📫Copperhead Snake Alert | Daycare Worker Charged with Child Abuse | Wake County Schools Test Results📍

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Hello friends!

I hope your week is off to a wonderful start. Did you know today is National Pledge of Allegiance Day? It’s a day to reflect on the values our flag represents — unity, freedom, and the promise of opportunity for all.

Reciting the Pledge may be something many of us learned as kids, but it’s also a reminder as adults of the shared ideals that bring our communities together. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about today, take a moment to appreciate what this simple tradition really stands for.

Wishing you a bright and meaningful Monday — let’s carry that spirit of unity with us all week long!

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! 🎉
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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

“Mondays are like math… I know they’re important, but I’d really rather avoid them!”

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

• Origin of the Pledge: The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, a Baptist minister and native of Mount Morris, NY. While not from NC, the Pledge became widely recited in North Carolina schools in the early 20th century, especially after the 1942 NC law encouraged daily recitation in public schools.

• School Tradition: Many North Carolina schools still observe daily or weekly recitations of the Pledge, making it a longstanding tradition in classrooms across the state.

🎶 2025 North Carolina Folk Festival — Free & Family-Friendly!

Save the date, September 12–14, 2025, and head downtown to Greensboro for the North Carolina Folk Festival, a lively celebration of music, dance, and culture for all ages — and the best part? It’s completely free!

• 50+ live performances across five stages, showcasing everything from Appalachian folk and bluegrass to Latin soul and indie rock.

• Headline acts: Sammy Rae & The Friends (Friday), Arrested Development (Saturday), and Steep Canyon Rangers (Sunday).

• New this year: a fifth stage at The Flat Iron, keeping the music going all weekend!

• Family fun: interactive activities like The Rock and Roll Playhouse: Music of the Grateful Dead for Kids and Paw Patrol Live! for the little ones.

• 📅 Dates: September 12–14, 2025

• 📍 Location: Downtown Greensboro, NC

• 🎟️ Admission: Free!

• ⏰ Hours:

  • Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM

  • Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM

  • Sunday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM

As one of the Southeast’s largest and most cherished cultural events, the festival draws thousands of visitors eager to enjoy the sights, sounds, and spirit of folk music.

For the full lineup and more info, visit: ncfolkfestival.com

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⚠️ Copperhead Snake Alert: Blending with Fall Leaves

As cooler weather arrives and the trees begin their colorful transformation, residents across North Carolina are reminded to stay alert for copperhead snakes. Known for their coppery-brown patterned scales, these snakes are masters of camouflage—especially in autumn when fallen leaves create the perfect backdrop for them to blend in.

Copperheads have distinctive hourglass-shaped markings in shades of tan, copper, and chestnut. During fall, these markings mimic the scattered, crunchy leaves on the ground, making them nearly invisible until someone steps too close. Most copperhead encounters happen when people are walking through leaf piles, working in gardens, or hiking wooded trails without realizing a snake is nearby.

As temperatures drop, copperheads become less active but are still on the move in search of warm spots to bask or hunt. They may be found near sunny patches, woodpiles, or even under porches and decks. While they are generally non-aggressive, they will strike if they feel threatened or stepped on.

Copperheads typically begin hibernating—or more accurately, going into brumation (a reptile’s version of hibernation)—once consistent cold weather sets in, usually around late October to early November in North Carolina. They seek shelter in rock crevices, burrows, or abandoned dens, where they remain mostly inactive until spring. On warmer winter days, however, it’s not unheard of for them to briefly emerge.

Wake County Daycare Worker Charged with Child Abuse

Wake County authorities have charged a daycare worker with child abuse following an investigation into allegations of mistreatment at a local childcare center. Officials say the allegations surfaced after parents noticed unusual bruising and reported concerning behavior in their children.

The accused, whose name has not yet been released, has been placed on administrative leave, and the daycare is cooperating fully with law enforcement. Authorities stress that child safety is the top priority and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Parents in the community expressed shock and concern, with some saying they now plan to monitor daycare facilities more closely. “You never think something like this could happen so close to home,” said one parent. “We just want to make sure our kids are safe.

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Wake County Schools 2024–25 State Test Results

Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) showed notable academic progress in the 2024–25 school year. Math proficiency led the way, with high school Math 3 scores rising 7.4% and Millbrook High School seeing an 8.6% increase, thanks to enhanced teaching strategies and student support programs. Reading scores for grades 3–8 improved slightly to 64.4%, signaling modest recovery though still below pre-pandemic levels. The district’s five-year graduation rate climbed to 93.1%, reflecting the impact of targeted academic interventions. Over half of WCPSS schools earned A or B ratings, demonstrating strong overall performance. While challenges remain, particularly in reading, continued focus on resources and support programs positions the district for sustained growth in the coming years. Read More

A Car Chase Into Wake County

A police chase that began in Johnston County ended in a three-vehicle crash in Wake County, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Troopers say the pursuit started when a driver refused to stop for authorities in Johnston County. The chase continued into Wake County, where the suspect’s vehicle collided with two other cars. The crash brought the pursuit to an end.

Officials reported that injuries were sustained, though the extent has not yet been released. The Highway Patrol confirmed that the driver involved in the chase has been taken into custody. Read More

🍂 Two Picture-Perfect NC Fall Getaways 🍂

As the leaves begin to change, North Carolina transforms into a painter’s canvas of reds, oranges, and golds. If you’re dreaming of a quick autumn escape, here are two destinations that promise postcard-worthy views, cozy charm, and plenty of fall magic.

🍁 Blowing Rock – The Crown of the Blue Ridge
Nestled along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock is a storybook town that comes alive in autumn. Scenic drives here are unbeatable, with overlooks that stretch for miles over colorful mountain ridges. Stop at Moses Cone Memorial Park for an easy walk surrounded by fall foliage, or enjoy the peaceful beauty of Price Lake. After exploring, warm up in town with boutique shopping, local dining, and a cozy cabin stay.

🍂 Asheville & the Biltmore Estate
Few places embrace fall quite like Asheville. Surrounded by mountains, this vibrant city offers endless opportunities for leaf-peeping and adventure. Stroll through the historic Biltmore Estate, where gardens glow with autumn hues and wine tastings make for a perfect afternoon. Then, head into Pisgah National Forest or the Blue Ridge Parkway for hiking trails framed by fiery leaves. In the evenings, Asheville’s eclectic restaurants and craft breweries keep the spirit of fall alive.

Peak fall colors in western North Carolina usually arrive between mid-October and early November, depending on elevation. Plan a weekend getaway during this window for the most dazzling views.

NC Teens Build a New Home for Their Neighbor

In the small town of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, a remarkable act of kindness unfolded this spring as students from Mountain Heritage High School turned their classroom lessons into a life-changing gift. Under the guidance of carpentry teacher Jeremy Dotts, a group of dedicated teens rolled up their sleeves to construct a tiny home for Sherry Housley, a local artist who had been displaced when Hurricane Helene swept through the region.

For Housley, the hurricane had been devastating. “I was flooded with water; now I’m flooded with angels,” she shared with People.com, her eyes welling with tears as she surveyed the completed home. The tiny house, crafted from scratch by the students, was more than wood and nails—it was a symbol of community, resilience, and the power of young people stepping up to help their neighbors in need.

Dotts, who has long encouraged hands-on projects in his carpentry program, said, “This isn’t just about building a house; it’s about teaching compassion, responsibility, and the impact one group can make when they work together.” The students embraced that mission wholeheartedly, learning valuable skills while giving Housley a safe and welcoming place to call home once again.

The project’s impact extends beyond a single family. Inspired by this effort, Dotts and the Mountain Heritage community hope to scale the initiative, creating opportunities for other families affected by natural disasters to rebuild their lives, one tiny home at a time.

In Spruce Pine, the sawdust has settled, but the spirit of solidarity lingers, a vivid reminder that even in the face of loss, generosity and community can turn tragedy into hope.

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

What’s Happening Today?

🎤 Comedy & Entertainment

• 😂 Martin Lawrence Live – Lenovo Center
  🕗 Time: 8:00 PM
  📍 Location: Lenovo Center, Raleigh
  💃 Perfect for: Couples & adults
  🎟️ Enjoy an evening of laughs with comedy legend Martin Lawrence on his American Heart World Tour.
  More info

• 🎭 Black Sheep Comedy Improv: Intro to Long-Form
  🕘 Time: 9:00 AM
  📍 Location: Wake County Community Center
  💡 Perfect for: Adults & seniors
  ✨ Beginner-friendly improv class exploring long-form comedy skills.
  More info

🎨 Arts & Crafts

• 🧶 Stitch Club
  🕥 Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
  📍 Morrisville Community Library, 310 Town Hall Drive
  👵 Perfect for: Adults & seniors
  ✂️ Social gathering for knitting, crocheting, and fiber arts enthusiasts. Bring your current project!
  More info

📚 Kids & Family Fun

• 📖 Family Storytime
  🕤 Time: 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM
  📍 Middle Creek Community Library, 111 Middle Creek Park Ave, Apex
  👶 Perfect for: Kids & families
  🎶 Enjoy stories, songs, and activities designed to encourage early literacy.
  More info

🍷 Wine & Relaxation

• 🍇 After the Fest at Slim's
  🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  📍 Location: Downtown Raleigh
  💑 Perfect for: Couples & adults
  🍷 Sample a variety of wines in a relaxed, social setting.
  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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