📨 Trap At The Outer Banks | Double Shooting | New Mayor | History Tours | Check Out The Just For Fun News 📌

To My Valued Readers Across Wake County,

This week, as we continue our journey to discover the hidden gems of Wake County, we’d love for you to be a part of this exciting adventure! We’re on the hunt to find the absolute best BBQ in the area, and we need your help.

Do you have a favorite spot where the smoky aroma, tender meats, and savory sauces always hit the mark? A place that makes every BBQ lover feel right at home? We want to hear about it!

Please take a moment to share your top BBQ recommendations with us. Simply email us your favorite restaurant, and tell us what makes it stand out. Whether it’s the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, the crispy pork, or that perfectly balanced sauce, we want to know what makes these spots the best.

Your input is invaluable to us, and we can’t wait to explore the flavors of Wake County with your help. Thank you for being a part of this delicious adventure!

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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🌶️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♦️

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why don’t pigs do well at basketball? Because they hog the ball! 🐷🏀🤣

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Did you know?
The Neuse River is the longest river entirely contained within North Carolina, stretching approximately 275 miles from the Piedmont region near Durham all the way to the Pamlico Sound on the coast!

📍On This Day in History📍

1912 – The Titanic sank
After hitting an iceberg the night before, the RMS Titanic sank in the early hours of April 15, killing over 1,500 people.

📰 Explore North Carolina

Blowing Rock – A Legendary Escape in the Blue Ridge

📍 Where Legends Leap and the Mountains Whisper

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock is more than a charming mountain town—it's a living legend. With sweeping vistas, whimsical winds, and a story that floats on the breeze, it’s the kind of place where memories are made.

🌬️ A Love Story in the Wind

The town is named after The Blowing Rock, a towering cliff with powerful winds. According to legend, a Cherokee brave leapt from the rock—and the wind lifted him back to his sweetheart’s arms. Romantic, right?

🧭 What to See & Do

🌄 The Blowing Rock Attraction
A must-see! Gaze out over the gorge, stroll garden trails, and feel the rush of wind that gave the town its name.

🛣️ Blue Ridge Parkway
Perfect for a scenic drive or hike. The views are spectacular year-round, especially during fall foliage season.

🛍️ Downtown Blowing Rock
Enjoy boutique shopping, cozy cafés, galleries, and the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM).

🚂 Tweetsie Railroad
A family-friendly Wild West theme park complete with a working steam train and frontier fun.

🌳 Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Explore 25 miles of trails or visit the historic estate overlooking Bass Lake.

📸 [Insert a collage of downtown shops, Tweetsie Railroad, and Cone Manor]

🏨 Where to Stay

• Green Park Inn – A Victorian-era hotel filled with history and charm.

• Meadowbrook Inn – Walking distance from downtown shops and dining.

• Cozy Cabins & B&Bs – Mountain hospitality at its finest.

🍴 Where to Eat

• The Speckled Trout – Farm-to-table with Southern flair.

• Twigs Restaurant & Bar – Fireside dining with an upscale mountain vibe.

• Kilwin’s – Homemade fudge and ice cream to top off your stroll.

✨ Why Visit Blowing Rock?

Because it’s not just a location—it’s a feeling. The breeze. The views. The timeless charm. Whether you come for romance, relaxation, or family fun, Blowing Rock will blow you away.

🧳 Ready to plan your visit?
Blowing Rock is open year-round and waiting to welcome you!

➡️ For more travel inspiration, stay tuned for next week’s spotlight on another hidden gem in North Carolina!

🚫 Beware the “Shark Island” Trap at the Outer Banks

HARKERS ISLAND, NC — It looks like paradise at first glance—a tiny strip of bright white sand, surrounded by clear blue water, sitting just off the coast near Harkers Island. But local officials are issuing a renewed warning: don’t be fooled by “Shark Island.” This disappearing sandbar has become a growing hazard for beachgoers and curious explorers.

The Illusion of an Island

Known by locals and tourists alike as “Shark Island,” this sandbar only appears during low tide. Visitors often flock to it by foot, boat, or even car, not realizing that it can vanish beneath rising water in a matter of minutes. What starts as a beach day adventure can quickly turn into a dangerous situation.

Rising Tide, Real Risk

Officials say the biggest danger comes from people attempting to drive across the sandbar, thinking it’s a stable path. But as the tide rolls in, water can surround and overtake the area rapidly, trapping vehicles and stranding visitors.

More than a few rescues have already taken place this year. And with spring and summer drawing larger crowds to the coast, emergency responders are bracing for more calls if warnings continue to go ignored.

Not Just a Social Media Hotspot

Shark Island has gained popularity on social media in recent years. From drone footage to sunbathers soaking up the scenery, the photos are undeniably beautiful. But those stunning shots don’t show what happens when the tide returns—or how quickly fun can turn into panic.

One official put it plainly:
“It’s not an island. It’s a sandbar. And sandbars disappear.”

Safer Coastal Alternatives

If you’re looking for a picturesque and safe beach day, there are many nearby options that won’t come with the risk of being stranded:

• Cape Lookout National Seashore – A ferry-accessible getaway with gorgeous views and natural charm.

• Shackleford Banks – Known for its wild horses and tranquil shoreline.

• Fort Macon State Park – Offers safe beach access plus a dash of local history.

Know Before You Go

If you're planning a trip to the Crystal Coast or the Outer Banks, make sure you check tide charts, safety advisories, and avoid any areas that vanish with the sea. That includes Shark Island, no matter how tempting it looks from shore.

When in doubt—stay on solid ground.

Stay safe and stay informed. Your next adventure should be unforgettable for the right reasons.

M​an Seriously Injured In Shooting

An early Monday morning shooting near Louisburg Road in northeast Raleigh, and a woman is in custody.​

Around 12:30 a.m., Raleigh police responded to a domestic dispute and shooting in the 4600 block of Dansey Drive, near Louisburg Road. The man was transported to a hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.​

Ajaimone Lopez has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and discharging a firearm within city limits. Police believe the shooting was an isolated incident between the two individuals involved. ​

Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The investigation is ongoing.

Explore Wake Forest’s History:

Historic Preservation Month Tours

This May, in honor of Historic Preservation Month, Wake Forest invites you to step back in time with free walking tours of some of the town’s most historic areas. Join us for guided explorations of the Northeast Community, the Local Historic District along North Main Street, and the charming South Main Street.

These tours offer a unique glimpse into the town’s rich past, and pre-registration is required for each tour to secure your spot. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the stories behind Wake Forest's historic landmarks!

🎭 Mill Bridge Nature Park Amphitheater

Undergoing Renovations

The amphitheater at Mill Bridge Nature Park is currently closed for renovations, with construction expected to continue for the next few months. During this time, both the amphitheater and the path leading to it will be inaccessible.

Visitors are encouraged to use the alternative trail located on the opposite side of the parking lot to explore the rest of the park while the upgrades take place. Thank you for your patience as we work to enhance this beautiful space!

Investigation Launched Following Death Near Zebulon

An investigation is underway after a death occurred near Zebulon. Authorities have secured the scene, with a home currently taped off as part of the ongoing inquiry. At this stage, information remains scarce as law enforcement works to gather further details.

Man Arrested and Charged in Zebulon

A man has been charged with murder following a shooting on Thanksgiving Day in Zebulon. The incident took place outside a home just hours before a family was set to gather for the holiday, leading to a tragic turn of events. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

Double Shooting in Fuquay-Varina

Authorities are currently investigating a double shooting in Fuquay-Varina in which both a man and a woman were found deceased. At this time, details remain scarce as law enforcement continues to gather information and work on uncovering the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

🌟 Spring Career Fair

Apex schools are gearing up for their annual spring career fairs, providing students with valuable opportunities to connect with potential employers. These events, designed to help students explore career paths and network with local businesses, are set to take place in the coming weeks. The career fairs will offer a platform for students to gain insights into various industries and potentially secure internships or job placements ahead of the next school year.

South Street Closure Begins

Starting April 14, South Street in downtown Raleigh will be permanently closed to accommodate the relocation of the Red Hat Amphitheater. This closure will affect the stretch of South Street between Dawson Street and McDowell Street, a key area for both pedestrians and drivers. The closure is part of ongoing city efforts to revitalize the downtown district and improve infrastructure surrounding the popular venue.

Traffic will be rerouted, and visitors to the area are encouraged to plan alternate routes as construction progresses. The relocation project is expected to enhance the amphitheater’s accessibility and bring further development to the downtown area.

Janet Cowell Elected Raleigh’s New Mayor

Janet Cowell, the former North Carolina State Treasurer, has officially been elected as the new mayor of Raleigh. She succeeded Mary-Ann Baldwin after securing 59.78% of the vote in the nonpartisan mayoral race held on November 5, 2024. Cowell’s victory marks a new chapter for the city as she takes the reins in leading Raleigh into the future.

🧪 North Carolina Science Festival – Fun with Science!

Dates: All month long!
Where: Across North Carolina 🌍
Why Go:
It’s time to get your science on! The North Carolina Science Festival is packed with hands-on activities, interactive workshops, and exciting exhibits at museums and science centers all over the state. From cool experiments to learning how the world works, it’s the perfect chance for kids to become young scientists! 🧑‍🔬🔬
💡 Tip: Check out specific events at your local science museum or park to see what’s happening this week! 📅

🎶 Cuegrass Festival – Bluegrass & BBQ!

Date: Saturday, April 19 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Fayetteville & Hargett Streets, Raleigh
Why Go:
Get ready to kick up your heels at the Cuegrass Festival! 🎸 This lively celebration combines bluegrass music with mouth-watering barbecue. Kids will love the Marbles Kids Museum-hosted Kids Zone, filled with games, inflatables, and arts & crafts. It’s a family-friendly event that will have you dancing, eating, and laughing all day! 🍖🎤🕺

🎉 Children’s Day Festival – Culture & Fun!

Date: Saturday, April 19 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Where: Downtown Cary Park 🌳
Why Go:
Celebrate cultural diversity with the American Turkish Association at the Children’s Day Festival! Expect stage performances, craft stations, face painting, and plenty of food trucks. There’s a Kids Zone with tons of activities to keep the little ones busy! A perfect mix of fun and learning for all ages! 🎭🍴🎨

🦖 Explore the Wonders at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences

Dates: Ongoing
Where: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh
Why Go:
Adventure awaits at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences! 🦕 Kids can explore interactive exhibits, meet live animals 🐢, and dive into exciting nature programs. It’s a wonderland of all things natural, from dinosaur fossils to the wonders of the ocean 🌊. A must-see for curious kids and their families!

🎠 Pullen Park – Rides, Play, and Fun

Dates: Ongoing
Where: 4089 Pullen Rd, Raleigh
Why Go:
The historic Pullen Park is the ultimate spot for family fun! Hop on the carousel 🐴, take a ride on the train, or explore the playgrounds and picnic areas. With so many activities, it’s the perfect way to spend the day outdoors with little ones, enjoying the sunshine and making memories. 🌞🎡

Grab your family, get ready for some fun-filled adventures, and make this week in Wake unforgettable! 😄🎉

💧 Benefits of Atlas Cedarwood Essential Oil

• 🧘 Grounding & Relaxing

  • Its calming scent makes it ideal for stress relief, anxiety, and emotional balance.

  • Often used in meditation or before bedtime for relaxation.

• 🌬️ Respiratory Support

  • Helps open airways and ease congestion or mild coughs.

  • Can be diffused or used in steam inhalation.

• 💆‍♀️ Skin & Scalp Health

  • Natural astringent and antiseptic qualities make it great for oily or acne-prone skin.

  • Supports scalp health, may help reduce dandruff and promote hair growth.

• 🦟 Insect Repellent

  • Its scent is known to naturally repel moths, mosquitoes, and other insects.

  • Great for natural bug sprays or closet sachets.

• 🦠 Antimicrobial Action

  • Can be used to clean and purify surfaces or added to natural homemade cleaning blends.

🛠️ How to Use Atlas Cedarwood Essential Oil

✅ Aromatherapy (Diffusion):
Add 4–6 drops to your diffuser to fill a room with its grounding, forest-like aroma. Great for calming nerves and improving focus during meditation or work.

✅ Topical Use (Diluted):
Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and apply to the chest for respiratory relief, or massage into temples and the back of the neck for relaxation. Also great for blending into a hair oil or beard oil.

✅ Skincare & Haircare:
Add 1–2 drops to your facial cleanser, toner, or shampoo to help with oily skin, breakouts, or dandruff.

✅ DIY Natural Remedies:

• Sleep Roller Blend: Combine Atlas Cedarwood with lavender and Roman chamomile in a roller bottle for a calming nighttime blend.

• Natural Deodorant: Its antifungal properties can help neutralize odor when added to homemade deodorant.

✅ Closet or Drawer Sachets:
A few drops on cotton balls or wooden blocks in drawers or closets help repel moths and keep clothes smelling fresh.

⚠️ Safety Tips

• Always dilute before applying to the skin.

• Perform a patch test to avoid skin irritation.

• Not recommended for pregnant women or young children without consulting a healthcare provider.

• Do not ingest unless under guidance from a qualified practitioner.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Atlas Cedarwood essential oil is more than just a lovely woodsy scent — it’s a versatile, healing oil that supports the mind, body, and spirit. From calming anxiety and improving skin to promoting better sleep and supporting healthy breathing, it’s a must-have in any natural wellness toolkit.

So next time you're looking to bring a little balance and calm into your world, reach for Atlas Cedarwood — and let the forest do the healing 🍃.

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:

🍝 A Taste of Italy in Garner: Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Garner, North Carolina, Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta might just be your new favorite spot. Tucked away on Son-Lan Parkway, this charming eatery delivers the kind of comforting, flavorful experience that feels like a warm hug from Nonna herself.

From the moment you step inside, Garibaldi wraps you in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The décor is simple and warm, with just the right touch of rustic elegance. It's the kind of place that works just as well for a casual lunch as it does for a special dinner out.

But let’s talk about the food — because that’s where Garibaldi really shines. The menu is full of Italian classics, and everything is made with care. The Margherita pizza is a standout — thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes, and melted mozzarella that stretches just right. It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

Pasta dishes are equally impressive. The Lasagna is a customer favorite, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. The Chicken Parmigiana arrives golden, crispy, and smothered in tangy marinara — it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to close your eyes and savor every bite.

Don’t skip the appetizers and desserts either. The French onion soup is deeply savory and cheesy, and the cannoli? Crisp shell, sweet ricotta filling — absolutely worth saving room for.

The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff genuinely seem to care that you’re enjoying yourself. It’s one of those rare places where you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit.

Garibaldi Trattoria is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. They also offer online ordering for takeout, which is perfect if you want a great meal at home.

So whether you're craving comfort food on a rainy day or planning a relaxed dinner out with friends, Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta brings a little piece of Italy to Garner — and it does it beautifully. Bellissimo! 🇮🇹✨

…………………………….👇👇👇………………..……….

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] 

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

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

📍 Fuquay-Varina,Garner, & Holly Springs📍

📍 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.

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!

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