🍛 New in town: bold curries, chill taps, & one perfect patio

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We’re almost embarrassed to admit it… we live so close but have never been to Waco. That changes this weekend! TJ’s alma mater, Arizona State, is playing Baylor, and he’s stoked to cheer on his team. Meanwhile, I’m equally excited to finally explore Magnolia Market! 🛍️

Since it’s our first trip there, we don’t want to miss any hidden gems. Have a favorite Waco spot, whether food, fun, or family-friendly? Hit reply and send us your recommendations so we don’t miss out! 🌟

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Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

The Gist: Google Fiber kicked off construction in Cedar Park on Sept. 13 with a ceremonial groundbreaking at Aster Street and Pecan Wood Drive. The service will bring 8-gigabit speeds with no data caps, equipment fees, or annual contracts.

Why It Matters: Cedar Park residents and businesses will soon gain a faster, more competitive internet option, expanding connectivity across the community. Sounds like a big win to me!

Read more here.

The Gist: Governor Greg Abbott visited Leander on Sept. 17 to present relief checks to families whose homes were damaged or destroyed in the July 4 floods. The funds come from the “Strait to the Heart” benefit concert hosted by George Strait and Tom Cusick, which raised more than $6 million statewide.

Why It Matters: For local families, this help is not just dollars and cents. It is a boost of hope, a step toward rebuilding, and a reminder that neighbors near and far are standing with our community.

Read more here.

The Gist: One lucky Cedar Park resident just scratched “become millionaire” off their to-do list with a $1 million Powerball win from the Sept. 6 drawing! The Quick Pick ticket, purchased at the 7-Eleven on Lake Creek Parkway in Austin, hit all five white ball numbers but missed the red Powerball. The winner is staying anonymous (we’d probably keep quiet too!).

Why It Matters: Somebody in our backyard just became a millionaire overnight, and the golden ticket came from a corner store many of us drive past every week. Proof that your next Slurpee run could change your life!

Read more here.

Heroes Resource Center supports veterans, service members, and their families through connection, care, and community. They could use a few extra hands.

🎉 Volunteer at events like BBQs, peer dinners, and holiday gatherings
🧹 Pitch in at the center with office or facility tasks
💬 Share your skills to support veteran-focused programs
📋 Join a board or committee and help shape what's next
📞 Assist with outreach to connect veterans to resources

💛 Every small effort makes a big impact!

For more details CLICK HERE.

Big news for Leander: Veranda Bar and Restaurant had its soft opening earlier this week, and today, Sept. 18, is the official grand opening! They’re bringing authentic Indian cuisine to the neighborhood with rich curries, fresh naan, tandoori favorites, and plenty of vegetarian options.

The team behind Veranda says they want it to feel like a place to gather with friends, share good food, and enjoy the flavors of India without leaving town. We’re excited to welcome them to the community and even more excited to grab a seat at the table!

More details here.

Opening Sept. 26 in The Railyard, The All Good is set to be Cedar Park’s new laid-back hangout. Think 20+ beers and wine on tap, big screens for the game, and a spacious turfed patio perfect for kicking back with friends.

JABS Smash Burger Truck will be parked on-site to handle those game-day cravings. Adult-focused but family-friendly, this come-as-you-are neighborhood bar is all about cold drafts, good company, and easygoing vibes.

More details here.

🍎 WE’RE HIRING: Leander ISD

LISD seeks a special education teacher to support students with visual impairments. Teacher salary scale + $2,700 stipend and $1,000 sign-on bonus. Learn more here.

👩‍🏫 WE’RE HIRING: Kids R Kids Liberty Hill

Kids R Kids seeks an Assistant Director to support daily operations, mentor staff, and ensure curriculum and licensing compliance. Full-time role with health, dental, PTO, and growth opportunities. Learn more here.

🛒 WE’RE HIRING: QuikTrip Leander

QuikTrip seeks a part-time store clerk to provide customer service, assist with merchandising, and maintain store standards. Must be 16 or older. Competitive pay and benefits offered. 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.

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Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you next week!