📨A Swing In The RE Market | Where The Eggstravaganzas Are 🐰| 🎶 Six Sundays Spring Concert Series🎶| Couple Found Dead In Their Home

To My Valued Readers Across Wake County,

We’re gearing up for an exciting update to your favorite newsletter, Wake News & Events! As we make this transition, there may be a few small bumps along the way, but please know we’re doing everything we can to make the process as smooth as possible.

If you have any upcoming events you’d like to share with the community, we’d love to include them! Simply reach out and let us know—we always enjoy hearing from you.

Thank you for being a part of our newsletter family. Your support means the world to us!

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane
📧 [email protected] 

Remember, every new chapter brings fresh opportunities—embrace the changes ahead with confidence and excitement!

PS

Help Us Find the Best Biscuits & Gravy in Wake County!

We're on a mission to discover the BEST biscuits and gravy in Wake County, and we need your help! 🍽️

Do you have a favorite spot that serves up the most delicious, buttery biscuits smothered in rich, savory gravy? We're taking a poll, and the restaurant with the most recommendations will be featured in our next Wake Forest News and Events newsletter!

📩 Email me your recommendation and let us know which restaurant deserves the spotlight!

Who serves the best biscuits and gravy in town? Cast your vote now! 😋

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🧑‍💼-On this day in history!

🛣️-Wake County, history and weekend get-a-ways.

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♦️Wednesday - Events Update Edition♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Big Savings & Sales In Wake!♦️

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the basketball team go to the bank during March Madness?

Because they wanted to cash in on their shots! 🏀😂

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Did you know that North Carolina is home to the oldest public university in the U.S.?

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, founded in 1789, was the first public university to hold classes and graduate students! 🎓

📍On This Day in History📍

1968 – Martin Luther King Jr. Assassinated
Civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, on this day. His death marked a significant turning point in the Civil Rights Movement.

Bentonville Battlefield

A Key Civil War Site in North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Bentonville Battlefield is one of the most significant Civil War battlefields in the United States. The site, located near Four Oaks, North Carolina, preserves the history of the Battle of Bentonville, the largest Confederate defeat in the state and one of the final battles of the Civil War. Today, it stands as a testament to the state's role in the war and offers a place of reflection, education, and remembrance.

The Battle of Bentonville took place from March 19-21, 1865, near the small community of Bentonville, which lies in Johnston County, about 40 miles southeast of Raleigh. This battle was part of the Union's strategy to march through the South and bring the Confederacy to its knees. General William Tecumseh Sherman, leading the Union Army, had already captured Atlanta and was advancing through Georgia and the Carolinas in what became known as Sherman's March to the Sea.

As Sherman’s army moved through the state of North Carolina, Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston sought to halt the Union's advance and perhaps even negotiate terms of peace. The Confederates launched an attack on the Union troops at Bentonville, hoping to strike a blow to the advancing force. However, despite initial successes, the Confederate forces were unable to win. The Union Army, though outnumbered, held their ground, and after three days of brutal fighting, the Confederates retreated, ultimately leading to the eventual surrender of the Confederacy in April 1865.

The battle at Bentonville was significant for several reasons. It marked one of the last major Confederate efforts to stop Sherman’s march, and it was one of the largest engagements in North Carolina. Though the Union Army was victorious, the battle also demonstrated the Confederacy’s desperation in the final days of the war. The battlefield remains an important site for understanding the scale and intensity of the conflict in the Carolinas during the final stages of the Civil War.

Bentonville Battlefield holds a profound place in Civil War history. It was one of the largest battles fought in North Carolina and was a defining moment in the eventual collapse of the Confederacy. The battle was notable for its size—approximately 80,000 soldiers participated—and the fact that it was one of the last times Confederate troops tried to stop Union forces from advancing.

The site is preserved today as Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, which is managed by the North Carolina Division of State Historic Sites. Its preservation ensures that future generations can learn about the struggle, sacrifice, and strategic importance of the battle.

Visiting Bentonville Battlefield is like stepping back in time. The landscape, largely unchanged since the battle, provides visitors with a chance to walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought there.

1. The Visitor Center
   The Bentonville Battlefield Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your visit. Here, you can explore informative exhibits that provide historical context about the battle and its significance. The museum displays artifacts from the battlefield, photographs, and maps, helping visitors understand the dynamics of the battle and the lives of the soldiers who fought there.

2. The Historic Battlefield
   The battlefield itself is open to visitors who want to experience the vast expanse where the battle took place. You can walk or drive along a self-guided tour that takes you to key locations on the battlefield, including areas where significant fighting occurred. Markers and signs along the way help explain the strategies and key moments of the battle.

3. The Harper House
   One of the most notable buildings still standing at the Bentonville Battlefield is the Harper House, a two-story home that was used as a field hospital during the battle. The Harper family, who owned the house, were forced to vacate their home as Union soldiers used it to tend to the wounded. The house is an excellent example of the personal toll the war took on civilians, and today it stands as a preserved historic site. Visitors can tour the house and learn about the lives of those who lived there during the battle.

4. Cemetery and Mass Graves
   A short walk from the Harper House leads to the Bentonville Battlefield Cemetery, where both Union and Confederate soldiers were buried after the battle. The cemetery provides a somber reminder of the heavy loss of life, and many graves remain marked with the names of soldiers who died during the battle.

Bentonville Battlefield offers much more than just a historical site. Visitors can immerse themselves in the past through various activities:

1. Guided Tours
   If you want a deeper understanding of the battle and its historical context, consider taking a guided tour. Knowledgeable rangers lead tours of the battlefield, explaining the significance of each location and providing insights into the lives of the soldiers who fought there. These tours are often available by appointment or as part of scheduled events.

2. Living History Events
   Throughout the year, the Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site hosts living history events, where reenactors bring the past to life. These events allow visitors to experience historical demonstrations, including weaponry, military drills, and civilian life during the war. Special events, such as the annual Bentonville Battlefield Reenactment, draw large crowds and provide a thrilling way to experience the history of the battle.

3. Hiking and Picnicking
   The park also offers trails for hiking, where you can walk through the woods and open fields that saw fierce fighting. There are also picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal amidst the beauty of the historic site.

Bentonville Battlefield is not just a place for history buffs; it’s an important site for anyone interested in understanding the impact of the Civil War on North Carolina and the nation as a whole. The preserved battlefield and historic buildings offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to witness the events that helped shape the nation’s history.

The site is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about the complexities of the Civil War, the challenges of warfare, and the personal sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians alike. Whether you are drawn by the history, the peaceful surroundings, or the chance to participate in educational programs, Bentonville Battlefield offers something for everyone.

A visit to Bentonville is an opportunity to reflect on the past, honor those who fought and died, and understand the pivotal moments that contributed to the end of the Civil War. For those with an interest in history, Bentonville Battlefield is a must-see site in North Carolina.

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}}💦

Wake County’s New Property Tax Changes

What Homeowners Need to Know

If you were one of the many homeowners who gasped in disbelief last year when you saw your property value and taxes skyrocket, you weren’t alone. The sudden increase in home values created major sticker shock, leading to higher tax bills and, for many, higher mortgage payments.

A big reason for this spike was the real estate boom that followed the pandemic. Home prices surged across Wake County as demand out paced supply, leading to dramatic property revaluations. Thankfully, as the market stabilizes, we’re hopeful that future increases won’t be as extreme.

In response to these sharp changes, Wake County recently approved a plan to shorten the property revaluation cycle. Instead of reassessing values every four years, the county will now evaluate properties every two years to better reflect market trends. Since we just went through a reassessment, this change will take effect in January 2027, with updates occurring every two years after that.

The goal is to create a more gradual adjustment to property values rather than the large jumps we’ve seen in the past. While taxes will still fluctuate based on market conditions, this new approach aims to keep things more predictable for homeowners.

By Marie Logue

Wake County Housing Market Update

Inventory Rises While Prices Stabilize

As of March 31, 2025, Wake County’s real estate market is seeing a shift compared to last year, with a significant increase in available properties and a more measured pace of price growth.

Housing inventory in the Triangle region, including Wake County, has risen by nearly 30% over the past year. This increase is offering relief to buyers who previously struggled with a tight market. The boost in supply suggests that the market is beginning to rebalance, giving buyers more options and reducing the level of bidding wars.

While home prices are still climbing, the pace of appreciation has slowed. In March 2024, the median sales price for a home in Wake County was $459,000, a notable jump from the previous month. However, by February 2025, the median price in the broader Triangle area had settled at $431,000, indicating a slight decrease in recent months. This suggests that while prices remain high, they may be leveling off as inventory increases.

Looking ahead, real estate professionals anticipate a strong spring and summer market as buyers adjust to mortgage rates ranging from 5% to 7%. However, economic factors and potential shifts in interest rates could influence market conditions further.

Overall, Wake County’s housing market is showing signs of greater balance, with more inventory giving buyers breathing room and prices stabilizing after years of rapid growth.

🎶 Six Sundays in Spring Concert Series Returns! 🎶

Get ready for an unforgettable season of live music! The Town of Wake Forest, in partnership with ARTS Wake Forest, is excited to present the annual Six Sundays in Spring concert series.

📅 Kicking off April 27, these free outdoor concerts will be held every Sunday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. through June 1 at Joyner Park. The series will open with an electrifying performance by the British Invaders Band!

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for a perfect spring evening of music and community fun. See you there! 🎸🎤🌳

2025 Wake County Easter Egg Hunts

🥚🌸 Easter Egg Hunts in Wake County 2025! 🌸🥚

Looking for some egg-citing Easter fun? 🐰💐 Here’s a list of the best egg hunts happening in Wake County! Grab your baskets and get ready to hunt! 🎉🐣

🐰🥕 Easter Eggstravaganza

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 5 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: E. Carroll Joyner Park, Wake Forest, NC
🎟️ Details: Walk the Bunny Trail to collect eggs, enjoy crafts, and snap a pic with the Easter Bunny! 🥚📸 Special area available for children with disabilities.

🐣🥚 Egg Rush

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Rolesville Middle School, Rolesville, NC
🎟️ Details: A free community egg hunt for all ages! Arrive early for parking and a great spot! 🚗🐇

🏛️🎨 Mordecai Historic Park Egg Hunt

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh, NC
🎟️ Details: Egg hunts start at 11:00 AM for different age groups! Crafts and games included. 🧺🎈 No registration required!

🌳🐥 Kiwanis Park Egg Hunt

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Kiwanis Park, Raleigh, NC
🎟️ Details: Kids 0-12 can enjoy a classic egg hunt, plus crafts and games! Bring your own basket! 🧺🎨

🎉🐰 The Great Eggstravaganza

📅 Date & Time: Friday, April 11 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Brier Creek Community Center, Raleigh, NC
🎟️ Details: Indoor event with arts, crafts, games, and goodie bags! Easter Bunny photos available. 📸🐣

🏃‍♂️🥚 Fuquay-Varina Easter Egg Hunt

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Fleming Loop Park, Fuquay-Varina, NC
🎟️ Details: Hunt for kids 10 & under! Arrive early for parking & meet the Easter Bunny! 🚗🐇

🌳🥚 Zebulon Easter Egg Hunt

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Zebulon Community Park, Zebulon, NC
🎟️ Details: Games, arts & crafts, and an inclusive egg hunt on the basketball courts! 🎨🏀

🌸🌼 Spring Eggstravaganza

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 12 | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Location: Lake Benson Park, Garner, NC
🎟️ Details: Free event with games, crafts, music, and food trucks! 🥚🐰 No pets allowed.

🏈🥚 Clayton Easter Egg Hunt

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, April 19 | 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Clayton High School, Clayton, NC
🎟️ Details: 12,000 eggs waiting to be found on the football field! 🏈🥚 Don’t miss out!

👶🐣 The Hoppiest Egg Hunt Ever!

📅 Date & Time: Friday, March 28 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Location: Pullen Community Center, Raleigh, NC
🎟️ Details: Special egg hunt for little ones (ages 0-5). Registration required! 🎟️🐣

🌷🥚🐰 Happy Hunting, Wake County! 🐰🥚🌷

Spring Shred Day Event

The Apex Police Department, in partnership with Citizens Assisting Police in Apex (C.A.P.A.), will host the 2025 Apex Spring Shred Day on Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m., or until shredding capacity is met.

Infrastructure Projects Move Forward as Temperatures Rise

With warmer weather creating ideal conditions for paving, the Town of Holly Springs is accelerating construction on key infrastructure projects. These include bond-funded turn lanes on N.C. 55 and Main Street, as well as new sidewalk construction along Avent Ferry Road.

‘Cover the Cruiser’ Fundraiser

The Wake Forest Police Department will host a “Cover the Cruiser” event on March 14-15 to support Special Olympics North Carolina. Residents are encouraged to join the effort at Sam’s Club during event hours.

New Assistant Town Manager Announced

Steven Pearson has been appointed as the Assistant Town Manager for Rolesville. Town Manager Eric Marsh expressed confidence that Pearson’s experience and leadership will play a vital role in supporting the town’s continued growth.

Couple Found Deceased in Home

Authorities are investigating after a couple was found dead inside their home in a residential neighborhood in Garner. Family members discovered the bodies and contacted police. Investigators have not yet released the cause of death but are working to determine what happened.

Firefighter and Driver Injured in Fire Truck Crash

A fire truck responding to an emergency call was struck by another vehicle at the intersection of First Avenue and Knightdale Boulevard. The collision injured both a firefighter and the driver of the other vehicle, who were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.

Two Arrested for Attempted Murder and Kidnapping

Two individuals were arrested in Zebulon after allegedly attacking a woman with a machete and holding her hostage for ransom at a residence on Barbee Street. Acting on a tip, police rescued the victim, who sustained severe injuries but is expected to recover. The suspects have been charged with attempted murder, kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon.

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

Local Drop-Off Locations For Non-Parishables.

Bean & Barrel Coffee Lounge

A Speakeasy-Inspired Haven in Cary

Tucked away at 2045 Creekside Landing Drive in Cary, North Carolina, Bean & Barrel Coffee Lounge is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a hidden gem where quality meets character. Run by a dedicated husband-and-wife team, this cozy spot blends the artistry of small-batch coffee roasting with a speakeasy-inspired flair, earning it a devoted following among Cary locals. Since opening its doors, Bean & Barrel has carved out a niche as a place where every sip tells a story, and every visit feels like stepping into a well-kept secret.

The heart of Bean & Barrel lies in its founders—a husband-and-wife duo whose passion for coffee and community shines through in every detail. While their names aren’t plastered across the signage, their presence is felt in the warm greetings and meticulous care they pour into their craft. The couple roasts their own beans on-site, sourcing from small farms in regions like Costa Rica and Kenya. “We’re not about mass production,” they’ve been quoted saying in a local feature. “It’s about finding the perfect roast for each bean and sharing that with our neighbors.”

The speakeasy vibe sets Bean & Barrel apart from typical coffee shops. Dim lighting, exposed brick, and vintage furniture create an ambiance that’s equal parts cozy and mysterious—like stumbling into a Prohibition-era hideout. A chalkboard menu hangs above the counter, scribbled with daily specials, while jazz or soft blues hums in the background. It’s a place that invites you to linger, whether you’re sipping solo or catching up with friends.

Bean & Barrel’s drink menu is a testament to their focus on quality over quantity. While they offer classic espresso drinks and pour-overs, their specialties are where the magic happens:

• The Bootlegger’s Brew: A signature espresso drink infused with house-made caramel syrup and a hint of smoked sea salt. Served with a swirl of whipped cream, it’s a nod to the speakeasy theme—rich, bold, and a little rebellious.

• Barrel-Aged Cold Brew: A standout offering, this cold brew is aged in small oak barrels for a smooth, woody finish. It’s lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla, making it a refreshing yet complex treat, especially in Cary’s warm months.

• Lavender Moon Latte: A floral twist on the traditional latte, blending espresso with steamed oat milk and a delicate lavender infusion. It’s subtly sweet and soothing, a favorite among regulars looking for something unique.

Each drink is made to order, with the baristas—often the owners themselves—taking time to perfect the pour. They roast their beans weekly, ensuring freshness that shines through in every cup.

The pastry case at Bean & Barrel is small but mighty, stocked with treats that complement their coffee without stealing the show. Baked fresh by a nearby Cary artisan (rumored to be a friend of the owners), the offerings rotate but often include:

• Bourbon Pecan Scones: Crumbly and nutty with a whisper of bourbon glaze, these pair perfectly with the Barrel-Aged Cold Brew. The pecans are sourced from North Carolina farms, adding a local touch.

• Speakeasy Cinnamon Rolls: Miniature rolls with a gooey cinnamon center and a light cream cheese frosting. They’re bite-sized but packed with flavor, designed for a quick indulgence.

• Almond Croissants: Flaky, buttery, and dusted with powdered sugar, these are a classic done right. The subtle almond paste inside keeps them from being overly sweet, balancing the robust coffee menu.

The emphasis here is on freshness and simplicity—nothing over-the-top, just honest baked goods that enhance the experience.

Beyond the drinks and pastries, Bean & Barrel’s charm lies in its personality. The speakeasy aesthetic isn’t just for show—it’s a reflection of the owners’ desire to create a space that feels intimate and exclusive, even in a growing town like Cary. The husband-and-wife team often work the counter themselves, chatting with customers about roast profiles or the latest jazz vinyl spinning on their turntable. It’s not uncommon to see them tweaking the roaster in the back, a hands-on approach that keeps quality front and center.

The shop has cultivated a loyal following, with regulars praising the consistency and warmth. One X post from early March 2025 gushed, “Bean & Barrel’s cold brew is unreal—best spot in Cary for a chill coffee break.” Another called it “a little slice of cool in the suburbs.” The lounge hosts occasional events, like acoustic nights or coffee-tasting workshops, further rooting it in the community.

Located near Creekside Landing, it’s a bit off the beaten path, which only adds to its allure. For those who find it, Bean & Barrel offers a rare blend of craftsmanship and character—a mom-and-pop operation that feels like a secret worth sharing.

At 2045 Creekside Landing Drive, Bean & Barrel Coffee Lounge stands as a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose. It’s not the flashiest spot in Cary, nor the biggest, but that’s exactly why it shines. For coffee lovers seeking quality, a unique vibe, and a taste of local soul, Bean & Barrel is a destination worth seeking out. As the owners might say, “Come for the coffee, stay for the story.”

2045 Creekside Landing Dr, Cary, NC 27523

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