Neighborhood news guy Wes Platt discusses the recent election results in Durham, highlighting changes in city council leadership and the implications for the community. He also covers the grants awarded to local schools by the Durham Public Schools Foundation, emphasizing the importance of community support for education. Additionally, he addresses public safety concerns, sharing insights from the latest crime report, and highlights upcoming community events.

He stresses the significance of local news and encourages community involvement to foster a well-informed citizenry.

Takeaways:

• The recent election resulted in significant changes in Durham's city council.
• Durham Public Schools received grants to support various wellness initiatives.
• Community engagement is crucial for the success of local schools.
• Public safety remains a concern with rising crime rates in certain areas.
• Local events, such as volunteer recognition, strengthen community ties.
• Vulcan Elements' partnership with the Department of Defense could boost local jobs.
• Hillside High School's drama season showcases student talent and creativity.
• Supporting local news is essential for community awareness and involvement.
• Diversity in local news representation is important for accurate storytelling.
• Community support can enhance educational resources and opportunities for students.

Subscribe to Southpoint Access!

Idrissa A. Smith takes us to Nerra in Durham, NC, a "seafood-forward" restaurant with North Carolina roots. With a seasonal menu sourced by Tarheel State farmers, fishers, and foragers, does this evolution of the former Krill location have what it takes to be proclaimed "Dris Eats the Streets Certified?"

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.

Support ultra-local news: ⁠https://soduwelikelocal.news⁠

Tips & story ideas: ⁠wes.platt@southpointaccess.news⁠

Community Links:

• Follow on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Join ⁠⁠⁠⁠our Discord community⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Join ⁠the Southpoint Access subreddit⁠!