📫Car Insurance Rates Rising | Raleigh Shop & Rock | Woman in Custody After Gunfire in Holly Springs📍

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Hello friends!

So, we just celebrated National Lasagna Day — because who doesn’t love layers of cheesy, saucy goodness? Naturally, the next big holiday HAS to be National Cheesecake Day (July 30th) — because after all that pasta, you need a sweet, creamy reward, right?

Here’s a little pro tip for you: a slice of cheesecake can clock in at around 400 to 500 calories. But hey, calories don’t count when you’re celebrating, especially if you eat it while dancing or laughing. So go ahead — indulge like it’s your full-time job! Just maybe don’t tell your gym trainer.

Celebrate, savor, and save me a slice (or two)!

Cheesily yours,

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

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Why did the cheesecake go to therapy?
Because it felt a little crumby inside! 🧀🍰😄

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

🥛 Did you know?
The world’s largest cheesecake was made in Mexico in 2019, weighing over 10,000 pounds—enough to feed thousands!

The Cheesecake Factory – Crabtree Valley Mall, Raleigh

• Deal: Enjoy 50% off any slice of cheesecake (including the new Peach Perfect with Raspberry Drizzle) when you dine in as a Cheesecake Rewards member.

• Details:

  • Offer valid only on July 30, 2025, for dine-in guests.

  • Limit of one discounted slice per guest, up to six guests per party.

  • Each guest must be present to redeem.

  • Not valid for takeout or delivery.

• New Flavor: Peach Perfect with Raspberry Drizzle—a peach cheesecake swirled with peaches, on a vanilla crust, finished with raspberry sauce.

• Charity Tie-In: For every slice of this new flavor sold through July 29, 2026, The Cheesecake Factory will donate 25 cents to Feeding America.

🍰 A Cheesecake Lover – Wake Forest

• Event: Celebrate National Cheesecake Day with special promotions.

• Details:

  • First 10 customers receive a free slice of Strawberry Lover cheesecake with purchase.

  • Walk-in deals and promotions on DoorDash and UberEats available.

  • Choose from 15 gourmet cheesecake flavors.

  • Pre-orders recommended; however, plenty of cheesecake will be available.

• Location: 11016 Capital Boulevard, Wake Forest, NC

• Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM on July 30, 2025.

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Sweet Carolina: How North Carolina’s Juicy Peaches Meet Creamy Cheesecake Perfection

When you think of North Carolina, you might picture rolling mountains, historic towns, or the buzz of city life in Raleigh and Charlotte. But one of the state’s sweetest claims to fame is its juicy, flavorful peaches — and when those luscious peaches meet the creamy, dreamy world of cheesecake, magic happens.

North Carolina’s peach season typically peaks in July and August, offering some of the freshest, most delicious peaches you’ll find anywhere in the country. These peaches aren’t just for eating fresh or making pies — local bakers and dessert artisans have taken the peach’s sweet and tangy flavor and blended it seamlessly into cheesecake recipes that will have you swooning.

Imagine a slice of rich, velvety cheesecake layered with ripe peach slices, peach puree swirled throughout, or even a buttery crust infused with pecans, another North Carolina favorite. It’s the perfect marriage of Southern charm and indulgence. Whether it’s a classic New York-style cheesecake topped with fresh peach compote or a no-bake peach cheesecake bursting with summer sunshine, this dessert combo highlights the best of North Carolina’s agriculture and culinary creativity.

Many Wake County bakeries and restaurants take pride in featuring seasonal peach cheesecakes, especially during National Peach Month and National Cheesecake Day, making it a local favorite among dessert lovers.

So, next time you bite into a peach-infused cheesecake, remember: it’s not just dessert—it’s a delicious celebration of North Carolina’s rich farming heritage and the simple joy of sweet, creamy goodness.

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Woman in Custody After Gunfire in Holly Springs

Holly Springs, NC — A woman was taken into custody Saturday afternoon after police say she fired a gun in the 12 Oaks neighborhood during a mental health crisis.

The incident happened around 12:30 p.m. on Sage Oak Lane. No injuries or property damage were reported.

Police say the woman faces several misdemeanor charges, including assault with a deadly weapon and firing a gun within city limits. The investigation is ongoing. Read More

Crime Rates in Wake County Remain Lower Than National Average

Wake County continues to stand out as a relatively safe place to live, with both violent and property crime rates well below the national average. Recent data shows Wake County's violent crime rate at 16.9, compared to the U.S. average of 22.7, and a property crime rate of 43.2, slightly above the national rate of 35.4.

While these numbers reflect encouraging trends, law enforcement officials remind residents that no community is crime-free. Ongoing community engagement and awareness remain key to maintaining and improving safety across the county. Read More

Wake County Utility Bills See Modest Increase Starting July

Wake County residents receiving service through Raleigh Water will notice a small increase in their utility bills starting July, 2025. The average household will pay about $1.91 more per month, reflecting a 4% rate hike approved as part of Raleigh’s new budget.

The increase helps cover infrastructure upgrades and rising operational costs to ensure safe, reliable water and sewer services. Although the rates remain among the lowest in North Carolina, residents are encouraged to monitor their usage and explore assistance options if needed.

Financial help is available through Raleigh Water’s Utility Customer Assistance Program (UCAP), and Wake County also offers support for those facing economic hardship. Read More

Car Insurance Rates Rising for Wake County Drivers

Wake County residents will see higher car insurance costs starting October 1, 2025, as part of a statewide 5% rate increase approved by regulators—far lower than the 23% hike insurers originally requested.

Beginning July, new state laws also raise minimum liability coverage, doubling the property damage limit and increasing bodily injury coverage. These changes will likely cause a small bump in premiums, averaging around $44 more per year.

Drivers should also note longer penalty periods: surcharges for new drivers now last up to 8 years, and insurance points from traffic violations can impact rates for up to 5 years.

While North Carolina still offers some of the nation’s lowest rates, Wake County drivers are encouraged to shop around, maintain clean records, and explore discounts to manage rising costs. Read More

NC Man Wins $318K Jackpot from $1 Lottery Ticket

Maggie Valley, NC — Michael Mancuso Jr. trusted his gut and it paid off big. The North Carolina man bought a $1 Cash 5 Quick Pick ticket and hit the $318,544 jackpot in the July 3 drawing.

“I was kind of in shock,” Mancuso said. He claimed his prize on July 22, taking home $228,556 after taxes. He plans to share the winnings with family and buy a new motorcycle. Read More

Raleigh Shop & Rock:

Battle of the Bands Comes to City Plaza on August 1

Get ready, Raleigh! On Friday, August 1, City Plaza and Davie Street will come alive from 2 PM to 9 PM with Raleigh Shop & Rock: Battle of the Bands — a lively celebration of music, food, and local culture.

Enjoy fierce competition as local bands battle it out on the main stage, hosted by Adam Lee Decker. Between sets, explore more than 80 vendors featuring handmade crafts, original art, and unique gifts.

Feeling hungry? A variety of food trucks will offer delicious eats, from gourmet burgers to international flavors and sweet treats. Need a break? Visit the beer and wine garden hosted by Elements Restaurant to relax and refresh.

Best of all, the event is free and family-friendly, making it the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon and evening in downtown Raleigh.

Don’t miss this vibrant mix of live music, tasty food, and local shopping on August 1 at City Plaza! Read More

Community Comes Together to Feed Families in Need in Chicago

In July 2025, Chicago witnessed an inspiring act of kindness when local nonprofit leader Angela Martinez organized the “Summer Share Food Drive,” which provided over 5,000 meals to families struggling with food insecurity in the city’s South Side neighborhoods.

The initiative, held from July 10th through July 20th, involved more than 150 volunteers who packed and distributed boxes filled with fresh produce, pantry staples, and prepared meals. Angela partnered with local grocery stores, farms, and restaurants—including Greenfield Farms and La Cocina del Barrio—to source donations.

One volunteer, Marcus Thompson, shared, “Seeing the community come together to support families who are going through tough times was truly heartwarming. It’s a reminder that when we unite, we can make a real difference.”

The Summer Share Food Drive has become an annual event, growing each year thanks to the dedication of organizers and volunteers. Angela hopes that the program not only feeds families but also inspires others to lend a hand in their communities.

"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

What are some things that existed when you were a kid but are no longer around for today’s younger generation?

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

📅 July 30, 2025

🎶 Live Music & Social Events

• Summer Concert Series at PNC Plaza

  • Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Location: PNC Plaza, Raleigh

  • Details: Enjoy live music performances by local bands, food trucks, and craft vendors in a vibrant outdoor setting.

  • Website: PNC Plaza Events 

• Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market

  • Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Location: City Plaza, Raleigh

  • Details: Explore a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and live music performances.

  • Website: Raleigh Farmers Market 

🍷 Wine Tastings & Culinary Events

• NC Wine Festival

  • Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

  • Details: Sample wines from over 30 North Carolina wineries, enjoy live music, and local food vendors.

  • Website: NC Wine Festival 

• Wine & Paint Night

  • Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Location: The Wine Feed, Raleigh

  • Details: Enjoy a guided painting session while sipping on a selection of wines.

  • Website: The Wine Feed Events 

📚 Library & Educational Events

• Fields of Fortune: North Carolina’s Legacy in Leaf and Labor

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Location: Z. Smith Reynolds Library, Wake Forest University

  • Details: Explore the historical significance of North Carolina's tobacco industry through archival materials and exhibits.

  • Website: Wake Forest University Events 

• Museum of World Cultures: Highlights from the UNC-Wilmington Collection

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Location: Lam Museum of Anthropology, Wake Forest University

  • Details: Discover a curated selection of artifacts showcasing global cultures.

  • Website: Wake Forest University Events 

🎨 Arts & Cultural Experiences

• The Backyard Film Project: A Creative Summer Camp for Teens

  • Time: All Day

  • Location: The Wright Village, Raleigh

  • Details: A week-long summer day-camp for teenage filmmakers and young storytellers.

  • Website: Trip.com Events 

• Art in Bloom Festival

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Location: North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh

  • Details: Experience floral arrangements inspired by artworks, live music, and family-friendly activities.

  • Website: NC Museum of Art Events

🧠 Workshops & Educational Programs

• Reiki II Class

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Location: Unity Holistic Wellness Center, Raleigh

  • Details: A class focusing on advanced Reiki techniques for personal healing.

  • Website: Unity Holistic Wellness Center

• Gentle Yoga + Soundbath

  • Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

  • Location: Unity Holistic Wellness Center, Raleigh

  • Details: A calming session combining gentle yoga poses with sound healing.

  • Website: Unity Holistic Wellness Center

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]