📫 North Carolina Stands Strong | Lifelong Learning Opportunities | Boo Bash📍

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Hello friends!

Today, October 16, is World Food Day — a day dedicated to raising awareness about hunger, promoting sustainable food, and celebrating the joy of sharing meals with family, friends, and our communities. 🌱🍲

It’s a great reminder to think about where our food comes from, enjoy every bite, and maybe even lend a hand to those in need. Whether it’s cooking a favorite recipe, trying something new, or supporting local farmers and food banks, there’s something we can all do to make a difference.

Thanks for joining us! Here’s to nourishing both our bodies and our hearts today. 💛

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the hipster burn his mouth on his pizza?
Because he ate it before it was cool! 🍕😄

📍 Trivia 📍

North Carolina's farmers cultivate over 8 million acres of farmland, producing a diverse array of crops and livestock. This robust agricultural output supports a thriving economy, with agriculture contributing approximately 16% to the state's GDP and employing about 17% of North Carolina's workforce.

🦅🌾 Fall Wildlife Watching & Hikes on the North Carolina Coast

As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscape, the North Carolina coast becomes a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Fall is the prime time for birdwatching, with migratory species passing through, and the cooler temperatures make hiking and kayaking more enjoyable. Here are three must-visit spots to immerse yourself in the coastal wilderness this fall:

🦢 Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge – Hatteras Island

Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November

Highlights:

• Birdwatching: Witness the spectacle of thousands of migratory birds, including snow geese, tundra swans, and various species of ducks and shorebirds. Raptors like bald eagles and peregrine falcons are also frequently spotted during fall migration.

• Wildlife Trails: Explore the North Pond Wildlife Trail, Salt Flats Wildlife Trail, and the observation tower on the North Pond Wildlife Trail for panoramic views of the refuge's diverse habitats.

• Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of the fall foliage, migrating birds, and the serene coastal landscapes.

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North Carolina Stands Strong for North Carolina Residents

as Economic Clouds Gather Across the U.S.

Twenty-two states across the nation are either in recession or teetering on the edge of one, according to a new analysis by Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, as reported by Axios’ Emily Peck. The findings reveal a growing economic divide — with some regions slowing sharply while others continue to expand.

Despite widespread signs of strain, North Carolina’s economy is bucking the trend. Like several other southern states, it remains in a phase of growth, supported by steady job creation, population gains, and ongoing investments in industries like technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing.

The states showing signs of contraction stretch from Washington on the West Coast to Maine and Virginia in the East — collectively accounting for about one-third of the nation’s overall GDP. Economic slowdowns in these regions could ripple outward, impacting supply chains, housing markets, and consumer confidence nationwide.

North Carolina’s resilience highlights the strength of the broader Southeast, where a favorable business climate, lower cost of living, and continued migration are fueling economic momentum. While challenges such as inflation and housing affordability persist, the Tar Heel State continues to serve as a bright spot in an otherwise uneven national outlook.

As other states brace for downturns, North Carolina’s steady expansion may offer a blueprint for economic stability — one built on diversity, innovation, and adaptability in a changing national landscape. Read More

Lifelong Learning Opportunities

North Carolina residents aged 65 and older now have the opportunity to continue their education through the Senior Auditors (65+) Program, which allows seniors to audit college courses tuition-free.

Eligible participants can sit in on classes at participating colleges and universities across the state without earning academic credit. The program not only waives tuition fees but also waives the standard $40 application fee, making it easier than ever for seniors to explore new subjects or revisit old interests.

This initiative offers a wonderful way for lifelong learners to stay mentally active, engage with younger students, and enjoy the experience of being part of a campus community—all without the financial burden of traditional enrollment.

To qualify, participants must be North Carolina residents and 65 years of age or older.

It’s a perfect opportunity to keep learning, stay connected, and continue growing—no matter your age.

🎃 Halloween Boo Bash – Downtown Wake Forest

Get ready for spooky fun at the Halloween Boo Bash in Downtown Wake Forest on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM! This free, family-friendly event is perfect for children up to age 12. Kids can bounce on inflatables, play carnival-style games, enjoy tasty treats from food trucks, and explore fun sponsor booths.

Trick-or-treating is also part of the festivities with the “Goodies for Goblins” program, where little ghouls and goblins can collect candy from participating downtown businesses. Costumes are encouraged, and some of the best outfits may even be highlighted on the Town of Wake Forest’s website and social media.

Location & Parking: Downtown Wake Forest, with free parking at Wake Forest Center for Active Aging, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Electric, and other public lots.
More info

👻 Cary BOOzilla Night Market – Downtown Cary Park

Cary BOOzilla Night Market is taking over Downtown Cary Park on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM! This free Halloween-themed evening combines the fun of the regular Cary Night Market with spooky thrills.

Attendees can enjoy live music, local vendors, Halloween-themed treats, crafts, and even a costume contest for both kids and pets. It’s a perfect event for families or anyone who loves a festive, slightly spooky night out. Costumes are highly encouraged!

More info

More Than a Cake

In the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, one baker’s compassion has turned something as simple as a birthday cake into a beacon of hope. Manolo Betancur, the Colombian-born owner of Manolo’s Bakery, believes everyone deserves to be celebrated—especially those who’ve been forgotten by society. After coming to the United States with little money and no English, Betancur built his bakery from scratch. But as his business grew, so did his desire to give back. More than a decade ago, he partnered with Raise Up Ministries to bring joy to people experiencing homelessness in the Charlotte area.

Each year, Manolo bakes and personally delivers birthday cakes to homeless neighbors across the city. He keeps their birthdays marked in his own calendar—so no one is forgotten. The cakes are humble sheet cakes, often flavored with caramel or peach, but they carry a powerful message: you matter. For many who receive them, it’s the first time in years someone has remembered their special day.

Manolo’s mission goes beyond sweets—it’s about restoring dignity and connection. He refuses to call the homeless “others”; instead, he calls them “neighbors.” His kindness has rippled far beyond the bakery’s walls. One man who received a birthday cake years ago said it was the spark that reignited his will to live. He turned his life around, got a job, and even married—all inspired by a single act of compassion.

For Manolo, baking these cakes isn’t charity—it’s love in action. “Less complaining, more action,” he often says. Through each cake he delivers, he’s proving that small, thoughtful gestures can change lives—and that kindness, like good cake, is meant to be shared.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
— Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

55 Plus - The New Silver Standard

Where did we get the saying, “I’ll ride shotgun?”

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

What’s Happening Today?

🎡 October 16–26: North Carolina State Fair

• Location: NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

• Highlights: Thrilling rides, live music, animal exhibits, deep-fried treats, and free entertainment.

• Ideal for: Families, couples, and anyone seeking classic fair fun.

• Details: Open daily; check the official website for specific hours and ticket information. NC Agriculture

🎭 October 17–26: "The Waning Hours" – A Play by Pure Life Theatre

• Location: Leggett Theatre, William Peace University, Raleigh

• Showtimes: Fridays at 7:30 PM; Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 PM

• Description: A poignant exploration of memory, family, and love in the face of Alzheimer's disease.

• Ideal for: Adults and seniors interested in thought-provoking theatre.

• Tickets: Available online. United Arts

Be sure to click below to review our “Events Calendar” with over 100 events happening today and this week!

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