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Could the Tampa Bay Rays Relocate to Raleigh?

The Tampa Bay Rays, a team that has consistently outperformed expectations on the field, have faced ongoing challenges off the field, particularly with attendance and securing a new stadium in the Tampa Bay area. As the team explores options for its future, one intriguing possibility is relocation—and Raleigh, North Carolina, could be a viable destination.

The Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, runs through the 2027 season. Despite the team’s competitive success, including postseason appearances and a trip to the World Series in 2020, attendance figures remain among the lowest in Major League Baseball (MLB). Efforts to secure a new stadium within the Tampa Bay area have been fraught with difficulties, including disagreements over funding and location.

The team has previously explored creative solutions, such as a proposed plan to split their home games between Tampa Bay and Montreal, but MLB ultimately rejected the idea. With time running out on their lease and no clear path forward in the Tampa Bay region, relocation is increasingly seen as a realistic option.

Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, has emerged as a potential relocation destination for the Rays. Here are several reasons why the city could be an ideal fit:

1. Growing Population: The Raleigh-Durham area is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan regions in the United States. A large, diverse, and affluent population provides a strong potential fan base for a major league team.

2. Corporate Presence: The Research Triangle Park, located between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is home to numerous high-tech companies and research institutions. This corporate presence could translate into sponsorships and partnerships to support the team.

3. Sports Enthusiasm: North Carolina has a rich sports culture, with passionate support for college basketball, the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, and other sports teams. Adding an MLB team to the mix could tap into an already vibrant sports market.

4. Lack of Competition: The southeastern U.S. is relatively underserved by MLB, with the closest teams being the Atlanta Braves and the Washington Nationals. A team in Raleigh would fill a geographic gap in MLB’s footprint.

While Raleigh has many advantages, there are significant hurdles to overcome. Building a new MLB-caliber stadium is a costly endeavor. Local governments and taxpayers would need to decide whether they are willing to invest in such a project, and private investors would likely need to play a major role.

Although Raleigh is growing, questions remain about whether the region’s population and corporate base are large enough to sustain an MLB team over the long term. In addition, MLB teams have territorial rights, and relocating a team to Raleigh could face opposition from other franchises, particularly the Braves, who have a strong fan base across the southeastern U.S.

Any relocation would require significant buy-in from the local community, including support from government officials, business leaders, and fans. Efforts to gauge interest and secure commitments would be critical.

The idea of the Tampa Bay Rays relocating to Raleigh is an intriguing one that highlights the challenges and opportunities involved in MLB expansion and relocation. Raleigh offers a promising market with its growing population, strong corporate presence, and enthusiasm for sports. However, significant logistical and financial challenges would need to be addressed to make this move a reality.

As the Rays continue to evaluate their options, Raleigh’s potential as a future MLB city could gain traction. For now, it remains a tantalizing possibility that would bring America’s pastime to a new and enthusiastic audience in the heart of North Carolina.

Voted Among the Best Mexican Restaurants🌮

Voted BEST IN 2024 Gonza Tacos y Tequila was highly recognized among Mexican restaurants in Wake County. Known for its unique blend of Colombian-Mexican cuisine, Gonza Tacos y Tequila offers a vibrant atmosphere paired with exceptional dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Gonza Tacos y Tequila has several locations. 1849 S Main St, Wake Forest is one of their popular locations.

Menu Highlights:

The restaurant specializes in flavorful dishes such as:

• Nachos with Chicken Tinga

• Enchiladas con Mole

• Chile Relleno

• Shrimp Tacos

• Guacamole and Queso

Their menu includes a mix of tacos, enchiladas, and creative Latin-inspired plates, complemented by an extensive tequila selection, Latin wines, and craft cocktails​

Top Rated Chinese Restaurant👍

In 2024, Chengdu 7 Sichuan Cuisine was among the top-rated Chinese restaurants in Wake County, known for its authentic and flavorful Sichuan dishes. Located at 748 E Chatham St, Cary, NC, this spot is beloved for its bold flavors and diverse menu, which includes specialties like Mapo Tofu, Sichuan Saliva Chicken, West Lake Beef Soup, and Salted Egg Yolk Pumpkin. The restaurant is a favorite among food enthusiasts, including chefs, for its consistent quality and exciting offerings​.

A Favorite; Bella Monica Cucina & Vino Italian Restaurant🍝

One of the most highly regarded Italian restaurants in Wake County in 2024 is Bella Monica Cucina & Vino. Located at 3121 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC, this cozy spot is celebrated for its rich Italian flavors and inviting ambiance.

Bella Monica offers a relaxed yet romantic dining experience with charming outdoor seating. It is known for excellent customer service and a menu featuring both classic and innovative dishes. The restaurant is also a popular choice for gluten-free Italian options, making it accessible for a variety of dietary needs.

Popular dishes include shrimp scampi, cheesy garlic bread, spaghetti and meatballs, and a selection of pizzas. Dessert options such as tiramisu complement their extensive wine list.

Wake’s Best Burgers & Brews🍔

The best burgers and brews spot in Wake County for 2024 is Parkside Restaurant, located in downtown Raleigh's Warehouse District at 301 W Martin Street. This restaurant is a local favorite for comfort food and craft beverages. Their Parkside Burger features a half-pound Black Angus Short Rib and Chuck blend patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, avocado, romaine lettuce, tomato, and onion. For an extra indulgence, you can add a fried egg. Burgers come with a choice of sides like fries, tater tots, or chips, and their beer selection includes 20 beers on tap, alongside cocktails and wine.

Parkside’s prime location, combined with a cozy atmosphere and live music events, make it a standout destination for burger lovers and brew enthusiasts alike​.

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

A Vibrant Celebration in Wake County

Each year, the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival illuminates the nights of Wake County, transforming Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre into a dazzling display of light and culture. This highly anticipated event attracts thousands of visitors, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that blends art, tradition, and entertainment.

The 2024 festival runs from November 16, 2024, to January 12, 2025, welcoming guests daily from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., excluding Christmas Day. Situated at Koka Booth Amphitheatre (8003 Regency Parkway, Cary, NC), the festival is a self-guided walking tour that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of traditional Chinese lantern art.

This year’s festival features over 40 intricate lantern displays, each made up of hundreds of handcrafted components illuminated by thousands of LED lights. The designs range from mythical creatures to cultural symbols, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle that appeals to visitors of all ages. The vibrant colors and lifelike details make these larger-than-life lanterns a must-see.

Adding to the immersive experience, the festival hosts nightly live performances that highlight Chinese culture. Guests can enjoy martial arts demonstrations, traditional dances, acrobatics, and drum performances, offering an engaging glimpse into Chinese heritage and artistry.

Ticket Information

To ensure accessibility for everyone, the festival offers a variety of ticket options:

• Date-Specific Tickets: Perfect for planned visits, priced at $17 for adults and $11 for youth (ages 3-12) Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, tickets cost $21 for adults and $15 for youth. Prices increase by $2 if purchased on the day of attendance.

• Any-Night Tickets: Flexible entry for any festival night, available at $31 per person before November 16 and $36 thereafter.

• Twilight Tickets: Early entry at 4:30 p.m. allows for a less crowded experience, priced at $26 for adults and $15 for youth.

The festival is designed to accommodate all visitors, with paved walkways and wheelchair-accessible facilities, including parking and entrances. Guests can also indulge in a selection of Asian-inspired dishes, holiday treats, and beverages, including spiked hot chocolate for adults.

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival offers an enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season while exploring the beauty and tradition of Chinese culture. Whether you’re captivated by the stunning lanterns, mesmerized by live performances, or simply enjoying a magical evening with loved ones, this event is a highlight of Wake County’s winter festivities.

Plan your visit today and make unforgettable memories under the glow of these magnificent lights.

^{While we strive to make sure 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

• The Dessertery

  Where: Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh

  When: Various times, through December 23, 2024

  Details: A festive dessert café featuring holiday decor, unlimited sweets, hot cocoa, and live entertainment.

• 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 Wake County 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] 

The Benefits of Turmeric

Nature's Golden Spice

Turmeric, a vibrant yellow-orange spice commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, is more than just a flavorful addition to dishes. It has been celebrated for centuries for its powerful medicinal properties, thanks to its active compound, curcumin. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of turmeric and why it deserves a spot in your daily routine:

Potent Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and certain cancers. Curcumin in turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce inflammation without the side effects of some medications.

Boosts Antioxidant Capacity

Turmeric is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and free radicals in the body. This can slow the aging process and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer.

Supports Joint Health

For those suffering from arthritis or joint pain, turmeric can provide relief. Studies have shown that curcumin supplements are effective in reducing joint pain and stiffness, making it a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications.

Improves Brain Function

Curcumin boosts levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a growth hormone critical for brain health. This may help improve memory, reduce the risk of neurological diseases, and even combat depression.

Aids in Digestion

Turmeric has been used traditionally to support digestive health. It stimulates bile production, aiding in the digestion of fats and reducing symptoms of bloating and gas.

Heart Health Benefits

Curcumin may help improve the function of the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels), regulate blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.

How to Use Turmeric

Incorporate turmeric into your diet by adding it to soups, teas, smoothies, or golden milk. For enhanced absorption, pair it with black pepper, which contains piperine—a compound that increases curcumin’s bioavailability.

Turmeric is a versatile, natural remedy with impressive health benefits. Whether taken as a supplement or added to meals, it can be a powerful tool for promoting overall well-being. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Our readers have voted Oakwood Pizza Box at 610 N Person Street in Raleigh the best pizza in the Wake County area. Oakwood Pizza Box is known for its authentic New York-style pies with simple yet high-quality ingredients like homemade sauce and fresh mozzarella. Their pepperoni pizza is a standout for many locals. 🎗️

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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!

__________________

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

Classic Biscuits and Gravy Recipe

Biscuits and gravy is a comforting Southern classic, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Here’s an easy recipe to make this hearty dish at home.

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

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

• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk

For the Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Make the Biscuits:

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

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Fold the dough over itself 3-4 times to create layers.

6. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, close together for soft sides or spaced apart for crisp edges.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

Prepare the Gravy:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Do not drain the fat.

2. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

3. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve:

1. Split the warm biscuits in half and spoon the hot gravy over the top.

2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a steaming cup of coffee. Perfect for a weekend breakfast feast!

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