December 23, 2024

Smooth Holidays in Justin, Exciting Stars Center in Northlake, and Fun Winter Break Ideas for the Kids!

Author

Amber Hill
December 23, 2024

Good morning, Justin!

As the holiday season is in full swing, we want to take a moment to wish you a very Merry Christmas! May your days be filled with joy, laughter, and precious time with family and friends. Let’s all take a moment to remember the true reason for the season and spread love and kindness to those around us.

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THE DIGEST
Things to Help Make Your Holidays Run a Little Smoother Here in Justin

  • Trash and Recycling Service Delay: Due to the holiday schedule, trash and recycling pickup will be delayed until December 27. Make sure to adjust your plans accordingly!

  • City Hall & Administrative Office Closures: Please note that City Hall and all administrative offices, including the library, will be closed on December 24 & 25 for the holidays.

  • Holiday Hours for Stores and Restaurants: Many stores and restaurants will be closed on Christmas Day and may close early on December 24. Be sure to check hours before heading out to avoid any surprises.

  • Pickup Prescriptions & Over-the-Counter Meds: Pick up any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications you need by this afternoon, December 23. Pharmacies may be closed or have limited hours over the holiday, so make sure you're stocked up to avoid running out.

  • Prepare Early: The holiday rush is here! Be sure to gather all the essentials ahead of time—tape, scissors, wrapping paper, and all the ingredients you'll need for your meals. Don’t forget the batteries for the kiddos' new toys to avoid any last-minute scrambling.

  • Self-Care: The holidays can get hectic, so don’t forget to schedule some downtime for yourself. Whether it’s a cozy movie night or a quiet walk outside, taking a moment to recharge is key to enjoying the season.

This should cover all the essentials to keep the season stress-free!

Just for Fun: This Week’s Crossword Puzzle
Answers will be posted on Facebook and in next week’s newsletter

Week of Dec. 23, 2024 Crossword Puzzle943.96 KB • PDF File

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LOCAL BUSINESS

StarCenter Multisport Northlake: A New Hub for Youth Sports and Community Activities

Located at 4819 TX-114, Northlake near QT and PJ Coffee, The new StarCenter Multisport facility in Northlake, Texas, designed by WRA Architects, will offer a versatile venue for youth sports tournaments and community events. This expansive facility will include up to two ice hockey rinks, eight basketball courts which can be converted into 16 volleyball courts. The layout of the building features a central corridor that divides the ice rink area on one side from the gymnasium and courts on the other. Each side will include essential amenities such as locker rooms, public restrooms, and a large concessions area on the ground floor. The second level will boast expansive observation decks for spectators, along with a sizable weight training room. In collaboration with Lee Lewis Construction, the 230,000 square-foot facility is expected to be completed by late fall of 2025.

Now Hiring!

Looking for a new job with a short commute? Check out these local opportunities:

  • The City of Roanoke: Now hiring public works maintenance worker, recreation aid, finance intern, police records clerk, and more.

  • Outlaw Burger: Now hiring cashiers, servers, and kitchen staff. Join their team for a fun, fast-paced environment!

  • KP Staffing: Hiring warehouse associates for multiple locations in Roanoke. Great chance to join a growing team!

  • Backporch Drafthouse: They're looking for servers to be part of their welcoming team.

Don't miss out on these great local job opportunities—apply today!

Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just fun info we wanted to share.

EVENTS
December Happenings

📅Monday~ Dec. 23

  • When: 9PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

📅Tuesday~ Dec. 24

Justin City Hall Closed

  • When: 4:30-7:30PM

  • Where: Lambeau’s America Kitchen and Taps

📅Wednesday~ Dec. 25

Merry Christmas!

📅Saturday~ Dec. 28

  • When: 6-9PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

See our Hometown calendar for additional events

LOCAL HISTORY
A Look Back at Justin's History

In 2015, the Justin Town Council had an interesting debate—should the year 1887 or 1883 appear under the town's logo? While 1887 is the year Justin officially received its name (on October 4th, Justin Day), the story goes back a bit further. The first store to open in the area, which marked the beginning of what we know today as Old Town Justin, actually opened on Christmas Day in 1883.

John W. Berry, whom we've mentioned before in past stories, opened that very first store, setting the foundation for the bustling community that grew around it.

As Grace Lee Parr wrote in The Justin Story,
"The general store was an institution in rural life. Farmers came into town for supplies and spent some time with neighbors, exchanging news items and expressing opinions on the state of the union. In winter they gathered around a pot-bellied stove to spin yarn and spit tobacco juice. Many a friendly pedal of laughter emanated from the room."

While we've come a long way from that first general store, we’re still the same Justin, a town where neighbors gather to share news, opinions, and, of course, a little bit of laughter!

KIDS CORNER
Winter Break Activity Ideas

Beat the Boredom This Winter Break!

School break is a welcome change of pace, but sometimes boredom can sneak in. Don’t worry, we’ve found a few fun activities in the area to keep everyone entertained:

Winter Art Camps at Bespoke Art Studio
Get creative during the break with art camps at Bespoke Art Studio. It's a great way for kids to explore their artistic side and stay engaged.

Winter Break Camp at DBat
Join DBat for their Winter Break Camp on December 20, 23, 27, 30, and January 2-3 from 9 AM to 3 PM. Perfect for kids who love baseball and want to stay active!

Open Mat Times at Justin Jiu Jitsu
If your kids need to burn off some energy, Justin Jiu Jitsu offers open mat times:

  • December 23: Kids at 3 PM, Adults at 6 PM

  • December 26: 12 PM

  • December 27: Kids at 3 PM, Adults at 6 PM

NISD Winter Camps
Don’t miss out on the NISD Winter Camps, offering fun and educational activities for kids throughout the break.

Indoor Swimming Options
Already missing swimming? Check out these indoor options to stay cool, no matter the weather:

  • Keller Pointe: Enjoy three lap lanes, a kid’s pool, a vortex, a lazy river, and a water slide.

    • Non-resident Youth: $9

    • Adults: $10

  • Flower Mound Community Activity Center: Take a dip in an 83-degree pool with 11 lanes, a splash pad, a 150-foot slide, a diving board, a basketball hoop, and two AquaClimb climbing walls.

    • Daily Fees for Non-residents: $6-$8

    • $5 surcharge to bring in your own cooler with snacks and drinks.

  • The Marq Champions Club in Southlake: This facility offers a toddler play pool with 90-degree water, lap lanes, racing water slides, an activity area, and "the river" for older kids. Adults can also enjoy resistance walking.

These activities will keep everyone entertained and active during the holiday break!