Cary Spotlight | Issue #421

Driver Crashes Stolen Truck Into Shops, The Salty Donut Coming to Cary, Flat, Fast, and Full of Heart

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

😀 Meme of the Day

❤️ You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Ramona, Brenda!

📰 Driver Crashes Stolen Truck Into Apex Shops After Violent Rampage

📰 The Salty Donut Coming to Cary as Fenton Growth Continues

📰 Wake County Investigators Charge Local Man in Secret Peeping Case

🚨 The Cary Police Department Crime Data

🧭 Flat, Fast, and Full of Heart: Tobacco Road Marathon Elevates Community and Charities

☀️ Cary NC Weather

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

📅 Lots Of Events This Week (The Week at a Glance)

Question: What is the longest river in Europe?

(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

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You’re So Sweet:

Thank You, Ramona, Brenda!

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Driver Crashes Stolen Truck Into Apex Shops After Violent Rampage

In a shocking incident early Saturday morning, a stolen flatbed truck crashed into two businesses on East Williams Street in Apex, leaving a building condemned and owners grappling with an uncertain future. Authorities report that the driver, Racqueab Overton, had attacked two people at separate locations before stealing the truck and barreling it into Apex Coins and Currency.

The destruction extended to City Barber Shop, a neighboring business with a 35-year history in the community. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the businesses were closed at the time. The owner of the coin shop, who is typically there on Saturday mornings, had taken a rare day off, a decision that may have saved his life.

The damage has left both businesses in limbo, as rebuilding or relocating hinges on decisions from the property’s owner. For Donnie Seagroves, the barber shop’s owner, the loss is deeply personal, marking a devastating turn in his decades-long career at the same location.

In the meantime, Seagroves is asking his customers to leave their contact information at the shop as he plans his next steps. Overton, who faces multiple charges including assault with a deadly weapon and vehicle theft, remains in custody as the legal process unfolds. Read Full Report

The Salty Donut Coming to Cary as Fenton Growth Continues

The Salty Donut, a renowned specialty donut shop founded in Miami, is bringing its handcrafted treats to Cary in 2025 as part of the Fenton mixed-use development. This marks the latest addition to the ambitious 92-acre project near Cary Towne Boulevard and I-40, a major development that aims to redefine the local retail and entertainment scene.

Fenton, developed in partnership by Hines, Columbia Development Group, and Affinius Capital, is rapidly expanding its lineup of businesses. Recent and upcoming openings include Brewery Bhavana, Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, Doc B’s, and more. When completed, Fenton will offer 2.5 million square feet of residential, retail, office, and entertainment spaces, along with a seven-story hotel. With its national reputation and growing footprint, The Salty Donut is another indicator of Cary's transformation into a dynamic and desirable destination. Read Full Report 

Wake County Investigators Charge Local Man in Secret Peeping Case

A Wake County man is facing six felony charges for secret peeping following an investigation into incidents that occurred nearly a decade ago. Bradley Hummel, 46, was arrested last Friday after authorities linked him to allegations of capturing private images and videos of two victims without their consent at a single residence in 2015 and 2016.

The Wake County Sheriff’s Office began its inquiry after receiving a report on October 31, revealing that Hummel had secretly recorded the victims, both of whom were acquainted with him. The investigation confirmed that the incidents took place at the same home. While Hummel is currently charged with six counts of felony secret peeping, law enforcement officials have indicated that the investigation remains active as they work to determine whether further charges are warranted. Read Full Report

Credit: Cary NC Police Dept. (16 Dec 2024)

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

Flat, Fast, and Full of Heart: Tobacco Road Marathon Elevates Community and Charities

On a crisp March morning, runners lace up their shoes and gather on the flat, scenic trails of Cary, North Carolina. But for the organizers of the Tobacco Road Marathon (TRM), the race goes beyond personal bests or Boston qualifiers. It’s about channeling the passion of the running community into life-changing charitable contributions.

Founded in 2009 by Kazem Yahyapour, an 11-time Boston Marathon finisher, and co-founder Cid Cordosa Jr., owner of Inside-Out Sports, TRM has grown into a cornerstone event for runners nationwide. With an all-volunteer board and over 700 race-day helpers, TRM is a nonprofit powerhouse, raising over $1.8 million for organizations like the American Red Cross, Hope for the Warriors, and the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The Tobacco Road Marathon is deeply rooted in community values, bringing together volunteers who dedicate their time and energy alongside runners striving to make a meaningful impact. From the passion of its participants to the collective effort of its supporters, the event exemplifies how shared dedication can drive positive change.

A Course to Remember

The Veradigm Tobacco Road Marathon, scheduled for March 16, 2025, offers runners over 20 miles of the picturesque American Tobacco Trail. The course, known for its flat terrain and downhill finish, has earned accolades from participants and publications alike. In 2014, Runner’s World named it one of the top nine best new marathons.

Reviewers rave about the experience. “I signed up last minute to try for a personal record, and this race delivered,” says one participant. “The course is perfect for PRs, and the volunteers were amazing. I crushed my time by seven minutes!”

Another runner called it “a great flat course, a well-organized race,” while others praised its festive post-race celebration and high-quality medals.

Making an Impact

What truly sets TRM apart is its unwavering commitment to giving back. With 100% of proceeds directed to its partner charities, the marathon ensures that every mile run translates to meaningful contributions. Over the years, TRM has raised over $1.8 million for impactful organizations, including the American Red Cross, Hope for the Warriors, Breakthrough T1D, and the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The American Red Cross, one of TRM’s primary beneficiaries, provides critical support during emergencies, offering relief and aid to communities in need. From disaster response to blood donations, every dollar raised helps the Red Cross continue its vital mission of helping neighbors across the street and around the world.

The event’s reach doesn’t stop there. TRM supports wounded veterans and their families through Hope for the Warriors and aids in creating safe recreational spaces with the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy. Every partner charity benefits from TRM’s all-volunteer ethos and the generosity of runners, sponsors, and community members.

The community impact extends beyond charity. Each year, thousands of runners and spectators bring economic benefits to Cary’s shops, restaurants, and hotels. Local businesses thrive as the town transforms into a destination for race weekend.

Looking Ahead

As TRM approaches its $2 million milestone in 2025, its mission remains steadfast: bringing people together to run for a greater good. “We’re not just about running,” the organizers emphasize. “We’re about running to make a difference.”

For those who have yet to experience the Tobacco Road Marathon, this is the year to join the movement. Whether it’s chasing a PR, enjoying the scenic trails, or supporting vital charities, TRM offers an opportunity to run with purpose.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this impactful event. Register today at TobaccoRoadMarathon.com and join thousands of runners in making every mile count for the community. Together, we can cross the finish line for a brighter future.

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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 17th (Tuesday)

December 18th (Wednesday)

December 19th (Thursday)

December 20th (Friday)

December 21st (Saturday)

December 22th (Sunday)

December 23th (Monday)

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

The Volga River, the longest river in Europe, stretches approximately 3,530 kilometers (2,193 miles) through Russia. Flowing from the Valdai Hills to the Caspian Sea, the Volga is a vital waterway for transportation, agriculture, and industry. Known as the "Mother Volga," it has deep cultural and historical significance in Russia, with many cities, such as Volgograd and Kazan, located along its banks.

For more information, visit Britannica's entry on the Volga River.