⏰Week of March 10, 2025

Spring Forward with Ponder’s History, March Events, and New Local Finds!

Good morning, Justin!

It’s the final countdown before Spring Break — time to enjoy your coffee while it's still hot, and go into stores and restaurants during the week without the crowds (because that window’s closing)! Also, don’t forget we’re starting off with one less hour of sleep thanks to Daylight Savings. So if you're feeling extra tired, we get it.

And just to keep things interesting, temps are hitting the 80s this week, with plenty of sunshine! Perfect for sunscreen... and sweating in the carpool line. You got this! ☕💤🌞

Happy Monday (sort of...)!

esto" Pavement

THE DIGEST
Historic Preservation Efforts & 2nd Semi-Annual Cruisin' in Justin

Downtown Justin

Historic Preservation Efforts in Old Town

The City Council is taking steps to preserve Old Town's unique character, with updates from Director of Development Services, Matthew Cyr.

  1. Historic Preservation District: The Council has instructed staff to propose a Historic Preservation District to protect the area’s architectural charm and historic features.

  2. Demolition Permit Moratorium: On February 27th, the Council approved a temporary halt on new demolition permits in Old Town to prevent developers from replacing historic homes. If approved on March 27th, the moratorium will remain in effect.

  3. Old Town Phase III Master Plan: On February 27th, the City Council directed staff to begin exploring the development of an Old Town Master Plan, which will include a zoning overlay. This initiative is designed to preserve the area’s historic character and charm by creating clear guidelines for future development. The zoning overlay will help ensure that growth aligns with the existing architectural style and community vision, balancing modernization with the preservation of Old Town’s integrity.

These efforts aim to preserve Old Town’s character while allowing for thoughtful growth.

2nd Semi-Annual Cruisin' in Justin

Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 29th for the 2nd Semi-Annual Cruisin' in Justin event! Join us for a day of fun with:

  • Car Show - $20 for the first car ($10 each additional car; CASH ONLY, DAY OF EVENT).

  • Food Trucks

  • Raffles

  • Poker Run (50/50) along the Kart Cruise ($20; CASH ONLY, DAY OF EVENT).

  • Kart/Trike/Car Cruise with a police escort through the community.

Important:

  • Pre-registration only (QR code to register).

  • DO NOT PAY ANYONE WHO MESSAGES YOU TO REGISTER.

A full schedule will be available soon.

To check out highlights from the September event, be sure to visit our previous post!

LOCAL BUSINESS
Business Spotlight

The Academy: Timberbrook Provided by Matthew Cyr

The Academy: Timberbrook

The new childcare center is making great progress and is set to open in late spring or early summer of 2025! Construction is currently focused on adding the masonry facade to the building, bringing us closer to the grand opening.

We’re also excited to announce their Grand Open House on April 24th from 3-6pm! Join them for an afternoon of fun, featuring:

  • Delicious sweets and Gelato from Santini’s

  • An obstacle bounce house

  • A balloon animal artist

  • A Q&A with their teachers

  • An opportunity to tour the building and learn about their program

Branded Bagels Owners

Branded Bagels: Opening Soon in Northlake, TX!

Branded Bagels is excited to announce their opening on April 2nd in Northlake, TX! They will be serving New York-style bagels, breakfast sandwiches, schmears, spreads, lox, and a variety of lunch bagel sandwiches.

The owners of Branded Bagels are Peter, Christie, Craig, and Andrea. Peter and Christie live in Canyon Falls, while Craig and Andrea call Justin, TX, home, where Craig grew up. They are thrilled to bring their love for authentic NY bagels to Northlake!

Their story, coming soon to www.brandedbagels.com.

Now Hiring in Justin, TX!

Here are some of the exciting job opportunities currently available in Justin, TX:

  1. Northwest ISD
    Northwest ISD has many opportunities for immediate hire as well as positions for next school year. Check out available positions and apply here.

  2. Long Meadow Healthcare
    Long Meadow Healthcare is hiring for several roles, including:

  3. H&R Block
    H&R Block is looking for a CSP/Receptionist. For more details and to apply, visit H&R Block Job Posting.

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

EVENTS
March Happenings

📅Tuesday~ March 11
  • When: 4-7PM

  • Where: Master Made Feed

  • When: 6PM

  • Where: 415 N College Ave

📅Wednesday~ March 12
  • When: 9-11AM

  • Where: Flower Mound Senior Center

  • When: 11:30AM-1PM

  • Where: Higher Grounds

  • When: 7:00 PM

  • Where: Three Wide Brewing 16230 Three Wide Dr

📅Thursday~ March 13
  • When: 6:30PM

  • Where: Hilltop Truck Park

  • When: 10:57PM with the maximum at 1:58AM 3/14

  • Where: The Night Sky

📅Friday~ March 14

Breakfast with the Mayor
Join the mayor for small talk and breakfast every Friday morning.

  • When: 6-8AM

  • Where: Lonesome Spur Cafe 218 S FM 156, Justin

  • When: 6-9PM

  • Where: Hilltop Truck Park

  • When: 9PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

📅Saturday~ March 15
  • When: see website

  • Where: Texas Motor Speedway

  • When: 9-11PM

  • Where: Mule Barn

  • When: 6:30-10PM

  • Where: Hilltop Truck Park

  • When: 8-11PM

  • Where: Three Wide Brewing

📅Upcoming Events (see our online calendar)
March 17~ St. Patrick’s Day
March 17-21~ Spring Break for NISD
March 29~ Justin Car Show and Cruise
April 5: Justin Serve Day/ Spring Clean up
April 12~ Justin Business Association Market Day
April 12-13~ Falcon Ridge Community Garage Sale
April 13-14~ NAS JRB Fort Worth Air Show
April 15~ Tax Day
April 19~ The Justin Community Egg Hunt
April 20~ Easter Sunday
April 24~ The Academy Timberbrook Open House
April 26~ Timberbrook Garage Sale

LOCAL HISTORY
From Tracks to Town: The Story of Ponder's Growth

Just north of the growing town of Justin is the small but steadily expanding town of Ponder. Originally land worked by W.S. Herndon, the area was purchased by the Santa Fe Railroad to lay down tracks as part of their ambitious 1886 project to build 300 miles of track in 300 days. This project helped bring many new towns to life, and Ponder was no exception.

As the railroad brought more settlers to the area, a name began to emerge—Gerald. However, when the residents of the town of Gerald requested a post office in 1898, they were told that the name was already in use. So, the town decided to change its name to Ponder, after a local landowner, W.A. Ponder, on the west side of town. In 1893, the town was granted a post office under the new name. Unfortunately, the post office lasted only 8 months before it was discontinued, and mail was rerouted through Justin. Still, the name "Ponder" stuck.

Today, Ponder is continuing to grow and, in 2023, is home to nearly 2,800 residents.

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