Former Wake County Sheriff Involved in Two Traffic Stops | MLK Community Celebration | Homelessness On The Rise

Many times your email provider will cut the newsletter articles off. If this happens you cannot read the entire newsletter. Use the button below to read all the articles and this newsletter online.

🤣Chuckle - Laughter is good for the soul.

☁️Weather - Whether we like it or not!

🧑‍💼On this day in history

🆕News - Stay in the know.

🎙️Events - Don’t miss out on the fun.

🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

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

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

Answer: Love

1956: The first transatlantic telephone cable becomes operational with a ceremonial call between New York, Ottawa, and London.

Former Wake County Sheriff Involved in Two Traffic Stops

Former Wake County Sheriff Gerald Baker was recently involved in two traffic stops resulting in citations.

The first incident occurred last week in Johnston County, where the North Carolina State Highway Patrol issued Baker a speeding citation. Authorities did not disclose how fast he was driving or the specific location of the stop.

A few days later, Baker was stopped again in Rolesville. On Saturday around 2:15 p.m., a Rolesville police officer pulled him over on Louisburg Road near Jonesville Road. During this stop, Baker was given a warning for speeding but cited for driving with a revoked license.

In a statement, a Rolesville town spokesperson said:
"A Rolesville Police Officer stopped Gerald Baker for speeding. Mr. Baker received a warning for the speeding violation and was issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle while the Defendant's Driver's License Was Revoked."

North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper Chris Knox confirmed the earlier speeding citation in Johnston County.

The duration of Baker’s license suspension remains unclear. The first incident occurred last week in Johnston County, where the North Carolina State Highway Patrol issued Baker a speeding citation. Authorities did not disclose how fast he was driving or the specific location of the stop.

A few days later, Baker was stopped again in Rolesville. On Saturday around 2:15 p.m., a Rolesville police officer pulled him over on Louisburg Road near Jonesville Road. During this stop, Baker was given a warning for speeding but cited for driving with a revoked license.

In a statement, a Rolesville town spokesperson said:
"A Rolesville Police Officer stopped Gerald Baker for speeding. Mr. Baker received a warning for the speeding violation and was issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle while the Defendant's Driver's License Was Revoked."

North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper Chris Knox confirmed the earlier speeding citation in Johnston County.

The duration of Baker’s license suspension remains unclear.

Wake County Homelessness On The Rise

Homelessness in Wake County, NC has been a persistent issue, with recent data indicating a concerning upward trend. As of January 2023, the count was approximately 916 individuals experiencing homelessness on any given night in the county.

This figure includes a significant number of chronically homeless individuals, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the community.

Alarmingly, the number of Wake County students facing homelessness has surged by 88% since 2018, indicating that the crisis is affecting vulnerable populations, including children and families.

The lack of affordable housing remains a critical factor contributing to homelessness in the region. Despite efforts to create or preserve over 3,500 homes since 2019, an affordable housing deficit of 65,860 units still exists.

Additionally, eviction rates are approaching pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating housing instability for many residents.

While specific data for the winter of 2024–2025 is not yet available, the upward trend observed in recent years suggests that homelessness may continue to rise in 2025. Local organizations and government agencies are striving to address this issue through various initiatives, including the development of affordable housing and the implementation of programs aimed at reducing homelessness.

However, the persistent affordable housing deficit and increasing eviction rates underscore the need for sustained and comprehensive efforts to effectively combat homelessness in Wake County.

MLK Community Celebration
January 23 | Fundraising Drive Ongoing

Join local churches and community organizations in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a free public celebration. The event will take place on Thursday, January 23, at 6:30 p.m. at Friendship Chapel Baptist Church, located at 237 Friendship Chapel Road.

This gathering offers an opportunity for the community to come together in reflection, unity, and support for ongoing initiatives inspired by Dr. King’s vision.

NCFST Mobile Market Returns to Wake Forest

The Northern Community Food Security Team (NCFST), in partnership with Ripe for Revival, is bringing the Mobile Market back to Wake Forest. This community resource will be available across from the Northern Regional Center at 350 E. Holding Ave. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, from 3 to 5 p.m., rain or shine.

Offering fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy from local and regional farmers, the Mobile Market operates on a pay-what-you-can scale to ensure everyone has access to healthy food.

Upcoming market dates are Thursday, January 9, and Thursday, January 23. Stop by to support local agriculture and pick up high-quality, affordable groceries for your family!

Calls for Wake County School Leaders' Resignation

A teacher who reported suspected abuse of a student is now calling for the resignation of Wake County school leaders. The teacher, having followed mandated reporting procedures, claims to have faced retaliation rather than support for bringing the issue to light.

The teacher is demanding accountability from district officials, accusing them of mishandling the response to the abuse report. This case has raised concerns about the treatment of educators who fulfill their legal duty to report suspected abuse.

The Wake County school district has not yet commented on the teacher's request for resignation, and an investigation into the incident is underway.

Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar, located at 309 N. Dawson Street in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, offers an authentic Italian dining experience in a historic setting. Established in 2017 by owner and creative director Samad Hachby, the restaurant occupies the former Melrose Knitting Mill, a building with roots dating back to 1900.

The menu at Mulino emphasizes homemade pasta, pizzas, and bread prepared in a wood-fired oven, complemented by locally sourced meats and seafood. Signature dishes include the Gnocchi al Tartufo, featuring delicate gnocchi with 36-month-aged Parmigiano and truffles, and the Margherita pizza with cherry tomatoes.

The restaurant's ambiance is enhanced by its historic charm and modern additions, such as a reflecting pool in the courtyard and a hand-painted tile roof in the Palace Room. These features create a unique dining atmosphere that blends old-world elegance with contemporary design.

In addition to its dining offerings, Mulino provides private dining and event spaces, making it a versatile venue for various occasions. The establishment has received recognition for its culinary excellence, being featured on "This is Raleigh's" Top Italian Restaurants List for 2024.

For those seeking an authentic Italian culinary experience in Raleigh, Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar presents a compelling destination that marries rich history with gastronomic delight.

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!

Collagen: A Vital Protein for Health and Wellness

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and elasticity of skin, joints, bones, and connective tissues. Naturally produced by the body, collagen acts as a building block that supports strength and resilience in various tissues.

Collagen supplements have gained popularity for their potential to enhance skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and improve hydration. Additionally, they may support joint health by reducing stiffness and discomfort, making them a popular choice among individuals with arthritis or active lifestyles. Collagen is also believed to promote healthier hair, nails, and gut health.

Collagen is found in animal-based foods like bone broth, fish, and chicken skin. Supplements, available in powders, capsules, or drinks, often use collagen peptides, which are easier for the body to absorb.

While the body produces collagen naturally, production declines with age, leading to visible signs of aging and joint wear. Collagen supplementation may benefit aging adults, athletes, or anyone looking to support their skin and connective tissues.

As with any supplement, individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before starting collagen to ensure it aligns with their health needs.

Million Dollar Dip Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (about 2-3 green onions)

• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon bits)

• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for added crunch)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the bacon:

• If not using pre-cooked bacon, cook about 4-5 slices of bacon until crispy.

• Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces.

Combine the ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, crumbled bacon, slivered almonds (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder.

Season:

• Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Chill:

• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

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