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Get signed up for our newsletter! Here’s what happened around South Durham this week:
🎓 Durham Schools Reaffirm Safety After Minneapolis Tragedy
After a school shooting in Minneapolis killed two and injured 17 (mostly children), Durham Public Schools leaders assured families that safety remains a top priority. DPS outlined existing safety protocols, including building access controls, drills, and partnerships with local law enforcement. Tools like See Something, Say Something and Text-a-Tip are encouraged to keep schools safe.
🥩 Texas Roadhouse Plans to Replace Patterson Place Applebee’s
A site plan has been submitted to demolish the former Applebee’s on McFarland Drive and build a new Texas Roadhouse – Durham’s second location. The original North Pointe spot remains open. No official timeline has been announced yet.
⛽ SoDu Fuel Tracker: Prices Climb Ahead of Labor Day
Gas prices rose by 20¢ over the past week, with the lowest price moving from $2.52 to $2.72. Sam’s Club, Murphy Express (MLK), and Sheetz on Yunus Rd. remain the top low-price leaders, but the price gap is narrowing across South Durham. Expect a stable range around $2.85–$2.90 moving into September.
📺 Southpoint Access Office Hours – Author & Candidate Visit
Wes Platt hosted a live chat featuring:
- Richard Dansky, local author launching The Video Game Writer’s Guide to Surviving in an Industry That Hates You.
- Matt Kopac, Planning Commission member running for Durham City Council, Ward 1. Primary election is Oct. 7.
🚨 Durham Arrest Tied to National Human Trafficking Case
Federal agents arrested David Taylor, a self-proclaimed religious leader, in Durham on charges of forced labor and money laundering. Taylor allegedly led a nationwide trafficking scheme through his ministries. Victims reported coercion, abuse, and exploitation. Authorities urge anyone with info to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
🧺 SoDu Grocery Basket: Wegmans Edges Out Walmart
This week’s lowest grocery basket total was found at Wegmans ($55.29), narrowly beating Walmart ($55.86) and Food Lion ($56.25). The South Durham average rose to $69.85, up from last week.
🚗 SoDu Parenting Pickle: Potty Breaks in the Carpool Line?
A local parent asked what to do when a younger child has to pee during carpool pickup. The SoDu Pickle Picker recommends keeping a portable potty kit in the car – and reminds us all to show grace when little emergencies happen.
👮 South Durham Crime Watch: Aug. 17–23 Highlights
This week’s crime data points to increased vehicle-related thefts and property crimes, especially near:
- Fayetteville Road
- NC Highway 54
- Page Road
Residents and property managers are encouraged to stay alert, secure belongings, and review lighting/surveillance setups.
📣 Neighborhood Spotlight Shout-Outs Now Open
Want to celebrate a birthday, welcome a neighbor, or share yard sale news? You can now sponsor a day of the newsletter for just $25. Includes a message and optional photo – perfect for giving a little love to your street or school.
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Author: Wes Platt
Lead storyteller. Game designer and journalist. Recovering Floridian. Email: southpointaccessnews@gmail.com.
