In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

☀️ Cary NC Weather

📅 Lots Of Events This Week & 65+ things to do in February!

📰 Duke Energy Rate Hike Sends Shockwaves Through North Carolina Households

📰 NC Police Department Faces Backlash Over Decision to Keep Aging K-9 on Duty

🚨 The Cary Police Department Crime Data

▶️ Old Scam Is Becoming Popular Again - How It Works?

🏆 Super Bowl LVIII Preview: Chiefs vs. 49ers Set for Strategic Showdown

🏆 UConn's Auriemma Approaches 1,200 Wins: A Legacy of Excellence and Adaptation

😀 Viral Meme

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

Question: Who was the African American scientist who experimented with peanuts to to make lotions, flour, soups, dyes, plastics, and gasoline—though not peanut butter?

A) George Washington Carver B) George W. Bush C) George Washington

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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Duke Energy Rate Hike Sends Shockwaves Through North Carolina Households

Throughout North Carolina, Duke Energy customers experienced a significant hike in their electricity bills in January, attributed to a rate increase adjusting fuel surcharges. 

The increase, affecting those using about 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity, meant an additional $12 to $15 on their monthly bills. Duke Energy introduced these "rider fees" as part of an initiative to make billing more transparent and to clearly delineate the various elements that contribute to the total cost.

Despite the intention for clarity, the move has led to financial strain for many, with the utility acknowledging that usage and weather significantly influence costs. Read full story

NC Police Department Faces Backlash Over Decision to Keep Aging K-9 on Duty

Nathan Ingram and the Dunn community are embroiled in a dispute with the local police department over the reassignment of Pac-Man, a seven-year-old police K-9. 

Ingram, recovering from an injury and moving to a new agency, hoped to retire Pac-Man, citing the dog's health issues and their strong bond. However, the department insists on keeping Pac-Man in service, based on a medical clearance and the belief that work is in the dog's best interest.

The controversy, highlighted in a recent city council meeting, underscores the challenges of balancing a police dog's health and service demands, sparking debate over the appropriate retirement age and care for these dedicated animals. Read full story

The Cary Police Department Crime Data

The Cary Police Department emphasizes accuracy in its crime data reporting, despite challenges inherent in the process. Daily updates and adherence to privacy laws are central to their approach, though the dynamic nature of crime data means information can change over time.

The crime data presented by the Cary Police Department spans the last decade, plus the current year, reflecting a commitment to transparency over an extended period. View Cary NC Police Incidents

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Super Bowl LVIII Preview: Chiefs vs. 49ers Set for Strategic Showdown

The Chiefs, under Mahomes, have shown remarkable resilience, with a record that speaks to their ability to keep games close. Similarly, the 49ers, led by Purdy, have rarely lost by more than one possession, showcasing their explosive potential to come back from deficits. A key narrative centers around the strategic chess match between Shanahan's offensive schemes and Spagnuolo's defensive strategies, which have historically produced closely contested outcomes.

San Francisco's offensive versatility, employing various personnel groupings to exploit defensive weaknesses, contrasts with Kansas City's defensive efficiency, which has been a hallmark of their success under Andy Reid. Furthermore, the 49ers' effective use of running backs and tight ends in diverse formations poses a unique challenge to the Chiefs' defensive setup, emphasizing the importance of tactical flexibility and adaptation.

The anticipation for this game is not just about the potential for offensive fireworks but also the strategic nuances that could tilt the field. With both teams demonstrating a high level of efficiency and creativity in their play-calling, the matchup is expected to be a showcase of football intelligence as much as talent. Read full story

UConn's Auriemma Approaches 1,200 Wins: A Legacy of Excellence and Adaptation

In his 39th season at UConn, Geno Auriemma stands on the brink of 1,200 career wins, a milestone that underscores his legendary status in college basketball. 

Yet, as he nears this achievement, Auriemma reflects on the broader implications of his career and the future of the sport. With a deep connection to his roots in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and a commitment to the development of his players, Auriemma's tenure at UConn has been defined by success and transformation.

As the sport navigates changes such as the transfer portal and NIL agreements, Auriemma considers the evolving nature of coaching and its impact on player relationships.

Despite these challenges, his dedication to creating meaningful collegiate experiences remains unwavering. As retirement looms, Auriemma's legacy is not just in the wins and championships but in the lasting influence he has on his players and the sport of women's college basketball. Read full story

Town of Cary Notice: Cary 311 is experiencing issues with our on-hold messaging. Phones are still being answered as usual but there may be an absence of messaging when placed on hold. Citizens can reach out by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000, email to [email protected] or visit carync.gov/311.

Upcoming Local Events

February 6th (Tuesday)

• Subcommittee of the Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Task Force 5:15PM-5:45PM

• Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Task Force 6PM-8PM

• Board Gamers Friday Night Party 5PM-8PM

• Cookie Decorating (Downtown Cary Park) 6:30PM-8:30PM

• Tuesday night Spades at Gamer's Tavern in Cary 6PM

February 7th (Wednesday)

• A Taste of Black History 11:30AM-1:30PM

• Senior Advisory Board 12PM-2PM

• Historical Marker Study Committee of HPC 5:30PM-6:30PM

• Historic Preservation Commission 6:30PM-8:30PM

• Floral Arranging (Downtown Cary Park) 6:30PM-7:30PM

• Grandparent's Day! (Once Upon A Child Cary NC) 9:30AM-8PM  

  65+ things to do in February (across the Triangle)!