Each year at The Independent, we highlight the best of what our community has to o er in a wide variety of goods, services, organizations and individuals that make Liberty Hill such a special, unique place.
In fact, this year, we redesigned our process to make the voting easier and more streamlined to maximize participation and enjoyment levels.
We also brought back our Spirit of Liberty Hill award, which shines the spotlight an individual or organization that truly embodies what our town is all about.
Simply put, Best of Liberty Hill is exactly what it implies – the best of the best!
-Rachel Madison and Scott Akanewich, publishers
Check website calendar for details!
Join bestselling authors for live virtual talks and Q&As now available through Library Speakers Consortium! Stream events, ask questions, and catch replays anytime. Register for the next chat at www lhpl org or listen to past author talks on demand.
Latest business news and what’s coming soon to Liberty Hill
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Waffle House
11730 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
A filing in October from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shows Liberty Hill will be home to a Waffle House in 2026. According to the filing, the Waffle House will be an 1,840-square-foot restaurant build from the ground up adjacent to Taco Bell and McDonald’s near the entrance to the Stonewall Ranch subdivision. Construction is estimated to begin in June 2026 and be completed by December 2026.
Dau Sushi
2082 N. Hwy. 183, Leander
Dau Sushi is opening in the Shops at San Gabriel, next door to Sabino's Pizza Pub, in late November, with a grand opening planned for Nov. 28.
OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS
• Sante Latte
Stonewall Ranch, Liberty Hill
• The Pop Fizz
Santa Rita Ranch, Liberty Hill
• Secret Date Society
Santa Rita Ranch, Liberty Hill
• Milan's Kitchen
112 CR 214, Liberty Hill
• Dream Legacy BBQ
112 CR 214, Liberty Hill
• Hill Country Tavern
3317 E. Hwy. 29, Bertram
RETAIL
San Gabriel Roadhouse
1100 Main St., Liberty Hill
A new decor store, called San Gabriel Roadhouse, has opened in downtown Liberty Hill in the former location of Quick Service Garage. The shop is owned by Antonio Garcia of Liberty Hill.
Mercado Libertad
13750 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
A Mexican market called Mercado Libertad is planned for the former location of 123 Playroom, adjacent to Subway and Cricket Wireless.
OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS
• Bloom & Brew Online, Liberty Hill
• Heavenly Cowgirl 118 W. Vaughan St., Bertram
SERVICES
Deep Roots Insurance Solutions
Liberty Hill
Liberty Hill resident Jaime Schultze launched Deep Roots Insurance Solutions in October. Her independent agency offers home, auto, RV, landlord and commercial insurance services.
HT Fitness
9975 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
HT Fitness is opening a new
location in Liberty Hill. While a timeline for the construction of the new gym hasn't been disclosed, once open, the gym will offer 24/7 access and free classes to its members.
OTHER NOTABLE PROJECTS
• NextGen Cricket Academy
114 Holmes Rd., Liberty Hill
• Pohl Jensen
13740 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
• Alpine Crest Marketing Online, Liberty Hill
• Relentless Wraps
225 CR 214, Liberty Hill
• Pragma Jiu Jitsu
1633 N. Hwy. 183, Liberty Hill
• The Boxing Academy Hwy. 183, Leander
• JKB Construction
14750 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
• Train Blackhorse
907 Jase Reid Ln., Liberty Hill
ON THE MOVE
Lone Star Boat and RV Storage
19790 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
Lone Star Boat and RV Storage signed on as a U-Haul neighborhood dealer to serve the Liberty Hill community.
Lone Star Boat and RV Storage will offer essential services like U-Haul trucks.
Shin Gan Dojo
141 Jonathan Dr., Liberty Hill
Shin Gan Dojo instructors, Brian and Gigi Simmons, recently returned from advanced training in Japan. Their study focused on deepening their knowledge and foundational philosophy of one of the classical martial art disciplines they teach, Asayama Ichiden Ryu, ensuring the highest level of instruction for students in Liberty Hill.
Radiant Salon & Spa
2921 RR 1869, Liberty Hill
Radiant Salon & Spa celebrated eight years in business in October. The salon offers a variety of services, including nails, hair, lashes and more.
TW Dieckmann, Williamson County
100 Wilco Way, Georgetown Williamson County named TW Dieckmann as its next senior
director of parks and recreation. Dieckmann will be the fourth parks director in Williamson County, following the retirement of current director Russell Fishbeck in October. Dieckmann arrives in Williamson County after serving in a director capacity for the past 15 years.
Pablo Serna, Williamson County
100 Wilco Way, Georgetown Williamson County named Pablo Serna as its new county architect. In this role, Serna will oversee the planning, design and construction of county facilities to ensure projects are efficient, functional and designed to serve the community for years to come. Serna brings more than 20 years of experience in architecture, design and project management.
The Blue Door Gift Store and Boutique
14365 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
The Blue Door Gift Store and Boutique celebrated its eighth birthday in October with month-long celebrations and sales. The store offers clothing, shoes, accessories, home decor and more.
Liberty Hill Independent News & Media
Liberty Hill
Liberty Hill Independent News & Media celebrated 38 years in business in late October. The newspaper and media company is locally owned and operated, and is a woman-owned and veteran-owned business.
Slot-T Beer Co.
931 Main St., Liberty Hill
Float the River Brewing in downtown Liberty Hill recently rebranded to Slot-T Beer Co., which is a nod to the style of football played at Liberty Hill High School. The brewmaster and recipes will remain the same.
Agape BBQ
3610 RR 1869, Liberty Hill
In October, Agape BBQ celebrated five years in business in Liberty Hill.
Cowboy Junkers
Santa Rita Ranch, Liberty Hill Junk removal company Cowboy Junkers, owned locally by the Dupres, celebrated three years in business in October.
Kirsten Payne, Health Different Chiropractic
1900 Main St., Liberty Hill
Kirsten Payne recently joined the team at Health Different Chiropractic. She is a doctor of chiropractic.
Magpie Mercantile
102 S. Gabriel St., Bertram
Magpie Mercantile in downtown Bertram recently celebrated its one-year anniversary in business.
The Violet Standard
2921 RR 1869, Liberty Hill (inside Radiant Salon & Spa)
Drea Faith Lashes recently rebranded as The Violet Standard after two years in business. The company offers a variety of lash services.
Theresa Jones, Care First Clinic
12701 Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill
Theresa Jones, FNP, recently joined the team at Care First Clinic, where she specializes in urgent care for patients.
Texas Paint & Fabrication
3684 Hwy. 29, Bertram
Texas Paint & Fabrication, owned by Ed and Nicole Welch, celebrated 11 years in business in October.
Leading with heart
Kate Bunch named Best Community Volunteer for 2025
BY RACHEL MADISON OWNER/PUBLISHER
When disaster strikes, many people look for ways to help. For Liberty Hill resident Kate Bunch, stepping in to serve isn’t a choice – it’s second nature. Her compassion and determination have made her a familiar face in community efforts across Liberty Hill, earning her the title of Best Community Volunteer and first runner-up for Spirit of Liberty Hill in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill awards.
Originally from Reno, Nevada, Bunch’s early career began in healthcare as a certified nurse assistant working in hospice and memory care while a ending nursing school. Her move to Texas in 2012 shi ed her path toward design and construction – a journey that would eventually lead her to Liberty Hill, where she se led permanently in 2019.
“I fell in love with the community,” Bunch said. “Ge ing to know the people, helping them step out of their daily lives and into something joyful – it’s a special feeling.”
A er moving to Liberty Hill and experiencing that special feeling, Bunch wanted to get involved. She began volunteering at The Market LHTX, assisting local nonprofits like L4 Cares and lending a hand wherever she saw a need.
“Any opportunity where I could serve, I sought it out,” she said. “Sometimes that just meant showing up, listening and asking, ‘What do you need?’ That’s where it all starts.”
Her dedication soon grew into advocacy. When she saw the dangers of high speeds on State Highway 29 during school hours without a proper school zone, she began working with local officials to push for safety improvements. Her efforts helped build bridges – literally and figuratively – between residents and city leaders. Earlier this year, two school zones were created along State Highway 29, reducing speeds to 35 MPH during high traffic times.
Bunch’s connections became even more crucial during the July 2025 flood, when she
helped organize relief efforts throughout the Liberty Hill area. She turned to social media to gather information, connect victims with resources and mobilize volunteers. For 17 straight days, she served as a volunteer liaison – fielding messages, coordinating supply deliveries and partnering with groups like Cross Tracks Church, H-E-B and city officials to get help where it was needed most.
“It wasn’t just me,” Bunch said. “It was every volunteer who showed up, every person who listened and shared ideas. Collaboration is what makes Liberty Hill strong.”
Her experience underscored the importance of leadership rooted in empathy and teamwork.
“You have to listen to people’s ideas and use their strengths,” she added. “If you’re flexible and open-hearted, amazing things can happen. I might be the one answering the messages or organizing supplies, but it’s the people beside me who make the real difference.”
Beyond local efforts, Bunch is also turning her a ention to a broader cause – advocating for House Bill 1370, federal legislation that would allow counties like Williamson to establish their own coroners’ offices. The change, she said, would help families avoid painful delays in identifying loved ones a er tragedies.
“People shouldn’t have to wait days or weeks for answers,” she said. “It’s something that can be changed – and it should be.”
Though known for her strong personality and get-it-done a itude, those close to her know her toughness comes from a place of deep care.
“It’s OK to be called bossy if it comes from the heart,” she said. “I’ll take the hits if it means everyone else is OK. I just want to make things be er wherever I can.”
Reflecting on her journey, Bunch said she’s constantly inspired by the resilience she sees in others.
“People in Liberty Hill have such good hearts,” she said. “If you give them a chance to help, they’ll move mountains. All you have to do is give them the opportunity and trust them to shine.”
Kate Bunch (above center, and at right) was voted Best Community Volunteer in The Independent’s Best of Liberty Hill program for her tireless community outreach e orts. Above, Bunch is pictured with Nancy Wilk (left), first runner-up for Best Community Volunteer, and Kendra Cofer (right), second runner-up for Bet Community Volunteer, alongside Katie Amsler and Mayor Crystal Mancilla.
COURTESY PHOTO
KATE BUNCH
Best Community Volunteer Spirit of Liberty Hill (first runner-up)
Fulfi lling a community’s needs
Operation Liberty Hill has served needy for 12 years
BY BRAD MARTIN STAFF WRITER
Liberty Hill is a thriving small town that continues to push its own boundaries, both literally and figuratively.
From one new school a er another landing on the map, to sprawling neighborhood communities that can no longer be counted on two hands, many would say times are good and few would argue that statement.
But there are those who, although they are positive in spirit and strong in their resolve, might see things from a much different perspective.
No ma er the reason, times are much harder for them and they now look to that thriving community for a helping hand, and Operation Liberty Hill continues to stand ready, not only with a helping hand, but with arms wide open.
Recognition has become somewhat familiar territory for Operation Liberty Hill in recent years, including being named the Best Community Organization, first runner-up for Best Nonprofit Organization and second runner-up for Best Thri Shop in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program.
The tragic flood that took place in July also brought with it a surge of added recognition from many who might have lived their entire lives in Liberty Hill and not ever known of the now 12-year-old organi-
zation.
Executive Director Susan Baker spoke of the recognition and welcomes the awareness of just how critical the services that they offer are.
“It lets us know people are starting to recognize Operation Liberty Hill,” she said.
“It’s the recognition of what we do and how important the services we provide are to the community and we want to let everyone know how much we appreciate their votes.”
Though the awards speak volumes to both Baker and Program Director Regina O’Brien, the celebration is short-lived, as there is still so much work to be done.
Given the recent flooding events coupled with the ongoing daily needs of many within the community, Operation Liberty Hill is experiencing some accelerated growth that continues to bring new obstacles to light.
“It was a huge challenge to navigate being both a disaster recovery center and to maintain our standard operations,” said O’Brien, with Baker adding some specifics.
“We had a lot of overtime – let’s just put it that way,” Baker said. “We had to bring in two 40-foot containers and one 21-foot container just to house the flood relief items. We now have 12 outbuildings – we are busting at the seams.”
Operation Liberty Hill’s current leased facility – located at 1401 N. Hwy. 183 – has long served the community in almost
countless regards, but thanks to a generous donation of 2.11 acres from Chris and Casey Pezold back in 2022, Operation Liberty Hill laid claim to its forever home right in the heart of Liberty Hill off 1869 near downtown. This “force for good” as Chris Pezold, who served on the Liberty Hill City Council for three years beginning in 2021, called it, will provide relief and then some to the organization’s cramped spaces.
Not only will it adequately house the food pantry, thri store and other classes and services that are currently offered, the two-story facility will include enough space to open up a warming center when needed, bring those in need together for a proper Thanksgiving meal, or simply provide options for the ebbs and flows of the ever-changing needs of the community. A er years of speculation and design, Baker and O’Brien are pleased to announce the dream is in motion to becoming a reality.
“We are moving forward with the planning and permi ing for the property on 1869,” said Baker. “And sometime next year, we’ll be announcing our capital campaign. There are some needs that aren’t being met in our community, so once we’re back in the heart of Liberty Hill, I think that’s our time to fill those needs.”
As exciting as the prospect of their new facility is, it doesn’t change the fact that their current facility, along with their team, is being pushed to the limits.
So much so, Operation Liberty Hill will be adding Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to its food pantry operating hours. If all goes to plan, they will begin the new schedule on Nov. 8.
“With the whole government shutdown
alone, our numbers are up 36 percent,” Baker said. People are struggling and we’re going to be there for them.”
In addition to the furloughed federal programs, the changing school schedules are also increasing the demand for more meals, to more students, on more days of the week. This finds Operation Liberty Hill on the other end of the spectrum as they look for the community to show up for them via specific food donations and volunteering. Currently, Operation Liberty Hill needs food donations of microwavable bowls like mac and cheese or ramen; easy open cans of chili, hearty soups, beefaroni or ravioli; snacks like small bags of pretzels, Goldfish, microwave popcorn or squeezable applesauce, beef sticks, and granola or protein bars.
Operation Liberty Hill is open to volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 12:30 to 4 p.m., as well as Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Whether it’s through one’s time or donation, being there for those in need is the lifeblood of a community. It not only serves a bigger purpose, but it helps maintain a level playing field.
Just as any sports team ensures the development of all its players, a community, at its core, lives and dies by the hearts of its people.
Celebrating a cherished organization is one thing, but becoming an artery, or even a small vessel, breeds a healthy, thriving community that serves the biggest purpose of all: each other.
For more information on Operation Liberty Hill, visit operationlh.org or call (512) 778-4175.
Susan Baker, executive director at Operation Liberty Hill, stands on the land on RR 1869 donated by the Pezolds that will soon serve as the home of the local nonprofit. FILE PHOTO
OPERATION LIBERTY HILL
New
FOOD AND DRINK
Best Overall Restaurant
Winner: Dahlia Cafe
First Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Beer Market
Second Runner-Up: Liberty Tavern
Best Bakery
Winner: Michelle’s Patisserie
First Runner-Up: Cadillac Cookie Company
Second Runner-Up: The Treat Box TX
Best Bar
Winner: Liberty Hill Beer Market
First Runner-Up: Liberty Tavern
Second Runner-Up: Slot-T Beer Co. (formerly Float the River Brewing)
Best Burger
Winner: Dahlia Cafe
First Runner-Up: Liberty Tavern
Second Runner-Up: Slot-T Beer Co. (formerly Float the River Brewing)
Best Coffee
Winner: Mojo Coffee
First Runner-Up: Forrest Coffee House
Second Runner-Up: The Bebop Coffee Shop
Best Food Truck
Winner: Taqueria Mi Ranchito Jaimes
First Runner-Up: The Food Dood
Second Runner-Up: El Campechano Taco
Best Frozen Treat
Winner: The Yogurt Experience
First Runner-Up: Sweet Retreat TX Ice Cream
Second Runner-Up: Dairy Queen
Best Liquor Store
Winner: Thirsty Penguin
First Runner-Up: Uptown Liquor
Second Runner-Up: Freedom Libations
Best Margarita
Winner: Jardin Corona
First Runner-Up: El Mariachis
Second Runner-Up: Margaritas
Best Pizza
Winner: Fratelli Pizza
First Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Beer Market
Second Runner-Up: Angela Ronzoni’s Pizzeria
Best Taco
Winner: Texas Taco Kitchen
First Runner-Up: Boomers Taqueria
Second Runner-Up: Jardin Corona
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Best Accounting Firm
Winner: Liberty Hill Bookkeeping & Tax Services
First Runner-Up: By The Books
Second Runner-Up: Farahani CPA
Best Bank
Winner: Prosperity Bank
First Runner-Up: Classic Bank
Second Runner-Up: VeraBank
Best Mortgage Lender
Winner: Cheryl New, Guild Mortgage
First Runner-Up: Rachel Christian, Christian Mortgage Team
Second Runner-Up: Brandon Rains, Texell Home Loans
Best Title Company
Winner: Independence Title
First Runner-Up: Capital Title of Texas
Second Runner-Up: Austin Title
Best Real Estate Agency
Winner: Jessica Murdock, Magnolia Realty
First Runner-Up: Keller Williams Realty
Liberty Hill Group
Second Runner-Up: A. Gandy & Co.
Best Attorney/Law Firm
Winner: Law Office of Jamie Etzkorn
First Runner-Up: Pennington Law
Second Runner-Up: Ely, Valentine & Reed
Best Insurance Agent/Firm
Winner: McCoy Insurance Agency
First Runner-Up: Schultze Agency
Second Runner-Up: GT Insurance Services
Best Travel Agency
Winner: Travel with Tara
First Runner-Up: World Showcase Vacations
Second Runner-Up: SRH Travel Pros
Best Landscape Company
Winner: XXL Land Services & Hauling
First Runner-Up: Primos Landscaping
Second Runner-Up: Stevens Lawn Care Services
Best Lawn Maintenance Company
Winner: Stevens Lawn Care Services
First Runner-Up: CTX Mowing & Landscape
Second Runner-Up: A–Z Landscape & Maintenance
Best Home Builder
Winner: Grand Endeavor Homes
First Runner-Up: J Murdock Homes
Second Runner-Up: Corker Custom Homes
Best Housekeeping Company
Winner: Bizzy Bees Cleaning Co.
First Runner-Up: Maids and Moore Cleaning
Second Runner-Up: WeClean
Best Laundry Services Company
Winner: Bright Bubble Laundry
First Runner-Up: Martinizing Cleaners
Second Runner-Up: Ivory Cleaner & Alteration
Best Storage Facility
Winner: Patriot RV & Boat Storage
First Runner-Up: Storage King USA
Second Runner-Up: Extra Space Storage
Best Photographer
Winner: Harper Rae Photography
First Runner-Up: Kendra Lynn Cofer Photography
Second Runner-Up: Jaclyn May Photography
Best Event Venue
Winner: HighPointe Estate
First Runner-Up: Lone Star Oaks
Second Runner-Up: Soirée Events & Studio
Best Automotive Shop
Winner: Davis Tire and Automotive
First Runner-Up: Capital Automotive & Transmission
Second Runner-Up: Relentless Rides Inc.
Best Computer Repair/Service
Winner: Liberty Hill Computer
First Runner-Up: Longhorn Computers
Second Runner-Up: Sco Solutions
Best Marketing Agency
Winner: Damn Good Marketing
First Runner-Up: Scrappy Marketing Consulting
Second Runner-Up: Top Austin SEO Company
Dahlia Cafe
Thirsty Penguin
SKILLS AND TRADES
Best Pool Builder
Winner: Paradise Pools and Spas
First Runner-Up: Trinity Pool Construction
Second Runner-Up: GK Pools
Best Pool Service
Winner: Liberty Hill Pool Service
First Runner-Up: Blue Ocean Pool Service
Second Runner-Up: Aqua Pearl Pools
Best Pest Control
Winner: Liberty Hill Pest Control
First Runner-Up: Research Pest Control
Second Runner-Up: Mosquito Hunters
Best Fencing Company
Winner: Fenced N Fencing
First Runner-Up: Double Spur Ranch
Second Runner-Up: Stand Strong Fencing
Best Roofing Company
Winner: Freetail Roofing
First Runner-Up: Prosperity Roofing
Second Runner-Up: Urtiz Roofing & Waterproofing
Best Plumbing Company
Winner: Vaquero Plumbing
First Runner-Up: On-Call Plumbing
Second Runner-Up: Quiet Waters Plumbing
Best HVAC Company
Winner: Liberty Air
First Runner-Up: Dean Co HVAC & Appliance Repair
Second Runner-Up: Covenant Air Conditioning
Best Electrical Services Company
Winner: Freedom Electrical Solutions
First Runner-Up: Avery Electrical Services
Second Runner-Up: JTX Electrical
ANIMAL CARE
Best Veterinary Practice
Winner: Liberty Hill Animal Hospital
First Runner-Up: Highway 29 Veterinary Hospital
Second Runner-Up: Comanche Trail Veterinary Center
Best Pet Boarding
Winner: The Dog Ranch at Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: Paws Landing
Second Runner-Up: Dancing Dog Bed & Biscuit
Best Pet Grooming
Winner: Happy Dog Grooming
First Runner-Up: Paws Landing
Second Runner-Up: The Shaggy Paw Spa
Best Dog Trainer
Winner: United K9 Academy of Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: The Dog Ranch at Liberty Hill
Second Runner-Up (tie): Trained By Tiffany
Second Runner-Up (tie): Ashley’s K9 Training
RETAIL AND BEAUTY
Best Boutique
Winner: The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique
First Runner-Up: Simply Home Boutique
Second Runner-Up: Pep & Punch
Best Gift Shop
Winner: The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique
First Runner-Up: Simply Home Boutique
Second Runner-Up: Main Street Marketplace
Best Thrift Shop
Winner: The Vinew Shoppe
First Runner-Up: Country Girl Consignment
Second Runner-Up: Operation Liberty Hill Thrift Store
Best Home Decor Store
Winner: Simply Home Boutique
First Runner-Up: Blinded By The Light
Second Runner-Up: The Blue Door Gift Store & Boutique
Best Florist
Winner: Fletcher’s Florals
First Runner-Up: H-E-B
Second Runner-Up: All Stems From Sophia
Best Artisan Vendor
Winner: Texas Mums & More
First Runner-Up: Bows By Lizz
Second Runner-Up: Papa Chilo’s Healing Hands
Best Med Spa
Winner: Royal Bliss Med Spa
First Runner-Up: Signature Aesthetics & IV Lounge
Second Runner-Up: Beleza Surgery
Best Day Spa
Winner: Royal Bliss Med Spa
First Runner-Up: The Luxe
Second Runner-Up: Clean Slate Waxing Lounge
Best Barber Winner: Bearded
Barber
First Runner-Up: The Hair Stop Salon and Barber Shop
Second Runner-Up: Community Barber & Co.
Best Hair Salon
Winner: The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon
First Runner-Up: Radiant Salon & Spa
Second Runner-Up: Foils & Fades
Best Nail Salon
Winner: VIP Nails & Spa
First Runner-Up: Noir Nail Bar
Second Runner-Up: Kat Vora Organic Nails
Best Lash Services/Artist
Winner: Liberty Hill Beauty Bar
First Runner-Up: The Violet Standard (formerly Drea Faith Lashes)
Second Runner-Up: Laney Beauty Artistry
Best Spray Tan
Winner: Sweet Honey Glow
First Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Beauty Bar
Second Runner-Up: The Glow Co. ATX
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Best Medical Practice
Winner: Liberty Hill Pediatrics
First Runner-Up: Care First Clinic
Second Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Physician Associates
Best Dental Practice
Winner: Liberty Hill Dental
First Runner-Up: West Family Dentistry
Second Runner-Up: Karmm Dental Group
Best Orthodontics Practice
Winner: Liberty Hill Orthodontics
First Runner-Up: Ortho 360 Orthodontics
Second Runner-Up: True Smile Orthodontics
Best Optometry Practice
Winner: Liberty Hill Eye Associates
First Runner-Up: Vista Family Eye Care
Second Runner-Up: Rim Optical
Best Chiropractor Office
Winner: Health Different Chiropractic
First Runner-Up: Cornerstone Chiropractic Center
Second Runner-Up: Grace Chiropractic
Best Mental Health Provider
Winner: Dove Salerno, Sound Mind Integrative Psychotherapy
First Runner-Up: Jenna Fleming, Central Texas Child & Family Counseling
Second Runner-Up: Dr. Jess Garza, Legacy Mindset
Best Physical Therapy Clinic
Winner: Liberty Hill Physical Therapy
First Runner-Up: Texas Physical Therapy Specialists
Second Runner-Up: Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation
Dove Salerno, Sound Mind Integrative Psychotherapy
Simply Home Boutique
EDUCATION, SPORTS AND FITNESS
Best Preschool
Winner: Happy Trails Learning Center
First Runner-Up: Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy
Second Runner-Up: Little People Learning Place
Best Youth Sports Organization
Winner: Liberty Hill Youth League
First Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Youth Football & Cheer
Second Runner-Up: Gold Medal Gymnastics
Best Performing Arts Business
Winner: Liberty Hill School of Music
First Runner-Up: Dance Republic
Second Runner-Up: Lone Star Performance Academy
Best Fitness Center
Winner: WORC Fitness Studio
First Runner-Up: The Iron Plate Training Ground
Second Runner-Up: John’s Gym Liberty Hill
Best Martial Arts
Winner: John’s Gym
Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: Shin Gan Dojo
Second Runner-Up: Vortex Martial Arts
Best Bicycle Shop
Winner: Freedom Bikes
First Runner-Up: AJ’s Cyclery
Best Educational Services
Winner: Kumon of Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: Katie Ramirez College Consulting
COMMUNITY AND LEADERSHIP
Best Church
Winner: The Grove
First Runner-Up: Celebration Church
Second Runner-Up: Cross Tracks Church
Best Nonprofit Organization
Winner: Hope House
First Runner-Up: Operation Liberty Hill
Second Runner-Up: L4 Cares
Best Community Organization
Winner: Operation Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: The Market LHTX
Second Runner-Up: L4 Cares
Best Overall Business
Winner: The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon
First Runner-Up: Radiant Salon & Spa
Second Runner-Up: John’s Gym Liberty Hill
Best New Business (opened in 2025)
Winner: The Yogurt Experience
First Runner-Up: Sweet Retreat TX Ice
Cream
Second Runner-Up: Lone Star Performance Academy
Best Principal
Winner: Monica Miller, Liberty Hill Middle
School
First Runner-Up: Mark Koller, Legacy Ranch High School
Second Runner-Up: Heather Collison, Liberty Hill Elementary
Best Teacher
Winner: Travis Clark, Santa Rita Middle School
First Runner-Up: Bobbi Chock, Liberty Hill Middle School
Second Runner-Up: Alisia Lucas, Liberty Hill Middle School
Best Boss
Winner: Monica Miller, Liberty Hill Middle School
First Runner-Up: Caitlin Abegglan & Lindsay Millican, The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon
Second Runner-Up: Dr. Russel Martin, Comanche Trail Veterinary Center
Best Coach
Winner: David Seaborn, Liberty Hill High School Football
First Runner-Up: Kayla McLeod, Legacy Ranch High School Cheer
Second Runner-Up: Nate Nelson, John’s Gym
Best Community Volunteer
Winner: Kate Bunch
First Runner-Up: Nancy Wilk
Second Runner-Up: Kendra Cofer
Best Medical Professional
Winner: Kaela Thurman, Care First Clinic
First Runner-Up: Dr. Jess Garza, Legacy Mindset
Second Runner-Up: Dr. Sepide Nematian, Baylor, Scott & White
Best Pastor
Winner: Scott Heider, The Grove
First Runner-Up: Ken Dehart, Celebration Church
Second Runner-Up: Corey Ross, Williamson County Cowboy Church
SPIRIT OF LIBERTY HILL
The Spirit of Liberty Hill award is given to an organization, person or business that exhibits the highest level of support and love for the community of Liberty Hill by making a significant impact on individuals as well as the community as a whole.
Winner: Nicci Bontrager, Howdy Liberty Hill
First Runner-Up: Kate Bunch
Second Runner-Up: Liberty Hill Save Our Stars
COMMUNITY CHOICE
The Community Choice award was given to just 12 businesses across the community who didn’t necessarily fit into one of the Best Of categories, but still received an overwhelming number of write-in nominations from the Liberty Hill community.
• Liberty Hill Pharmacy
• Veteran’s Liberty Ranch
• Cotton Candy Cowgirls
• Liberty Mail Center
• Liberty Junk Hauling
• Ginger Glam Tees
• Inked Beauty Plug (inside Liberty Hill Beauty Bar)
• OCB Squared
• Blingle! Premier Lighting of Central Texas
• Good Vibes Inflatables
Liberty Hill Youth League
The Yogurt Experience
Monica Miler, Liberty Hill Middle School
Nicci Bontrager, Howdy Liberty Hill
Beacon of happiness in the form of a ‘howdy’
Nicci Bontrager personifies Liberty Hill spirit
BY BRAD MARTIN STAFF WRITER
Liberty Hill has always been a town beaming with spirit.
From the vast, seemingly endless sea of school colors that adorn every bumper sticker, water tower, business logo or otherwise to the largest, most elaborate homecoming mums that could likely be seen from space, this small town shows up big – every day and in every way.
But this doesn’t happen on its own. It takes a village, as they say, and if Old Mister Webster ever offered a definition of town spirit, you would surely find the face of Nicci Bontrager of Howdy Liberty Hill – who is the winner of this year’s Spirit of Liberty Hill award in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program.
As most people from all generations find themselves on social media at a given point of most every day, chances are Bontrager’s Howdy Liberty Hill content has shown up in their feeds.
For those who also call Liberty Hill home, chances are even better that they hit those like and subscribe buttons and look forward to each new post that showcases all the people and places that make Liberty Hill so special.
Bontrager’s journey to Liberty Hill began as a quest to find some land that would one day welcome her and her family to their forever home, but it quickly became apparent the small town with a big heart was something unlike anything they’d ever experienced and through some fateful events in 2020, their dream became a reality as the foundation was poured and the walls were built, and Liberty Hill soon became more than a location – it became a home.
“I’d never lived in a small town before moving to Liberty Hill,” she said. “I just wanted to get to know everybody and all the things about this town. Everybody knows
everyone and if they need a new air conditioner or if they need help with something – anything – everyone has a friend that can help make it happen. I just wanted to soak that up.”
Soak it up she did. As she started to settle into small town life, she discovered a vast network of people that – in her eyes – had a story to be told, so with some inspiration from similar concepts in other nearby towns, Bontrager launched her social media presence: Howdy Liberty Hill.
“I didn’t know what it was going to turn into, but I knew I wanted to get to know everyone and tell their stories,” she said. “In counseling, you find that a lot of people are lonely, but everyone has a cool story that they want to share. It’s fun to share that with the community.”
A licensed professional counselor by day, Bontrager is afforded a unique insight to people and their individual talents and Howdy Liberty Hill has become the vehicle for those talents and stories to make their way into the hearts and minds of the community, creating an ever-tightening bond with those she helps lift up.
“Liberty Hill has so many cool people,” she said. “I love that the business owners – the ones that know me well – trust me. They trust that I’m there to make them look good.”
As the elephant in the room – also known as Liberty Hill’s continued exponential growth – tends to find its way into most conversations these days, Bontrager still sees a small town that, while it may be growing bigger, seems to be growing in all the right ways and with all the right people – a fitting scenario for her outgoing and energetic personality.
“Hopefully, I’ll just get to know more people,” she said. “My goal is to make sure I’m capturing both sides of town. I want to grow as the town grows and have more people to introduce to the community.”
Bontrager’s content exudes a genuine energy that flows effortlessly through each
story that comes across her social media platforms.
Though many may find it difficult to maintain such a high level of enthusiasm and attention to detail, it comes as naturally to her as a cheering crowd after a touchdown under the Friday Night Lights.
“It’s fun for me,” she said. “I’m a very social, extroverted person and this lets me be creative while getting to know people. It’s just fun getting to tell other people’s stories. I love it when someone comes up to me and is like, ‘Oh, I went to that restaurant that you talked about’ or ‘I popped into that store you mentioned.’ That’s my motivation and it’s so fun to be part of such a cool town that’s in turn helped me come into my own as well.”
The Liberty Hill community spirit is alive and well thanks to people like Bontrager, and she’s just as thankful for the countless vibrant, good-hearted residents that make
this town whole.
From students and teachers to business owners and city officials, she’s telling the tale of a place – a home – like no other through her own unique lens and the story has only just begun.
“So many people I’ve met have similar stories to mine,” she said. “They just felt like they were drawn here. I think this town does that. It takes people and hugs them and brings them in. It’s like that line from that old show ‘Cheers’ – you want to go where everybody knows your name – Liberty Hill is home because so many people want to be a part of its story. They want to be at the festival, they want to support the businesses and they want to support the schools. It’s just – home.”
To follow along with Howdy Liberty Hill on social media, visit her pages on Facebook and Instagram.
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GARAGE SALE
Huge four-family garage sale. Lots of good stuff! Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and Nov. 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 110 River View Road Liberty Hill, TX 78642.
Nicci Bontrager, also known as Howdy Liberty Hill, has been voted The Independent’s “Spirit of Liberty Hill” award winner in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program. PHOTO BY BRAD MARTIN
HOWDY LIBERTY HILL
Blowing away the competition
The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon voted ‘Best Overall Business’
BY JACE BRAZIEL STAFF WRITER
Among the many businesses in Liberty Hill, only one can be the best. In a near hat trick, The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon has earned that title (Best Overall Business), along with the title of Best Hair Salon. Its owners also earned first runner-up for the title of Best Boss.
With a focus on fostering a community and making sure everyone feels welcome, co-owners Lindsay Millican and Caitilin Abegglen have built their business from the ground up.
Millican spoke on the struggles of ge ing a blowdry bar up and running in Liberty Hill.
“My business partner and I – she’s from the East Coast and I’m from the West Coast,” she said. “[Blowdry bars] are very popular in both of those places. Probably one of the biggest struggles is people not understanding what it was. But once they did, it really took off.”
Launching in 2022, The Powder Room began as the new kid on the block, fighting to distinguish itself among the many existing salons in the area. Growing as a business didn’t happen easily.
“It’s a lot of marketing because there’s a lot of competition,” Millican said. “It’s a lot of pu ing yourself out there and not being afraid for people to say no or give you feedback. Just making sure that we can always grow from our mistakes. You can’t do well without falling on your face a couple of times.”
Since its opening, the salon has continued to expand and evolve, with the most recent addition being a boutique. It is likely this comprehensive approach to styling that led to The Powder Room’s success, said Millican. The extensive, ever-growing menu of options available to patrons of the salon consists of everything from haircuts to coloring to special event make-up – and just about
everything in between. Membership options are also available, meaning that the payment structure can be tailored to each customer’s liking.
With styling services ranging from low double-digit costs to mid triple-digit costs, pampering of all levels is available to patrons. In addition, haircuts and style options are available for men and children.
Special event and wedding options make up a big portion of the salon’s menu. Abegglen serves as The Powder Room’s wedding coordinator, offering wedding packages for brides and their guests. Abegglen said her dream of bringing beautiful events to life was key to developing her love for wedding planning.
“I’ve been able to turn that passion into a career I truly love, helping brides feel confident and stressfree on their big day,” states her bio on the salon’s website.
As for what it means to win not only Best Overall Business, but also Best Hair Salon, Millican said the community’s support blows her away.
“It’s always such an honor to even be nominated by the community,” she said. “But to win – especially Best Overall Business – is huge because we have so many amazing businesses in Liberty Hill. It’s really, really special that the community felt that way about us.”
Being first runner-up in the Best Boss category is also something that Millican said she and Abegglen are fla ered by.
“We try to have a really good relationship with our team,” she said. “We try to keep it fun and light, but also productive, and I think it just shows that we’re all in sync with each other. You know, it’s hard to find the right people who mesh. I feel like we found that, and I feel like it shows.”
2023 Best of Liberty Hill program, and with the victories this year, it seems the momentum continues.
“I’ve loved doing hair my whole life,” said Millican. “I think that goes into the business
as well. Making people feel good, making people feel comfortable, it makes it all worth it.”
To learn more about The Powder Room, visit thepowderroomblowdrybar.com.
At the end of the day, the hard work and dedication from Abegglen, Millican and their team have paid off.
The salon also won a bevy of awards in the
The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon, co-owned by Lindsay Millican (far right) and Caitilin Abegglen (far left), was voted “Best Overall Business” in The Independent’s Best of Liberty Hill awards. COURTESY PHOTO
The Powder Room Blow Dry Bar & Salon
Best Overall Business
Best Hair Salon Best Boss (first runner-up)
‘Happy Trails’ to you
Local center voted Best Preschool seventh year in row
BY JACE BRAZIEL STAFF WRITER
As any working parent of young children will tell you, the place you choose to watch your kids during the day is among the most important decisions you will make in your life--and in theirs.
For the seventh consecutive year, residents of Liberty Hill have come to a consensus on the best preschool in the area: Happy Trails Learning Center. The center earned Best Preschool in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program, as it has done in all previous years of the program.
Situated near the intersection of State Highway 29 and Main Street, Happy Trails and its large highway sign are hard to miss. The learning center opened its doors in 2006 and the current owner and director, Tristen Floyd, began teaching there just a year later. Floyd explained the center – especially in terms of curriculum – has changed quite a bit over the years.
“We developed our own curriculum for our infants and toddlers,” she said. “Then for maybe eight or nine years, we’ve had Frog Street Curriculum for three [years] and up. It was two years ago now that they revamped it all and we got it for the whole center.”
Another marker Floyd points to as an indication of the center’s success is their accreditation by the Texas Rising Star Program, a quality and improvement system for child care programs that exceeds child care regulation standards.
“They come in and make sure our teachers are engaging with the children the right way,” Floyd said. “Making sure we are following our curriculum, making sure everything’s labeled with pictures. So that’s been a huge milestone as well because it’s not easy to prepare for and get accredited for that.”
The center’s continued movement toward a more involved and immersive learning environment underscores the seriousness with which it takes its own mo o: “Where children begin their journey on a lifetime of learning.”
But learning is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to earning the title of Best Preschool, according to Floyd. Having a dedicated, energized staff is critical.
“Our staff are fully invested in what they do,” she said. “They’ve become really close with these families, and that’s what we want. We tell them, ‘Be the teacher you want your own child to have.’ They sit down, they love, they spend time with the kids.”
larger center.
“We would love to build a new center –that’s always been a dream of ours. I picture a barndominium style, maybe ranch style [center]. If you want ‘happy trails,’ you’ve go a make it that way,” she said. “Will it happen? I would love for it to, [but] we’ll have to see.”
For now, Floyd believes the top priority is continuing to focus on the success of the center as it is. She spoke of a coming change that the center is excited to implement, fueled by feedback from parents.
These dedicated staff members watch over young children of any age under 5. The center has classrooms for kindergarten readiness programs, which hosts children 4 to 5 years of age, as well as pre-kindergarten rooms with children of 3 to 4 years of age.
In addition, Happy Trails offers infant and toddler rooms, each tailored to the specific stages of early childhood development.
For Floyd, her deep investment in Happy Trails comes from her own experience as a parent and the personal understanding of the responsibility that child care centers have.
“Once we had our son, he just became our world,” she said. “A er that, my love for child care grew even more because I realized these parents have a choice and they are choosing us. We’re going to give these kids love here during the day because that’s all parents want their kids to have.”
As for the future of Happy Trails, Floyd said she and her husband’s dream is to build a
“We’re about to have tablets in all the classrooms [that allow us to] send pictures to our parents daily, starting in January,” she said. “I’m very old school, I really like the piece of paper we send home, but that’s just not working anymore. We’re coming to find out that we need to change that.”
For seven years, Liberty Hill residents have agreed Happy Trails Learning Center is the best preschool around. Floyd expressed her gratitude for the community’s continued support.
“It’s very humbling,” she said. “We’re not the only child care center in town anymore. There are other great centers in town. To keep winning makes me feel like we’re doing something right. To get an award like that, voted on by our community and our peers, it’s special and it means a lot to us.”
To learn more about Happy Trails, visit happytrailslearningcenter.com.
Happy Trails Learning Center owner Tristen Floyd began as a teacher there a year after it opened in 2006.
PHOTO BY JACE BRAZIEL
HAPPY TRAILS LEARNING CENTER
Blingle! shines bright with Community Choice Award
BY RACHEL MADISON OWNER/PUBLISHER
Blingle! of Central Texas has proven that its glow extends far beyond its lighting designs. The local lighting company was named one of 10 Community Choice Award winners in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program – a recognition that celebrates small businesses that embody Liberty Hill’s spirit of service, creativity and community connection.
For owners Kelli Katzman and Chelsea Turner, the honor represents years of hard work, late nights and heartfelt dedication.
“It’s surreal that we’ve been able to build our business that helps us achieve our personal dreams of independence and enjoying our work, while supporting our community,” Katzman said. “To have the community select us as a Best in Liberty Hill is a dream come true and reaching that goal as best friends is indescribable. Our hearts are exploding with joy and appreciation.”
gle! represents,” said Deanna Wilson. “It turned into a great collaboration that connected two Liberty Hill small businesses in a creative way.”
The Wilsons opened Tune Up & Jam ATX earlier this year, bringing a fresh, family-centered approach to music education. Their school focuses on learning by ear, group jam sessions and community-based music-making rather than rigid lessons.
“We want people to experience the joy of making music,” Deanna Wilson said. “If our little jingle made people smile, that’s exactly what we hope to do every day.”
Community Choice
Katzman said she and Turner launched Blingle! not just to illuminate homes, but to brighten people’s lives.
“The Liberty Hill small business community is the heart and soul of what makes this place great,” she said. “We’re so blessed to be included. Thanks to everyone that voted, supported us, and keeps our dreams alive – we love y’all.”
That focus on connection and creativity shines through in everything Blingle! does, including the business’s first-ever community initiative – the Blingle! Jingle Contest, held earlier this year. The friendly competition invited Liberty Hill-area residents to write a short, catchy company jingle celebrating Blingle!’s custom lighting and installation services.
The winning entry came from Tune Up & Jam ATX, a new Liberty Hill music school led by husband-and-wife musicians Deanna and Andrew Wilson. The couple wrote and recorded their tune the night before the deadline — a spontaneous, joyful burst of creativity that captured exactly what Blingle! is all about.
“We just wanted to do something fun that showcased the heart of what Blin-
In addition to the jingle collaboration, Blingle! also helped the Wilsons bring their creative vision to life at their new Liberty Hill studio. The company recently installed custom exterior lighting at Tune Up & Jam ATX, transforming the space into a warm, inviting hub for evening lessons and community jam sessions. The project included string and landscape lighting to define an outdoor performance area the Wilsons plan to use for summer camps and small concerts.
“We wanted the space to feel magical at night,” said Deanna Wilson. “Blingle! understood exactly what we were going for — the lights make it feel like music belongs here.”
Blingle!’s generosity is also shining bright as the holidays approach through its Blingle! Blessing campaign, which the company launched this fall. The program was created by Katzman and Turner as a way to “light up” the home of one deserving Liberty Hill family for the Christmas season.
This year’s recipients, Stephanie and Vance Acker of the Highland Oaks neighborhood, were nominated by a friend who wanted to honor their dedication as foster and adoptive parents. When Stephanie Acker received the surprise call from Blingle!, she said she “spent 30 minutes crying in the driveway.”
“Our family has been in the thick of it these last couple of years,” she said. “Our kids came to us a little later in childhood, and it’s been hard and beautiful all at once. To be chosen for the Blingle! Blessing was
outside her home after outfitting it with Christmas lights for the Blingle! Blessing campaign.
At right, Tune Up & Jam ATX owners Andrew and Deanna Wilson were the winners of the Blingle! Jingle contest put on by the lighting company earlier this year. COURTESY PHOTOS
just the sweetest reminder that people see us – that our community cares.”
The Ackers said the colorful, professionally installed lights, which went up in mid-October, now serve as a daily symbol of joy and encouragement.
“Every time we pull up to the house, it’s a reminder of something hopeful,” Stephanie Acker said. “Christmas lights might seem small, but in a season when you’re
tired and trying your best, it’s a gift that keeps your heart lifted.”
Through creative contests, acts of kindness, and a steadfast commitment to community, Blingle! of Central Texas continues to prove that the brightest lights in Liberty Hill don’t just shine – they give back.
For more information, visit blingle.com/ central-texas-tx.
Above, Blingle! owners Chelsea Tuner (left) and Kelli Katzman (right) take a selfie with Stephanie Acker (center)
BLINGLE! OF CENTRAL TEXAS
Carrying on a colorful tradition
Fletcher’s Florals blossoms under new ownership
BY LESHELLE VALLEJO STAFF WRITER
When Rylie Jaramillo and her husband Joseph moved their family from West Texas to Georgetown last September, they knew they wanted to put down roots in a community that felt more grounded than the hustle and bustle of Austin.
“We just liked this area a little bit better,” Jaramillo said. “It felt right for raising our two kids and building a life.”
This summer, the couple took a leap of faith and purchased Fletcher’s Florals, officially closing on July 1.
For Jaramillo, originally from Colorado, the transition into the floral business has been both unexpected and rewarding.
“I’ve always been a creative person,” she explained. “I love painting, crafting and anything artistic. When the opportunity with Fletcher’s came along, it just felt like a perfect fit. We didn’t have prior floral experience, but we were excited to learn.”
In just a few short months under Jaramillo’s ownership, Fletcher’s Florals has already made its mark – earning the title of Best Florist in the 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program.
“I’m so honored,” Jaramillo said. “It goes to show that even though we’re under new ownership, the community has continued to show incredible support for Fletcher’s Florals.”
Since stepping into ownership, Jaramillo admits the floral design aspect has been her biggest challenge – but also her greatest inspiration.
“The hardest part has been learning flowers and floral design while also trying to bring fresh new ideas into the shop,” she said.
One of her most successful new ventures has been “grab-and-go bundles,” easy pre-made arrangements designed for convenience.
“Not everyone wants to drive into Cedar Park or Austin for flowers,” Ja-
ramillo said. “These quick bundles give people in Liberty Hill an option close to home.”
This fall, Jaramillo hosted flower bar events for both high schools’ homecoming dances, and the community response exceeded her expectations.
“I had this feeling I needed to buy extra flowers the night before,” she said of the first event. “The next morning, girls were lined up outside my shop before we even opened. It was nonstop all day – 25 girls showed up. The parents were so appreciative and it turned into this really memorable, pinch-me moment. I never expected it to blow up like that.”
Jaramillo has her eyes set on more ways to bring people together.
Fletcher’s Florals hosted a floral workshop in October at Thirsty Mule Winery, complete with bouquet-making and a glass of wine.
“It’s just a fun little night out,” she said. “People get to learn something new and leave with a beautiful arrangement.”
Inside the shop, Jaramillo is also expanding beyond flowers. Fletcher’s Florals now offers candles from local makers, handmade pottery, cards, home décor, chocolates and seasonal items like wreaths and poinsettias.
“We really want to be that one-stop shop for flowers and gifts,” she said.
Another early success has been the launch of floral subscriptions. Customers can choose weekly, bi-weekly or monthly flower deliveries or pickups.
“A lot of husbands come in every week, or businesses order for their reception areas,” Jaramillo said.
Currently a one-woman operation, Jaramillo hopes to hire part-time help before the holiday rush.
But no matter how the business grows, her vision remains rooted in Liberty Hill’s small-town spirit.
“Our core value is really about serving the community,” she said. “Whether it’s creating a flower bar for the high school or stocking last-minute gifts so
Rylie Jaramillo (above) and her husband, Joseph, have owned Fletcher’s Florals since July. Fletcher’s Florals was voted Best Florist in The Independent’s 2025 Best of Liberty Hill program.
COURTESY
people don’t have to drive across town –we want to be here for Liberty Hill.”
When asked what advice she’d give to aspiring entrepreneurs, Jaramillo doesn’t hesitate.
“Go for it,” she said. “Believe in yourself. Some days are slow and other days
you’re working until 8 p.m. because you can’t keep up. But the support from this community has been incredible –taking this leap has been so worth it.”
For more information, visit Fletcher’s Florals online at fletchers-florals. square.site.
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Another blowout win as Panthers power past McCallum
Liberty Hill remains tied atop district standings
BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER
Liberty Hill’s 0-2 start to the current campaign already seems like a distant memory, with the latest display of dominance the Panthers’ 58-7 victory over McCallum at House Park in Austin.
Senior Preston Benefield led the Purple-and-Gold ground attack with 163 yards on nine carries including three touchdown runs of one, 49 and 54 yards.
Liberty Hill began the game with a classic Slot-T scoring drive – one that lasted 13 plays, covered 75 yards and chewed up 5:45 off the clock before the Knights even saw the ball offensively for the first time, as Benefield plowed over from the one, then added a two-point conversion run for an 8-0 advantage.
Benefield has become a bit of a twopoint specialist this season, having already scored 10 entering the contest –a fact he attributes to a couple of factors and highlighted a recent example of his qualifications.
“Just being in the weight room and always pushing to be the best version
of myself and when we come out here, I show it,” he said. “Last game against Pflugerville, I had five guys on my back and it took the sixth one to get me down, so the coaches know I’m the one for the job and I know I’m the right one, so when we’re down on that goal line, I’m ready to push it in no matter what.”
However, McCallum responded with an effective short passing game that moved the ball from its own 25-yard-line all the way down to the Liberty Hill 21 before senior Carson Neilson intercepted a pass from Knights quarterback Aiden Ilai to extinguish the threat.
Following the long-winded opening drive, the Panthers only needed four plays to add to their lead when Jack Pitchford broke loose for a 22-yard gain, which set up Benefield for his second score of the night, this one a 49-yard jaunt and a 14-0 lead when the two-point conversion failed.
After the opening period of play ended with the same 14-0 score, the Panthers took a book out of last week’s home game against Pflugerville by once again exploding for four touchdowns in the
second stanza to essentially kill off the game.
First, senior Bryce Muchaw scored his eighth touchdown of the season on a 43yard gallop after breaking through the line and taking the ball straight through the heart of the Knights defense on the way to the end zone.
Dylan Belinga then scampered in from 64 and 63 yards out on back-to-back offensive series before Benefield completed his hat trick of scores with a 54-yard run and just like that, the visitors held a commanding 44-0 lead at halftime.
With the clock running the entire second half, the Panthers only had the ball on two more occasions, but still made the most of both.
Cayden Timmons scored on a 51-yard sprint on Liberty Hill’s third offensive play of the second half, then after the home side had finally gotten on the scoreboard on a five-yard run by Ilai to finish off a long drive, Timmons bettered his first scoring run with a spectacular 71-yard effort to close out the scoring.
On this night, the Panthers’ propensity for long-distance scoring strikes was certainly on full display, as after Benefield’s one-yard run to open the scoring, the other seven Liberty Hill touchdowns averaged an astonishing 56.4 yards.
In addition to Benefield’s big night, Belinga gained 152 yards on five carries and a pair of touchdowns, and Timmons had 122 yards and two scores on his only two attempts of the evening.
According to Panthers head coach David Seaborn, having someone like Benefield is quite beneficial.
“Preston is the kind of kid you want to coach,” said Seaborn. “You have a kid who loves the weight room and has a big heart.”
Benefield is confident in what he’s currently seeing from not only an offensive perspective, but also what his teammates across the line of scrimmage are doing.
“I think we have a really good chance,” he said. “Our offense is looking solid –everyone’s close and we push each other to be better and our defense is really pulling its weight this year – it’s exciting to see everybody come together as a team.”
Seaborn said his team continues to stack good performances – which is required to take them where they ultimately want to go.
“We’re still not perfect and it’s tough to play a perfect game,” he said. “But, we strive every single day for perfection and we’re getting there, but we’re not there yet.”
Liberty Hill’s Preston Benefield (34) led the Panthers with 163 yards rushing and three touchdowns in a 58-7 away district win over McCallum. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Panthers senior Bryce Muchaw (5) celebrates after scoring on a 43-yard run during Liberty Hill’s 58-7 away district win over McCallum. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Fast start propels Wranglers to big win, 57-0
Legacy Ranch defeated Cedar Park on Homecoming night
BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER
One thing Tim Knicky wanted from his Wranglers team when it hosted Cedar Park was for it to get off to a fast start on the scoreboard and that’s exactly what played out in quick succession during Legacy Ranch’s 57-0 victory over the Timberwolves on Homecoming night in early October.
“We challenged them tonight,” said Knicky. “I wanted them to start fast – let’s get out and impose our will early.”
All it took for the home side to score its first points of the evening was three plays, as quarterback Will Cunningham sprinted from the pocket toward the le sideline on a 2nd-and-8 play from the Legacy Ranch 32-yard-line and executed a perfectly-timed shovel pass to Reid Robertson, who rumbled 68 yards for a touchdown and a 7-0 lead.
On the very next play from scrimmage, the Wranglers defense got in on the act when Brennon Foster recovered a Cedar Park fumble, which set the Columbia-and-Navy up for its second score of the contest when Cunningham found Ritvik Kasireddy with a conventional pass from the pocket for a 10-yard scoring strike that was followed up by a Troy Ramos run for a two-point conversion and a 15-0 advantage with 7:30 still le in the first quarter.
According to Knicky, his wideouts performed well in adjusting to balls thrown their way.
“Will let it fly tonight and our wide receivers – you talk about some of those touchdown catches – they had to go make plays on those balls – that’s what we needed tonight and
that’s what we got.”
However, the Wranglers still weren’t done scoring in the opening period and once again it was the defense that was the catalyst, when Rex Stroup intercepted a pass and returned it 30 yards for a commanding 22-0 lead a er one.
A er having already scored form one yard out earlier in the second stanza, Mason Hernandez took off on a 75-yard scoring sprint in addition to Stroup – who had taken over for Cunningham by that point – hi ing Ramos with a 21-yard touchdown pass and it was 50-0 at hal ime.
Finally, Legacy Ranch’s third signal-caller of the game, Waylon Johnson, found Jordan Russell with a 50-yard scoring pass to provide the final margin with 4:21 to play in the fourth.
For much of the second half, Knicky was able to empty his sideline by providing just about his entire roster with valuable playing time – just rewards, he said.
“We have a lot of kids that contribute on a daily basis – they’re out here at 5:30 in the morning ge ing a er it at practice,” said Knicky. “So, it’s good to see them get some tackles and score some touchdowns.”
Knicky played and coached at Cedar Park, so the night’s opposition was more than just another game, he said.
“It’s always cool playing against somewhere I’m from and got the opportunity to coach,” said Knicky, who graduated in 2006 a er playing for the Timberwolves and later returned as a coach. “Cedar Park has been such a great program for so many years, so it always means a li le more playing those guys, but our kids really showed up tonight, so it was about them and the community.”
Wranglers running back Mason Hernandez (1) scored on touchdown runs of one and 75 yards during Legacy Ranch’s 57-0 home win over Cedar Park. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Wranglers defenders team up for a tackle during Legacy Ranch’s 57-0 home win over Cedar Park on Homecoming night. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO Hospitality
Tearing up the trails
Panthers cross country enjoys fine campaign
BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER
Another season of trials and tribulations on the trails has come and gone for Liberty Hill’s cross country team, culminating in an appearance at the Class 5A regional meet where Panthers runners represented the Purple-and-Gold in fine fashion.
When the dust had se led among the heat and humidity of Corpus Christi, junior Chase Moederzoon had placed highest of any Liberty Hill athlete with a 17th-place finish in the boys’ race in a time of 16:48.13 in the field of 189 runners.
However, despite his brisk pace around the 5-kilometer Gulf Coast course, Moederzoon just missed out on qualifying for the state championships by a mere eight seconds, as only the top 15 individual finishers advance to the event at Old Se lers Park in Round Rock.
According to Moederzoon, he wasn’t aware of his brush with qualification until well a er the fact.
“We were halfway back home on the bus before I even realized I was so close,” said Moederzoon. “Eight seconds isn’t very much.”
Liberty Hill head coach Kim Holt said Moederzoon is blossoming into a more polished competitor now that he’s fully im-
mersed himself into the complete runner’s lifestyle.
“Chase really enjoys soccer and played until his sophomore year,” she said. “But, then he decided cross country was really what he wanted to do and has really figured the sport out.”
In addition to Moederzoon, senior Luke Stone also qualified for the meet and crossed the line in 118th place with a time of 18:57.09.
Following a second-place team finish at the district event, the Panthers’ girls competed as a squad at regionals and posted a 12th-place result with 295 points to champion Smithson Valley’s 49.
Taylor Jorde led the way for Liberty Hill, finishing in 35th place in 20:50.73 – a surprising result for the freshman, she said.
“I didn’t know what to expect running varsity for the first time this year,” said Jorde, who was firmly established as the Panthers’ No. 1 runner all season. “But, I had great support from my teammates, coaches and the Lord.”
Holt isn’t shocked at all by Jorde’s performance, though.
“Taylor’s an athlete who’s been participating in sports for awhile and has the confidence, which is very important,” she said. “Also, she came out and li ed weights and ran all summer – as freshman a lot of girls aren’t ready for varsity, but she was more
advanced because of everything she had been doing.”
Jorde said despite her relative inexperience, she has taken on the leadership mantle that comes with being a team’s top runner with some help.
“Our team is super-close and we lean on each other,” she said. “So, it didn’t feel much different for me.”
Chloe Egizio (120th, 23:27.19) and Katelyn Pfeiler (136th, 24:03.70) also competed for Liberty Hill in the field of 188.
Performing on such a big stage at season’s end might have worn a bit on her, though, said Jorde.
“I think at regionals, I felt a lot of pressure and didn’t run the race I wanted to,” she said. “But, it was an amazing experience finishing in the top 50 and as long as I keep my mindset right and stay true to myself, I’m excited to see what I can do next year.”
Liberty Hill’s girls’ varsity cross country team qualified for the Class 5A regional meet with a second-place result at the district event. COURTESY PHOTO
Panthers boys’ varsity cross country finished fifth at the district meet and qualified two runners for the regional event. COURTESY PHOTO
Lady Wranglers sweep Northeast in straight sets
Legacy Ranch qualified for playoffs in first varsity season
BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER
Legacy Ranch continued its run of dominant district play with a 3-0 (25-9, 25-5, 25-10) home victory over Northeast, as sophomore Klaire Murphy led the Lady Wranglers with eight kills.
According to Murphy, she and her teammates continued to experience success in their first season of varsity competition due to a couple factors.
“I think our coaching staff is amazing,” said Murphy. “But, we also hold ourselves to a higher standard because last year when we were freshman we didn’t have upperclassman to look up to, so this year it’s important for us to set the example.”
Finally, Moynahan added another pair of aces and Eaton hammered home the match-winner.
Lady Wranglers assistant coach Gretchen Peterson – who is currently filling in for head coach Taylor Bryant, who is on maternity leave – attributed the squad’s success this season to an acceptance of the program’s goals despite its relative inexperience.
Murphy collected the opening kill of the evening, followed by another as the home side quickly built an early lead in the first set with an ace from Madison Sahualla providing a 6-1 advantage.
In all, Legacy Ranch served six aces in the opening set, including a pair each from Murphy and Haylee Roeder to go with another from Autumn Etzkorn on the way to a set win.
Despite getting out to a 3-1 lead to open the second set, the Raiders failed to maintain momentum as the Lady Wranglers quickly regained control of the proceedings, with Murphy sending a winner screaming home, then teaming up with fellow sophomore Kyla Green for a block, who then finished off the set with a kill to put the Columbia-and-Navy in the driver’s seat.
The third set featured an ace by Addie Eaton in the early going, which was followed with subsequent aces by Bella Moschina, Aniya Aleshire and Camille Moynahan – the last of which was sandwiched between kills by Roeder and Murphy and it was 14-6.
“Our kids have just really bought into what the expectations are,” she said. “We’ve gotten over ‘Oh, we’re young, we don’t have that maturity.’ Sure, it still shows up in spurts, but mentally they’re a little bit tougher and are handling things like a true varsity team. We’ve had growth opportunities – like our first five-set match – that have allowed us to maintain our composure and stay committed to the cause.”
Roeder led the Lady Wranglers with 12 assists and three aces, while Moynahan had 10 digs to go with three aces and Audri Spivey added three aces.
For Murphy, she’s back exclusively at her natural outside hitter position this season after also seeing time at setter last year – an experience she feels has enhanced her overall play.
“Last year was fun – it was a new experience I got to do a lot with,” said Murphy. “Hitting is my natural thing, but anything I can do to help the team.”
Peterson said it’s all part-and-parcel for what kind of player Murphy is.
“Klaire has a great volleyball IQ – she’s all-in and it’s a passion for her,” she said. “She’s always in the gym working to get better, was able to handle that last year and it’s helped her evolve into a better leader – we’re seeing lessons learned from playing a role that wasn’t super-comfortable for her. She’s just a really talented player that’s going to continue to grow.”
Legacy Ranch’s Haylee Roeder (7) sets a ball during the Lady Wranglers’ 3-0 (25-9, 25-5, 25-10) home district win over Northeast. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Lady Panthers swept by Cedar Park in fi rst-place showdown
Liberty Hill finished second in district standings
BY SCOTT AKANEWICH OWNER/PUBLISHER
Entering their home district showdown with Cedar Park, the Lady Panthers had only lost a single match in district play this season and it just happened to be against the same opponent they were hosting, which meant the Purple-and-Gold were hungry for revenge against the rival Timberwolves.
However, despite a spirited effort, the home side came out on the wrong end in a 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-22) defeat in a match in which Liberty Hill couldn’t quite muster enough to stay with the visitors.
According to Lady Panthers head coach Marie Bruce, her team’s inability to string points together, while preventing the Timberwolves from doing so eventually cost it the match.
“We have to make sure we’re going on
runs of our own,” said Bruce. “While stopping them from going on runs against us.”
Senior Falon Stroup led the charge out of the gates in the opening set by quickly collecting three kills in the early going, then it was teammate Hannah Griffin who bookended a pair of winners around another by Addison Betzen, but each time the Lady Panthers pulled within a point or two, the Timberwolves extended their lead back out until they ultimately claimed the set.
On several occasions, Liberty Hill’s defense was set for a block at the net, only for the visitors to find an open piece of floor to gently drop shots into – an occurrence Bruce said can be prevented.
“You just have to be ready to move,” she said. “We had some missed opportunities tonight when they sent something easy over, but they’re a talented team, we didn’t capitalize on things and got a bit unlucky.”
Liberty Hill emerged for the second set
with a renewed purpose in taking a 6-2 advantage on the strength of a Macee Walters kill and a pair each from Griffin and Betzen, but in time Cedar Park dutifully chipped away until it took the lead at 12-11 – one it wouldn’t relinquish for the duration of the set.
Undaunted, though, the Lady Panthers came out for the third set a determined group and took an 8-3 lead on kills by Griffin and Stroup and a block by senior Lauren Bedre, who saw increased playing time on the evening.
But, just as they had in the second stanza, the Timberwolves remained calm in slowly
climbing back until finally taking the lead for good at 15-14, enabling them to hold on for the match victory.
Griffin led the Lady Panthers with 17 kills, while Stroup added seven. Betzen had 26 assists and three blocks and Summer Snyder contributed 10 digs to the cause.
Despite defeat for the second time against Cedar Park this season, Bruce knows there is still another possible opportunity against the Timberwolves when it ma ers most.
“We still have three district matches to get be er before the playoffs,” she said. “Our hope is to see them again in regional championship.”
Lady Panthers sophomore Hannah Gri n (14) led Liberty Hill with 17 kills in a 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-22) home district loss to Cedar Park. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Lady Panthers sophomore Summer Snyder (11) keeps a play alive during Liberty Hill’s 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-22) home district loss to Cedar Park. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Liberty Hill’s boys’ soccer team was honored during the Panthers home football game on Oct. 17 for last year’s Class 5A Division II state championship. PHOTO BY ALEX RUBIO
Liberty Hill rancher once served as county sheriff
BY JAMES WEAR COLUMNIST
Among the early se lers in the Liberty Hill area was the Connell family, with Sampson Connell Sr. among those who fought in the war for Texas independence while his grandson, Sampson Connell III, would eventually be elected sheriff of Williamson County.
According to a historical narrative by Billie Connell Jordan that appears on the Williamson County Historical Commission’s website, Sampson III was born in 1857 in Milam County.
Jordan’s account notes that in 1871 he moved with his parents to Williamson County with the family se ling on Bear Creek, “where the family camped out under trees while father and sons built the large two-story house using rock that was quarried by hand and plentiful” on land that his grandfather had received for his role in the fight for Texas’ independence.
The grandfather, Sampson Connell Sr., came to Texas from Tennessee in 1834. The grandfather had fought in the War of 1812 and saw action during the Ba le of New Orleans.
Upon coming to Texas, he signed up with the First Regiment of Texas Volunteers and was among the Texans handing Santa Anna defeat at San Jacinto.
Jordan notes that the grandfather and his son (Connell III’s father) delivered the last
load of supplies to the Alamo before it fell to Mexican troops.
Upon his father’s death in 1873, Connell and his older brother took charge of the Bear Creek ranch. Three years later, Connell would meet the girl that he would eventually marry.
By 1879, Connell o en found himself on ca le drives. Shortly a er returning home from one ca le drive, he married Lillie Ann Bainbridge, whose family came to Texas from Alabama.
In the mid-1880s, he was elected constable and deputy sheriff of the Liberty Hill precinct and went on to serve four years before being elected county sheriff in 1888.
The family moved to Georgetown. He was re-elected in 1890, but due to some technicality his victory was voided.
According to Jordan’s narrative, he then ran a livery stable and hotel for the next few years before once again being elected sheriff. He would serve the next 14 years before retiring.
Connell was sheriff when the last hanging was held in the county, back in 1906, when a man by the name of Tom Young was convicted of killing his 12-year-old niece.
According to an article from that time appearing in the Williamson County Sun detailing the execution that is reprinted on the Williamson County Historical Commission’s website, “Sheriff Connell has been criticized for having such a display of mounted guards around the wagone e in which Young was conveyed to the gallows and around the scaffold itself. He had good reasons for it, as he had been warned by le er and telephone
that an a empt at rescue might be made by Young’s friends. Indeed, a party of them were seen to alight from the train before it reached Georgetown and go off into a pasture as if for consultation. The sheriff believed that something of the kind might occur and took precautions accordingly. He received the warning only that morning and had to act promptly and effectually.”
Following his tenure as sheriff, Connell was a member-elect of the state legislature, representing Williamson and Burnet counties, when he passed away suddenly on Jan. 10, 1915.
Both he and Lillie, who died 16 years later on the same date, are buried at the Liberty Hill Cemetery.
“Sampson was a large man and rode the best horses to be had,” wrote Jordan. “He wore a large Stetson hat, boots and spurs. He was a man all people honored and liked, even the law violators honored and feared him. Sheriff Connell had a reputation of being a fearless officer, natural leader of people in all walks of life; a kind and considerate man.”
According to a memorial posted on findagrave.com describing Connell’s funeral service, “a large number of friends and relatives were present, and the crowd would have been much larger but for the bad condition of the roads, which rendered traveling in autos almost impossible...He had many honest virtues and a racted himself a large number of friends, who always rallied to him when he was a candidate for office. Let us forget his faults--we all have them--and remember his virtues.”
Sampson Connell III earned a reputation as a tough, but fair, law enforcement o cer during his tenure as Williamson County Sheri in the early 1900s. COURTESY PHOTO
LIBERTY HILL
Ceremony
The City of Liberty Hill invites the community to the cherished Liberty Hill tradition to pay tribute to local heroes who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom. The ceremony will feature remarks from guest speaker Ron Rhea, patriotic music, and a special recognition of Liberty Hill’s oldest veteran.
Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to stay for light refreshments and fellowship. The public is encouraged to bring family and friends as Liberty Hill honors the veterans who have shaped our community and our country.
