💛 YMCA gets $500K boost + the best local Brazilian comfort food

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Welp, summer is officially over for the Larkin kids. I’m feeling that heavy mix of sadness and quiet. For the first time in weeks the house will be still, and I’m already missing having them close. At the same time, I’m deeply grateful for their amazing schools and teachers, and excited for everything this new year might bring. Moments like this remind me how much we all depend on one another to raise good kids and build strong communities.

One small way we at the Scoop can help our community is by using our voice to connect, support, and lift our neighbors up. If you have something to share, like a garage sale, a babysitter or job search, a handmade product, or even a birthday shoutout, you can post it as a free classified ad in the Scoop.

It’s our digital neighborhood bulletin board, and we’re glad to have this platform to help you spread the word. You can check out this issue’s classifieds at the bottom, ready for you to browse. ❤️

Click HERE to submit your classified ad.

Need A Brake brings the shop to your home or work so you can keep your day moving.

🛠️ Brake jobs, tune-ups, A/C fixes, more
👨‍🔧 Local pros with 10+ years’ experience
💲 Fair prices, zero upsell pressure

Book your mobile repair today. Call or text us at 512-200-CARS, email us at [email protected] or check out our site HERE.

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

The Gist: H-E-B has given $500,000 to support construction of Georgetown’s first full-service YMCA, a 53,000-square-foot facility planned for Williams Drive. Set to break ground later this year and open in late 2026, the center will feature full amenities plus program scholarships to ensure access for all.

Why It Matters: The donation helps bring expanded recreation, wellness, and youth programs to Georgetown, strengthening community access to healthy living.

Read more here.

The Gist: The Texas Senate approved a bill Aug. 6 that would lower the property tax revenue cap for cities and counties with over 75,000 residents, including Round Rock and Georgetown, from 3.5% to 2.5%, requiring voter approval to exceed the limit. SB 9 would not affect new construction and now heads to the House.

Why It Matters: If passed, the bill could slow property tax growth in Round Rock and Georgetown while giving residents more opportunities to vote on proposed increases.

Read more here.

For over 50 years, Meals on Wheels Central Texas has helped older adults and neighbors with disabilities stay nourished, connected, and independent—with help from thousands of local volunteers.

🚗 Deliver meals during weekday lunch hours (just one hour makes a difference)
👜 Drop off HOPE Bags with food and care items
🛒 Shop and deliver groceries to homebound neighbors
📅 Flexible weekday and limited weekend shifts available

✅ Volunteers need a driver’s license, auto insurance, and photo ID
💛 A little kindness behind the wheel goes a long way!

For more details or to sign up, visit Meals on Wheels Central Texas.

If you’ve never had Brazilian comfort food, TorresBee in Round Rock is the place to start. Their coxinha is legendary, crispy on the outside and creamy inside, and the all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch is a local favorite.

From feijoada to fried cheese balls and house made desserts, everything tastes like it was made with heart. With warm service, live music on weekends, and take-home treats, it’s a true hidden gem.

More details here.

This downtown Hutto food truck is packing serious flavor. Hutto Spice Route serves halal-friendly plates featuring shawarma, falafel, and lamb that all impress, but it’s the rice that steals the show.

Fluffy, perfectly spiced, and good enough to eat on its own, the rice is just the start. House-made sauces and fruit custard desserts seal the deal. Portions are generous, the team is warm, and the date nut bar is a must-try before you leave.

More details here.

🏠 WE’RE HIRING: Austin 101 Realty Round Rock

Austin 101 Realty is seeking a Property Assessment Tech to conduct inspections, coordinate vendors, and ensure properties are well-maintained. Full-time with mileage reimbursement, paid time off, and health benefits. Learn more here.

💙 Synergy HomeCare

Compassionate, reliable in-home support with no hourly minimums. From companionship to dementia care, helping loved ones live safely. Call or text (512) 338-4470 or visit synergyhomecare.com.

🐔 WE’RE HIRING: Chick-fil-A Round Rock

Chick-fil-A is seeking Back of House Team Members to prepare food, maintain kitchen standards, and support a positive guest experience. Flexible schedules, competitive pay, scholarships, and growth opportunities. 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 classified ad here.

Thanks for reading. See you next week!

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