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🌱 Patch AM: Why did thieves target a $1 million HVAC system at Glenn Elementary?

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Coffee in hand, Durham? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why did thieves target a $1 million HVAC system at Glenn Elementary?
  • How did Durham schools finally eliminate every F grade this year?
  • How Duke's new dean of students could shape campus life

Also on today's calendar: Ian McMahan Live Music and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Why did the chicken go to the gym? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Friday: Near-record temperatures, with a high of 99 and low of 73 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Saturday: Hot and humid; a p.m. t-storm, temps: high: 93, low: 69.
  • Sunday: Decreasing clouds; not as hot, with a high of 82 and low of 63 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Arrest made after 2 Durham County HVAC unit thefts, including a massive system at elementary school: Officials (cbs17.com) — Durham residents should know a local man has been arrested after a massive HVAC system was stolen from Glenn Elementary School, causing damage and replacement costs estimated at more than $1 million. Deputies say he's also linked to another AC theft in Research Triangle Park and warn that additional suspects in these Durham County HVAC thefts are still being sought.
   

2. Lowe's Grove Middle moves out of low-performing status as no Durham schools get 'F' grade (cbs17.com) — Durham families can take heart that, for the first time in more than a decade, no public school in the district received an F grade in the latest state accountability report. Lowe's Grove Middle, long labeled low-performing, has now moved out of that status after improving proficiency, reducing suspensions, and strengthening support systems for students.
   

3. Dawna Jones (theeduledger.com) — A key student affairs leadership role at Duke University in Durham has been filled by longtime administrator Dr. Dawna Jones, now associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students. With extensive experience at Duke and other North Carolina universities, she will oversee student support and identity-focused programs that shape campus life right in your backyard.
   

4. Report: Duke, large Durham employers must tap growing prosperity to address school funding crisis (facingsouth.org) — A new report warns that Durham Public Schools face chronic underfunding, crumbling buildings, and staff shortages even as Duke and other major local employers post huge profits. Researchers urge these institutions and county leaders to boost voluntary investments and reform tax policies so Durham students, educators, and low-income homeowners aren't left behind.
   

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Missing cat named Zeke, extremely friendly.
    Last seen in Ashton Hall on Sunday. Please reach out with any information. Thank you! (Nextdoor Ashton Hall)
  • Can you find the copperhead?!
    My husband took this photo while running at Buckquarter creek trail at the end River state park. This snake has been hiding out here for weeks- park… (Nextdoor Russell)
  • Family Dollar posted a job opening for Assistant Manager II in Durham. Apply here.
  • Cozymeal, Inc. posted a job opening for Chef/Culinary Instructor, Durham, NC in Durham. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Durham here.

Ok Durham! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: He was working on his pecks (pecs). (Thank you W F C. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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