📨Mother & Four Children Killed | Important Changes To WN&E | Tractor-Trailer Flips After Driver Falls Asleep | Duke Falls to Houston | Car Jacking📍

To My Valued Readers Across Wake County,

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and that the Wake News & Events newsletter helped you make the most of your time with family and friends.

Last week, I shared that we’d be making several changes to the newsletter, and as of Friday, you may have noticed some of those updates taking effect. We strive to pack a wealth of information into each edition to ensure you have everything you need in your local news and events publication. To enhance both efficiency and accuracy, we’ve introduced clickable pages to the newsletter.

Here’s a quick guide to the new layout:

• Page 2 – Happy Hour Listings

• Page 3 – Kids Eat Free

• Page 4 – Senior Discounts

• Page 5 – Events Listings

Our goal is to provide you with both a quick read and the valuable resources you've requested. Previously, when all this information was embedded directly into the newsletter, some email providers would truncate the content, causing you to miss out on important details. By shifting these sections to clickable URLs, we increase the likelihood that your entire newsletter will be delivered without issue.

To ensure you never miss a thing, I highly recommend you always read the newsletter online.

Thank you for being a loyal reader and for sharing your feedback and suggestions—we truly appreciate you!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

📧 [email protected] 

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

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🤣-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 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 📍

"My dog thinks he's the boss… but we all know who really runs the house

—my cat." 😼🐶

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Did you know?
The first English attempt at settling in North Carolina was the Lost Colony of Roanoke in 1587. Led by John White, over 100 settlers mysteriously vanished without a trace—leaving only the word "Croatoan" carved into a tree. 🕵️‍♂️🌲

To this day, no one knows exactly what happened. It's one of America’s oldest unsolved mysteries!

📍On This Day in History📍

1927 – The first public demonstration of television by Bell Telephone Laboratories and the Department of Commerce took place in Washington, D.C. 📺

Discover the Treasure of Hiddenite

A Visit to Emerald Hollow Mine

Tucked away in the quaint town of Hiddenite, North Carolina, the Emerald Hollow Mine stands as a one-of-a-kind destination. It’s the only emerald mine in the United States that is open to the public, drawing in thousands of visitors each year eager to unearth a piece of Earth’s hidden beauty. Whether you're a curious traveler, a passionate rockhound, or a family looking for a fun and educational adventure, Emerald Hollow offers a unique experience unlike anywhere else.

The area’s history is as rich as its soil. In the late 1800s, mineralogist William Earl Hidden discovered a rare green gemstone here that was eventually named after him—Hiddenite. This rare gem, along with emeralds and many other minerals, sparked interest in the region and helped establish North Carolina as a gemstone hotspot. Today, Hiddenite remains the only place in the world where the gemstone Hiddenite is naturally found, and the mine continues to be a treasure trove for both amateurs and experts.

Visitors to Emerald Hollow Mine can search for over 60 types of natural gemstones and minerals. Among the most popular are emeralds, hiddenite, amethyst, garnet, aquamarine, sapphire, topaz, tourmaline, and various quartz varieties. You never know what you'll find, which makes every visit a new and exciting adventure.

There are three main ways to hunt for gems at the mine: sluicing, creeking, and digging. Sluicing is a favorite for beginners and families, where you wash dirt through a water-filled screen to uncover gems. Creeking allows visitors to wade through the property’s gentle streams, sifting through the creek bed for hidden treasures. For the more adventurous, digging offers the thrill of mining straight from the earth in designated areas. All tools and equipment can be rented on-site, and staff are available to guide you through the process.

Beyond gem hunting, the Emerald Hollow Mine offers lapidary services so you can have your finds professionally cut, polished, and even turned into custom jewelry. There’s also a charming gift shop filled with mineral specimens, handcrafted jewelry, and fun gem-themed souvenirs. Educational tours are available as well, making the mine a great field trip option for schools, scout troops, and geology enthusiasts.

When planning your visit, it’s a good idea to wear old clothes and sturdy shoes—you’re likely to get a little dirty, especially if you’re digging or creeking. Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray during the warmer months. The mine is open year-round, though hours may vary, so it’s best to check their website or call ahead before making the trip.

Emerald Hollow Mine offers more than just an outing—it offers the chance to connect with nature, history, and maybe even walk away with a valuable gem. It’s a hidden gem in more ways than one, and a must-see attraction for anyone exploring North Carolina.

North Carolina Mother and Four Children Killed

A North Carolina family is mourning a heartbreaking loss after a devastating crash in Georgia claimed the lives of a young mother and her four children early Sunday morning.

According to the Georgia State Patrol, 27-year-old Reagan Dougan of Raleigh and her four children — ages 9, 4, 2, and just 3 months old — were killed in a fiery two-car collision on Interstate 95 near exit 67 in McIntosh County. The crash occurred around 6 a.m. as the family traveled southbound, roughly 35 miles south of Savannah.

Officials report that Dougan’s vehicle collided with another southbound car before bursting into flames. All five members of the Dougan family tragically died at the scene.

Family members confirmed to CBS 17 that Reagan and her children were North Carolina residents and had recently left Raleigh.

The crash remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic accident. The news has shaken both local communities in North Carolina and those in Georgia where the crash occurred.

Support and condolences have begun pouring in for the family, as many express heartbreak over the unimaginable loss of such young lives.

Tractor-Trailer Flips After Driver Falls Asleep

A major traffic disruption occurred early Sunday morning in Wake County when a tractor-trailer overturned after the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, according to North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

The crash happened around 2:30 a.m. along NC-50 near Garner. Troopers say the southbound truck ran off the road and flipped onto its side, blocking the roadway and forcing officials to close the area for several hours.

Crews worked through the morning to clear the wreckage and reopen the road to traffic. The driver’s condition has not been released, and troopers have not announced whether any charges will be filed.

The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of drowsy driving, particularly for those operating large commercial vehicles. The crash remains under investigation.

Duke Falls to Houston in Final Four After Late-Game Collapse

Duke's championship hopes came to a heartbreaking end Saturday night as the Blue Devils fell to Houston in the Final Four, undone by a late-game collapse.

Despite leading for much of the contest, Duke couldn’t hold off a late surge by the Cougars, who capitalized on key turnovers and missed opportunities in the closing minutes to seal the win.

The loss ends Duke’s tournament run just short of the national title game and marks a bitter finish to an otherwise strong season.

Two Teens Hospitalized After Hit-and-Run in Garner

Two young teenagers were taken to the hospital Saturday night after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident in Garner, police said.

The teens were walking along Vandora Springs Road when they were hit by a car that immediately fled the scene. Emergency crews responded quickly, and both victims were transported to a nearby hospital. Their current conditions have not been released.

Garner police are actively investigating and are asking anyone with information about the driver or vehicle involved to come forward.

Man Charged with Voluntary Manslaughter

After Deadly Custody Dispute in Apex

A child custody exchange turned deadly Friday night in Apex when a man struck and killed a woman with his vehicle, police said.

According to Apex police, the incident happened around 10 p.m. on Apache Lane during a custody handoff. A dispute broke out between Bradford Brown — the child's father — and the child's maternal grandparents. During the confrontation, Brown allegedly used his vehicle to strike the child’s grandmother, resulting in her death.

Brown fled the scene but was apprehended shortly after. He is now facing a charge of voluntary manslaughter, and investigators say additional charges may be filed.

Authorities also report that another person who was in Brown’s vehicle ran from the scene on foot and has yet to be identified. Police are asking the public for help in locating that individual.

The Apex Police Department extended condolences to the victim’s family and said they are committed to a full and thorough investigation.

UNC Student Carjacked at Gunpoint in Downtown Chapel Hill

A UNC-Chapel Hill student was carjacked at gunpoint early Saturday morning in downtown Chapel Hill, prompting an active investigation by local authorities.

The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. in the Carolina Square Parking Deck near the intersection of Franklin and Columbia streets. According to Chapel Hill Police, an unidentified man approached the student, displayed a firearm, and demanded the vehicle.

The suspect fled the scene in the student’s gray 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, which was later recovered in Durham. Fortunately, the student was not injured during the encounter.

Police say there is no ongoing threat to the community and are working to identify and locate the suspect. This incident comes just days after a similar carjacking in nearby Carrboro, though investigators have not confirmed a connection.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Chapel Hill Police Department at 919-968-2760 or leave an anonymous tip through Chapel Hill-Carrboro-UNC Crimestoppers at 919-942-7515.

Jaguar Bolera

A New Entertainment Hotspot in Raleigh Iron Works

Jaguar Bolera, a vibrant new entertainment venue, has brought a fresh and exciting option to Raleigh’s nightlife scene. Located in the Raleigh Iron Works development, Jaguar Bolera opened its doors on May 19, 2024, offering an engaging mix of dining, fun, and games for all ages.

Address:
2221 Iron Works Dr., Suite 90, Raleigh, NC 27604

The venue features a variety of entertainment options, including duckpin bowling, shuffleboard, darts, and private karaoke rooms, making it an ideal spot for both casual outings and special events. Guests can also enjoy hands-on experiences like DIY crafting, including activities such as macrame and needlepoint.

At the heart of Jaguar Bolera’s experience is its vibrant dining scene. Curated by chef Manny Barella, known for his appearance on Bravo’s "Top Chef," the menu offers a fusion of Mexican and Southern flavors. Popular dishes include brisket tacos, lamb birria taquitos, and cochinita pibil tacos, all complemented by a diverse selection of specialty cocktails, local craft beers, and wines. For a unique experience, the self-pour system lets guests serve themselves from a wall of taps, adding an interactive twist to the dining experience.

Jaguar Bolera’s combination of fun activities, delicious food, and lively atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in Raleigh.

New Opening - Little Rey

Chef Ford Fry's Tex-Mex Concept Expands to Raleigh Iron Works

Little Rey, the popular Tex-Mex eatery founded by chef Ford Fry, has expanded its footprint to Raleigh, bringing a taste of Northern Mexico’s wood-roasted cooking to the vibrant Raleigh Iron Works development. The new location, which opened in December 2024, offers a fresh dining experience that highlights the flavors of "al-carbon" wood-roasted dishes in a casual and lively atmosphere.

Address:
1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27604

The menu at Little Rey features a variety of classic Tex-Mex options, including the standout Pollo al Carbón, which features wood-roasted chicken seasoned with traditional spices. The restaurant’s street tacos, made with handmade tortillas and a range of fillings, are also a fan favorite.

On weekends, the restaurant serves a breakfast menu, offering dishes like migas breakfast tacos and buttermilk pancakes with special syrup. With both indoor seating and a spacious outdoor patio, Little Rey also offers a walk-up window for convenient to-go orders.

Little Rey at Raleigh Iron Works is the perfect spot for anyone craving flavorful, authentic Tex-Mex in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Whether you're in the mood for a quick taco or a full meal, the vibrant new location is quickly becoming a go-to spot in Raleigh’s dining scene.

Opening-Teriyaki Madness Restaurante

A Flavorful Dining Experience in Wake Forest

Teriyaki Madness Restaurante, which opened its doors in March 2025, has quickly become a popular dining spot in Wake Forest. Located at 12610 Capital Blvd., Suite 100, this vibrant restaurant offers a variety of delicious teriyaki dishes, perfect for anyone craving flavorful, satisfying meals.

Address:
12610 Capital Blvd., Suite 100
Wake Forest, NC 27587

A Story of Community Progress

In the heart of Wake County, North Carolina, exciting changes are unfolding that promise to make the community even better. From thriving businesses to smart city innovations, the county is seeing a wave of positive developments that are shaping its future.

One of the most significant updates is Amgen’s $1 billion expansion in Holly Springs. This investment is set to create 370 new jobs, further establishing Wake County as a leader in biotechnology. As more companies like Amgen choose to invest in the area, the local economy continues to grow, providing opportunities for residents.

In addition to economic growth, Wake County’s residents are enjoying a high quality of life. The Triangle area, encompassing Wake County, continues to be ranked among the healthiest regions in North Carolina. With strong healthcare, wellness initiatives, and outdoor spaces, the community is thriving in both mind and body.

Transportation improvements are also taking shape. A new Amtrak station in Wake Forest is on the way, providing better connectivity for residents and visitors alike. This development will not only improve travel but also contribute to the local economy as more people are drawn to the area.

Cary, another part of Wake County, is leading the way with smart city technologies. The town has implemented adaptive street lighting, smart parking sensors, and flood alert systems, all aimed at improving residents’ daily lives and making the community more sustainable. It’s a glimpse into the future of urban living, and Cary is already on the cutting edge.

Perhaps most heartwarming is the “Bridge to Home” program, which provides support for individuals experiencing homelessness. The program aims to help people transition to permanent housing, offering vital services and support to those in need.

These developments tell the story of a county that is not only growing but growing with purpose. Wake County’s commitment to economic development, health, transportation, and community support is ensuring that it remains a wonderful place to live and work for all.

Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Nature’s Mosquito Shield

Lemon eucalyptus essential oil, derived from the leaves of the Eucalyptus citriodora tree, is emerging as a natural powerhouse for repelling mosquitoes. Known for its fresh, citrusy scent, this oil isn’t just a pleasant aroma—it’s a scientifically backed alternative to synthetic repellents. The key to its effectiveness lies in a compound called PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol), which mosquitoes find highly unappealing. Research, including recommendations from the CDC, highlights that oil of lemon eucalyptus can offer protection comparable to low concentrations of DEET, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a plant-based solution.

Native to Australia, the lemon eucalyptus tree has long been valued for its medicinal properties. Today, its essential oil is distilled through steam, capturing PMD and other volatile compounds that give it both repellent and skin-soothing qualities. Beyond mosquito defense, it’s praised for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, making it a versatile addition to any natural wellness kit.

To use it, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil like coconut or mix with water in a spray bottle—undiluted essential oils can irritate skin. Apply it to exposed areas before heading outdoors, and reapply every few hours for continuous protection. While it’s generally safe, a patch test is wise to rule out sensitivity.

Lemon eucalyptus essential oil shines as a sustainable, effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just enjoying a summer evening, this botanical gem offers a refreshing, chemical-free shield against nature’s peskiest intruders.

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

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

This week’s restaurant in the Spotlight is:

Hartura Restaurant on Capital Boulevard

Nestled at 12239 Capital Blvd in Wake Forest, North Carolina, Hartura Restaurant is quickly earning a reputation as a must-visit dining spot for locals and travelers alike. This cozy eatery blends Southern hospitality with a creative menu, offering a fresh take on comfort food that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Hartura opened its doors with a mission to serve hearty, flavorful dishes made from scratch, emphasizing quality ingredients and bold flavors. The restaurant’s ambiance strikes a balance between rustic charm and modern simplicity—think warm lighting, wooden accents, and a welcoming vibe that makes it ideal for family dinners, casual date nights, or a quick lunch stop. Its location along the bustling Capital Boulevard makes it a convenient oasis for those navigating the Wake Forest-Raleigh corridor.

While nothing ever beats your mom’s biscuits and gravy for breakfast, in a recent survey we held, Hartura’s recieved recommendates from their customers as a must try.

The menu at Hartura is a love letter to Southern cuisine with a twist. Signature dishes include their melt-in-your-mouth brisket, smoked low and slow, paired with house-made sauces that range from tangy to sweet. The fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy within, is another crowd-pleaser, often served with sides like creamy mac ‘n’ cheese or collard greens kissed with a hint of spice. For lighter fare, fresh salads and seasonal specials showcase local produce. Don’t skip dessert—their peach cobbler, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, is a sweet finale that embodies Southern tradition.

What sets Hartura apart is its commitment to community. The staff exude genuine warmth, and the restaurant often hosts events like live music nights or pop-up specials, fostering a sense of connection among diners. It’s not uncommon to see regulars chatting with newcomers, sharing recommendations over a plate of cornbread.

Whether you’re a Wake Forest local or just passing through, Hartura Restaurant at 12239 Capital Blvd offers a dining experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Open for lunch and dinner, it’s a spot where good food and good company come together effortlessly. Next time you’re on Capital Boulevard, pull in—you won’t be disappointed.

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

Upcoming Yard, Garage, & Estate Sales for April 11th & 12th to be posted on Fridays.

📍Knightdale, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon 📍

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📍 Raleigh, Apex, Cary, & Morrisville Area 📍

If you have a garage, yard, or estate sale in Wake County that you would like to list, contact us at [email protected] with all the details. We will be happy to include your sale. All information must be received by Wednesday 12:00 PM to be listed in the Friday ads.

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