Hang in there! The weekend is coming!
Let’s catch you up on everything happening around the area.
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In today’s edition:
Stay Informed: Burleson Launches BTX Alert Emergency Notification System
Fall Fun Takes Over Main Street at Crowley’s Annual Fall Festival
Small Batch, Big Flavor: Luxe Cookie Co. Sweetens Burleson Life
Joshua’s OpenDoor FoodBank shows how small acts make a big impact.
Upcoming Events Around South 817
Thanks,
Jeff
Pulse Points - Local News For You
Stay Informed, Stay Safe: Burleson’s BTX Alert Keeps Residents Connected in Emergencies
From Storms to Street Closures ,BTX Alert Puts Burleson Info in Your Hands.
When emergencies happen, every second counts. And getting the right information fast can make all the difference. That’s why the City of Burleson is urging residents to sign up for BTX Alert, the city’s official emergency notification system designed to keep the community informed, safe, and connected.
What Is BTX Alert?
BTX Alert is a free, customizable notification service that delivers real-time updates directly to your phone, email, or text message. From severe weather alerts to public safety notices and road closures, the system ensures you receive verified, up-to-date information straight from Burleson emergency management officials.
Whether it’s a tornado warning, missing person alert, major traffic disruption, or citywide safety update, BTX Alert keeps residents aware and ready to act, wherever they are.
How It Works
Signing up takes just a few minutes. Residents can:
Choose how they want to receive alerts: by text, email, or voice call
Select which types of notifications to receive (like weather, safety, or city updates)
Update their preferences anytime through the secure BTX Alert portal
Once registered, you’ll automatically receive critical notifications tailored to your address or location within the Burleson city limits.
Why It Matters
Emergencies rarely come with warnings, but information saves lives. BTX Alert empowers residents to make quick, informed decisions when it matters most. It’s also a vital tool for staying connected during unpredictable Texas weather or unexpected citywide events.
As Burleson continues to grow, so does the need for clear, reliable communication between residents and first responders. BTX Alert bridges that gap — keeping families, schools, and businesses safer, together.
A Word from the City
City officials encourage all residents to register, emphasizing that the best time to prepare is before an emergency begins. With BTX Alert, you’re not just signing up for messages — you’re joining a citywide safety network that protects everyone.
Ready to Get Started?
It only takes a few clicks to make sure you’re in the know when it matters most.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay Burleson strong.
Crowley’s Fall Festival Brings Spooky, Sweet & Fun to Main Street
Pumpkins, Costumes, and Candy: Crowley’s Fall Festival Returns Oct. 18
Fall is rolling in, and Crowley is ready to celebrate in style. On October 18, the city will host its annual Fall Festival downtown at Crowley Crossing (201 E. Main Street) from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Kids and families are invited to show off their costumes and enjoy a lineup of festival favorites: free carnival games, bounce houses, pumpkin decorating, live music, food trucks, Market on Main vendors, and lots and lots of candy.
Highlights & Extras
Concert at 6:30 p.m., featuring Extended Play Band with hits spanning decades.
Dog Costume Contest — for your furry friends who want in on the fun, too. Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories. Registration is required by October 16.
Street closures: Main Street between Roberts and Hampton Road will be closed from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. for the event.
Admission: One canned food or nonperishable item. All donations go to Crowley House of Hope.
Why It Matters
Crowley’s Fall Festival is more than a night of fun, it’s a community gathering that keeps local spirit alive. It gives families a chance to enjoy safe, free entertainment; allows vendors and small businesses local visibility; and supports a worthy cause with food donations. It’s a celebration of fall, community, and giving back, all wrapped in one evening on Main Street.
Get the Most Out of the Night
Arrive early (or walk/bike) — parking will be tight with street closures.
Bring your canned goods donation — helps local families in need.
Pre-register your dog for the costume contest so you don’t miss out.
Bring a blanket or chairs for the concert, and plan to stroll among the vendors and activities.
Hope to see Crowley turn Main Street into a festive fall wonderland on October 18!
Biz Buzz
Say it three times… Beetlejuice. Beetlejuice. Beetlejuice.
A purple ube chocolate chip cookie with a green cheesecake grin and a brownie heart…. spooky, sweet, and dangerously delicious.
In a town that loves its local flavor, Luxe Cookie Co. is raising the bar…and the cookie dough. Based in Burleson, this small but mighty bakery has quickly become a favorite for its decadent, made-to-order cookies that look as good as they taste.
Luxe started with a simple belief: that a cookie should be more than a treat. It should be an experience. Each batch is handcrafted with high-quality ingredients and a touch of artistry, producing creations that range from classic chocolate chip to elaborate themed cookies for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.
From custom boxes to party platters, Luxe Cookie Co. blends creativity with community spirit. Customers rave not just about the flavor, but about the personal touch that comes with every order: thoughtful packaging, stunning designs, and the kind of warmth you only find in a small-town bakery.
Why It Matters
In a world of chain-store sweets, Luxe Cookie Co. is proof that passion and craftsmanship still matter. The bakery adds a sprinkle of joy to Burleson’s growing food scene, supporting local events, families, and celebrations — one cookie at a time.
Find Them
Follow Luxe Cookie Co. on Facebook and TikTok to see their latest cookie drops, custom designs, and seasonal specials. Preorders are available for birthdays, weddings, and events, but be warned: their cookies disappear fast.
OpenDoor FoodBank: Feeding Hope for Joshua & Beyond
See how one local food bank is changing lives, one meal at a time.
When hunger hits close to home, OpenDoor FoodBank (operated through Open Door Church) steps up, serving families in Joshua and neighboring areas with both meals and dignity. Their motto is simple: “food and hope.”
What They Do
OpenDoor runs twice-monthly food outreach events, distributing perishable and non-perishable items to anyone in need: no questions asked.
They serve Burleson (301 S Dobson St.) and also operate in Joshua / CR 912 locations.
Volunteer involvement is key: from morning prep (starting as early as 7:00–7:30 a.m.) to distribution and cleanup.
The pantry’s line typically closes around 10:00 a.m., though distribution can wrap up by 11:30 a.m. depending on demand.
Why It Matters
Meeting basic needs: In tight financial times, access to consistent food support can stabilize households and reduce stress.
No barriers: OpenDoor’s outreach does not discriminate by race, religion, age, or financial status. They simply offer help to those who need it.
Community connection: Beyond food, this is a place where neighbors help neighbors, volunteers build relationships, and dignity is preserved.
Local reach with faith roots: While connected to Open Door Church, the food bank’s mission reaches beyond church walls, acting as a bridge between faith-based service and community care.
How to Get Involved or Get Help
If you or someone you know needs food assistance, watch for the next twice-monthly event in Burleson or Joshua.
Interested in volunteering? Arrive early (7:00–7:30 a.m.) to help with setup or join the distribution and cleanup teams.
Donations of staple foods (canned goods, dry goods, fresh produce) are always welcome. Reach out via the church’s contact channels to see what’s most needed.
Please click the share button below to send the link to anyone who’d enjoy keeping up with what’s happening in South 817.
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.
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.
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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.
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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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