📨Some Changes Coming | What You Need To Know About Your RE Taxes | Affordable Eats

To Our Valued Readers,

Your unwavering support and enthusiasm mean the world to us, and we are truly grateful. What began as a local newsletter for Wake Forest and Rolesville has blossomed into something far greater than we ever imagined. As our readership grows, we find ourselves serving communities across Wake County. This unexpected expansion is exciting and humbling, and we are committed to providing news and events that reflect and connect all of you.

With this growth, we are embracing a new identity that better represents the breadth of our coverage. We are thrilled to announce that your newsletter will soon be known as "Wake News & Events." This transition will be smooth, with no interruption in service or delivery of your morning newsletter. We know you count on us to stay informed and engaged in the community. Rest assured, we are working to ensure a seamless experience. On a fun note, we are enhancing the look and design of your Wake News & Events newsletter. We are incorporating “All That is Wake” and working to celebrate our North Carolina heritage. We’ll be looking forward to your feedback!

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Stay tuned for compelling stories, community highlights, events, and all the latest updates to keep you informed and engaged.

See you out there in beautiful “Wake”

Diane
📧 [email protected]

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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, history 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

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🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

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

NEW!

♦️Wednesday - Events Update Edition♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Big Savings & Sales In Wake!♦️

If you love fashion and style, join us at “Get Boujee.” If you love great deals and savings but love looking your best and want to dress in the latest trends with a lot of class thrown in, join us on Facebook at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Need decorating ideas but don’t want to have to run all over to find those perfect items? Join us on FB at the “Get Boujee Boutique.” Join us at “Get Boujee” where fashion and Great Value Come Together!

Celebrate Your 2025 Graduating Senior!

Get your reservation in now. We only have a few spots left!

📣🎓 Senior Highlights 🎓📣

A Special Feature Section Dedicated To Our Local Graduates

We would love to help you celebrate your graduating senior with a special news release in the Wake Forest News and Events Newsletter. Don’t miss out.

Reserve your senior’s place now.

👉 Get All the information here. 👈

📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the basketball team bring a ladder to the game during March Madness?

Because they heard it was all about climbing the rankings! 🏀😂

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Which two North Carolina colleges played against each other in the only NCAA National Championship game between teams from the same state?

Answer: The University of North Carolina (UNC) and Duke faced off in the 2022 Final Four, but the only all-North Carolina championship game happened in 1977, when UNC played Marquette (though Marquette is in Wisconsin). So far, no two NC teams have met in the title game, but UNC and Duke’s Final Four clash was legendary! 🏀💙

📍On This Day in History📍

1989 – The Exxon Valdez oil spill occurred off the coast of Alaska, spilling 11 million gallons of crude oil and causing an environmental disaster.

Boone, NC

A Mountain Getaway Steeped in History

Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina is a charming town known for its rich history, stunning outdoor adventures, and welcoming small-town atmosphere. Named after the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone, the town has long been a hub for explorers, pioneers, and nature lovers alike.

Boone’s history dates back to the 18th century when Daniel Boone blazed trails through the Appalachian Mountains. Officially incorporated in 1872, the town became a key stop for settlers heading west. Today, it is home to Appalachian State University, which adds a vibrant energy to the area while preserving its historic roots.

More Editor’s Choice in “North Carolina Reading.”🛣️

• ^{_{Birds of the Carolinas Field Guide}}🦅

• ^{_{History Lover's Guide to North Carolina}}📗

• ^{_{North Carolina Bucket List Guide}}🪣

• ^{_{Grow Great Vegetables in North Carolina}}🍅

• ^{_{Hiking North Carolina}}🥾

• ^{_{North Carolina Waterfalls}}💦

Education Sector Challenges

WCPSS Faces Financial Hurdles in 2025-2026

The Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) is grappling with significant financial challenges as it prepares for the 2025-2026 academic year. Superintendent Robert Taylor has proposed a $2.28 billion operating budget, a substantial sum aimed at addressing the district’s fiscal constraints while ensuring educational quality remains high.

This proposed budget comes with a series of difficult decisions, including notable budget cuts across various departments. To mitigate these challenges and avoid further disruptions to services, WCPSS is requesting an additional $40.3 million in local funding from the Wake County Board of Commissioners.

The proposed cuts and funding requests reflect the district's ongoing efforts to balance its budget while maintaining a high standard of education for students in Wake County. As the largest public school system in North Carolina, WCPSS continues to face increasing pressure to deliver quality education amidst rising costs and funding limitations.

The situation underscores the broader financial pressures many school districts across the state are facing and raises important questions about the future of public education funding in Wake County. With the community’s educational landscape at stake, all eyes are now on the Board of Commissioners to see whether they will approve the requested funding and how the district will manage these ongoing fiscal challenges.

Wake County Updates Property Tax

Revaluation Process Amid Rising Property Values

Wake County, North Carolina, has recently made significant changes to its property tax revaluation process, following a sharp rise in property values across the region. In response to these increases, the county has shortened its revaluation cycle from four years to three, with plans to conduct future revaluations every two years starting in 2027. This adjustment aims to provide more consistent and predictable property assessments for homeowners.

The move comes after the 2024 revaluation, which saw an average property value increase of 53%. In some areas, property values surged by more than 60%, leading to noticeably higher property tax bills for many residents. For example, a homeowner with a property valued at $462,000 in 2024 faced an increased tax bill of $2,372 for the year.

Wake County officials, including Board Chair Susan Evans, emphasized that the goal of the new cycle is to create a smoother and more equitable system for property assessments. By reevaluating property values more frequently, the county hopes to prevent sudden and extreme tax hikes, which can cause financial strain for homeowners.

In addition to the revaluation cycle change, the Wake County Board of Commissioners is also considering a $2 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget proposal includes a slight reduction in the overall property tax rate. However, with the rising property values, many residents may still see higher tax bills, even with the rate reduction.

These changes reflect Wake County’s efforts to keep pace with the rapid growth in the area, ensuring that property assessments are fair and accurately reflect current market conditions. While the new approach aims to balance the need for adequate revenue with a more predictable tax process, homeowners will need to stay informed about how these adjustments may affect their property tax bills in the years to come.

Join the National Day of Racial Healing

Wake County, NC – March 24, 2025

Wake County, NC, will host a significant event on March 24, 2025, in observance of the National Day of Racial Healing. This event, held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at John Chavis Memorial Park in Raleigh, offers a unique opportunity for community members to come together, reflect, and engage in important conversations about racial healing and unity.

Organized by the City of Raleigh's Department of Equity and Inclusion, the event encourages open dialogue about the challenges and progress related to racial equity. Attendees will be able to participate in discussions aimed at fostering understanding, mutual respect, and collective growth.

The National Day of Racial Healing is a day for individuals to reflect on the shared responsibility of creating a more inclusive and equitable society. This gathering at John Chavis Memorial Park serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community action and the need to continue working towards healing and understanding.

Whether you're looking to contribute to meaningful dialogue or simply show your support, this event is one not to miss. For more information, contact the Raleigh Department of Equity and Inclusion at [email protected] or call 919-996-5740.

Join your neighbors in this important event, and help make Wake County a place of unity and healing.

Affordable Dining Spots in Wake County

Must-Try Cheap Eats

Wake County, NC, is packed with affordable dining options, from Mediterranean to Southern comfort food, and everything in between. These restaurants offer delicious meals at budget-friendly prices. Here are some top spots you should check out.

🍢 Charlie’s Kabob Grill – Mediterranean Delights
📍 Address: 12235 Capital Blvd, Wake Forest, NC 27587
This cozy spot offers a mouthwatering selection of Mediterranean dishes, including flavorful kabobs, Greek salads, and crispy fries. Charlie’s Kabob Grill is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal at an affordable price.

🍦 Lumpy’s Ice Cream – Sweet Treats
📍 Address: 306 Wait Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Looking for dessert? Lumpy’s Ice Cream offers a variety of homemade ice cream flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy a cone on the go or sit down with friends at this budget-friendly ice cream shop!

🍔 Stewart’s Bistro – American Comfort Food
📍 Address: 3652 Rodgers Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587
For classic American comfort food, Stewart’s Bistro is the place to be! They serve up hearty burgers, sandwiches, and more, all at affordable prices. It’s a great spot for a quick, delicious meal without breaking your budget.

🍔 🍟 The Burger Shop – Burgers and Fries Galore
📍 Address: 203 Wait Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587
The Burger Shop serves up made-to-order burgers and crispy fries at great prices. Known for creative takes on the classic burger, like the bok choy burger, this is the perfect spot for burger lovers looking for a quick and tasty meal.

🍚 Bowlba Cafe – Asian-Inspired Bowls
📍 Address: 3607 Falls River Ave #117, Raleigh, NC 27614
For fresh and flavorful Asian-inspired bowls, check out Bowlba Cafe in Raleigh. With a range of healthy options, this spot is great for a satisfying meal on the go without breaking the bank.

🍴 Morgan Street Food Hall – A Foodie’s Paradise
📍 Address: 411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Located in downtown Raleigh, Morgan Street Food Hall is a food lover’s dream! With a variety of vendors offering everything from Southern comfort food to tacos, this food hall provides delicious options for every taste at reasonable prices.

🍔 Aggie’s Grill Station – American Comfort at Its Best
📍 Address: 3027-101 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604
Aggie’s Grill Station is the place for hearty American dishes like burgers and fries, served at affordable prices. This spot is perfect for a satisfying meal in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

🍗 Iyla’s Southern Kitchen – Southern Comfort
📍 Address: 411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603 (Inside Morgan Street Food Hall)
Iyla’s Southern Kitchen brings the flavors of the South to Raleigh, offering generous portions of comfort food like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and cornbread at affordable prices. A must-try if you’re in the mood for Southern classics!

🍽️ Mi Cancun – Mexican Cuisine
📍 Address: 1030 Pine Plaza Dr, Knightdale, NC 27545
Mi Cancun offers delicious, authentic Mexican food with great lunch specials at affordable prices. Whether you’re craving tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas, Mi Cancun serves up satisfying meals that won’t break your budget.

🍕 Domino’s Pizza – Quick and Affordable
📍 Address: 8325 Fayetteville Rd, Garner, NC 27529
For a quick and affordable meal, Domino’s Pizza is always a reliable option. Whether you’re ordering a pizza for the family or grabbing a few slices on the go, this chain offers budget-friendly options that are great for a fast meal.

🍜 Pho Vietnam – Vietnamese Noodles
📍 Address: 1203 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
Pho Vietnam in Cary offers flavorful Vietnamese noodle soups and a variety of rice dishes. With generous portions and affordable prices, this local gem is perfect for those craving a hearty, satisfying bowl of pho or banh mi.

🍔 Cook Out – Fast & Budget-Friendly Burgers
📍 Address: 900 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
For a quick, tasty, and affordable meal, Cook Out in Apex is the place to go. Known for its fresh burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes, Cook Out provides a satisfying meal at a great price for those on the go.

These local gems offer a variety of delicious meals that won’t hurt your wallet. Whether you're in the mood for Mediterranean, Southern, or classic American comfort food, these affordable eateries in Wake County, including Knightdale, Holly Springs, Garner, Cary, and Apex, have something for everyone

Help our local food banks support those who are in need!

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

PORCH Wake Forest: Fighting Hunger

Strengthening Community

In the heart of Wake Forest, North Carolina, a grassroots hunger relief organization is making a significant impact in the fight against food insecurity. PORCH Wake Forest, part of the broader PORCH Communities network, is dedicated to ensuring that local families have access to nutritious food. Through community-driven efforts, PORCH Wake Forest has become a vital lifeline for those in need.

PORCH Wake Forest operates with a simple yet powerful model: neighbors helping neighbors. The organization collects and distributes non-perishable food items to local food pantries and directly to families in need. By mobilizing volunteers and engaging the community, PORCH Wake Forest provides a sustainable solution to food insecurity in the area.

The organization relies on a network of volunteers who coordinate food drives, collect donations, and distribute supplies. The process typically follows three key steps:

• Monthly Food Collections – Residents leave non-perishable food donations on their porches, which volunteers collect and bring to a central location.

• Sorting and Distribution – The donations are sorted and prepared for distribution to local food pantries and partner organizations.

• Direct Assistance – Many donations go directly to families in need, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals.

This low-cost, high-impact model ensures that food reaches those who need it most while fostering a strong sense of community involvement.

Food insecurity is a growing concern in Wake Forest and across North Carolina. Rising costs of living, economic instability, and unforeseen emergencies leave many families struggling to put food on the table. Organizations like PORCH Wake Forest play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing reliable food support to vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and low-income families.

PORCH Wake Forest thrives on community participation. Here’s how you can help:

• Donate Food – Non-perishable items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and peanut butter are always in demand.

• Volunteer – Help collect, sort, and distribute food donations.

• Host a Collection Drive – Engage your neighborhood, workplace, or school in organizing a food drive.

• Make a Financial Contribution – Monetary donations help fund food purchases and operational costs.

PORCH Wake Forest is more than a food distribution organization—it’s a movement of people committed to making a difference. By leveraging the power of local giving, the organization continues to grow, ensuring that no family in Wake Forest goes hungry.

To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit PORCH Wake Forest’s website or follow them on social media. Together, we can build a stronger, more food-secure community.

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