Good Morning, Justin and Neighbors!

We’re heading into another week of true Texas summer heat, with temps climbing into the 90s—just as expected! We hope you’re enjoying the sunshine and making the most of time with family and friends this season.

We wanted to share a quick note that we’ll have limited access to social media and email over the next couple of weeks as we take a little breather from the grid. Don’t worry though—your next two Monday newsletters are already scheduled, and a few social posts are lined up as well.

If you notice a slower response than usual, that’s why. And as always, please double-check event details before heading out, since things can sometimes change.

Wishing you a great week ahead and plenty of sunshine!

THE DIGEST

Looking for a free way to stay entertained and keep learning this summer? Libraries in Justin, Denton, Roanoke, Krum, Southlake, Argyle, Haslet, Ponder, and Northlake are offering summer reading programs for kids, teens, and adults through late May and early August.

What You'll Find

Justin's Mary Emma Tate Community Library

The local library's Summer Reading Program includes a kickoff celebration, reading challenges for all ages, prizes, and fun activities throughout the summer.

Don't Forget TexShare

Your library card can unlock access to nearly 500 participating libraries across Texas through the TexShare Card program, giving you even more books and resources to explore.

Why Participate?

Summer reading programs help prevent learning loss, encourage reading habits, provide free activities, and offer a great way for families to spend time together.

Stop by your local library to get a free library card and start your summer reading adventure!

DO SOME GOOD JUSTIN

From helping feed local families to donating clothing, there are countless ways to make a difference right here in Justin and the surrounding communities.

Community Clothes Closet continues serving local families through free clothing assistance and is always accepting donations of gently used clothing, shoes, purses, toys, and books. Community members can also “Sponsor a Family” for $93, helping provide clothing for a family of five for an entire year.

Justin Community Food Pantry helps provide food assistance to families needing a hand up, while organizations like Community Storehouse and The Storehouse Community Center offer everything from pantry support and household essentials to tutoring and workforce development programs.

Local residents can also support NISD families by donating gently used coats, sweaters, boots, and maternity clothing to Pat Swap and Shop during school hours.

The heat is here in North Texas, and late May is the perfect time to find a nearby spot to cool off. From quick splash pads to easy lake escapes, here are some simple go-to options around Justin.

Splash Pads (Quick & Free)

Monday~ June 8

Tuesday~ June 9

Wednesday~ June 10

Thursday~ June 11

Friday~ June 12

Saturday~ June 13

Sunday~ June 14

Last month, we shared the story of the original settlers just north of our area—the Icarians from France. In 1848, they established a socialist utopian community along Oliver Creek. The settlement lasted only about a year before its residents dispersed, and familiar names such as Hardeman, Harmonson, and Allen began appearing in the area’s history.

One of the most fascinating remnants the Icarians left behind was a bell located near the banks of Denton and Oliver Creeks. The bell was used to gather townspeople for meetings and to announce potential dangers to the community.

When the Icarians moved on, the bell remained behind. Early Justin settlers retrieved it from the banks of Oliver Creek and mounted it on a crossbeam between two poles at Old Pennington College. According to local stories, the bell was placed near the headmaster’s residence and was used to signal the start of another day of learning.

In 1913, the city opened a new three-story red brick school building on the west side of town, leaving Pennington College no longer in use. The property was later purchased by the local Baptist congregation, and the bell was moved behind the church, where it remained for many years.

But the story of the Icarian Bell doesn’t end there. Join us next week as we continue the remarkable journey of one of Justin’s most enduring pieces of history.

Adapted from The Justin Story by Grace Parr.