🍽️ Round Rock’s cozy new spot for cheese bread & more

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A few days back into school, and we’re settling back into the normal swing of things. I’m definitely missing the laid-back mornings and extra family time from break, but there’s also something energizing about starting a fresh year. We’re grateful to be kicking off 2026 surrounded by such great people in this community, and we hope the year is off to a wonderful start for you and your family as well!

The Gist: Round Rock is making progress on new fire stations funded by the 2023 public safety bond. Fire Station 10, a $9.1 million project on Old Settlers Boulevard near Red Bud Lane, reached its highest structural point in November and is expected to open in fall 2026. The city has also filed plans for Fire Station 11, which will include a small police office and is slated for completion by the end of 2027.

Why It Matters: New stations mean faster response times and better coverage as Round Rock continues to grow. It’s reassuring to see long-term safety projects taking shape around town.

The Gist: Hutto police say car and building break-ins dropped sharply in 2025 after officers increased patrols and visibility. From January through October, car break-ins fell 61 percent and building break-ins dropped 55 percent. DWI arrests rose 80 percent as officers focused more on impaired driving. Staffing is improving, with just two open positions.

Why It Matters: These changes show how added patrols are making a difference for safety as Hutto continues to grow. It’s encouraging to see local efforts paying off as the city heads into the new year.

Assistance League of Georgetown Area supports neighbors in need through hands-on programs. Volunteers power every effort.

👕 Help kids thrive support Operation School Bell
🛍 Work the Thrift Shop assist customers and sort items
📚 Support learning help children read and grow
🎉 Share kindness celebrate birthdays at memory care

❤️ Serve your community. Make new friends.

For more details or to sign up, visit Assistance League of Georgetown Area.

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches is officially on the way to Pflugerville, bringing its San Francisco roots and over-the-top sandwiches with it. Known for Dutch crunch bread and its famous Dirty Sauce, Ike’s menu runs wide, with classic meat-filled builds plus vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options.

Construction is expected to wrap up in early 2026, making this a new stop to watch if stacked sandwiches are your thing.

Nikala is a great place to try Georgian food for the first time. The room feels warm and inviting, and the menu is full of comforting dishes meant for sharing.

Khachapuri, the famous cheese-filled bread, is a must, along with juicy khinkali dumplings and grilled meats with smoky flavor. Everything feels hearty and well balanced. It’s an easy spot to settle in, try something new, and leave already planning your next visit.

🥕 WE’RE HIRING: Sprouts Farmers Market Round Rock

Sprouts Farmers Market seeks a produce clerk to stock, rotate, and merchandise fresh produce while assisting customers in a fast-paced store. Learn more here.

🧹 WE’RE HIRING: Healthcare Services Group Hutto

Healthcare Services Group seeks a housekeeper to clean resident rooms and common areas while maintaining sanitation and safety standards. Learn more here.

🚛 WE’RE HIRING: Texas Disposal Systems Georgetown

Texas Disposal Systems seeks a route helper to assist residential drivers, support safe and efficient routes, and deliver courteous service to customers. 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.

Thanks for reading. See you next week!

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