📫Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival | Major Economic Surge For Wake County | Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival | Foster Shortage📍

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Hello friends!

Did you know that August 7 is National Lighthouse Day? It’s a special day to celebrate those iconic beacons that have guided sailors safely through the night for centuries. There’s something comforting about a lighthouse — a symbol of hope, guidance, and safety.

As we navigate through our own journeys, I hope you find your own light to guide you through whatever comes your way this week.

Stay bright and keep shining!

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.”

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the lighthouse break up with the boat?
Because it felt the relationship was just too one-sided—it was always shining, but the boat just drifted away!

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

🥛 Did you know?
The North Carolina coastline has more lighthouses than any other Atlantic state, with seven major ones still standing and active.

Whispering Falls, North Carolina’s Newest Waterfall Wonder

North Carolina has long been celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, and now nature lovers have a fresh reason to explore the Tar Heel State—Whispering Falls, a newly discovered waterfall nestled in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest.

Whispering Falls cascades gently over a series of smooth granite ledges, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water that glistens in the sunlight. Surrounded by lush ferns and towering hardwood trees, the waterfall’s crystal-clear pool at the base invites visitors to pause and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The sound of water whispering over the rocks lives up to its name, offering a tranquil retreat from everyday life.

Why Visit Whispering Falls?

• Accessible Hiking: The falls are reachable via a moderate 2.5-mile roundtrip hike, perfect for families and casual hikers. The trail winds through fragrant pine groves and vibrant wildflower patches, providing plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

• Picnic and Relaxation: A small clearing near the pool offers picnic tables and natural seating areas where visitors can enjoy a meal or simply meditate to the soothing soundscape.

• Wildlife Spotting: The area is home to diverse wildlife, including songbirds, salamanders, and occasionally deer, making it a favorite for birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Interesting Facts

• Whispering Falls was only documented by local hikers in early 2025, making it one of the newest natural attractions in the region.

• The falls’ unique granite formations are part of an ancient geological structure dating back over 300 million years.

• Conservation efforts are already underway to preserve the pristine environment around Whispering Falls, encouraging sustainable tourism and education.

Located near Brevard, NC, Whispering Falls is open year-round, though spring and early summer are ideal for witnessing the fullest flow after seasonal rains. Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and respect the natural habitat.

For those looking to experience a fresh slice of North Carolina’s wilderness, Whispering Falls promises serenity, beauty, and a new adventure just waiting to be explored.

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Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival

Get ready for a fun weekend in Downtown Cary! The Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival returns August 23–24, 2025, from 9 AM to 5 PM, with free admission and something for everyone.

Now in its 49th year, this popular event brings together over 300 artists from across the region, offering handmade crafts, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. Enjoy live music, dance performances, delicious local food, and a special Kids’ World with games and crafts for the little ones.

Set under the trees in charming Downtown Cary, Lazy Daze is a celebration of art, community, and creativity. Proceeds support local arts programs, so every purchase gives back. Parking is free, shuttles are available, and the fun is guaranteed.

Don’t miss this Cary tradition—see you at Lazy Daze!

Wake Forest Exchange

A large-scale 30+ acre development on Star Road by St. John Properties. The project includes 166,729 sq ft of Class A office, R&D, and retail space, with the first speculative building scheduled for delivery by late 2025. Read More

Major Economic Surge for Wake County

Wake County is experiencing a major economic surge, with more than $5.9 billion in planned investment and over 7,800 potential new jobs on the way. This growth is centered in sectors like life sciences, advanced manufacturing, cleantech, IT, and smart-grid technology, with projects already underway or planned through 2025 to 2027. Areas seeing the most development include Holly Springs, Apex, Morrisville, Wake Forest, and Knightdale, where large-scale campuses and industrial parks are transforming the landscape. Major players like Amgen, FUJIFILM Diosynth, and local biotech startups are fueling the life sciences boom, while new facilities focused on renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital innovation are also rising. These projects promise not only high-paying jobs but a future-ready economy, positioning Wake County as a rising national hub for advanced industry and innovation.

Teens Killed by Father Before Garner House Fire, Autopsy Confirms

Two teenagers found dead in a burning home on Heather Spring Drive last month were killed by their father before the fire, according to newly released autopsy reports.

The victims, 16-year-old Elijah and 13-year-old Isabel Jensen, died from sharp-force injuries. Their father, 44-year-old Matthew Jensen, later set the house on fire and died by suicide, police said.

Fire crews responded to the blaze on July 15 and discovered all three bodies. Investigators now confirm the deaths were a murder-suicide. Read More

Children Sleeping in Wake County Offices Due to Foster Shortage

Wake County, NC — A shortage of foster homes has led to some children in protective custody sleeping in government office buildings, officials confirmed.

With emergency placements unavailable, social workers have been using offices as temporary shelters. The county is urgently working to recruit more foster families and expand housing options. Read More

Hero the Dog Leads Rescuers to Save Dozens of Animals in Concord, NC

In June 2025, a remarkable rescue unfolded in Concord, North Carolina, when a senior basset hound—later named Hero Salvare—escaped from appalling conditions and led animal welfare teams to a heartbreaking discovery: nearly 40 neglected animals suffering in silence.

Hero, an older female basset hound, was found wandering alone in poor health. She was severely malnourished, battling a bladder infection, heartworms, and other untreated medical issues. Despite her frail state, Hero displayed an extraordinary sense of purpose. When rescuers from the Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County began investigating the situation, Hero guided them directly to the property she had fled—where they discovered dozens of other animals in equally dire conditions.

Many of the animals were found without clean water or adequate food, living among filth and neglect. The scene was described as one of the worst local animal cruelty cases in recent years.

Thanks to Hero’s instincts and resilience, these animals are now receiving the care they desperately needed. The Humane Society honored her with the name Hero Salvare, Latin for “to save and protect,” recognizing her extraordinary bravery.

After receiving veterinary care, rehabilitation, and lots of love, Hero has since been adopted into a permanent, loving home where she is safe, comfortable, and thriving. She now enjoys her golden years surrounded by people who truly care.

Hero’s actions weren’t just brave—they were lifesaving. Her story reminds us of the profound bond animals share with one another, and the incredible good that can happen when people (and pets!) step up in the face of suffering.

"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

🧀 Have you heard the saying that eating cheese before bed causes vivid dreams—or even nightmares?

It’s a popular belief that’s been passed around for generations, and while it might sound like an old wives' tale, there's actually some curiosity behind it! 

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

What’s Happening on Thursday, August 7th?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Kids

• Outdoor Movie Night: Wicked at Moore Square (Raleigh, 6:00 PM)
  Bring a blanket and the whole family for a magical evening under the stars. Enjoy crafts and games before the movie begins.

• Visit Bond Park in Cary
  Families can rent pedal boats, explore nature trails, or enjoy a shaded picnic by the lake. It's an affordable and relaxing outdoor adventure.

• Wake County Public Libraries
  Several branches host weekly storytimes, STEAM activities, and crafts for children. Check your local branch's event calendar for August 7 programming.

💑 For Couples

• “Waitress” Musical (7:30 PM, Raleigh)
  A perfect date night! See this Broadway favorite featuring great music, heartfelt performances, and a sweet storyline.

• Bowstring Pizza & Brewyard – Live Music & Pizza (Raleigh)
  Enjoy a casual night with gourmet pizza, signature brews, and a live acoustic performance in an open-air setting.

• Sunset Stroll on the American Tobacco Trail
  Take a romantic walk or bike ride along this scenic greenway with quiet wooded views perfect for golden hour.

👵👴 For Seniors

• North Carolina Museum of Art & Sculpture Park (Free Admission)
  Take a peaceful walk through the museum’s galleries or enjoy the wide-open outdoor sculpture park. It’s quiet, shaded, and a beautiful cultural outing.

• Senior Wellness Classes at Local YMCAs
  Many YMCAs across Wake County offer senior yoga, water aerobics, and line dancing. Rolesville, Cary, and Knightdale branches often have midweek sessions.

• Coffee & Coloring at Your Local Library
  Some libraries host relaxing adult activities like coloring clubs, memoir-writing groups, and puzzle socials—great for staying active and social.

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]