Good morning, Bryan.

Brazos Valley Food Bank director Theresa Mangapora said the bank has managed less help from the government during a shutdown—using a $195,000 gift from H-E-B to meet rising food demand among local families.

SNAP benefits will stop tomorrow and one in six households in the area is struggling with hunger after over 3,000 federal workers had their pay cut.

The Texas Semiconductor Summit ended Thursday with panel discussions on quantum computing, supply chain issues and plans for a new silicon wafer factory in Sherman.

GlobalWafer Co. Ltd.—the only U.S. silicon wafer maker—presented its new factory while Texas A&M officials announced plans to break ground on an 80,000 square-foot semiconductor institute at RELLIS campus next year.

At the Brazos County meeting on October 28, Kimberly Gonzalez briefed commissioners on three tech projects set for future tax breaks—two on the RELLIS campus and one expanding Honeywell’s plant in north Bryan pending funding.

The agreements are designed to spur job growth and capital investment over periods of five to ten years while construction has yet to begin.

Texas A&M runner Cooper Cawthra was named men’s SEC Cross Country Scholar-Athlete of the Year as he led his team to two meet titles, broke a program record with a sub-23 minute finish, and maintained a 3.83 GPA while pursuing his master’s degree; the Aggies will compete today in Knoxville (with the men’s 8k at 9:08 a.m. and women’s 6k at 9:53 a.m.).

Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed was named to the Davey O’Brien Class of 2025 award list, making him a candidate for the Davey O’Brien Award as he helped lead the Aggies to an 8-0 start—he posted strong numbers with nearly 2,000 passing yards and 23 total touchdowns.

Texas A&M Athletics announced that standout center back Riley Crooks earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors — she started all 17 matches and helped the Aggies post five shutouts during conference play.

Hiring Red, White and You Event

10 AM – 2 PM — Texas Workforce — Free entry — Connect with employers and explore new job opportunities tailored for veterans and the general public.

Brazos Valley Blessings Christmas Gala & Silent Auction

6-10 p.m. — Legends Event Center — Tickets available from $15 — Celebrate the holiday season with a magical evening of empowerment and community support.

Tree Planting, Pruning & Disease

12-1 p.m. — Demonstration Idea Garden — Free entry — Learn essential gardening techniques with the Master Gardeners in a hands-on educational setting.

Thanksgiving Kick Off Cornhole Tournament

9 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Legends Event Center — Free entry — Toss your way into the holiday season with friendly competition and family fun.