🌌 Leander takes steps to protect our night skies

_{Was this e-mail shared with you? Sign up here.}

Is it just us, or has this winter been brutal for sickness? Over here, it’s been one thing after another. As soon as one of us starts feeling better, someone else comes down with something. We’ve basically been passing germs around nonstop, despite disinfecting everything in sight.

I’ve been giving the kids Little Warrior immunity booster since the start of the school year, and I really thought it was helping at first. The fall felt manageable. But these past couple of months? Not so much.

We are very ready to be done with this sick season. Anything working well in your house? I’ll take all the tips!

The Gist: If you’re planning to vote on Election Day, March 3, Williamson County voters will need to head to their assigned precinct location. During early voting, you can still use any polling place on the county’s list, which makes things a little more flexible. To find your specific Election Day spot, you can check the Texas Secretary of State voter portal using your name and date of birth, or your driver’s license or voter ID number.

If you’re not in Williamson County, registered voters in every Texas county can find their polling locations and voting hours at VoteTexas.gov, the state’s official voter portal.

Why It Matters: Double-checking your polling place ahead of time can save you from last-minute scrambling. A little planning goes a long way on Election Day, so it’s worth taking a minute now to make sure you know exactly where to go.

Click here to find your precinct.

The Gist: The Peached Tortilla in Cedar Park has added “The Backyard,” an outdoor dining area with a kids’ playscape, Adirondack chairs, and picnic tables. Guests can order from a separate menu using QR codes, featuring dishes like the banh mi taco, pesto udon, and kid-friendly options.

Why It Matters: The new outdoor space gives families a relaxed, fresh-air dining option while keeping the same favorite flavors inside. The Backyard is already attracting families who enjoy a meal outside while the kids have fun.

Read more here.

The Gist: The Leander City Council approved 6-1 at their Feb. 19 meeting to apply for recognition as an International Dark Sky Place through DarkSky International. This program honors cities that reduce light pollution and protect clear night skies. Leander already has lighting rules in place, and the designation would highlight these efforts while encouraging mindful outdoor lighting.

Why It Matters: Keeping our skies darker doesn’t just mean better stargazing. It also helps local wildlife and makes evenings feel a little more peaceful. There’s something special about being able to step outside and actually see the stars, and it’s nice to see Leander leaning into that.

Read more here.

Partners in Hope helps isolated neighbors through community support, practical help, and lasting relationships. Volunteers bring hope, connection, and encouragement.

🛠 Community Workdays help with minor home repairs and yard work
🍲 Meal Delivery bring meals and friendly conversation
🤝 Visits & Walking Partners encourage neighbors in person or by phone
🙏 Prayer Team support our ministry through regular prayer

Your time helps neighbors feel seen, supported, and loved.

For more details or to sign up, visit Partners in Hope.

Thirsty Mule Winery & Vineyard recently brought home the championship saddle at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition, the top honor for Texas wineries. Pretty impressive for a Hill Country favorite!

If you haven’t been yet, it’s such an easy, relaxed place to spend an afternoon. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and just all-around welcoming. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful, and on weekends they serve homemade pizzas that pair perfectly with a tasting flight.

You’ll find award-winning wines, craft beers from their on-site brewery, and often live music that makes you want to linger a little longer. The staff is genuinely kind and makes you feel right at home. It’s well worth adding to your weekend plans.

More details here.

Guaco Taco serves fresh, hearty tacos from shrimp and carne asada to chicken quesadillas. Everything is gluten-free, and kids have a play area to enjoy. Drinks like Time Out margaritas and Bloody Marys are a favorite.

The patio is lively, the team keeps things running smoothly, and there’s always something fun happening like karaoke, bingo, or crawfish boils.

More details here.

🦷 WE’RE HIRING: JP Dental Leander

JP Dental is seeking an office manager to handle scheduling, insurance, and front office operations at a new practice. Competitive pay $28–$40/hr. Learn more here.

🛒 WE’RE HIRING: Casey's Liberty Hill

Casey's is seeking a center store manager to lead staff, ensure operational excellence, and deliver exceptional guest experiences. Pay $16–$18.40/hr plus benefits. Learn more here.

👁️ WE’RE HIRING: Hill Country Eye Center Cedar Park

Hill Country Eye Center seeks a full-time medical receptionist to schedule appointments, assist patients, and manage office tasks. Pay $16–$17/hr with benefits. Learn more here.

Need to spread the word about your business or job opening (or really anything else)? Reach thousands of local readers - submit your FREE classified ad here.

Ever thought about advertising with us? Hit reply and tell us about your business!

Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you on Thursday!