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Hello friends!
We hope your Fourth of July weekend was packed with fun, fireworks, and great memories! Now it's time to jump into a brand-new week—and we've got plenty of local events, entertainment, and community happenings to keep the celebration going.
Thanks for being part of the Wake News & Events family! If you love what you read, share us with a friend and help spread the fun.
Have an amazing week!
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.”
The Wild World of the Van Gogh Truthers
In 1990, after years of practicing medicine and reviewing Van Gogh’s case history via his hundreds of letters, Arenberg published a paper in JAMA diagnosing Van Gogh as suffering not from epilepsy, as the artist’s physician claimed a century earlier, but from Ménière’s disease, an inner-ear affliction that can cause vertigo, of which Van Gogh complained, and tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears. Ménière’s, to Arenberg, could better explain Van Gogh’s decision to slice off his ear. After retiring, in 2017, Arenberg recommitted himself to studying Van Gogh and became convinced that art historians had made an even more alarming mistake: Van Gogh had not committed suicide. He’d been murdered.
Read the article for free on Air Mail, a lively digital read for the world citizen, with stories both foreign and domestic that you won’t find anywhere else, written by some of the world’s finest journalists.
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North Carolina — where mountain mornings, coastal sunsets, and Southern charm make every day an adventure
Where Coastal Charm Meets Adventure
If you're looking for the perfect North Carolina getaway, it's hard to beat Beaufort (pronounced BOH-fert), one of the state's oldest and most charming waterfront towns. Nestled along the Crystal Coast, Beaufort blends rich maritime history, breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood, and laid-back coastal living into a destination you'll want to visit again and again.
From the moment you stroll along Front Street, you'll understand why Beaufort is consistently named one of America's favorite small towns. Historic homes shaded by towering live oaks, sailboats gliding across Taylor's Creek, and waterfront restaurants with spectacular views create a picture-perfect coastal escape.
One of Beaufort's biggest attractions is its connection to the legendary pirate Blackbeard, whose infamous flagship, the Queen Anne's Revenge, ran aground just offshore in 1718. History buffs can explore fascinating exhibits at the North Carolina Maritime Museum and learn about the ongoing recovery of artifacts from the famous shipwreck.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore. Take a boat tour to the Rachel Carson Reserve, where wild horses roam freely along the protected islands. Keep your camera ready—you may also spot playful dolphins, pelicans, osprey, and other coastal wildlife along the way.
Outdoor adventures are everywhere. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Taylor's Creek, hop aboard a sunset cruise, enjoy world-class fishing, or simply relax on nearby Atlantic Beach, just a short drive away.
Food is another reason visitors fall in love with Beaufort. Waterfront restaurants serve freshly caught shrimp, oysters, crab cakes, and local fish while offering unforgettable views of the harbor. After dinner, browse the unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops that line the historic downtown streets.
Beaufort is also home to festivals throughout the year, including the famous Wooden Boat Show and lively waterfront celebrations that showcase the town's maritime heritage and welcoming community spirit.
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a peaceful day trip, Beaufort offers the perfect combination of history, nature, relaxation, and coastal beauty. It's the kind of place where sunsets paint the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink, boats gently sway in the harbor, and time seems to slow down just enough for you to truly enjoy the moment.
Why Visit Beaufort?
Beautiful historic waterfront and walkable downtown
Wild horses at the Rachel Carson Reserve
Blackbeard history and maritime museums
Dolphin cruises, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing
Fresh local seafood and waterfront dining
Boutique shopping, art galleries, and charming inns
Easy access to nearby beaches on the Crystal Coast
Whether you're staying for a weekend or just passing through, Beaufort captures the very best of North Carolina's coast—historic, scenic, relaxing, and unforgettable. Pack your camera, bring your appetite, and discover why this hidden gem continues to steal visitors' hearts year after year.
What’s Happening in Wake County?
Private Donors Step Up for North Carolina at America's 250th Celebration
While North Carolina's Governor's Office chose not to participate in the America's 250 celebration in Washington, D.C., private sponsors made sure the Tar Heel State was represented.
Thank you to SPEVCO, Richard Childress Racing, and Operation Helo for stepping up to support North Carolina's exhibit at this historic event.
Their generosity ensured North Carolina had a place at this once-in-a-generation celebration of America's 250th birthday.
School Safety & Cellphone Rules Under Review
Changes could be coming to local schools this fall. District leaders are evaluating new weapons detection systems for large school events while also finalizing updated classroom cellphone guidelines designed to improve safety and reduce distractions.
The proposed changes are part of an ongoing effort to create a safer learning environment and provide schools with clearer expectations for students, staff, and families before the new school year begins. Additional details are expected as the policies move forward. Read more here: Read More
Drought Creates New Hazards at Falls Lake
Wake County's exceptional drought is making a day on the water riskier than usual. Falls Lake is now more than 5½ feet below its normal level, exposing rocks, tree stumps, and other underwater hazards that can be dangerous for boaters, paddlers, and swimmers. Officials urge visitors to slow down, stay alert, and use extra caution while enjoying the lake this summer. Read More
Bands, Bites & Boats Returns to Bond Park
Spend a relaxing summer evening by the lake at Bands, Bites & Boats on Friday, July 10, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Fred G. Bond Metro Park, 801 High House Road, Cary.
Enjoy live acoustic music by Garland Mason, grab dinner from local food trucks, and take advantage of discounted after-hours boat rentals for a peaceful paddle on Bond Lake.
Admission is free. Food truck purchases and boat rentals are available for an additional cost.
All American City
Morrisville has once again earned national recognition as an All-America City—marking the second time it has received this prestigious honor from the National Civic League.
The award highlights Morrisville’s strong community spirit, civic engagement, and commitment to smart, inclusive growth. From local partnerships to investments in quality of life, the town continues to stand out as a model of collaboration and progress.
Congratulations to Morrisville on this well-deserved achievement and continued excellence.
Raleigh's All-American Summer Festival
Celebrate summer at Raleigh's All-American Summer Festival on Saturday, July 11, from 11:00 AM–7:00 PM along Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh. Enjoy live music by the Adam Lee Decker Band, delicious food, unique vendors, and a fun-filled carnival atmosphere.
Admission is free!
Summer Concert in the Park
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a relaxing evening of live music with Invitation on Sunday, July 12, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh.
Admission is free!
"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)
🎉 FUN THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK & Weekend!
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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
