Wake County Establishes New Behavioral Health Department | Winter Storm Preparations | Joyner Park Trail | Car Collides With Fire Truck | Joint Help

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🧑‍💼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.

Temporary Closure of Joyner Park’s Pond and Trail

Wake Forest residents are facing a temporary disruption at one of their most cherished recreational spots. The town has announced the closure of Joyner Park’s pond and trail due to a sewer-line leak identified earlier this week. Officials are working diligently to address the issue and minimize environmental impact.

According to town representatives, the leak was detected during routine maintenance checks and prompted an immediate response to prevent contamination of the surrounding area. As a precautionary measure, both the pond and the adjacent trail have been closed to ensure public safety and protect local wildlife.

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our community and the environment,” said a town spokesperson. “We’re coordinating with environmental agencies to resolve the issue as quickly and effectively as possible.”

The town has not provided a specific timeline for the reopening of the affected areas but assured residents that updates will be shared as progress is made. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to visit other nearby parks and trails for outdoor activities.

Stay tuned for further updates on the situation as the town works toward a resolution.

Wake County Establishes New Behavioral Health Department to Strengthen Mental Health Services

Wake County has unveiled its latest initiative to address mental health needs: the establishment of a dedicated Behavioral Health Department. This new department is designed to enhance residents' access to critical mental health services and resources.

The move comes in response to the increasing demand for mental health support and the recognition of its importance in fostering community well-being. County officials emphasized the department’s role in filling gaps in current services and tackling pressing issues such as crisis response, counseling, and preventative mental health care.

“This department represents a significant investment in the mental health of our community,” a county spokesperson stated. “We are committed to creating programs and resources that will meet the diverse needs of our residents.”

The Behavioral Health Department will collaborate with healthcare providers, educational institutions, and community organizations to develop a robust network of care. Special attention will be given to supporting youth, veterans, and underserved populations, with plans to introduce targeted initiatives tailored to their unique challenges.

Residents can look forward to updates on the department’s progress and information on how to access its services. The launch of this department marks a pivotal step in Wake County’s dedication to building a healthier and more resilient community.

Winter Storm Preparations

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for central North Carolina starting Friday. Residents in the Triangle area are stocking up on supplies in anticipation of the storm. Crews have begun applying brine to roads to prevent snow and ice accumulation, focusing on less-traveled roads initially and moving to more-traveled ones as the storm approaches.

Traffic Incident in Knightdale

A driver and a firefighter were hospitalized after a car collided with a fire truck in Knightdale. The incident is under investigation, and no further details have been released at this time.

Former Commissioner Appointed to State Position

Former Wake County Board of Commissioners member Matt Calabria has been appointed to Governor Josh Stein's new Western NC Recovery Team. In this role, Calabria will play a key part in the administration's efforts to address recovery initiatives in Western North Carolina.

Upcoming Career Fair

Carolina Events is hosting a Raleigh-Durham Career Fair at North Carolina State University on January 9, 2025. This event offers regional firms a significant opportunity to connect with emerging talent in the area.

Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant

A Taste of Mexico in Wake County

Nestled in the heart of Wake Forest, Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant has been a beloved destination for authentic Mexican cuisine since 1994. Located at 11206 Capital Blvd, this family-owned eatery brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Wake County with a menu that balances tradition and innovation.

Tlaquepaque's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, crafted with fresh, sustainable ingredients. From sizzling fajitas and flavorful enchiladas to their signature mole sauce, the menu offers something for everyone. Guests rave about the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by colorful décor reminiscent of a traditional Mexican marketplace.

Beyond the food, Tlaquepaque is known for its friendly service and dedication to creating a memorable dining experience. Whether you're stopping in for a casual lunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving authentic Mexican flavors, Tlaquepaque delivers with its warm hospitality and vibrant menu.

A staple of the Wake Forest community, Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant continues to be a go-to spot for residents and visitors alike. Stop by and savor a taste of Mexico right in Wake County.

Visit:
📍11206 Capital Blvd, Wake Forest, NC 27587
⏰ Check their website for hours of operation.

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!

New Joint Injections

Hope for Osteoarthritis Patients

Osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide, often leaves patients struggling with joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Recent advancements in medical science, however, offer new hope in the form of innovative joint injection therapies designed to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

The latest joint injection treatments for osteoarthritis include hyaluronic acid derivatives, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and regenerative therapies like stem cell injections. Each of these approaches targets the joint's ability to repair and protect itself:

• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Often referred to as "visco supplementation," these injections mimic the naturally occurring fluid in joints, providing lubrication and cushioning to reduce pain and improve movement.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This treatment uses the patient's blood to concentrate platelets, which are rich in growth factors. PRP is injected into the affected joint to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

• Stem Cell Therapy: Derived from bone marrow or fat tissue, stem cells are injected into the joint to encourage regeneration of damaged cartilage and support long-term healing.

These therapies address the primary factors of OA—wear and tear of cartilage and inflammation within the joint. By either restoring lubrication or encouraging tissue repair, these treatments aim to slow the progression of the disease and improve joint function.

Studies suggest that these injections provide significant pain relief, enhanced mobility, and improved joint health. PRP and stem cell therapies, in particular, show promise in early-stage OA, where cartilage degeneration is less advanced. However, challenges remain, including the high cost of regenerative treatments and variability in results depending on the severity of the disease.

Patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis who are looking for alternatives to surgery may benefit most from these treatments. Those with advanced OA may still see relief but are often advised to consider joint replacement as a long-term solution.

Ongoing research aims to refine these therapies, making them more accessible and effective. Scientists are exploring combining treatments—such as PRP with hyaluronic acid—for synergistic effects, as well as developing new delivery methods to improve outcomes.

For those suffering from osteoarthritis, these innovative joint injections represent a promising step forward. Consult a healthcare professional to determine if these therapies are right for you, and stay informed about the latest advancements in osteoarthritis care.

Buttermilk Pork Chops

Tender and juicy, buttermilk pork chops are a delicious meal that's easy to prepare. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

• In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine buttermilk, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

• Add the pork chops to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.

Prepare the Coating

• In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Coat the Pork Chops

• Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each chop in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating.

Fry the Pork Chops

• Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the pork chops to the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Fry for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Drain and Serve

• Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

• Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.

Tips

• For a lighter version, bake the pork chops at 375°F for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Experiment with spices in the marinade or coating to suit your taste preferences.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful buttermilk pork chops! 🍽️

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