NC Birthright Lawsuit | Former Wake County Student Graduates College In One Year | Make It a Great Weekend | Lung Cancer On The Rise In Women

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CELEBRATION OF LIFE DAY. Celebration of Life Day on January 22nd honors the children and grandchildren who bring joy to our lives. The day is a reminder that each child and each life is to be held as a precious gift with the highest respect and dignity.

Wake County a Historic Hub of Education

Wake County, North Carolina, has long been celebrated for its contributions to education, particularly through its establishment of institutions dedicated to women’s and African American higher learning. With a rich history of fostering opportunity and intellectual growth, the county has played a key role in shaping Raleigh’s identity as a center for education and government in the state.

In the 19th century, Wake County was at the forefront of expanding educational access for women, a bold move in an era when such opportunities were rare.

• St. Mary’s School (1842): One of the oldest educational institutions for women in North Carolina, St. Mary’s School was founded to provide a rigorous academic and moral education. Today, it continues its mission as a private Episcopal school, blending tradition with modernity.

• Peace College (1857): Initially established as Peace Institute, this women’s college aimed to cultivate strong academic and personal values. Now known as William Peace University, the institution has embraced coeducation while maintaining its commitment to student success.

• Meredith College (1891): Founded as a Baptist women’s college, Meredith College quickly earned a reputation for academic excellence and leadership development. It remains one of the largest private women’s colleges in the United States, dedicated to empowering women.

Following the Civil War, Wake County became a beacon of hope for African Americans seeking education. The establishment of two historically Black colleges significantly advanced opportunities for freed African Americans during Reconstruction.

• Shaw University (1865): Recognized as the first historically Black college in the South, Shaw University offered higher education to African Americans when few other options existed. Its legacy includes profound contributions to civil rights and the founding of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

• St. Augustine’s College (1867): Established by the Episcopal Church to educate freed slaves, St. Augustine’s College (now St. Augustine’s University) has been a cornerstone of academic excellence and community advocacy, fostering social justice and leadership.

The presence of these colleges and universities solidified Raleigh’s reputation as both an educational and governmental hub. As the state capital, Raleigh became a city where intellectual growth and civic leadership thrived hand in hand.

Today, the legacy of these historic institutions continues to shape Wake County, enriching the community and inspiring future generations. This rich tradition of educational innovation highlights Wake County’s enduring commitment to learning, equality, and progress.

North Carolina Joins Legal Challenge

Against Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order

On January 21, 2025, North Carolina joined 17 other states in a federal lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s recent executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship. The controversial order, signed on January 20, 2025, aims to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to children born on American soil if their parents are undocumented immigrants or temporary visitors.

The lawsuit argues that the order violates the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to all individuals born in the United States, regardless of their parents' immigration status. North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson underscored the constitutional stakes, stating, “The 14th Amendment is clear, and no executive order can override its protections. We stand united in defending these rights.”

Civil rights and immigrant advocacy groups have also filed parallel lawsuits, emphasizing the order's potential to undermine fundamental rights and disrupt families. Legal experts predict the matter will ultimately be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court due to its significant constitutional implications.

This latest legal challenge highlights ongoing debates over immigration and constitutional interpretation, with states like North Carolina taking a stand to uphold established protections.

Wake County Schools Delay Opening Wednesday

Due to Winter Weather

Wake County Public Schools will open two hours late on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, due to the possibility of snow and freezing temperatures. District officials made the announcement after weather forecasts predicted icy conditions during the morning commute.

The delayed opening aims to ensure the safety of students and staff while allowing time for roads to be evaluated and treated if necessary. A district spokesperson emphasized, “The safety of our school community is always our top priority. We are closely monitoring weather conditions and will provide updates as needed.”

Parents and guardians are encouraged to check the WCPSS website, social media, and email alerts for any additional changes to the schedule. Bus routes and before-school programs will also follow the two-hour delay.

Local authorities caution drivers to be particularly careful on bridges and overpasses, which are prone to freezing. While light snow is expected overnight, temperatures should rise by mid-morning, reducing the risk of hazardous travel later in the day.

This proactive measure reflects the district’s commitment to keeping the community safe during unpredictable winter weather.

Former Wake County Student

Graduates College in Record Time

A former Wake County Public Schools student has achieved an incredible milestone by earning a college degree in just one year. Jane Carter, a 19-year-old graduate of Wakefield High School, completed her bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at North Carolina State University in December 2024.

Carter’s success was made possible through careful planning, including earning numerous Advanced Placement (AP) credits in high school and enrolling in summer courses at NC State. By starting college as a sophomore, she managed to complete her degree requirements ahead of schedule.

“Jane’s commitment to her education is remarkable,” said Dr. Margaret Smith, one of her professors at NC State. “Her achievement highlights the importance of dedication and making the most of available opportunities.”

Carter has already begun her career as a software developer with a tech firm in Raleigh. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. I want other students to know that with focus and determination, they can achieve their dreams, too.”

Her story is a powerful example of what can be accomplished with hard work, a supportive community, and a clear vision for the future.

Growing Incidents of Lung Cancer Among Women Raise Alarms

Lung cancer, long associated with men and smoking, is becoming an increasingly alarming health issue among women worldwide. Recent studies show a notable rise in lung cancer diagnoses in women, even among non-smokers, prompting concerns and calls for heightened awareness, early detection, and research into gender-specific risk factors.

According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States, surpassing breast cancer. This rise is partly attributed to historical smoking trends among women, as well as increased exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and occupational hazards. Surprisingly, a significant number of cases are now occurring in non-smokers, with researchers pointing to genetic predispositions and hormonal influences as potential contributors.

For women who have never smoked, the causes of lung cancer are less clear but may include radon exposure, which is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and fine particulate matter in polluted air. Studies suggest that estrogen may also play a role in the development of certain types of lung cancer in women, further differentiating it from cases in men.

Early detection remains critical in improving survival rates. However, lung cancer in women often goes undiagnosed until its later stages due to vague symptoms such as fatigue, persistent cough, or shortness of breath being mistaken for less serious conditions. This underscores the need for regular health checkups and lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk groups.

Healthcare professionals are urging increased funding for research into gender-specific factors contributing to lung cancer. Public health campaigns targeting smoking cessation, air quality improvement, and education on early warning signs are also essential in combating the growing epidemic.

“Lung cancer in women is a silent crisis,” says Dr. Emily Clark, an oncologist specializing in thoracic cancers. “We need to proactively raise awareness and prioritize resources to address this pressing health concern.”

The rise in lung cancer cases among women is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and action. By addressing the unique risks women face and promoting early detection, the healthcare community can work toward reducing the impact of this deadly disease.

Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant

Located at 7713 Lead Mine Rd. Ste. 15, Raleigh, NC, Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant has been a staple in the area since 1987. Known for its traditional Chinese cuisine and inviting atmosphere, Imperial Garden offers an exceptional dining experience for both locals and visitors alike.

At Imperial Garden, you’ll find a menu filled with delicious, authentic Chinese dishes made with the finest ingredients. Whether you're craving something crispy, savory, or sweet, there’s something for everyone. Popular menu items include:

• Imperial Egg Rolls – Crispy and packed with flavor, the perfect appetizer to start your meal.

• Shrimp Tempura – Light and crunchy, a fan favorite among seafood lovers.

• Pork Dumplings – Steamed to perfection, offering rich, savory flavor in every bite.

• Lunch Specials – A variety of tasty and affordable options available during lunch hours, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Imperial Garden caters to both lunch and dinner crowds, with hours designed to fit your schedule:

• Lunch: Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Dinner: Tuesday to Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

• Closed on Mondays for a well-deserved break.

Imperial Garden is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place to relax and enjoy great food in a comfortable setting. The restaurant’s peaceful atmosphere, complete with calming background music, makes it the perfect place for a casual lunch, family dinner, or a special night out.

One of the best features of Imperial Garden is its lunch specials—offering incredible value without compromising quality. Enjoy a satisfying meal at a reasonable price, whether you’re grabbing lunch between meetings or taking a break from your daily routine.

For those with dietary restrictions, Imperial Garden offers a range of gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurant also provides convenient takeout services for those who prefer to dine at home or on the go.

If you're in the Raleigh area and craving authentic Chinese food, look no further than Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant. With a diverse menu, exceptional service, and an inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for lunch or dinner.

Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant—where authentic Chinese flavors come to life!

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