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📫Tomato Recall In NC | Head On Crash With Semi | Local Fundraising | Traffic Alert | Fires Burning📍

Your Wake County News & Events newsletter - The digital way to stay informed on all that is Wake County! Thank you for subscribing!

🌞 Good morning, friends!

As we enter National Teacher Appreciation Week, we take a moment to honor the dedicated educators who shape the future of our communities. From inspiring young minds to guiding the next generation of leaders, teachers play an essential role in fostering growth, creativity, and critical thinking.

This week, we express our gratitude for their tireless work, both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers not only impart knowledge but also offer support, encouragement, and a caring presence in the lives of their students.

Let’s all take the time to say "thank you" to the teachers in our lives—whether it's through a kind word, a note of appreciation, or simply acknowledging their hard work. Their impact is immeasurable, and they truly deserve recognition not just this week, but every day.

Here’s to the teachers who inspire, empower, and make a difference—thank you for everything you do!

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

PS; Be sure to check out our newly updated “Seniors Early Bird Specials” section. We just updated this section with over 200 locations!

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

Many times your email provider will cut the newsletter articles off. If this happens, you will not be able to read the entire newsletter. Use the button below to read all the articles and this newsletter online.

🤣-Chuckle & Trivia - Laughter & Knowledge - good for the soul.

☁️-Weather - Whether we like it or not!

🥾-Getting to know beautiful North Carolina

🏠 - Current real estate Listings

📰-News - Stay in the know with local news.

🏃 - Healthy Home - Healthy Family

📃 - Listings

🤹 - Local Business & Restaurant Spotlight

🆕 - This week’s grocery & store ads

🌶️ - Watch for “HOT DEALS”

➡️ - New Community Survey

Special Update Editions!

♦️Wednesday - Events Calendar Update♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Garage & Estate Sales♦️

Call Pierce at 919-410-2525

Here is a list of Businesses offering teacher discounts this week!

🍽️ Local Wake County Restaurant Offers

Toyar’s BBQ & Hotpot – Morrisville

Teachers can enjoy 10% off their dine-in meals all week long.

Bengong’s Tea – Morrisville

Get 10% off any drink when you show your school badge.

SoHot Hotpot – Raleigh & Cary

Receive 10% off your total bill in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.

MeetFresh – Raleigh

All teachers get 10% off desserts and beverages with valid ID.

Kobe Japanese Steak House & Yige Asian Cuisine – Clayton

Educators receive a 10% discount on all meals during the week.

🍔 Fast Food & Quick Service Deals for Teachers

Sonic Drive-In

Teachers who sign up for the free Teachers' Circle rewards program by May 6 can unlock exclusive perks, including:

  • Free cheeseburgers

  • BOGO drinks and sides

  • BOGO SONIC Blasts

Whataburger

From May 5–9, educators can claim a free breakfast entrée (like a taquito, Breakfast on a Bun, or honey butter chicken biscuit) from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. with ID.

Chick-fil-A (Triangle Locations)

On Tuesday, May 6, receive:

  • Free Chick-n-Minis in the morning

  • Free original chicken sandwich after 10:30 a.m.

McDonald’s (Participation Varies)

Some locations offer free breakfast sandwiches or drinks to teachers with valid ID—check with your local franchise.

🥪 Fast-Casual Restaurant Perks

MOD Pizza

Buy one MOD-sized pizza or salad, get another one free from May 5–8. ID required.

McAlister’s Deli

Enjoy a free Big Tea (any flavor) from May 5–12—no purchase necessary, just show your school ID.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

From May 5–11, teachers get a free cookie or fountain drink with any entrée purchase.

Insomnia Cookies

Show your school ID and receive one free classic cookie from May 5–11. No purchase required.

🐔 Sit-Down Restaurant Specials

Buffalo Wild Wings

Get 20% off your dine-in or takeout meal from May 6–12. Just show your school badge when you order.

Applebee’s

Receive a free appetizer with the purchase of an entrée when dining in (offer good through May 13).

Shake Shack

Enjoy a free milkshake with any purchase from May 6–12—just flash your educator ID.

🛍️ Retail & Tech Discounts

Staples

From May 4–10, teachers receive:

  • 20% off in-store purchases

  • A free 12-pack of pens with ID

Samsung

Save up to 30% on phones, laptops, and other tech when enrolled in Samsung’s Education Program.

Apple

Special education pricing on Macs, iPads, and accessories for verified educators.

Lenovo

Discounted pricing sitewide for teachers shopping through the Lenovo Education Store.

Eyemart Express

Educators receive an extra 20% off their purchase of eyeglasses or frames.

Costco

New members receive a bonus gift card:

  • $20 with Gold Star membership

  • $40 with Executive membership

🎉 Special Giveaways & Bonuses

Chipotle

Teachers can enter to win a free meal via Chipotle’s online sweepstakes at teacherthanks.chipotle.com through May 12.

Box Tops for Education

Earn an additional $5 for your school by scanning your first receipt using the Box Tops app with code TEACHER before May 31.

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!

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

"Behind every great kid is a mom who’s pretty sure she’s messing it all up."

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

The highest peak east of the Mississippi River is Mount Mitchell in North Carolina, standing at 6,684 feet!

📍On This Day in History📍

1961 – The First American in Space:

1937 – The Hindenburg Disaster: The German airship Hindenburg caught fire and crashed while attempting to land in New Jersey, killing 36 people.

Enjoy Our “Did You Know Section” About North Carolina. Need to get away? Visit Beautiful North Carolina!

Mount Mitchell: The Majestic Peak of the East

Standing proudly at 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, nestled in the Black Mountains of western North Carolina. This natural wonder offers not only awe-inspiring views and cool, crisp mountain air but also a rich history and ecological significance that make it a must-see destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Mount Mitchell is located within Mount Mitchell State Park, about 35 miles northeast of Asheville, along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The mountain is part of the Pisgah National Forest and lies in Yancey County. Its easily accessible summit makes it a favorite stop for those exploring the Parkway’s scenic route.

Geologically speaking, Mount Mitchell and the surrounding Appalachian Mountains are among the oldest mountains in the world—formed over 300 million years ago during the Paleozoic Era. While erosion has worn them down over time, the Black Mountains, where Mount Mitchell resides, still boast the tallest peaks in the eastern U.S.

Mount Mitchell is named after Dr. Elisha Mitchell, a professor at the University of North Carolina who was the first to scientifically measure its height in the 1830s. Tragically, he died in 1857 after falling from a waterfall during a re-measurement expedition. He is now buried at the summit, and a memorial honors his contributions.

The mountain became North Carolina’s first state park in 1915, thanks to increasing interest in conservation and protecting this pristine area from logging and development.

Visitors to Mount Mitchell State Park will find plenty to explore:

  • 🥾 Hiking Trails: Choose from a variety of trails, ranging from short walks like the Summit Trail to more strenuous hikes like the Mount Mitchell Trail that climbs 3,600 feet from the Black Mountain Campground.

  • 📸 Observation Deck: At the summit, an accessible observation platform offers panoramic views stretching up to 85 miles on a clear day.

  • 🌲 Unique Flora and Fauna: The summit supports spruce-fir forests more typical of Canada, and the cool, moist climate allows for rare plant species not found elsewhere in the region.

  • 🍽️ On-Site Restaurant & Museum: Learn more about the mountain’s natural and cultural history at the Park Museum, and grab a bite at the Mount Mitchell restaurant (open seasonally).

  • ❄️ Cool Summer Temperatures: Even in July and August, temperatures at the summit often remain in the 60s, making it a cool escape from the summer heat.

What truly sets Mount Mitchell apart is its high-elevation ecosystem, which is fragile and vastly different from the hardwood forests found at lower altitudes. The boreal forest environment at the top is a relic of the last Ice Age, offering a rare chance to see alpine-like conditions in the southern U.S.

Also unique is its status: being the tallest point east of the Rockies, it draws peak-baggers and visitors from across the country aiming to stand at the top of the East Coast.

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

Call Marie at 352-585-5259

Follow me on FaceBook 

Follow me on Instagram Click Here 

📩🏡 If you want to chat about making a move, fill out this FORM and I can contact you with information!

I’m Marie! As a former teacher turned realtor, I help families relocate to Wake County with expert guidance on school zoning and the market. I’m all about making the process stress-free and enjoyable. When I’m not working, I’m probably fostering dogs, reading, or supporting local businesses!  Follow me on social media for real estate tips, local updates, and cute pups!

✔️Check out the new local listings……...

What’s Happening in Wake County?

NC Coastal Wildfire Burns 1,300 Acres, Impacts Air Quality

A 1,300-acre wildfire burning in Croatan National Forest, known as the Black Swamp Fire, is affecting air quality along North Carolina’s coast. State officials have issued air quality alerts, urging residents—especially those with respiratory issues, children, and older adults—to limit outdoor activity.

The smoke contains fine particles (PM2.5) that can be harmful when inhaled. Health officials recommend staying indoors, keeping windows closed, and using air purifiers when possible.

For updates and safety tips, visit the NC Department of Environmental Quality website.

Mala Pata, New Latin American Restaurant,

Opens May 14 in Raleigh

Raleigh’s dining scene is getting a bold new addition with the opening of Mala Pata on May 14, 2025. Located at 2431 Crabtree Blvd, Suite 102 in Gateway Plaza, the restaurant is a collaboration between local culinary talents Angela Salamanca (Centro), Marshall Davis (Ex-Voto), and chefs Eric Montagne and Zack Gragg of Locals Seafood.

Mala Pata will feature Latin American dishes made with fresh masa and a Southern twist, including lechona tacos and collard green tamales. The restaurant will be open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m.

Gipson Play Plaza Set to Open in Raleigh’s Dix Park This June

Raleigh’s Dix Park will welcome the new Gipson Play Plaza on June 6–8, 2025, with a weekend of grand opening events. Spanning 18.5 acres, it’s one of the Southeast’s largest playgrounds and features multi-story climbing towers, water play zones, a sensory maze, a giant swing, and more.

Designed for all ages, the park also includes shaded picnic areas and a restored 1898 cottage-turned-market offering snacks and local goods. The public is invited to enjoy ribbon-cuttings, live events, and family-friendly activities throughout the opening weekend.

Support for Officer’s Wife Battling Cancer

The Wake Forest community is coming together to support Danielle Murray, wife of Wake Forest Police Sergeant Kevin Murray, as she battles stage II breast cancer. To help with medical expenses, a GoFundMe page has been set up, and a Benefit BBQ will be held on May 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wake Forest Fire Station #1 (420 Elm Avenue). Plates are $15 and available for takeout or dine-in.

For more information, visit the GoFundMe page: gofund.me/1e0cab59.

Traffic Alert – Jones Dairy Road Lane Reduction

Starting Tuesday, April 29, and continuing through mid-May, Iron Horse Contractors will be performing work on the future Quail Crossing Subdivision. This will result in a lane reduction on Jones Dairy Road between Green Mountain Drive and the project site.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, expect intermittent two-way traffic and occasional delays. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution and plan for extra time during this period.

Wake County Woman Charged After Collision with Semi-Truck

A Wake County woman has been charged following a head-on collision with a semi-truck in Morrisville on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Morrisville police responded to the scene at the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Chapel Hill Road shortly after 4:45 p.m. Emergency crews found a passenger vehicle and semi-truck involved in the crash.

The woman driving the passenger vehicle was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities have not yet released her name but confirmed charges are being pursued in connection with the incident.

The investigation is ongoing, and police are asking any witnesses to come forward.

Tomato Recall in 14 States, Including NC, Due to Salmonella Risk

A voluntary recall has been issued for fresh tomatoes due to potential Salmonella contamination. The affected tomatoes, distributed from April 23 to April 28, 2025, were sold under Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms labels in North Carolina and other states.

The recall includes various sizes and packaging, including 25 lbs. and 2-layer boxes. Salmonella can cause symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Consumers who have purchased the affected tomatoes should not consume them. Instead, return the product for a full refund or dispose of it safely. For more details, contact Jason Breland at 843-866-7707.

At this time, no illnesses have been reported.

Three Injured in Shooting at Party in Southeast Raleigh

Three people were injured in a shooting at a party on Mackinac Island Lane in southeast Raleigh early Sunday, May 4, 2025. The shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m., and two adults and one juvenile were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Raleigh police have not made any arrests and confirmed there is no ongoing public threat. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 919-996-1193.

Bear Sitings in the Area?

The likelihood of bear sightings in Wake County, NC, has been increasing due to a growing black bear population and urban development expanding into natural habitats. While precise predictions are difficult, the trend of bear sightings in suburban areas, including Raleigh and Wake Forest, is expected to continue in 2025.

North Carolina's black bear population, which is estimated at around 20,000, is spread across the state. The increasing number of bears, particularly younger males searching for new territory, is contributing to more sightings in both rural and urban regions. This is especially true during the spring and early summer when bears are more active.

Wake County has experienced several bear sightings in recent years, including reports of a bear cub spotted at E. Carroll Joyner Park in Wake Forest in early 2024. There have also been occasional sightings in areas such as Garner and Raleigh's Five Points.

With the expanding bear population and habitat encroachment, it is likely that Wake County will see more bear encounters throughout 2025, particularly in areas with large green spaces, parks, or wooded regions. Suburban areas near these habitats may be more susceptible to bear sightings as they seek food or new areas to roam.

To reduce the risk of bear encounters:

  • Secure trash: Use bear-resistant containers and avoid leaving food waste outside.

  • Remove bird feeders: Bears are attracted to birdseed, especially in spring and summer.

  • Store pet food indoors: Never leave pet food outside overnight.

  • Clean grills: Ensure grills are thoroughly cleaned and stored when not in use.

  • Stay safe: If you see a bear, keep your distance. Back away slowly and make noise to alert the bear to your presence.

April 2025 Rainfall and What to Expect in May

As April 2025 wraps up in Wake County, the area experienced above-average rainfall, with totals higher than the typical 2.80 inches that usually falls in the month. While exact figures are still being finalized for locations like Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), it's clear that the month was wetter than usual, with several weather stations reporting higher-than-normal totals.

Looking ahead to May, Wake County typically sees an average of 3.79 inches of rainfall. The month often begins with lighter showers in early May, with totals around 3.0 inches, then increases towards the end of the month, with late May often receiving closer to 3.4 inches. Expect a mix of sunny days and spring showers, with conditions conducive to outdoor activities in between the rain.

Stay informed on local weather patterns as the spring season continues to unfold!

For a complete list of events in Wake County, visit our “Events Page” below.

What To Do On Mother’s Day Weekend

🌸 Mother's Day Brunches in Wake County

Doherty’s Irish Pub & Restaurant – Apex, NC

The Mayton – Cary, NC

  • Event: Mother’s Day Brunch

  • Time: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

  • Details: Full brunch menu featuring a variety of dishes to celebrate moms.

  • Location: 301 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511

  • Reservations: Recommended

  • More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

The Goat Brier Creek – Raleigh, NC

  • Event: Mother’s Day Brunch

  • Time: 10:00 AM

  • Details: Celebrate Mother's Day with a special brunch menu in a vibrant atmosphere.

  • Location: 8320 Brier Creek Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27617

  • Reservations: Available online

  • More Info: Eventbrite

🍷 Vineyard Events in Wake County

ZincHouse Winery & Brewery – Durham, NC

  • Event: Mother’s Day Flower Arrangement Workshop

  • Date & Time: Sunday, May 11, 2025, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Details: Create a beautiful floral arrangement while enjoying a glass of wine.

  • Location: 6225 Wake Forest Hwy, Durham, NC 27703

  • Reservations: Required

  • More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

Cloer Family Vineyards – Apex, NC

  • Event: Sip, Learn & Bloom: A Mother’s Day Wine & Floral Affair

  • Date & Time: Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

  • Details: Enjoy a wine tasting and floral design class in a picturesque vineyard setting.

  • Location: 8624 Castleberry Rd, Apex, NC 27523

  • Reservations: Required

  • More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

🌟 Friday, May 9

🔭 Stargazing with Sagan

  • Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

  • Location: West Point on the Eno, Durham

  • Details: Enjoy a night under the stars with telescope viewing, hands-on activities, and an outdoor screening of Carl Sagan’s classic series, Cosmos.

  • Admission: Free

🛍️ Vintage Market Days® NC Triangle Mother's Day Event

  • Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Location: Jim Graham Building, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

  • Details: An upscale, vintage-inspired indoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, and more.

  • Admission: From $20 (children 12 and under free)

🌸 Saturday, May 10

🎉 Raleigh Spring Festival – Mother's Day Celebration

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh

  • Details: Live music, food trucks, vendors, games with prizes, face painting, and a special "Best Mom Dance" celebration.

  • Admission: Free

🎨 Cheers N Paint's Parent and Me Class: Mama and Baby Birds

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

  • Location: 2773 NC Hwy 55, Cary

  • Details: A painting class for parents and children to create a "Mama and Baby Birds" artwork together.

  • Cost: $27 – $50

🛍️ Mother's Day Market

  • Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  • Location: Boxcar Bar + Arcade, Downtown Raleigh

  • Details: Shop from local artisans and vendors for unique gifts.

  • Admission: Free

🎶 Ritmo Latino Festival

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Downtown Cary

  • Details: A celebration of Latino culture with music, art, dance, and food.

  • Admission: Free

🖼️ Wine and Design Apex: Mini and Me Pastel Elephants

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Location: 5456 Apex Peakway, Apex

  • Details: A painting session suitable for all ages to create pastel elephant artwork.

  • Cost: $29 per ticket

💐 Sunday, May 11 (Mother’s Day)

🖼️ Mother's Day Tea at NC Museum of Art

  • Time: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

  • Location: NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

  • Details: Enjoy a personalized tea experience including sweet and savory spring-inspired canapés.

🧘 Mother’s Day Yoga at Fortnight Brewing

  • Time: Morning (Exact time TBA)

  • Location: Fortnight Brewing Company, Cary

  • Details: Outdoor vinyasa flow yoga session suitable for all levels.

🍽️ Mother’s Day Brunch Options

  • Peck & Plume at The Mayton Inn, Cary

    • Time: 8:00 AM – 2:15 PM

    • Cost: $79 per adult, $29 per child under 10

    • Details: Southern-inspired brunch with favorites like Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict and Pancakes.

  • The Willard Rooftop Lounge, Raleigh

    • Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    • Cost: $30 per person, $15 for kids 6-12, 5 and under are free

    • Details: Brunch favorites with a rooftop view.

  • Herons at The Umstead Hotel, Cary

    • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

    • Cost: $115 per adult, $35 per child (ages 2 to 10)

    • Details: An elevated Mother’s Day brunch celebration with a four-course choice menu.

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This Week’s Featured Essential Oil

Bergamot Essential Oil

A Citrus Scent with Powerful Benefits

Bergamot essential oil, derived from the rind of the Citrus bergamia fruit, is a fragrant and versatile oil widely used in aromatherapy, skincare, and even the food and beverage industry. Best known as the distinct flavor in Earl Grey tea, this essential oil offers a wide array of benefits for the body and mind.

Bergamot is primarily grown in southern Italy, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal. The essential oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the fruit, producing a light greenish-yellow oil with a fresh, sweet, and slightly spicy citrus aroma.

One of the most well-known uses of bergamot oil is for its uplifting and calming effects. Inhaling its scent can:

  • Help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression

  • Promote a sense of relaxation and well-being

  • Support better sleep quality when diffused before bedtime

It is often used in blends for mood enhancement or in meditation practices for its grounding-yet-light aroma.

Bergamot oil is prized in natural skincare, but with a note of caution (see safety tips below). It offers:

  • Antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help with acne and oily skin

  • Support in treating eczema and psoriasis

  • A brightening effect when diluted and applied to skin (in the absence of sun exposure)

It is also added to shampoos for its refreshing scent and potential to help control oily scalp conditions.

Other Uses

  • Digestive aid: When used in massage (properly diluted), bergamot oil can relieve indigestion and bloating.

  • Natural deodorizer: Its clean scent makes it ideal for DIY perfumes, room sprays, and cleaning products.

  • Immune booster: Some studies suggest bergamot oil may help stimulate immune response due to its antimicrobial properties.

Bergamot essential oil contains compounds known as furocoumarins, which can cause photosensitivity—a reaction that can lead to burns or skin discoloration when exposed to sunlight after topical use. To use safely:

  • Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin

  • Avoid direct sun or UV exposure for at least 12 hours after application

  • Choose furocoumarin-free (FCF) versions if available for topical use

Bergamot essential oil is a powerful and pleasant tool in the world of natural wellness. Whether you're looking to lift your mood, clear your skin, or simply enjoy its crisp citrus aroma, this oil is a beautiful addition to your essential oil collection—used safely and wisely.

Help our local food banks support those who are in need!

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

New Bethel Rolesville

605 East Young St.

Rolesville, NC 27571

919-556-5395

Wake Forest Coffee

156 South White St.

Wake Forest, NC 27587

919-554-8914

Please Recommend Us and Share Our Newsletter With A Friend!

Photo by Big Ed’s

Big Ed’s in Garner: A Taste of Southern Tradition

Tucked along Timber Drive in Garner, North Carolina, Big Ed’s Restaurant is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a continuation of a local legacy that began more than six decades ago. Known for its warm hospitality and timeless comfort food, Big Ed’s in Garner brings the charm of old-school Southern cooking to a growing community that values tradition as much as taste.

The original Big Ed’s was founded in 1958 by Ed Watkins, a Wake County native who crafted his recipes from childhood meals on his family’s farm. After decades of success in Raleigh, the restaurant’s spirit expanded to Garner in 2019, where the same dedication to homestyle cooking and community values now thrives.

Stepping into Big Ed’s in Garner is like stepping into a cozy country kitchen. Breakfast is served all day, featuring oversized pancakes, flaky biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, and thick slices of country ham. Weekday lunch and dinner menus offer comfort classics like fried catfish, chicken salad sandwiches, and down-home vegetable sides that taste like they came straight from a Southern garden.

Big Ed’s has quickly become a favorite among Garner residents, appreciated for its hearty portions, reasonable prices, and inviting staff. Locals often rave about the "larger-than-life" pancakes and the feeling of being treated like family. The décor is simple but nostalgic, evoking the feel of a farmhouse kitchen, with checkered tablecloths and walls lined with vintage memorabilia.

What sets Big Ed’s apart, aside from the food, is its commitment to consistency and heart. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you can count on a plate that’s been prepared with care and a greeting that feels like home.

Now operated by Sam and Lynn Hobgood, who took over the original restaurant in 2006, the Garner location holds true to Big Ed Watkins’ founding principles: good food, made right, served with genuine Southern hospitality. The Hobgoods have been careful stewards of this legacy, ensuring that every dish—from grits to gravy—honors the original recipes while still fitting into the rhythm of modern life.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, Big Ed’s in Garner offers a dining experience that feels like Sunday supper at grandma’s house—no reservation required.

5009 Falls of Neuse Road

Raleigh, NC 27609

919-747-9533

…………………………….👇👇👇………………..……….

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.
 

Time to kick back, let loose, and have some fun without torching your wallet. How about crashing a "Happy Hour" to wine down the wild way? Think tasty little bites, killer cocktails, and your crew cracking up around you. Get ready to dig our epic lineup of local hotspots that’ll make you the hero of chill! 🍸🍋

Check out Page 2 of our newsletter for a long list of “Happy Hour Spots!

The fridge is a barren wasteland, and the kids are roaring like little hunger monsters! Oh, and surprise, your stomach’s growling too! After a bonkers day, you’re craving a spot to chow down with the crew, but your wallet’s giving you the side-eye. No stress—we’ve got your back! 👋👶

Flip to page 3 of our newsletter for the juiciest "Kids Eat Free Deals" that’ll save the day (and your cash)!

You’re free to do whatever, whenever! But tonight? Cooking’s a hard pass. Now that you’re rocking that wise-and-mature vibe, you’re all about early dinners (gotta catch those Z’s like a champ). So why not snag some epic "Senior Deals" and keep your wallet happy too?💓🫂

Swing over to page 4 of our newsletter—it’s your VIP pass to savings town!

We’ve got the latest local happenings all in one place—fast, easy, and super convenient. No more scrolling endlessly or missing out on cool stuff. From family fun and food deals to live events and hidden gems, we’ve got your weekend plans covered.

And hey, if you’ve got an event coming up that you’d love to share with the community, we want to hear from you! Just send it our way and we’ll get it on the list.

Wake News & Events—your go-to guide for good times in Wake County and beyond! 💃🕺

We just added the FREE MOVIE NIGHT calendar! Check it out!

🎉 Coming soon—a fabulous new addition to your favorite newsletter! 🎉 We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring you even more savings and fresh new ideas that you won’t want to miss. 🙌 Stay tuned and make sure you don’t skip a single issue of your go-to newsletter—Wake News & Events! ✨📰 You won’t regret it!

🎬 Free Morning Kids' Movies in Holly Springs! 🍿

Looking for a fun way to spend time with your little ones? Head over to the Holly Springs Cultural Center for some exciting, FREE kids' movie mornings.

🗓 When: Every Wednesday at 10:00 AM
📍 Where: Holly Springs Cultural Center, 300 W. Ballentine St., Holly Springs, NC 27540
💰 Cost: FREE!
🍿 Concessions: Available for purchase in the lobby

🎬 Free Outdoor Family Movie Nights in Wake County! 🍿🌟

Get ready to grab your blankets, pack some popcorn, and enjoy some unforgettable movie nights under the stars! 🌙✨ Wake County is rolling out a fantastic lineup of FREE outdoor family movie nights that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you're in Cary, Wake Forest, Apex, Raleigh, or anywhere in the county there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a look at where you can catch some amazing flicks this year! 🎥🍿

Don’t miss out. Check the Wake News & Events calendar for times, locations, and the feature movie!

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

Yard, Garage, & Estate Sales Posted On Fridays.

📍Knightdale, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon 📍

Type of Sale

Date(s) & Time

Address

📍 Fuquay-Varina,Garner, & Holly Springs📍

Type of Sale

Date & Time

Address

📍 Raleigh, Apex, Cary, & Morrisville📍

Type of Sale

Date & Time

Address

Coming on Friday

If you have a garage, yard, or estate sale in Wake County that you would like to list, contact us at [email protected] with all the details. We will be happy to include your sale. All information must be received by Wednesday 12:00 PM to be listed in the Friday ads.

Weekly Ads

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!

💲Harris Teeter Coupons 

Thurs. Seniors Save 10%! Up to $1.00 off per gal. on fuel.

💲Food Lion Coupons  

💲Lowes Food Coupons   

Save 5¢ per gallon for every $100 spent in-store.

💲Lidl Foods Coupons 

💲Publix Coupons 5% off for Seniors on Wed.

💲Aldi Coupons 

💲Walmart Coupons

No Senior Discounts

__________

💲Michael’s Coupons

10% off w/Rewards Card”

__________

💲Rite Aid

65+ 20% off first Wed. of Month

__________

💲Lowe’s

10% Senior & Vet Discout

__________

💲Kohl’s

15% Senior Discount on Wed.

__________

💲Ross Dress 4 Less

10% Senior Discount on Tues.

💲Kohl’s  Coupons  

15% off on Wed. for Seniors

__________

💲Pet Smart Coupons

Seniors & Millitary 10% off on Tues

__________

💲Belk

15% - 20% Off on Tues. for Seniors

__________

💲AMC Theaters

30% Senior Discount

__________

💲Pep Boys

10% Senior Discount

__________

💲Hardee’s

10% Senior Discount

💲Target Coupons

No Senior Discounts

__________

💲Walgreen Coupons 

Seniors 20% off 1st Tues. of month

__________

💲Goodwill

Tuesdays 10% off for Seniors

__________

💲Regal Cinemas

30% Senior Discount

__________

💲Michaels

10% Senior Discount

__________

💲Culver’s

5% Senior Discount

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