Daily editionThursday, October 8th, 2026
Good morning, Durham.
The 5AM Durham Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of October.
Business
Dampf Good BBQ has canceled plans to open its brick-and-mortar restaurant in downtown Durham after community backlash over the owner’s past social media posts, keeping its operations in Cary.
The decision was announced Wednesday and underscores the need for businesses to align with local values.
Spectacular MagazineRead more
Culture
Local theaters in Durham show a varied film lineup this month, featuring Nathan Fielder’s mystery documentary You Can See Everything, Mahershala Ali’s action drama Your Mother Your Mother, and Laika’s animated adventure Wildwood (all playing during October).
INDY WeekRead more
Education
Bennett College Alumnae of Durham will honor four women in journalism, research, education and community advocacy at the 36th Annual White Breakfast Scholarship Fundraiser scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5 at 9:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree Raleigh Durham Research Triangle Park Hotel in Durham + guests pay 60 dollars to support scholarship programs.
Spectacular MagazineRead more
Durham’s IMA is launching the William McCoy Jr. Lecture Series to honor the late minister with Rev. Reginald High, PhD discussing preaching in a pluralistic society.
The sessions will take place at Mount Vernon Baptist Church on Sunday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. and Monday, Oct. 19 at noon.
Spectacular MagazineRead more
WRAL recognized David Fernandes from Green Level High School as Teacher of the Week on Oct. 7, 2026 + his recognition celebrates his strong impact on students.
WRALRead more
Health
Dr. Rodney Jenkins (Durham County Public Health Director since 2020) received the Distinguished Service Award from NCPHA at its Fall Educational Conference, highlighting his long record of service in local public health.
He has also earned previous honors including the Ronald Levine Public Health Award and Reynold’s Achievement Award.
Durham County GovernmentRead more
Sports
On Oct. 7 in Charlotte, Jon Scheyer previewed his team's upcoming season at ACC Tipoff, calling the squad the most experienced and deepest as they prepare for new challenges.
WRALRead more