside Billy Graham's microwave. The Walk to Emmaus is one of those weekends. It is a 72-hour retreat for people who want to reclaim, find something new, or grow in their Christian faith. I did the pilgrim walk last spring and decided I wanted to extend the spiritual afterglow by serving on the music team at the subsequent fall walk. It was lovely to play on the music team, providing the soundtrack for other people’s spiritual breakthroughs. During the six months in between, we had many gruelingly long days of church rehearsals and I thought, well, at least when the time comes to do the job, it will simply be glorious. Y'know, like the glory of lugging a digital piano across gravel in the rain. But, yeah... rather than swaying happily to well-prepared worship with the pilgrims, I spent most of the time panicking over the tinny sounds of the camp's digital keyboard and obsessively checking the four-page setlist like it was a Dead Sea Scroll. Everyone else was having radiant mountaintop moments with God—crying, praising, getting spiritually wrecked and restored. Meanwhile, I'm sweating through a piano bench and wondering if anyone noticed I messed up the bridge in Oceans. It’s not that I didn’t want to meet the Spirit. I just... didn't. Not in the big, theatrical ways. I just felt a little like the hired

help at a wedding banquet—delivering the wine, but not invited to dance and still expected to nail the key change.

the holy bubble and back in the world, where things hit harder and nothing feels safe or sacred.

By the end of the weekend, I was really tired, a little spiritually hangry, and mildly jealous of every person who had been hammered by grace while I was wrangling the PowerPoint to make sure the lyrics on the big screen were the same ones the team was singing.

That squirrel didn’t die for my ministry fatigue. (Let’s be real—I’m not building a theology around roadkill.) But in the weirdest, most unexpected way, Frankincense reminded me that tenderness—grief, longing, disappointment—isn’t separate from the Spirit. It is evidence of His nearness. Not all things holy glow. Some are more raw and show up when you ugly-cry over a Squeaky McWhiskers.

And then I ran over a squirrel. I was heading home, maybe ten minutes from the retreat center, still riding the emotional residue of the closing ceremony, when a little gray blur darted out in front of my car. I hit the brakes. Too late. The thud was sickening. I sat there in my car, stunned, tears stinging the corners of my eyes—not just for the little furball, but for the whole strange, hollow ache that had followed me all weekend and the end of that tiny life was what finally let some emotion in. I have since named him Frankincense. It felt appropriate. One of the wise men’s gifts, cut short on the road. Gold felt too optimistic, and myrrh didn’t have the right energy. In that ridiculous, awful moment, something in me finally cracked open. I hadn't had my big moment with God in the candlelit chapel or during the fourth verse of How Great Thou Art. I’d had it on the shoulder of a backroad, staring at a tiny creature who never saw me coming. And maybe that’s the whole point.

So this Christmas, my takeaway is a lot of extra reverence for everyone who is also serving (and exhausted) in the background. The musicians playing through the altar call when they'd really like to do the walk themselves. The moms burning the cinnamon rolls while the family gleefully bonds in another room. The volunteers organizing the coat drive in church basements or stacking cans in a drafty food pantry. The teenagers working the drivethrough on Christmas Eve to afford something nice for mom or dad, or just for gas money. The first responders who are literally shepherds keeping watch in the holiday hours and anyone who feels like they are missing their moment in service to others. Maybe they did miss it—maybe it’s still coming. Or maybe it’s hiding in the moments they least expect.

Sometimes the Spirit doesn’t arrive on cue. Sometimes He slips in quietly, tucked into the unnoticed work, the missed intro cues, the invisible service. Sometimes He waits until you're out of

And maybe—just maybe—the Spirit rides shotgun on the way home, too. I just wish He'd offered to take the wheel for five minutes. He definitely would have spotted Frankincense in time.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 25  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E S T

PARTING SHOT

c ont r i bu te d by Th om a s Gra h a m , CEO of Cros s w i nd Me d i a & Pu bli c Re la ti o ns

Bringing America Home for Christmas

very December, lights flicker to life across the country—on homes, storefronts, and trees that brighten town squares from Jarrell to the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

mas Tree. Together, they create a living symbol of the diversity and togetherness that define our nation, each tree reflecting the beauty of its people and its home.

Christmas has a way of bringing us together. It’s a season that reminds us who we are and what we share—faith, family, and community.

Last week, a team from the National Park Service brought a beautiful tree from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, near Roanoke, Virginia to the White House where it was erected, decorated, and servew as the center piece for our nation’s moment of unity.

This year, I have the distinct honor of helping organize and promote the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a tradition that dates back more than a century. From the first ceremony in 1923, when President Calvin Coolidge lit the tree outside the White House, the ceremony has grown into one of our nation’s most beloved holiday gatherings. Hosted by the National Park Foundation, in partnership with the National Park Service and The White House, the event continues to unite Americans in a single moment of light and hope. The tradition began humbly. The D.C. Public Schools petitioned the White House to place a decorated Christmas tree on the Ellipse in 1923, and First Lady Grace Coolidge gave permission to do so just south of the White House. The organizers named it the National Christmas Tree. That Christmas Eve, at 5pm, President Coolidge walked to the Ellipse and “pushed the button” to light a 48-foot balsam fir donated by Middlebury College in his native state of Vermont. As 3,000 enthusiastic spectators looked on, schoolchildren sang carols and joined in the celebration, setting the tone for what would become a lasting American tradition of joy, unity, and hope. A century later, the spirit of that first gathering still shines bright. This year, volunteers from across the country will decorate 59 trees—representing each of our states and territories, as well as the Department of the Interior—lining the President’s Park leading to the National Christ-

D E C E M B E R 2025  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

On November 28, here in Williamson County, we celebrated our own moment of illumination. Williamson County Judge Steve Snell helped flip the switch to illuminate the county courthouse, the surrounding grounds, and the lights encircling our county seat. Families gathered, carolers sang, and the community glows today with the same spirit that inspired that first crowd on the Ellipse more than a century ago. In recent weeks, as our team discussed the planning, the performers, and the purpose of this year’s National Tree Lighting, one colleague said, “We want it to feel like home, like Texas.” There’s something about Texas' historic squares, the sense of community, the simple joy of gathering together—that captures the essence of what we want all Americans to feel when they watch this year’s broadcast. The ceremony will air nationally, giving millions of viewers not just a front-row seat to a Washington tradition, but a reminder of the small-town belonging that makes our country strong. At a time when America can feel divided, the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony offers something rare—a shared experience that transcends politics and reminds us that we are one family, one community, under one shining light. As I help shape this year’s celebration, my goal is simple: to bring a little bit of Texas to the nation’s capital—and to bring America home for Christmas.

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

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON LIBERTY HILL, TX

ARE YOU READY FOR WINTER? GIFT YOURSELF, AND YOUR FAMILY AN AMAZING SPACE THIS YEAR!

Located halfway between US-183 and Ronald Reagan Blvd. on Hwy 29

COME BROWSE OUR 2-ACRE SHOW ROOM! 512.548.6474 9750 W State Highway 29, Liberty Hill, TX office@moorelibertybuildings.com

MooreLibertyBuildings.com