🧭 Here’s what’s in today’s issue:

• 🧠 Trivia Challenge: Spotlight Hook
• 📰 News: Cary’s Fire Department Stresses Holiday Fire Prevention
• 📰 News: Cary Plans Traffic Upgrades Near Panther Creek High
• 📰 Scrollback: Cary Residents Reflect on Time in Town
• 😄 Meme of the Day – Just for laughs
• ❤️ Some stories are worth revisiting: Show Your Support
• 📅 Events: Weekend Events Preview (Top Picks)

👉 Browse the highlights. Click your favorites.

Did someone forward you our Cary newsletter? Then subscribe here

Question: Despite its large population, why is Cary still officially called a “town” and not a “city”?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

The Featured Event

Visibility that turns moments into momentum. Your event deserves more than a post lost in the feed. For $25, get priority placement in Cary Spotlight — complete with your image and event link.

Click the button below to feature your event and make it impossible to miss.

If you have questions email: [email protected]

Cary’s Fire Department Stresses Holiday Fire Prevention

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7fmYEK6CN0

The Town of Cary is spotlighting fire safety in honor of Fire Prevention Week, observed from October 5 to 11. Council member Sura Bansang and Fire Chief Mike Cooper are encouraging residents to take preventive steps at home, particularly as the holiday season brings increased fire risk from cooking and open flames. Key recommendations include checking smoke alarms, keeping candles away from flammable items, and considering safer alternatives like LED candles.

A national campaign theme for 2025, “Charge Into Fire Safety,” underscores the importance of safely using lithium-ion batteries commonly found in household electronics and tools. Misuse or improper disposal of these batteries can cause overheating or fires, making awareness especially crucial.

Cary’s fire department is recognized for its exceptional service, holding both a Class 1 ISO rating and international accreditation. These honors reflect its high standards in fire suppression, emergency medical response, and community education. All Cary firefighters are also trained EMTs, providing medical care before ambulances arrive.

Residents are encouraged to take time this month to test smoke alarms, update their home escape plans, and follow safety tips to ensure a secure environment for their families and neighbors.

Just curious…

Be honest — where do you stand on home fire safety?

Cary Plans Traffic Upgrades Near Panther Creek High

Panther Creek High School in Cary has long dealt with traffic congestion and safety issues at its main entrance on McCrimmon Parkway. With more than 2,000 students accessing the campus through the same point each day, the lack of a traffic signal or nearby crosswalk has led to frequent backups and accidents—typically around three per year, according to crash reports.

Recent incidents, such as a student being hit by a car while crossing without a designated crosswalk, have highlighted the need for immediate improvements. Students and parents have voiced concerns about the delays and risks, especially when buses and cars queue at peak hours.

In response, the Town of Cary has announced a set of traffic upgrades. These include a new traffic signal at the eastern entrance, a midblock crosswalk with safety features like flashing beacons and a median island, and changes to the western driveway median to improve sight lines.

Although construction is not expected to begin for at least another year, the proposed changes mark a significant step toward improving safety and managing traffic flow around the high school. Read Full Story

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

Cary Residents Reflect on Time in Town

As we scrolled back through past polls, we revisited the question “How long have you lived in Cary, NC?”—and the results offer a clear snapshot of a town shaped by both deeply rooted residents and a steady stream of newcomers.

More than 2,400 readers responded. The largest group—about 21 percent—have lived in Cary for 20 to 29 years. Nearly as many, just under 20 percent, reported living here for 10 to 19 years, while 17 percent have called Cary home for 30 to 39 years. On the other end of the spectrum, 13 percent said they’ve lived in town for 1 to 4 years, and another 5 percent have arrived within the past year.

The comments revealed a mix of pride, nostalgia, and concern. One longtime resident said, “Apartments are taking over. We need homes, not just buildings.” Another noted, “Stop cutting down the trees!” Others expressed appreciation for the town’s quality of life: “Love it here! The trails, parks, and community events are fantastic.” A family who moved in 2005 said it was the “best decision ever.”

Some respondents shared a more emotional connection. “I was born and raised in Cary. It will always be home,” one wrote. Even those who have moved away remain engaged; a lifelong resident who has relocated to the coast said Cary Spotlight helps them stay connected to their hometown.

The responses suggest that future stories exploring Cary’s history, growth challenges, and local highlights could strike a meaningful chord with readers across all demographics.

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.

🎉 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:

• Saturday: Cary Farmers Market 8AM-Noon
• Saturday: Taste of China 11AM-5PM
• Saturday: Concert Singers of Cary: Something Wicked This Way Comes 8PM-9:30PM
• Sunday: NC Courage vs Gotham FC 3PM
• Sunday: Legacy of Jazz: Here Comes the Sun 3:30PM-5PM
• 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