🧭 Here’s what’s in today’s issue:

• 🧠 Trivia Challenge: Spotlight Hook
• 📰 News: Today’s Celebration of Freedom and Community
• 📰 Scrollback: Cary’s Pickleball Debate
• 📰 Scrollback: Home Buying Pitfalls (Part 2)
• 😄 Meme of the Day – Just for laughs
• 🏪 Support Local: Small biz to check out and coffee booster
• 📅 Events: Upcoming Events (Top Picks)

👉 Browse the highlights. Skip to your favorites.

Did someone forward you our Cary newsletter? Then subscribe here

Question: In what country can you visit the Galápagos Islands?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

Trust and Local Awareness

Discover how Cary Spotlight Connect, a free podcast, helps local businesses in Cary share their story with an engaged audience.

Today’s Celebration of Freedom and Community

The rhythms of resilience and the power of remembrance come alive today as Cary hosts its Juneteenth Celebration at Downtown Cary Park. From 3 to 9 p.m., the park transforms into a vibrant hub of liberation, culture, and unity—honoring the ongoing story of Black freedom in America through art, music, and shared history.

Curated by historian Darrell Stover, today’s “Songs of Freedom” event features a dynamic lineup of jazz and R&B performances, spoken word, choral music, and reenactments. It’s a soulful, multigenerational tribute to the triumphs and challenges that shape Juneteenth’s legacy.

Families can enjoy hands-on activities in the art pavilion, browse local vendors, and grab a bite from food trucks throughout the evening. All performances take place on the Great Lawn, creating an inclusive space for reflection, celebration, and connection. Accessibility services are available to ensure all guests can fully participate. Event Info

We’re rewinding the feed to spotlight a standout moment, story, or snapshot from Cary’s past. Let’s scroll back and see…Cary Spotlight Issue #086

Cary’s Pickleball Debate

In response to Cary Spotlight's coverage of the town’s evolving pickleball culture, a reader poll drew 85 responses, revealing clear support for continued investment in the sport:

• 🟩 Yes — 55 votes (64.7%)
  The majority favor more public pickleball courts, citing the sport’s growing popularity, accessibility for all ages, and community-building benefits. Supporters emphasized the need for affordable public spaces amid rising demand, especially post-pandemic.

• 🟥 Meh, I don’t care either way — 21 votes (24.7%)
  Nearly a quarter of respondents are indifferent, suggesting that while pickleball is rising in prominence, it may not yet resonate with everyone in the community.

• 🟥 No — 9 votes (10.6%)
  A small but notable group expressed concern over disproportionate attention given to pickleball. One reader highlighted the need to balance recreational investments across all age groups and interests.

Key Takeaway:
With nearly two-thirds of respondents voting “Yes,” public sentiment strongly favors expanding access to pickleball in Cary. However, community voices also underscore the importance of ensuring that growth in one recreational area doesn’t come at the expense of others.

Click here for the 15 Most Popular Pickleball Courts in Cary NC

Home Buying Pitfalls (Part 2): What Many First-Time Buyers Miss

In Part 1, we covered the hidden challenges that often escape a buyer’s first (or even second) walkthrough—from tree roots to poor lighting. But the list doesn’t stop there. In this second installment, we continue drawing from the lived experiences of homeowners—many of whom learned these lessons the hard way—to help you spot potential red flags before they become expensive regrets.

Here are more critical details homebuyers often overlook:

• Historical Restrictions: If the property is designated historic or listed on a registry, local laws may limit what you can change—even something as simple as removing an old shed.

• Electrical Outlets: Older homes often lack adequate outlets in bedrooms and living spaces. Upgrading can be expensive and invasive.

• Repair Costs: Updating an aging home can cost more than expected, especially if you're not a DIY expert. Always budget for more than you think you'll need.

• Home Inspection: Never skip it. And consider add-ons like radon or mold testing. These upfront costs could save you thousands.

• Staging Tricks: A well-staged home can hide flaws. Look past the trendy decor and check for things like poor lighting, cheap finishes, or lack of windows.

• HOA Rules: Read the fine print. Some homeowners associations have strict or even predatory rules that can affect everything from mailbox color to how often you mow your lawn.

  🏡 Coming Monday: Cary Spotlight Real Estate Edition
  Thinking about buying or selling a home? Don’t miss Monday’s edition—packed with the latest Cary property sales, and hyperlocal market insights.

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.

Your Guide to the Best Businesses in Cary
🧭Visit Cary Spotlight Thrive❤️

☕Buy a Coffee for Cary Spotlight

• Hey, neighbor! If you enjoyed this newsletter and want to share some appreciation, then consider adding to the coffee fund. We run on coffee. 😄

🎉 Weekend Events Preview (Top Picks)

Outdoor events may be changed due to weather, so click the links to see latest event information. Here are a few great ways to enjoy the weekend:

• Today: Cary Farmers Market 8AM-12PM
• Today: Juneteenth Celebration 3PM-9PM
• Sunday: Pollinator Week Bioblitz 9AM-8PM
• Sunday: Pride History Harvest 2PM-4PM
• Monday: Stretch and Refresh 10AM-11AM

To save space in your inbox, we’ve moved the full list of events online — now you can plan ahead with access to this week and next! See Full 2-Week Calendar