House Fire With 4 Injured, Forest Fire In The Mountains, Drive Through Lights | Steroids In Meat

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☁️Weather - Whether we like it or not!

🧑‍💼On this day in history

🎙️Events - Don’t miss out on the fun.

🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

🆕News - Stay in the know.

🧑‍💼Featured Business - Let’s support our local small businesses.

🍳What’s Cooking - Tried and true recipes from my grandmother.

^{While we strive to ensure that all of our events are current and accurate, please always check to make sure the event is still scheduled and that the information below is correct.}

Local Concerts​

The Connells

• December 13, 2024

• The Lincoln Theatre, Raleigh (Alternative Rock/Indie

Emo Nite

• December 13, 2024

• The Ritz, Raleigh (Punk/Garage Rock)​

Holiday Enrapture V: For The Love of Music

• Dec. 14th

• 7:00 PM

• Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh, NC
  Celebrate the season with live music and holiday cheer.

Sam Smith - Gloria Tour

• Date: December 12, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM

• Location: PNC Arena, Raleigh, NC

Chris Stapleton - All-American Road Show

• Date: December 15, 2024

• Time: 7:30 PM

• Location: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, Raleigh, NC

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

• December 14, 2024

• The Spectrum Center, Charlotte (Progressive Rock)

H.E.R. - Back of My Mind Tour

• Date: December 16, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh, NC

A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland

• December 18, 2024

• Carolina Theatre, Durham

Toubab Krewe

• Date: Saturday, December 21

• Venue: The Pour House Music Hall

• Time: 8:00 PM

• Tickets on StubHub​

Musicals and Live Theater

Carolina Ballet's The Nutcracker

• Dates: December 12–24

• Venue: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

• Description: A magical performance with grand illusions, live orchestra, and over 100 performers.

• Tickets: More Info​

Clara's Trip - A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story

• Dates: December 20–22

• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theatre

• Description: A cirque-inspired take on The Nutcracker, blending acrobatics and storytelling.

• Tickets: More Info​​

Christmas with C.S. Lewis

• Date: December 18

• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theatre

• Description: A stage adaptation exploring the works of C.S. Lewis.

• Tickets: More Info​

Christmas Lights

WRAL Nights of Lights at Dorothea Dix Park

• Dates: November 30 – December 24, 2024

• Details: A drive-through light experience with themed displays, a 250-foot animated tunnel, and local art installations. There are options for walking, running, or cycling on specific nights.

• Tickets: Starting at $20 (varies by date and time).

• More info and tickets​

Fieldstream Farm Christmas Light Show

• Dates: November 29 – December 31, 2024

• Details: A one-mile drive-through with over 2 million lights, including a stunning LED tunnel.

• Location: 8008 Old Stage Road, Raleigh, NC

• Tickets: Purchase online.

• More info and tickets​

Downtown Raleigh Illuminate Art Walk

• Dates: December 6, 2024 – January 6, 2025

• Details: Free light-based art installations along Fayetteville Street, best enjoyed after dark.

• More Information

Craft Shows ​​

Apex Holly Jolly Artisan Market

• Date: December 16, 2024

• Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Location: Downtown Apex, NC

• Details: A vibrant market featuring local crafters and holiday-themed goods.

• More Info​

These events offer great opportunities to support local artisans and find unique gifts.

Events

Raleigh

• North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
  Dates: December 1–31, 2024 (Evenings)
  Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre
  Tickets: $11–26
  Enjoy an incredible display of illuminated, handcrafted lanterns at this annual event.
  More info and tickets

• Raleigh Beer Garden Trivia Nights
  Dates: Tuesdays, December 2024
  Location: Raleigh Beer Garden
  Cost: Free
  A fun, competitive trivia night paired with local brews.

Wake Forest

• Piper Lights Display
  Dates: December 1–31, 2024
  Location: Piper Lights, Wake Forest
  Cost: Free
  One of the most popular holiday light displays in the Triangle area.

Durham

• Craft Markets at Durham Farmers’ Market
  Dates: Saturdays in December 2024
  Location: Durham Central Park
  Cost: Free to browse
  Featuring handmade items, perfect for unique holiday gifts.

Cary

• Downtown Cary Ice Skating Rink
  Dates: Daily in December 2024
  Location: Downtown Cary Park
  Tickets: $6–15
  A festive outdoor skating experience for all ages.

Rolesville

• Rolesville Christmas Parade
  Date: December 14, 2024, 2:00 PM
  Location: Main Street, Rolesville
  Cost: Free
  A community favorite with floats, music, and Santa Claus appearances.

Free Activities

Illuminate Art Walk

• Dates: December 6 – January 6, evenings

• Location: Downtown Raleigh

• Details: Self-guided tour of large-scale interactive light installations​

  Raleigh Family Adventure

  Downtown Cary’s Gifting Tree Project

  • Dates: December 7 – 26, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Location: Downtown Cary Park

  • Details: Wander among beautifully decorated trees​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

  Apex Holiday Tour of Lights

• Dates: December 7 – 26, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Various locations in Apex

• Details: Homes and businesses light up for a festive self-driving tour​

  Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

Community Displays and Activities

• Lights on the Meadow

  • Dates: December 7 – 29 (Wed–Sun)

  • Location: 9301 Hay Meadow Court, Raleigh

  • Details: A family-run Christmas light display​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

• Cary Gingerbread House Stroll

  • Dates: December 7 – 30

  • Location: Downtown Cary businesses

  • Details: Gingerbread houses displayed for public viewing​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

• Nelson’s Christmas Light Show

  • Dates: December 6 – January 1, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Wed–Sun)

  • Location: 3909 Falmouth Dr., Raleigh

  • Details: Free synchronized light display​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

These events offer fun, festive, and family-friendly experiences across the Triangle area at no cost.

Fun and Affordable

• Free Santa Photos at Bass Pro Shops Santa's Wonderland
  Enjoy a free visit to Santa at Bass Pro Shops in Cary and Garner. This event is ongoing, and you can get a free photo with Santa—no purchase required.
  Dates/Times: All day
  Location: Bass Pro Shops, 801 Bass Pro Lane, Cary, and 201 Cabela Drive, Garner

• The RINK Outdoor Ice Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater
  Experience outdoor ice skating in downtown Raleigh. Tickets are affordable, and you can skate on a natural ice rink under the holiday lights.
  Dates/Times: Open all day

• Sculpture in the Garden at North Carolina Botanical Garden
  Explore the 36th Annual Sculpture in the Garden. Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation.
  *Dates/Times​ 5:00 PM
  Location: North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill
  Details

• Historic Yates Mill County Park
  This park offers free admission and is a great place​

  TripBuzz

  wildlife watching, and history exploration.
  Dates/Times: All day
  Location: 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh
  Details

• Holiday Kiln Opening at Mark Hewitt Pottery
  Visit Pottery in Pittsboro for a free look at handmade pottery and unique holiday shopping.
  Dates/Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  Location: Mark Hewitt Pottery, Pittsboro
  Details

These events offer a variety of fun, free, or low-cost options for enjoying the weekend in the Triangle. Check the links for more details or to register.

Farmer’s Markets

State Farmers Market (Raleigh)

• Dates: Open daily throughout December

• Times: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Details: Enjoy local produce, fresh meats, handmade crafts, and more.

• More Info: Visit the State Farmers Market

Durham Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 14, 21

• Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: Features local farmers, artisans, and food trucks with a festive atmosphere for the holidays.

• More Info: Durham Farmers Market

Wake Forest Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 14, 21

• Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: A cozy market with local produce, seasonal crafts, and specialty holiday items.

• More Info: Wake Forest Farmers Market

Cary Downtown Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 14

• Times: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: This market includes fresh local produce, baked goods, and holiday-themed products.

• More Info: Cary Downtown Farmers Market

Apex Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 14

• Times: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: Explore locally grown and handcrafted holiday items in a cheerful setting.

• More Info: Apex Farmers Market

Rolesville Farmers Market

• Dates: December 14 (Holiday Market Day)

• Times: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Details: Celebrate the season with local produce, handmade crafts, and festive treats.

• More Info: Rolesville Farmers Market

These markets are perfect for picking up unique holiday gifts, fresh ingredients for your celebrations, or simply enjoying the local community vibe.

Email us to add your event: [email protected] 

Are Steroids in Our Meat Dangerous?

The use of steroids and other growth-promoting agents in livestock production has been a topic of debate for decades. While these substances can enhance the efficiency of meat production, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on human health and the environment. But are steroids in our meat truly dangerous? Let’s explore the science and regulations behind this controversial topic.

Understanding Steroids in Livestock

Steroids, such as synthetic hormones, are sometimes used in livestock to promote growth and improve feed efficiency. Commonly used hormones include estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone, as well as synthetic versions like zeranol and trenbolone acetate. These substances help animals grow faster and produce leaner meat, which can reduce costs for producers and consumers.

Regulatory Oversight and Safety Standards

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) strictly regulate the use of hormones in livestock. Before approval, these substances undergo extensive testing to ensure they do not pose a significant risk to human health. Residue levels in meat are closely monitored and must fall below established safety thresholds.

The European Union (EU), however, has taken a more cautious approach, banning the use of growth-promoting hormones in livestock. This has fueled ongoing debates about whether the stricter EU regulations or the more permissive U.S. policies better protect consumers.

Potential Risks to Human Health

Despite regulatory assurances, some researchers and advocacy groups argue that the use of steroids in meat production could have unintended consequences:

1. Hormonal Imbalances: Trace amounts of hormones in meat might disrupt the endocrine system, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. However, the levels found in regulated meat are typically much lower than those naturally present in many foods, including milk and soy products.

2. Antibiotic Resistance: Though not directly related to steroids, growth-promoting practices are sometimes associated with antibiotic use, which raises concerns about the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

3. Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest a potential link between hormone residues and an increased risk of certain cancers, but definitive evidence is lacking. The risk appears to be minimal if meat consumption remains within recommended dietary guidelines. However, a major concern is the fact that our population is exposed to many potential sources of toxic chemicals, hormones, endocrine disrupters, and various sources of chemicals that can have an accumulated adverse affect on the human body.  

Environmental Concerns

Steroids used in livestock can enter the environment through animal waste, potentially affecting ecosystems and water supplies. Hormone residues in soil and water may disrupt the reproductive systems of wildlife, raising questions about the long-term ecological impact.

What Can Consumers Do?

If you’re concerned about steroids in meat, here are some steps you can take:

• Choose Organic or Hormone-Free Products: Look for labels like "USDA Organic" or "No Added Hormones" to ensure your meat comes from animals raised without growth-promoting steroids.

• Diversify Your Diet: Incorporate more plant-based proteins into your meals to reduce overall meat consumption.

• Stay Informed: Research and follow updates from reputable sources to understand the latest findings and regulations.

The Bottom Line

The danger of steroids in meat largely depends on your perspective. Regulatory agencies in the U.S. maintain that the levels of hormones in meat are safe for consumption, while critics point to potential long-term risks and environmental concerns. By making informed choices and understanding the science behind the issue, consumers can take steps to minimize any perceived risks while supporting sustainable food practices.

It’s as simple as this! Tell us why you love this pizza restaurant, your favorite pizza, all about the service, the restaurant’s name, location, and a picture, if you have it. Make your recommendation loud and clear. I know the owner will love it! Who knows, they may see a ton of new business coming in their front door. Wouldn’t that be amazing?

Email us here.

Woman in Wheelchair Severely Burned,

3 Others Injured in Wake County Fire

A tragic house fire near Rolesville on Saturday afternoon left a woman in a wheelchair critically injured and three others hospitalized, officials reported.

The fire, which destroyed a mobile home, was reported at 3:15 p.m. at 4904 Rocky Knoll Lane, near Burlington Mills Road, west of U.S. 401 Business, according to the Wake County Fire Marshal.

Four adults were inside the home when the blaze erupted. All were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

Firefighters rescued the wheelchair-bound woman from the burning structure. She sustained severe burns and was transported to the North Carolina Burn Center in Chapel Hill for critical care.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

NC Mountain Wildfire Grows to 520 Acres

Nearly 100 Crews Battling Flames

Officials confirmed that a wildfire in the North Carolina mountains has burned approximately 520 acres, continuing to spread and threatening four homes.

The blaze, located in McDowell County near Marion, is 50% contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Nearly 100 firefighting crews are working to bring the fire under control.

The Buck Creek Fire began when a powerline came down, igniting dry vegetation. The fire is primarily burning on U.S. Forest Service lands within the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, east of N.C. 80 in the Lake Tahoma area of Marion.

Wildfire risks have been elevated due to Hurricane Helene, which toppled hundreds of trees, providing ample fuel for the flames.

Four homes remain at risk in the fire's vicinity. Officials warn the public to expect visible smoke, particularly along the U.S. 221 corridor in Marion.

"Use caution when driving through smoky areas, especially during the evenings and mornings when smoke tends to settle closer to the ground," U.S. Forest Service officials advised.

Drive Through Christmas Displays

Wake County, North Carolina, offers several festive drive-through Christmas light displays for families to enjoy this holiday season:

WRAL Nights of Lights at Dorothea Dix Park (Raleigh)
This 1.3-mile drive-through features illuminated trees, festive displays, and local art installations. Visitors can enjoy views of the Raleigh skyline peeking through the towering oak trees. Tickets must be purchased in advance, starting at $20 per vehicle. The event runs from November 25 to December 24​.

Piper Lights (Wake Forest)
Located on 5725 Fixit Shop Road, Piper Lights is a seven-acre family-run display that's been delighting visitors for over 30 years. This free drive-through experience operates nightly from November 29 to January 1. Donations are accepted to support the display​

.Lake Myra Christmas Lights (Wendell)
Known for its synchronized light and music show, this display runs from November 23 to December 31 in Wendell. While it’s a walk-through experience, the lights are visible from your car if you prefer a drive-through viewing. The display is free but donations are appreciated​

For a magical holiday outing, these light displays provide a mix of convenience, creativity, and community spirit. Make sure to check each event's schedule for updates, as weather conditions may affect availability.

Several New Business Open in Wake County

Wake County, NC, continues to attract a variety of new businesses, contributing to its growth and appeal. Here are some of the notable openings across the area.

Wendell Falls has welcomed several new businesses, including local restaurants, retail shops, and service providers, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant community hub​.

Recently in Wake Forest14 new businesses have opened or are in development. Highlights include a new Starbucks, Mod Pizza, Tropical Picken Chicken relocating to a central area, and Panera Café. Additionally, businesses like Party Delights and Foundation Goods Thrift Store add to the local retail scene​.

Raleigh has seen new restaurants like BB’s Crispy Chicken and The Flying Biscuit Café opening recently, alongside retail expansions in areas like North Hills​

These developments illustrate the county's diverse economic growth, spanning hospitality, dining, and retail sectors.

If you like receiving our Wake Forest News and Events newsletter, please forward our newsletter to a friend and recommend they subscribe! We would appreciate it.

The Giving Tree

Doing Good!

The Giving Tree is a non-profit thrift and gift shop with two locations in Wake Forest and Youngsville, NC. They aim to support 20 K-12 public, private, and charter schools in these communities by funding educational, enrichment, and extracurricular programs. The Giving Tree accomplishes this by donating the profits from their stores to benefit these schools.

A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Charity!

The Giving Tree sells donated home goods and gives all of the proceeds to the 20 schools in Wake Forest and Youngsville. This unique boutique-like setting offers a carefully curated selection of donated home goods, including furniture, decor, collectibles, artwork, and children’s items. To complement the donated merchandise, they also feature a variety of new items, such as jewelry, scarves, soaps, and lotions.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or a unique addition to your home, The Giving Tree has something for everyone!

This week’s recipe is from Grandma’s kitchen.

I love this appetizer during the holidays!

Cranberry & Brie Puff Appetizers

• 10 to 12 ounces of fresh Brie Cheese

• 2 sheets of frozen puff pastry thawed overnight in the refrigerator

• 1 C  whole berry cranberry sauce or jam (I love the jam)

• 1 t sea salt 

• ½  C  finely chopped pecans

• 5 springs of fresh rosemary cut into pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Brie

   • Position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. Preheat to 375°F.

   • Place the Brie in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.

   • Generously coat two 24-cup mini muffin pans with nonstick spray. (If you only have one pan or two 12-cup pans, bake in batches.)

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry

   • Unroll one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface (keep the second sheet in the refrigerator until needed).

   • Roll the pastry into a 10 x 14-inch rectangle.

   • Cut the sheet lengthwise into four equal strips, then cut crosswise into six strips to create 24 squares (each about 2.5 inches on each side).

   • Gently press each square into the mini muffin tin to form cups. Prick the bottoms of the pastry cups 2–3 times with a fork.

3. Assemble

   • Cut the Brie in half and return one half to the freezer. Dice the remaining half into 24 small pieces (about 3/4 to 1/2 inch per side).

   • Place one piece of Brie in each puff pastry cup. Top with 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce, a sprinkle of salt, and half of the chopped pecans. Refrigerate the tray.

   • Repeat the process with the second puff pastry sheet, the remaining Brie, salt, and pecans.

4. Bake

   • Place each muffin pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any overflow.

   • Bake for 18–20 minutes, rotating the pans between the upper and lower racks halfway through. The pastry should be puffed, and the corners golden brown.

   • Let the bites cool in the pans for 3 minutes. If the Brie or cranberry has bubbled out, use a fork to gently push it back into the center.

5. Serve and Enjoy

   • Use a fork to carefully transfer the bites to a serving plate.

   • Garnish each with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. Serve warm or at room temperature.

You don't stop laughing when you grow old
You grow old when you stop laughing!