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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, hisory and weekend get-a-ways.

📰-News - Stay in the know with local news.

🎙️-Events - #1 largest list of area events.

🆕Grocery and drug store sale ads🆕

🆕Big sales on must have items!🆕

🌶️Watch for “HOT DEALS”🌶️

🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

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

➡️New Community Survey◀️

NEW!

♦️Wednesday - Events Update Edition♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Big Savings In Wake!♦️

1965 – Malcolm X, the African American civil rights leader, was assassinated in New York City while giving a speech at the Audubon Ballroom.

Greensboro, NC: History

Greensboro, North Carolina, is a city rich in history and full of exciting attractions. From its role in the American Revolution to its impact on the Civil Rights Movement, Greensboro offers visitors a glimpse into the past while providing plenty of modern-day fun.

Founded in 1808, Greensboro was named after Revolutionary War hero Major General Nathanael Greene, who led American troops in the pivotal Battle of Guilford Courthouse in 1781. Though the British technically won the battle, their heavy losses contributed to their ultimate defeat in the war.

Fast forward to the 20th century, Greensboro played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement. On February 1, 1960, four African American college students—now known as the Greensboro Four—held a sit-in at the segregated Woolworth’s lunch counter. Their peaceful protest sparked a wave of similar demonstrations across the country, making Greensboro a key city in the fight for racial equality.

A perfect stop for families, this attraction combines an aquarium, museum, and zoo all in one. Meet sharks, penguins, and red pandas, or check out interactive science exhibits!

Discover the city's rich past through fascinating exhibits on local culture, textile manufacturing, and influential figures from Greensboro's history.

A hidden gem, this peaceful nature preserve features elevated boardwalks through wetlands, where you can spot turtles, birds, and beautiful plant life.

Schools Closed: All Wake County Public Schools will remain closed on Friday, February 21, 2025, due to continued winter weather conditions. This marks the third consecutive day of closures. Makeup days have been scheduled for some students, with dates varying by school calendar. Some classes are scheduled to be made up next Saturday

Health Alert: An owl in Wake County has tested positive for avian influenza, the first reported case in nearly two years. State wildlife officials are closely monitoring the situation.

Local Library: West Raleigh residents are pushing to keep the Athens Drive Community Library in their neighborhood. With safety concerns and upcoming renovations at Athens Drive Magnet High School, plans are in motion to relocate the library. Community members stress the need to preserve this valuable local resource.

Business Expo: The Wake Forest Human Relations Council will host the 2025 Minority & Women-Owned Business Expo on Saturday, February 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. This free event is open to the public and will showcase over 35 local vendors.

New Park in Garner: Plans are in progress for a new park in Garner, which will include expanded green spaces, trails, and playgrounds. This development is designed to provide more recreational opportunities for the community.

Now Taking Applications: The Town of Rolesville has updated the application process for the 2025 Trail Art Design Competition. The process is now split into two phases, with selected artists being compensated for their artwork. The first phase requires artists to submit their details and examples of previous work.

Monday: Meatball Monday

• Entrée or Hoagie: House-made spaghetti and meatballs served with garlic Parmesan bread.

  • Price: $17

  • With petite garden salad: $22

• Meatball Hoagie: Meatballs topped with provolone cheese, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and marinara on the side.

  • Price: $16.50

• Kid's Spaghetti & Meatballs: For younger guests.

  • Price: $12

• Drink Special: $1 off all draft beers.

Tuesday: Classic Sandwiches, Wraps, Pitas

• Food Special: $1 off all classic sandwiches, wraps, and pitas.

• Drink Special: $2 off all glasses of wine.

Wednesday: House-Made Lasagna

• Entrée: Traditional lasagna paired with garlic Parmesan bread.

  • Price: $16

  • With petite garden salad: $21

• Drink Special: $1 off all import bottles and cans.

Thursday: Appetizer Day

• Food Special: $1 off all appetizers.

• Drink Special: $1 off signature cocktails, martinis, and mules.

Friday: Famous Fish Fry

• Entrée: White Street Kölsch beer-battered haddock with a choice of two sides: fries, chips, coleslaw, potato salad, or macaroni salad.

  • Price: $18.50

• Drink Special: $1 off all bourbon and wine.

Saturday: Cajun Shrimp & Grits

• Entrée: Blackened shrimp, Nick’s andouille sausage, tri-colored bell peppers, and Cajun cream sauce over stone-ground cheddar cheese grits.

  • Small (10 shrimp): $18

  • Large (16 shrimp): $23

• Drink Special: $6 Bloody Marys and mimosas.

Bodega’s menu features an array of small plates designed for sharing, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors in one visit. Some standout dishes include:

• Peruvian Chicken – Marinated, grilled, and served with a flavorful Aji amarillo sauce.

• Lamb Meatballs – Served with chickpea purée, chili garlic crunch, and coconut chutney.

• Mushroom Ravioli – House-made by Laura’s Italian Kitchen, featuring cauliflower cream, pesto, and Chioggia beets.

• NC Goat Cheese Dip – A creamy, rich dip made with locally sourced Holly Grove cheese and oyster mushrooms.

Tapas prices range from $6 to $18, making it easy to mix and match multiple dishes for a customized dining experience.

Bodega takes pride in its extensive wine list, offering selections by the bottle, glass, or in 3-ounce tasting pours, allowing guests to sample different varieties. Their handcrafted cocktails and specialty rum collection add to the sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for cocktail lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a laid-back evening with friends, Bodega’s warm, intimate ambiance paired with its flavorful tapas and impressive drink selection makes for a memorable experience. The variety of dishes and drinks ensures there’s something for every palate, even without a formal happy hour.

Hours & Reservations

• Monday & Tuesday: Closed

• Wednesday & Thursday: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Sunday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Bodega welcomes walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for groups of five or more. Guests can enjoy patio, bar, or high-top seating on a first-come, first-served basis.

For the latest menu updates and reservations, visit Bodega’s official website or call (984) 235-4187.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, located in Raleigh, NC, offers a compelling happy hour experience that combines delectable bar bites with enticing drink specials. Situated in the North Hills Shopping Center, this establishment provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a busy day.

Happy Hour Details:

• Schedule: Monday through Friday, 2 PM to 6 PM

• Location: Available in the FIREBAR® and on the patio

Drink Specials:

• Double Black Diamond® Martini: $7.95

• Classic Cocktails: $7.95

• Select Glasses of Wine: $6.00

• Well Drinks: $5.00

• Draft Beers: $2 off

While specific bar bite offerings may vary, guests can expect a range of flavorful dishes designed to complement the drink specials. These shared plates are perfect for pairing with your favorite beverage during happy hour.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill stands out for its combination of quality, ambiance, and value. The FIREBAR® and patio areas provide a comfortable setting to relax and socialize, while the attentive staff ensures a pleasant experience. The diverse drink menu, featuring the signature Double Black Diamond® Martini, and the selection of bar bites cater to a variety of tastes, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

For more information on their happy hour offerings and to explore the full menu, visit Firebirds' official website.

Please note that menu items and prices are subject to change. It's recommended to contact the restaurant directly for the most current information.

Located in Fenton, Sports & Social Cary is the go-to destination for an energetic happy hour experience. This upscale sports bar combines high-definition entertainment with great food, drinks, and social events, making it a prime spot for after-work gatherings or casual nights out.

Happy Hour & Specials

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 4 PM – 6 PM

• $4 domestic drafts

• $6 loaded nachos

• Discounted select cocktails

Daily Specials:

• Miller Monday – $4 Miller Lite drafts

• Crush It Tuesday – Half-priced specialty crush cocktails

• Whiskey Wednesday – Discounts on select whiskeys

• Thirsty Thursday – $5 margaritas & select wines

• Friday Features – Rotating drink and appetizer specials

With its massive LED screens, arcade games, and high-energy vibe, Sports & Social is more than just a bar—it’s an experience. Whether you're catching a game, enjoying live music, or simply unwinding after work, their affordable happy hour and daily deals make it a must-visit.

📍 Location: 301 Fenton Gateway Dr, Cary, NC

Amalia’s Authentic Italian Restaurant

A Taste of Italy in Wake Forest, NC

Nestled in the heart of Wake Forest, Amalia’s Authentic Italian Restaurant is a beloved dining spot offering a true taste of Italy. Located at 1248 South Main Street, this intimate eatery is inspired by the culinary traditions of Amalia Fumelli, who was born in Italy in 1932. Her legacy lives on through carefully crafted recipes that highlight fresh ingredients, homemade pasta, and bold, authentic flavors.

Amalia’s features a thoughtfully curated menu that showcases classic Italian dishes with a refined touch. Some standout options include:

• Burrata with Winter Squash & Sage Brown Butter – A rich, creamy appetizer that sets the tone for a delicious meal.

• Gamberoni – Sautéed shrimp with garlic, red pepper flakes, and parsley butter for a flavorful start.

• Pappardelle all’Anatra – Homemade pappardelle pasta served with slow-braised local duck ragù.

• Bucatini all’Amatriciana – Imported bucatini pasta tossed with guanciale, tomato, and pecorino romano sauce.

With a focus on house-made pasta and high-quality ingredients, every dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity.

Guests rave about Amalia’s warm and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect setting for date nights, celebrations, or an intimate dinner. The restaurant combines elegant décor with a relaxed charm, creating a welcoming space that complements the outstanding cuisine.

Patrons consistently praise Amalia’s for its exceptional service, flavorful dishes, and romantic atmosphere. One guest shared,
"The food is authentic, brilliantly imagined, and well-prepared Italian fine cuisine."

Another review highlighted the attentive staff, saying,
"The waitstaff was so kind, accommodating, and knowledgeable about the entire menu. The ambiance was charming and romantic."

To experience Amalia’s Authentic Italian Restaurant, plan your visit during their dinner hours:

• Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 984-237-0002 or booking online through their website.

For those seeking a true Italian dining experience in Wake Forest, Amalia’s delivers an unforgettable meal rooted in tradition, hospitality, and rich flavors. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this hidden gem is well worth a visit.

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