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  • 📫Unsafe Hospitals | Young Neighbor’s Quiet Kindness | Possible TikTok Ban in Schools | Estate & Garage Sales Posted📍

📫Unsafe Hospitals | Young Neighbor’s Quiet Kindness | Possible TikTok Ban in Schools | Estate & Garage Sales Posted📍

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Hello, friends!

As we head into the holiday weekend, the Wake area is brimming with exciting events and opportunities to connect, explore, and enjoy time with family and friends. Be sure to visit the Wake News & Events calendar for a wonderful list of local happenings—you’re sure to find something special for everyone.

While we embrace the beauty and joy of the weekend, let us also take a quiet moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of Memorial Day. This is a time to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country, and to remember the generations of Americans whose sacrifices have safeguarded the freedoms we cherish today.

From the bottom of my heart, I offer my deepest thanks to all who have served—and to the families who have borne the weight of that service. Your courage, commitment, and sacrifice are never forgotten.

Wishing you a safe, meaningful, and memorable Memorial Day weekend.

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

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

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the taffy apply for a job?
Because it wanted to pull in some extra dough! 😄

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

On May 23, 1969, a significant event unfolded in North Carolina's history: the Greensboro Uprising. This civil rights protest escalated into a violent confrontation between students and law enforcement, marking a pivotal moment in the state's struggle for racial justice.

📍On This Day in History📍

1430 – Joan of Arc captured:
French heroine Joan of Arc was captured by the Burgundians at Compiègne, a pivotal moment in the Hundred Years' War. She was later handed over to the English, tried for heresy, and burned at the stake.

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Enjoy Our “Did You Know Section” About North Carolina. Need to get away? Visit Beautiful North Carolina!

National Military Cemeteries in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to four national military cemeteries—New Bern, Raleigh, Salisbury, and Wilmington—each established to honor Union soldiers who perished during the Civil War. These hallowed grounds serve as lasting tributes to the sacrifices of veterans, offering serene resting places steeped in history. Additionally, the state operates veterans’ cemeteries in Black Mountain, Jacksonville, and Spring Lake, which provide further burial options for eligible veterans and their families.

Established in 1867, the New Bern National Cemetery spans 7.7 acres and contains over 7,000 graves, primarily of Civil War soldiers, including members of the United States Colored Troops. It is closed to new interments except for eligible family members in existing gravesites.

Founded in 1866, the Raleigh National Cemetery covers 6.7 acres and holds over 5,000 graves, reflecting its role as a burial ground for Union soldiers and later veterans. Like New Bern, it is no longer open for new burials.

Also established in 1866, the Salisbury National Cemetery is the largest of the four, spanning 15 acres. It is notable for containing the remains of approximately 11,700 Union soldiers, many of whom died at the nearby Salisbury Confederate Prison. As of 2021, it remains the only national cemetery in North Carolina accepting new interments, making it a vital site for honoring modern veterans.

Set up in 1867, the Wilmington National Cemetery covers 5.1 acres and is the final resting place for over 5,000 veterans, primarily from the Civil War era. It, too, is closed to new burials except for family members.

North Carolina’s state veterans’ cemeteries in Black Mountain, Jacksonville, and Spring Lake complement these national sites. They offer modern facilities for veterans, with eligibility typically requiring honorable service or North Carolina residency. These cemeteries provide options for burial or cremation, ensuring veterans across the state are honored.

Together, these cemeteries form a network of remembrance, where traditions like the playing of “Taps” at funerals underscore the gratitude owed to those who served. Each site, whether national or state-operated, stands as a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring legacy of North Carolina’s veterans.

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I’m Marie! As a former teacher turned realtor, I help families relocate to Wake County with expert guidance on school zoning and the market. I’m all about making the process stress-free and enjoyable. When I’m not working, I’m probably fostering dogs, reading, or supporting local businesses!  Follow me on social media for real estate tips, local updates, and cute pups!

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What’s Happening in Wake County?

Fatal Crash on Capital Boulevard in Wake Forest

On May 20, 2025, a tragic wrong-way crash on Capital Boulevard near Star Road in Wake Forest, NC, claimed the life of 24-year-old Katana Perry of Raleigh and left three others seriously injured. The Wake Forest Police Department reported that 74-year-old Willie Gene Coleman of Philadelphia, driving south in a northbound lane, collided with two vehicles around 11:15 p.m. Coleman faces charges, though impairment was not a factor. The road was closed for over four hours as authorities investigated. Read More

State Truck Hits Parked Cars

On May 21, 2025, a state-owned truck crashed into four parked cars on N. Wilmington and Polk Streets in downtown Raleigh, NC, after the driver suffered a medical emergency. State Capitol Police reported no other injuries, and the driver was hospitalized for evaluation. The incident briefly disrupted traffic as Raleigh Police assisted with the ongoing investigation.

In Wake County, known for community acts like a teen mowing a nurse’s lawn, this event reminds residents to stay supportive as they gear up for Memorial Day events like Animazement. Read More

Rabid Coyote Attacks Man

On May 16, 2025, a coyote attacked 24-year-old James Pulliam in a Roxboro neighborhood near Somerset Drive, Person County, NC. The animal, which followed Pulliam and bit him after he fell, was killed by Pulliam in self-defense. On May 20, Person County Animal Services confirmed the coyote tested positive for rabies, marking the county’s third rabies case of 2025. Pulliam, treated for bite wounds and receiving rabies shots, is recovering.

The incident, just north of Wake County, underscores the need for vigilance in communities known for unity, like those hosting events such as Animazement. Wildlife experts urge making loud noises and waving arms to deter coyotes, emphasizing pet vaccinations and caution outdoors. Read More

NC Lawmakers Target TikTok Ban in Schools

North Carolina’s House Bill 959, passed by the House and advancing in the Senate on May 21, 2025, seeks to ban TikTok on school devices and networks in public schools, including Wake County’s. Aimed at protecting students from privacy risks and addictive behaviors linked to TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, the bill also requires social media literacy education. “It’s about keeping kids safe,” said Sen. Warren Daniel. If signed by Gov. Josh Stein, the ban would start in the 2025-26 school year.

This focus on safety echoes Wake County’s community spirit, seen in events like Darkness RISING and local acts of kindness, reinforcing efforts to create secure spaces for students. Read More

North Carolina’s Least Safe Hospitals

The Leapfrog Group’s Spring 2025 Hospital Safety Grades, released on May 1, 2025, evaluated 92 North Carolina hospitals, assigning A through F grades based on over 30 measures of patient safety, including medical errors, infections, and staff communication. North Carolina ranked 12th safest in the U.S., a drop from its No. 4 ranking in Fall 2024, revealing areas for improvement in patient care.

In the Raleigh area, Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford, just outside Wake County, received a C grade, cited for higher-than-average harmful events post-surgery, collapsed lung incidents, and poor patient-staff communication. Statewide, Granville Medical Center in Oxford, about 30 miles north of Raleigh, earned the only D grade, struggling with surgical complications and infection prevention. No North Carolina hospitals received an F grade, but these lower scores highlight critical safety gaps.

In contrast, Wake County’s UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh earned an A grade, one of only 15 hospitals nationwide with straight A’s since Leapfrog’s ratings began in 2012, showcasing robust safety protocols. The report underscores the importance of choosing high-rated hospitals, especially in a community like Wake County, known for its unity through acts like a teen mowing a nurse’s lawn or events like Animazement. Residents can use Leapfrog’s search tool at hospitalsafetygrade.org to make informed healthcare choices, ensuring safety amid the county’s vibrant Memorial Day weekend activities. Read More

Because we can all use some good news!

Young Neighbor’s Quiet Kindness Warms Hearts in Wake County

In Wake County, NC, a 14-year-old named Adam Nixon has become an unexpected hero in his community through a simple yet profound act of kindness. For the past six months, Adam has been mowing the lawn of his neighbor, Pamela LaFontaine, a dedicated registered nurse who often works long, exhausting shifts. Without asking for recognition or payment, Adam quietly tended to her yard every two weeks, ensuring it stayed neat despite her demanding schedule.

Pamela, unaware of the identity of her mysterious helper, was overwhelmed with gratitude when she discovered it was Adam, a local teen driven by a desire to support a frontline worker. “I came home to a freshly cut lawn and thought it was a miracle,” Pamela shared. “Finding out it was Adam, just wanting to help, brought me to tears.”

This heartwarming story, has resonated deeply with the Wake County community, reminding everyone that small, selfless gestures can forge powerful connections.

For a complete list of events in Wake County, visit our “Events Page” below.

📅 Friday, May 23, 2025

Name of the Event

Date & Time

Address

Free Shred Event – Garner

May 23, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Garner Recreation Center, 215 W Main St, Garner, NC

Animazement 2025 (Day 1)

May 23, All Day

Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S Salisbury St, Raleigh

Carolina Fear Fest (Day 1)

May 23, All Day

NC State Fairgrounds, Jim Graham Bldg, Raleigh, NC

Passport to Hawaii - Date Night – Apex

May 23, 6:00 PM

2016 Creekside Landing Dr, Apex, NC

Movie Night: Moana 2 – Cary

May 23, 6:00 PM–9:30 PM

Downtown Cary Park, 327 S Academy St, Cary, NC

KidsWrite! Festival

May 23, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Burning Coal Theatre, 224 Polk St, Raleigh, NC

Triangle Academy of Dance Recital

May 23, 7:00 PM

Fletcher Opera Theater, 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC

LUAU Party w/ Live DJ – Apex

May 23, 7:00 PM

800 W Williams St Suite 100, Apex, NC

Karaoke Night – Garner

May 23, 8:30 PM–10:30 PM

MoonRunners Saloon, 1506 US-70, Garner, NC

Front Porch Fridays – Knightdale

May 23, Evening

Haven Farm, 8521 Buffaloe Rd, Knightdale, NC

📅 Saturday, May 24, 2025

Name of the Event

Date & Time

Address

Holly Springs Farmers Market

May 24, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM

300 W Ballentine St, Holly Springs, NC

Vendor Fair at Treelight Square – Raleigh

May 24, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM

Treelight Square, 4500 Main Street, Raleigh, NC

Animazement 2025 (Day 2)

May 24, All Day

Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S Salisbury St, Raleigh

Carolina Fear Fest (Day 2)

May 24, All Day

NC State Fairgrounds, Jim Graham Bldg, Raleigh, NC

ACC Baseball Championship (Semifinals)

May 24, All Day

DBAP, 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC

North Carolina Reptile Show (Day 1)

May 24, All Day

Exposition Center, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NC

Triangle Academy of Dance Recital

May 24, 11:00 AM

Fletcher Opera Theater, 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC

KidsWrite! Festival

May 24, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Burning Coal Theatre, 224 Polk St, Raleigh, NC

Big Top Circus Band – Cary

May 24, 7:00 PM–8:30 PM

Downtown Cary Park, 327 S Academy St, Cary, NC

Summerfest Opening Night (Rhapsody in Blue)

May 24, 8:00 PM

Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC

Night Market at North Hills

May 24, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

4321 Lassiter at North Hills Ave, Raleigh, NC

📅 Sunday, May 25, 2025

Name of the Event

Date & Time

Address

NC Sugar Rush Festival

May 25, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

City Plaza, Fayetteville St, Downtown Raleigh, NC

Crafternoon @ Green Road Library

May 25, 1:00 PM–3:00 PM

4101 Green Rd, Raleigh, NC

Carolina Fear Fest (Day 3)

May 25, All Day

Jim Graham Building, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NC

Animazement 2025 (Final Day)

May 25, All Day

Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S Salisbury St, Raleigh

North Carolina Reptile Show (Day 2)

May 25, All Day

Exposition Center, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NC

ACC Baseball Championship Game

May 25, Afternoon (TBD)

DBAP, 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC

🌟 Memorial Day Ceremonies in Wake County🌟

Monday, May 26, 2025

Honor and remember our heroes by attending one of these local Memorial Day events:

Time

Event Name

Town

Location

9:30 AM

Memorial Day Observance

Garner

Garner Veterans Memorial, Lake Benson Park, 921 Buffaloe Road

9:30 AM

Memorial Day Ceremony

Apex

Downtown Service Memorial, 220 N. Salem Street

11:00 AM

Memorial Day Ceremony

Knightdale

Knightdale Veterans Memorial, Knightdale Station Park, 810 N. First Avenue

11:00 AM

Memorial Mile

Rolesville

Rolesville Town Hall, 502 Southtown Circle

2:30 PM

Memorial Day Remembrance

Cary

Veterans Freedom Park, 1517 N. Harrison Ave

Be sure to click below to review our “Events Calendar” with over 100 events featured.

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👇👇👇

Discover Village Deli & Grill

Wake Forest’s Cozy Culinary Gem 🍽️

If you’re looking for a local spot that feels like a home away from home, Village Deli & Grill in Wake Forest is the place to be. Since 1996, this charming eatery has been serving up a delicious mix of classic comfort foods and fresh, flavorful dishes — all in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What makes Village Deli so special? It’s their commitment to quality, community, and great taste. From hearty sandwiches like the famous Turkey & Bacon Club to lighter options like their crisp Mediterranean Salad, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss their fan-favorite Avocado Turkey Brie Panini — a perfect blend of creamy brie, ripe avocado, and tender turkey, pressed to perfection.

Village Deli & Grill also takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting area farmers and sustainable practices. This means your meal isn’t just tasty — it’s a nod to our community and environment.

Open from 11 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and Saturdays (with shorter hours on Sunday), it’s easy to stop by for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed weekend bite. Whether you dine in, carry out, or order online, Village Deli offers a welcoming spot for Wake Forest residents and visitors alike.

Next time you’re craving good food and great vibes, make your way to Village Deli & Grill — where every meal feels like a neighborhood gathering.

Comment by Julie M.

“My husband and I eat there once a week and love it!”

……………………….👇👇👇………………..……

If you have a restaurant you would like us to review and possibly feature, send us a suggestion. We would love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected] If we choose to review the restaurant, they will be featured for a week FREE of charge in our newsletter.
 

Wake Happy Hours🍸

Time to kick back, let loose, and have some fun without torching your wallet. How about crashing a "Happy Hour" to wine down the wild way? Think tasty little bites, killer cocktails, and your crew cracking up around you. Get ready to dig our epic lineup of local hotspots that’ll make you the hero of chill! 🍸🍋

Kids Eat Free👶

The fridge is a barren wasteland, and the kids are roaring like little hunger monsters! Oh, and surprise, your stomach’s growling too! After a bonkers day, you’re craving a spot to chow down with the crew, but your wallet’s giving you the side-eye. No stress—we’ve got your back! 👋👶

Flip to page 3 for "Kids Eat Free Deals"

Early Bird Savings For Seniors📍

You’re free to do whatever, whenever! But tonight? Cooking’s a hard pass. Now that you’re rocking that wise-and-mature vibe, you’re all about early dinners (gotta catch those Z’s like a champ). So why not snag some epic "Senior Deals" and keep your wallet happy too?💓🫂

Swing over to page 4!

It’s your day off or the weekend—time to get out, have fun, and enjoy life! But wait… what’s even happening around town? You could surf the internet for hours (ugh) or… you could make one quick stop right here at Wake News & Events!

Wake Events Calendar📅

We’ve got the latest local happenings all in one place—fast, easy, and super convenient. No more scrolling endlessly or missing out on cool stuff. From family fun and food deals to live events and hidden gems, we’ve got your weekend plans covered.

Wake News & Events—your go-to guide for good times in Wake County and beyond! 💃🕺

We just added the FREE MOVIE NIGHT CALENDAR! Check it out!

Treasure Hunters Take Note!🥇 

Our Estate & Yard Sale section has found a new home! Starting this week, all the best local sales will be posted at our brand-new link—just a click away.

Whether you're on the hunt for hidden gems, vintage finds, or the perfect weekend adventure, this is your key to treasure hunting in Wake County.

🎬 Free Outdoor Family Movie Nights in Wake County! 🍿🌟

Get ready to grab your blankets, pack some popcorn, and enjoy some unforgettable movie nights under the stars! 🌙✨ Wake County is rolling out a fantastic lineup of FREE outdoor family movie nights that are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Ready, Set, Play! 🎯

Unleash your inner competitor with a world of online games — from clever crosswords and twisty anagram word searches to click-and-snap digital jigsaw puzzles and more. Whether you're a word wizard or puzzle pro, it's time to find your inner champion and have an absolute blast! 🎱

If your business event, or restaurant, is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

Weekly Ads

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!

💲Harris Teeter Coupons 

Thurs. Seniors Save 10%! Up to $1.00 off per gal. on fuel.

💲Food Lion Coupons  

💲Lowes Food Coupons   

Save 5¢ per gallon for every $100 spent in-store.

💲Lidl Foods Coupons 

💲Publix Coupons 5% off for Seniors on Wed.

💲Aldi Coupons 

💲Walmart Coupons

No Senior Discounts

💲Kohl’s  Coupons  

15% off on Wed. for Seniors

💲Target Coupons

No Senior Discounts

💲Michael’s Coupons

10% off w/Rewards Card”

💲Pet Smart Coupons

Seniors & Millitary 10% off on Tues

💲Walgreen Coupons 

Seniors 20% off 1st Tues. of month

Reach Your Audience/Increase Your Business

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