Cary Spotlight | Issue #243

Smart Sensors Transform Cary's Park, Restaurant Break-Ins, Look-Alike Plants Warning, & Award-Winning Pet Spa

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

😀 Quote of the Day

📰 Smart Sensors Revolutionize Cary’s Downtown Park Operations

📰 Fayetteville Restaurant Owners Charged in Triangle Break-Ins

📰 Beware of Look-Alike Plants That Could Be Mistaken for Cannabis in NC

📰 Award-Winning Mosa Pet Spa: Tailored Grooming and Care for Cary’s Pets

☀️ Cary NC Weather

📅 Lots Of Events This Week

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

Question: What is the most attended annual fair in the United States?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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Quote Meme of the Day.
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Smart Sensors Revolutionize Cary’s Downtown Park Operations

Cary’s Downtown Park has seamlessly integrated cutting-edge technology into its landscape, turning everyday items into smart devices. The park's trash cans are equipped with sensors that monitor fullness levels and transmit data via a long-range, wide-area network known as LoRaWAN. This real-time information helps town staff optimize trash collection schedules.

In addition to the trash cans, soil sensors measure moisture levels to inform irrigation needs, and bathroom door sensors track foot traffic. The park is also equipped with noise sensors, tree sensors, and a temperature sensor on the beer keg at the park bar. These advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT) place Downtown Cary Park at the forefront of smart park technology.

The park, which opened in November after two decades of planning, spans seven acres and offers a variety of amenities, including a concert stage, pond, slides, fountains, ping-pong tables, a golf putting surface, fire pits, and abundant greenery. The $68 million project discreetly integrates sensors throughout the park, including a kiosk that counts cell phones to estimate visitor numbers.

Cary operates its own LoRaWAN, which allows the town to manage costs and maintain control over the data collected. Despite potential privacy concerns, the data is anonymized and does not include any personally identifiable information.

Noise sensors ensure that concerts do not disturb nearby residents, and tree sensors detect small movements that could indicate a risk of falling.

Although the sensor network is still in its pilot phase, town officials aim to tailor park management based on data insights. Partnering with local software analytics company SAS, Cary hopes to expand this smart data system to neighboring towns such as Apex, Morrisville, Durham, and Raleigh. This initiative may soon change how people perceive public spaces and their maintenance. Read full article

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Fayetteville Restaurant Owners Charged in Triangle Break-Ins

Robert Harris and Yonaria Locklear, owners of “The Vegan Spot” in Fayetteville, have been charged with multiple break-ins in the Triangle area.

They appeared in Wake County Court, where Locklear's request for a bond reduction was denied. Harris faces a $3.5 million bond due to a probation violation.

Local law enforcement, led by Sgt. Kenric Alexander, emphasized the collaborative effort among police departments in addressing these crimes.

The targeted restaurants suffered extensive damage, and the investigation into the duo's alleged activities is ongoing. Read full story

Beware of Look-Alike Plants That Could Be Mistaken for Cannabis in NC

North Carolina residents should be cautious of certain plants that closely resemble cannabis, such as cassava and hemp agrimony, especially since home cultivation remains illegal despite the state's first medical marijuana dispensary opening earlier this year.

Experts suggest disposing of any found cannabis without fuss and deciding on the removal of similar-looking plants based on personal preference. These look-alikes, including coral plants and chaste trees, may inadvertently raise suspicions due to their similar appearance and, in some cases, odor. Read Full Story

Mosa Pet Spa Resort & Boutique (Amanda & Ernesto Borge)

Award-Winning Mosa Pet Spa: Tailored Grooming and Care for Cary’s Pets

Mosa Pet Spa Resort & Boutique, a local, family-operated full-service pet spa, has been redefining pet care in Cary for the past 15 years. Founded in 2008 by Amanda and Ernesto Borge, Mosa emerged from a deep-seated belief in providing personalized, one-on-one holistic care for pets. This approach has not only set the foundation for their services but has also propelled Mosa to open two specialized locations within Cary, each dedicated to delivering the highest standards of grooming and care.

In 2024, Mosa's excellence was recognized with several prestigious awards: Indy Week named them Wake County's Best Groomer and Best Boarding/Daycare Facility, and they also received the Daily Groomer accolade for Top Grooming Salon in North Carolina. These honors reflect Mosa's commitment to exceptional care and customer satisfaction.

At the heart of Mosa's philosophy is the commitment to exceptional care for animals and their families. This is evident in their tailored services and the use of minimal ingredient, high-end products to ensure optimal skin and coat health. Moreover, Mosa stands out for its certified service providers, who are continuously updated with the latest in pet care and grooming through continued education and certifications.

But Mosa's impact extends beyond grooming tables and spa baths. Their community involvement is a testament to their dedication to being an integral part of the Cary community. From sponsoring local school events to partnering with pet-friendly businesses and supporting local rescue organizations, Mosa actively contributes to the well-being of the community's pets, particularly those waiting for their forever homes.

The founders, Amanda and Ernesto Borge, bring a unique blend of passion and expertise to the business. Amanda's journey began on a 4H farm, leading her to a career enriched with certifications and accolades in animal grooming and care. Ernesto, initially new to the pet scene, was inspired by Amanda's dedication and helped establish Mosa to support her vision. Together, they have cultivated a business that not only cares for pets but also nurtures a more compassionate world.

Mosa's future looks bright with multiple partnered events on the horizon, including participation in local gatherings like Bond Brothers' Wag-tines and grooming discussions with pet owners. As they continue to serve the Cary community, Mosa Pet Spa Resort & Boutique remains a shining example for those seeking a blend of professional care, holistic wellness, and compassionate community involvement for their pets.

In a world where pet care often becomes impersonal, Mosa stands as a reminder of the importance of individual attention and holistic well-being. As Cary's furry residents and their families seek out services that truly understand their needs, Mosa Pet Spa Resort & Boutique remains a cherished community gem, dedicated to making a difference one pet at a time.

Mention “Cary Spotlight” when you book an appointment

Resort Address: 931 Manchester Dr, Cary, NC 27511

Boutique Address: 213 Waldo St, Cary, NC 27511

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All this June celebrate the colors of Pride with activities and events in Cary. Events include Pride Cary Night Market at Downtown Cary Park on June 22; Allies and Icons Pride Film Festival at The Cary Theater; Pride Through the Decades, an art exhibition at Cary Arts Center and more. Learn more

Upcoming Local Events

Looking ahead to events happening in Cary, NC for the rest of the week.
Outdoor events may be changed due to weather, so click the links to see latest event information.

June 22th (Saturday)

June 23rd (Sunday)

June 24th (Monday)

The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇

The State Fair of Texas is the most attended annual fair in the United States, drawing millions of visitors each year to Fair Park in Dallas, Texas. Established in 1886, the fair is renowned for its wide array of attractions, including live music, livestock shows, creative arts competitions, and an impressive assortment of food vendors serving iconic fair foods.

Highlights include the Texas Star Ferris wheel and Big Tex, the fair's towering mascot. The State Fair of Texas not only showcases the rich culture and traditions of the state but also provides fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

For more information, you can visit the official State Fair of Texas website.