📫Celebdrate Red, White, and Blue| Wake Forest Names Julius Jefferson as Permanent Police Chief | Blueberry Spill Shuts Down I-95📍

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Hello friends!

WOW—you all are amazing!
I’ve been blown away by the incredible feedback on our new “Heart and Humanity” stories and the “Amazon Coupon” section! I had no idea just how much you’d love them, but your messages, smiles, and support say it all. 😊

Your feedback truly means the world to me—this newsletter is yours, and we want it to bring joy, value, and all the good stuff straight to your inbox. So keep those suggestions coming!

💌 Keep spreading the word and telling your friends—the more, the merrier!
🛒 P.S. Don’t miss the grocery coupons at the bottom (hello, savings!)
📅 P.P.S. The events calendar just got a fresh update—check it out for fun things to do this weekend!

Wishing you a fantastic, joy-filled weekend! 💛

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

📍 Be sure to check the “Amazon Coupons” daily. It changes every day!! 📍

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

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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🎉 From Fashion to Gadgets – The Deals Are Always Changing! 🎉
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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why don’t weekends ever get a speeding ticket?

Because they always cruise by! 😄

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

The town of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, has some of the coldest and snowiest weather in the state—even in late spring! ❄️🌸🌞🌧️

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🦬 When Buffalo Roamed North Carolina

Long before highways and high-rises, when North Carolina’s landscape was thick with forests and wide open meadows, buffalo once roamed free across the state. Yes, it’s true—Eastern woodland bison, a smaller cousin of the iconic Great Plains buffalo, called parts of North Carolina home.

These massive animals were a common sight in the Piedmont and mountain regions of North Carolina. Early explorers and settlers recorded seeing herds moving through forests and grazing near rivers. Buffalo Creek, a name still used in several counties like Cleveland, Guilford, and Mecklenburg, is a lasting reminder of their presence.

Sadly, by the late 1700s, buffalo were completely gone from North Carolina. As settlers expanded westward, the bison were overhunted for meat and hides, and their forest habitats were cleared for farms and towns. With their roaming grounds disappearing and increasing pressure from human activity, these gentle giants were pushed out—vanishing from the state and most of the East Coast.

While wild buffalo no longer roam North Carolina, the story isn’t over. Conservation efforts across the country have been working to bring bison populations back—especially in the Midwest and West. And here in NC, a few private farms and wildlife reserves now raise bison, both to preserve the species and educate the public about their history.

You can even see bison up close today at places like:

• The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro

• Yellow Wolf Farm in Walkertown

• Buffalo Creek Farm and Creamery in Germanton

These programs help protect the legacy of the buffalo and keep their story alive for future generations.

Buffalo are more than just majestic animals—they're a living symbol of our history, our natural heritage, and our responsibility to protect the wild places we love. Learning about them reminds us how quickly nature can disappear if we’re not careful—and how powerful we can be when we choose to protect it.

So next time you see the word “Buffalo” on a North Carolina map, remember: the land you’re standing on once rumbled beneath the hooves of bison, and with care and effort, their spirit still roams here today.

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

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Blueberry Spill Snarls I-95

A tractor-trailer loaded with blueberries overturned on I-95 in Johnston County early Tuesday, spilling its cargo across the highway and bringing traffic to a halt. The driver, now facing charges, reportedly took a curve too fast. Cleanup crews spent hours clearing the sticky mess, while passing drivers snapped photos of the unusual jam. The scent of crushed berries lingered long after the lanes reopened.

Wake Forest Names Julius Jefferson as Permanent Police Chief

The Town of Wake Forest has officially appointed Julius Jefferson as its permanent Chief of Police, removing the "interim" title he has held since February. Jefferson, a Warren County native, has served with the Wake Forest Police Department for nearly 20 years, working his way up from patrol officer to captain before assuming the interim chief role earlier this year. Town Manager Kip Padgett praised Jefferson’s leadership, integrity, and deep commitment to community safety, stating he was the clear choice following a nationwide search. Jefferson’s appointment marks a new chapter for the department as it continues to build on a foundation of trust and service.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Red, White, and Blue

As Independence Day approaches, communities nationwide are preparing to honor the holiday with festive events and patriotic spirit. From backyard barbecues to lively parades and spectacular fireworks, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate freedom and enjoy summer fun.

Around Wake County, local festivities will include music, food vendors, games for all ages, and plenty of classic American favorites like hot dogs and apple pie. Families and friends will gather to share good times and create lasting memories under the stars.

So wave your flags, wear your red, white, and blue, and join in the celebration of our nation’s independence. Here’s to a joyful and safe Fourth of July filled with pride and community spirit! For a complete list of 4th of July Celebrations,

Wake Forest

• Fireworks Spectacular — July 3 at Heritage High School, gates open at 5:30 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

• Children’s Parade — July 4 at 10:30 a.m., starting at North Main Street and West Juniper Avenue.

• Art & More in the Park — July 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wake Forest Community House with crafts and free hot dogs.

Raleigh

• City of Raleigh Fireworks — July 4 at Carter-Finley Stadium, gates open at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

• Brier Creek Block Party & Fireworks — July 4, 8 to 10 p.m. at Brier Creek Commons.

Cary Independence Day Celebration — July 4, 3:30 to 10 p.m. at Koka Booth Amphitheatre with concerts and fireworks.

Garner Independence Day Celebration — July 3, 5 to 10 p.m. at Lake Benson Park featuring a concert by the North Carolina Symphony, kids’ activities, and fireworks.

Rolesville 4th Celebration — July 4, 5 to 9 p.m. at Redford Place Park with food trucks, live music, and fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

NC Foster Care Reform Bill Heads to Governor

North Carolina lawmakers have passed a major foster care reform bill, now awaiting Governor Roy Cooper’s signature. The bipartisan legislation aims to improve oversight, expand mental health support, and streamline foster parent licensing.

Supporters say the changes will strengthen protections for vulnerable children and increase accountability for agencies. If signed, the reforms will take effect later this year.

Sip Happens: Napa Bistro & Wine Bar Brings California Cool to Glenwood Place

If you've been California dreaming, your taste buds are in for a golden treat. Napa Bistro & Wine Bar is now pouring in Raleigh’s Glenwood Place at 3700 Glenwood Ave, Suite 100, bringing West Coast flair to the heart of the Carolinas.

This laid-back yet elevated spot channels Napa Valley vibes with a menu full of fresh, wine-country-inspired fare, a swoon-worthy selection of wines and craft cocktails, and a cozy-chic ambiance perfect for date night, girls’ night out, or just because-it’s-Tuesday night.

From artisan cheese boards to seasonal bites and beautifully balanced drinks, Napa Bistro makes every meal feel like a mini getaway. So whether you’re a cabernet connoisseur or just in it for the vibes, consider your passport stamped.

We'll be on the patio, sipping in style—because at Napa, every hour is West Coast happy hour.

Spice, Sizzle & Seoul: BIBIBOP Fires Up Wake Forest with Fresh Asian Fusion Flair

Our Restaurant Pick of the Week!

Wake Forest, get ready to take your taste buds on a joyride—because things just got sizzlin’. Say hello to BIBIBOP Asian Grill, the newest crave-worthy hotspot to land at 535 Dr. Calvin Jones Hwy, Suite 140—and trust us, this is not your average rice bowl joint.

Part healthy haven, part flavor explosion, BIBIBOP is where East meets fresh—serving up customizable Korean-inspired bowls stacked with seasoned meats, vibrant veggies, and sauces that’ll make your soul sing (and your lips tingle, in the best way). Think of it as your guilt-free go-to where bold taste and good vibes collide.

Whether you’re building your bowl with spicy chicken, sweet potato noodles, and a drizzle of fan-fave Yum Yum sauce, or going full veggie with tofu and sesame ginger magic, one thing’s certain: you’ll leave full, happy, and maybe just a little addicted.

And did we mention the whole menu is gluten-free? That’s right—BIBIBOP is serving up flavor without the fuss, in a bright, modern space perfect for lunch breaks, casual dinners, or a fiery little midweek pick-me-up.

So grab your chopsticks (or a fork—we don’t judge) and come taste what all the buzz is about. Wake Forest just got a whole lot spicier. 🔥🥢

🌟 Showing Up When It Counts: The Kai Ritchie Story

On a recent episode of Good Morning Wake County, host Steve Rhode shared an inspiring story about 22-year-old Kai Ritchie from Cary. Just days before his birthday, Kai suffered a serious head-on crash on I-40 near Raleigh, leaving him facing a long road to recovery.

But instead of stepping back, the community stepped up—with heart and hands.

Workers from Dominion Energy, staff from WakeMed, and local volunteers came together to repaint, landscape, and add safety features to Kai’s family clinic, thanks in part to support from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. Their goal? To turn the clinic into a warm, inviting place that welcomes everyone who walks through the door.

The result? More than just a fresh new look—it’s a powerful message to Kai and his family: “We’ve got your back.” This wave of kindness brought the Ritchie family not only hope and healing but also a renewed sense of community pride.

"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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We just updated the “Events Calendar” for this weekend. Be sure to check it out!

:🎉 What’s Happening in Wake County This Weekend?

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Wake County has you covered with a variety of exciting events for all ages and interests:

Juneteenth Celebration — Wake Forest
📅 Saturday, June 21
Celebrate freedom and heritage at the annual Juneteenth event in Wake Forest. Enjoy a lively parade, live music, delicious food vendors, and family-friendly activities that bring the community together in unity and joy.

Live Music: The Embers at Renaissance Centre
📅 Saturday, June 21 at 7:30 PM
Catch The Embers, beloved for their classic beach music sound, as they perform live at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. A perfect evening for music lovers and community spirit.

Family Theater: Peter and the Starcatcher (ASL-Interpreted)
📅 Saturday, June 21 at 2:00 PM
Experience the magical prequel to Peter Pan in an ASL-interpreted performance. A wonderful theatrical outing for families and theater fans alike.

NASCAR Racing at Wake County Speedway
📅 Friday, June 20 at 7:00 PM
Feel the adrenaline rush of live racing at the Wake County Speedway with the NASCAR Regional Season’s Denny’s of Garner 165. Perfect for motorsports enthusiasts looking for fast-paced excitement.

No matter your interests, Wake County offers something to make your weekend memorable. Get out and enjoy all that our community has to offer!

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

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!

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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] 

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