📫Hillbilly Jam | Sea Turtle Hatchling Season | New Technique for Pediatric Heart Transplants | Free Baseball Clinic for Kids📍

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Hello friends!

Today is National Gorgeous Grandma Day — a beautiful reminder to celebrate the amazing grandmothers in our lives. Grandmas are the heart of our families, full of wisdom, love, and stories that shape who we are. Their beauty shines far beyond the surface; it’s in their kindness, strength, and endless care.

Take a moment today to reach out to your grandma — whether by phone, a sweet note, or a warm hug — and tell her just how much she means to you. Let her know how beautiful she is, inside and out. These simple words can brighten her day and remind her she’s cherished beyond measure.

To all the grandmas reading this: you are loved, appreciated, and truly gorgeous in every way.

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 📍

Why did Grandma bring a ladder to the family reunion?
Because she heard the memories were going way back! 😄

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

Did you know?

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states for seniors in the U.S.? With its mild climate, affordable cost of living, and many retirement-friendly communities, the state attracts retirees from across the country. In fact, by 2030, it’s projected that nearly 25% of North Carolina’s population will be age 60 or older—making it a great place for seniors to live, thrive, and stay active!

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Nestled in the Foorhills

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory, North Carolina, is a charming city offering a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, rich history, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you seek relaxation or exploration, Hickory has something special for every visitor. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Lake Hickory’s 105 miles of shoreline, perfect for boating, fishing, and watersports. The city’s 10-mile City Walk and River Walk trails connect parks and attractions, making it ideal for walking, jogging, or biking while taking in scenic views.

Cultural and historical sites abound, including the Hickory Museum of Art, which showcases American art from the 19th to 21st centuries and offers educational programs. Aviation fans will appreciate the free admission Hickory Aviation Museum, featuring a collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts. For those interested in local history, the Victorian-era Harper House provides guided tours and insight into the area’s heritage.

Hickory hosts vibrant annual events like the free outdoor Sails Original Music Series from May to September, the festive Oktoberfest celebration in September, and the joyful Christmas Parade & Candy Crawl in December. Shoppers will enjoy visiting the Hickory Furniture Mart, known for its quality furniture and wide selection, while food lovers can savor classic Southern cuisine and Carolina barbecue at local eateries.

The best time to visit Hickory is during spring or fall, when the weather is mild and nature is at its most beautiful with blooming flowers or vibrant foliage. Whether you’re drawn by outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or community events, Hickory offers a memorable and inviting destination for all.

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🎸 Hillbilly Jam – Maggie Valley, NC

Get ready for a fun-filled celebration of Appalachian culture at the Hillbilly Jam on July 25–26, 2025, at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. This lively festival features great live music—from bluegrass to country—delicious Southern food, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Enjoy classic car and bike shows, shop local crafts, and meet stars from the hit show Moonshiners. Don’t miss the exciting Hatfield & McCoy tug-of-war for some good old-fashioned fun.

The festival runs from 10 AM to 10 PM both days. Admission is $10 per day, with free entry for kids 10 and under.

Mark your calendar and experience the heart and soul of Appalachian heritage in Maggie Valley!

For details, visit thehillbillyjam.com or call 828-450-9795.

Sea Turtle Hatchling Season Begins Along North Carolina’s Coast

Sea turtle hatchling season is officially underway along North Carolina’s picturesque coast, with tiny turtles beginning their journey from sandy nests to the Atlantic Ocean. The Outer Banks, Bald Head Island, Emerald Isle, and other coastal areas are witnessing the first waves of hatchlings emerging under the cover of night.

Each summer, thousands of endangered sea turtles—mostly loggerheads—lay their eggs in nests buried deep in the warm beach sand. After incubating for about 60 days, the baby turtles instinctively crawl toward the ocean, guided by moonlight and natural instincts.

Conservation groups and volunteers are working around the clock to monitor nests, assist struggling hatchlings, and educate beachgoers. Visitors are encouraged to follow turtle-friendly practices such as avoiding bright lights at night, filling in beach holes, and keeping a safe distance from marked nesting sites.

With nesting numbers on the rise in recent years, experts are hopeful for a strong season. As hatchlings begin their treacherous trek to the sea, coastal communities are reminded of the delicate balance between tourism and wildlife protection. Read More

Chapel Hill Police Link Armed Robbery and Carjacking

CHAPEL HILL, NC — Police have confirmed that two recent violent crimes are connected: an armed robbery on Thursday night and a carjacking early Saturday morning.

In the first incident, a woman was followed from an ATM on Willow Drive and robbed at gunpoint outside her home. Two days later, three armed men carjacked two people near the Siena Hotel on East Franklin Street. The stolen vehicle was later found in Durham.

Investigators believe the same group of suspects is behind both crimes. No injuries were reported in either case.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact Chapel Hill PD or CrimeStoppers. A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered. Read More

Duke Doctors Pioneer Promising New Technique for Pediatric Heart Transplants

Doctors at Duke Health are testing a new method for pediatric heart transplants that could save more infant lives. The technique involves reviving and evaluating donor hearts from patients who died after circulatory death (DCD) without using expensive machines or controversial procedures.

Instead, surgeons briefly perfuse the heart with blood and oxygen on a sterile table to determine if it’s suitable for transplant. The approach has already helped save a 3-month-old infant and could expand the donor pool significantly.

Experts say the technique “shows a lot of promise” and may become a new standard in pediatric care, helping reduce high mortality rates among infants on heart transplant waitlists. Read More

Free Baseball Clinic for Kids Set for August 1 in Cary

CARY, NC — Young baseball fans are invited to join a free clinic as part of the All American Women’s Baseball Classic’s PLAY BALL event on Thursday, August 1.

Hosted at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, the event offers kids a chance to learn baseball fundamentals from top female athletes and coaches. The clinic is open to children of all skill levels and is part of a national initiative to grow youth participation in baseball and softball.

The PLAY BALL event is free, but registration is encouraged. It promises fun, fitness, and inspiration—right from the field where the pros play. Read More

Treetops Fest: Acoustic Music at Southern Village, Chapel Hill

Enjoy a relaxing evening of live acoustic music at Treetops Fest in Southern Village, Chapel Hill. This free event takes place on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM on the Village Green.

Bring your own chair and picnic to soak in the local sounds and community atmosphere. Admission is free, and while tips for the performers are welcome, they’re not required.

Treetops Fest is a great way to unwind and support local musicians in a beautiful outdoor setting. For updates and more events, visit the Southern Village events page. /

Hopscotch Music Festival Returns to Raleigh Sept. 4–6

The 15th annual Hopscotch Music Festival is back in downtown Raleigh from September 4–6, 2025, bringing over 100 artists to multiple venues including City Plaza and Moore Square.

Headliners include Earl Sweatshirt, My Morning Jacket, and Sparks, alongside acts like Built to Spill, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Crumb, and local favorites Superchunk and Blue Cactus. Read More

The Ripple Effect of Kindness Right Here in NC

I recently talked with Angela, founder of the Facebook group “Angela’s Fabulous Finds.” Angela shared a beautiful chain of kindness that recently touched her life. From grocery stores to Facebook Marketplace, Angela shared how small moments of generosity are creating a big impact.

Angela: It all started a few days ago at Sprouts. I was at the checkout when a young man named Ethan stepped up and paid for over $50 worth of my groceries. I was completely caught off guard. Later, I found out he had just gone through a house fire. Even in the midst of his own struggles, he chose to help someone else. That act of generosity really stayed with me.

The very next day, my friend Tami told me that a stranger had paid for her and her husband’s meal at a restaurant. Hearing her story made me feel even more inspired. It was like kindness was in the air. I felt moved to do something myself, so when I saw a Walmart worker who looked like she was having a tough day, I handed her five dollars. She gave me a hug and was so grateful. That small moment made both of our days better.

Kindness truly does spread.

Angela:  A woman named Reina, who I met on Facebook Marketplace, reached out after I bought something from her. She offered to donate items to my Facebook group, “Angela’s Fabulous Finds.” That meant so much to me. I started the group about five years ago when I was going through breast cancer. I’ve always loved thrifting, so I began reselling items online to raise money for charities that are close to my heart. The group has grown into a community I call my “Fabulous Friends,” and their support helps us keep giving back. Reina’s donation was just another reminder of how kindness finds its way to you when you least expect it.

How have these experiences changed the way you think about kindness?

Angela: They’ve reminded me that accepting kindness is just as important as giving it. Sometimes we hesitate to receive help, but when we do, we give others the joy of giving. These moments showed me how kindness can multiply—it creates a ripple effect. By sharing our stories, we can encourage others to open their hearts and either give or receive kindness in their way. It truly is a blessing, both ways.

Now the rest of the story. A couple of years ago, I was the recipient of Angela’s love and kindness. I met Angela through  Facebook. We became friends and found we have many similar interests.  We had just lost our youngest son to cancer. As you can imagine, it was a very low time for my husband and me.  Out of the blue, I received a gift in the mail with the most loving message.  Angela wanted my husband and me to go to dinner and have an evening of renewal. She bought us dinner.  At that time, I had not met Angela.  I only knew her through Facebook. 

"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

Traveling the World Without Leaving Your Living Room

Who says you need to pack a suitcase to explore the world? Thanks to virtual reality (VR) technology, seniors with mobility challenges can now embark on incredible adventures without ever leaving their living rooms. From strolling along the Great Wall of China to swimming with dolphins in the Caribbean, VR opens doors to places and experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.

VR headsets provide immersive 360-degree views and interactive tours, making travel feel real and exciting. Many senior centers and assisted living communities are embracing this tech, offering VR sessions that boost mental stimulation, reduce loneliness, and spark joy.

Whether it’s a virtual safari in Africa or a visit to a famous art museum, VR adventures help seniors stay curious, connected, and inspired — all from the comfort of home.

Ready to take a trip? Just put on a headset and let your next great adventure begin!

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

Fun things to do July 23rd

🎉 Festivals & Outdoor Fun

• Live After Five
  📍 City Plaza, Downtown Raleigh
  🕔 5:00–8:00 PM
  🎶 Free
  Enjoy a lively summer block party with live music from Kooley High and Charly Lowry, local food trucks, craft beer, and vintage vendors. Great for all ages!

• Trivia Night at Leesville Community Library
  📍 Leesville Community Library, 5105 Country Trail, Raleigh
  🕖 7:00–8:30 PM
  🧠 Free
  Test your knowledge in a fun, casual setting. Perfect for families and seniors looking for a relaxed evening activity.

🎭 Arts & Culture

• Family Storytime at Green Road Community Library
  📍 Green Road Community Library, 4101 Green Road, Raleigh
  🕙 10:30–11:00 AM
  📖 Free
  Enjoy a delightful storytime session with your little ones. Wake County Library Storytime and Programs
  📍 Various Locations
  🕘 9:15 AM–5:30 PM
  📚 Free
  Check out your local library for baby storytime, toddler storytime, family storytime, book clubs, and more.

🧘 Wellness & Learning

• Post Overdose Response Teams Training
  📍 Wake County Emergency Services Education Center, 221 South Rogers Lane, Raleigh
  🕘 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
  💡 Free
  A training session focused on opioid overdose response, offering valuable information for community members and professionals.

• Technology Training Workshop
  📍 Wake County Democratic Party Office
  🕡 6:30–7:30 PM
  💻 Free
  Enhance your digital skills with personalized assistance in Google Suite tools. Ideal for seniors and anyone looking to improve their tech proficiency.

🏛️ Community & Civic Engagement

• Introduction to the Greater Raleigh Chamber
  📍 Raleigh Chamber of Commerce
  🕛 12:00 PM
  💼 Free
  A prospective member event to learn about the Greater

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]