📫NC Senate Votes to Let Private School Staff Carry Guns | Follow Up On Wake School | Treasure Hunting | Tons of Estate & Garage Sales📍

🌸 Happy Mother’s Day 🌸

Today, we celebrate the heart of what it means to nurture, love, and support. Whether you're a birth mom, an adoptive mom, a stepmom, or a woman who gives her heart and care to others in countless ways—you are seen, appreciated, and celebrated.

Thank you for the strength, warmth, and compassion you bring to the world. Wishing you a beautiful, peaceful, and joy-filled Mother’s Day!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

PS; Be sure to check out our newly updated “Seniors Early Bird Specials” section. We just updated this section with over 200 locations!

📧 [email protected] 

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

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🌶️New Boujee Upscale Resale! Hot Deals!🌶️

🤣-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

.….👶Kids Eat Free

…..👴Senior Deals

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

🤹 - Local Business & Restaurant Spotlight

🆕 - This week’s grocery & store ads

🌶️ - Watch for “HOT DEALS”

➡️ - New Community Survey

Special Update Editions!

♦️Wednesday - Events Calendar Update♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Garage & Estate Sales♦️

Here is a list of Businesses offering teacher discounts this week!

🍽️ Local Wake County Restaurant Offers

Toyar’s BBQ & Hotpot – Morrisville

Teachers can enjoy 10% off their dine-in meals all week long.

Bengong’s Tea – Morrisville

Get 10% off any drink when you show your school badge.

SoHot Hotpot – Raleigh & Cary

Receive 10% off your total bill in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.

MeetFresh – Raleigh

All teachers get 10% off desserts and beverages with valid ID.

Kobe Japanese Steak House & Yige Asian Cuisine – Clayton

Educators receive a 10% discount on all meals during the week.

🍔 Fast Food & Quick Service Deals for Teachers

Sonic Drive-In

Teachers who sign up for the free Teachers' Circle rewards program by May 6 can unlock exclusive perks, including:

• Free cheeseburgers

• BOGO drinks and sides

• BOGO SONIC Blasts

Whataburger

From May 5–9, educators can claim a free breakfast entrée (like a taquito, Breakfast on a Bun, or honey butter chicken biscuit) from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. with ID.

Chick-fil-A (Triangle Locations)

On Tuesday, May 6, receive:

• Free Chick-n-Minis in the morning

• Free original chicken sandwich after 10:30 a.m.

McDonald’s (Participation Varies)

Some locations offer free breakfast sandwiches or drinks to teachers with valid ID—check with your local franchise.

🥪 Fast-Casual Restaurant Perks

MOD Pizza

Buy one MOD-sized pizza or salad, get another one free from May 5–8. ID required.

McAlister’s Deli

Enjoy a free Big Tea (any flavor) from May 5–12—no purchase necessary, just show your school ID.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

From May 5–11, teachers get a free cookie or fountain drink with any entrée purchase.

Insomnia Cookies

Show your school ID and receive one free classic cookie from May 5–11. No purchase required.

🐔 Sit-Down Restaurant Specials

Buffalo Wild Wings

Get 20% off your dine-in or takeout meal from May 6–12. Just show your school badge when you order.

Applebee’s

Receive a free appetizer with the purchase of an entrée when dining in (offer good through May 13).

Shake Shack

Enjoy a free milkshake with any purchase from May 6–12—just flash your educator ID.

🛍️ Retail & Tech Discounts

Staples

From May 4–10, teachers receive:

• 20% off in-store purchases

• A free 12-pack of pens with ID

Samsung

Save up to 30% on phones, laptops, and other tech when enrolled in Samsung’s Education Program.

Apple

Special education pricing on Macs, iPads, and accessories for verified educators.

Lenovo

Discounted pricing sitewide for teachers shopping through the Lenovo Education Store.

Eyemart Express

Educators receive an extra 20% off their purchase of eyeglasses or frames.

Costco

New members receive a bonus gift card:

• $20 with Gold Star membership

• $40 with Executive membership

🎉 Special Giveaways & Bonuses

Chipotle

Teachers can enter to win a free meal via Chipotle’s online sweepstakes at teacherthanks.chipotle.com through May 12.

Box Tops for Education

Earn an additional $5 for your school by scanning your first receipt using the Box Tops app with code TEACHER before May 31.

If you love fashion and style, join us at “Get Boujee.” If you love great deals and savings but love looking your best and want to dress in the latest trends with a lot of class thrown in, join us on Facebook at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Need decorating ideas but don’t want to have to run all over to find those perfect items? Join us on FB at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Join us at “Get Boujee” where fashion and Great Value Come Together!

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why don’t moms ever need bookmarks? Because their kids never let them finish a page anyway!😎📚

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

1916 Pinehurst, NC– The world's first miniature golf course was built in Pinehurst.

📍On This Day in History📍

🌍1994 – Nelson Mandela elected President of South Africa: Though he was elected on May 6, his inauguration was held on May 9, 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of majority rule.Share the newsletter

A Legacy of Festivals

From First to Favorite
By WN&E Newsletter

North Carolina has a long and colorful tradition of bringing communities together through festivals. From local harvest gatherings to large-scale cultural celebrations, the state offers something for everyone—and has done so for well over a century.

The earliest known festival in North Carolina dates back to the 1800s, with roots in agricultural fairs. One of the most significant early events was the North Carolina State Fair, which first took place in 1853 in Raleigh. Created to promote agriculture and education, it quickly became a gathering place for farmers, families, and artisans across the state.

Today, North Carolina hosts over 1,100 festivals annually, covering everything from seafood and music to pottery, craft beer, film, and more. Cities like Asheville, Wilmington, Charlotte, and the Triangle area are packed year-round with opportunities to celebrate.

Among the many beloved events, the North Carolina State Fair remains the largest and most iconic. Held every October in Raleigh, this fair attracts nearly 1 million visitors each year, making it not just the top festival in the state—but one of the largest in the entire country.

Why It’s #1:

• Historic Roots: Founded in 1853, it’s one of the oldest state fairs in the U.S.

• Massive Attendance: Averages close to 1 million visitors over 11 days.

• Diverse Attractions:

  • Agricultural exhibits and livestock shows

  • Carnival rides and games

  • Fried food creations (deep-fried Oreos, anyone?)

  • Live music and talent showcases

  • Arts & crafts competitions

  • Heritage displays and educational booths

  • Fireworks and parades

The NC State Fair ranks among the top 10 state fairs in the United States, alongside well-known events like the Texas State Fair and Minnesota State Fair. While those fairs may draw slightly larger crowds, North Carolina’s version is celebrated for its unique Southern hospitality, diverse offerings, and focus on education and family-friendly entertainment.

🎶 Honorable Mention: Dreamville Festival

For music lovers, another standout is Dreamville Festival, founded by North Carolina native J. Cole. Though newer (launched in 2019), it draws 100,000+ attendees and puts Raleigh on the global music map every spring.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, North Carolina’s festival season offers endless opportunities to eat, dance, learn, and celebrate. From its first fair to today’s top events, the Tar Heel State knows how to throw a party—y’all come on out!

Just a few upcoming events! For a comprehensive list of festivals, please visit our events page. Click Here!

🎨 May 2025 Festivals

🌾 Got to Be NC Festival
📍 Raleigh | 📅 May 16–18
Kick off summer with tractors, BBQ, live music, and a celebration of all things North Carolina agriculture. A family favorite at the State Fairgrounds.

🎭 Artsplosure – The Raleigh Arts Festival
📍 Raleigh | 📅 May 17–18
Downtown Raleigh comes alive with art, music, food trucks, and interactive fun—perfect for art lovers and families alike.

🎉 Matthews Summerfest
📍 Matthews | 📅 May 10
A charming downtown celebration with local vendors, food, music, and fun for all ages in this cozy Charlotte suburb.

🎶 June 2025 Festivals

🎸 Cold Mountain Music Festival
📍 Lake Logan – Canton | 📅 June 1
Nestled in the mountains, this laid-back festival offers great tunes, outdoor fun, and scenic vibes in Western NC.

🌊 Carolina Beach Music Festival
📍 Carolina Beach | 📅 June 7
Shag dancing in the sand? Yes, please! One of the few beach music festivals actually held on the beach.

🍴 Taste of Charlotte
📍 Charlotte | 📅 June 6–8
Try bites from dozens of restaurants, stroll through uptown, and enjoy entertainment across multiple stages.

🪕 Mount Airy Bluegrass & Old-Time Fiddlers Convention
📍 Mount Airy | 📅 June 6–7
Step into Andy Griffith’s hometown for a toe-tapping, down-home music celebration.

🧨July 2025 Festivals

🎆 NC 4th of July Festival
📍 Southport | 📅 July 1–4
One of the state’s biggest Independence Day celebrations with fireworks, a parade, and plenty of coastal charm.

🛍️ The Big Crafty
📍 Asheville | 📅 July 13
More than a market—this indie art party draws artists and makers from across the Southeast. A must-visit for handmade lovers.

🍏 August 2025 Festivals

🎨 Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
📍 Cary | 📅 August 23–24
With over 300 artists, delicious food, and local beer, this long-running event fills Cary with color and creativity.

🎻 NC State Bluegrass Festival
📍 Marion | 📅 August 14–16
Bring a lawn chair and settle in for three days of foot-stomping bluegrass under the summer sky.

🎶 Earl Scruggs Music Festival
📍 Mill Spring | 📅 August 29–31
Bluegrass legends and fresh talent come together to honor a North Carolina music icon. It’s Labor Day weekend done right.

🍎 NC Apple Festival
📍 Hendersonville | 📅 August 29–Sept 1
Celebrate apple season in the mountains with street fairs, tastings, music, and a hometown parade.

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

🏡- Why Yard & Estate Sales

Are Hotter Than Ever

Whether you're on the hunt for a vintage lamp, a designer handbag at a steal, or just a Saturday morning adventure, yard sales and estate sales are back in a big way—and more popular than ever. Every Friday we list local Wake County Yard and Estate Sales in our newsletter. We thought it would be helpful to provide a few tips to increase your treasure hunting success.

📈 Why the Boom in Popularity?

A mix of factors has fueled this secondhand shopping surge:

• Economic Savvy: With prices rising on just about everything, folks are turning to sales for budget-friendly finds.

• Sustainability: Buying secondhand is a great way to reduce waste and keep items out of landfills.

• Nostalgia & Style: From retro Pyrex to mid-century furniture, unique, quality-made items from the past are in demand.

• Resale Potential: Many treasure hunters are flipping finds online for profit, using platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Etsy.

🔍 What to Look For

Whether you're a collector, decorator, or reseller, keep an eye out for:

• Quality over quantity – Look for well-made items, even if they need a little TLC.

• Designer labels – Vintage fashion, bags, and shoes can carry major resale value.

• Solid wood furniture – Older pieces are often better built than modern equivalents.

• Kitchenware – Brands like Pyrex, Fire-King, Le Creuset, and vintage Tupperware are always in demand.

• Old tools and electronics – Some retro tech and hand tools are prized by hobbyists and collectors.

• Art & decor – You never know when you’ll find an original painting or artisan pottery.

🧠 How to Know What It’s Worth

Before handing over your cash, here are a few quick tips to check an item’s value:

• Use your phone! Look up similar items on eBay (sold listings only), Etsy, or Google Lens.

• Check condition – Chips, stains, missing parts? These can dramatically affect value.

• Rely on brand names – If you see a stamp, tag, or signature, take note—it might mean something.

• Download a resale app – Apps like WorthPoint (paid), eBay, or even Pinterest can help identify and price items quickly.

💡 Yard Sale Success Tips

• Bring cash – Many sellers still prefer it, and it can help you negotiate.

• Get there early – The best items go fast!

• Or show up late – You might score deep discounts as sellers look to clear out.

• Be polite and curious – Ask about the story behind items. People love to share, and you might get a deal in return.

Bottom Line: Whether you're shopping for fun, profit, or both, yard and estate sales are a goldmine of hidden gems and fascinating stories. Plus, it’s just plain fun! So grab a coffee, a tote bag, and hit the sales—you never know what treasure is waiting for you.

If you are having a yard or estate sale, let us know. We would be happy to list it for you.

NC Senate Votes to Let Private School Staff Carry Guns

The North Carolina Senate recently passed a bill that would allow teachers, staff, and approved volunteers at private schools to carry concealed firearms on campus, provided they meet specific conditions. This proposed law, aimed at enhancing school safety, requires individuals to have a valid concealed carry permit and written permission from the school’s board or administrative leaders. In addition to standard permit training, those authorized would need to complete at least eight hours of firearm safety training each year. Schools that choose to participate must also create a formal firearms policy and distribute it to parents annually, ensuring transparency with families.

The bill goes a step further by permitting concealed carry during religious services held on private school grounds, as long as the person has the proper approvals. Supporters believe this added layer of protection is especially important for smaller private schools that may not have the resources to hire dedicated security. On the other hand, critics are concerned about the potential risks of introducing more firearms into school environments, including accidental shootings or misuse. They also question whether the proposed training is sufficient to ensure safety. As the bill moves forward, it’s sparking an ongoing debate across North Carolina about the best ways to balance student safety with responsible gun policies.

Big Changes at Crabtree-New Life for the Old Sears Space

After years of sitting vacant, the massive former Sears space at Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh is finally getting a new tenant—and it’s a big one. Dick’s Sporting Goods has announced plans to open one of its innovative “House of Sport” concept stores in the 168,000-square-foot location, bringing energy and excitement back to a corner of the mall that’s been quiet since 2018.

This isn't your average sporting goods store. The "House of Sport" model combines retail with interactive experiences like indoor rock climbing, sports simulators, and turf fields—giving customers a chance to test out equipment or just have fun while they shop. It’s all part of a nationwide trend toward more immersive, experience-based shopping.

The move comes as part of a larger $290 million revitalization effort aimed at modernizing Crabtree Valley Mall and keeping it competitive in today’s changing retail landscape. While earlier ideas for the old Sears spot included a 30-story tower with retail, hotel, and office space, those plans have been paused. In the meantime, bringing in a dynamic brand like Dick’s—with a format designed to attract families, athletes, and casual shoppers alike—is a smart play.

Crabtree Valley Mall continues to draw strong crowds, and the addition of Dick’s House of Sport is expected to strengthen that momentum. It also signals that, even in a world of online shopping, brick-and-mortar spaces can thrive—when they offer something unique.

So if you’ve been wondering what would ever replace the empty Sears wing, get ready. A fresh chapter is on the way—and this one comes with climbing walls and turf fields.

Wake County Schools Caught in Nationwide Data Breach Fallout

Power School Hacker Now Demanding Ransom from Local Districts

A troubling cybersecurity incident involving PowerSchool—the student data system used by Wake County Public Schools and thousands of other districts nationwide—is making headlines again. Months after PowerSchool paid a ransom to prevent the release of stolen data, the hacker has returned, now threatening individual school districts with demands for more money.

PowerSchool is a widely used digital platform that stores everything from student grades and attendance records to staff employment data and emergency medical alerts. For Wake County parents, teachers, and students, it’s the backbone of school operations. Unfortunately, it’s also become a prime target for cybercriminals.

The breach, which occurred late last year, exposed sensitive data from millions of users. Wake County Schools confirmed that personal information—such as names, addresses, dates of birth, and in some cases Social Security numbers—was compromised. Although no student Social Security numbers were leaked, some staff members were affected. PowerSchool responded by offering two years of identity theft protection and credit monitoring services to those impacted.

Now, the same hacker is resurfacing, demanding additional ransoms from local school districts, including some in North Carolina. Threats to publish or sell the stolen data have raised fresh concerns about long-term privacy risks and the potential misuse of sensitive school community information.

Wake County Public Schools is urging families and staff to stay alert, monitor their financial accounts, and consider placing a credit freeze if necessary. They’ve also reminded the community that free monitoring services are still available and encouraged everyone to make use of them.

This incident shines a harsh light on the vulnerabilities of digital education systems and is prompting broader discussions about how schools protect student and staff data. Investigations are ongoing at both the state and federal levels, and North Carolina officials are actively reviewing the state’s data management systems.

As our local schools focus on recovery and safety, this situation serves as a reminder to us all: in today’s connected world, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Business Closures in Wake County

Despite the positive growth, several businesses have closed their doors in 2025, reflecting the challenges within the evolving market:

• The Teach Me Store (Raleigh): After 34 years, this educational resource store closed its physical location, transitioning to an online model.

• Walgreens: Two stores in Raleigh and Durham were closed as part of a nationwide reduction strategy.

• Joann Fabric & Craft Stores: All local outlets, including those in Raleigh, Cary, and Durham, ceased operations amid broader company restructuring.

• 42nd Street Oyster Bar (Raleigh): This iconic restaurant ended its nearly century-long run in March.

• Carolina Ale House (Glenwood South, Raleigh): The location closed and is set to be replaced by a new entertainment venue.

• Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (Cary): The restaurant closed in December 2024 and filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

• Lowes Foods (Cary): The Preston Corners store is scheduled to close on May 14.

• Advance Auto Parts: The Raleigh-based company announced plans to close 700 stores nationwide, impacting local operations.

• Cary Towne Center: Redevelopment plans by Epic Games were withdrawn, leaving the site vacant.

While precise numbers for business openings and closures in Wake County for 2025 are not specified, the trend indicates a net positive growth. The substantial investments by companies like Amgen and Weatherby Healthcare, along with numerous other expansions, suggest that new business activities are outpacing closures, reinforcing Wake County's position as a thriving economic hub.

Wake County Job Growth in 2025 is a Complex Landscape

As of mid-2025, detailed job growth statistics for Wake County in the first quarter remain unavailable. However, trends observed statewide and within the region offer valuable insights into the current labor market.

North Carolina’s labor market has seen a significant shift since the peak of the pandemic. According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the state's unemployment rate in early 2025 hovers around 3.8%, reflecting a steady recovery from higher rates during the pandemic era. This decrease in unemployment is indicative of economic stabilization, though it also suggests that job growth has slowed somewhat compared to the rapid recovery years following the COVID-19 crisis.

While statewide trends show signs of cooling, Wake County continues to see investments and expansions. For example, Weatherby Healthcare, a staffing firm in the medical field, announced a major expansion in Raleigh, which will create 155 new jobs and inject $7.6 million into the local economy. This expansion highlights ongoing opportunities in certain sectors, despite the broader slowdowns in hiring.

However, employers have been cautious, with some companies instituting hiring freezes or reducing hiring in response to broader economic uncertainty. This has made it more challenging for job seekers to find openings, although unemployment remains relatively low.

In conclusion, while job growth in Wake County may not be as robust as it was during the earlier stages of recovery, the region’s economic fundamentals remain strong. The influx of investments from expanding businesses such as Weatherby Healthcare demonstrates that new opportunities are still emerging, even as the labor market adjusts to new realities.

What To Do On Mother’s Day Weekend

🌸 Mother's Day Brunches in Wake County

Doherty’s Irish Pub & Restaurant – Apex, NC

• Event: Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet

• Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Details: Enjoy a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including Doherty's favorites and specialty items created by the team.

• Location: 1103 W Williams St, Apex, NC 27502

• Reservations: Required; available online starting April 27

• More Info: Dohertys Irish PubDohertys Irish Pub+1Dohertys Irish Pub+1Dohertys Irish Pub+1Instagram+1

The Mayton – Cary, NC

• Event: Mother’s Day Brunch

• Time: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

• Details: Full brunch menu featuring a variety of dishes to celebrate moms.

• Location: 301 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511

• Reservations: Recommended

• More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

The Goat Brier Creek – Raleigh, NC

• Event: Mother’s Day Brunch

• Time: 10:00 AM

• Details: Celebrate Mother's Day with a special brunch menu in a vibrant atmosphere.

• Location: 8320 Brier Creek Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27617

• Reservations: Available online

• More Info: Eventbrite

🍷 Vineyard Events in Wake County

ZincHouse Winery & Brewery – Durham, NC

• Event: Mother’s Day Flower Arrangement Workshop

• Date & Time: Sunday, May 11, 2025, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

• Details: Create a beautiful floral arrangement while enjoying a glass of wine.

• Location: 6225 Wake Forest Hwy, Durham, NC 27703

• Reservations: Required

• More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

Cloer Family Vineyards – Apex, NC

• Event: Sip, Learn & Bloom: A Mother’s Day Wine & Floral Affair

• Date & Time: Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Details: Enjoy a wine tasting and floral design class in a picturesque vineyard setting.

• Location: 8624 Castleberry Rd, Apex, NC 27523

• Reservations: Required

• More Info: Triangle on the Cheap

🌟 Friday, May 9

🔭 Stargazing with Sagan

• Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Location: West Point on the Eno, Durham

• Details: Enjoy a night under the stars with telescope viewing, hands-on activities, and an outdoor screening of Carl Sagan’s classic series, Cosmos.

• Admission: Free

🛍️ Vintage Market Days® NC Triangle Mother's Day Event

• Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Location: Jim Graham Building, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

• Details: An upscale, vintage-inspired indoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, and more.

• Admission: From $20 (children 12 and under free)

🌸 Saturday, May 10

🎉 Raleigh Spring Festival – Mother's Day Celebration

• Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Location: Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh

• Details: Live music, food trucks, vendors, games with prizes, face painting, and a special "Best Mom Dance" celebration.

• Admission: Free

🎨 Cheers N Paint's Parent and Me Class: Mama and Baby Birds

• Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

• Location: 2773 NC Hwy 55, Cary

• Details: A painting class for parents and children to create a "Mama and Baby Birds" artwork together.

• Cost: $27 – $50

🛍️ Mother's Day Market

• Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

• Location: Boxcar Bar + Arcade, Downtown Raleigh

• Details: Shop from local artisans and vendors for unique gifts.

• Admission: Free

🎶 Ritmo Latino Festival

• Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Location: Downtown Cary

• Details: A celebration of Latino culture with music, art, dance, and food.

• Admission: Free

🖼️ Wine and Design Apex: Mini and Me Pastel Elephants

• Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

• Location: 5456 Apex Peakway, Apex

• Details: A painting session suitable for all ages to create pastel elephant artwork.

• Cost: $29 per ticket

💐 Sunday, May 11 (Mother’s Day)

🖼️ Mother's Day Tea at NC Museum of Art

• Time: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

• Location: NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

• Details: Enjoy a personalized tea experience including sweet and savory spring-inspired canapés.

🧘 Mother’s Day Yoga at Fortnight Brewing

• Time: Morning (Exact time TBA)

• Location: Fortnight Brewing Company, Cary

• Details: Outdoor vinyasa flow yoga session suitable for all levels.

🍽️ Mother’s Day Brunch Options

• Peck & Plume at The Mayton Inn, Cary

  • Time: 8:00 AM – 2:15 PM

  • Cost: $79 per adult, $29 per child under 10

  • Details: Southern-inspired brunch with favorites like Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict and Pancakes.

• The Willard Rooftop Lounge, Raleigh

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

  • Cost: $30 per person, $15 for kids 6-12, 5 and under are free

  • Details: Brunch favorites with a rooftop view.

• Herons at The Umstead Hotel, Cary

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Cost: $115 per adult, $35 per child (ages 2 to 10)

  • Details: An elevated Mother’s Day brunch celebration with a four-course choice menu.

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Bergamot Essential Oil

A Citrus Scent with Powerful Benefits

Bergamot essential oil, derived from the rind of the Citrus bergamia fruit, is a fragrant and versatile oil widely used in aromatherapy, skincare, and even the food and beverage industry. Best known as the distinct flavor in Earl Grey tea, this essential oil offers a wide array of benefits for the body and mind.

Bergamot is primarily grown in southern Italy, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal. The essential oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the fruit, producing a light greenish-yellow oil with a fresh, sweet, and slightly spicy citrus aroma.

One of the most well-known uses of bergamot oil is for its uplifting and calming effects. Inhaling its scent can:

• Help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression

• Promote a sense of relaxation and well-being

• Support better sleep quality when diffused before bedtime

It is often used in blends for mood enhancement or in meditation practices for its grounding-yet-light aroma.

Bergamot oil is prized in natural skincare, but with a note of caution (see safety tips below). It offers:

• Antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help with acne and oily skin

• Support in treating eczema and psoriasis

• A brightening effect when diluted and applied to skin (in the absence of sun exposure)

It is also added to shampoos for its refreshing scent and potential to help control oily scalp conditions.

Other Uses

• Digestive aid: When used in massage (properly diluted), bergamot oil can relieve indigestion and bloating.

• Natural deodorizer: Its clean scent makes it ideal for DIY perfumes, room sprays, and cleaning products.

• Immune booster: Some studies suggest bergamot oil may help stimulate immune response due to its antimicrobial properties.

Bergamot essential oil contains compounds known as furocoumarins, which can cause photosensitivity—a reaction that can lead to burns or skin discoloration when exposed to sunlight after topical use. To use safely:

• Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin

• Avoid direct sun or UV exposure for at least 12 hours after application

• Choose furocoumarin-free (FCF) versions if available for topical use

Bergamot essential oil is a powerful and pleasant tool in the world of natural wellness. Whether you're looking to lift your mood, clear your skin, or simply enjoy its crisp citrus aroma, this oil is a beautiful addition to your essential oil collection—used safely and wisely.

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

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

Big Ed’s in Garner: A Taste of Southern Tradition

Tucked along Timber Drive in Garner, North Carolina, Big Ed’s Restaurant is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a continuation of a local legacy that began more than six decades ago. Known for its warm hospitality and timeless comfort food, Big Ed’s in Garner brings the charm of old-school Southern cooking to a growing community that values tradition as much as taste.

The original Big Ed’s was founded in 1958 by Ed Watkins, a Wake County native who crafted his recipes from childhood meals on his family’s farm. After decades of success in Raleigh, the restaurant’s spirit expanded to Garner in 2019, where the same dedication to homestyle cooking and community values now thrives.

Stepping into Big Ed’s in Garner is like stepping into a cozy country kitchen. Breakfast is served all day, featuring oversized pancakes, flaky biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, and thick slices of country ham. Weekday lunch and dinner menus offer comfort classics like fried catfish, chicken salad sandwiches, and down-home vegetable sides that taste like they came straight from a Southern garden.

Big Ed’s has quickly become a favorite among Garner residents, appreciated for its hearty portions, reasonable prices, and inviting staff. Locals often rave about the "larger-than-life" pancakes and the feeling of being treated like family. The décor is simple but nostalgic, evoking the feel of a farmhouse kitchen, with checkered tablecloths and walls lined with vintage memorabilia.

What sets Big Ed’s apart, aside from the food, is its commitment to consistency and heart. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you can count on a plate that’s been prepared with care and a greeting that feels like home.

Now operated by Sam and Lynn Hobgood, who took over the original restaurant in 2006, the Garner location holds true to Big Ed Watkins’ founding principles: good food, made right, served with genuine Southern hospitality. The Hobgoods have been careful stewards of this legacy, ensuring that every dish—from grits to gravy—honors the original recipes while still fitting into the rhythm of modern life.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, Big Ed’s in Garner offers a dining experience that feels like Sunday supper at grandma’s house—no reservation required.

5009 Falls of Neuse Road

Raleigh, NC 27609

919-747-9533

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