College Station parks drew in more than 3 million visits in 2025 as the city prepares to launch several major park improvement projects, as presented in the July 9 City Council meeting.

The overview: The council received updates from Kelsey Heiden, the director of parks and recreation, regarding the positive impacts the parks had on the community in 2025. Heiden also briefed the council on several updates regarding the future of the parks and the department's plans.

College Station parks received nearly 3.3 million visitors in 2025, with the most popular destination being the Veterans Park and Athletic Complex.

What Council is saying: The council complimented the work the department did in 2025 and the continued output in 2026.

Council member Scott Shafer said he was thankful for everything the department is doing and how the parks have changed throughout the years.

The takeaway: Mayor John Nichols thanked Heiden for her presentation and said he was excited for parks and recreation to present again soon.

The Blinn College District's Theatre Arts Program received an Award of Distinction from the Texas Educational Theatre Association, or TxETA. The award recognizes Blinn as one of four exemplary community college theater programs in the state. Blinn announced the award in a news release July 13.

About the award: The award is one of TxETA's highest honors and recognizes higher education programs for demonstrating excellence through performances, student opportunities and community engagement, according to the news release.

Blinn said it would be recognized during TxETA's annual TheatreFest conference Oct. 2 in Galveston.

The impact: More than 180 campuses, colleges and school districts applied for the 2026 recognition.

What leaders are saying: “This recognition reflects the dedication of our students and theatre arts faculty to both excellence and creativity,” Debbi Vavra, dean of Arts, Kinesiology, and Agriculture, said in a statement.

Waco-based family-owned paleteria Helados La Azteca has officially opened across from the Tejas Center in Bryan.

Founded in 1998 by the Garcia family, Helados La Azteca traces its roots to Jalisco and says its mission is centered on sharing authentic Mexican flavors through ice cream, snacks and community-focused service.

What they offer: Helados La Azteca offers a wide variety of treats, including:

• Paletas (Mexican ice pops)

• Ice cream

• Handcrafted beverages

• Fresh fruit

Customers will also be able to find savory items and street-style snacks, including elote and nachos.

Before you go: As it is a fast-growing family business, the Bryan location is managed by Monica Garcia, founder Alfredo's daughter and owner Eduardo's sister.

• Opened July 3

• 724 E. Villa Maria Road, Bryan

Scripture Haven, a local, independently owned Christian bookstore in College Station, aims to uphold its mission of spreading the word of Christianity and its values through the sale of Christian books and items.

At a glance: Founded by Linda and Gary Moore, Scripture Haven has operated in College Station for more than 55 years and reveres itself as the oldest independent Christian bookstore in Texas. The store sells Bibles, Christian media, clothing, knick-knacks and other religious items and gifts.

Going forward: Moore has continued to operate the store since her husband’s passing. It was originally uncertain, but she said it was God’s plan to keep going.

“I thought about selling the place, but it didn’t work out because it wasn’t in God’s plans for me,” she said. “I am here still. He has provided and the cash flow is good."

Before you go: Located in Post Oak Mall, Scripture Haven is open to all those looking for faith-based goods.

• Hours: Mon-Sat, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
• 1500 Harvey Road #3006, College Station