Rowlett Roundup-Issue No. 13

February 20, 2025

Hello Rowlett! ๐Ÿš‚๐ŸŒŸ

Welcome to Issue No. 13 of the Rowlett Roundup! This week, we're taking a moment to appreciate Rowlettโ€™s rich history, from its early days as a railroad town to its transformation into a thriving suburban community.

Rowlett has come a long way from its early days as a quiet rural settlement to the lively community we know today. Once a small town nestled along Rowlett Creek, it flourished with the arrival of the Katy Railroad in 1886, connecting it to new opportunities and growth. Today, while you can still find nods to its past in historic downtown, Rowlett is a city on the moveโ€”expanding, innovating, and bringing people together through exciting events, community initiatives, and local developments.

In this issue, weโ€™ve got:
โœ” Upcoming city meetings to keep you informed about Rowlettโ€™s growth
โœ” Fun events for all ages, from Storytime and STEAM activities to English language socials
โœ” A spotlight on our parks & trailsโ€”perfect for a weekend adventure!

So grab your coffee โ˜•, settle in, and letโ€™s dive into this weekโ€™s Rowlett happenings! ๐ŸŽ‰

โ“๏ธ DID YOU KNOW

One interesting historical fact about Rowlett, TX, is its deep connection to the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (also known as the "Katy Railroad"). The town was originally settled in the 1850s, but it wasnโ€™t until 1886, when the railroad was built through the area, that Rowlett began to grow significantly. The town's location along the rail line made it an important hub for transporting goods and agricultural products, spurring economic development.

Rowlett was named after Rowlett Creek, which itself was named after Daniel Rowlett, a Kentucky native who played a role in early Texas politics. The city remained a small rural community for much of its history until the completion of Lake Ray Hubbard in the 1970s, which transformed it into a thriving suburban area with a strong community identity.

Today, remnants of Rowlettโ€™s railroad past can still be seen in its historic downtown area, and the city continues to embrace its history while growing as a vibrant and modern suburb of Dallas.

๐Ÿ˜Ž WHATโ€™S HAPPENING

Community Development Meeting

๐Ÿ“… Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
โฐ Time: 4:00 PM โ€“ 5:30 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Community Development, 5702 Rowlett Road, Rowlett, TX 75089

Join the Community Development Meeting to stay informed about upcoming projects, zoning updates, and development initiatives shaping the future of Rowlett. This is a great opportunity to learn about city planning efforts and provide input on community growth and improvements.

Storytime: Now You See Me, Now You Donโ€™t

๐Ÿ“… Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
โฐ Time: 10:00 AM โ€“ 10:30 AM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Bring your toddlers and preschoolers (ages 0 to 4) to Storytime, a fun and interactive session filled with engaging stories, action rhymes, and book recommendations! This weekโ€™s theme, Now You See Me, Now You Donโ€™t, will keep little ones entertained while encouraging early literacy skills.

๐ŸŒŸ Upcoming Themes:

  • 5 & 6: Paper! Snow! A Ghost

  • 12 & 13: I Know You Are, But What Am I?

  • 19 & 20: Now You See Me, Now You Donโ€™t

  • 26 & 27: Enchanted

๐Ÿ“Œ Due to limited space, tickets are required and can be collected at the reference desk on the day of the program.

Storytime

๐Ÿ“… Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
โฐ Time: 11:00 AM โ€“ 11:30 AM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

English Language Social Hour

๐Ÿ“… Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
โฐ Time: 4:00 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Looking to practice your English-speaking skills in a friendly and welcoming environment? Join the English Language Social Hour to improve vocabulary, share stories, and meet new friends. This session is open to non-native speakers of all ages and provides a comfortable space to build confidence in speaking English.

๐Ÿ“Œ Library Hours:
๐Ÿ•˜ Monday โ€“ Thursday: 9:30 AM โ€“ 8:30 PM
๐Ÿ•˜ Friday โ€“ Saturday: 9:30 AM โ€“ 5:30 PM
โ›” Sunday: Closed

Come connect, learn, and grow at the Rowlett Public Library!

Yak 'n Yarn: Crochet Club ๐Ÿงถ

๐Ÿ“… Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
โฐ Time: 11:00 AM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Calling all crochet lovers! ๐Ÿงถ Join Yak 'n Yarn: Crochet Club, a friendly and inclusive gathering open to all skill levels. Whether you're just learning the basics or an experienced crafter looking to refine your techniques, this is the perfect place to connect, share tips, and get creative with fellow yarn enthusiasts.

Bring your own materials or just stop by to learn, chat, and create in a relaxed and welcoming environment!

Medicare 101: Understanding Your Options

๐Ÿ“… Date: Monday, February 24, 2025
โฐ Time: 5:30 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Confused about Medicare enrollment, coverage options, and prescription savings? Join Medicare 101, a free educational session led by Rhonda Shirley, an independent Medicare educator.

๐Ÿ“Œ Topics Covered:
โœ… How to sign up for Medicare
โœ… Understanding Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
โœ… How to submit claims efficiently
โœ… Tips for saving on prescription drugs

Whether you're approaching eligibility or assisting a loved one, this session will provide valuable insights and guidance to help you make informed decisions. Don't miss out!

Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting

๐Ÿ“… Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
โฐ Time: 7:00 PM โ€“ 9:00 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: City Hall, 4000 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“‘ Download Agenda

Stay informed about Rowlettโ€™s growth and development by attending the Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting. Topics include zoning changes, land use planning, and future development projects in the city. This is a great opportunity to learn about upcoming changes and share your input on Rowlettโ€™s future.

Storytime: Enchanted โœจ

๐Ÿ“… Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
โฐ Time: 10:00 AM โ€“ 10:30 AM & 11:00 AM โ€“ 11:30 AM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Step into a magical world at Storytime: Enchanted! This special 30-minute session is designed for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 0 to 4) and features captivating stories, interactive action rhymes, and engaging book recommendations to spark young imaginations.

Elementals: Gotta Catch 'Em All! ๐ŸŽฎ๐Ÿงช

๐Ÿ“… Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
โฐ Time: 4:00 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Kids ages 5 to 8 are invited to Elementals, a fun and interactive STEAM-based program that sparks creativity and learning! This weekโ€™s theme, Gotta Catch 'Em All, is inspired by the world of Pokรฉmon and will feature exciting activities combining science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

๐ŸŒŸ Upcoming Themes:

  • 5th: Chopstick Challenges

  • 12th: Galaxy Explorers

  • 19th: Whale Tales

  • 26th: Gotta Catch 'Em All

Join us for an afternoon of hands-on fun and innovation at the Rowlett Public Library!

STEAM Squad: Miniature Landscapes ๐ŸŒฟ๐ŸŽจ

๐Ÿ“… Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
โฐ Time: 6:00 PM
๐Ÿ“ Location: Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088
๐Ÿ“ž Contact: (972) 412-6161
๐Ÿ“ง Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ’ต Cost: Free
๐Ÿ”— Learn More: Rowlett.com/library
โ™ฟ ADA Accessible: Yes

Calling all young creators! STEAM Squad is a hands-on program designed for kids ages 9 to 13 to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math in fun and creative ways.

๐ŸŒฟ This Weekโ€™s Theme: Miniature Landscapes
Unleash your creativity as you design and build stunning miniature landscapes using flowers, foliage, and natural materials. Learn about the principles of design and composition while crafting your own unique masterpiece!

Join us for an evening of art, nature, and STEAM exploration!

SPORTS

๐Ÿ† Sports Schedule

๐Ÿ“… For a full list of GISD sports events happening from February 20th to February 27th, check out the schedule here by adding dates: GISD Athletics Calendar 

๐Ÿ†โšฝ๐Ÿ€ ๐Ÿ“ข Don't miss these exciting games and support your Rowlett athletes!

Healthy & Active Kids: Building Strong Minds & Bodies ๐ŸŒŸ

Helping kids stay active and engaged from an early age is essential for both their physical health and mental well-being. Movement fuels energy, confidence, and social skills, while interactive activities promote creativity, learning, and emotional growth. Rowlett offers a variety of fun and enriching programs designed to keep kids moving, thinking, and connecting with others.

๐Ÿ“Œ Explore activities that set the foundation for a lifetime of wellness! Register here!

Senior Fitness ๐Ÿ‹๏ธโ€โ™‚๏ธ

  • Aerobic Drumming โ€“ Monday/Wednesday | 8:00 AM

  • Yoga Stretch โ€“ Monday/Friday | 9:30 AM

  • Tap Dance โ€“ Monday | 12:00 PM

  • PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise) โ€“ Wednesday/Friday | 9:30 AM

  • Fitness Fun โ€“ Tuesday/Thursday | 9:30 AM

  • SAIL (Stay Active In Life) โ€“ Monday/Wednesday/Friday | 11:00 AM

  • Weekday Walking Club (Meet at the Trail at Pecan Grove Park behind RCC) โ€“ Monday โ€“ Friday | 7:30 AM

Weekly Senior Programs ๐ŸŽฒ

  • Bingo โ€“ Tuesday | 8:45 AM

  • Texas Hold โ€˜Em โ€“ Wednesday/Friday | 11:00 AM

  • Table Games โ€“ Monday/Wednesday/Friday | 11:00 AM

  • Chair Volleyball โ€“ Tuesday & Thursday | 11:00 AM

  • Bridge โ€“ Thursday | 10:00 AM

  • Knit-Witz Knitting & Crochet โ€“ Monday | 6:00 PM

Monthly Senior Programs ๐Ÿ—“๏ธ

  • Senior Health Check โ€“ 4th Thursday | 8:30 AM โ€“ 9:30 AM

  • Birthday Luncheon โ€“ 1st Wednesday | 12:00 PM

  • Out to Lunch Bunch (Meet at Lunch Site) โ€“ 4th Tuesday | 12:00 PM

  • Lake Ray Hubbard Wood Carvers โ€“ Last Saturday | 9:00 AM

  • Artists โ€˜Round Texas โ€“ 3rd Sunday | 2:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM

  • BUNCO โ€“ 3rd Wednesday | 1:00 PM

  • Bowling Bunch (Meet at Bowlarama) โ€“ 3rd Thursday | 12:00 PM

  • Breakfast Bunch โ€“ 4th Thursday | 9:00 AM

  • Canasta โ€“ 2nd & 4th Thursday | 6:00 PM

  • Savvy Seniors โ€“ 3rd Friday | 11:00 AM

Join the fun, meet new friends, and stay active with Rowlett's vibrant senior community!

Explore Rowlettโ€™s Parks & Trails ๐ŸŒณ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™‚๏ธ

The City of Rowlett is home to over 600 acres of parkland, offering something for everyone! Whether youโ€™re looking for a scenic trail, a fun playground, or a place to enjoy sports and recreation, Rowlettโ€™s parks are your go-to destination for outdoor fun.

๐Ÿž๏ธ Rowlettโ€™s Developed Parks

Enjoy a variety of activities including:
โœ”๏ธ Walking & Biking Trails ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿšด
โœ”๏ธ Fishing & Boating Access ๐ŸŽฃ๐Ÿšค
โœ”๏ธ Picnic Areas & Playgrounds ๐Ÿงบ๐ŸŽ 
โœ”๏ธ Tennis, Disc Golf, & In-Line Hockey ๐ŸŽพ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿ’
โœ”๏ธ Sports Fields & Open Spaces โšฝ๐Ÿ€๐Ÿˆ

๐ŸŒณ Highlighted Parks:
๐Ÿ“ Rowlett Community Park โ€“ Sports fields, trails, and open spaces (8700 St. Andrews Ln)
๐Ÿ“ Pecan Grove Park โ€“ Beautiful green space & walking paths (5300 Main St)
๐Ÿ“ Herfurth Park โ€“ Historic park with playgrounds and open areas (4601 Centennial Dr)
๐Ÿ“ Springfield Park โ€“ Ideal for nature lovers & joggers (5501 Antioch Dr)
๐Ÿ“ Veterans Memorial Park โ€“ Dedicated space to honor veterans (3850 Main St)

Download the Rowlett Park Locations Map to find a park near you!

Enjoy Rowlettโ€™s beautiful outdoor spaces and make the most of what our parks and trails have to offer! ๐ŸŒฒ๐ŸŒž

Be Part of the Solution: Get Involved in Rowlett! ๐Ÿš€

We can all complain about issues in Rowlettโ€”or we can step up and be part of the solution. This is your town, and your voice matters! Whether itโ€™s attending city meetings, supporting local businesses, volunteering, or simply staying engaged with community events, your involvement helps shape the future of Rowlett.

๐Ÿ“ข Ways to Make a Difference:
โœ… Attend City Meetings โ€“ Stay informed and share your input
โœ… Support Local Initiatives โ€“ Volunteer for community projects
โœ… Shop & Dine Local โ€“ Help Rowlett businesses thrive
โœ… Join a Neighborhood Group โ€“ Strengthen connections and address concerns together

๐Ÿ“ฉ Email: [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ฒ Facebook: Rowlett Roundup Facebook Page

๐Ÿ’™ Letโ€™s build a stronger, more connected Rowlettโ€”one subscriber at a time!

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