Did You Know NC? | The Country's Oldest Bakery | New Money Saving Sections | Parks And Recreation Accepting Applications

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

🆕Wake County, 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.

➡️New Community Survey◀️

NEW!

♦️Wednesday - Events Update Special Edition♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Special Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Where To Find Savings In Wake!♦️

1945: The Yalta Conference commenced during the final stages of World War II, with Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin meeting to plan the final defeat and occupation of Nazi Germany

Winkler Bakery

A Historic Gem in Old Salem

Tucked in the heart of Old Salem, North Carolina, Winkler Bakery stands as a testament to centuries-old baking traditions. Established in 1799 by the Moravian Church, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating bakery in the United States.

Deep-Rooted History

Winkler Bakery’s origins trace back to the Moravian settlers, German-speaking Protestants who founded Salem in 1766. In 1807, Swiss-born baker Christian Winkler took over its operations, lending his name to the bakery. The structure, crafted by master builder Johann Gottlob Krause, showcases the architectural craftsmanship of the era, with a sturdy stone foundation and hand-laid brickwork.

Generations of Tradition

Christian Winkler, his third wife, Elizabeth, and their six children lived above the bakery, keeping the business a true family endeavor. Passed down through generations, each successor left their mark on the bakery’s legacy. In the late 19th century, Winkler’s grandson, Charles, and his wife, Alice, made structural improvements, adding a front porch and a second-floor balcony. Their daughter, Bessie, and her husband, Robert Spaugh, managed the bakery until 1926.

Restoration and Preservation

Over time, the building served as a tea room, coffee shop, and antique store. In 1963, Old Salem Museum and Gardens acquired the property and carefully restored it to its original 18th-century charm by 1968. Today, visitors can step into a living piece of history, experiencing the bakery as it was centuries ago.

Timeless Baking Techniques

Winkler Bakery continues to embrace traditional baking methods. Bakers arrive before dawn to heat the wood-fired oven, allowing it to reach around 700°F before cooling to an ideal baking temperature of 400°F. The bakery is best known for its iconic Moravian sugar cake, a sweet, buttery delicacy infused with cinnamon and brown sugar.

Experience the Flavor of History

Now operated by Old Salem Museum and Gardens, Winkler Bakery offers visitors a unique taste of the past. Costumed bakers provide samples of Moravian sugar cake, rosemary bread, and other time-honored treats. A highlight of the bakery is its famous "cookie wall," featuring a variety of Moravian cookies, celebrated as the "world’s thinnest cookie."

More than just a bakery, Winkler Bakery is a journey through time, where historic recipes and traditional methods continue to captivate locals and visitors alike.

[email protected] 

Tragic Crash Claims the Life of Charlotte-Based Pilot and Crew in Washington, D.C.

On January 29, 2025, a devastating mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., claimed the lives of all 67 individuals aboard two aircraft—a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines flight. Among the victims were several individuals from Charlotte, North Carolina, including crew members and a passenger with strong local ties.

American Airlines Flight 5342, operating as an American Eagle flight, was traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C. The crew members on board included:

• Captain Jonathan Campos, a seasoned pilot known for his professionalism and dedication to aviation.

• First Officer Samuel Lilley, a rising star in the aviation community, poised for a promising future.

• Flight Attendant Ian Epstein, a father who had made the transition from selling RVs to becoming a beloved member of the cabin crew.

• Flight Attendant Danasia Elder, a mother dedicated to her family and known for her warm, service-oriented demeanor.

• Passenger Wendy Jo Shaffer, a Charlotte mother who leaves behind her husband and two young children.

The tragic loss of these crew members has deeply affected the Charlotte community, where many lived, worked, and were actively involved in local life.

The U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, conducting a routine training mission near the Potomac River, also lost three crew members in the crash:

• Captain Rebecca M. Lobach, a 28-year-old Army aviation officer from Durham, North Carolina, and a former White House social aide.

• Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, a 39-year-old experienced pilot from Great Mills, Maryland.

• Staff Sergeant Ryan O'Hara, a 28-year-old crew chief from Lilburn, Georgia, was known for his technical expertise.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation into the crash, which remains under thorough review. Early reports suggest both aircraft were operating within their flight paths at the time of the collision. The investigation will focus on determining the cause and ensuring future safety measures are put in place.

The loss has left a profound impact on the Charlotte community, where the victims are remembered for their contributions to aviation and their families. Memorial services and vigils are being held in their honor as the investigation continues.

In the face of tragedy, the memory of those lost lives will continue to inspire and resonate within the local and national communities they touched.

Traffic Alert

Wait Avenue Lane Reduction

From Thursday, January 30, through Friday, February 7, Crowder Construction Company will be reducing Wait Avenue to one lane with alternating two-way traffic between Traditions Grande Boulevard and Havisham Court. This is part of the Dunn Creek Greenway Phase 3 project. Drivers are advised to plan and expect delays.

Join the WFPD for the Polar Plunge!

The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is calling on the community to brave the cold and participate in the first-ever Polar Plunge on Saturday, February 22, at Heritage Lake Pool, 804 Heritage Lake Road. Registration opens at 9 a.m., with the plunge scheduled for 10 a.m. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics North Carolina.

Apply Now for the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Town of Rolesville is now inviting applications for the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Rolesville Town Hall and are open to the public. Agendas for upcoming meetings can be found on the town’s website.

For more details and to submit your application, visit Rolesville NC News.

Unwined

A Great Place To Relax With Friends!

Amy and Brian Burkhardt, along with their oldest daughter, Jana are the heart and soul behind Unwined on White where wellness and community are blended in the most enjoyable way. Unwined is a unique space, including the town’s only rooftop bar, where you can find your zen in yoga or pilates classes, relish fine wines and craft beer, and connect with like-minded folks.

Amy is an attorney turned small business owner and her husband Brian has had a career in Finance and Supply Chain Management roles. Amy selects the wine they offer while her husband enjoys getting to know the local beer in this area. To keep her wine selection fresh, Amy buys from small, organic family-owned vineyards from all over the world. Visiting the lounge, you will find an excellent selection of moderately priced wines and a variety of local craft beer, ciders & seltzers. Crossing into the studio space, Jana along with several other instructors have a diverse and welcoming array of yoga and pilates classes seven days a week with various membership and class package options.

Unwined is also well known for a plethora of events that can be found on our website: unwinednc.com, either Instagram, Facebook, subscribing to our twice-monthly newsletter. We have a Wine Club and Book Club that meet monthly as well as regular wine tastings on the first Friday of the month and beer tastings on the 3rd Friday. Friday Fun Flows are on the 4th Friday, vary in theme and typically include a beverage and/or snack option allowing the yoga participants a chance to enjoy time together afterward.

• We are very excited for our Valentine’s Sip & Shop event featuring many local artisans on February 8th from 1-5 pm, Tango and Tempranillo - a fun dance lesson session that includes a bottle of wine.

• February 14th at 7 pm, Sommelier Secrets - an elevated wine-tasting experience paired with charcuterie.

• February 15th at either 4 pm or 5:30 pm, Partners Yoga.

• February 28th at 6:30 pm Prosecco.

• March 14th you’ll definitely want to grab the limited tickets for a Paella Demonstration and Wine Pairing Dinner on before they sell out!

With almost seven years in the heart of historic downtown Wake Forest, we can’t wait for the opportunity to share Amy’s love of wine, Brian’s passion for craft beer, and Jana’s zest for yoga and wellness.

Let’s unwind together at Unwined!

If your restaurant is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

Stay in the know! Subscribe to our newsletter.

Explore our complete guide to events happening in Wake County!

If your event is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Facebook for additional events and news!

If your event is not on our Facebook page and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

What Type of Calcium is Best?

The best form of calcium to take depends on individual needs, digestion, and absorption factors. Here are the most common types:

1. Calcium Citrate – Best for people with low stomach acid or digestive issues, as it does not require stomach acid for absorption. It can be taken with or without food.

2. Calcium Carbonate – A cost-effective option with a high percentage of elemental calcium. However, it requires stomach acid for absorption and should be taken with food.

3. Calcium Lactate & Calcium Gluconate – Less common and contain lower amounts of elemental calcium, requiring larger doses.

4. Calcium Hydroxyapatite – A more natural form derived from bone, containing other minerals that support bone health.

5. Plant-Based Calcium (Algae-Derived) – A good choice for those seeking a natural, whole-food source with added minerals.

If you have trouble with digestion or low stomach acid, calcium citrate is generally the best choice. If you prefer a higher calcium content and can take it with food, calcium carbonate is a good option. Always pair calcium with vitamin D for better absorption!