- Cary Spotlight
- Posts
- Cary Spotlight | Issue #409
Cary Spotlight | Issue #409
Avoid Post-Holiday Heartache, Secret Peeping Incident at Cary Park, Cary Students Gain Hands-On STEAM Experience, Wake County Lawn Service in Crisis,


In this Cary Spotlight Issue…
💭Spotlight Hook Trivia
😀 Meme of the Day
📰 Man Arrested After Secret Peeping Incident at Cary Park
📰 Cary Students Gain Hands-On STEAM Experience with New SmartLab
📰 Devastating Theft Leaves Wake County Lawn Service in Crisis
📢 Avoid Post-Holiday Heartache: Tips for Responsible Pet Adoption
☀️ Cary NC Weather
🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses
📅 Lots Of Events This Week (The Week at a Glance)
Question: Which river is the longest in Asia?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)
Discover Bee Banhmi, a local business sponsor of Cary Spotlight. They do catering, online ordering, home delivery and in-store. Great food made with quality ingredients.
“Dined with you today and had forgotten how fresh your ingredients are and how tasty the food is! Thanks for making me feel like I am visiting Family when I come in to eat. Friendly staff welcomes you in and eagerly share their knowledge about the choices to ensure you get exactly what you want/need! Love Bee BanhMi!” ~Lorraine Cross
You can read their Business Spotlight | Order Online | Catering Options
📚 TWO FREE AUDIOBOOKS! 📚
To get two free audiobooks from Audible, just follow this link: Learn more
Partner with us to reach our local audience in Cary, NC.
Advertising Opportunities
Meme of the Day.
Brought to you by Cary's Daily Newsletter.
What’s faster than word of mouth? Cary Spotlight! Keeps you updated on what is going on locally and connects businesses to our vibrant community.
We’re Building an Ambassador Team!
Do you love Cary Spotlight and want to help spread the word in your neighborhood? We’re exploring the idea of an Ambassador Program to connect with more Cary residents through Nextdoor—and we’d love to know if you’re interested!

Meme-o-meterClick to cast your vote (see live results) |
Editor’s Note: This is what I am jamming while putting together today’s issue. Enjoy!

Man Arrested After Secret Peeping Incident at Cary Park
A rare incident of secret peeping has been reported at Davis Drive Park in Cary, where a 48-year-old Chapel Hill man, Alan Douglass Jackson, was arrested for allegedly spying on a juvenile in a restroom. The juvenile’s quick actions and the help of witnesses, who captured the suspect’s license plate, allowed police to apprehend him shortly afterward.
Cary police have assured the public that such incidents are highly uncommon, noting this is the first reported case at Davis Drive Park. In response, officers are increasing patrols and encouraging parkgoers to remain vigilant.
The suspect has been released from custody and is set to appear in court next month. If convicted, Jackson could face jail time, sex offender registration, and a psychological evaluation. Police continue to monitor the situation to maintain the safety of Cary’s parks, emphasizing that this incident appears to be an isolated case. Read Full Report

TMSA Cary Students working on SmartLab Project Starter
Cary Students Gain Hands-On STEAM Experience with New SmartLab
Triangle Math and Science Academy (TMSA) in Cary is taking a bold step into the future of education with the introduction of its cutting-edge SmartLab, a facility dedicated to advancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning. Scheduled to open on December 17, the lab provides students with a hands-on, immersive environment that emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
The SmartLab aims to prepare students for the workforce by integrating technology into project-based learning, bridging the gap between academic concepts and real-world applications. Recognizing the growing demand for STEAM careers, the lab’s curriculum goes beyond technical skills to include soft skills like adaptability and teamwork, ensuring students are equipped to succeed in evolving industries.
As one of the largest public charter schools in the area, TMSA’s investment in this facility demonstrates its dedication to innovation and student success. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will give the community a firsthand look at the lab’s potential to transform education and provide a foundation for future leaders. Read Full Report
Devastating Theft Leaves Wake County Lawn Service in Crisis
At Your Service Lawn & Tree Care, a beloved Wake County business, suffered a major setback when thieves stole over $20,000 worth of equipment on November 26. Owner Francis Matthiadis, who has nurtured customer relationships since his teenage years, discovered the theft of his truck, trailer, mowers, trimmers, and blowers from a secluded location near Burlington Mills and Forestville Road.
The loss has been devastating during the slower winter months, leaving Matthiadis unable to fulfill many client requests. Loyal customers seeking seasonal cleanups have had to be turned away, threatening the business’s revenue and reputation.
While working with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the theft, Matthiadis and his team have used social media to spread the word and appeal for help. A GoFundMe page has also been set up to support the business’s recovery efforts. Despite limited resources, the team continues to provide services like tree removal while looking for ways to rebuild.
The theft has left Matthiadis reflecting on the years of effort it took to build his business and the challenges of moving forward without the tools that once made it possible. Read Full Report


Avoid Post-Holiday Heartache: Tips for Responsible Pet Adoption
Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Chris Coetzer speaks with Bernadette Vinci, CEO of Guardian HEALS, about the responsibilities and considerations involved in pet ownership, especially during the holiday season.
They discuss the emotional and financial commitments of adopting a pet, the importance of training and preparation, and the impact of shelters on abandoned animals. The conversation emphasizes the need for potential pet owners to reflect on their readiness and the option of fostering pets as a way to understand the commitment involved.
Keywords: pet adoption, holiday pets, pet ownership, responsibilities, shelters, fostering, pet care, emotional commitment, pet training, pet insurance
Takeaways
Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment.
Holiday stress can negatively impact a pet's adjustment.
Proper training for both pets and owners is essential.
Consider the size and needs of the pet before adoption.
Shelters are often overwhelmed after the holidays.
Fostering pets can be a good way to test readiness.
Pets require routine and stability in their environment.
Insurance is important for pet owners to consider.
Many shelters operate on limited resources and volunteers.
It's crucial to think about the emotional needs of pets.
Ready to explore learn more about Guardian HEALS? Read our spotlight on Guardian HEALS how they provide financial assistance to pet owners who struggle to afford veterinary care. Donate to this charity
How likely are you to adopt a pet, donate, or support an animal shelter this holiday season?Click to cast your vote |

one-of-kind cat boutique | Shop Online or VIsit Cary Location
Age Is Just a NumberIt is concerning to see that there are many people that are waking up feeling tired, experiencing stiffness, and feeling the need for more support in staying healthy. Take the Thrive Wellness Blueprint Quiz. Get recommendations designed to support your overall well-being. Click here to take the quiz | ![]() Meet Diane Friedman, a 100-year-old powerhouse from Cleveland, Ohio, who’s showing the world that age is just a number! |
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.
December 5th (Thursday)
NC Chinese Lantern Festival 4:30PM-10PM
Trivia Night at the Bark Bar 6PM-8PM
Cary Players Presents A Sherlock Carol 7:30PM-9:30PM
Skating Rink 6:30PM-9PM
Art Cart 12PM-4PM
December 6th (Friday)
NC Chinese Lantern Festival 4:30PM-10PM
Cary Players Presents A Sherlock Carol 7:30PM-9:30PM
My Favorite Things "Shana Tucker Sings in the Holidays" 6PM-7:15PM
My Favorite Things "Shana Tucker Sings in the Holidays" 8PM-9:15PM
Skating Rink 2PM-10PM
Food Truck: True North Poutine 4PM-9PM
A Peter Rabbit Christmas 5PM-6PM
A Peter Rabbit Christmas 7:30PM-8:30PM
December 7th (Saturday)
NC Chinese Lantern Festival 4:30PM-10PM
13th Annual Gifting Tree Project All Day
Tree Lighting Celebration 9AM-10PM
Photos with Santa 10AM-5PM
Skating Rink 2PM-10PM
Cary Farmers Market 9AM-12PM
December 8th (Sunday)
NC Chinese Lantern Festival 4:30PM-10PM
Photos with Santa 10AM-5PM
13th Annual Gifting Tree Project All Day
Cary Players Presents A Sherlock Carol 7:30PM-9:30PM
Skating Rink 2PM-10PM
A Peter Rabbit Christmas 2PM-3PM
A Peter Rabbit Christmas 5PM-6PM
December 9th (Monday)
NC Chinese Lantern Festival 4:30PM-10PM
Photos with Santa 10AM-5PM
13th Annual Gifting Tree Project All Day
2024 Women's College Cup - National Championship Match All Day
Cary Players Presents A Sherlock Carol 7:30PM-9:30PM
Skating Rink 1PM-9PM
12 Days of FITmas: Stretch & Refresh 10AM-11AM
Upcycled Glass Etching Workshop 6:30PM-8:30PM
We invite you to check it out, stay informed, and submit your events to Thousands of Cary Locals!
👇 Have an Upcoming Event?👇
The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
The Yangtze River, also known as the Chang Jiang, is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, stretching approximately 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles). Flowing from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, the river plays a crucial role in China's culture, economy, and environment. It is home to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station, and supports diverse ecosystems and bustling cities along its banks.
For more information, visit Britannica's entry on the Yangtze River.
How Did We Do With This Issue?Click to cast your vote |