2024 Hometown Spirit Award Finalists
Brent Brandow
Brent Brandow, a Cary native, is dedicated and passionate about serving the community. Over the past six years, Brandow has made significant contributions as a member and Chair of the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Board, leading impactful initiatives like the Play It Forward Scholarship Program. He has been a longstanding volunteer at Cary’s festivals, helping them run smoothly and engaging attendees. His community commitment extends to coaching youth basketball for over 20 years through various local programs, shaping both the skills and character of countless young athletes. As President of the Cary High School Imp Club and announcer for the Miracle League of the Triangle, Bandow's leadership supports athletic programs and brings joy to athletes with special needs. His role as an ambassador team lead for the Cary Chamber underscores his drive to improve his community, while his professional work in disaster mitigation reflects his dedication to helping others. Known for his warmth and humor, Brandow makes everyone feel valued and welcomed, embodying selflessness and community spirit.
Dan Pike
Dan Pike is a steadfast volunteer and a leader in the community for over two decades. Pike has been an influential volunteer, notably serving as President of the Cary Downtown Farmers Market, where he oversees operations, supports vendors, and fosters a welcoming environment. Under his leadership, the Cary Downtown Farmers Market has implemented impactful programs like the SNAP-approved market and the Produce 2 Pantry partnership with Dorcas Food Pantry. Pike has been a dedicated announcer for the last 20 years for the Cary High School baseball team and serves as a host parent for USA Baseball players during major events. His involvement volunteering for town events, including festivals and celebrations, such as the Lazy Daze and Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festivals, shows his commitment to fostering community and ensuring success. His kindness extends to his neighborhood, where he helps others in times of need, embodying the true spirit of a selfless, caring neighbor. Pike's tireless service, humility, and warmth make him an invaluable asset to Cary.
Sallie Jones
Miss Sallie Jones, a 100-year-old resident of Cary, embodies dedication to preserving the town’s African American history. Descended from some of Cary’s earliest African American families, Sallie discovered after she returned home to Cary after her retirement that the graves of her ancestors had been lost to development. Driven by this realization, she made it her mission to protect the cemetery at Cary First Christian Church, which dated back to 1868 but faced neglect and development threats. Jones led efforts to survey the cemetery, hired archaeologists who identified over 160 unmarked graves, and tirelessly researched records to name those buried there. Jones registered the site the State of North Carolina making it the first cemetery to be designated as a historic landmark in Cary and in all of Wake County. Several years ago, Cary First Christian Church partnered with the Town of Cary and the Friends of the Page-Walker to produce a walking tour brochure that recounts the lives and impact of members of the African American Community in Cary. Her commitment over 25 years secured the cemetery’s recognition as Cary’s first historic landmark, ensuring its legacy and highlighting her invaluable contribution to the community’s heritage.
The 2024 Hometown Spirit Award winner will be announced during a reception and program honoring this year's finalists on November 18, 2024.
