📫New Home Buyer's Guide In This Issue | Celebrate The Arts | Wake County May End Chrome Book Program In The Schools📍

Good morning, friends!

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our communities. May 15 is National Peace Officers Memorial Day, a solemn reminder of the law enforcement officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty. In their memory, U.S. flags are to be flown at half-staff today.

If you see an officer out in the community today, take a moment to say thank you—a kind word goes a long way. And if you're feeling generous, consider picking up their coffee or lunch. These heroes run toward danger when others run away, and they dedicate their lives to making our neighborhoods safer, better places to live.

Let’s show them that their courage does not go unnoticed.

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

Many times your email provider will cut the newsletter articles off. If this happens, you will not be able to read the entire newsletter. Use the button below to read all the articles and this newsletter online.

🌶️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♦️

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 did the police officer patrol the bakery?
Because he heard there was a sticky bun situation!😎📚

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Pinehurst, North Carolina is often called the “St. Andrews of American Golf”? Home to Pinehurst No. 2, one of the most iconic courses in the country, it has hosted more single golf championships than any other course in America—including the U.S. Open, U.S. Amateur, and the Ryder Cup! 🏌️‍♂️🌲⛳

📍On This Day in History📍

1862 – U.S. Department of Agriculture established:
President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation creating the USDA, calling it "The People’s Department" to help American farmers.

💎 Little-Known Gem Mining Trivia – North Carolina Edition

• The first documented discovery of emeralds in North America happened in North Carolina in the 1800s, and the state remains one of just a few places in the U.S. where gem-quality emeralds are found.

• The largest emerald ever discovered in North America—a whopping 64-carat emerald—was unearthed at Hiddenite, NC. The town is one of the only places in the world where the rare green gem "hiddenite" (named after the town) is found.

• North Carolina was once known as the “Gold and Gem Capital of the East”, thanks to its deposits of emeralds, rubies, sapphires, garnets, amethysts, and even gold. In fact, America's first gold rush began in Cabarrus County in 1799—before California's!

🛠️ Can You Visit? Absolutely! Here Are a Few Top Spots:

Emerald Hollow Mine – Hiddenite, NC

• The only emerald mine in the U.S. open to the public.

• Offers sluicing, creeking, and digging—yes, you keep what you find!

• https://www.emeraldhollowmine.com

Gem Mountain – Spruce Pine, NC

• Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

• Sluice for gems or take a guided mine tour.

• https://www.gemmountain.com

Sheffield Mine – Franklin, NC

• Known for native sapphires and rubies.

• Offers an authentic, muddy experience—great for kids and rockhounds.

• https://www.sheffieldmine.com

🧺 Insider Tip: Wear old clothes, bring sunscreen and bug spray, and pack a picnic—many of these places are nestled in the scenic NC mountains, making for a full day of outdoor fun.

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

What’s the Best Light Bulb to Use When Listing Your Home?

While preparing to list a home recently, I found myself walking through each room and noticing how different the lighting felt in each space. Some rooms had warm, cozy light, while others felt harsh and overly bright, or worse, dim and shadowy. The culprit? Mismatched light bulbs. It made me pause: do most people know which light bulbs actually show their home in the best light? When you’re getting ready to sell, the right lighting can make your home feel more spacious, welcoming, and well cared for, three things every buyer is looking for.

So, which ones do you choose? If you're like me you can get overwhelmed standing in front of hundreds of options at Lowes.  But I did the research so you don't have to.  For a soft, flattering glow throughout most living spaces, LED bulbs with a color temperature of 2700K–3000K (soft white) are your best bet. These work great in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. In areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where brighter task lighting is helpful, 3500K-4100K (bright white) offers a clean, crisp light without being too cool or blue. As for wattage, stick to 40W–60W equivalent bulbs (450-800 lumens) for table and floor lamps, enough to brighten a space without glare. For overhead lighting, aim for 60W-100W equivalent bulbs (800–1600 lumens) depending on the size of the room and fixture. Choosing consistent bulbs throughout your home not only looks better in person, but photographs better too. It’s a small, affordable update that can help your home stand out, in all the right ways.

Here is a quick and easy Light Bulb Swap Checklist: 

💡 Light Bulb Swap Checklist for a Brighter Listing 💡

✔️ Choose LED bulbs – Energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in all brightness levels.
✔️ Stick to soft white (2700K–3000K) for bedrooms, living areas, and hallways.
✔️ Use bright white (3500K–4100K) in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms for clean, clear light.
✔️ For lamps – Use 40W–60W equivalent bulbs (about 450–800 lumens).
✔️ For overhead lighting – Use 60W–100W equivalent bulbs (800–1600 lumens), depending on room size.
✔️ Match the bulb color temperature throughout each room for a cohesive and polished look.
✔️ Replace any flickering, dim, or slow-to-warm-up bulbs—buyers will notice!
✔️ Avoid cool/daylight (5000K+) bulbs unless you're in a garage or utility space.

✨Bonus Tip: Bring in a floor lamp to brighten dark corners, it makes the room feel bigger and more inviting.

Written by Marie Logue

Celebrate the Arts at Artsplosure Festival in Raleigh! 🎨

Mark your calendars for May 17–18, 2025, as the Artsplosure – The Raleigh Arts Festival returns to downtown Raleigh for an unforgettable celebration of creativity and culture. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Fayetteville Street will transform into a vibrant outdoor art market, featuring over 180 talented artists showcasing their work in various mediums.

This free, family-friendly event offers much more than just art displays—enjoy live music performances, interactive art installations, and hands-on activities for all ages. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun way to spend the weekend, Artsplosure offers something for everyone.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with local artists and immerse yourself in the artistic energy of Raleigh’s thriving cultural scene. Grab your friends and family, and come experience the best of the Triangle’s creative community!

🧠 Teen Develops AI App for Heart Disease Detection

In a remarkable display of innovation, a 14-year-old from Dallas has created an AI-powered app that can detect heart disease in just seven seconds using a smartphone’s microphone. This groundbreaking technology works by analyzing the user’s breathing patterns, identifying irregularities that could indicate heart issues.

This incredible feat highlights the potential of youth-driven advancements in healthcare, showing how young minds can make a powerful impact on critical challenges. The app has already garnered attention for its ability to provide quick, accessible screenings for conditions that typically require expensive medical equipment or professional intervention.

With the app’s promise to increase early detection and improve heart disease prevention, it could make a significant difference, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare.

This young innovator’s work is a testament to the power of creativity and technology, inspiring the next generation of health tech leaders and problem-solvers. It’s a thrilling glimpse into the future of affordable and efficient healthcare solutions powered by AI.

Stay tuned as this teen’s app continues to develop, potentially transforming how we approach heart health worldwide. 🌍💡

Wake County Health Systems Expanding

to Meet Growing Demand

As Wake County continues to experience rapid growth, major healthcare providers are stepping up to ensure residents have access to the services they need. UNC Health, Duke Health, WakeMed, and Novant Health are all planning significant expansions in the region to meet the increasing demand for medical care.

Among the exciting proposals are new hospitals in areas like Wake Forest, Garner, and Knightdale—communities that have seen substantial growth in recent years. Additionally, existing facilities are undergoing expansions to accommodate more patients and offer a wider range of services.

These efforts are part of a broader initiative to improve healthcare access, reduce wait times, and better serve Wake County’s diverse population. By expanding their reach, these health systems are helping to ensure that residents can access quality care closer to home, making it easier for families to get the treatment they need when they need it most.

As the area continues to grow, these developments signal a bright future for healthcare in Wake County, and a commitment to meeting the needs of an ever-expanding community.

Nourishing Wake—Fresh Food to Families in Need 🥦

To address food insecurity and improve health outcomes, Wake County has launched the Nourishing Wake program, which provides free, fresh food to families facing health challenges. This innovative initiative combines access to nutritious food with healthcare support, ensuring that residents have the resources they need to live a healthier lifestyle.

Nourishing Wake goes beyond just providing meals. It delivers fresh produce, dairy, and other healthy food directly to families, especially those who may face difficulties accessing healthy options due to financial, geographical, or health-related barriers. The program is designed to help families dealing with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues that benefit from a nutritious diet.

How to Qualify:

To qualify for Nourishing Wake, families must be experiencing health-related challenges and demonstrate a need for food assistance. Priority is given to those facing chronic health conditions, financial hardship, or limited access to fresh food in their neighborhoods.

How to Get Involved:

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, you can reach out to Wake County Human Services at wakegov.com or by calling the Wake County Food Assistance Helpline at 919-212-7000. They can provide more information on how to apply, eligibility criteria, and the specific services offered.

Through Nourishing Wake, Wake County is helping to improve food access and health equity, creating a healthier, more connected community. With its emphasis on fresh food and integrated healthcare, this program is a vital resource for families looking to take charge of their health and well-being. 🌱💚

Wake County Teacher Arrested for

Alleged Assault on Students with Disabilities

Wendell, NC – A special education teacher with the Wake County Public School System was arrested Tuesday, accused of assaulting students with disabilities, according to a warrant.

The teacher has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is underway. School officials say they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and remain committed to protecting students’ safety.

Further details have not been released as the case is still developing.

Man Critically Injured in Raleigh Shooting

RALEIGH, N.C. — A man was critically injured Tuesday night in a shooting near North Raleigh Boulevard and New Bern Avenue, police said.

Officers arrived around 8:30 p.m. and found the victim with a gunshot wound. He was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

No arrests have been made as the investigation continues. Anyone with information is urged to contact Raleigh CrimeStoppers at (919) 834-HELP.

Wake County Schools May End

Take-Home Chromebook Program

The Wake County Public School System is considering a major shift in its technology policy—ending the practice of providing every student with a take-home Chromebook.

Originally introduced to ensure equal access to digital learning, the program is now under review due to budget limitations and increasing concerns about student misuse. Reports have surfaced of students deliberately damaging devices, even triggering dangerous incidents where Chromebooks begin to smoke.

In response, school leaders are exploring new options, such as limiting Chromebook use to classroom hours or offering shared devices on campus. These changes aim to protect student safety and reduce replacement costs while still supporting digital learning.

The school board will discuss the proposals in the coming weeks. Families are encouraged to stay informed and share their input as the district navigates this important decision.

📅 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.

📅 Coming Up This Weekend

🎨 Artsplosure – The Raleigh Arts Festival

📅 May 17–18, 2025
⏰ Saturday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
💲 Free to attend
📍 Fayetteville Street, Downtown Raleigh
✨ Over 180 artists, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of art and culture!

🎶 Got to Be NC Festival

📅 May 16–18, 2025
⏰ Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
💲 Free admission; costs for rides and activities
📍 North Carolina State Fairgrounds, Raleigh
🚜 Celebrate North Carolina’s agricultural roots with carnival rides, food vendors, live music, and more!

🏃 NAMIWalks 2025

📅 May 17, 2025
⏰ 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
💲 Free to participate
📍 Perimeter Park, Morrisville, NC
💚 Walk to raise awareness for mental health and join a supportive community on this meaningful day.

🎉 Morrisville SpringFest

📅 May 17, 2025
⏰ 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
💲 Free to attend
📍 Indian Creek Park, Morrisville, NC
🌸 A family-friendly event featuring live music, crafts, and the Western Wake Farmers Market!

🏁 Window World 250 – NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

📅 May 17, 2025
⏰ Various times throughout the day
💲 Ticket prices vary
📍 North Wilkesboro Speedway, North Wilkesboro, NC
🏎️ Experience the thrill of NASCAR short-track racing with practice, qualifying, and the main race!

Sometimes, email servers can cut off parts of the newsletter, making it tricky to enjoy the full experience. For the best reading experience and to catch all the details, click here to view the entire newsletter!

👇👇👇

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.

🍔 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!

……………………….👇👇👇………………..……

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.
 

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

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!

• Hero or Section Banners

• Local Business Spotlights

• Event Spotlights

• Expert Tips

• Business Directory

• Website Banners

• Independant Mailers

• And more!

  👇👇👇

  👉 Get Information 👈