📫 19-Year-Old Revolutionized Antiviral Drug | Tech Glitch Disrupts Testing for 120,000 NC Students | Wake CO Lowest Unemployment Rates | 1 Cent Burgers📍

Read Online

Hello, friends!

Rainy Week Reminder 🌧️
We’ve had quite the soggy stretch this week! Just a little note to remind you to stay warm, dry, and cozy as the rain rolls through. It’s the perfect time for a good book, a hot cup of something comforting, and maybe a little extra rest. Take care of yourself—and don’t forget your umbrella! Oh, and we need those referrals!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

📍Just a quick reminder. We need your referrals. It means the world to us!📍

Here is the referral button so you can refer all your friends!

📧 [email protected] 

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." – Winston Churchill

If you love fashion and style, join us at “Get Boujee.” If you love great deals and savings but love looking your best and want to dress in the latest trends with a lot of class thrown in, join us on Facebook at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Need decorating ideas but don’t want to have to run all over to find those perfect items? Join us on FB at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Join us at “Get Boujee” where fashion and Great Value Come Together!

___________________________

Hot Deals From Boujee🌶️

➡️Discover the magic of adventure and imagination with Dr. Suezz Oh The Places You’ll Would Go — a vibrant, fun-filled children's book that inspires young readers to dream big and explore the world around them. Perfect for sparking creativity and confidence, this delightful story invites kids to embark on unforgettable journeys with every turn of the page! 🌶️Buy Now-At Discount

➡️You’ll never need a wall plug-in again! Brightown E26 Rechargeable Light Bulb with Remote & Timer – Battery Backup for Sconces & Lamps, Magnetic, Fits Non-Hardwired Fixtures, 3 Color Temps + 9 RGB Colors, Dimmable, 2-Pack 🌶️Buy Now

➡️Get your favorite Crocs now at an unbeatable discount — comfort and style have never been more affordable! Hurry, limited stock available to step into all-day ease without breaking the bank.🌶️Buy Now-At Discount

➡️Elevate your casual look with this Women's Floral Print Puff Sleeve Kimono Cardigan — a lightweight, loose-fitting cover-up perfect for adding a touch of effortless style. Its flowy design and delicate print make it a versatile wardrobe must-have for any season! 🌶️Buy Now-At Discount

➡️Rainy Week? Make It a Masterpiece! ☔ Stay dry and stylish with our Auto Open Close Umbrella featuring Monet’s Iris Garden at Giverny. Compact, elegant, and perfect for rain or shine—this folding travel umbrella turns gloomy days into gallery moments. 🌶️Buy Now

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why don’t rain clouds ever get invited to parties?
Because they’re always throwing shade and bringing a downpour! ☔😄😄

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

🌿 Did you know?
North Carolina’s diverse forests—ranging from the Appalachian Mountains to the Piedmont and coastal regions—are home to over 3,000 species of wild mushrooms, with dozens of them being edible!

📍On This Day in History📍

• 1903 – Bob Hope’s birthday - British-American entertainer and comedian

• 1917 – John F. Kennedy’s birthday, 35th President of the United States

📍Word of the Day📍

Improve your vocabulary!

_{Read Online}

Wild Mushrooms of Wake County: Nature’s Hidden Harvest

North Carolina’s natural beauty runs deep—and sometimes, it hides right under your feet. Wake County, with its diverse woodlands, moderate climate, and rich soils, is home to a surprising variety of wild mushrooms, including several edible species prized by foragers and chefs alike.

Experts estimate that hundreds of wild mushroom species can be found throughout Wake County and the surrounding Piedmont region. While not all are edible—and some are downright dangerous—dozens are safe and delicious when harvested properly.

✅ Edible Mushrooms Commonly Found in Wake County

Here are a few favorites you might encounter in the right season:

• Chanterelles (Cantharellus spp.)
  Golden-orange and trumpet-shaped, these mushrooms have a fruity aroma and appear after summer rains, typically June to September. Found near oaks and beech trees.

• Morels (Morchella spp.)
  These springtime delicacies are hollow, cone-shaped, and highly sought after. They grow around old apple orchards and hardwood forests—often in March and April.

• Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus spp.)
  Bright orange and shelf-like, these mushrooms taste like—you guessed it—chicken! Usually found on dead or dying trees from late summer to early fall.

• Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus)
  Pale gray or white, they grow in layered clusters on fallen logs and are one of the safest and easiest to identify. Pickable year-round, but most common in spring and fall.

• Lobster Mushrooms (Hypomyces lactifluorum)
  These aren’t true mushrooms, but rather a fungus that parasitizes other fungi. Their bright red-orange color and seafood-like taste make them a unique culinary treat.

⚠️ Important Safety Tips

Before you head into the woods with a basket in hand, remember:

• Never eat a wild mushroom unless you’re 100% certain of its identity. Some poisonous mushrooms closely resemble edible ones.

• Use a reliable field guide or mushroom ID app, and consider joining a local group like the North Carolina Mushroom Club.

• Harvest responsibly. Take only what you’ll use and leave some for nature to regenerate.

📅 When to Go Mushroom Hunting

In Wake County, spring through early fall offers the best mushroom hunting opportunities. Late May through September is ideal for many edible varieties, especially after a period of rain followed by warm days.

🌳 Want to Learn More?

Consider attending local foraging walks or nature programs hosted by organizations like Wake County Parks, Raleigh Nature Preserves, or the NC Mushroom Club. These outings are educational, family-friendly, and a great way to connect with nature safely.

Fun Fact:
Some chefs in the Triangle region feature locally foraged mushrooms in seasonal menus—so keep an eye out at your favorite farm-to-table spots!

➡️ For more travel inspiration in NC, follow our spotlight on another hidden gem in North Carolina!

The Art of Staging:

How to Prepare Your Home to Sell Quickly and for Top Dollar

When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter more than ever. In today’s competitive real estate market, staging your home is a powerful strategy that can significantly enhance its appeal, attract more buyers, and ultimately lead to a faster sale at a better price.

Home staging involves strategically arranging and decorating your home to highlight its best features and create an inviting, neutral environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. It’s about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a “move-in ready” dream.

Statistics show that staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices compared to those left empty or cluttered. When buyers tour a staged home, they can better understand the potential of each room, which helps them form an emotional connection — a key factor in the buying decision.

Key Tips for Effective Staging

1. Declutter and Depersonalize:
   Clear away personal photos, memorabilia, and excessive furniture. A tidy, open space lets buyers imagine their own belongings in the home.

2. Deep Clean and Repair:
   Sparkling clean surfaces and fixed minor repairs (like leaky faucets or cracked tiles) reassure buyers that the home has been well cared for.

3. Maximize Light and Space:
   Open curtains to let in natural light and use neutral colors to create an airy feel. Rearranging furniture to create spacious walkways helps rooms appear larger.

4. Highlight Key Features:
   Emphasize architectural details such as fireplaces, built-in shelving, or beautiful views with tasteful décor that draws attention without overwhelming.

5. Add Inviting Touches:
   Fresh flowers, cozy throw pillows, and a well-set dining table can evoke a sense of comfort and lifestyle that resonates with buyers.

While DIY staging can be effective, hiring a professional stager brings expertise and an objective eye that can transform your home into a buyer’s dream. Many real estate agents offer staging services or can recommend trusted professionals.

Staging your home is an investment that can pay off handsomely. By presenting your property in the best possible light, you’re not just selling a house — you’re selling a vision of the lifestyle buyers aspire to. With thoughtful staging, your home can stand out, attract more offers, and help you achieve your selling goals faster.

_{Read Online}

Teens Charged After Street Racing Crash Injures Wake Deputy

Two teenagers are facing charges after a high-speed street race ended in a crash that injured a Wake County sheriff’s deputy.

Authorities say the teens were racing when one lost control and hit the deputy’s patrol vehicle. The deputy was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.

The teens are charged with reckless driving and felony assault with a deadly weapon. Officials are urging parents to talk with teens about the dangers of reckless driving.

The investigation is ongoing. Read More

Wake County Has the Lowest Unemployment Rates in NC

Wake County continues to demonstrate economic resilience, maintaining one of the lowest unemployment rates in North Carolina. As of April 2025, the county's unemployment rate stands at 3.0%, a slight decrease from 3.2% in March, and below the statewide average of 3.4%.

This low unemployment rate reflects the strength of Wake County's diverse economy, which includes sectors such as technology, education, and healthcare. The presence of the Research Triangle Park and institutions like North Carolina State University contribute to a robust job market. Read More

Tech Glitch Disrupts Testing for 120,000 NC Students

A major online outage on May 28 temporarily halted standardized testing for about 120,000 North Carolina students. The NCTest platform went down for roughly 40 minutes, affecting both end-of-grade and end-of-course exams across the state.

In response, schools are working closely with the Department of Public Instruction to reschedule tests, increase technical support, and keep families informed.

Officials are investigating the cause and taking steps to prevent future disruptions, highlighting the need for stronger digital infrastructure in schools. Read More

19-Year-Old from Des Moines Revolutionized Antiviral Drug Production — May 27, 2025

At just 19 years old, Chang Liu of Des Moines, Iowa, has captured national attention by winning $100,000 for inventing an innovative, cost-effective method to manufacture antiviral drugs using corn husks — a solution that is faster, cheaper, and more sustainable than traditional processes.

Growing up in a farming community surrounded by vast fields of corn, Chang was inspired by the abundance of agricultural waste, particularly corn husks. Driven by a passion to turn this overlooked resource into something impactful, he developed a groundbreaking technique that utilizes the natural cellulose in corn husks to speed up the production of antiviral medications.

Chang’s invention promises to not only make antiviral drugs more affordable and accessible but also to reduce waste and promote environmentally friendly pharmaceutical manufacturing. His achievement, recognized at the National Young Innovators Competition on May 27, 2025, is a testament to the power of youthful creativity and determination.

This remarkable success story highlights that innovation knows no age limit. Chang hopes his work encourages other young inventors to explore solutions within their own communities and reminds us all that big ideas can come from humble beginnings.

“Believe in the beauty of our future, for it is shaped by the hope and dreams we nurture today.”

_{Read Online}

Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo Rolls In June 28

Get ready, foodies! The Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo is back on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 12–6 PM on Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh. With over 50 local food trucks serving everything from BBQ and tacos to desserts and vegan fare, there’s something for every craving.

Enjoy live music, local vendors, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere—all with free admission!

Event Details:
📍 Fayetteville Street, Downtown Raleigh
🕛 12:00–6:00 PM
🎟️ Free to attend

Full details here: Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo

May 29th Events

Be sure to click below to review our “Events Calendar” with over 100 events featured.

Sometimes, email servers can cut off parts of the newsletter, making it tricky to enjoy the full experience. For the best reading experience and to catch all the details, click here to view the entire newsletter!

👇👇👇

Discover Village Deli & Grill

Wake Forest’s Cozy Culinary Gem 🍽️

If you’re looking for a local spot that feels like a home away from home, Village Deli & Grill in Wake Forest is the place to be. Since 1996, this charming eatery has been serving up a delicious mix of classic comfort foods and fresh, flavorful dishes — all in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What makes Village Deli so special? It’s their commitment to quality, community, and great taste. From hearty sandwiches like the famous Turkey & Bacon Club to lighter options like their crisp Mediterranean Salad, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss their fan-favorite Avocado Turkey Brie Panini — a perfect blend of creamy brie, ripe avocado, and tender turkey, pressed to perfection.

Village Deli & Grill also takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting area farmers and sustainable practices. This means your meal isn’t just tasty — it’s a nod to our community and environment.

Open from 11 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and Saturdays (with shorter hours on Sunday), it’s easy to stop by for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed weekend bite. Whether you dine in, carry out, or order online, Village Deli offers a welcoming spot for Wake Forest residents and visitors alike.

Next time you’re craving good food and great vibes, make your way to Village Deli & Grill — where every meal feels like a neighborhood gathering.

Comment by Julie M.

“My husband and I eat there once a week and love it!”

……………………….👇👇👇………………..……

If you have a restaurant you would like us to review and possibly feature, send us a suggestion. We would love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected] If we choose to review the restaurant, they will be featured for a week FREE of charge in our newsletter.
 

If your business event, or restaurant, is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

We love helping you save time and money! Check out today’s local "Store Ads" section from your phone to find the best deals before you head out to the store!

We've worked diligently to curate this list of exceptional savings for you. Please note that offers may vary by location and are subject to change. We recommend contacting your local store to confirm the specific deals available.

If you find a GREAT Senior discount that is not listed, please let us know!

• Hero or Section Banners

• Local Business Spotlights

• Event Spotlights

• Expert Tips

• Business Directory

• Website Banners

• Independant Mailers

• And more!

  👇👇👇

  👉 Get Information 👈