Hello friends!
Can you believe itβs already the end of July? As we cruise through the week, I wanted to send a little fun your way β because today is National Chili Dog Day! ππ₯
Yep, a whole day dedicated to that delicious, messy, cheesy, chili-covered masterpiece we all secretly crave. Whether you like yours loaded with onions, extra cheese, or just plain classic chili, todayβs the perfect excuse to treat yourself. Maybe even double down with a side of fries or a cold drink. (I wonβt tell!)
So hereβs my challenge to you: Grab a chili dog today, snap a pic, and savor every bite. Consider it a tiny celebration of the little joys β because sometimes, itβs the simple things that make life tasty and bright.
Wishing you a day full of smiles, good vibes, and maybe a chili dog or two!
See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane
π§¨Check Out Our Hot Dealsπ§¨
Yard Sales Are Posted On Friday
βPhilippians 4:6
βDo not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.β

π Sonic Drive-In
Deal: Get $1 Corn Dogs, $2 All-American Dogs, and $3 Footlong Quarter Pound Coneys.
Details: Each offer can be redeemed once per week, with deals resetting every Monday throughout July. You may need the app to participate.
π From Fashion to Gadgets β The Deals Are Always Changing! π
Every day brings new savings, and weβre here to hook you up! Whether youβre shopping for a birthday, Christmas, a last-minute gift, or just treating yourself (because why not?), weβve got your back with fresh coupons and awesome deals β all through our link!
We hustle daily so you can save big for you and your family.
β¨ Click. Shop. Save. Repeat. β¨
Please note that for some deals you mayneed to be an Amazon member.
π Todayβs Chuckle π
Why donβt chili dogs ever get invited to fancy parties?
Because theyβre always a little too saucy! ππ
π North Carolina Triva π
π₯ Did you know?
The oldest hot dog joint in Wake County is Shortyβs Famous Hot Dogs in downtown Wake Forest, established in 1916. Originally a movie theater, it became a hot dog stand in the 1920s under Millard βShortyβ Joyner. Now run by his fourth-generation family member, Chris Joyner, Shortyβs is famous for its bright-red hot dogs served on steamed buns with chili, mustard, and fresh onions.
Other historic Wake County favorites include The Roast Grill in Raleigh, opened in 1940, and Snoopyβs Hot Dogs & More, serving since 1978.
How many hot dogs do Americans eat each year?


Enjoy Our βDid You Know Sectionβ About North Carolina. Need to get away? Visit Beautiful North Carolina!
Shortyβs Famous Hot Dogs: A Wake County Culinary Landmark Since 1916
For over a century, Shortyβs Famous Hot Dogs has been a beloved fixture in downtown Wake Forest, North Carolina. Established in 1916, this iconic eatery originally started as a movie theater before transforming into a hot dog stand in the 1920s under the ownership of Millard βShortyβ Joyner.
Today, Shortyβs is proudly run by the fourth generation of the Joyner family, carrying on a rich tradition of serving up their signature bright-red βredβ hot dogs. Known for their steamed buns topped with homemade chili, mustard, and freshly chopped onions, these dogs offer a nostalgic taste of classic Southern comfort food.
But the menu doesnβt stop there β customers also enjoy hearty burgers, crispy onion rings, and crinkle-cut cheese fries, all in a setting filled with vintage memorabilia and a friendly, family atmosphere.
Shortyβs isnβt just a restaurant; itβs a living piece of Wake County history and a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic, time-tested hot dogs.
If you havenβt yet experienced Shortyβs Famous Hot Dogs, itβs well worth the trip to Wake Forest to taste a true local legend.

Call Marie at 352-585-5259
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π©π‘Β If you want to chat about making a move, fill out this FORM and I can contact you with information!
Iβm Marie! As a former teacher turned realtor, I help families relocate to Wake County with expert guidance on school zoning and the market. Iβm all about making the process stress-free and enjoyable. When Iβm not working, Iβm probably fostering dogs, reading, or supporting local businesses!Β Follow me on social media for real estate tips, local updates, and cute pups!
Check Out Our New Downloadable Home Buyerβs Guide! π

Whatβs Happening in Wake County?
Sinkhole Reopens Near Village District in Raleigh
A burst underground pipe has reopened a sinkhole along Frank Street near the Village District, forcing emergency crews to shut down the area for repairs.
The sinkhole is tied to aging stormwater infrastructureβan ongoing issue across Raleigh, where decades-old pipes frequently cause failures. The City of Raleigh has closed the 600 block of Frank Street between Brookside Drive and Norris Street, with detours in place.
This marks another infrastructure failure in a city grappling with crumbling underground systems. Similar problems have been reported in nearby neighborhoods like Glenwood and Creston. Read More
Breeze Airways Adds New Nonstop Flight from RDU
Breeze Airways is launching a new nonstop flight from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, starting December 11.
The flight will run twice a weekβon Thursdays and Sundaysβwith fares starting at just $49 one-way.
This marks another step in Breezeβs expansion at RDU, giving Triangle travelers a new low-cost option to explore New England. Read More
What to Know About Asteria: Disneyβs New Housing Development in North Carolina
Disney is bringing its Storyliving by Disney community concept to the East Coast with Asteria, a new housing development in Pittsboro, NC, about 45 minutes from Raleigh.
The community will cover 1,500 acres and include over 4,000 homesβsingle-family houses, townhomes, and a 55+ neighborhood.
Designed with input from Walt Disney Imagineering, Asteria will offer amenities like wellness centers, sports courts, community gardens, parks, and walking trails.
Sales are expected to begin in 2027, with construction already underway.
Asteria aims to create a unique neighborhood with Disneyβs signature focus on community, service, and storytelling.
For more details, visit the official site: storylivingbydisney.com/asteria.
Utility Scam Alert
Holly Springs Police warn residents of a phone scam targeting utility customers. Scammers are pretending to be town officials and asking for payment details. Residents should remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls to local authorities. Read More
Whataburger Coming to Grove 98 in Wake Forest
Whataburger has been officially announced as one of the newest tenants in the Grove 98 development, a Wegmans-anchored retail center located just within the Wake Forest town limits. Developers shared the news on July 30, 2025, confirming the popular fast-food chain will soon be part of this growing commercial hub. Read More
Food Recalls Affecting North Carolina
π₯ Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon
Recall Date: July 2, 2025
Reason: Possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Details: Affects fully cooked turkey bacon sold nationwide, including NC
π¦ YoCrunch Yogurt (Danone)
Recall Date: July 11, 2025
Reason: Plastic fragments in dome toppings (7β25 mm in size)
Details: Sold nationwide, including NC, at Walmart, Target, Dollar General
π¨ La Michoacana & Helados Mexico Ice Cream
Recall Date: July 25, 2025
Reason: Undeclared milk allergens
Details: Sold nationwide at Walmart and Dollar Tree, including NC
π§ Tuna Salad by Reserβs Fine Foods
Recall Date: July 16β19, 2025
Reason: Listeria-contaminated breadcrumbs in ready-to-eat meals
Details: Sold in multiple states including North Carolina via Albertsons, Jewel-Osco, etc.
More Info: Tuna Salad Recalled in 7 States Including NC
π Kayem Al Fresco Chicken Sausage
Recall Date: July 17, 2025
Reason: Plastic pieces in fully cooked sausage
Details: Distributed nationwide, including NC
SURPRISE-TODAY ONLY
Chipotle β Make an entree purchase, and get topping or a side of guacamole, for FREE on July 31 only! To get yours, use the code AVO2025Β at checkout!

Because we can all use some good news.
Right Here at Home
In an inspiring example of determination and academic excellence, Richard Basile, a former Panther Creek High School student from Cary, NC, accomplished a remarkable feat in 2025. At just 19 years old, Richard graduated from NC State University as valedictorian, completing his college degree in just one year. Thanks to North Carolinaβs Career & College Promise (CCP) program, Richard had already earned 70 college credits while still in high school. This allowed him to begin college as a junior in August 2024, and by May 2025, he had not only completed his degree in communication but done so at the top of his class.
Richard is now working as a communications specialist at Cisco and actively volunteers to promote the CCP program, helping other students and families understand how to take advantage of early college opportunities. His story is not just one of academic successβitβs also a testament to how access to education and a clear goal can open life-changing doors for young people in North Carolina.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
β Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Prime Time Living
55 Plus - The New Silver Standard
Fun and Frugal Challenges Every Retiree Should Take On
π July 31, 2025
πΆ Live Music & Outdoor Concerts
πΈ Outlaw Music Festival
Featuring Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Turnpike Troubadours & Charles Wesley Godwin
π Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
π Thursday, July 31 @ 6:00 PM
π€ Outdoor concert with legendary artists β perfect for date night, friend groups, or music lovers!
π Grab your lawn chairs and blankets!
π Theatre & Performing Arts
π Hadestown: Teen Edition
π Raleigh Little Theatre β Cantey V. Sutton Theatre
π July 31 β Sensory-Friendly Performance
π A youth-cast version of the award-winning musicalβideal for families, theater lovers, and those seeking inclusive events!
πΌοΈ Art & Gallery Exhibits
π¨ βHaiti As It Wasβ Exhibition
π Gallery C, Raleigh
π Final Day β July 31
π΅ Free Admission!
π Celebrate vibrant Haitian art from the late 20thβearly 21st century. A cultural gem!ποΈ NC Museum of Art (NCMA)
πΌοΈ Open galleries + πΏ sculpture trails & Museum Park
π Great for a casual walk, picnic, or sunset meet-up with friends or seniors
πΊ Markets, Music & Brews
πΆ Rhythm & Brews @ Raleigh Ironworks
π Thursday, July 31 | 6β9 PM
π Moore Square / Raleigh Ironworks
π» Chill social scene with live local bands, food trucks, and drinks
π« Great for couples, after-work hangs, and making new friends!
Be sure to click below to review our βEvents Calendarβ with over 100 events happening today and this week!
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πππ
If your business event, or restaurant, is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected]
βFor I know the plans I have for you,β declares the Lord, βplans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.β


















