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Hello friends!

It’s not just another Friday! It's the perfect storm of awesome today: National Croissant Day and National Fun at Work Day (yep, they landed on the same Friday—thank you, calendar gods!).

So grab that buttery, flaky croissant (or three... no judgment here), and let's make work feel a little less like work and a lot more like play.

Picture this: you're powering through emails with croissant crumbs on your keyboard, or maybe you're rocking an impromptu "big wig" moment just to crack up your team. Either way, today’s vibe is all about savoring the good stuff and sprinkling some extra fun into the day.

Here’s to flaky layers, big laughs, and making Friday feel legendary. You've got this!

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.”

National Croissant Day Deals

• Lidl Locations: Multiple in Wake County/Raleigh area (e.g., stores in Raleigh, Cary, and surrounding spots—check lidl.com for the closest to Rolesville). Deal: Free butter croissant (no purchase required). Use the MyLidl app and enter code FREECROISSANT on January 30. Fresh-baked European-style with real butter—great grab-and-go option!

• Burney's Sweets & More Location: 4500 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh, NC (convenient drive from Rolesville). Deal: Free plain glazed croissant (one per customer) or a dozen glazed croissants for $9.99. Open 7 AM–6 PM—sweet, glazed twist on the classic!

• Emma's Patisserie Note: Primary location is at World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL (not in Wake County/Triangle area—some social mentions reference it for the holiday, but it's not local). No confirmed Wake County spot with specials. If there's a Triangle outpost or pop-up, check their Instagram for updates, but currently no active deal here for NC.

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why can you never trust a croissant to get anything done?

Because they're super flaky! 🥐😏

📍 Trivia 📍

• 1871: On January 30, Governor William Woods Holden’s impeachment trial began in North Carolina. He became the state’s only governor ever impeached and removed from office—a wild chapter in Reconstruction-era politics involving accusations of overreach during turbulent times. (Talk about a dramatic start to a Friday in history!)

•  Wildlife fun fact: In North Carolina’s natural calendar, January 30 often marks when wood frogs start breeding during winter rain events. These quirky frogs can freeze solid in winter and thaw out to croak (literally) in early spring—talk about resilient NC wildlife!

• Modern celebrations: The 25th Annual African American Cultural Celebration at the North Carolina Museum of Art (and Museum of History) features a virtual education day on January 30 (with in-person festivities the next day)—full of demos, talks, and cultural spotlights. Great local event if you're near Raleigh!

With the snowy, cold weekend ahead in Wake County (looks like January 31–February 1, 2026, could bring flurries, accumulation, and chilly temps in the 20s–30s°F with wind chills making it feel even colder), staying cozy indoors is the smart move for family fun—especially with kids. Raleigh and the Triangle area have tons of great options that are perfect for beating cabin fever without braving the roads too much if conditions get icy.

Here are some top family-friendly ideas tailored for a snowy weekend in/near Rolesville and Wake County:

• Museums and interactive spots (all indoors and heated!):

  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (downtown Raleigh, about 20–30 min drive): Free admission, massive exhibits with live animals, dinosaur skeletons, a massive whale skeleton, and hands-on science zones. They often have special programs or events around this time (like Astronomy Days if it aligns, or ongoing nature exhibits). Great for all ages—spend hours exploring without noticing the cold outside.

  • Marbles Kids Museum (downtown Raleigh): Super hands-on play for younger kids—think water tables, pretend play areas, climbing structures, and creative zones. Note: Check their site or socials for any weather-related closures or rescheduled events (they've shifted things like "Winter Inning" family nights in the past due to storms), but it's usually a go-to for snowy days.

  • North Carolina Museum of Art (west Raleigh): Free entry to indoor galleries with world-class art, plus a cozy café. The kids can enjoy interactive art activities or just wander the colorful exhibits.

• Indoor play and adventure centers:

  • Urban Air Adventure Park (locations in Raleigh or nearby): Trampolines, ninja courses, climbing walls, ziplines, and arcade games—high-energy fun to burn off that cabin-fever energy.

  • Local indoor playgrounds: Check spots like Greystone Recreation Center (Raleigh) for free or low-cost play areas, or other rec centers in Wake County that often have open gym times or family play sessions.

• Cozy at-home or low-key outings:

  • Bundle up for a quick backyard snow adventure if there's enough accumulation: Build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or make snow angels (then rush back inside for hot cocoa!).

  • Movie marathon or game night: Stock up on snacks, blankets, and board games/Popcorn + family favorites like Frozen (for the snowy theme) or classics.

  • Baking or crafts: Whip up cookies, hot chocolate with marshmallows, or do simple snow-themed crafts (paper snowflakes, DIY snow globes).

  • Mall hopping: Triangle Town Center or Crabtree Valley Mall for window shopping, indoor walking, rides on any carousel/train if available, and food court treats.

• If roads are clear enough for a short drive:

  • Ice skating rinks (if still open post-holidays): Check places like THE RINK at Red Hat Amphitheater (downtown) or The Square at Fenton—indoor/outdoor options with rentals, but confirm hours as some wrap up in late January.

  • Libraries: Wake County Public Libraries often have free storytimes, craft sessions, or family programs—perfect low-key spot with books and warmth.

Pro tips for the weekend:

• Check road conditions via NCDOT or apps before heading out—snow/ice can make even short drives tricky in the Triangle.

• Many places offer online tickets or timed entry, so reserve ahead if possible.

• Pack layers, snacks, and chargers—indoor spots can get busy on stormy weekends!

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Embracing AI in Wake County Schools: Innovations, Initiatives, and Benefits for Students

In an era where technology evolves faster than a student's backpack fills with homework, artificial intelligence (AI) is stepping into classrooms as a transformative tool. Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), serving over 160,000 students across North Carolina's bustling Triangle region—including communities like Rolesville—is at the forefront of this shift. As of early 2026, WCPSS is actively exploring AI integration, balancing excitement with caution to prepare kids for a tech-driven future. This article dives into what Wake County schools are doing with AI and how these efforts are empowering students to learn smarter, not harder.

Wake County's Approach to AI in Education

Wake County isn't diving headfirst into AI without a plan; instead, the district is building on statewide guidance while fostering local innovations. In September 2025, the Wake County Board of Education held a pivotal work session to discuss AI's role in schools, emphasizing its potential for creating personalized learning plans. Board members received a "crash course" from experts at Amazon Web Services, covering generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, which process vast data to respond to prompts. While no comprehensive district-wide AI policy exists yet, schools adhere to a key rule: protecting student data by avoiding tools that could compromise privacy.

Drawing from North Carolina's AI guidebook—released to ensure "age-appropriate, safe, and meaningful integration" in K-12 classrooms—WCPSS is rolling out practical steps. High school students, for instance, access AI learning modules through district-issued devices, in collaboration with state education leaders. Teachers are implementing AI as an aid, not a replacement, for learning—think using it to generate ideas or analyze data in subjects like science and math.

Hands-on education is key. In December 2025, state leaders visited Wake County middle schools to teach AI basics, including safe tool usage and even fun applications like AI-generated music. Partnerships with institutions like North Carolina State University's Friday Institute are amplifying this: They're developing AI resources to support deeper learning, teacher training, and student engagement. Even in schools where AI is restricted (like some art classes), creative workarounds emerge—students might use AI for reference images while learning critical thinking about its outputs.

The district's broader technology responsible use policy underscores this commitment, providing resources that enhance learning while promoting ethical tech habits. As WCPSS collaborates with groups like Education Elements for tailored school strategies, AI is woven into coding classes, interactive tools, and even administrative efficiencies to free up time for teaching.

How AI Tools Are Helping Wake County Kids

The real magic of AI in Wake County classrooms lies in its student-centered benefits. By personalizing education and bridging gaps, AI isn't just a gadget—it's a game-changer for how kids learn and grow.

1. Personalized Learning Paths: AI adapts to each student's pace and style. In WCPSS high schools, tools create customized plans, helping struggling learners catch up or challenging advanced students with deeper dives. This boosts engagement and retention, as kids feel seen and supported.

2. Instant Feedback and Support: Gone are the days of waiting for graded papers. AI provides real-time insights on assignments, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. For Wake County students, this means quicker mastery of concepts, reducing frustration and building confidence—especially in subjects like math or writing.

3. Accessibility and Inclusivity: AI breaks barriers for diverse learners. Tools offer real-time translation for English language learners, voice-to-text for those with writing challenges, or adaptive interfaces for students with disabilities. In Wake County's inclusive classrooms, this fosters participation and equity, ensuring no child is left behind.

4. Scalable Tutoring and Resources: With AI modules on devices, students get 24/7 help—like virtual tutors for homework or data analysis tools for projects. This extends learning beyond school hours, helping busy families in places like Rolesville support their kids without extra costs.

5. Fostering Critical Thinking and Creativity: Far from replacing effort, AI encourages kids to question outputs, spot biases, and innovate. Wake middle school sessions on AI safety teach ethical use, preparing students for real-world tech challenges. This builds emotional regulation and imaginative skills, turning potential pitfalls into growth opportunities.

6. Efficiency for All: By automating routine tasks (like grading or data tracking), AI frees teachers to focus on mentoring, leading to richer classroom experiences. Students benefit from unified data stories that track progress holistically.

Looking Ahead: AI's Promise in Wake County

As WCPSS continues policy discussions and partnerships, AI's role will likely expand—perhaps with full curricula or teacher training programs. Challenges like misinformation risks or equity gaps remain, but with thoughtful integration, AI can level the playing field. For Wake County kids, this means graduating not just with knowledge, but with skills to thrive in an AI-powered world. As one educator put it, AI isn't just a tool—it's a turning point for education.

In Rolesville and beyond, families can get involved by attending board meetings or exploring free AI resources from the Friday Institute. The future is bright—and intelligently assisted. Read More

North Carolina Kindness

In early December 2025, as winter's chill set in across North Carolina, an 85-year-old widow named Nana Abernathy found herself in a difficult situation. Living alone and on a fixed income after losing her husband, she needed firewood to keep her home warm but couldn't afford to pay much. She called a local tree removal company, explaining her hardship and asking if she could pay later or get a small amount.

The owner, Paul Brittain of Brittain's Tree and Crane Services, didn't hesitate. On or around December 6, 2025 (when he launched related efforts), Paul personally delivered a generous load of firewood for free. While at her home, he saw she was struggling with more than just heat—her car needed repairs, the roof had leaks, and her heating/AC unit wasn't working properly. Without fanfare, Paul fixed her car's issues, patched the roof, and got the heating system running again—all at no cost.

Moved by her gratitude (she hugged him tightly in tears, captured in a heartfelt video he shared), Paul posted about the encounter on social media with the caption: "Helping a widow woman today! She was so happy to receive this gift." The post went viral, touching thousands online.

The community responded in a beautiful wave: Paul organized additional help like yard cleanup and gutter clearing, and he set up a GoFundMe to support Nana's ongoing needs and make her Christmas brighter. By late December (around December 22–23, 2025), the fundraiser had raised over $20,000 from hundreds of donors. When Paul returned to share the news, Nana broke down in joyful tears again, overwhelmed by the outpouring.

Nana later expressed how the kindness restored her hope during a lonely time: "This is great!" she said, beaming in updates. Paul, a community pillar guided by faith and compassion, simply said it was the right thing to do.

"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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• Senior Deal of the Day: Briggs Restaurants. Guests 65+ get 7% off adult entrée all day, every day.👈

• Forks Cafeteria & Catering 339 Brooks St, Wake Forest, NC A long-time local favorite for Southern cooking, they offer a senior citizen price.

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• 25th Annual African American Cultural CelebrationDate: January 30–31, 2026 Time: Virtual Education Day (Jan 30): 9 a.m.–2 p.m.; In-person Festival (Jan 31): 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Cost: Free Description: This milestone event at the North Carolina Museum of Art features live performances, artisan demonstrations, hands-on activities, and educational programs to celebrate African American culture and kick off Black History Month. Link😀 

• Appalachian Road Show (PineCone's Down Home Concert Series)Date: January 30, 2026 Time: 7:30 p.m. (lobby doors 6:30 p.m., theater doors 7 p.m.) Cost: Ticket prices vary (available via Ticketmaster or venue; typically $30–$60+ depending on seats) Description: Enjoy an evening of authentic roots and bluegrass music from the acclaimed Appalachian Road Show in the intimate A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater. Link: 

• Triangle Restaurant WeekDate: January 26–February 1, 2026 Time: Varies by restaurant (dinner/lunch specials throughout the week) Cost: Fixed-price menus (typically $20–$60 per person depending on venue and meal) Description: A week-long culinary highlight across the Triangle with special prix-fixe menus at dozens of participating restaurants in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill to showcase local flavors. Link: official site with full restaurant list and menus)

• North Carolina Opera: Madama ButterflyDate: January 30–February 1, 2026 Time: Friday, Jan 30: 7:30 p.m.; additional performance(s) likely Saturday/Sunday (check site for exact) Cost: Tickets vary ($30–$150+ depending on seats; on sale now) Description: Experience Puccini's timeless opera of love, sacrifice, and heartbreak in a stunning production at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Link: (NC Opera official page with schedule and tickets) or venue:

• 6 Year Anniversary Party at The Longleaf LoungeDate: January 31, 2026 Time: 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Cost: Free (no cover; drinks and snacks available for purchase) Description: Join the celebration at this downtown Raleigh hotel lounge for a 1960s-themed party with martinis, classic snacks from Diamond Dogs, and swinging tunes by DJ Alski. Link: (official event page at The Longleaf Hotel)

• Kay Yow Cancer Fund's Run/Walk for Women's Cancer AwarenessDate: January 31, 2026 Time: 9:30 a.m. start Cost: $25–$40 (registration fees; team/individual options) Description: A celebratory run/walk at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary to raise awareness and funds for women's cancer research, open to all paces and abilities. Link: (Kay Yow Cancer Fund official registration page) or more details:

  These events offer a great mix of culture, music, food, opera, and community spirit—ideal for beating the winter blues (even if roads are snowy—check conditions first!).

We strive to make sure that all information is accurate. However, we always recommend check all details with the event organizer.

There are so many events happening in and around Wake County, NC that we have gone to a seperate page to list events. Please click this button to view all of the area’s great events!👇

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]