Wes Platt recaps Durham early voting (3,800 ballots; last day Nov. 1), who’s on the 2025 municipal ballot, a $30K boost for Piedmont Wildlife Center, Jordan High’s visit from Rep. Valerie Foushee, a year-end Hope Valley Elementary PTA pledge, and more - plus Halloween plans and a community survey with a Bull City Solera gift card drawing.

Early voting snapshot (through Oct. 23):

• ~3,800 ballots cast with about a week left.

• South Regional Library leads turnout; Wes voted at the DCBOE site on S. Roxboro St.

• Goal: Can we top 11,256 early votes from the primary?

• Reminder: Last day to vote early is Nov. 1; Election Day Nov. 4.

Who’s on the Durham 2025 municipal ballot:

• Mayor: Leonardo Williams (incumbent) vs. Anjanee Bell

• Ward 1: DeDreana Freeman (incumbent) vs. Matt Kopac

• Ward 2: Mark-Anthony Middleton (incumbent) vs. Shanetta Burris

• Ward 3: Chelsea Cook (incumbent) vs. Diana Medoff

Community impact:

• Piedmont Wildlife Center set a $10,000 goal; supporters ultimately gave $30,000 after a recent appeal. If you pitched in - thank you.

• Jordan High School: Visit from Rep. Valerie Foushee to discuss how Congress works.

• State notes: Commentary on the NC budget impasse and redistricting debates.

Giving pledge (now–Dec. 31):

• 20% of subscriptions and 10% of donations/sponsorships go to the Hope Valley Elementary PTA. Supporting local news also supports local kids.

From the livestream:

• Guest replay: Julie & Bill Christiansen (both former Marines) from Biogen (RTP) - on MS, biotech, and community.

• Personal note: Pickup hoops with John Michael - minor injuries, recovering.

• Halloween prompt: Share the best decorated neighborhoods in South Durham.

• Community survey: Take 2 minutes; enter to win a Bull City Solera & Tap Room gift card.

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