Liberty Hill Living February 2021

V O L 7 , I S S U E 1 | F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 1 | www.LibertyHillLiving.com

LIBERTY HILL

P R O U D LY C E L E B R AT I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y O F L I B E R T Y H I L L , T E X A S

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When choosing the BEST PHOTO that represents the beauty of Liberty Hill’s rural landscapes, it’s difficult to choose from our publication archives, but this one is among my favorites because it’s a reminder of a simpler, more peaceful time that I often long for in fast-paced, stressful and challenging times.

Welcome to the Best of Liberty Hill Living!

T

he coronavirus pandemic ushered in a year of firsts for the world, including our own hometown and its newspaper. While we certainly struggled through some challenging months in 2020, we used the time to reimagine what more we could be, what else we could do to serve our community, and how we could help area businesses reach more of you during these uncertain days.

The result is a new rollout of Liberty Hill Living. For the past six years, the community has embraced the annual publication because it continues to be a colorful chronicle of what makes our hometown special. With more space to report magazine-length features and high-end photography, Liberty Hill Living offers us an opportunity to show you more about Liberty Hill than we have space and time to report in weekly editions of The Liberty Hill Independent newspaper.

As a locally-owned small business whose employees live and work here, we have a passion for sharing the stories that make our growing community special. As professional journalists, we go the distance to bring those to you.

In 2021, you will be seeing Liberty Hill Living in your mailbox five times. And what better way to start the year than with the BEST OF THE BEST Liberty Hill has to offer.

The newspaper’s annual BEST OF LIBERTY HILL online survey was completed in December 2020 with more than 8,900 votes cast for the best businesses in our community.

PHOTO BY AL WILLIAMS

From Best Burger to Best Gift Shop to Best Roofing Company, and all categories in between, local residents have decided their favorites. The contest, now in its third year, generates community pride in our homegrown businesses and is a big boost to owners who work tirelessly, especially during this pandemic, to provide special products and services to residents.

In this issue, read more about some of those businesses that make our community a destination for visitors. From a downtown restaurant and brewery to unique special event venues, many are looking to Liberty Hill for good food, fun, special places for memorable events, and a less complicated way of living. It's a Liberty Hill style of living that makes our small town attractive to so many families looking for respite from big city life. After all, having a little more room to raise animals, including backyard chickens, is just good for the soul.

We appreciate the business leaders who care about our community as much as we do and want their businesses to be part of a publication that celebrates the local flavor of the people and the place we proudly call home. This year, we invite you to explore with us the richness of the beauty all around us in Volume 7 of Liberty Hill Living.

Shelly Wilkison, Publisher

PROUDLY CELEBRATING THE COMMUNITY OF LIBERTY HILL, TEXAS

LIBERTY HILL LIVING | A Publication of The Liberty Hill Independent Newspaper, Texas Independent News Corp.

PUBLISHER | Shelly Wilkison PUBLICATION AND ADVERTISING DESIGN | Megan Sela ADVERTISING SALES | Stacy Coale CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Mike Eddleman, Scott Akanewich, Anthony Flores, Rachel Madison PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS | Alex Rubio, Rachel Madison, Scott Akanewich, Mike Eddleman, Amy Gandy, Caroline Scott, Noelia Hernandez, Al Williams

The information in this publication was compiled with great care to assure the accuracy of editorial content and advertising copy. Liberty Hill Living and its parent company assumes no liability for the accuracy of the information reported to us herein, and the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

For advertising rates and information, or to obtain additional copies, call (512) 778-5577 or send email to news@LHIndependent.com. The publisher appreciates the active support of Liberty Hill area businesses for their generous contributions to Liberty Hill Living. This publication is truly a collaborative effort of experienced journalists, a professional design team, advertising specialists and many others passionate about sharing the story of Liberty Hill, Texas. Find Liberty Hill Living online at www.LibertyHillLiving.com.

Copyright© 2021 Liberty Hill Living. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission in writing from the publisher.

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“We worked with Deborah DeBona to sell my mother’s house and she was just excellent.

I’ve never had a realtor do so much ‘extra’ as Deborah did. She is an amazing stager and followed through on everything she said she was going to do in a prompt manner. Very efficient, organized and professional. I will definitely use Deborah again for future real estate transactions. When she said at the beginning that she would be there every step of the way, she wasn’t kidding. She has becomea lifelong friend to the family. Thank you so very much, Deborah! – Michele Hammer

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• Buyers are lining up with multiple offers and sales are exceeding sales price.

• I can help guide you through the process and garner you not only the highest bid but the best offer.

www.LibertyHillLiving.com

CONTENTS

48 20

12 | COOP DREAMS

Raising chickens is more popular than ever

26 | BEST OF LIBERTY HILL

Meet the hometown favorites that were named the BEST OF THE BEST OF LIBERTY HILL

40

20 | HIGH MARKS

Hell or High Water Brewing quickly becomes an area favorite

48 | AN INTIMATE TWIST

Area venues pivot to keep wedding dreams alive

10 | LIVING Local

Meet Kendra Cofer, Best Volunteer

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17 | LIVING Business

Winkley’s General Store has something for everyone

38 | LIVING Live

New trend in fun on target in Liberty Hill

40 | LIVING Home

Now is the time to dive in to your pool project

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44 | LIVING Healthy

COVID-19 vaccine makes its way to Williamson County

54 | LIVING To Eat

Noelia Hernandez is baking sweet treats to Feed the Soul

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56 | LIVING On The Road

Get lost in the pines of Bastrop

60 | LIVING Four-Legged

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Pet Parade - Residents show off their critters

Billy Bob by Angela Meade

See more pets on Page 60

lLiving.com

HILL LIBERTY

UA R Y E 1 | FEBR VOL 7, ISSU

E L E B R AT I P R O U D LY C

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MMUNI NG THE CO

EXAS RT Y HILL, T T Y OF LIBE

ABOUT OUR COVER The faces may not be familiar, but the food surely is. You named these restaurateurs among the Best of Liberty Hill for 2021! Christina Odom (left), Manager at Major's Burger Company, which won three categories; Al Redzematovic of Fratelli’s, which won for Best Pizza; and Cesar Narvaez, this year's Best Server from Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant. Jardin Corona also took home top honors in three other categories.

More than 8,900 votes were cast in this year's contest and we congratulate all the winners inside. Find the full list beginning on page 26.

PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO

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LIVING | LOCAL

Q&A

Kendra Cofer

After a life in the corporate world, Kendra Cofer stepped back a few years ago to focus on some of the true passions in her life. Because she was able to do that, a beloved local charity – L4 Cares – was born in 2017, and she was able to launch her second career as a photographer. She has never looked back, and spent a few minutes recently talking to our Liberty Hill Living staff about how life has changed.

LHL: What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

Cofer: I remember being told to grow my relationship with God every day. That's the best advice I've ever had and it's certainly changed my life in many ways, from a spiritual perspective obviously, but also in my career and personal life. It has given me the faith to let go and it has made really significant changes in my life. Praying about my next steps led me to photography and my nonprofit.

LHL: When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Cofer: When we had this snow – we had about three inches on the ground – my husband and I put on our bathing suits and went out to sit in the hot tub while it was snowing.

It was coming down really hard and it was just so fun. We made us a hot toddy and went out barefoot and jumped in. It was really unique to be able to do that in our backyard.

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LHL: I know you're a photographer. Is that the thing you would look at as a hobby or job you'd want to do all the time?

Cofer: Yes. That is tied with something else I love to do. I always said if I could just fish for a living that's what I would do. It was a very close tie with my photography. That's always been a hobby and fortunately it turned into something I started doing professionally a couple of years ago. It has been outstanding. I told my husband I just love to be on the water, it's so peaceful, but now I take my camera with me on fishing trips and I don't know what to do. I hold my fishing pole, then I have to grab my camera for a great picture, so it is pretty equal.

LHL: When you say fish for a living, you don't mean like out on a fishing boat at sea do you?

Cofer: No, no. I always used to say I wanted to be a fishing guide out on one of the lakes. I love fishing in the Highland Lakes.

LHL: What is it about fishing that you enjoy the most?

Cofer: It's just about being out on the water. It is so peaceful and I'm pretty patient when it comes to fishing. I can be out there for hours without a bite. I love the anticipation of what's going to come out of the water. I just love it. If my husband goes with me, if he hasn't caught anything in 20 minutes he is done. I could be out there for six or seven hours, I'm good.

LHL: How did you get into photography?

Cofer: I wouldn't say there was a specific time I got into it. I was always one with a camera in my hand, and I loved taking pictures. A few years ago some good friends of mine said they thought I could sell my pictures at a farmers market. That really gave me the confidence to take it to the next level. I love the outdoors, nature and animals so I started out with that, but it doesn't pay the bills so I started photographing people. I feel like my personality makes people at ease and comfortable where they can be themselves.

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Coop Dreams Raising chickens more popular than ever

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hich did people fall in love with first, the chicken or the egg?

Chickens have skyrocketed up the pecking order among animals to raise at home, and contrary to popular belief – but well known amongst chicken enthusiasts – chickens make for good pets.

“They’re actually sweet if you handle them when they’re chicks.

That’s what I suggest, handle them when they’re little babies and get them used to you,” said local Realtor and new chicken enthusiast Amy Gandy. “I read that they can recognize up to 52 faces, so they get to know who you are and know you won’t hurt them. Anytime we go out to the pen, they all start talking to us and run over to the fence and wait for us to come in. They’re like pets.”

Like any pet, each chicken is unique, with its own quirks.

“They’re just fun little characters.

They all have their own different personalities,” said chicken raising enthusiast Caroline Scott. “Some are pretty smart, and they can be shockingly affectionate and want to be held just like a dog. They love certain table scraps, vegetables, and fruits that you would normally throw away. You can just give it to them.

They love seeds like sunflower seeds and cracked corn and watermelon.

In the summertime, they go crazy for watermelon because it helps hydrate them. It’s a relaxing hobby if you just want to spend some time outside and get outdoors.”

Raising chickens is a fastgrowing hobby around the county.

Understanding the process along with potential pitfalls is key to successfully raising a flock.

“First of all, I think people need to have a little bit of land, a good yard,” said Maria Winkley, owner of Winkley’s General Store. “Preferably, you need to have shade because

they’ll always need shade. Usually, when people start, they clear a little area on their yard or land for shade.”

Winkley, whose store has sold chickens and coops for years, suggests that beginners can start their flock with two-day-old chicks.

Keeping them warm is key to their early survival.

“Most of our clients buy the babies when they are two days old. You can put them in the bathtub for a week or in the garage in a little trough. The main thing is that they have shavings on the bottom and clean water,” said Winkley. “We also like to put a bit of apple cider vinegar on the bottom because they’ll eat their food, and many times, they get what they call pasty butt. You also have to have a heat lamp, even in the summer.

These are tiny babies, and they just hatched. When they are two weeks, then you can take off the heat lamps.”

When Gandy started raising chickens, the temperature was at the top of her list of concerns for her family’s new hobby.

“It’s a little overwhelming when you start reading about keeping chickens, and it can scare you into thinking you can’t keep them alive as babies,” she said. “It actually wasn’t hard at all.”

Scott owns about 50 chickens and four or five roosters. What started as just a few chickens quickly grew into a large flock. This is a common occurrence for chicken hobbyists.

“Most people who raise chickens learn that there are so many different breeds that lay different colored eggs and look different with different feathers. It’s kind of addictive,” said Scott. “People in the chicken world call it chicken math. You can never just have one or two. An example of chicken math is, you might say you have about five chickens, but you really have double the amount. Your flock just kind of keeps growing.”

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Amy Gandy's flock enjoying a meal out in the snow.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Chicks should be fed medicated chick starter feed, followed by grower feed, and finally, layer feed to ensure a healthy hen. Of course, chickens will need a home they can be safe in. This is where the chicken coop comes into play.

“You can buy a chicken coop and go from there, or you can build it,” said Winkley. “Whichever you decide to do, you should have it fenced. It’s called chicken wire. You want to have the mesh on the chicken wire tiny.

That way, you don’t have any snakes or tiny critters that can get in there.

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That's a half-inch by half-inch size for the mesh.”

The price of a good coop varies but is vital to raising a flock of chickens.

There are a wide variety of options.

“The chicken coop that you buy will tell you how many hens will fit in it. Imagine that you're going to build a little shed. It’s wood, and it’ll have a little ramp for them to go in and out of their nesting boxes, and they’ll have little doors,” said Winkley. “We offer a variety of coops from smaller ones for three of four chickens all the way to ones that can hold nine or 10 chickens. They aren’t cheap. It’s a little house. This shouldn’t scare people because all of it pays off.”

Scott and her family decided to

convert a 10-foot by 16-foot shed into their coop.

Gandy and her family built theirs from scratch.

“My husband built a coop that I showed him on Pinterest, it’s beautiful,” she said. “He’s a perfectionist, and he did a wonderful job of building it. He downloaded the blueprints and followed them.

It’s very safe from predators and has a chicken run out to the side. We let them run loose in a larger pen during the day, and then they put themselves to bed at dusk. It’s funny, but they all know to go to bed and go back to their coop.”

Once in their coop, warmth becomes less of a threat. Chicken feces produces a gas that naturally warms the chicken coop. Predators are the greatest threat to anyone raising a flock. Even with a coop, it’s still a dangerous venture. Going the extra step is worth the effort.

“Chickens can be susceptible to CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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certain sicknesses, but generally, they are pretty hearty,” said Scott.

“The main thing is just predators like birds, hawks, owls, foxes, coyotes, or even raccoons. You really want to focus on predator-proofing your coop. If an animal gets in, it can take out your entire flock. That can be devastating because I see my chickens as my pets. It would be sad if anything happened to them.”

The reasons for raising chickens

vary from family to family. The first is to enjoy a variety of fresh eggs.

“We love the chicken eggs, and they can lay a rainbow of different colored eggs. A lot of breeders get really hooked on wanting to always have a different assortment of different colored eggs,” said Scott.

“For me, that’s one of the reasons that I am always trying to get different breeds that lay different colored eggs. Obviously, the eggs are

very delicious when you have farmfresh eggs you can just go out and get every day.”

Diving into the hobby opens up a whole new social circle to mingle with and learn from. This is just as much about community as it is fresh eggs and great pets. ~ Story by Anthony Flores Photos Courtesy Amy Gandy, Caroline Scott

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LIVING | BUSINESS

Maria and Chris Winkley are always looking for unique items to add to the store's offerings. Recently, Winkley's opened a full-service bicycle shop inside the store.

WINKLEY’S GENERAL STORE The place to go for a little bit of everything

A

t Winkley’s General Store, the tagline “where you can find anything you want and everything you need” rings true in every way—but the store didn’t start out that way when it first opened in 2003.

Opened by husband-and-wife team, Chris and Maria Winkley, the way the store started out was a “cavernous event,” Chris Winkley recalls.

“We had this big building and no

merchandise—it actually echoed in here,” he added. “We had some shelves and not much product. Our growth came slowly from a lot of different experiences.”

For example, Chris Winkley’s father had a successful used auto parts business, and he himself ran a bait and tackle shop in Cedar Park starting in the late 1970s. He also worked in the construction industry for a while. These experiences helped

him learn what types of products locals were interested in.

“It wasn’t really rocket science,” he said. “When we came here in 2003, there was a small hardware store here, but we felt they didn’t serve the needs of the community. Working in Cedar Park, we had a lot of customers come there from Liberty Hill, so I knew the folks were here and knew they needed a store like this.”

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community needed and wanted, Winkley’s slowly started growing its offerings.

“We actually keep a list of asked for items,” he said. “We write down what the customer wants and date it, and then we study it monthly and if a lot of people are asking for the same item, then we typically order it.”

Today, Winkley’s has more than 80 vendors—the majority of which are Texas businesses—and a wide range of departments including building materials, plumbing equipment, electrical supplies, fishing and sporting goods, clothing, home décor, paint and more.

The biggest seller at Winkley’s, though, is animal feed and hay.

“When we first started out, we didn’t offer feed, but there was a local guy selling feed who didn’t want to work weekends, so he asked if we’d sell his feed for him,” Chris Winkley said. “It blew up from there. We started selling hay, too, and now we sell feed from five or six different manufacturers, and we have five different types of square bales and

five different styles of round bales.”

Chris Winkley admits he didn’t know much about the world of animal feed and hay, and all the peripheral products that go along with farm animals, but he and Maria learned quickly so they could accommodate the community’s needs.

Moving forward, the Winkleys plan on continuing to add to the store’s offerings. They recently opened a full-service bicycle shop inside their store. In addition to selling a variety of types of bicycles and cycling equipment, the store also offers maintenance and repairs of bicycles.

“We are also expanding our

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building materials,” he said. “We just signed on with another vendor who is a bigger player in that market, and they will be supplying a lot of materials to us for the community.”

Chris Winkley also owns two undeveloped acres behind the store that he is considering developing to hold bulk products like hay and feed, or more storage facilities for building materials.

“This community has been so supportive over the years,” Chris Winkley said. “It’s been an amazing experience to be here in Liberty Hill for these going on 18 years.”

~ Story and Photos by Rachel Madison

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Hell or High Water Brewing quickly becomes area favorite

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hen owner Brian Holmes sees a vehicle loaded with people pass by his Hell or High Water brewery and restaurant in downtown Liberty Hill, he wants one thing.

“I want us to have something for everyone in the car,” he said.

“We wanted to create a family atmosphere.”

On a busy evening, people of all ages can be found enjoying the atmosphere Holmes has created –

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from groups of friends gathered to entire families – single, married, young, old and everything in between.

Dustin Baxter of Liberty Hill said what he enjoys most about the place is the overall environment.

“I just really like the atmosphere and how it has a small-town feel – it's just a good, genuine place,” he said.

“Also, the fact they have live music is great.”

A recent Wednesday night found Baxter, wife Tamara, and friends

Ryan and Lisa James enjoying an evening out.

Only no need to leave the kids with a sitter, as Hell or High Water provides a proper place for the two couples' combined four children to go right along.

Despite the fact his place is definitely family-friendly, Holmes said he also wanted to ensure it remained attractive to all.

“After all, it's a brewery, which carries with it a tremendous amount

of responsibility,” he said. “We want to be able to have younger crowds, along with catering to families.”

Patrons can also peruse one of the many televisions mounted on the walls featuring a variety of sports to enjoy while downing a favorite beverage paired with tasty appetizers and enticing entrees, as Hell or High Water brews its own variety of beers, as well as having a wide selection of wine and mixed drinks.

In fact, Hell or High Water was

voted Best Brewery, having the Best Beer, as well as runner-up in the categories of Best Margarita, Best Fries and Best Seafood in The Independent's annual “Best Of Liberty Hill” contest.

Holmes has been all over the world, sampling beers in many different countries and said there was always one thing in common regardless of where on the globe he found himself enjoying a cold brew.

“Every place I've been, they've

always used local ingredients to brew beer which is specific to that particular area,” he said. “So, we decided to do that here, too.”

As a result, Holmes uses malt from the Blacklands Malt in Leander, which is the only malthouse in the entire state of Texas, to brew some of the beers featured at Hell or High Water.

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already have on hand locally,” he said. “So, we wanted to re-create that tradition here.”

And when it comes to food, an appetizer is always a good idea to ready one's taste buds for the main course. One of the most popular items on the menu are the Panther Pork Nachos, which consist of tortilla chips dressed with queso and a healthy serving of pork topped with their own barbecue sauce and pico.

Other favorites are Liberty Lettuce Wraps and Coconut Shrimp.

When it's time to order an entree, the menu features something for all tastes, including handhelds such as the Veteran Burger, which can be customized with any number of various condiments, and Main Street Tacos, served with pork or chicken on your choice of corn or flour tortillas, and served with pico and avocado cream sauce.

If an entree is what you're hungering for, look no further than the Grilled Chicken, Texas Chicken Alfredo or San Gabriel Salmon.

Speaking of seafood, Hell or High Water's runner-up status in the Best Seafood category was more than likely attributed to a particular culinary creation, said Holmes.

“Definitely, our 'Float-on-theRiver' Fish and Chips,” he said. “We use beer-based batter from our own Kolsch beer that we brew.”

From a social standpoint, Hell or High Water was voted Best Place for Date Night and Best Place for Girls' Night Out, which goes right along with Holmes' vision of creating an atmosphere that is conducive to various groups of patrons – although he said the latter category was probably fueled by a particular beverage.

“One word – margaritas,” he said.

“As I observe various groups of women, that seems to be a drink of choice.”

According to Tamara Baxter, it's one of the reasons she keeps coming back time and again.

“Yes, the margaritas here are awesome,” she said. “They're very limey and fresh – definitely not like store-bought mix.”

But, there's certainly more to the allure for ladies than just excellent margaritas, said Holmes.

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“A lot of ladies drink beer and mixed drinks,” he said. “Something else I've noticed is a lot of them like to watch sports. But, I really think there's an ambiance in here that makes ladies comfortable.”

Baxter is certainly comfortable – whether it's with friends or her husband and their children, she said.

“Especially out on the patio, there's really a family feel to it,” said Baxter. “It's a place which is very kid-friendly and the servers are great, too.”

Ryan James of Liberty Hill said Hell or High Water creates a perfect blend of city and country.

“It kind of has an Austin feel, but small-town at the same time,” he said. “Not, to mention, the pulled-pork nachos are great – nice, tangy meat.”

Dustin and Tamara's teenage son, Blaine, also finds the place to his younger liking.

“Yeah, it's a really casual atmosphere,” he said. “Very chill and relaxing.”

Lisa James echoed this sentiment.

“It's not like some places in Austin where you go and the atmosphere is stuffy and more formal,” she said. “Here, they're just really down-to-earth and make you feel like you're part of the group.”

Sounds as if Holmes has indeed accomplished what he originally set out to do.

“People like it here because there's something for just about everybody,” he said. “A great variety of food and beverages, a friendly, professional staff and a family atmosphere.” ~ Story by Scott Akanewich Photos By Alex Rubio

Hell or High Water Brewing is a brewpub focusing on traditional style beers while creating something for all craft beer, wine and distilled spirit enthusiasts.

Hunter Douglas®

Hunter Douglas®

L I B E RT H I L LDouglas L I V I N or G |their FEB RUA RY 2owners.

021 ©2020 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Y Hunter respective

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PEC Proud “We have had lots of realtors over the years in buying/ selling properties. We knew upfront this would be a hard sell but Shelley stepped up to the plate to allow us to move back to what we consider home in the country. Great experience. We will be recommending her to all!” – THE YARBROUGH FAMILY

“Treated us like we were her only clients. Extremely easy to communicate with and helped us tremendously in selling AND buying.” – THE BAILEY FAMILY

“Moving from what we thought was our forever home was extremely stressful and emotional. Shelley handled the entire process with such care and class.

Each step of the way reassuring our family that God had great plans for us. And we would do it all over again!” – THE CAUSEY FAMILY

“Serving your family like my own”

SHELLEY CL AWSON | m 512.632.9393

o 512.699.9714

REALTOR ®

ShelleyClawson@gmail.com | MallachandCompany.com 304 W Willis Street | Leander, TX 78641

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L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

We’re PEC Proud to be named a Top Workplace.

Serving nearly one million Texans across the Hill Country, we rely on our PEC Team so our members can rely on us. Together, we power through. Learn more about joining our team at jobs.pec.coop.

Pedernales Electric Cooperative

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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More than 8,900 votes were cast in this year’s Best of the Best contest.

Visit these area businesses and see what makes them Liberty Hill favorites!

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L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

BEST CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

1st Place - Liberty Hill Pediatrics/ Tiffany Scott/Laura Swann Runner-up - Liberty Hill Physician Associates/Dr. Walter Chesshir

BEST HOME DECOR

BEST MEDICAL PRACTICE

1st Place - Simply Home Decor & More Runner-up - The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique

BEST URGENT CARE

1st Place - The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique Runner-up - Pep & Punch

1st Place - Liberty Hill Physician Associates Runner-up - Liberty Hill Pediatrics

1st Place - Care First Walk-In Clinic Runner-up - Georgetown Family Emergency Room

BEST MENTAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

BEST JEWELRY STORE

BEST BAKERY

1st Place - Malted Grains Runner-up - Grand Donuts

BEST BANK

1st Place - Renew Psychiatric Associates/Anastasia Corker Runner-up - Vita Nova Counseling

1st Place - Classic Bank Runner-up - First Texas

BEST AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY

1st Place - DigiTEX Printing Runner-up - UPS Store

1st Place - Liberty Air Runner-up - ACA Appliance and Air Conditioning

BEST AREA HOSPITAL

1st Place - Cedar Park Regional Medical Center Runner-up - St. David’s Round Rock

BEST PRINTING

BEST LIQUOR STORE

1st Place - Uptown Liquor Runner-up - Rio Gabriel Liquor

BEST SPECIAL EVENT / WEDDING VENUE

BEST FITNESS CENTER

1st Place - Shooting Star Ranch Runner-up - Liberty Hill Learning & Event Center

BEST VETERINARY CLINIC

1st Place - Liberty Hill Independent Runner-up - Liberty Hill Orthodontics

1st Place - Anytime Fitness Runner-up - Flock Fitness

1st Place - Comanche Trail Veterinary Center Runner-up - Highway 29 Veterinary Clinic

BEST DOG DAYCARE

PHOTO BY PHIL OSTROFF

BEST NAIL SALON

1st Place - Absolute Nails by Ket Runner-up - Liberty Nails & Spa

BEST LOCAL WEBSITE

BEST GRAPHIC DESIGN

1st Place - DigiTEX Printing Runner-up - John Galves

BEST AUTO PARTS STORE

1st Place - Action Pack Dog Center Runner-up - Zoot Pet Hospital & Luxury Boarding

1st Place - Auto Zone Runner-up - A-Line Auto Parts

BEST DOG GROOMING

1st Place - Davis Tire & Automotive Runner-up - Capital Automotive & Transmission

1st Place - Loving Touch Pet Spa Runner-up - Happy Dog Grooming

BEST AUTO REPAIR

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BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

BEST YOUTH GYMNASTICS

1st Place - Benny Boyd Runner-up - Cedar Park Toyota

1st Place - Courage Cheer & Dance Runner-up - The Mega Gym

BEST TIRE DEALER

BEST CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY

1st Place - Davis Tire & Automotive Runner-up - Discount Tire Leander

1st Place - Liberty Hill Public Library Runner-up - City of Liberty Hill Splash Pad

BEST OIL CHANGE

BEST YOUTH SPORTS ORGANIZATION

1st Place - Davis Tire & Automotive

BEST TOWING COMPANY

1st Place - Liberty Hill Youth League Baseball & Softball Runner-up - Liberty Hill Youth Soccer Association

1st Place - Liberty Hill Towing Runner-up - Cedar Park Wrecker

BEST TREE TRIMMING SERVICE/ ARBORIST

1st Place - Certified Arbor Care Runner-up - Aabear Tree Care

BEST FURNITURE STORE

1st Place - Northwest Furniture Runner-up - Texas Discount Furniture

BEST COMPUTER REPAIR

1st Place - HK Computers Runner-up - Liberty Hill Computer

Kami Pogue, owner The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique

BEST PHARMACY

BEST MARTIAL ARTS

1st Place - Valor Martial Arts Runner-up - John’s Gym Jiu Jitsu Liberty Hill

BEST CHURCH

1st Place - Liberty Hill Pharmacy & Compounding Center Runner-up - CVS Leander

1st Place - Williamson County Cowboy Church Runner-up - The Grove Church

BEST INSURANCE COMPANY

BEST CHURCH YOUTH PROGRAM

1st Place - Ivory Cleaners

1st Place - Famers Insurance, McCoy Agency Runner-up - Goosehead Insurance, Bret Smith

1st Place - The Grove Church Runner-up - Fellowship Church

BEST STORE FOR PANTHER GEAR

BEST NEWS/COMMUNITY INFORMATION

1st Place TIE - Santa Rita Ranch and Rancho Sienna

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

1st Place - Copper Ridge Custom Homes Runner-up - DR Horton

BEST DRY CLEANERS

1st Place - Two Brand It Runner-up - The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique

1st Place - The Liberty Hill Independent Newspaper

BEST HARDWARE STORE

1st Place - RE/MAX Town & Country Runner-up - Hughes & Company Real Estate

1st Place - Winkley’s General Store Runner-up - Higginbotham Brothers

BEST OUTDOOR/HUNTING SUPPLIES

1st Place - A Texas Girl’s Guns Runner-up - Winkley’s General Store

BEST CHILDCARE

1st Place - Happy Trails Learning Center Runner-up - Little Crusaders

Liberty Hill Pharmacy

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

BEST HOME BUILDER

BEST HOME REMODEL AND REPAIR

1st Place - Copper Ridge Custom Homes Runner-up - Stone Canyon

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

1st Place - Riata Roofing Runner-up - McKinnis Roofing

BEST ELECTRICAL SERVICE

1st Place - J & Co. Electric Runner-up - Bertram Electric

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

1st Place - Ski’s Plumbing Runner-up - Meadows Plumbing

BEST POOL COMPANY

1st Place - GK Pools Runner-up - Paradise Pools & Spas 28

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Owners & Operators

Best Sandwich Best Salad Best Bakery Best Dessert Runner-up Best All-Around Restaurant Runner-up Best Burger Runner-up

BEST HOME DECOR Winner 3 years in a row!

BEST GIFT SHOP Runner-up

Since 2012, we have been blessed to serve Liberty Hill as the one-stop shop with home decor, trendy fashion, and gifts for all occasions.

Homemade Breads, Dressings & Sauces.

Packaged Meals to go. Sandwiches, Salads & Burgers.

Wine & Beer. One-Stop Shop.

1004 Loop 332 | Downtown Liberty Hill www.maltedgrainstx.com

Tuesday-Friday 10-6 & Sat 10-3 Shop local at 15280 Highway 29, Liberty Hill Shop online anytime at www.simplyhomeTX.com

Thank you to our patients for voting Dr. Walter Chesshir Best Medical Doctor in Liberty Hill 3 YEARS IN A ROW and for voting us Best Medical Practice in Liberty Hill!

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today to make your appointment.

Walter Chesshir, MD | Rachel Woolley, FNP

512-778-5160

14365 W Hwy 29, Suite 10 | Liberty Hill L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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BEST ALL-AROUND RESTAURANT

BEST CABLE/INTERNET PROVIDER

1st Place - Spectrum Runner-up - Western Broadband

BEST PROPANE PROVIDER

1st Place - Moore Liberty Buildings Runner-up - Texas Best Buildings

BEST PEST CONTROL

BEST WINERY

1st Place - Thirsty Mule Winery & Vineyard Runner-up - 7 Creeks Vineyard

1st Place - P&R Propane Runner-up - Propane Plus

1st Place - Research Pest Control Runner-up - Alpine Pest Solutions

BEST HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

1st Place - Hell or High Water Brewing Runner-up - Liberty Hill Beer Market

BEST FUNERAL HOME

1st Place - Fire Oak Distillery Runner-up - Schitz Creek Distillery

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

1st Place - Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant Runner-up - Elena’s Mexican Restaurant

1st Place - WeClean Home Solutions Runner-up - Bizzy Bees Cleaning Co.

BEST TRASH PICKUP SERVICE

1st Place - Al Clawson Disposal, Inc.

BEST LANDSCAPING SUPPLY SERVICE

1st Place - Whittlesey Landscape Supplies Runner-up - XXL Landscaping

BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY

1st Place - Guild Mortgage Runner-up - Home Trust Mortgage

BEST TITLE COMPANY

1st Place - Independence Title Runner-up - Capital Title of Texas

The Whittlesey family of Whittlesey Landscape Supplies

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BEST PORTABLE BUILDING COMPANY

1st Place - Dahlia Cafe Runner-up - Hell or High Water Brewing

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

1st Place - Leander Station Senior Village Runner-up - Skye Luxury Retirement Living

1st Place - Beck Funeral Home Runner-up - Ramsey Funeral Home

1st Place - Liberty Hill Storage Runner-up - Easy Stop Storage

BEST CHARITABLE/NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

1st Place - Operation Liberty Hill Runner-up - Liberty Hill Public Library

BEST BREWERY

BEST DISTILLERY

BEST MEXICAN FOOD

BEST ASIAN FOOD

1st Place - Happy Wok Runner-up - An Thinh Asian Cuisine

Major's Burger Company

BEST CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

1st Place - Dahlia Cafe Runner-up - Junction Café

BEST SALSA

1st Place - Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant Runner-up - Texas Taco Kitchen

BEST TACO

1st Place - Texas Taco Kitchen Runner-up - Boomer’s Taqueria

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

1st Place - Golden Chick

BEST SEAFOOD

BEST BURGER

1st Place - Major’s Burger Company Runner-up - Malted Grains

BEST SANDWICH

1st Place - Moutons Southern Bistro Runner-up - Hell or High Water Brewing

1st Place - Malted Grains Runner-up - Dahlia Cafe

BEST BARBECUE

1st Place - Major’s Burger Company Runner-up - Hell or High Water Brewing

BEST BREAKFAST

1st Place - Hell of High Water Brewing Runner-up - Liberty Hill Beer Market

1st Place - Smokey Mo’s BBQ Runner-up - Agape BBQ

1st Place - Dahlia Cafe Runner-up - Major’s Burger Company

BEST FRIES

BEST BEER

Michael Biggs & Melissa Day, owners of Malted Grains

VOTED BEST FOR 3 YEARS THANK YOU, LIBERTY HILL!

We appreciate your continued business!

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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We work on most brands of household appliances, air conditioners, and heating systems.

Thank you, Liberty Hill, for trusting us with your Air Conditioning and Heating Service!

Jason and Amber Dogde, Mainstay Kitchen Food Truck

BEST MARGARITA

1st Place - Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant Runner-up - Hell or High Water Brewing

BEST DESSERT

1st Place - Dahlia Cafe Runner-up - Malted Grains

BEST DONUTS

1st Place - Grand Donuts Runner-up - Donut Palace

BEST PIZZA

1st Place - Fratelli Pizza Runner-up - Liberty Hill Beer Market

BEST SALAD

1st Place - Malted Grains Runner-up - Dahlia Cafe

BEST FOOD TRUCK

1st Place - Main Street Social Runner-up - Waffle Love

BEST PLACE FOR GIRLS NIGHT

1st Place - Hell or High Water Brewing Runner-up - Liberty Hill Beer Market

*

*During normal business hours

* *

BEST PLACE FOR DATE NIGHT

1st Place - Hell of High Water Brewing Runner-up - Dahlia Cafe

BEST FAST FOOD RESTAURANT

1st Place - Major’s Burger Company Runner-up - Dairy Queen

BEST COFFEE

1st Place - Mojo Coffee Runner-up - Perky Beans Coffee

**During During normal normalbusiness businesshours hours 32

*During normal business hours

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Mojo Coffee

BEST ACCOUNTANT

1st Place - Jason Taylor, The Well Account Runner-up - Teri (Moore) Reeves, Liberty Hill Bookkeeping & Tax Services

BEST ATTORNEY

1st Place - Jamie Etzkorn, Law Office of Jamie Etzkorn, PLLC Runner-up - Ehlert Law, PC

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

BEST HUNTING/OUTDOOR SUPPLIES

1st Place - Dr. Jeffry Popham, Liberty Hill Chiropractic Runner-up - Dr. Lynn Calhoun, Calhoun Chiropractic Wellness Clinic

BEST DENTIST

1st Place - Dr. Thad H. Gillespie, Liberty Hill Dental Runner-up - West Family Dentistry

BEST DENTAL HYGIENIST

1st Place - Mary Jo, Liberty Hill Dental Runner-up - Kayla Neuenschwander, River Ranch Family Dentistry

BEST ORTHODONTIST

1st Place - Dr. Scot O’Donnell, Liberty Hill Orthodontics Runner-up - Dr. Amber Burgess, Ortho 360

BEST EYE DOCTOR

1st Place - Dr. Jim Hannigan, Liberty Hill Eye Associates Runner-up - Jodie West, Texas Family Eye Care

Holly Johnson, owner Warrior Wellness

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BEST MEDICAL DOCTOR

1st Place - Dr. Walter Chesshir, Liberty Hill Physician Associates

BEST NURSE PRACTITIONER

1st Place - Laura Swann, Liberty Hill Pediatrics Runner-up - Tiffani Scott, Liberty Hill Pediatrics

BEST NURSE

1st Place - Tammy, Liberty Hill Physician Associates Runner-up - Stephanie Turek

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

1st Place - Dr. Kirk Ringland, Texas Physical Therapy Specialists

BEST MENTAL HEALTH CARE COUNSELOR

1st Place - Anastasia Corker, Renew Psychiatric Associates Runner-up - Viki Bates, Live-Your-Dream Counseling

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

1st Place - Holly Johnson, Warrior Wellness Runner-up - Miranda Basey, Flock Fitness

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

1st Place - Seth Herbeck, Edward Jones Runner-up - Jason Stanley, Oak Crest Financial

Liberty Hill Public Library

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

BEST NAIL TECHNICIAN

1st Place - David & Christa McCoy, Farmers Insurance Runner-up - Bret Smith, Goosehead Insurance

1st Place - Ket Vora, Absolute Nails by Ket Runner-up - Amy, Liberty Nails & Spa

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

1st Place - Amber Jackson, Pure Remedy Massage Runner-up - David, Massage Heights Cedar Park

BEST HAIR STYLIST

1st Place - Brylee Burich, Royal Bliss Day Spa Runner-up - Dani Luckey, Luckey Looks Skincare

1st Place - Shane T. White, RE/MAX Town & Country Runner-up - Cheryl Stephens, Hughes & Company Real Estate

1st Place - Dana Clark, Dana’s Salon Runner-up - Mary Ledesma, The Hair Stop

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

BEST ESTHETICIAN

BEST AUTO MECHANIC

1st Place - JD Davis, Davis Tire & Automotive Runner-up - Aaron Schnelle, Capital Automotive & Transmission

BEST PASTOR

1st Place - Scott Heider, The Grove Church Runner-up - Andrew Fortner, One Chapel

BEST PRINCIPAL

1st Place - Tanya Lambert, Bill Burden Elementary School Runner-up - Travis Motal, Liberty Hill Junior High

BEST COACH

Jennifer Smith, owner Two Brand It 34

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Coach Jeff Walker, Liberty Hill High School

BEST TEACHER

Jima Dungan, Bill Burden Elementary School

BEST CAFETERIA EMPLOYEE

1st Place TIE Melissa Levine Tara Reyes Cassidy Montgomery

BEST SCHOOL BUS DRIVER

Lisa Kirk

BEST POLICE OFFICER

Lt. Jeff Ringstaff

BEST FIREFIGHTER

Charles Johnson

BEST RESTAURANT SERVER

Cesar Narvaez, Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

1st Place TIE Abby Glenn Photography Christina Tucker, Memory Catchers Foto

BEST BOSS

Dr. Thad Gillespie, Liberty Hill Dental

FRIENDLIEST EMPLOYEE

Ginger Floyd, RE/MAX Town & Country

BEST POST OFFICE EMPLOYEE

Bernita Mose

BEST CITY EMPLOYEE

Kathryn Mitchell

BEST COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Kendra Cofer

Cesar Narvaez, server at Jardin Corona Mexican Restaurant

Thank you to our past and present customers, and our awesome community for voting us Best of Liberty Hill 2021!

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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ISSUE SIX 2 0 2 0 | www.Libe rtyHillLiv

ing.com

LIBERTY HILL

P R O U D LY C E L E B R AT I

NG THE CO MMUNI

T Y OF LIBE RT Y HILL, T EXAS

Preserving

the Past

A nosta lgic look at days gone by amid st a rush towa rd the futur e

More Liberty Hill Living to Love in 2021 Feature your business in the April, June, September and November editions of Liberty Hill Living! Packed with more in-depth articles, professional photography and regular features on local business, food, home and garden, travel, history and entertainment, each issue contains something special for everyone.

Contact us today for advertising opportunities!

(512) 778-5577 or Stacy@LHIndependent.com www.LibertyHillLiving.com • 921 Loop 332, Liberty Hill TX 78642

Best Boss Dr. Gillespie

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L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

2 Years for $20!

2 Years Online for $15 GET ALL THE NEWS WITH THE INDEPENDENT! Offer available for New Subscribers only.

Subscribe online at www.LHIndependent.com/Subscriptions or call us 512.778.5577

Best Dentist Dr. Gillespie

Best Hygienist Mary Jo

We are honored by your confidence! Thank you, Liberty Hill, for your votes!

RUNNER UP

RUNNER UP

Hughes & Company Real Estate

Cheryl Stephens

Best Real Estate Company

Adrienne Hughes

Broker/Owner REALTOR®, GRI, SRS®

Best Real Estate Agent

Cheryl Stephens REALTOR®, GRI, MRP

Amber Elliott REALTOR®

Angela Wienecke REALTOR®, SRS®, ePRO

3106 Ranch Road 1869 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | www.Hughes-and-Company.com | (512) 563-5550 L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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LIVING | LIVE

BETTER GO AXE SOMEBODY New trend in fun on target in Liberty Hill

Rowdy Axe Company owner Garrett Simmons, right, gives instructions to a thrower during a recent event.

A

xe throwing has it origins in Canada, but recently the sport has made its way to central Texas, meaning the opportunity to hurl bladed weapons at wooden targets is now a viable option for those looking to pick up a new hobby – or perhaps just have a good time.

Rowdy Axe Company opened for business in January and owner

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L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Garrett Simmons is already seeing that his new endeavor is right on target.

“I think axe throwing combines a casual atmosphere with competitiveness,” said Simmons, who worked on readying the project for nearly a year in order to get it up and running.

“It's not so different from darts, but it's more primal, which people enjoy.”

Simmons has a custom trailer to haul around the equipment needed to hold an event – one that includes a fenced-in throwing lane with a large wooded target at the end. Throwers step up onto the trailer and line up 12 feet away from the target before letting fly. Five rings comprise the target with a bull's eye in the middle and each ring closer to the center

LIVING | LIVE is worth more points, from one to five.

The top three throwers at each event are usually awarded prizes.

Axes typically weigh 2-and-a-half pounds and can be thrown with one hand or two – although Simmons has beginners use the two-handed technique for better accuracy.

“It's easier to throw two-handed because it keeps the axe flying upright,” he said. “There's a little less technique than darts.”

Simmons works in social media and graphic design and got into the business of axe throwing quite by mistake, he said.

“Somebody I worked for up in Waco had an axe throwing business there and was looking for somebody to run the place,” said Simmons. “I had management experience, but I had never thrown an axe in my life.”

Simmons usually finds himself setting up shop at breweries,

As one might expect, most of his clients are beginners who have never thrown an axe, so a crash course in throwing is provided and then it's up to the individual to either Axes typically weigh approximately impress his or her 2-and-a-half pounds and are thrown friends with pinpoint more accurately using a two-handed accuracy – or not technique. exactly, said Simmons.

“The worst throw I barbecues and the like, which often ever saw was when someone let the adds an interesting factor into the axe go while it was still on the way up equation – alcohol. behind their head,” he said. “The axe As a result, he said he closely flew straight up and almost hit the monitors his clients to ensure lights on the top of the trailer.” someone who has had one drink But, most people grasp the concept too many doesn't suddenly find rather quickly and the results are themselves with a deadly weapon in usually pleasing to both participants their hands. and spectators, said Simmons.

“I feel like I've really gotten better “We'll get people who are cheering at being able to tell if someone's and when somebody gets their first intoxicated and shouldn't be bull's eye, they're really excited,” throwing,” said Simmons. “There he said. “If there's one thing I want are certain signs, like if someone has people to take away from this, it's they trouble stepping up onto the trailer want to do it again.” or if they're not listening when I'm ~ Story and Photos by Scott Akanewich giving them instructions.”

LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME?

Buyers are my specialty and Liberty Hill is home!

Vanessa Nunez, GRI The V-Group | Realtor® 512.750.5716 vanessa.nunez@exprealty.com aus.exprealty.com

Make your a

DREAM REALITY.

Call me today for a fast and stress-free prequalification & mortgage experience! eXp ICON Agent 2017, 2018, 2019 Platinum Top 50 Agent 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 Salesperson of the Year, Austin Board of Realtors 2017 Austin Business Journal Top Producer Nominee 2015, 2016

Lower Your Existing Rate Home-Improvement New Purchase

Susie Oberpriller

Producing Sales Manager OFFICE (512) 489-1947 MOBILE (512) 630-6783

soberpriller@UHM.com NMLS 1242421

L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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LIVING | HOME

TAKING THE PLUNGE Now is the time to dive into your pool project

This beautifully landscaped swimming pool and spa by Paradise Pools & Spas turned this backyard into an oasis.

F

ebruary might not seem like the best month to go for a dip in the pool, but it is one of the better times of the year to start planning on building a pool to beat the Texas summer heat.

Peggy Henry, who owns Liberty Hill-based Paradise Pools & Spas with her husband, Carl, said building a pool is like building a home.

“There are so many options,” she said. “You can do a simple, classic pool or you can do a bunch of options like waterfalls and fountains. You have to determine what type of pool you want. Is it going to be a volleyball

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L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

pool? Is it going to be a family pool?

Do you want a spa? Do you want to be able to dive?”

Because everyone is very individual in what they want, Henry said using a custom pool builder is a good idea.

A consultation in a homeowner’s backyard can help narrow down the type and size of the pool they want.

Dane Seward, owner of Liberty Hill-based GK Pools, said the construction industry, including pool building, is busy right now. A lot of factors contribute to that, with COVID-19 being the largest.

“With COVID, it’s hard to get

supplies, so supply and demand is through the roof,” he said.

Usually December and January are the months most people want to start building their pool so it’s finished before summer, but Seward said because of the delays in materials, he doesn’t expect many new pool owners to be swimming this summer.

“A lot of contractors are three to four months backlogged because they still haven’t started on jobs from last year, which creates a domino effect,” he added. “Customers need to understand that putting in a pool will take about three times longer than

LIVING | HOME

“There are so many options out there, and you need to have an idea of what you want before you get started."

“Your budget and yard size matter, and from there I recommend going on something like Pinterest before you meet with a contractor, so you can figure out your style,” Henry said.

“There are so many options out there, and you need to have an idea of what you want before you get started.”

Seward said because of COVID-19, there’s not much cost savings to find on a pool right now, but he

understands budget is a main factor.

He warns that not springing for the best materials could be more expensive in the long run.

“If you don’t use good materials in the beginning, you’ll pay for it eight or nine years down the road,” he said.

“You’ll have to increase your budget significantly at the beginning to avoid this, but then you’ll be good to go as the years go by.”~ By Rachel Madison

~ Peggy Henry

normal. Everything is going at turtle speed, and it’s frustrating waiting on materials and equipment, but that’s just how things are right now.”

There is a very wide range on construction time frames and pricing for backyard pools, even more so now that COVID-19 is a factor, Seward said. In a typical year, construction takes 60 to 90 days, depending on the type of pool and how many features will be installed. The cost ranges anywhere from the upper $60,000s for a basic pool up to over $200,000 for a pool with more features.

For more beautiful pool ideas visit our site

ParadisePools.com

If you're planning to construct a pool this year, allow for some delays due to increased demand for supplies.

512-515-7665

3200 RR 1869, Liberty Hill L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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THANK YOU, LIBERTY HILL, FOR YOUR VOTES!

719 Hwy 183 N, Suite B112, Liberty Hill

Best Insurance Agency

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LIVING | HEALTHY

INJECTING HOPE COVID-19 vaccine makes its way to Williamson County

A

s the COVID-19 pandemic marks a year in Texas, vaccines making their way to the area could be the light at the end of the tunnel.

New York-based Pfizer and German company BioNTech presented data in November showing their vaccine had reached over 90 percent effectiveness.

On Dec. 11, the FDA granted an

emergency use authorization for the vaccine, the first-ever in U.S. history.

The vaccine is an mRNA vaccine, one that can be manipulated to create specific proteins in the body. The COVID-19 vaccine carries instructions for building coronavirus proteins. The proteins are released into the body and evoke a response from the immune system, creating a resistance.

"The vaccine is most effective when the patient has received both doses of the vaccine."

- Jen Stratton

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With the vaccine ready, distribution is in its early stages across the United States. Williamson County is partnering with Family Emergency Room to get the vaccine out to as many people as possible.

“Our greatest challenge is meeting the demand for the vaccine. We are working closely with (Department of State Health Services) to ensure vaccine doses arrive in Williamson County,” said Family Emergency Room Spokeswoman Jen Stratton.

“Family Hospital Systems knows there is enormous interest in receiving the vaccine. We ask the public to be patient as we continue to improve our system to meet the demand.”

The first group to receive the vaccine were first responders with the most immediate risk of contracting COVID-19. Those in the 65 or older range and at higher risk have since been added. Families are highly encouraged to get their older or at-risk relatives vaccinated as soon as they can.

“Getting the vaccine dramatically reduces the chances of contracting COVID-19,” said Stratton. “The vaccine is most effective when the patient has received both doses of the vaccine. It is important for people to get vaccinated to stop the spread of COVID-19.”

As with any vaccine, there is always the potential for side effects.

“Most of our patients are saying they experience a sore arm at the vaccine site that lasts a day or two,” said Stratton. “There have been patients that have experienced headaches or tiredness.”

Over the next few months, Williamson County will be hosting mass vaccination sites to ensure

LIVING | HEALTHY

COVID-19, THE VACCINE PFIZER-BIONTECH GENERAL INFORMATION • Multidose vial: Up to 6 doses per vial • Dosage: 0.3 mL • Diluent: 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) • Age Indications: 16 years of age and older • Schedule: 2-dose series separated by 21 days • Administer: Intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

MODERNA GENERAL INFORMATION • Multidose vial: 10 doses per vial • Dosage: 0.5 mL • Diluent: None • Age Indications: 18 years of age and older • Schedule: 2-dose series separated by 28 days • Administer: Intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle

INJECTION SITE: Pain, Swelling

HELPFUL TIPS

Side effects may feel like flu and even affect the ability to do daily activities, but should go away in a few days. If there is pain or discomfort, consult a physician about taking an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

To reduce pain and discomfort at injection site: • Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area. • Use or exercise arm.

To reduce discomfort from fever: • Drink plenty of fluids • Dress lightly, In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal.

Contact your doctor or healthcare provider: • If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours • If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days

as many people get vaccinated as possible to cut into the rising COVID-19 numbers.

“Family Hospital Systems has worked to make a safe, efficient process to ensure minimal contact while receiving the vaccine,” said

Stratton. “We require appointments to maximize an orderly and speedy flow through the vaccine process.

While we are required to observe patients for 15 minutes after administering the dose, we are working to ensure a timely process

OTHERS: Fever, Tiredness, Chills, Headache

where we vaccinate in less than five minutes.”

Until more people receive vaccinations, and COVID-19 contractions begin to slow down, it's recommended that residents continue their safe practices.

- Story by Anthony Flores

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AN INTIMATE TWIST

Venues pivot to keep wedding dreams alive

T

he guest list, check. Caterer and cake, check. Beautiful dress, check. The perfect location, check. Masks, social distancing guidelines and capacity restrictions. Check?

Some things just don't naturally go together, and every restriction and precaution folks have lived with for nearly a year under the cloud of COVID-19 have worked against every couple's dream of the perfect way to tie the knot.

It has also worked against three

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area venues that all opened with big plans just before the pandemic hit, and patience and innovation has been the name of the game.

Shannon Minor, the owner of Diamond Barrel, said they held their grand opening in February 2020.

“When they started shutting things down in March we pretty much pulled back on everything,” she said.

“We weren't established enough to know how the business worked through something like this.”

They immediately scaled back

plans and refocused their efforts on further improvements to the property and business, waiting for the right time to start back up.

They jumped back into things in November and business quickly took off.

“Immediately we began getting business for this year, next year and 2023,” Minor said. “People are preparing for weddings. It's good news.”

Lone Star Oaks hosted its first wedding in October 2019, but only CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

The rustic charm of Diamond Barrel is completed by a majestic sunset.

The doors at Lone Star Oaks make a perfect photo backdrop.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

four months later things changed dramatically. Things have only recently begun to change for the better.

“It is beginning to pick up,” said Mary Spradlin of Lone Star Oaks. “It was literally dead for quite a while. We just had engagement season so girls are excited. We have a lot who are not booking until next year. It's amazing that our December of 2022 is almost full and we have girls requesting 2023.”

While visits and bookings are picking up, Shawn Oehrlein of Shooting Star Ranch said couples are still moving forward cautiously.

“Normally in January we will have at least 50 people coming to check things out and do tours to get lined up for their wedding,” Oehrlein said. “It's been quieter than normal this year, and I think a lot of people just don't know what to do. People are a little unsure.”

Today, all the typical questions are sprinkled with new ones to address pandemic-related issues.

“We ask if they have any preferences like doing different

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wristbands that tell if you hug, do you not, do you want to wear masks, are they required,” Minor said.

The biggest question for couples is often how many people can they include.

“We are limited in capacity for indoor events at this point and we follow guidelines pretty much with restaurants at this time,” Oehrlein said.

But many area venues have both indoor and outdoor options that create more opportunities “One thing really unique about Shooting Star Ranch is we have full capacity outside at all times,” Oehrlein said. “We can hold an event outside and they're not held to a capacity level right now if you're outside. We always practice social distancing, have hand sanitizing stations and follow safe practices.”

In the spirit of innovation, most venues have come up with a plan that adheres to safety protocols and still gives couples the special wedding celebration they imagined – only on a smaller scale. Mini weddings are the newest thing.

“That's more the direction the

wedding industry is going, kind of the micro style,” Minor said. “It is a chance to experience the wedding more instead of just worrying about the number of guests.”

The mini weddings are complete packages and much shorter, but a popular option today.

“We have had several of these,” Oehrlein said. “They have their ceremony and we provide everything.

We have the minister, the cake and champagne, we have a horse and carriage, the first dance. It's all within a two-hour window. It's all decorated and all they have to do is show up.

It's a great way for people to come and get married now and do their big reception later.”

They are also much more economical in what can be a difficult financial time.

“A lot of people can't justify right now a big wedding,” Spradlin said.

“For some couples one of them is unemployed right now, and they had been putting money aside and saving, and now they can't do that.

But they still want to go ahead and get married.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

Those on the fence should consider a simpler option and just take the plunge.

“We've had a lot of ceremonies from last year that have postponed or moved and now they still don't know what to do and it makes sense to get married,” Oehrlein said. “Just get married and enjoy the experience.”

For couples still wanting to plan a larger event and more involved ceremony, there's no time like the present to begin looking for the right venue.

“They should plan in advance as far as they can,” Spradlin said. “A lot of venues had dates for this year booked up by brides from last year moving their dates. There are limited dates this year, so people have to get their venue as soon as possible, because many are already even going to next year.”

Whether it's an open bar, how catering decisions are made or how payments are made, there is an endless number of questions to ask when looking for a venue. Minor said the best place to start is with what a couple has prioritized as most important.

“There are going to be very much the same things at every venue,” she said. “Think about what is really important to you. What is the experience that you want your guest to have at your wedding?”

Do the research, ask the questions and know specifically what's included and what will be extra later on.

“We include so much that we don't charge extra for,” Spradlin said. “It amazes me what some venues charge for that we don't. Always ask what's included before making your choice.”

Whether it is the more rustic charm of Diamond Barrel, the signature doors of Lone Star Oaks or the magic of the restored barn and expansive outdoor area at Shooting Star Ranch, all three – and many other area venues – have their own unique signature.

“We have our barn, which I know is fairly popular when you get into the Hill Country. We call what we have rustic elegance,” Minor said. “Instead of having the farmhouse feel our barn feels completely different and looks different. We have a lot of the rustic landscaping. It is casual but elegant. It has a very calming feel to it.”

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~ Story by Mike Eddleman Photos provided by Diamond Barrel, Lone Star Oaks, Shooting Star Ranch L I B E RT Y H I L L L I V I N G | F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Shooting Star Ranch offers indoor and outdoor entertaining.

Check out these area venues Angel Springs Event Center 1500 County Road 267 Georgetown, TXa 78628 (866) 771-1500 iangelspringsevents.com

Lone Star Oaks 3354 CR 236 Liberty Hill, TX (832) 483-6115 www.lonestaroaks.com

Casa Rio De Colores 1130 County Rd 279 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 515-5911 www.casariodecolores.com

The Milestone | Georgetown

by Walters Wedding Estates 5299 W Hwy 29 Georgetown, TX 78628 (972) 317-7464 www.themilestone.com

Diamond Barrel 1101 Co Rd 284 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 848-0143 www.diamondbarrel.com Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard 24912 Singleton Bend E Marble Falls, TX 78654 (512) 267-6310 www.flatcreekestate.com HighPointe Estate 5555 Co Rd 258, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 636-9200 www.highpointeestate.com Kindred Oaks 2100 Co Rd 176 Georgetown, TX 78628 (512) 260-9690 www.kindredoaks.com Liberty Hill Learning & Event Center 14875 W State Hwy 29 Liberty Hill, TX 78645 (512) 548-6533 www.lheventcenter.com Lonesome Pine Event Center 6145 FM2657 Briggs, TX 78608 (512) 761-0880 www.lonesomepineeventcenter.com

Reunion Ranch 850 CR 255 Georgetown, TX 78633 (512) 515-6200 www.reunionranch1.com Shooting Star Ranch 1704 Co Rd 285 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 (512) 778-6500 www.shootingstarranchtexas.com Villa Antonia 19039 Adrian Way Jonestown, TX 78645 (512) 267-3509 www.villaantonia.com The Vineyard at Florence 8711 W. FM 487 / 111 Via Francesco Florence, TX 76527 (512) 572 7000 www.thevineyardatflorence.com Twisted Ranch Weddings 7345 W Farm to Market Rd 243 Bertram, TX 78605 (512) 553-5365 www.twistedranchweddings.com Wagon Springs Ranch 2440 County Road 200 Burnet, TX 78611 (254) 679-1724 www.wagonspringsranch.com

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LIVING | TO EAT

LHHS ALUM FINDS SUCCESS WITH 'FEED THE SOUL' Noelia Hernandez is baking sweet treats to lift spirits

Noelia Hernandez' Chocolate Chip Cookies

I

t wasn't long ago Noelia Hernandez was baking for grades in the Liberty Hill High School culinary program. Graduating last year, she is already putting those talents to work to give back to her community.

Feed the Soul is Hernandez’ digital storefront, where she takes orders for a bevy of baked goods. The online bakery is a jumping-off point into the extensive world of baking.

“For now, it’s small and not many people. I make baked goods and haven’t really done any markets yet,” she said. “It’s small, but since I’ve started talking to people, it’s been

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growing. I’m definitely evolving and finding new things.”

She began with box mixes, something she said is difficult to ruin if you stick to the instructions, but it is what sparked her passion.

“I don’t know what I baked that told me this was my future. It’s not exactly what desserts I make, it’s the feeling I create that I love,” said Hernandez. “That would have to be what told me I wanted to do this forever. One of my favorite first things I made from scratch was a recipe my grandma’s friend gave me.

It was pineapple upside-down cake

made with loaves of bread, and boy, let me tell you that thing is amazing.”

It was at Liberty Hill High School that Hernandez started to enhance her skills. Her former instructor, LHHS Chef Travis Hawthorne, said he isn’t surprised at one of his former star pupil’s endeavors.

“She was always a very determined student and had an intense passion for baking that you seldom see in someone her age,” said Hawthorne.

“As her former Culinary Arts Instructor, I couldn't be prouder, and I wish her every success with her new venture.”

The love of her hometown plays a vital part in why and how Hernandez bakes.

“I grew up in Liberty Hill when it was smaller, not that it’s not anymore. It’s still very familyfriendly, but when I grew up, everybody really did know everyone,” she said. “I like that small-town feel, and I want to be able to provide a little treat to lift somebody’s day up and give them that same warm, fuzzy feeling. I want my baking to feel like a small close community. I like hearing how my little cookies and treats make things better for people.”

Baking is more than a future career for Hernandez. The young baker finds solace in the intricacies involved in the kitchen.

Hernandez’ volunteer spirit shines as strong as ever. She hopes to eventually open her own business, and a part of that includes charitable meal donations.

Traditional latticed Apple Pie

“I like that small-town feel, and I want to be able to provide a little treat to lift somebody’s day up and give them that same warm, fuzzy feeling."

- Noelia Hernandez “I think it’s super important to help those in need,” she said. “If I can help by supplying a treat, sweet or savory, I will. I thank God every day for all I have. I am fortunate enough to have a home, food, and an amazing support system. I'm not able to offer much, but the little that I can do is super important. I am not in this for the money or fame that may come. All I want to do is say I did my part in making the world a better place one treat at a time.”

A student of Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Austin, Hernandez’ original goals have shifted as her education continues.

“I’m learning that pastries are good, but people like having options,” she said. “I’m thinking of opening a café instead. If I went with a sandwich shop, I could donate a meal to someone instead of just one dessert.”

It’s clear baking offers more than just a career for Hernandez. It’s about giving back and pouring a bit of positivity into the cake mix called her community.

“This is the absolute best feeling in the world. I do it for my family and friends. To me, customers are not just random people,” she said. “They are people I want to get to know so I can create the best dessert or treat for them. I want to create an amazing experience that they can share with their friends and family. The smiles and joy I see in their faces are honestly payment enough. If I could do this for free, I would.” ~ Story by Anthony Flores

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LIVING | ON THE ROAD

LOST IN THE PINES

Bastrop a short trip for a quick getaway

A half-dozen area parks in Bastrop provide miles of trails to hike under the cover of tall majestic pine trees.

I

f you can't see the forest for the trees, you might already be in Bastrop.

There's no denying the beauty of the Central Texas landscape, but if you ever need a little change of pace, something uniquely special is only a short drive away.

Southeast of Austin is a forested oasis that feels like a different world.

Tall, majestic pines seem to ascend out of nowhere in Bastrop, providing a backdrop for an easy weekend getaway.

The town of just under 10,000 is the county seat of Bastrop County, and a tree-shaded courthouse

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and the Colorado River bookend a bustling downtown with plenty to offer. Restaurants and shops line Main Street, offering plenty of dining options and interesting finds.

The shopping highlight downtown is Astro Record Store, a dream come true for hunters of old vinyl. We walked out with nearly 10 finds for under $40, and found dozens more that were tempting.

As you stroll through downtown make a stop at the Courthouse, and Bastrop Christian Church for a little history. The original church was founded on the same site in 1867, a short walk from the Colorado

River, and the current building is a beautiful white with a relaxing garden space.

The real dining treasure in Bastrop though, is not in town, but a little bit out of town on Texas 304. We Slaughter Barbecue found a way to combine the nostalgia of our favorite horror movies with some tasty barbecue favorites. Don't be fooled when you pull up and see nothing but a rusty pickup truck and a plain white building with the small sign on top. Once inside, the joint is anything but plain.

The barbecue is delicious, and a store – where you stand in line to place your order – is nothing but wallto-wall horror movie souvenirs, dolls, t-shirts and random items you never knew you might need. It may not be your favorite barbecue in Texas, but the atmosphere is unforgettable.

All the food and shopping aside, the real reason to get lost in Bastrop is to explore the pine forest that covers the area. Maybe it's Bastrop State Park and its Civilian Conservation Corps structures, or one of the two Lower Colorado River Authority parks that CONTINUED ON PAGE 58

The real reason to get lost in Bastrop is to explore the pine forest.

Special thanks to the Liberty Hill community for naming us Best Charitable Organization!

Food Pantry & Thrift Store Come have fun in church! You don’t need to be a cowboy to attend our church. Our message is straight from the Word of God and our music is a combination of energetic praise and “good for the soul” worship with a country flair.

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LIVING | ON THE ROAD

We Slaughter Barbecue may look like an nondescript old building along Texas 304, but inside it is anything but with tasty barbecue and wall-to-wall horror movie nostalgia and souvenirs.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 56

line Lake Bastrop. All three parks offer ample swimming, fishing and hiking opportunities, as well as camping options. Hiking among the pines keeps the heat at bay during summer months and is a delightful new landscape in comparison to other local hiking options.

The river offers fun as well with places to swim or just sit in the river and sun, or kayak. Well off the beaten path there is Bastrop County Nature Park and the Colorado River Refuge, both of which offer easy hikes along the banks of the river and are muchless visited destinations than the other parks.

Bastrop's Fisherman's Park has a

The Art V is a vintage travel trailer that was given new life as an art piece that doubles as a cozy, comfortable place to stay while visiting Bastrop.

public boat ramp, play areas and a more conventional walk along the river just a block off of downtown if you're just looking for a stroll or some casual play time.

There are more than 20 lodging options in town, with everything from upscale Lost Pines Resort and a variety of bed and breakfasts to economy hotels along Hwy 71. You can also search unique area options online. We found the Art V – an old travel trailer turned functioning art piece – out in the country, 10 minutes from town, and could not have been more comfortable or relaxed between meals and hikes.

~ Story and Photos by Mike Eddleman

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If it's for breakfast it's on the menu, in heaping portions. If you want breakfast at Maxine's though, and you will, be prepared to wait a bit. The Texas Benny was spectacular. www.maxinescafe.com

CEDAR'S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

A great lunch or dinner stop with traditional Greek and Italian favorites in a more upscale dining atmosphere. You can go all in on a big meal or enjoy light Mediterranean bites. www.cedarsmedgrill.com

BASE CAMP DELI

This lunch-only option is great for a fresh salad or homemade sandwich, and there's a patio for shaded dining. www.basecampdeli.com

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LIVING | FOUR LEGGED

PARADE OF PETS

TIFFANY SKAGGS

Milo

Liberty Hill residents show off their critters

Photos Courtesy Facebook.com/LibertyHillIndependent

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We are a full service bank with a community feel and we look forward to providing Liberty Hill with the best service for all your banking and lending needs.

12251 W. SH 29 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | 512-778-6305 www.Classic.Bank

Best Trash Pickup Service

301 County Road 307 PO Box 416 Jarrell, Texas 76537

Jarrell (512) 746-2000 Leander (512) 259-1709 FAX (512) 746-5807

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME OR PROPERTY?

Thank you to the Liberty Hill community and our clients for their support throughout the years and for your votes!

WINNER

WINNER

WINNER

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

FRIENDLIEST EMPLOYEE

RE/MAX Town & Country

Shane T. White

Ginger Floyd

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SELLING LIBERTY HILL!

RE/MAX Town & Country 13561 W. State Hwy 29, Liberty Hill shanetwhite@remax.com www.ShaneTWhiteTeam.com

512.515.5253 Shane T. White

Clyde Davis

Connie Fuller

Ginger Floyd

Michelle Cearley

Debby Norman

Mendy Wright

With over 150 combined years of selling real estate, no one knows Liberty Hill better than the Shane T. White Team.

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