Brazos County Sees Key Voting Alerts, New University Leadership, and Community Heroics

Exciting Updates from Brazos County!

Hey there, Brazos County! There’s quite a bit going on around our community lately, and it’s all super important, especially as we head deeper into the voting season. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer, it’s essential to stay informed, so let’s dive in!

Heads Up for Voters!

If you’re planning on hitting the polls during early voting, there’s a message from our elections administrator Trudy Hancock that you don’t want to miss! She’s reminding everyone that once you print your ballot, it’s crucial to drop it in the ballot box before you leave the voting center.

Why, you ask? Well, if you walk out holding your ballot, state law means you can’t come back in to cast it. It’s pretty straightforward: if you leave with it, you can’t vote again. So, be sure to follow through all the steps to make your vote count. First, make your selections, then print the ballot, and finally, scan it into the machine! Only then will it be counted.

Just to make sure you have all the details, here are the early voting hours: Saturday (October 26) from 7 AM to 7 PM, Sunday (October 27) from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Monday through Friday (October 28-November 1) from 7 AM to 7 PM. Mark your calendars and make your voice heard!

A&M Has a New Sheriff in Town

formal investiture of Mark Welsh as the university’s 27th president. Welsh shared that when first asked about the investiture ceremony, he initially said “no” but warmed up to the idea after learning about its rich tradition.

He emphasized that the role is less about him and more about the university. Welsh aims to earn the trust of faculty, confidence of the staff, and respect of students—past and present. Plus, he’s big on accountability, which resonates well with many in the community.

During the ceremony, Welsh was introduced by his daughter, Liz Beechinor, who is an Aggie herself! They were joined by various prominent speakers including Congressman Michael McCaul, who presented him with a congressional resolution. The ceremony surely highlighted a pivotal moment not just for Welsh, but for the university as a whole.

Life-Saving Actions in Our Schools

Moving on to some heroic actions in our schools, the Bryan ISD school board recently recognized two incredible lifesaving rescues carried out on campus. Rudder High’s Principal Rachel Leighton recounted a dramatic situation from August. A man delivering an ID was found unconscious in his parked vehicle during a scorching three-hour stretch, but thanks to prompt action, he was saved!

Similarly, Bryan High Principal Lane Buban shared a story from September when a substitute teacher passed out but was swiftly rescued. The community came together on October 21 to honor those who jumped into action and saved lives. It only highlights the amazing spirit and dedication of our schools!

Undercover Gambling Bust

Bryan Police Department for their successful undercover operation that shut down illegal gambling machines across eight convenience stores in the area. Thanks to citizen complaints, police carried out the raids and seized a whopping $64,446 from the machines!

While nobody has been arrested yet, the investigation is ongoing. It’s a great reminder of the community’s role in keeping Brazos County safe. The police continue to monitor these activities closely, ensuring that local laws are respected and upheld.

So there you have it, folks! Brazos County is buzzing with activity, and being involved helps us all stay informed and connected. Whether it’s voting, celebrating our local heroes, or keeping a watchful eye on local laws, we each play a part in making our community vibrant. Stay tuned for more updates!