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  • 📫Today’s Mortgage Rates | Top Fall Farms to Visit in Wake County | Raleigh Tamale Festival | Shrimp Recall Expands📍

📫Today’s Mortgage Rates | Top Fall Farms to Visit in Wake County | Raleigh Tamale Festival | Shrimp Recall Expands📍

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Hello friends!

Today, September 25th, is One-Hit Wonder Day! It celebrates those unforgettable songs that dominated the charts once and still bring back memories.

Some classic favorites include:

  • “Macarena” by Los Del Rio – the dance craze that swept the world.

  • “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice – the iconic ’90s rap hit that everyone knows.

Take a moment to sing along, smile, and enjoy a little musical nostalgia as we head toward the weekend!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

🎉 From Fashion to Gadgets – The Deals Are Always Changing! 🎉
Every day brings new savings, and we’re here to hook you up! Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, Christmas, a last-minute gift, or just treating yourself (because why not?), we’ve got your back with fresh coupons and awesome deals — all through our link!

We hustle daily so you can save big for you and your family.
Click. Shop. Save. Repeat.

Please note that for some deals you mayneed to be an Amazon member.

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the one-hit wonder break up with the band?
Because it didn’t want a long-term commitment! 🎵😂

📍 Trivia 📍

🎶 One-Hit Wonders by Decade

1960s: “Green Tambourine” – The Lemon Pipers (1967)

1970s: “Seasons in the Sun” – Terry Jacks (1974) and “Kung Fu Fighting” – Carl Douglas (1974)

1980s: “Take On Me” – A-ha (1985) and “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell (1981)

1990s: “Ice Ice Baby” – Vanilla Ice (1990) and “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm” – Crash Test Dummies (1993)

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

This Week’s Feature-North Carolina Fall Adventures

Experience Fall at Carolina Beach: A Coastal Autumn Escape 🍂

While North Carolina’s mountains often steal the spotlight in the fall, the coast offers its own unique and serene autumn charm. Carolina Beach, a quaint seaside town, transforms into a peaceful retreat as summer crowds dwindle and the crisp fall air sets in. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity make it perfect for outdoor activities such as walking along the beach, biking the island, or exploring Carolina Beach State Park. Trails like the Flytrap, Swamp, and Oak Toe trails provide short, scenic hikes where visitors can enjoy colorful leaves and spot turkey oaks showing off vibrant autumn hues.

With the peak tourist season over, the town becomes quieter, offering a more relaxed experience to enjoy local eateries, stroll the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, or simply unwind by the ocean. Fall is also an ideal time for beachcombing, with calmer seas and fewer crowds creating more opportunities to discover unique shells along the shoreline. Nearby Cape Lookout National Seashore is particularly popular for finding treasures like the Scotch bonnet, North Carolina’s state shell.

The best time to visit Carolina Beach in the fall is from late October to early November, when the weather is comfortably cool and the state park’s fall colors are at their peak. Whether seeking a quiet beach getaway, a nature-filled retreat, or simply a chance to experience the coast in a new light, Carolina Beach offers a picturesque and refreshing autumn escape.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but restaurant deals may change at any time. Please call ahead to confirm the current offer.

🍽 Thursday Food Deals – Wake County, NC

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Cary (Crossroads Plaza)
📍 5707 Dillard Dr, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Thursday Deal: Tri-tip entrée or half-rack of ribs + Pizookie for $19 (dine-in or online)

Buffalo Wild Wings – Multiple Locations (Raleigh, Cary, Garner, Wake Forest)
📍 e.g., 7981 Skyland Ridge Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27617
🍴 Thursday Deal: BOGO free boneless wings

Cracker Barrel – Raleigh, Cary, Garner
📍 1709 Owen Dr, Cary, NC 27511
📍 1701 Highwoods Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604
📍 1545 US-70, Garner, NC 27529
🍴 Thursday Deal: Turkey n’ Dressing lunch – $9.99

Miller’s Ale House – Cary
📍 5703 Dillard Dr, Cary, NC 27518
🍴 Thursday Deal: 12-oz Prime Rib + side – $17.99 (dine-in or takeout)

Quiznos – Cary
📍 890 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Thursday Deal: 8" Ultimate Turkey Club – $7.45 (in-app order only)

Red Lobster – Raleigh & Cary
📍 4411 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604
📍 4411 Wade Ave, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Thursday Deal: Shrimp or Chicken Alfredo – $15; $2 off select appetizers (2–6 p.m.)

Smokey Bones – Raleigh & Cary
📍 1305 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
📍 14460 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614
🍴 Thursday Deal: BOGO Brisket Platters + 2 sides + garlic bread

Tijuana Flats – Raleigh & Cary
📍 1310 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
📍 4400 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
🍴 Thursday Deal: Burrito + chips + drink – $7.99 (online, app, or in-store)

If your restaurant offers discounts on Thursday’s or any day of the week, let us know and we will add you to the list.

Call Marie at 352-585-5259

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📩🏡 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 Our New Downloadable Home Buyer’s Guide! 👇

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What’s Happening in Wake County?

Shrimp Recall Expanded Over Radiation Concerns

Several brands of frozen shrimp sold nationwide are being recalled due to possible contamination with cesium-137, a radioactive material.

Products Recalled

  • Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp (2 lb bags)

  • Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp (2 lb bags)

  • AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail-On Shrimp Skewers (1.25 lb bags)

  • Some Southwind Foods brands, including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, and Best Yet

The products were sold between June and September 2025 at Kroger and other grocery chains in over 30 states.

Health Concerns

  • Cesium-137 exposure can increase cancer risk, though detected levels were below FDA’s danger threshold.

  • No illnesses reported so far.

What to Do

  • Check your freezer for recalled shrimp (UPC and lot codes are listed on the FDA’s website).

  • Do not eat the products—return them for a refund or discard safely.

  • Retailers should stop sales immediately.

Source of Contamination

The FDA traced the issue to an Indonesian supplier, BMS Foods, now under import restrictions. Shipments flagged at U.S. ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Savannah, and Miami contained traces of radioactive material.

For full recall details, visit the FDA’s recall page.

Teen Arrested for Bringing Gun to East Wake Academy

ZEBULON, NC — A teenager was arrested after bringing a gun to East Wake Academy, officials say. Staff were alerted through the “Say Something” app, which allows students to report safety concerns anonymously.

The student was taken into custody without incident, and no injuries were reported. East Wake Academy thanked staff and law enforcement for their quick response and reminded students to report any concerning behavior.

Today’s Mortgage Rates

As of September 25, 2025, mortgage rates in Wake County, North Carolina, reflect current national trends, offering options for both homebuyers and those considering refinancing. 30-year fixed-rate mortgages range from approximately 6.23% to 6.39%, while 15-year fixed-rate loans sit between 5.41% and 5.84%. 5-year adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are around 5.63% to 5.65%, and jumbo loans average 6.32%. Rates can vary based on individual financial profiles and lender offerings.

Recent trends show a slight decrease in mortgage rates, influenced by a recent quarter-point Federal Reserve rate cut, which lowered long-term Treasury yields, as well as market expectations regarding inflation. Homeowners with higher existing mortgage rates may find refinancing attractive, but it’s important to weigh potential savings against closing costs and consider how new loan terms fit long-term financial goals.

For the most accurate and personalized information, reaching out to local Wake County lenders is recommended, as mortgage rates fluctuate daily and can vary depending on specific financial circumstances.

🌮🎶 Spice Up Your Weekend at the Raleigh Tamale Festival!

Get ready to turn up the flavor and the fun because the Raleigh Tamale Festival is back this Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Moore Square, 200 S. Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601! Best of all? It’s free!

This isn’t just a food festival—it’s a full-on celebration of Latin American culture. Expect mouthwatering tamales from local chefs competing for the crown of Raleigh’s best, food trucks serving up diverse culinary delights, and local vendors with everything from handmade crafts to festive goodies.

🎵 Live music and entertainment will keep your toes tapping while families, couples, and friends explore the colorful festival grounds. There’s plenty for kids to enjoy, including interactive activities and sweet treats, making it a perfect outing for everyone.

Why go? Because it’s a feast for all the senses: taste the flavors, feel the rhythm of the music, and soak up the vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fun way to spend the afternoon, the Raleigh Tamale Festival delivers a fiesta you won’t want to miss!

🔗 For all the details and updates, visit Visit Raleigh.

🍎 Top Fall Farms to Visit in Wake County

Fall is in full swing, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a trip to Wake County’s charming farms! Whether you’re looking for apple picking, pumpkin adventures, or fun family activities, Millstone Creek Orchards and Phillips Farms of Cary have you covered.

Millstone Creek Orchards in Ramseur, located at 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd, offers a classic orchard experience with pre-picked apples like Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, and Crimson Crisp. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted food and drinks at the Cider House, including hard cider, NC wines, local craft beer, flatbreads, and gourmet sandwiches. The orchard also features live music, Char Mar Alpacas meet-and-greets, catch-and-release fishing, and seasonal treats like apple cider donuts and slushies. Weekend hours are Saturday 11 AM–5 PM and Sunday 1–5 PM.

For a fun-filled family adventure closer to Cary, Phillips Farms at 6800 Good Hope Church Road offers a Family Fun Park with corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and wagon rides. The farm market highlights local produce and beverages, and seasonal decorations add to the festive atmosphere. Hours are Thursday 4–8 PM, Friday 3–6 PM, Saturday 10 AM–6 PM, and Sunday 1–6 PM, giving families plenty of opportunities to plan a weekend visit.

Whether you’re craving the taste of fresh apples, the thrill of a corn maze, or simply a cozy fall day outdoors, these Wake County farms are perfect destinations to soak in the colors, flavors, and fun of autumn.

🎃 Pumpkin Patches & Hayrides in Wake County This Weekend

Looking for fall fun? Here are some great spots in and around Wake County where you can enjoy pumpkin picking, hayrides, and more:

Page Farms – Raleigh
📍 6100 Mount Herman Road, Raleigh
🍂 Seasonal farm with pumpkins, hayrides, a corn maze, and farm animals.

Phillips Farms – Cary
📍 Cary, NC
🍂 Family Fun Park featuring wagon rides, a corn maze, and fall attractions.

Naylor Family Farm & Corn Maze – Fuquay-Varina
📍 6016 US-401 N, Fuquay-Varina
🍂 Hayrides, pumpkins, a giant corn maze, farm animals, and more.

Crossroads Corn Maze – Wendell
📍 5712 Watkins Road, Wendell
🍂 Corn maze, hay maze, pumpkins, and hayrides.

Hill Ridge Farms – Youngsville (just outside Wake County)
📍 Youngsville, NC
🍂 Covered wagon rides and a free pumpkin with admission.

Ken’s Produce & Korny Corn Maze – Garner
📍 Garner, NC
🍂 Pumpkins, hayrides, and a family-friendly corn maze.

Because we can all use some good news.

Molly the Cockapoo: A Week-Long Adventure Ends in Joy

A community came together to reunite Molly, a two-year-old cockapoo, with her family after she went missing for a week in Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire. Molly had slipped away from her owner’s elderly mother’s cottage while her family was away on holiday.

Local volunteers, including the Busters Animal SOS Team, used drones, cameras, and even bait like sausages and bacon to track her down. After several close calls and a failed trap, Molly was finally spotted near a farmer’s field, about a mile and a half from where she went missing.

When John Stringer’s daughter, Emily, arrived, Molly recognized her family and leapt into her arms—an emotional reunion captured on drone footage. After a veterinary check, Molly returned safely home, a joyful reminder of the power of community, persistence, and love for our four-legged friends.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

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What’s Happening Today?

🍷 Wine & Culinary Delights

Triangle Wine Company – Wine Tasting & Live Music 🎶🍇
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Triangle Wine Company, 2020 Renaissance Park Pl, Raleigh
Details: Sip on curated wines while enjoying live acoustic music. Perfect for a midweek unwind!
💰 Admission: Free entry; wine available for purchase
🔗 More info

🎭 Theater & Performing Arts

The Uproar: Dude Where’s My Era? 🎤🤣
Time: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: TR Studio, 3027 Barrow Drive, Raleigh
Details: A hilarious comedic journey through the evolution of humor.
💰 Admission: $18
🔗 More info

What We Leave Behind 🎭💫
Time: 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM
📍 Location: Theatre Raleigh, 514 Daniels Street, Raleigh
Details: A moving performance exploring legacy and memory.
💰 Admission: Ticket prices vary
🔗 More info

United Strings of Color at African American Cultural Festival 🎻🎉
Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh
Details: Celebrate African American heritage through powerful orchestral music.
💰 Admission: Check festival website for ticket info
🔗 More info

🎤 Comedy & Entertainment

Spirits of Wake Forest Ghost Walks 👻🌙
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Downtown Wake Forest
Details: Explore haunted tales and local legends on this guided walking tour.
💰 Admission: $20
🔗 More info

🎨 Arts & Culture

Wandering Between Worlds Art Exhibition 🖌️🌿
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Pullen Arts Center, 105 Pullen Road, Raleigh
Details: Landscape paintings by Min Zhong ZC exploring nature and identity.
💰 Admission: Free
🔗 More info

🎬 Family-Friendly Entertainment

The Princess and the Frog – Free Movie Screening 👑🐸🍿
Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Holly Springs Cultural Center, 300 W. Ballentine Street, Holly Springs
Details: Heartwarming animated fun for all ages; free popcorn included!
💰 Admission: Free (first-come, first-served)
🔗 More info

Be sure to click below to review our “Events Calendar” with over 100 events happening today and this week!

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👇👇👇

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11