NC First Time Home Buyer Assistance Program🚶‍➡️ | Top Awards For Local Hospitals Maternity Care 👶

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^{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: December 1st - 24th, 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: December 1st - 31st, 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] 

Walking Considered the Best Form of Exercise

Walking is often considered one of the best forms of exercise because it is simple, accessible, and offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits.

Low Impact and Joint-Friendly

• Walking is gentle on your joints compared to high-impact activities like running or jumping.

• It’s suitable for almost all age groups and fitness levels, making it ideal for beginners and those with joint issues.

Accessible and Affordable

• No special equipment or gym membership is required—just comfortable shoes and a safe place to walk.

• You can do it anytime and anywhere: in a park, around your neighborhood, or on a treadmill.

Boosts Cardiovascular Health

• Walking increases heart rate, improves circulation, and lowers blood pressure.

• Regular brisk walking (at least 3-4 mph) can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Supports Weight Management

• Walking burns calories, helping to maintain or lose weight.

• A brisk 30-minute walk can burn around 150 calories, depending on your speed and weight.

Improves Mental Health

• Walking outdoors, especially in nature, reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

• It can improve mood and mental clarity, thanks to the release of endorphins.

Strengthens Muscles and Bones

• Walking works your leg muscles, core, and even arm muscles if you swing your arms.

• It helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

Enhances Longevity

• Studies show that walking regularly can increase life expectancy by reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

How Much Walking is Enough?

• For general health: Aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week (150 minutes weekly).

• For weight loss or greater fitness: 60 minutes daily, or increase intensity with hills or intervals.

How to Make Walking More Effective

• Pick Up the Pace: Walk briskly so your heart rate increases but you can still hold a conversation.

• Use Inclines: Add hills or stairs to challenge your muscles.

• Stay Consistent: Make it a daily habit—walk to run errands, during lunch breaks, or in the morning.

Walking is not only a great standalone exercise but also an excellent foundation to build into a broader fitness routine!

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.

Several Wake County Hospitals Named

Best in the Nation for Maternity Care

WakeMed Cary Hospital, North Hospital, and Raleigh Campus—received “High Performing” designations, the highest rating awarded by U.S. News. These rankings consider factors such as newborn complications, C-section rates, and overall quality of care, including outcomes, processes, and structure.

WakeMed leads in childbirth services within Wake County, delivering nearly 10,000 babies in its 2024 fiscal year—equivalent to welcoming a new kindergarten class every day. Its three hospitals were also commended for advancing Black maternal health and received four-star Breastfeeding Friendly designations from the North Carolina Department of Public Health.

“This recognition reflects the WakeMed team’s dedication to providing the best possible experience for every mother, baby, and family,” said Dr. Seth Brody, WakeMed’s Executive Vice President, Chief Physician Executive, and practicing OB-GYN. “We’re proud to continue serving the moms and families of Wake County and beyond.”

UNC Health also earned national recognition for maternity care, with five hospitals on the list: UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, UNC Health Rex in Raleigh, UNC Health Nash in Rocky Mount, UNC Health Rockingham in Eden, and UNC Health Appalachian (Watauga Medical Center) in Boone.

Two UNC Health facilities—UNC Health Nash and UNC Health Rockingham—were further recognized with the “Maternity Care Access” designation. This honor highlights hospitals providing high-quality maternity care in areas that would otherwise be classified as maternity deserts.

“UNC Health is proud to deliver thousands of babies across North Carolina each year,” said Dr. Wesley Burks, CEO of UNC Health. “Our teams are committed to ensuring excellent care for moms and their newborns.”

For its 2024 list, U.S. News evaluated 817 hospitals nationwide, with only half earning recognition as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care.

UNC Women's Soccer Wins 23rd National Championship

The North Carolina women’s soccer team claimed its first national title since 2012, defeating Wake Forest 1-0 in the 2024 NCAA Tournament final Monday night at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary.

Olivia Thomas scored the game-winner in the 62nd minute, curling a free kick past Wake Forest goalkeeper Valentina Amaral after drawing a foul just outside the box.

This marks UNC’s 23rd NCAA championship—the most in women’s soccer history—and its first since legendary coach Anson Dorrance retired. Interim head coach Damon Nahas became only the second first-year coach to win the title.

Both teams entered as No. 2 seeds. UNC advanced by beating top-seeded Duke, while Wake Forest defeated Stanford. The match was the first all-North Carolina NCAA final since 1992, extending UNC’s dominance to 36-2-3 in the series against Wake Forest.

Local Wake County Food Pantries Need Donations

Local food pantries play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity in Wake County. These food pantries offer essential support to individuals and families in need. These organizations provide a variety of services, including distributing groceries, hosting hot meal programs, and offering nutritional resources.

In Wake County, North Carolina, food insecurity affects approximately 8.5% of residents. This translates to tens of thousands of individuals relying on food pantries and assistance programs regularly. Organizations such as the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina report serving large numbers of people across Wake County, particularly through partnerships with local food pantries, which distribute essential groceries to families in need.

Daily usage statistics for food pantries vary but can be significant. For instance, some high-traffic pantries in the area serve hundreds of individuals per week. This usage reflects a growing reliance on community resources to combat food insecurity due to rising living costs and economic challenges

Below is a list of local pantries. If you know someone in need please provide them this information. If you can donate, please contact the pantry for a list of current needs.

Key Food Pantries in Wake County

Tri-Area Ministry Food Pantry (Wake Forest)
This pantry is one of the largest in Northern Wake County, serving hundreds of families weekly. It operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, providing non-perishable items and occasional fresh produce.

Christian Life Fellowship Food Pantry (Raleigh)
Located on Gresham Lake Road, this pantry serves the community on the fourth week of the month. They offer staple items and emphasize meeting the needs of underserved populations in the area.

New Bethel Baptist Church (Rolesville)
Operating from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, this church-based pantry provides groceries to residents of Rolesville and surrounding areas.

Oak Level Christian Church (Youngsville)
With hours in the morning and evening, this pantry accommodates varying schedules, ensuring accessibility for working families.

Hope House (Wake Forest)
Beyond food assistance, Hope House offers other forms of community support. It operates Monday through Thursday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.

Impact and Community Engagement

Food pantries in Wake County are driven by volunteers and donations, working in partnership with organizations like the Interfaith Food Shuttle and the North Carolina Department of Health. They serve as vital community hubs, addressing both immediate hunger and long-term food security challenges.

Many pantries have expanded their services in response to rising food prices and increased demand. Programs like mobile food markets and targeted initiatives for children and seniors have become critical in bridging gaps.

For more information about local food pantries or to volunteer, visit resources like the Wake County Food Finder

Did You Know?

NC Has a First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

For first-time homebuyers in North Carolina, navigating the process of purchasing a home can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are numerous assistance programs available to make the journey to homeownership more affordable and accessible. From down payment help to reduced interest rates, North Carolina offers a range of support to ease the financial burden of buying your first home.

North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)

The NCHFA provides multiple programs to assist first-time homebuyers, making homeownership more achievable for many. These include:

NC Home Advantage Mortgage

• Features: Fixed-rate mortgages with competitive interest rates.

• Down Payment Assistance: Up to 3% of the loan amount for qualified buyers.

• Eligibility: Requires a credit score of 640 or higher.

NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment

• Features: Offers up to $15,000 in down payment assistance, which is forgivable over 15 years as long as the home remains the buyer's primary residence.

• Eligibility: Available for first-time homebuyers and veterans.

NC Home Advantage Tax Credit

• Features: Allows homebuyers to receive a tax credit for up to 30% of the mortgage interest paid annually, up to a maximum of $2,000 per year.

• Eligibility: The buyer must meet income and other eligibility requirements set by the NCHFA.

USDA Rural Development Loans

For buyers seeking homes in rural areas, the USDA offers zero down payment loans with favorable terms. These loans are an excellent option for first-time buyers, particularly in smaller towns or suburban regions of North Carolina.

• Features: No down payment required and competitive interest rates.

• Eligibility: The property must be located in an eligible rural area, and the buyer must meet income requirements.

FHA Loans

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program is another popular option for first-time homebuyers due to its low down payment requirement (as low as 3.5%) and flexibility in credit score standards.

• Features: Low down payments, flexible credit requirements.

• Eligibility: The buyer must meet the FHA guidelines, which can be easier to qualify for than conventional loans.

Good Neighbor Next Door Program

For public servants, the Good Neighbor Next Door Program offers significant savings. First responders, teachers, and law enforcement officers may qualify for up to 50% off the list price of a home in designated revitalization areas.

• Features: A discount of up to 50% off the purchase price.

• Eligibility: Available to teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians.

Local Assistance Programs

In addition to state-wide resources, many North Carolina cities and counties provide their own programs to assist first-time homebuyers. Here are some examples:

• Charlotte: Offers down payment assistance programs for low- to moderate-income buyers.

• Raleigh: Provides assistance for first-time homebuyers, including down payment and closing cost help.

• Durham: Offers various loan programs, including assistance for first-time buyers with lower incomes.

Check with local housing authorities for more specific programs in your area.

Important Considerations for First-Time Buyers

1. Know Your Budget
   Before starting your search, determine what you can afford. This includes not just the purchase price, but also property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs.

2. Get Pre-Approved
   Secure pre-approval from a lender to determine how much home you can afford. This also strengthens your position when making an offer.

3. Work with a Realtor
   A local realtor can help you navigate North Carolina’s housing market and find homes that meet your needs and qualify for assistance programs.

4. Take a Homebuyer Education Course
   Many assistance programs require you to complete an educational course about the homebuying process. These courses can provide valuable information about financial management, home maintenance, and more.

Eligibility Requirements for Assistance Programs

Eligibility for most first-time homebuyer programs is based on factors like income limits, credit score, and the location of the home. Some common requirements include:

• Income limits: Many programs have maximum income thresholds based on household size and location.

• First-time buyer status: Most programs define a first-time buyer as someone who has not owned a home in the last three years.

• Primary residence: The home purchased must be used as the buyer's primary residence.

How to Get Started

1. Research Programs: Visit the NCHFA website to learn more about the various programs and eligibility criteria.

2. Speak to a Lender: A lender can help guide you through the mortgage process and advise you on the best loan options.

3. Prepare Your Finances: Ensure your credit score and financial situation are in good standing before applying for a mortgage.

North Carolina offers an array of programs to assist first-time homebuyers, making it easier to transition from renting to owning a home. By utilizing these resources, you can reduce your down payment, secure favorable interest rates, and access additional financial assistance. With careful planning and the right support, your dream of homeownership in North Carolina can become a reality.

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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!

Here’s a classic recipe for biscuits and gravy, a comforting Southern favorite. This recipe includes flaky homemade biscuits and creamy sausage gravy.

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)

For the Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild, spicy, or your preference)

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (or more for thinner gravy)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)

Instructions

Make the Biscuits:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and mix just until the dough comes together (don’t overmix).

5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Fold the dough in half and repeat 2-3 times for flakier layers.

6. Cut Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits. Place them on the baking sheet, slightly touching for softer edges.

7. Bake: Brush tops with buttermilk and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Gravy:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Do not drain the grease.

2. Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the cooked sausage and stir until the flour absorbs the grease, forming a roux (about 1 minute).

3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

5. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.

Assemble and Serve:

• Split warm biscuits in half and ladle the sausage gravy over them. Serve immediately.

Enjoy this hearty dish for breakfast or brunch! Let me know if you'd like tips for customizing the recipe. 😊

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