📘Local Kids Changing the World (One Compassion Mission at a Time)

Hey Cary, happy Friday.

This weekend is a busy one in our town. There are markets, sports events, comedy shows, pride festivals, and everything in between.

There’s also a wonderful charity in today’s issue of Cary Digest— don’t miss it!

Anyway, here’s what you can expect in Today’s issue:

• TST kicks off

• ADU Rules Just Got Easier

• Small Hands Big Hearts

• Alphabet Soup Pride Market

— Jake from Cary Digest

News

International Fans Descend on Cary for TST Soccer Spectacle

Soccer fans from across the globe have converged on Cary, N.C., transforming WakeMed Soccer Park into an international hub during The Soccer Tournament (TST). On the event's second day, supporters from as far away as England and Bosnia and Herzegovina shared their journeys and enthusiasm for the game.

Glenn Peters, a dedicated fan of Plymouth Argyle, recounted his extensive 18-hour trip from Polperro, England, involving multiple drives and flights. Celebrating his 70th birthday at TST, Peters humorously noted, "I've been supporting Argyle since I was five—well, since I was zero really."

Adis Mujic, traveling from Sarajevo, Bosnia, highlighted the tournament’s appeal. Attending for the second consecutive year, Mujic praised the event, calling its organization "very, very nice" and predicting significant growth in the future.

TST's global draw is impressive, boasting teams from 13 countries and players representing 33 different nations. The opening day alone saw an impressive attendance of 11,394 fans, underscoring the tournament's burgeoning popularity.

Thursday marked the start of the women's tournament, adding to the excitement and continuing the week's vibrant soccer festivities.

Hello Simplified Professional Organizing!

Unpacked. Organized. Completely Settled.

Stressed about moving in? Imagine your home fully unpacked, organized, and ready to use—closets, kitchen, bathrooms and all. No endless boxes. No chaos. Just a calm, functional space that feels like home from day one.

That’s what Hello Simplified does best.

Based in the Triangle and local to Cary, they’re a professional organizing team that helps you skip the stress and start fresh. Their unpacking and home setup service is more than just putting things away—they create real systems that work for your lifestyle.

Here’s how they help:

• Unpacking & Home Setup – Every box, every drawer. Their team handles it all while creating order from the start.

• Decluttering Along the Way – Not everything needs to stay. They’ll help you let go of what no longer serves you.

• Organizing Systems that Last – From tidy closets to functional pantries, they’ll build smart systems you can maintain.

Whether you're relocating, downsizing, or just too busy to unpack yourself, Hello Simplified makes your new home feel done.

Want to move in to calm, not chaos?
Download their free guide and see how unpacking with a professional can change everything.

Big News for Homeowners: ADU Rules Just Got Easier

Cary has officially loosened restrictions on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), giving homeowners more flexibility to add in-law suites, backyard cottages, or garage apartments.

Whether you want space for aging parents, adult kids, or just more multigenerational living options, ADUs are now easier to build. The move supports goals from the Cary Housing Plan and Imagine Cary Community Plan — part of the town’s commitment to expanding housing options for a growing, diverse community.

Want to build one? Detached, attached, or converted spaces are all on the table. Just make sure you check state building codes and your HOA rules.

🔗 Explore the ADU guide: Citizen Guide to Accessory Dwelling Units
🏠 More info: housing.carync.gov

Charity of the Week: Small Hands Big Hearts United

Based in Cary, Small Hands Big Hearts United (SHBHU) is a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing children's natural compassion through accessible, youth-led volunteer opportunities. Founded in 2013 by Anita and Isabella Pease, SHBHU empowers children up to age 17 to lead “Compassion Missions” that address needs both locally and globally.

These missions range from food drives and environmental cleanups to supporting animal shelters and aiding international communities. SHBHU partners with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House, and the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina to provide meaningful service experiences for young volunteers.

Membership is free, and the organization emphasizes inclusivity by removing logistical, financial, and age-related barriers to volunteering. Children are encouraged to take initiative, fostering leadership and a lifelong commitment to community service.

To learn more or get involved, visit shbhu.org

Town Updates

Want to Help Shape Cary?

Cary is looking for passionate residents to serve on its boards, committees, and commissions — and applications are open now through June 30.

From planning and zoning to parks and cultural resources, these groups help guide important decisions in town. Most terms last three years, and all positions are appointed by the Cary Town Council.

If you’re ready to make a difference, check out the open opportunities and apply online.

🔗 Apply now: Boards, Commissions, & Committees
📅 Deadline: June 30
📞 Questions? Call (919) 319-4508

Community Events

🌈Alphabet Soup Pride Market

Time: Friday, June 6, 5:00–9:00 PM
Location: Downtown Cary Park, 327 S. Academy St, Cary, NC

Join The Night Market Company for the second annual Alphabet Soup Pride Market, a vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ creativity, resilience, and community. This isn’t just a market — it’s a full-on celebration featuring queer-owned businesses, artists, musicians, and allies coming together in the heart of Cary.

Expect giveaways (including a chance to win tickets to see Rainbow Kitten Surprise 🎟️), exclusive vendor perks, and the debut performance of the Bach 2 Rock Staff Band. Everyone is welcome. Come for the community, stay for the celebration.

Things to Do This Weekend

Friday

Pride Cary Night Market
Time: Fri, June 6, 5:00–9:00 PM
Location: Downtown Cary Park, 327 S. Academy St, Cary, NC
Description: Open-air market celebrating Pride Month with LGBTQ+ vendors, live music, and food
Link: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_pride-cary-night-market

Bands, Bites & Boats
Time: Fri, June 6, 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Bond Park Boathouse, 801 High House Rd, Cary, NC
Description: Free lakeside event featuring live music, food trucks, and boating opportunities.
Link: https://www.carync.gov/recreation-enjoyment/events/special-events/bands-bites-and-boats-at-bond-park

Performances at the Page: Jamrock
Time: Fri, June 6, 7:00 PM
Location: Page-Walker Arts & History Center, 119 Ambassador Loop, Cary, NC
Description: Outdoor reggae concert with live music by Jamrock and food truck available.
Link: https://www.visitraleigh.com/event/performances-at-the-page:-jamrock/98165/

The Soccer Tournament (TST)
Time: June 6–8, All day event
Location: WakeMed Soccer Park, 101 Soccer Park Dr, Cary, NC
Description: International soccer tournament featuring professional teams and celebrities.
Link: https://tst7v7.com/

NC Symphony Summerfest – "A Summer Night in France"
Time: Fri, June 6, 8:00 PM (doors 6:30 PM)
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
Description: Evening of French classical favorites performed under the stars.
Link: https://www.boothamphitheatre.com/events/detail/a-summer-night-in-france

Steph Tolev – Stand-Up Comedy
Time: Fri, June 6, 7:00 PM & 9:15 PM
Location: Raleigh Improv, 1224 Parkside Main St, Cary, NC
Description: Bold, high-energy comedy performance by Steph Tolev.
Link: https://improv.com/raleigh/comic/steph+tolev/

Live Music: Irresistible Groove
Time: Fri, June 6, 9:30 PM
Location: Back Then Bar & Grill, 107 Edinburgh South Dr, Cary, NC
Description: High-energy, horn-driven party band performing live hits.
Link: https://backthenbar.com/cary-macgregor-village-back-then-bar-and-grill-events

Saturday

Cary Downtown Farmers Market
Time: Sat, June 7, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM
Location: 200 E Park St, Cary, NC
Description: Local farmers market with fresh produce, meats, and crafts.
Link: https://www.caryfarmersmarket.com

Graceful Expressions: "Beauty and the Beast" Dance Recital
Time: Sat, June 7, multiple shows (10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM)
Location: Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave, Cary, NC
Description: Youth dance company performance inspired by the beloved fairy tale.
Link: https://www.visitraleigh.com/event/beauty-and-the-beast/98164/

Film Class: Basic Feature Writing (Day 1)
Time: Sat, June 7, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Workshop on writing film scripts covering structure and dialogue.
Link: https://www.visitraleigh.com/event/film-class:-basic-feature-writing/97159/

NC Symphony Summerfest – "Disco Fever"
Time: Sat, June 7, 8:00 PM (doors 6:30 PM)
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
Description: Symphonic disco hits performed by the North Carolina Symphony.
Link: https://www.boothamphitheatre.com/events/detail/disco-fever-1

Live Music: Heather Maloney with Abigail Dowd
Time: Sat, June 7, 7:30 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Intimate performance by folk singer-songwriter Heather Maloney.
Link: https://thecarytheater.com/event/live-music-heather-maloney-abigail-dowd-opens/the-cary/cary/

American Dart League – Blind Draw
Time: Sat, June 7, 1:00 PM (registration 12:30 PM)
Location: Back Then Bar & Grill, 107 Edinburgh South Dr, Cary, NC
Description: Friendly, public darts tournament open to all skill levels.
Link: https://backthenbar.com/cary-macgregor-village-back-then-bar-and-grill-events

Live Music: 8 Track Minds – ’70s Dance Party
Time: Sat, June 7, 9:30 PM
Location: Back Then Bar & Grill, 107 Edinburgh South Dr, Cary, NC
Description: Retro band performing iconic hits from the '70s.
Link: https://backthenbar.com/cary-macgregor-village-back-then-bar-and-grill-events

Sunday

Film Class: Basic Feature Writing (Day 2)
Time: Sun, June 8, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Second day of intensive screenwriting workshop.
Link: https://www.visitraleigh.com/event/film-class:-basic-feature-writing/97159/

Summer Family Series – Wicked Sing-Along (PG)
Time: Sun, June 8, 12:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Family-friendly sing-along screening of "Wicked."
Link: https://thecarytheater.com/whatshappeningposts/summer-family-series/

The Beyond Belief Comedy Tour (Tim Ross & Jamie Kilstein)
Time: Sun, June 8, 6:00 PM
Location: Raleigh Improv, 1224 Parkside Main St, Cary, NC
Description: Comedians Tim Ross and Jamie Kilstein perform sharp, irreverent comedy.
Link: https://improv.com/raleigh/event/the+beyond+belief+comedy+tour+with+tim+ross+%26+jamie+kilstein/14352833/

Oak City Swing & Line Dance Night
Time: Sun, June 8, Lesson 7:00–9:00 PM, Social dance 9:00 PM–midnight
Location: Back Then Bar & Grill, 107 Edinburgh South Dr, Cary, NC
Description: Swing dance lessons followed by a social line-dancing session.
Link: https://backthenbar.com/cary-macgregor-village-back-then-bar-and-grill-events

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