Last Minute Pardons | Several New NC Laws Passed In 2025 | January 2025 Is Packed With Fun Events 🎉| NC No Face Masks In Public😷

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🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

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

1924: The first Winter Olympics take place in Chamonix, France.

Governor Cooper Issues Pardons for Death Row Prisoners

In a significant move reflecting his commitment to criminal justice reform, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced on December 31, 2024, that he had granted pardons of forgiveness to two individuals formerly on death row. This decision follows extensive reviews of their cases and growing concerns over the fairness and accuracy of their convictions.

The pardoned individuals, whose names have not been disclosed to protect their privacy, were convicted decades ago. Advocacy groups, legal experts, and community leaders have long argued that both cases were marred by unreliable evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, and systemic racial biases.

"Justice is not just about convictions," Governor Cooper stated during a press briefing. "It’s about ensuring that our legal system operates with integrity and fairness. These pardons are a step toward correcting historic wrongs."

The pardons do not negate the convictions but instead acknowledge that the individuals have served time disproportionate to the evidence against them. The decision opens doors for these individuals to rebuild their lives with restored civil rights and eligibility for certain financial compensation under state law.

This action is part of a broader trend in North Carolina and across the country to reevaluate capital punishment and address the documented flaws in its application. According to the Center for Death Penalty Litigation, North Carolina has seen a growing number of death row exonerations, highlighting ongoing concerns about wrongful convictions in capital cases.

The governor’s decision has been met with mixed reactions. Advocacy groups and families of the pardoned individuals expressed gratitude, calling the decision overdue. However, critics argue that the move undermines the jury system and the severity of the original crimes.

Governor Cooper’s term in office has been marked by efforts to address systemic inequities in the justice system, including pushing for reforms in sentencing, law enforcement accountability, and prison conditions. The pardons signal his continued focus on ensuring fairness within the state’s criminal justice system as he approaches the end of his tenure.

This decision may further intensify discussions around the future of the death penalty in North Carolina, a state that has not carried out an execution since 2006 due to ongoing legal and ethical challenges.

North Carolina New 2025 Laws

As of January 1, 2025, several new laws have taken effect in North Carolina, impacting various aspects of residents' lives. Here's an overview of the key changes:

Income Tax Reduction

The individual income tax rate has decreased from 4.5% to 4.25%, providing financial relief to taxpayers. This reduction is part of a series of planned decreases, with the rate expected to drop to 3.99% in 2026.

Auto Insurance Liability Limits

Senate Bill 452 has raised the minimum liability limits for auto insurance:

• Bodily Injury: $50,000 for one person and $100,000 for two or more people per accident.

• Property Damage: Increased to $50,000.

Additionally, the calculation method for underinsured motorist coverage has been revised to ensure comprehensive consideration of total damages sustained by individuals.

Toll Road Fee Adjustments

The North Carolina Turnpike Authority has implemented toll rate increases. However, drivers using the NC Quick Pass can benefit from a 50% discount on tolls, an improvement from the previous 35% discount. To encourage adoption, 300,000 free transponders are being distributed to recent invoiced customers between November 11, 2024, and February 28, 2025.

Alcohol Law Modifications

Modifications to existing alcohol laws have been enacted, including the exclusion of ready-to-drink cocktails from certain regulations.

Sports Betting Legalization

Online sports betting is now operational in North Carolina, with licensed operators offering services statewide. This expansion includes partnerships with professional sports organizations and venues, providing residents with regulated betting options.

These legislative changes reflect North Carolina's ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving economic and social landscapes, aiming to enhance financial well-being, ensure adequate insurance coverage, and provide regulated recreational opportunities for its residents.

North Carolina Implements Face Mask Restrictions to Prevent Crime

As of January 1, 2025, a new law in North Carolina restricts the wearing of face masks in public spaces, with the aim of preventing individuals from using masks to conceal their identity while committing crimes. The legislation has sparked both support and concern among residents and advocacy groups.

The law prohibits individuals from wearing face coverings that obscure their identity in public places unless specific exemptions apply. Exceptions include:

• Medical Necessity: Masks worn for health reasons, such as during the flu season or by individuals with compromised immune systems.

• Religious Practices: Face coverings worn as part of religious attire.

• Occupational Requirements: Masks used in professional settings, such as construction or healthcare.

Law enforcement officials argue that the restriction will help deter criminal activity by making it harder for offenders to hide their faces during unlawful acts, such as theft, vandalism, or protests that escalate into violence.

Proponents of the law believe it will enhance public safety and aid in crime prevention. They point to incidents where masked individuals have committed crimes and avoided detection by security cameras or witnesses.

“This law isn’t about restricting personal freedoms but about ensuring safety in public spaces,” said a spokesperson for the law’s sponsors. “It provides reasonable exceptions while addressing a growing issue.”

Critics, however, express concerns over potential misuse of the law. Advocacy groups worry it could disproportionately impact individuals engaging in peaceful protests or those using masks for health-related reasons.

“There’s a fine line between public safety and personal rights,” said Emily Nguyen, a civil liberties advocate. “We need to ensure this law isn’t used to target vulnerable groups or suppress lawful activities.”

North Carolina residents are advised to familiarize themselves with the law to avoid penalties. Wearing masks for legitimate reasons, such as medical or occupational purposes, remains protected.

As the state implements the new restrictions, it faces the challenge of balancing public safety with individual freedoms. The coming months will reveal how the law impacts crime rates and whether adjustments may be necessary to address concerns from the community.

Paul & Jack Bakery & Cafe

Located at 2010 S Main St., in Wake Forest, NC, Paul & Jack Bakery is a European-style bakery and coffee shop renowned for its artisan-crafted desserts and specialty coffees.

Founded by Jacques, a master pastry chef, Paul & Jack Bakery & Cafe offers a diverse selection of pastries, cakes, and breads, all made with traditional European techniques. The establishment has garnered praise for its creative baked goods and high-quality coffee, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Patrons frequently commend the bakery for its wide variety of baked goods and the quality of its coffee. One customer noted, "The coffee is so good too. They always seem to be creative with their baked goods and have a wide variety too."

Paul & Jack Bakery & Cafe is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing a welcoming atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon treat.

The bakery maintains an active online presence, sharing updates and photos of their latest creations on social media platforms such as Instagram.

For added convenience, customers can place orders for pickup or delivery through services like DoorDash and Uber Eats.

Whether you're seeking a handcrafted pastry, a freshly brewed cup of coffee, or a cozy spot to relax, Paul & Jack Bakery & Cafe offers a delightful experience that captures the essence of European baking traditions in the heart of Wake Forest.

Visit our all-new online calendar of events. Check it often for updates and new events in the area. January 2025 is packed with things to do in the area!

New Features include:

🎈🎈Family Friendly Activities

🎈🎈Free and Almost Free

🎈🎈Historical Sites

🎈🎈Musicals and Theater

🎈🎈Comedy Clubs, Local Music, and more!

Follow us on Facebook for additional events and news!

The Importance of Omega Fatty Acids in Your Diet

Omega fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, are essential fats that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. While your body cannot produce these fats on its own, they are vital for numerous bodily functions, making it important to obtain them through your diet.

Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation. They can help prevent arrhythmias and reduce triglyceride levels.

Brain Function: These fats are essential for brain health, contributing to cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation. Omega-3s, in particular, are associated with a reduced risk of mental decline and conditions like depression and anxiety.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to many chronic diseases, including arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

Improved Vision: Omega-3s support eye health by preventing conditions like dry eye and age-related macular degeneration.

Omega-3s are found in fatty fish (like salmon, mackerel, and sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Omega-6s are abundant in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. While both omega-3 and omega-6 fats are necessary, maintaining a balanced ratio of the two is essential for optimal health.

Incorporating omega fatty acids into your daily diet is an easy way to boost your health and well-being. Whether through fish, seeds, or oils, these essential fats support heart health, brain function, and inflammation control, offering a range of benefits that can improve your quality of life.

Grape Jelly Meatballs

 Ingredients:

• 1 pound frozen meatballs (or homemade if preferred)

• 1 cup grape jelly

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite type)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra depth of flavor)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the meatballs:

   • If using frozen meatballs, no need to thaw them. Simply place them in a slow cooker or large skillet.

2. Make the sauce:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and garlic powder (optional). Stir until well combined.

3. Cook the meatballs:

   • Slow Cooker: Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until heated through and the meatballs have absorbed the flavors.

   • Stovetop: Heat the meatballs and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Serve:

   • Once the meatballs are ready, serve them as appetizers with toothpicks or over rice for a main dish.

Enjoy your sweet and savory grape jelly meatballs!

We would love to feature you and your favorite recipe in the next issue of Wake Forest News and Events newsletter. Please fill out the attached form and submit your recipe. We look forward to hearing from you