📫 Watch For Local Scams | Recalls | Oak Island | In Full Bloom | Tax Free Weekend | Post Office Closed | Big Savings | Watch For The 🌶️

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Hello friends!

We just want to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to each of you who has shared our newsletter with your friends, neighbors, and community groups. Your kind referrals mean the world to us — it’s because of you that we continue to grow and connect with more amazing people across Wake County.

We’re also excited to invite you to help us with something delicious — literally! 🍽️
We’re looking to feature local restaurants right here in our newsletter — and we’d love your help. Do you have a favorite spot in Wake County? Maybe it’s a cozy diner, a family-run hidden gem, or a go-to for date night or Sunday brunch. Whatever you love, we want to hear about it!

Tell us the name of your favorite restaurant, and we’ll feature it — completely free — in an upcoming issue. It’s our way of giving back to the local dining scene and helping our community discover new favorites.

You can reply directly to this newsletter or send us a quick message with your restaurant pick. And of course, if you know someone who’d love our newsletter, send them our way!

Thanks again for your continued support — we couldn’t do this without you! 💛

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

📍 Be sure to check the “Amazon Coupons” daily. It changes every day!! 📍

🧨Check Out Our New 55 Plus Section!🧨

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

🎉 From Fashion to Gadgets – The Deals Are Always Changing! 🎉
Every day brings new savings, and we’re here to hook you up! Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, Christmas, a last-minute gift, or just treating yourself (because why not?), we’ve got your back with fresh coupons and awesome deals — all through our link!

We hustle daily so you can save big for you and your family.
✨ Click. Shop. Save. Repeat. ✨

Let’s make shopping more fun and more affordable — together!

🕒 Deals change daily,

Please note that for some deals you mayneed to be an Amazon member.

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the ice cream truck break down?
Because of the rocky road! 🍦😄

📍 North Carolina Triva 📍

🍦 Did you know?
North Carolina is home to one of the oldest ice cream parlors in America!
The Parlour, located in Durham, NC, began as an ice cream truck and quickly gained a loyal following for its handmade, small-batch ice cream using local dairy. It's now one of the most beloved ice cream spots in the state — and regularly features Southern flavors like Sweet Potato Pie and Bourbon Butter Pecan.

🍦 Celebrate National Ice Cream Day — July 20, 2025!

Get ready for a sweet day of freebies and fun in Wake County to celebrate National Ice Cream Day! Here’s where to go for tasty treats and great deals:

🎉 Free Community Events

• Forest Ridge Park Ice Cream Social
  📍 2100 Old NC Hwy 98, Wake Forest, NC
  ⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  Enjoy free ice cream and family-friendly activities in a beautiful park setting.

• Fuquay-Varina Ice Cream Social
  📍 602 E Academy St, Fuquay-Varina, NC (Fuquay Mineral Spring Park)
  ⏰ 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  Free ice cream, iced tea, lemonade, plus live music and good vibes!

🍨 Local Ice Cream Shops Specials

• Two Roosters Ice Cream
  📍 133 N White St, Wake Forest, NC (Wake Forest location)
  ⏰ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  Free tie-dyeing activities plus seasonal ice cream flavors to enjoy.

• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
  📍 4100 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC (North Hills location)
  ⏰ All day on July 20
  Get a free scoop of Sundae Fudge Sauce with any purchase.

🍧 National Chain Deals

• Dippin’ Dots — Online only, use code NICD25 for 25% off

• Burger King — Free soft serve cup or cone with any $1 purchase via app/website

• Baskin-Robbins — $5 off $20+ orders via third-party delivery July 20–26

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A Must Visit Location

Nestled on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, Oak Island is a tranquil beach town in Brunswick County, just south of Wilmington and near Southport. This charming barrier island stretches over 12 miles of soft sand and rolling surf — offering visitors a peaceful, family-friendly alternative to some of the busier East Coast beaches.

Oak Island is perfect for all kinds of getaways, whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a multigenerational vacation, or a solo escape. It’s known for its relaxed pace, uncrowded beaches, and the kind of small-town hospitality that makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

🌊 What to Do on Oak Island

Start your adventure with a visit to the Oak Island Lighthouse, built in 1958 and standing proudly over the coast. Visitors can climb to the top with a reservation for sweeping views of the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway.

The Oak Island Pier is a favorite for fishing, strolling, and even grabbing a bite from the on-site restaurant. Water lovers can also book kayaking or paddleboarding tours through the area’s salt marshes, or explore the wildlife-rich shoreline near The Point, where the island meets the Intracoastal.

Families enjoy Middleton Park for its picnic areas, playgrounds, and summer concert series, while nature lovers find peaceful moments at the Oak Island Nature Center, which offers shaded walking trails and educational exhibits.

🍽️ Where to Eat

You’ll find plenty of great dining options on Oak Island, from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to burgers, tacos, and sweet treats.

• Island Way – A favorite for upscale beachside dining with ocean views. Try the crab cakes or filet mignon.

• Shagger Jacks – A casual, colorful spot with creative tacos, shrimp baskets, and craft beer.

• Tranquil Harbour – A local go-to for hearty breakfasts, seafood platters, and live music in the evenings.

Don’t forget to stop by a local ice cream shop or grab a fresh-squeezed lemonade at the island’s seasonal markets.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Oak Island offers a variety of accommodations to suit every travel style:

• Beach House Rentals – Whether it’s a cozy cottage for two or a large home for the whole crew, rental homes line the beachfront and offer incredible sunrises.

• Captain’s Cove Motel – Budget-friendly and just steps from the beach, this no-frills motel is perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip.

• The Blue Water Point Motel – Located near the marina, ideal for boaters and those seeking a quiet stay near fishing charters.

For those who prefer more amenities, consider staying in nearby Southport, just across the bridge, which offers charming B&Bs and boutique inns.

🐚 Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Book early for summer stays — Oak Island is a favorite for families, and rentals fill up quickly.

• Bring your bikes — The island is flat and easy to explore on two wheels.

• Visit the Point at sunset — It’s one of the most beautiful, peaceful places on the island.

• Check for town events — The Oak Island summer concert series, farmers markets, and 4th of July fireworks are all local favorites.

• Don’t over-plan — The magic of Oak Island is in slowing down, savoring the salty air, and letting the day unfold.

Whether you're returning for your tenth summer or visiting for the first time, Oak Island offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, Southern charm, and laid-back beach living. Come for the views, stay for the vibe — and leave with sand between your toes and a heart full of memories.

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Estes Drive Post Office Closed After Flooding

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Flash flooding forced the closure of the Estes Drive Post Office. The building is currently inaccessible, and mail services have been redirected.

Where to Get Your Mail:

• P.O. Box holders: Pick up your mail at Timberlyne Post Office, 1129 Weaver Dairy Road. Bring a photo ID.

• Street delivery: Handled by Carrboro Post Office, 1500 W. Main Street. Delivery schedules remain unchanged.

• Package drop-offs: Use Carrboro's hours: Mon–Fri 5–7 a.m. & 9–3:30 p.m., Sat 9–12 p.m.

Some mail inside the building was damaged. USPS is working on recovery and has not announced when Estes Drive will reopen. Read More

Tax-Free Weekend? Here's Where to Shop Near the Triangle

While North Carolina no longer has a tax-free weekend, nearby states like South Carolina (Aug 2–4) still do. That means savvy Triangle shoppers can still save—just with a little planning.

🚗 Worth the Drive:

📍 Tanger Outlets – Mebane, NC
Close to the SC border and full of back-to-school deals on clothing, shoes, and accessories.

📍 Carolina Premium Outlets – Smithfield, NC
Right off I-95, this outlet mall is ideal for back-to-school shopping.

📍 Gaffney Outlet Marketplace – Gaffney, SC
During South Carolina’s tax-free weekend (Aug 2–4), shoppers can skip the sales tax on clothing, shoes, school supplies, and even computers.

🏬 Stay Local (No Tax Break, Still Great Deals):

• Crabtree Valley Mall (Raleigh)

• The Streets at Southpoint (Durham)

• Triangle Town Center (Raleigh)

• University Place (Chapel Hill)

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Dix Sunflowers are in Full Bloom

Dix Park’s beloved sunflower field is in peak bloom now through late July, offering one of Raleigh’s most beautiful summer sights. The 5-acre field is bursting with thousands of bright yellow blooms, making it a perfect stop for photos, a peaceful walk, or a family outing. The sunflowers are open daily from dawn to dusk, and the best times to visit are early morning or late evening when the light is softer and crowds are lighter.

Parking is easy and free. During weekdays from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors should use Public Parking Lot A, located off Hunt Drive. On evenings and weekends, all park lots are open. The best entrances are from Western Boulevard via Hunt Drive or from Centennial Parkway via Blair Drive.

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water, as the paths can be uneven and sunny. Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed, and portable restrooms are available nearby. Guests are asked to stay on marked paths and not to pick the flowers so everyone can enjoy the display. For updates or maps, visit dixpark.org/sunflowers.

Scam Alert

A Wake County woman recently became the victim of a check washing scam. She wrote a check for $85, but thieves stole it, altered the amount to $4,000, and then deposited the fraudulent check using a mobile banking app. The incident occurred earlier this month in the Raleigh area and has raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of check fraud in Wake County. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions, such as securely handling checks and monitoring bank accounts closely. Read More

Lost Pet Scam

Wake County authorities have alerted the community about a scam targeting owners of lost pets. Scammers contact pet owners, claiming to have found their lost animal, and request payment for its return. Residents are urged to verify the identity of anyone claiming to have found their pet before making any payments. Read More

YoCrunch Yogurt – Plastic Contamination

Danone U.S. has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of all YoCrunch yogurt products due to possible plastic contamination in the dome toppers, which include mix-ins like M&M’s, Oreo, and Snickers. Small, sharp plastic pieces were found in the candy, cookie, and granola toppings, creating a choking risk. This recall covers all YoCrunch flavors and sizes with expiration dates between July 7 and September 4, 2025. These items were sold at major stores such as Walmart, Target, and Dollar General. Consumers should avoid eating these products and can call the YoCrunch Consumer Care Line at 1-877-344-4886 for refund details. Read More

Six Wake County High Schools to Lose Title I Funding

Wake County Public Schools is tightening its eligibility requirements for Title I funding, which supports programs for students from low-income families. Under the revised guidelines, the threshold for receiving funds has increased from 49% to 75% low-income enrollment. As a result, six high schools—East Wake, Knightdale, South Garner, Southeast Raleigh, Phillips, and SCORE Academy—will no longer qualify. The change means a loss of more than $2.6 million in annual support. To help with the transition, the district will offer about $1.6 million in one-time “bridge” funding. Read More

🌟Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Wilmington Steps Up for Hurricane Victims

In a beautiful act of compassion and teamwork, the community of Wilmington, North Carolina recently came together to support families in the western part of the state who were impacted by Hurricane Helene. The storm left many residents with damaged homes and no essential appliances, but their neighbors across the state weren’t about to let them go without.

Enter Priceless Mission, a local outreach group led by Travis Price. When Travis heard about a family in desperate need, he got to work. Reaching out to Porter’s Neck Village, a retirement community in Wilmington, he discovered they had gently used appliances and furniture recently replaced during renovations. Instead of discarding them, the residents and staff offered them up—free of charge—for families trying to rebuild.

In just a few days, a team of volunteers filled a large truck with washers, dryers, sofas, and household items. With the help of local groups and churches, the donations made their way to the mountains—delivering not just furniture, but hope and relief to families facing a long road to recovery.

As Travis’s father, who helped load the truck, said:
"It’s such a big blessing to do that for someone. When we give with our hearts, we change lives."

🌟 A Reminder That Goodness Is Everywhere

This story is a powerful example of how acts of kindness don’t need to be complicated—they just need willing hearts. By working together and sharing what they had, these Wilmington neighbors brought comfort to others during a very difficult time.

Let this be a reminder: when we open our hands, we open doors. When we lift others, we all rise.

"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

💬 Staying Social, Staying Sharp: The Power of Connection for Adults 55+

As we age, the importance of staying socially active becomes increasingly clear—not just for our happiness, but for our mental sharpness, emotional health, and even longevity. For adults aged 55 and older, social connection isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a key ingredient in maintaining a high quality of life.

📊 The Research Is Clear

• According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), older adults who maintain strong social ties have a 70% lower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who are isolated.

• A 2023 AARP survey found that 35% of adults 50+ experience loneliness regularly, which is linked to a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.

• The CDC reports that social isolation is associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia.

These statistics underscore one powerful message: social interaction directly supports brain health and overall well-being.

Engaging with others stimulates the brain, encouraging conversation, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Social activities often involve movement, laughter, and learning—three things that fuel healthy brain function.

When seniors are part of a community, they’re more likely to:

• Maintain sharper memory and focus

• Feel a stronger sense of purpose

• Experience reduced anxiety and depression

• Recover more quickly from illness or surgery

Modern seniors are not just staying social—they’re redefining how. From tech-savvy virtual meetups to vibrant community activities, older adults are more engaged than ever.

Popular ways seniors are staying connected:

• Volunteerism: 1 in 3 seniors over 55 volunteers, creating social bonds and boosting morale.

• Senior centers & YMCAs: Offer game nights, dances, fitness classes, and hobby groups.

• Faith-based groups: Continue to be a cornerstone for spiritual and social engagement.

• Technology: More than 75% of adults 50+ now use smartphones, enabling FaceTime, Zoom, and social media as connection tools.

💡 Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Social Life at Any Age

• Join a group: Book club, gardening circle, walking club, or art class

• Take a class: Community colleges and libraries often offer free or low-cost programs

• Stay in touch: Set weekly phone or video calls with friends or family

• Volunteer your time: Helping others builds relationships and a sense of purpose

• Say yes more often: Accept invitations—even if it’s just coffee or a walk

Staying socially engaged after 55 isn’t just good for the soul—it’s critical for the brain and the body. The friendships, laughter, and shared experiences that come from being socially active help keep minds sharp, spirits lifted, and life deeply fulfilling.

In a world where aging is often seen as slowing down, staying social is a powerful way to keep moving forward.

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🎉 Fun Events & Activities in Wake County — July 17, 2025

It’s Thursday and you are thinking “WEEKEND.” This weekend in Wake County (July 19–20, 2025), the big event is the Swift Creek 160 at Wake County Speedway. The NASCAR-sanctioned race kicks off Friday, July 18, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, promising an exciting night of short-track racing for fans and families alike.

For a more relaxed outing, Family Movie Night at E. Carroll Joyner Park in Wake Forest takes place Saturday, July 19, at 7:30 PM, featuring Mufasa: The Lion King. This free event is perfect for enjoying a movie under the stars.

Also happening Saturday is the Raleigh Market at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can browse a variety of vendors and discover unique local goods.

What to do today, July 17th

👶 For Kids & Families

• Family Storytime
  Enjoy an engaging storytelling session designed especially for young children.
  📍 North Regional Library
  ⏰ 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM

• K–5th Adventures: Color Our World
  A creative arts and crafts program for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade.
  📍 Wake County Government Center
  ⏰ 4:30 PM – 5:15 PM

🎤 For Singles & Adults

• VIP Upgrade at Bowstring Brewyard
  Treat yourself to a VIP experience featuring live music and special offerings at this popular local spot.
  📍 Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard
  ⏰ 4:40 PM – 5:40 PM

• Harmonic Chaos Art Exhibition
  Explore stunning contemporary artwork by Martha Thorn and Tonya Thornton.
  📍 Block Gallery
  ⏰ 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

👵 For Seniors

• Family Trivia Night
  Join a fun, engaging trivia night suitable for all ages at the Apex Senior Center.
  📍 Apex Senior Center
  ⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

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

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!

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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]