It’s Thursday in the South 817.
There’s a lot going on this weekend, so we won’t take up too much of your time. From city updates to a few stories you might have missed, plus a stacked list events happening across the area, we’ve got you covered.
Be sure to scroll right to the end for the full list, as you’ll definitely find something worth adding to your plans.
So let’s jump right in and catch you up on everything happening around the city.
Remember to share with two (or more) of your friends. The South 817 Pulse is always fun, fast, friendly, and FREE.
Thanks in advance. Let’s get started.
In today’s edition:
Big Fixes, Small Hikes: Inside Burleson’s New Budget
Game On: Dill Dinkers Brings Indoor Pickleball to Crowley
Fuego Tortilla Grill Brings the Heat, and Its First DFW Location, to Burleson
Helping Hands, Hopeful Hearts: Inside Crowley House of Hope
Upcoming Events Around South 817
Thanks,
Jeff
Pulse Points - Local News For You
Burleson Approves FY 2025-2026 Budget with Eyes on Streets, Safety & Smart Growth
In September 2025, the Burleson City Council officially adopted its Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget, creating a financial roadmap grounded in community priorities and thoughtful fiscal management.
What Changed — What’s New
Street Maintenance Gets Its Own Line
Burleson residents ranked roads and traffic control among the top city priorities. In response, the budget carves out $0.0302 per $100 of assessed value specifically for street maintenance.Overall Property Tax Rate Set
The new total city tax rate is $0.7218 per $100 of assessed valuation, divided into:$0.4631 for Maintenance & Operations
$0.2285 for Debt Service
$0.0302 dedicated to Streets
Impact on the Average Homeowner
For a typical Burleson home valued at ~$300,210 (with homestead exemption), the updated rate means about $179.56 more per year — roughly $14.96 per month.
Leaner but Stronger: Saving While Investing
The city trimmed over $2 million from the General Fund through targeted reductions, salary savings, and more efficient adjustments, allowing Burleson to stretch resources further.
Even with cuts, the budget keeps momentum in key areas, making strategic investments in public safety, infrastructure, and parks.
Growing the Team Where It Counts
To keep up with demands and ensure safety, the new budget adds staff in critical roles:
3 paramedics (funded via the Medical Transport Fund)
1 new police officer
1 arson investigator / fire inspector
Funding for the police and fire roles will come from general revenue.
Additional roles tied to parks, recreation, and the Hidden Creek Golf Course will be supported via 4B sales tax revenues—not from property tax increases.
Modest Rate Hikes to Sustain Services
To maintain and also expand city services and infrastructure, the plan includes small utility and collection rate increases:
Water & Sewer rates: +5% (reflecting rising costs from Fort Worth and infrastructure needs)
Solid Waste: Residential collection up $0.88/month; commercial service fees also increase modestly
What This Means for Burleson
This budget strikes a balance between meeting resident expectations and keeping the city’s finances healthy. By dedicating tax dollars to roads, investing in public safety, and trimming inefficiencies, Burleson is positioning itself for smarter growth.
For residents, it means:
Better maintained streets
Continued public safety improvements
Predictable but modest cost increases
A city government that listens to what matters most
As Burleson moves into FY 2026, this plan underscores that good governance isn’t just about numbers — it’s about aligning city resources with what people care about most.
Biz Buzz
Crowley Serves Up Pickleball Fun Year-Round at New Dill Dinkers Indoor Club
Serving Up Fun in Crowley: Indoors and Year-Round
Crowley recently leveled up its recreation scene: Dill Dinkers, a premier indoor pickleball club, has opened its doors at 320 E. Main Street in downtown Crowley.
What’s Inside the Club
Eight indoor courts, including six regulation courts, one championship court, and a “skinny” court — all in a climate-controlled, fenced environment.
Event and private spaces: The facility includes an event area for up to 60 people, and a more intimate space for up to 20.
Ball machine access, pro shop, seamless check-in, and court-reservation features via the Dill Dinkers app.
Clinics, lessons, leagues: Dill Dinkers isn’t just about open play — they offer a full slate of learning options from beginner to advanced.
Why It Matters for Crowley
All-season play: Because the courts are indoors and climate-controlled, players don’t have to wait for perfect weather. Rain, heat, or chill — the game goes on.
Growing the local sports ecosystem: This adds diversity to local recreation options and gives Crowley a specialty sports draw.
Community gathering space: Beyond competition, the club becomes a gathering spot — place to meet new people, host events, or try something new.
Boost to downtown: Its downtown location helps bring traffic, visibility, and energy to Crowley’s Main Street corridor.
What’s Next & How to Join
Membership perks: If you play more than an hour per week, membership is the smart move — it unlocks discounted court fees, early booking, and ball machine access for free.
Open to all levels: Whether you’ve never held a paddle or you’re chasing tournament form, Dill Dinkers has programming designed to lift your game.
Say Hola to Hot Tortillas, Big Flavor: Burleson Welcomes Fuego Oct. 14
Your New Taco Obsession Starts in Burleson
The sizzle of fresh tortillas and the buzz of taco talk are headed to to South 817: Fuego Tortilla Grill is officially opening its doors in Burleson on October 14 at 955 N. Burleson Blvd. (former Taco Cabana), marking the first-ever Fuego location in the DFW Metroplex.
Known for its made-from-scratch tortillas, roasted poblano queso, and over-the-top taco creations, Fuego brings a fun, fast-casual twist to classic Tex-Mex. With cult-favorite spots already thriving in Waco, College Station, San Marcos, and San Antonio, Burleson will be the brand’s next flavorful stop, and its North Texas debut.
What to Expect
The menu is anything but ordinary. Think:
Signature tacos and burritos loaded with bold, creative flavors
That famous roasted poblano queso (worth a trip all on its own)
A build-your-own salsa bar to customize your spice level
Friendly, fast service and a vibrant, modern atmosphere
If it’s anything like Fuego’s other locations, late-night hours could be part of the fun — making it a go-to for everything from early lunch runs to midnight cravings.
Why Burleson Should Be Excited
First to DFW: Burleson gets bragging rights as the Metroplex’s inaugural Fuego location.
Fresh flavor, local energy: Every tortilla is handmade, every dish cooked from scratch.
More than tacos: It’s a new local hangout perfect for families, students, and foodies alike.
A Growing Brand
Now part of the Uncommon Brands family, Fuego is expanding across Texas while keeping its signature blend of big portions, big flavor, and hometown charm.
Mark your calendar: October 14 is the tentative opening day. Whether you’re chasing queso dreams or just want to be the first to say you tried it, Fuego Tortilla Grill is about to turn up the heat in Burleson.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Crowley House of Hope
If you’ve ever wondered where neighbors go for help, with food, medical care, or a hand in tough times, Crowley House of Hope is quietly doing the work. For over 30 years, this nonprofit has been a cornerstone of support for local families in Crowley and surrounding zip codes.
What They Do
Crowley House of Hope offers a range of services aimed at helping people stay stable when life gets uncertain. Here are a few:
Food assistance through their pantry, open multiple times each week. No zip code restrictions for food distribution.
A medical clinic for uninsured residents in Crowley and Crowley ISD: adult medicine, pediatric care, women’s health, and lifestyle medicine.
Clothing vouchers via their thrift store; a “diaper bank” for households with young children; and financial help for rent, utilities, or work-wear in qualifying situations.
Help Now: 4th Annual Mayor's Fall Food Drive
The 4th Annual Mayor's Fall Food Drive recently kicked-off, running for the entire month of October. This is an effort supported by Crowley's Mayor, Billy Davis, to fill the shelves of Crowley House of Hope's Food Pantry.
Donations can be dropped off directly at Crowley House of Hope (200 N Magnolia Street) from Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. You can also leave donations at one of the following locations throughout the month:
My Credit Union: 301 E Main Street, Crowley, Texas 76036
City Hall Crowley: 201 E Main Street, Crowley, Texas 76036
Little Tyke Learning Center: 120 Harris Drive, Crowley, Texas 76036
City of Crowley Rec Center: 405 S Oak Street, Crowley, Texas 76036
Additionally, you can find the Crowley House of Hope van at the
City of Crowley Fall Festival to drop off donations.
When: Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Where: Crowley Crossing
Other Special & Seasonal Programs
Beyond the everyday support, Crowley House of Hope runs important seasonal outreach events:
Back to School help: backpacks, school supplies, uniforms for students who qualify.
Share the Love/Holiday programs: offering children special gifts around Christmas, giving families some relief during holiday seasons.
Where & When You Can Get Help
Food Pantry at 216 N. Magnolia Street with hours Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (11 AM–3 PM), plus evening and Saturday options.
Clinic located at 208 N. Magnolia Street, serving those in zip 76036 and the Crowley ISD area.
Thrift Store at 200 N. Magnolia Street, open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 AM to 2 PM. Donations accepted during same hours.
Why It Matters
Crowley House of Hope does more than distribute goods, it preserves dignity. Because people can choose what they need (via vouchers, thrift store options), get good medical care regardless of income, and access help through a crisis, it builds stability in the community. It also leans heavily on volunteers, hundreds of people giving thousands of hours, and on neighborhood generosity in donations and support.
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What’s Going On? Upcoming South 817 Activities
Have an event or activity you want to share? Click reply and share the who, what, when (date & time), where, and details.
Thursday, October 2, 2025
What: Thursday Night Car Meet - Crowley
When: Every Thursday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: 910 S Crowley Rd Crowley, TX 76036, Cousin’s BBQ parking lot
About: All are welcomed! Hot Rods, Classics, Mods, Bikes...lifted, dropped, chopped…whatever you got…Bring it!
Friday, October 3, 2025
Burleson Market is turning into a Halloween Haunt THIS Friday
What: Burleson Farmers Market - Halloween Event
When: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: 141 W. Renfro St, Burleson, TX
About: Bring the whole family for treats, eats and a spooktacular night out!
Costumes encouraged..... will we see you there, or will you be scared?
Saturday, October 4, 2025
What: BTX Brewfest
When: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: 141 W. Renfro St, Burleson, TX
About: Get ready, y’all — BTX Brewfest 2025 is coming in cold with all your favorites:
Ice-cold craft beers, seltzers, and ciders from top regional breweries
Over 40+ local vendors and artisans
Live music to keep the vibes flowing
Exclusive tastings for VIP ticket holders
Merch, food, and more good times than your group chat can handle
General Admission gets you access to the event and all the fun.
Tasting Tickets include samples from every participating brewery until 7 PM.
VIP Tickets come with early entry at 2 PM and extra perks that make it all worth it.
Support local. Sip responsibly. And bring your crew — because beer festivals are better with friends.
Grab your tickets now and come thirsty.
Sunday, October 5, 2025
What: Crowley Main Street Market
When: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: 201 E Main St., Crowley, TX
About: Shop our local businesses for homemade breads, pastries, salsa, jams & jellies, and many handmade goods!
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
What: National Night Out (Crowley)
When: 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: 201 E Main St., Crowley, TX
About: National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work. Spend the evening meeting your local police department and city council! Enjoy free hot dogs (while supplies last), bounce house, face painting, yard games, local informational vendors, and much more.
Thursday, October 9, 2025
What: BTX Night Hikes (Burleson)
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Coyote Loop Trail—704 Elizabeth Dr., Burleson
About: Explore Burleson trails under the stars! Join us for a free night hike to discover the sights and sounds of nature after dark. Don’t forget your flashlight or headlamp!
Saturday, October 11, 2025
What: Burleson Cars and Coffee
When: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Where: Roasted Beeanery, 317 W Hidden Creek Pkwy #101, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Bring your Hotrod, Classic, Muscle Car, Exotic, Truck, 4x4, Jeep, Restomod, Motorcycle, Antique or whatever your proud of. Enjoy some great coffee at the Roasted Beeanery and some great friendship with like-mined gearheads. This is a FREE event. No registration required.
***
What: Alvarado Artisans and Farmers Market
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Pecan Orchard, 101 S. Parkway Dr., Alvarado, TX 76009
About: Come spend your Saturday morning at the Alvarado Artisans and Farmers Market, sponsored by the Alvarado Development Corporation, and peruse local businesses selling fresh fruits and veggies, crafts, dog treats, homemade breads, sweets, baked goods, and artisan crafts galore!
***
What: Burleson Founder’s Day
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Shop our local businesses for homemade breads, pastries, salsa, jams & jellies, and many handmade goods!
***
What: Saddle Up & S'mores (Burleson)
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: A fun evening of instructional country western dancing followed by cozy s’mores by the fire. Perfect for date nights or a fun girls’ night out! Cost is $40 per couple. Spots are limited— don’t miss out on this sweet western night under the stars!
***
What: Burleson Founders Day Car, Truck & Bike Show
When: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: 100 S. Warren Street, Burleson
Monday, October 13, 2025
What: LinkUp Teen Nights at the BRiCk - ages 13-17 (Burleson)
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Burleson Recreation Center
About: Looking for something fun to do on a Monday night? Join us for LinkUp Teen Nights at the BRiCk! October’s theme is Mario Kart Night—a Nintendo Switch tournament where teens ages 13–17 can race for bragging rights. Come hang out, make friends, and enjoy a night just for teens. Fee: $10 per person. Registration Deadline: October 12 at 5 p.m.
Friday, October 17, 2025
What: Kids Night Out - ages 5-11 (Crowley)
When: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Recreation Center, 405 S. Oak Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: Grab your coziest PJs and get ready for an evening of games, crafts, a movie, and tasty treats. Parents, enjoy a night to yourselves while the kids enjoy the ultimate pajama party filled with memories to take home. Pizza, snacks, crafts, games, and a movie are on the lineup for the evening.
Saturday, October 18, 2025
What: Dogs and Donuts – Halloween Edition (Burleson)
When: 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Where: Burleson Bark Park, 616 Memorial Plaza, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Get ready for a HOWL-oween paw-ty! Delicious donuts and apple cider await you and your furry best friend at the Burleson Bark Park! Join us for our Dogs and Donuts Halloween Edition for a morning of spooky fun! Don't forget to dress up your pup in their cutest (or creepiest!) costume for our Halloween costume contest! The cost is free, but registration is required to make sure we have enough treats.
***
What: Fall Fest at the Farm
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Bring the whole family out for a fun-filled day packed with:
Hayrides, Petting Donkeys, Fall Arts & Crafts, Games, Train Rides, and more!
No registration needed — just show up and enjoy! Free event. All ages welcome
***
What: Alvarado Fall Festival & 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race
When: noon-3 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Alvarado Fall Festival & 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race
Join us for a day full of small-town fun, including food trucks, hay attraction, local vendors, and free games & activities for the whole family.
Bring your family, bring your friends, and celebrate fall with your neighbors in the Alvarado community!
And don’t miss the 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race—a crowd favorite!
Register your weenie dog here. Deadline to register is Friday, October 10th.
***
What: City of Joshua Fall on Main
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Downtown Main, Joshua, TX 76058
About: Join us for an evening full of fall fun in the heart of Joshua! This family-friendly event will feature:
-Live Music & Singing Contest – cheer on local talent as they take the stage
-Chili Cook-Off – sample delicious recipes and vote for your favorite-Costume Contest – dress to impress for prizes (kids, adults & pets welcome!)
-Games & Activities – fun for all ages
-Vendors & Food Trucks – shop local and enjoy tasty eats
-And so much more!
Bring your family, your friends, and your best fall spirit for an evening of food, fun, and community right on Main Street
***
What: Crowley Fall Festival - Sponsored by Texas Health Huguley Hospital
When: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Crossing, 201 Main Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: Kids can dress in costumes to enjoy free carnival games, candy, bounce houses, food trucks, Market on Main vendors, and more. Dog costumes, too!
Admission is one canned food or non-perishable food item that will be donated to the Crowley House of Hope.
***
What: Harvest Moon Lantern Festival
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Bailey Lake Park, 280 West Hidden Creek Parkway, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us under the glowing Harvest Moon for a magical lantern festival filled with music, food, and good vibes!
***
What: Crowley FFA Chili Cookoff
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Charles & Jenny Sewell Agriculture Center, 1800 W. Cleburne Crowley Rd, Crowley, TX 76036
About: Join us for the 4th Annual Triple C Chili Cook-Off! Hosted by Crowley FFA Backers
Friday, October 24, 2025
What: Pumpkin Paint Night
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Recreation Center, 405 S. Oak Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: The City of Crowley, along with the Crowley Recreation Center and Library, will be hosting Pumpkin Paint Night at the CRC. Bundle up your family, wear your best costume, and join us for an evening of fun activities.
***
What: Old Town Picture Show
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us at 6 p.m. to watch Hocus Pocus at Old Town Picture Show in the Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza. Bring your own blanket or lawn chair and get ready to enjoy the show! The Old Town Picture Show is a FREE community event that encourages people from all over Tarrant & Johnson Counties to gather here in Old Town and enjoy a family-friendly movie on a giant screen.
Saturday, October 25, 2025
What: Boo Bash Festival (12 years and younger)
When: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Chisenhall Fields, 500 W. Hidden Creek Parkway, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us for a spooktacular evening with your friends and family. Come dressed up in your best costume! Enjoy free candy for children from birth to 12 years old. Children can participate in free games, bounce houses and more. The cost is free, but registration is required to make sure we have enough candy. This year's activities include pumpkin painting, Country Critters petting zoo, bounce houses, and performances. There will also be on-site food trucks with food available for purchase.
***
What: Joshua DQ Trunk or Treat Car, Truck & Bike Show
When: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: 109 N Broadway St, Joshua, TX
About: Bring your rides and join us for a spooky-fun night at DQ!
Trunk-or-Treat for the kids
Bounce House
Kids Costume Contest
Awards: Top 20 Show, Best of Show, Manager’s Pick, & DFW Pick
Dash plaques for the first 20 registered
$20 Entry Fee
Fun for the whole family — come for the cars, stay for the treats!
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
What: Zumba Nights in the Plaza: Thriller Edition
When: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Get ready to move and groove with Claudia Soto at Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza's Zumba Latin Nights! Come dressed in your spookiest Halloween costume on Oct. 29 for a special Latin Thriller Night! There will be a chance to win prizes in our costume contest! See you on the dance floor!
What’d we miss? If you know of an event, or have an event planned, hit reply and let us know so we can include it in the next issue.
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