📫Missing Juvenile | Raleigh City Council Approves Toll Plan for Capitol Boulevard | Rolesville Spring Festival | A Happy Ever After Story📍

Good morning, friends!

Did you know that today is National Decency Day? Now, I don’t know about you, but I think every day should be a celebration of kindness, respect, and good ol’ neighborly decency. Still, it’s nice to have a little reminder to be our best selves—especially as we go about our day bumping into friends, family, and friendly strangers.

So let’s do it: let’s smile more, wave often, and sprinkle a little extra kindness wherever we go. After all, it costs nothing—but it can mean everything.

And speaking of spreading good things... we’d love your help in sharing the Wake News & Events Newsletter with more of our amazing community. Our goal? To double our readership—and with your help, we can do it!

Think of 2 or 3 folks who’d enjoy staying in the loop with local news, happenings, and feel-good stories. Sharing is easy—just click the button below and invite them to join our growing circle.

Here’s to a day filled with kindness, connection, and maybe even a few surprise smiles.

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

Here is the referral button so you can refer all your friends!

📧 [email protected] 

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." – Winston Churchill

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🤣-Chuckle & Trivia - Laughter & Knowledge - good for the soul.

☁️-Weather - Whether we like it or not!

🥾-Getting to know beautiful North Carolina

🏠 - Current real estate Listings

📰-News - Stay in the know with local news.

🏃 - Healthy Home - Healthy Family

📃 - Listings

…..🍹Local Happy Hour Listings

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  …..🌃Events/Live Music/Comedy/Festivals/Family Activities/ & More

🤹 - Local Business & Restaurant Spotlight

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Special Update Editions!

♦️Wednesday - Events Calendar Update♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Garage & Estate Sales♦️

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why do Hell’s Angels wear leather? Because chiffon wrinkles to easy!😎📚

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Banking Powerhouse 💰
Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the United States—right behind New York City. It’s home to Bank of America’s headquarters and a major hub for Wells Fargo.

📍On This Day in History📍

📜 1607 – Jamestown Founded
Jamestown, Virginia, became the first permanent English settlement in North America. It was established by the Virginia Company of London and marked the beginning of what would become the United States.

🌿 North Carolina Hidden Gem

McGalliard Falls Park – Valdese, NC

Step back in time and discover a tranquil treasure nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Just a short drive from Morganton lies the charming town of Valdese, home to one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets—McGalliard Falls Park. This peaceful retreat offers natural beauty, local history, and a sense of calm that’s hard to come by in today’s busy world.

McGalliard Falls isn’t just a pretty view—it’s steeped in history. In the late 1800s, the falls powered the Minges Grist Mill, a water-driven mill that served the early settlers of the area. Though the mill no longer operates, its remains still stand as a picturesque monument to the past. And speaking of the past—Valdese itself was founded by Waldensian immigrants from northern Italy in the 1890s. Their rich cultural heritage still influences the area today.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone in need of a scenic picnic spot, McGalliard Falls Park delivers.

• See the Falls: The 40-foot waterfall is the centerpiece—breathtaking, peaceful, and perfect for photos.

• Explore the Old Mill: Walk around the restored remnants of the Minges Mill and imagine life over 100 years ago.

• Relax and Recharge: Enjoy a quiet picnic under the trees or take a short, easy trail along the creek.

• Bring the Family: The park has plenty of space for kids to play, plus it’s pet-friendly and stroller-accessible.

• Snap the Bridge: Don’t miss the rustic covered bridge—it’s a favorite photo op for visitors.

🧭 Plan Your Trip

📍 Address: 1400 Falls Rd NW, Valdese, NC 28690
🕒 Open daily from sunrise to sunset
💵 Admission: Free!
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic basket, camera, walking shoes, and a sense of adventure.

✨ Tip: While you're in Valdese, visit the nearby Waldensian Heritage Museum or grab a bite at a local Italian café for an authentic taste of the town’s roots.

Looking for more hidden gems across North Carolina? Stay tuned—there’s always more to discover just down the road!

➡️ For more travel inspiration in NC, follow our spotlight on another hidden gem in North Carolina!

Biotech Boost Genentech Picks Holly Springs for Major Expansion

Holly Springs is making headlines again—this time as the future home of a cutting-edge biotechnology facility. Genentech, a pioneering biotech firm headquartered in California, has announced plans to build a new plant right here in Wake County.

The project, expected to be completed by 2030, will bring new jobs, investment, and innovation to the area. Genentech’s expansion highlights North Carolina’s growing reputation as a national leader in life sciences and biotech manufacturing.

Governor Josh Stein welcomed the news, noting the state’s strong workforce and commitment to science and technology. “We’re ready to support companies delivering life-saving treatments to the world,” he shared in a statement.

This is a big win for Holly Springs and Wake County—and a sign of even more progress to come.

Raleigh City Council Approves Toll Plan for Capitol Boulevard

A major step toward addressing traffic congestion and improving infrastructure

In a move that could reshape one of Raleigh’s busiest corridors, the Raleigh City Council has officially endorsed a proposal to charge tolls on a 10-mile stretch of Capital Boulevard (U.S. 1), running from Interstate 540 to Purnell Road near Wake Forest. The council’s vote passed with a 7-1 decision, signaling a significant shift toward addressing traffic congestion in the area.

The project, which has been in the works for over a decade, will transform Capital Boulevard into a six-lane expressway with interchanges, replacing traffic lights to improve traffic flow and reduce delays. The plan is designed to make daily commutes faster and more predictable, especially as the region continues to grow.

What’s Next?

• Tolling System: The plan integrates Capital Boulevard into the North Carolina Turnpike system, allowing the state to borrow additional funds for the project. The estimated cost of construction is around $1.34 billion, with work scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2033.

• Traffic Impact: The new toll system is expected to help alleviate the growing traffic problems in Raleigh and surrounding areas, benefiting commuters from Wake Forest and beyond.

Despite the overwhelming support for the toll plan, Council Member Megan Patton, who represents the district north of I-540, voiced concerns about the financial impact on residents. She emphasized the need for off-peak toll discounts and future plans for bus rapid transit to ensure the system is accessible to all commuters.

Public Feedback
Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts on the tolling proposal by May 14. The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) will make a final decision on the project by May 21.

For more details and to voice your opinion, visit the public feedback page at publicinput.com/US_1_TollingOptions.

Stay tuned as this project moves forward, promising to improve traffic flow and infrastructure across the region.

Want to stay updated on local transportation projects and more? Make sure you’re subscribed to Wake News & Events for the latest updates in the community!

Hurrican Season Approaches

Hurricane Season in Wake County typically runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the peak of activity usually occurring between August and October. While Wake County is inland and not directly on the coast, hurricanes can still bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and power outages.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season in Wake County:

Stay Informed

• Monitor Weather Reports: Stay updated on forecasts through local news, weather apps, and the National Hurricane Center.

• Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities like Wake County Emergency Management.

Create an Emergency Kit

• Non-perishable food for at least 3 days

• Bottled water (one gallon per person per day)

• Battery-powered flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit with essential medications

• Portable phone charger and a battery-operated radio

Secure Your Home

• Trim Trees and Shrubs around your property to prevent branches from falling during high winds.

• Check Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows if needed.

• Clear Gutters and Drains to prevent flooding.

Know Your Evacuation Routes

• Identify Safe Areas: Know where local shelters are and the best routes out of town in case evacuation becomes necessary.

• Flood Zones: Even if you're not in a flood zone, stay aware of areas prone to flooding in Wake County.

Make a Family Plan

• Discuss emergency procedures with family members.

• Identify a meeting spot in case you’re separated during the storm.

• Designate an out-of-town contact to help coordinate with family members.

Prepare for Power Outages

• Have a backup power source (such as a generator) and learn how to use it safely.

• Charge electronic devices in advance and have extra batteries on hand.

Review Your Insurance

• Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to ensure you're covered for hurricane-related damages like flooding or wind damage.

• Consider purchasing flood insurance if you're in a flood-prone area.

By taking these steps ahead of time, you'll be better prepared for any storm that comes your way, ensuring safety for your family and home during hurricane season in Wake County.

Rolesville Spring Festival

Get ready for a day full of fun and community spirit at the Rolesville Spring Festival on May 24! The event will be held at Main Street Park and promises something for everyone.

From delicious food trucks serving up tasty treats to live entertainment that will keep you grooving all day long, the festival is the perfect way to kick off the summer. There will also be plenty of activities for all ages, making it an ideal outing for families, friends, and neighbors.

Mark your calendars for this exciting event, and don’t miss out on a day of good food, great music, and even better company!

Kidnapping Case Update

Two men, Miguel Angel Duran Duran and Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, faced federal charges in court on Monday related to the kidnapping of a woman and her 13-month-old daughter from their Garner home on April 28. Fortunately, the victims were located the following day in Wake Forest, safe and unharmed. The case has garnered significant attention as the investigation continues.

Missing Juvenile

Wyatt Johnson, 13, was last seen on May 9 leaving Apex Friendship Middle School. The AWARE Foundation is asking for the public's help in locating him. Anyone with information on Wyatt’s whereabouts is encouraged to come forward.

Deutsche Bank Expands Cary Tech Hub, Adding 100 Jobs

Deutsche Bank is growing its presence in Cary with an expansion of its technology hub. The company is adding 100 new jobs and renovating its offices, further cementing the site as a key player in the region’s tech industry. With this expansion, the Cary location now employs 1,100 people, marking its largest workforce in 15 years. This move highlights the area's ongoing growth as a hub for tech talent and innovation.

Statewide “Move Over” Law Enforcement Campaign

North Carolina has kicked off a statewide enforcement campaign to raise awareness about the Move Over Law. The law requires drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles on the side of the road. Running from May 12–18, this campaign aims to boost compliance and keep first responders safe. Drivers are urged to follow these simple steps to protect emergency personnel and avoid fines. Let’s all do our part to ensure safety on the road!

Fire at Morrisville Apartment Complex Displaces 15 Residents

A fire broke out overnight at the Huntington Apartments in Morrisville, displacing 15 residents. The blaze caused extensive damage, including a large hole in the building’s roof. Emergency responders acted swiftly to contain the fire, and the displaced residents are receiving assistance from local services. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Best Friends Forever

In a story that touched hearts near and far, an unlikely pair—a dog named Felix and a goat named Cinnamon—found their forever home together after being surrendered to the Wake County Animal Center.

The two arrived at the shelter after their owner could no longer care for them. Staff initially housed them separately, but it didn’t take long to realize that the pair were more than just roommates—they were best friends. Both animals became noticeably anxious when apart, prompting the shelter team to reunite them and keep them side by side.

Their story quickly spread across social media, gaining national attention and a flood of support from animal lovers. That’s when Chris and Mariesa Hughes of the Mr. Mo Project, a nonprofit that helps senior dogs, stepped in to help. The duo arranged for Felix and Cinnamon to live together on a peaceful farm in Johnston County, where they are now surrounded by new friends—both canine and caprine—and are receiving lifelong veterinary care.

This sweet tale is a reminder of the special connections animals can form and the caring community in Wake County that goes the extra mile to protect and preserve them.

📅 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

🎻 The Really Terrible Orchestra of the Triangle (RTOOT)

• Time: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Cary Arts Center, Cary

• Details: Enjoy a fun evening of quirky music and humor with RTOOT. This performance is a great way to unwind and enjoy some light-hearted entertainment. Details here.

🎨 Downtown Cary Girls' Night Out

• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Location: Cary Gallery of Artists, Cary

• Details: Stroll through the galleries, enjoy shopping, and take part in this fun social event celebrating women. More info here.

🎤 Open Mic Night at Compass Rose Brewery

• Time: 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM

• Location: Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

• Details: Showcase your talents or enjoy the performances of local artists at this casual and creative evening event. Learn more.

🎶 Music at the Stack: SONAM

• Time: 6:30 PM

• Location: American Tobacco Campus, Raleigh

• Details: Enjoy free live music outdoors with SONAM, a local favorite, in a scenic setting. Details here.

🥁 Raleigh Drum Circle & Hoop Jam

• Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

• Location: Pullen Park, Raleigh

• Details: Bring your drums and join the community for an energetic evening of music and hooping fun. Find out more.

📖 Family Storytimes

• Locations & Times:

  • Cary Regional Library: 9:30 AM

  • Oberlin Regional Library: 9:30 AM

  • Southeast Regional Library (Garner): 10:00 AM

  • North Regional Library (Raleigh): 10:30 AM

  • Green Road Community Library (Raleigh): 10:30 AM

  • Richard B. Harrison Community Library (Raleigh): 10:30 AM

  • Athens Drive Community Library (Raleigh): 4:30 PM

• Details: These interactive storytime sessions are perfect for young children and their families, featuring books, rhymes, and songs. More info here.

🌮 Grand Opening: Mala Pata & Peyote Bar

• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Location: 2431 Crabtree Blvd., Suite 102, Raleigh

• Details: Celebrate the grand opening of Mala Pata, a Latin American restaurant offering fresh seafood and masa dishes, alongside its new Peyote Bar. Details here.

🍷 Orin Swift Wine Tasting

• Time: Evening

• Location: Westgate Wine Bar, Raleigh

• Details: Sample some of Orin Swift's best wines while relaxing in a charming setting. Find out more.

🎨 Sip and Paint at Cheers N Paint

• Time: Evening

• Location: Cheers N Paint, Cary

• Details: Unleash your inner artist in a fun sip-and-paint event. No experience necessary, just bring your creativity. More info here.

📅 May 16–18, 2025
🕐 Fri: 12–10 PM | Sat: 10 AM–10 PM | Sun: 10 AM–8 PM
📍 NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NC
🎶 Live music, BBQ, farming showcases
🎟️ Free admission
🎯 Barbecue, agriculture, and North Carolina pride.

📅 Thursday, May 15, 2025

🎭 Arts & Culture

• Ken Burns: The American Revolution

  • 📍 Fletcher Opera Theater, Raleigh

  • 🕖 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)

  • 🎟️ $70 (supports PBS North Carolina)

  • Join acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns for an exclusive screening and panel discussion on North Carolina's role in the American Revolution.

• Carolina Ballet presents Swan Lake

  • 📍 Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh

  • 🕢 7:30 PM

  • 🎟️ Ticket prices vary

  • Experience the timeless tale of Swan Lake, performed by the Carolina Ballet.

• Creative Writing Workshop

  • 📍 Location TBA

  • 🕚 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Engage in a creative writing session suitable for all ages.

🎶 Music & Entertainment

• Midtown Beach Music Series: The Chairmen of the Board

  • 📍 Midtown Park, Raleigh

  • 🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • 🎟️ $6.15

  • Enjoy beach music vibes with The Chairmen of the Board.

• Gouda Giggles: Stand-up Comedy Night

  • 📍 Artisan Beer and Cheese, Rolesville

  • 🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Laugh the evening away with stand-up comedy and cheese sampling.

🧒 Family & Kids

• Family Storytime

  • 📍 Leesville Community Library, Raleigh

  • 🕙 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Storytime session for young children.

• Baby Storytime

  • 📍 East Regional Library, Knightdale

  • 🕚 11:15 AM – 11:30 AM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Interactive storytime for babies.

• K-5th Adventures: Zen Kaleidoscope Creations

  • 📍 Wake Forest Community Library

  • 🕟 4:30 PM – 5:15 PM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Hands-on activity session for school-age children.

• ABC Craft and Learn

  • 📍 Southgate Community Library, Raleigh

  • 🕠 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Craft and learning activities for young children.

🏛️ Community & Wellness

• Wake County Tobacco-Free Community Forum 2025

  • 📍 Wake County Commons Building, Raleigh

  • 🕓 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

  • 🎟️ Free

  • Join discussions on creating a tobacco-free community, featuring youth speakers and health experts.

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The Benefits of Neroli Essential Oil

Neroli essential oil, extracted from the white blossoms of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium), is beloved for its sweet, floral fragrance and wide array of therapeutic benefits. It’s long been used in aromatherapy, skincare, and even perfume-making due to its soothing and rejuvenating properties.

Top Benefits of Neroli Essential Oil

1. Stress Relief & Anxiety Reduction
   Known for its calming effect, neroli oil helps reduce stress and anxiety. Diffusing it or applying it to the skin can promote relaxation and ease tension.

2. Improved Sleep
   Neroli is a natural sleep aid. Its calming properties make it ideal for promoting restful sleep, helping those who struggle with insomnia or restlessness.

3. Skin Care
   Packed with antioxidants, neroli oil rejuvenates the skin by promoting cell regeneration. It helps reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, making it a great addition to anti-aging skincare routines.

4. Mood Booster
   Its uplifting aroma is known to boost mood and fight mild depression, thanks to its ability to trigger serotonin production in the brain.

5. Antiseptic Properties
   Neroli also has mild antibacterial and antiseptic qualities, which makes it useful in treating minor skin irritations and helping prevent infection.

How to Use Neroli Essential Oil

• Aromatherapy: Diffuse a few drops to ease stress or improve sleep.

• Massage: Dilute with a carrier oil and massage to relieve tension.

• Skin Care: Add to your moisturizer or face oil to promote a healthy, glowing complexion.

• Bath: Add to a warm bath for a relaxing soak.

Why You Should Try Neroli Essential Oil

With its calming, skin-loving properties and refreshing scent, Neroli essential oil is a must-have in any wellness routine. Whether you're looking to relax, improve skin health, or lift your mood, neroli offers a natural, versatile solution for overall well-being.

Help our local food banks support those who are in need!

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

🍔 Get Ready for Good Times at Bud’s Tavern & Grill in Youngsville! 🍻

If you’re searching for the ultimate spot to kick back, grab a cold drink, and chow down on some of the best food around, look no further than Bud’s Tavern & Grill in Youngsville, NC. Whether you're craving a perfectly grilled burger, a plate of crispy wings, or just a place to enjoy good company, Bud’s has it all!

🍔 Burgers That Hit the Spot

Bud’s is known far and wide for its mouthwatering burgers. Cooked to perfection and packed with flavor, these burgers are a crowd favorite for a reason. Not to mention, the wings are just as legendary! Perfectly seasoned and always crispy, they’re a must-try. Pair them with your favorite drink, and you’ve got yourself a winning combo.

When you walk into Bud’s, you’re not just walking into a restaurant—you’re walking into a hub of good vibes and even better people. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes it the ideal place to unwind, grab a drink, and catch up with friends. Whether you're a regular or it's your first time, the staff always makes you feel like family.

🎶 Live Music & Entertainment Galore

Why just eat when you can groove to some live tunes? Bud’s Tavern offers live music every weekend, so no matter when you stop by, you’ll find a band or solo artist setting the mood. Sundays are made for those who love to showcase their talents during the open mic sessions. Whether you're there to watch or participate, the energy is always high!

Bud’s isn’t just about great food and drinks—it’s a place to have fun! Whether you’re up for a friendly pool game, a round of darts, or just chilling on the outdoor deck, there’s something for everyone. It's the kind of spot where time flies by, and every visit feels like a mini celebration.

📍 Where to Find Us

You can find Bud’s Tavern & Grill at:
📍 823 Youngsville Blvd S, Youngsville, NC 27596
📞 (919) 556-2727

Ready to experience the best of Youngsville? Grab your friends, head over to Bud’s Tavern & Grill, and enjoy some delicious food, great drinks, and a fantastic atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax and have a blast—whether it’s a quick bite or a full-on night out!

Reader Recommended!

Mary V. says “It's not actually a full restaurant but if you want a great great burger or taco, Bud's Tavern is a great place.”

Thanks Mary!

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Yard, Garage, & Estate Sales Posted On Fridays.

📍Knightdale, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon 📍

📍 Fuquay-Varina,Garner, & Holly Springs📍

📍 Raleigh, Apex, Cary, & Morrisville📍

We love helping you save time and money! Check out today’s local "Store Ads" section from your phone to find the best deals before you head out to the store!

We've worked diligently to curate this list of exceptional savings for you. Please note that offers may vary by location and are subject to change. We recommend contacting your local store to confirm the specific deals available.

If you find a GREAT Senior discount that is not listed, please let us know!

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