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We got some fantastic Santa pics again this year with the incredibly talented Sarah Saiz, and we’re so grateful we did. She made the whole experience easy, fun, and the photos turned out just beautiful.

Chances are you’ve already wrapped up holiday photos for this season, but definitely keep Sarah in mind for the next time you’ve got a special occasion or want updated family or kid photos. She’s the real deal and so great to work with.

You can check out her website HERE!

If you’re a business owner, real estate pro, investor, or ambitious professional in Williamson County, you should not be flying blind.

WilCo Grind is TJ’s new, 100% free weekly email about:

🏗️ Big projects, new companies, and founder stories happening in Williamson County
💸 Local money moves, deals, and investment ideas
🚀 The best jobs and career plays worth chasing
🤖 Simple AI tips for non-technical people who want an edge
🤝 Business events where you’ll connect with the brightest minds around

It’s about all things business, money & careers for ambitious people here in WilCo, written from TJ’s perspective; value-first, engaging and fun.

👇Subscribe for FREE here

The Gist: Texas families can start applying on Feb. 4, 2026 for the state’s new $1 billion Education Freedom Account (ESA) program, rolling out ahead of the 2026–27 school year. If approved, most students can receive around $10,300 a year to use on things like private school tuition, textbooks, transportation, tutoring, or certain therapies. Homeschool families can receive up to $2,000, and students with disabilities may qualify for as much as $30,000. Priority goes first to students with disabilities and lower income families, and awards are expected to be announced by early May.

Why It Matters: This could be a meaningful boost for families who are considering different education paths for their kids. Public school, private school, homeschool, or a mix of supports, every family’s situation is a little different, and it’s nice to see more options available for those who want them. Applications open early next year, and plenty of parents will be watching closely to see how it rolls out.

Read more here.

The Gist: Cedar Park’s new public library just wrapped up its first full year, and it’s been a big one. Record numbers of visitors, programs that stay packed, meeting rooms that are constantly in use, and more digital resources than ever. It also earned LEED Silver certification, meaning the building was designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Why It Matters: The library has quickly become a favorite community hub for learning, kids’ activities, studying, meetings, and everyday connection. It really feels like the kind of welcoming gathering place Cedar Park needed and had hoped for.

Read more here.

The Gist: A new development called Cedar Tech I and II is underway near Scottsdale Drive in Leander. The project will deliver more than 350,000 square feet of Class AA industrial and flex space. Construction began in the third quarter of 2025 and is expected to wrap in the third quarter of 2026.

Why It Matters: The added space supports business growth as Leander continues to expand. Just another sign of how fast the area’s commercial market is taking off!

Read more here.

Rebuild Sandy Creek supports residents recovering from the July floods. Applications for assistance are open through December 15th.

💵 Donate now to support rebuilding
🎉 Host a fundraiser or community event
🤝 Partner with Rebuild Sandy Creek on projects
📣 Share the info to spread awareness

Your help brings safety and stability to families still recovering.

For more details, visit Rebuild Sandy Creek.

This Christmas tree cinnamon roll pull-apart turns canned cinnamon rolls into a magical, sprinkle-covered holiday centerpiece that’s as cute as it is delicious. It’s super easy to make, and disappears fast once it hits the table!

Get the recipe here.

A meal at Dough it Up feels cozy and personal, and the excitement around this place since their October opening has been easy to understand.

Guests already love the homemade pasta, the big portions, and the kind owners who take time to help with orders. The space is small, so it can get busy, but the food is definitely worth it. Popular picks include the carbonara, chicken pesto, and crisp, flavorful pizzas.

More details here.

If you’re an iced tea person, Leander’s got a new place you’ll want to try. The new HTeaO opened on Dec. 6, and it brings more than twenty flavors to play with, including peach ginger, mint and strawberry passion, plus a secret menu that leans delightfully whimsical.

You can mix your own combo or switch things up with lemonade, hot chocolate or a coffee drink. It’s a fun new stop for an easy pick-me-up!

More details here.

🚚 WE’RE HIRING: Leander Towing

Leander Towing is seeking a tow truck driver to provide safe vehicle transport, complete roadside assistance tasks, and manage calls. Learn more here.

🏗️ WE’RE HIRING: Home Depot Leander

Home Depot seeks freight and receiving associates to unload trucks, stock merchandise, move materials, and support customers with excellent service. Learn more here.

🗂️ WE’RE HIRING: Divine Savior Ministries Liberty Hill

Divine Savior Ministries seeks an executive assistant to support campus leadership with scheduling, communication, document management, and event coordination. Learn more here.

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