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 ducks tell jokes while flying? Because they’d quack up mid-air! 🦆🤣

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Did you know?
Forestry is a Major Economic Driver
The forest products industry contributes more than $33 billion annually to North Carolina’s economy and supports nearly 140,000 jobs.

📍On This Day in History📍

1862 – Slavery abolished in Washington, D.C.
President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act, freeing enslaved people in Washington, D.C., nine months before the Emancipation Proclamation.

🌾 A Day Trip into the Past: Exploring Historic Stagville (Durham, NC)

Looking for a unique, meaningful, and FREE way to spend a day in North Carolina? Pack your curiosity and head to Historic Stagville in Durham—a hidden gem that offers a powerful window into the state’s past. 🕰️✨

📚 A Place Where History Speaks

Stagville was once part of a vast 30,000-acre plantation, one of the largest in the South, owned by the Bennehan and Cameron families. But what makes this site truly special is its focus on the lives and legacies of the nearly 900 enslaved people who lived and worked here. Today, about 165 acres are preserved for the public to explore, and every step offers insight into stories too important to be forgotten.

🏠 What You'll See

You won’t just look at history—you’ll walk through it. Here's what to expect on your visit:

🔸 The Bennehan House

A stately 18th-century home that gives you a glimpse into the lives of the plantation owners. Walk the halls, see the period furnishings, and contrast it with the reality of those who built it.

🔸 Horton Grove

These rare, two-story brick slave quarters were built by enslaved people in 1851 and are the only ones of their kind left in North Carolina. They speak volumes, even in silence.

🔸 The Great Barn

Big, bold, and built to impress—this enormous structure tells the agricultural side of the plantation story. It's a marvel of craftsmanship and labor.

🔸 Interpretive Trails & Exhibits

Wander the grounds and read about the families, resistance, and survival of those who lived here under unimaginable conditions. It’s emotional, educational, and incredibly moving.

🎟️ Need-to-Know Details

📍 Address: 5828 Old Oxford Hwy, Durham, NC
🕒 Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💵 Admission: FREE (yes, really!)
📞 Tours: Guided tours are available and well worth it—passionate staff bring the stories to life.

🌳 Make It a Full Day

After your tour of Stagville, why not keep the adventure going?

• 🍃 Picnic by the Eno River (just a few minutes away!)

• 🛍️ Explore downtown Durham for funky shops and good eats

• ☕ Grab a coffee or pastry at a nearby café and reflect on your visit

❤️ Why You Should Go

Visiting Stagville isn’t your average day trip—it’s a journey through time that will leave you thinking long after you leave. Whether you're a history buff, a teacher, a family with kids, or just someone who loves learning, this site is a must-see stop in North Carolina.

You won’t just learn names and dates—you’ll feel the weight of history and the power of resilience. 🌿

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

Tax Day Extension

The IRS has announced an extension of the federal tax filing and payment deadline to May 1, 2025, for individuals and businesses in several states, including North Carolina. This relief comes in response to recent natural disasters, such as Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby, which caused significant disruptions across the Southeast. Residents in parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee that have been designated as federally declared disaster areas will automatically receive the extended deadline.

The extension applies to a wide range of tax obligations, including 2024 individual income tax returns, business tax filings, quarterly estimated tax payments, and payroll and excise tax returns that were originally due between late 2024 and early 2025. However, it’s important to note that this relief does not apply to 2023 tax payments that were due on April 15, 2024.

Eligible taxpayers do not need to file additional paperwork or contact the IRS to qualify for the extension—it will be applied automatically. For those who may need more time beyond the May 1 deadline, a standard six-month filing extension can still be requested by submitting Form 4868. Keep in mind, though, that this form only extends the filing deadline, not the payment deadline.

Bunny Believed Stolen from Garner Adoption Center

A small, fluffy resident of the SPCA of Wake County has gone missing, and staff believe she may have been stolen. The rabbit, a one-year-old Holland Lop named Cookie Dough, vanished from the adoption center in Garner sometime between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Monday, April 14.

Cookie Dough, easily recognized by her tan fur and gray-tipped ears, was not microchipped or spayed at the time. Her disappearance is especially heartbreaking because she had already been promised to a local teen as a birthday surprise.

The SPCA has issued a plea for Cookie Dough’s safe return, assuring the public that no charges will be filed if she is brought back in good health. “We just want her back safely,” a spokesperson shared. “This rabbit was about to go to a loving home. Her future family is devastated.”

The Garner Police Department is actively investigating and encouraging anyone with information to call 919-772-8810. The community is rallying behind the effort, and the SPCA remains hopeful that Cookie Dough will soon hop back into the arms of her waiting family. 🐰💔

How Tariffs Are Affecting Retirees

As tariffs continue to influence the global economy, many retirees and those preparing for retirement are feeling the impact. These import taxes, which increase the cost of foreign goods, are having a ripple effect on everything from everyday expenses to long-term financial plans.

One of the most immediate concerns for retirees is the increased cost of goods and services. With tariffs driving up prices on everything from groceries to household items, retirees living on fixed incomes may find their budgets stretched thinner. Even basic purchases like appliances or cars could become more expensive, making it harder to maintain a comfortable lifestyle during retirement.

For those with investments, market volatility is another concern. Tariffs can create uncertainty, especially for those relying on their portfolios to support them during retirement. Companies that depend on international trade may see their profits dip, leading to drops in stock prices. This uncertainty could delay retirement plans or cause retirees to adjust their savings strategies to account for the impact on their portfolios.

Healthcare costs are also on the rise, with increased tariffs on medical goods and pharmaceuticals affecting retirees who rely on these items. Rising medical expenses, along with higher prescription costs, could create significant challenges for those already facing the high cost of healthcare.

Additionally, people thinking about retirement may need to adjust their retirement savings plans. With the cost of living potentially rising due to tariffs, future retirees might need to save more or work longer to ensure they can live comfortably once they stop working.

Finally, tariffs can impact the global economy, affecting industries like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. Retirees whose income or investments are tied to these sectors might face unexpected financial hurdles, and international travel could become less affordable due to price hikes.

To protect themselves, retirees should consider re-evaluating their budgets, diversifying their investments, or even delaying retirement if necessary. For those nearing retirement, it’s crucial to factor in the potential long-term effects of tariffs on both expenses and savings.

As we look to the future, understanding how tariffs influence retirement planning will be key to securing a stable and comfortable retirement.

Update On Apex Incident

A father has been charged following a tragic incident during a custody exchange on April 6 in Apex. Authorities say the father allegedly struck and killed his child's grandmother on Apache Lane during the exchange. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Heartwarming Reunion

A heartwarming reunion took place in Fuquay-Varina when the family of a 15-year-old girl, who tragically passed away, met the recipient of her heart two years later. The emotional encounter highlighted the profound and life-saving difference organ donation can make.

🛍️ Retailers Closed on Easter Sunday

• Costco – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• Sam's Club – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• Target – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• Lowe's – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• Home Depot – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Sierra, and Homesense – All U.S. locations will be closed.

• CVS Pharmacy – Most locations will be closed or may have reduced hours.

• Wake County ABC Stores – All locations will be closed.

🛒 Retailers Open on Easter Sunday

• Walmart – All U.S. locations will be open.

• Dollar Tree – All U.S. locations will be open.

• Whole Foods Market – Most locations will be open with reduced hours.

• Trader Joe's – Most locations will be open with reduced hours.

• McDonald's, Denny's, Olive Garden, Pizza Hut, Burger King – Most locations will be open with reduced hours.

For accurate hours, it’s always a good idea to double-check with individual stores, as hours may vary by location. Let me know if you need more specific information!

Wake County Libraries

• Family Storytime at Southeast Regional Library
  📅 April 16, 2025 | 🕙 10:00–10:30 AM
  📍 908 7th Ave, Garner, NC
  🌈 A lively session for young children with fun stories and songs to enjoy together! 🎤📚

• Family Storytime at Oberlin Regional Library
  📅 April 19, 2025 | 🕙 10:30–11:00 AM
  📍 1930 Clark Ave, Raleigh, NC
  📖 Another wonderful opportunity for families to bond over stories, music, and movement! 🎵🎉

🌳 Wake Forest

• StoryWalk at E. Carroll Joyner Park
  📅 All Week Long in April
  📍 E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road
  🚶‍♀️📖 Explore the park while reading a great story! Enjoy walking and reading with your family on this fun outdoor adventure! 🌳

📖 Cary

• Family Storytime at Eva Perry Regional Library
  📅 April 15, 2025 | 🕘 9:30–10:00 AM
  📍 2100 Shepherds Vineyard Drive, Apex, NC
  🎶 Enjoy a wonderful time of stories, rhymes, and interactive fun that gets your little ones excited about books! 📚🕺

🧪 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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