🪖Week of May 26, 2025

A Day to Reflect, A Season to Savor: New Flavors, Fresh Pages & Community Vibes All Summer Long

Author

Amber Hill
May 26, 2025

Good Morning, Justin!

Flags are flying, sprinklers are dancing, and summer’s first iced tea has been poured. Remember why the mail’s not running today—it’s Memorial Day, and we’re pausing to honor the heroes.

Pickle ball is breaking ground, library books are calling, and rumor has it there’s a 6’9” server named Herby slinging stories and spice in Argyle.

Let’s make it a week full of sunshine, stories, and small-town magic. You’ve got this, Justin!

THE DIGEST
A Day to Reflect: Memorial Day in Our Community

American Flags on 156

In our small but proud town of Justin, Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start to summer—it’s a time to come together as a community and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Yes, there will be cookouts and gatherings, and maybe a trip to the lake—but let’s not lose sight of the deeper meaning behind this day. Flags will fly at half-staff, city offices will be closed, mail won’t be delivered, and even Costco takes a pause—all in quiet tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

As you drive through town, you’ll see flags lining FM 156, Timberbrook, Bishop Park, Reatta Ridge, and City Hall—simple, powerful reminders that freedom has a cost, and heroes walk among us in memory.

So as we fire up the grill or enjoy time with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect. In a town like ours, where neighbors look out for one another, remembering those who served is something we hold close to the heart.

See our Facebook page for additional photos.

LOCAL BUSINESS

Cactus Canyon

Cactus Canyon – Experience Elevated Flavors in an Inspired Space 

Just down the road in neighboring Argyle, Cactus Canyon brings a fresh, elevated take on Tex-Mex—where updated classics meet bold, modern flavors in a setting inspired by the relaxed elegance of the Mayan Riviera. As part of the Marty B’s family, it’s where great food and unforgettable hospitality come together.

During our visit, we were fortunate to meet Herby—a towering presence at 6'9" and someone whose kindness and resilience leave a lasting impression. He shared a glimpse into the challenges he and his father faced after leaving El Salvador, a story marked by strength and perseverance. If you happen to meet Herby while you're there, be sure to tell him The Justin Journal (The Hills) sent you—he’ll know exactly what you mean.

And don’t miss his drink recommendation: the Peaches and Heat Mas Tragos—a cocktail with just the right balance of sweet and spice, much like the experience itself.

 Visit Cactus Canyon:
700 FM 407 West, Argyle, TX 76226

Hours:
Mon: Closed
Tues–Thurs: 4–10 PM
Fri–Sat: 3–11 PM
Sun: 3–9 PM

Tip: Join the wait list to save time when visiting. We’ve been told the wait times can get a little lengthy especially on the weekend.

Coming Soon: Justin Sports Arena – A New Hub for Pickle ball & Community Play

The team behind Justin Sports Arena, a new indoor sports facility under development on Sam Reynolds Road in Justin, is made up of three local partners—Bala, Sreeharsha, and Sandeep—who share a passion for community, fitness, and growing sports like pickle ball and badminton.

While they are still finalizing permits and navigating some early weather delays, ground was officially broken the week of May 20, marking an exciting step forward in bringing this project to life. Their general contractor and the team will be sharing more construction updates and future plans in the coming weeks.

The arena is set to feature 10 indoor pickle ball courts with professional-grade flooring, along with flexible space that can also be used for badminton. Additional amenities under consideration include a kids’ zone, food truck area, and potential future expansion to accommodate basketball or volleyball.

Scheduled to open this fall, Justin Sports Arena aims to be a go-to destination for fitness, fun, and friendly competition—welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.

Kahwa Joins the Rhythm of Pianotown

We’re thrilled that Kahwa in Fort Worth, sister café to Kahwa in Justin, is an official stop on the Passport to Pianotown for the Seventeenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition!

From May 21–June 7, 28 world-class pianists will compete in Fort Worth in what’s known as the Olympics of classical music—with a $2 million prize package and global spotlight.

Stop by Kahwa Fort Worth for an exclusive offer as you enjoy the music, explore the city, and celebrate this iconic event!

No sponsorships here—just sharing local growth and business updates for your awareness!

EVENTS

đź“…Monday~ May 26

Memorial Day

đź“…Tuesday~ May 27

  • When: 10AM-6PM

  • Where: University of North Texas Coliseum

đź“…Friday~ May 30

  • When: 10AM-2PM

  • Where: City Hall Park

Free Music Friday~ JR McNutt

  • When: 9-11PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

đź“…Saturday~ May 31

  • When: 10AM

  • Where: Sam Reynolds and Cindy lane. Enter off Hwy 156 or 407

  • When: 7-10PM

  • Where: 3 Wide Brewing

  • When: 9-11:45PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

See previous newsletter for ongoing events that occur weekly
đź“…Upcoming Events (see our online calendar)
June 2-12~ Camp Invention NISD
June 19~ Juneteenth Holiday
July 4~ Independence Day Holiday
Oct 25~ Cruisin in Justin

LOCAL HISTORY
Justin, Texas:
A Small Town with a Big Legacy of Service

This Memorial Day, as we pause to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of Americans, we turned our attention to the town of Justin, Texas—a small community with a deep and proud history of service to our country.

While looking into what Justin has given to the nation, we found numbers that spoke volumes, even if the names were harder to trace. It's a reminder that behind every number is a story, a family, and a future given in service to something greater than themselves.

In World War I, more than 150 young people from Justin went off to war. Two of them never came home.

By World War II, the town’s contribution had grown. An astounding 250 individuals from the community served, with five losing their lives on the battlefields of Europe. While records exist for those lost from Denton County, we weren’t able to find documentation specific to Justin. Still, we know they were among the brave, and their sacrifice is felt in the fabric of this community.

During the Vietnam War, several residents of Justin served their country. Among them was Mr. A.T. Howell, who died on July 7, 1966. Little is known about the circumstances of his passing, but his sacrifice is no less honored.

These are the names we could find, but we’re certain there are many more—unlisted, undocumented, but not forgotten.

On this Memorial Day, we honor all those from Justin, named and unnamed, who gave their lives in service. Your sacrifice echoes through the generations. And in the heart of this small Texas town, you are remembered.

KIDS CORNER
Sunshine & Stories: 2025 Summer Reading Program

Keep young minds sharp this summer!
Reading regularly helps prevent the “summer slide”—the learning loss that can happen when school’s out. Thankfully, there are plenty of free, fun activities to keep kids engaged, learning, and entertained all summer long!

Color Our World | June 1–July 31~ Mary Emma Tate Community Library

Kickoff Party~ Friday, May 30, 10 AM–2 PM @ City Hall Park
Pony rides, petting zoo, balloon art & more!

đź“– More Summer Reading Programs & Resources

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