Early Voting Push, Wildlife Win, Biogen Chat & Community Notes

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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.

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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