A Look At The Leading Area News | Managing Area Growth | Black History Month Tours | Area Hospital Under Close Scrutiny❗

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🤣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!♦️

1846 – The Mormons, led by Brigham Young, began their westward migration from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Utah.

Asheville a City of History and Natural Beauty

Tucked away in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a city where history, culture, and nature blend seamlessly. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and rich historical roots, Asheville has become a beloved destination for travelers and a cherished home for those who appreciate both charm and adventure.

Asheville’s story begins with the Cherokee people, who lived in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived in the late 1700s. The city’s location at the crossroads of major trade routes made it a thriving center for commerce by the early 19th century. The completion of the Buncombe Turnpike in the 1820s further fueled its growth, allowing for easier trade between Tennessee and South Carolina.

By the late 1800s, Asheville had become a popular retreat for the wealthy, thanks to its cool mountain air and scenic surroundings. The most famous example of this era’s prosperity is the Biltmore Estate, built by George W. Vanderbilt in 1895. Still the largest privately owned home in the U.S., this grand mansion remains one of Asheville’s top attractions.

Despite the Great Depression devastating Asheville’s economy in the 1930s, the city made a bold choice to pay off its debts rather than declare bankruptcy. This decision preserved much of its historic architecture, allowing Asheville to retain its unique charm and character. Today, its well-preserved buildings serve as a testament to the city’s resilience.

Asheville is surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called "America’s Favorite Drive," offers panoramic views, winding roads, and access to some of the region’s best hiking trails. Nearby, Pisgah National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing.

Waterfalls are also a major draw for nature lovers, with stunning spots like Looking Glass Falls, Catawba Falls, and Dupont State Forest’s Triple Falls offering picturesque retreats. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply want to take in the scenery, Asheville’s natural beauty is unmatched.

Asheville has long been known as a haven for artists and musicians. The River Arts District is home to over 200 artists working in mediums ranging from painting and pottery to metalwork and glassblowing. The city’s lively street performances and festivals, including the famous LEAF Festival, make it a cultural hotspot.

Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Asheville, with a thriving live music scene that spans genres from bluegrass to indie rock. Legendary venues like The Orange Peel have hosted some of the biggest names in music, while intimate venues and street musicians fill the air with creativity.

Asheville is also a food and drink mecca, boasting a nationally recognized farm-to-table dining scene. Its reputation as "Beer City USA" comes from its more than 30 craft breweries, making it one of the best destinations for beer lovers in the country.

With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and thriving arts and food scenes, Asheville is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're exploring the Biltmore Estate, taking in the mountain views, discovering local artists, or enjoying a craft brew, Asheville’s unique charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a place worth experiencing.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or considering making it your home, Asheville is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Black History Trolley Tour

In honor of Black History Month, Raleigh is offering trolley tours highlighting significant sites related to the city's Black heritage. Tours are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., providing residents and visitors an opportunity to learn more about the rich cultural history of the area.

Forest Fest Vendor Applications

Wake Forest Downtown, Inc. is seeking vendors and nonprofits for the 2025 Forest Fest, scheduled for April 26. The application deadline is February 9. Vendors can participate for a fee of $75, while nonprofits can join for free.

My Tree, Our Tree Giveaway

The Town of Cary is hosting its first tree giveaway of the year at Wake Med Soccer Park. Residents who registered in advance can pick up a free native tree to plant in their yards, promoting environmental sustainability within the community.

 Arrests Made in Cary Gas Station Robbery

Cary Police have arrested three men in connection with the armed robbery of a local gas station that occurred less than a week ago. The suspects have been charged with felony armed robbery. This swift action underscores the department's commitment to community safety.

Triangle Yoga Festival

Apex is hosting its inaugural Triangle Yoga Festival at the Apex Senior Center from noon to 6 PM. Organized by Peak Fit Events LLC and Facts For Youth in collaboration with Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness LLC, the festival offers yoga classes, mindfulness workshops, speaker panels, and meditations suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Annual Water Disinfection Switch

The Town of Apex has initiated its annual water disinfection process change. Residents may notice a temporary change in water taste or odor during this period, but the town assures that the water remains safe for consumption and use.

Holly Hill Hospital Update

The Holly Hill Hospital has been under scrutiny following a series of incidents in late 2024 and early 2025.

In December 2024, a large altercation involving approximately 20 patients led to police intervention at the hospital. Following this, in January 2025, the facility temporarily halted new patient admissions after an investigation by state surveyors. These events have raised concerns about patient safety and the quality of care at the psychiatric hospital.

Morning Grind Networking Event

The Rolesville Chamber of Commerce is hosting its monthly "Morning Grind" networking event. This session provides an opportunity for local business professionals to connect and discuss community initiatives. For more details, visit the Rolesville Chamber of Commerce website.

Wake County Housing Plan Feedback Session

Wake County Government is seeking input from Rolesville residents regarding the future of housing in the county. A feedback session is scheduled for this evening. Details can be found on the Town of Rolesville's Facebook page.

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 most enjoyably. 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.

Tango and Tempranillo - a fun dance lesson session that includes a bottle of wine - on February 14th at 7 pm,

Sommelier Secrets - an elevated wine-tasting experience paired with charcuterie - on February 15th at either 4 pm or 5:30 pm

Partners (yoga) and Prosecco on February 28th at 6:30 pm.

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!

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A Partial List of Local Events

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] 

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The Importance of Vitamin D for Your Health

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. Often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," it is produced by the body when exposed to sunlight, but it can also be obtained through certain foods and supplements.

One of the most important functions of vitamin D is to help the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures and conditions like osteoporosis and rickets in children.

In addition to its role in bone health, vitamin D also supports the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. Recent research suggests that adequate vitamin D levels may lower the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Furthermore, vitamin D is linked to mood regulation and mental health. Studies have found that low vitamin D levels may contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety, especially during the winter months when sunlight exposure is limited.

To ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D, consider spending time outdoors in sunlight, consuming foods rich in vitamin D like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks, or taking a supplement if recommended by a healthcare provider.

Incorporating vitamin D into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining strong bones, a robust immune system, and overall well-being.