📫A Hallmark Christmas | Wake County Schools Report Increase in Restraint Incidents | Bananas or Cherries? | BBQ, Bands & Fun📍

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Hello friends!

We made it through the week, friends! 🙌 If you’re dragging a little and could use a pick-me-up, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. From festivals to live music to family fun, our weekend list is packed with things to lift your spirits. And for those who like to kick back with a cold one, don’t forget to check out our Happy Hour list—it’s the perfect way to toast the weekend. Cheers to fun, laughter, and making the most of Friday night! 🍷🍔🎶

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.”

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the pancake go to the party?
Because it knew it would flip out with excitement! 🥞😄

📍 Trivia 📍

Ancient Breakfast – Pancakes are one of the oldest forms of bread, with evidence of pancake-like foods dating back to 5,000 B.C. in ancient civilizations.

Romantic Fall Weekend in Edenton, North Carolina 🍁

If you’re looking for a charming and intimate fall getaway, Edenton, North Carolina, is the perfect destination. Nestled along the Albemarle Sound, this picturesque town combines rich history, scenic waterfronts, and the vibrant colors of autumn to create an ideal setting for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand through Edenton’s historic district, where tree-lined streets showcase 18th-century homes and colonial architecture, all bathed in the golden hues of fall.

Couples can enjoy peaceful walks along the Albemarle Sound, where the changing leaves reflect off the water, or take a leisurely Historic Edenton Trolley Tour to explore the town’s colonial past. Outdoor enthusiasts can rent bikes and ride through oak-lined streets and surrounding countryside, enjoying the crisp autumn air and colorful scenery. The best time to visit is typically mid to late October, when foliage is at its peak and temperatures are comfortably cool.

For a cozy stay, the Inner Banks Inn, a boutique bed-and-breakfast, offers charming rooms and personalized service, providing the perfect base for exploring Edenton’s attractions. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and romantic ambiance, Edenton promises a memorable fall weekend for couples seeking a serene and enchanting escape.

🍽 Friday Food Deals – Wake County, NC

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Cary (Crossroads Plaza)
📍 5707 Dillard Dr, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Friday Deal: 3-course weekend special – Prime Rib $34.99 or Double Bone-In Pork Chop $31.99; includes two sides, a soup or starter salad, and a Pizookie (after 4 p.m.)

Beef 'O’Brady’s – Raleigh
📍 2205 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27608
🍴 Friday Deal: Fish ‘N’ Chips – Fried Cod fillets, fries, coleslaw for $11.49

Burger King – Multiple locations
📍 Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest
🍴 Friday Deal: Free any-size fry with $1+ in-app purchase

Carl’s Jr. – Cary
📍 200 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Friday Deal: Free any-size natural-cut or waffle fries for rewards members (online, in-app, or in-store purchase)

Cotton Patch Cafe – Raleigh & Cary
📍 6600 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27612
📍 3600 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518
🍴 Friday Deal: Blackened Tilapia Meal – $9.99 (grilled tilapia fillets, seasoned rice, garlic mashed potatoes, bacon green beans)

Max & Erma’s – Cary
📍 931 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Friday Deal: Fish & Chips – Cod, fries, coleslaw $12

Metro Diner – Raleigh & Cary
📍 3800 Lake Boone Trl, Raleigh, NC 27607
📍 3601 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518
🍴 Friday Deal: Fish & Chips $12.99 or Fried Fish Sandwich $9.99 (includes one side, soup or salad with fish & chips)

Red Lobster – Raleigh & Cary
📍 4411 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604
📍 4411 Wade Ave, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Friday Deal: Fish & Chips $15.99 (Cod, Chesapeake fries, coleslaw, hushpuppies)

Smoothie King – Multiple locations
📍 Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest
🍴 Friday Deal: Upsize 20-oz smoothie to 32-oz free for Healthy Rewards members

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe – Cary & Raleigh
📍 1405 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
📍 4011 Carya Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27610
🍴 Friday Deal: Taziki’s Signature Pasta $12.49 – mixed lettuces, penne, grilled chicken, balsamic vinaigrette, tomatoes, feta, fresh basil

Quiznos – Cary
📍 890 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
🍴 Friday Deal: 8-inch Spicy Monterey Sub $7.45 (in-app order only)

Wendy’s – Multiple locations
📍 Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest
🍴 Friday Deal: Free any-size fry with any in-app purchase

Which Wich – Cary & Raleigh
📍 930 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
📍 4820-10 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
🍴 Friday Deal: 7-inch Seafood Wich $7 (tuna salad, tuna melt, Krab Salad, Call Roll, Land & Sea)

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🎄 A Hallmark Christmas Comes to Apex

Mark your calendars for a magical holiday celebration in Apex! NC Vibes is hosting Holidays Around the World — A Hallmark Christmas on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sweetwater, 2701 Lawnview Lane, Apex, NC. Best of all — admission is free!

This festive community event is designed to capture the warmth, joy, and sparkle of the season. Families, couples, and friends can enjoy a full day of holiday cheer with activities, entertainment, and global traditions brought to life.

✨ Event Highlights

• Holiday Market featuring local artisans, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats.

• Santa’s Village with photo ops for children and families.

• Cultural Showcases celebrating winter holiday traditions from around the world.

• Live Music & Performances including carolers, dance groups, and community talent.

• Food & Drink Vendors with festive eats, warm drinks, and holiday desserts.

• Kids’ Activities such as crafts, face painting, and letters to Santa.

• Tree Lighting & Holiday Décor that sets the perfect Hallmark-style backdrop for memory making.

This is more than just a holiday event — it’s a chance to step into a Hallmark movie moment right here in Apex. Whether you’re looking for gifts, family fun, or simply a joyful way to kick off the season, Holidays Around the World — A Hallmark Christmas is a can’t-miss celebration.

📍 Location: Sweetwater, 2701 Lawnview Lane, Apex, NC
🗓️ Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
💲 Admission: Free

Wake County Schools Report Increase in Restraint Incidents

Wake County Schools reported a significant rise in restraint and seclusion incidents, with 1,802 restraint cases in 2024—up 38% from 1,304 in 2023—and 447 seclusion incidents, more than double the roughly 174 reported the previous year. Disparities remain a concern: over half of the students restrained are Black, even though they make up about 22% of the student body. Boys are restrained or secluded about three times more often than girls, and students with disabilities are disproportionately affected. In response, the district is increasing behavioral specialist staffing, expanding crisis and de-escalation training, visiting schools, and reviewing formal policies for seclusion rooms.

Meanwhile, Wake County teachers are increasingly using AI tools for brainstorming and feedback, though the district has yet to implement a formal AI policy. Some educators are applying a “zoning” approach, allowing AI in certain assignments while restricting it in others. The Board of Education is actively working on rules to define AI usage, boundaries, and student data protections.

To improve transparency and accountability, WCPSS is now required to report seclusion and restraint numbers to the Board every six months, and parents must be notified within 24 hours if their child is restrained.

Discover the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging

The Wake Forest Center for Active Aging, located at 235 E. Holding Avenue, is a vibrant hub designed for adults aged 55 and older. The center offers a wide variety of programs to keep members active, creative, and socially engaged. Participants can enjoy aerobics and line dancing classes to stay fit, explore their artistic side through painting workshops, or develop hands-on skills with wood carving sessions. Beyond physical and creative activities, the center hosts regular social events, providing opportunities for members to connect, make new friends, and enjoy a strong sense of community.

Whether you’re looking to stay active, learn something new, or simply enjoy the company of others, the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging offers resources and activities that promote a healthy, engaging lifestyle for older adults in the community.

🏛️ Wake County Senior Services

Wake County Senior Services offers a range of programs and services to support older adults in maintaining their independence and quality of life. Their offerings include health and wellness programs, educational workshops, and social activities.
👉 Visit Wake County Senior Services

🎨 Wake Forest Center for Active Aging

Located at 235 E. Holding Ave., the Wake Forest Center provides adults aged 55 and older with a full schedule of recreational activities, such as aerobics, line dancing, ballroom dancing, wood carving, and more.
👉 Explore Wake Forest Center for Active Aging

🏃‍♂️ Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources – Active Adult Program

Raleigh's Active Adult Program serves thousands of adults aged 50 and older, offering over 25 one-day and overnight trips each year, educational seminars, exercise and wellness classes, art classes, and more.
👉 Learn about Raleigh Active Adult Program

🖼️ Eastern Wake Senior Center

Located in Wendell, the Eastern Wake Senior Center provides educational classes, recreational activities, and support services to adults aged 55 and older. They offer fitness, arts, and other classes, as well as a lunch program for seniors aged 60 and over.
👉 Discover Eastern Wake Senior Center

🎭 Cary Senior Center

The Cary Senior Center offers regular exercise classes, social activities, day trips, and informational workshops and seminars on topics including finances, health, and more.
👉 Visit Cary Senior Center

🧓 Northern Wake Senior Center

Northern Wake Senior Center offers a variety of programs and events for adults aged 50 and older, including music jams, dulcimer classes, and cardio drumming sessions.
👉 Explore Northern Wake Senior Center

📅 The Senior Network – Upcoming Events

The Senior Network hosts a variety of events for seniors in Wake County, including Senior Days at local malls, "Sharing With Seniors" gatherings, and informational sessions on topics like Medicare and primary care.
👉 Check out The Senior Network Events

📚 Wake County Public Libraries – Senior Programs

Wake County Public Libraries offer a range of programs and events for seniors, including book clubs, educational workshops, and social gatherings.
👉 Explore Senior Programs at Wake County Libraries

🏞️ Wake County Parks, Recreation & Open Space – Programs & Events

Wake County Parks, Recreation & Open Space provides various programs and events for seniors, including outdoor activities, fitness classes, and community events.
👉 Discover Programs & Events

Get Your Kids Moving and Involved This Fall!

In today’s fast-paced world, keeping children active and involved in extracurricular activities is more important than ever. Regular physical activity not only strengthens young bodies but also supports healthy growth, improves cardiovascular health, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Beyond the physical benefits, staying active fosters mental wellness, reducing stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

Sports, in particular, play a unique role in raising well-rounded children. Participation in team sports teaches kids essential life skills, such as teamwork, communication, and resilience. Learning to win gracefully and lose with dignity helps children develop emotional intelligence and a strong sense of sportsmanship. Individual sports, like swimming or gymnastics, build self-discipline, focus, and personal accountability, showing children the value of consistent effort and goal setting.

In addition to physical and mental benefits, sports create opportunities for social engagement. Children learn to navigate friendships, cooperate with peers, and build lasting relationships in a supportive environment. Regular involvement in structured activities can also improve academic performance, as active children often exhibit better concentration, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Ultimately, keeping kids active and engaged—whether through sports, clubs, or other extracurricular activities—helps them develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Sports provide more than just exercise; they lay the foundation for lifelong health, character development, and social connection, shaping children into strong, capable, and balanced individuals.

🏀 Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources – Youth Basketball

• Age Groups: Boys and girls, ages 5–17

• Registration Period: September 22–30, 2025 (Late registration with a $15 fee, if spots are available)

• Season Dates: Practices begin the weekend of September 27–28; season ends November 16

• Details: Leagues are based on age as of December 31, 2025. New participants must provide a birth certificate at registration.

• Registration: Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources

🏈 i9 Sports – North Wake County

• Sports Offered: Flag Football, Soccer, Basketball, T-Ball, Volleyball, Lacrosse

• Season Dates: October 4–November 15, 2025

• Registration Deadline: September 26, 2025

• Details: 7-week programs with games on Saturdays.

• Registration: i9 Sports – North Wake County

🏃‍♂️ YMCA of the Triangle – Y Runners

• Age Groups: U7–U10 and U11–U14

• Season Dates: Week of September 6–November 6, 2025

• Details: Two cross-country meets and time trials throughout the season. Practices and races are held at registered branches.

• Registration: YMCA of the Triangle – Y Runners

🏈 YMCA of the Triangle – Youth Flag Football

• Age Groups: Coed: 7U, 9U, 11U

• Season Dates: September 6–November 9, 2025

• Details: Games and practices are held at various YMCA branches.

• Registration: YMCA of the Triangle – Youth Flag Football

  Spice Up Your Fall at the Raleigh Tamale Festival! 🌽🎉

  Get ready, Raleigh—your taste buds are in for a fiesta! Every fall, Moore Square Park transforms into a sizzling celebration of flavor, culture, and community at the Raleigh Tamale Festival. It’s free, it’s fun, and yes… it smells amazing.

  When & Where

  • Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

  • Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Moore Square Park, Downtown Raleigh

  • Admission: Free (so no excuses!)

  What’s Cookin’?

  The star of the show? Tamales, of course! Local chefs, home cooks, and tamale enthusiasts bring their secret recipes to compete for the crown of Raleigh’s Best Tamale. From classic pork and chicken to veggie and creative modern twists, there’s something to tempt every palate. 🌶️

  But that’s not all—there’s a whole lineup of food trucks, Latin treats, drinks, and artisan crafts. It’s basically a one-stop shop for fun, flavor, and a little fiesta flair.

  Music, Dancing & Family Fun

  No festival is complete without music, and this one delivers! Live bands, dancing, and cultural performances fill the park with rhythm and energy. Bring the kids for interactive activities, face painting, and a chance to learn a few dance moves—they’ll thank you later! 💃🕺

  Why You Can’t Miss It

  • Cultural Celebration: It’s a taste of Latin American traditions, all wrapped up in a cozy corn husk. Learn about heritage, music, and stories behind every tamale.

  • Community Vibes: Meet neighbors, cheer on competitors, and soak in the friendly, festive energy.

  • Local Flavor: Support Raleigh’s local food makers, artisans, and small businesses while enjoying something truly delicious.

  • BBQ, Bands & Fun at Redford Park

    Get ready for a tasty and musical Saturday at the Rolesville BBQ & Bands Festival! Join the community Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 12–6 PM at Redford Place Park for an afternoon of smoky barbecue, lively music, and family-friendly fun.

    Local vendors will serve up all your BBQ favorites, while the Kid Zone keeps little ones entertained. The live music lineup includes Partly Rowdy, Just Fine, and Who's Bad—a Michael Jackson tribute—to keep the energy high all day.

    Admission is free, making this a perfect outing for friends and family. Come enjoy great food, live music, and a celebration of community at Redford Place Park!

Shaquille O’Neal Supports Grieving Family in North Carolina

In a powerful act of compassion, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal stepped in to support a North Carolina family devastated by a tragic house fire. On August 30, 2025, a fire in Chadbourne claimed the lives of four young sisters—Kalani Rae, Kendall Xaiya, Josephina Renee, and Sophia Nachelle—leaving their father, Patrick Ellis, and his 11-year-old daughter, Willow, as the sole survivors.

Moved by the family's loss, O’Neal, who also serves as the Director of Community Relations for the Henry County Sheriff's Office, collaborated with Sheriff Reginald Scandrett to fully cover all expenses associated with the girls' memorial and related costs. O’Neal emphasized his moral responsibility to support the family, offering love and solidarity during this heartbreaking time.

A memorial service was scheduled for September 13, 2025, attended by sheriff’s office representatives. Patrick Ellis expressed his gratitude to the community for its support, requesting continued prayers during this painful time. Known for his generosity, O’Neal described his actions simply as “doing the right thing.”

This heartfelt gesture underscores the profound impact of community support and the enduring power of kindness in times of tragedy.

"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)

55 Plus - The New Silver Standard

Bananas or cherries, which is healthier?

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Check out our online calendar for more events and local activities!📌

What’s Happening Today?

🎶 Music & Festivals

🎸 Carolina Indie Fest

• Dates: Friday, September 26 (6–10 p.m.) & Saturday, September 27 (3–9:30 p.m.)

• Location: Hugger Mugger, Sanford, NC

• Details: Enjoy performances by 10 bands over two days, along with arts and craft vendors and food trucks.

• Website: Carolina Indie Fest

🎶 Mead Fest

• Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025 (12–5 p.m.)

• Location: Starrlight Mead, Pittsboro, NC

• Details: Experience a mini-Renaissance festival featuring sword fighting demos, mead tastings, live music, and costumes.

• Website: Mead Fest

🍏 Apple & Pumpkin Fun

🍎 Apple Festival at Historic Bethabara Park

• Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025 (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)

• Location: Historic Bethabara Park, Winston-Salem, NC

• Details: Enjoy regional music, colonial games, face painting, apple sales, and local food vendors.

• Website: Apple Festival

🎭 Theater & Comedy

🎭 “Peter and the Wolf” by Durham Medical Orchestra

• Date: Monday, September 29, 2025 (3:00 p.m.)

• Location: Grey Stone Church, Durham, NC

• Details: A free kids' concert featuring the classic tale of "Peter and the Wolf."

• Website: Peter and the Wolf

🍷 Wine & Romance

🍷 Taste of Lebanon Festival

• Dates: Saturday, September 27 (11 a.m.–10 p.m.) & Sunday, September 28 (12–6 p.m.)

• Location: Saint Sharbel Church, Raleigh, NC

• Details: Celebrate Lebanese culture with food, dance, music, and wine.

• Website: Taste of Lebanon

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

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