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Welcome to the Wednesday Wink!
In this week's installment, we provide an HVAC update, spotlight Sushma Sharma, offer extensive information about RecDesk (our new registration system), invite you to Wednesday Bingo, Tuesday Karaoke, and Acoustic Jam, share "News You Can Use" & more!
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In the words of the late, great Tom Petty, "The waiting is the hardest part."
We ordered a new compressor for the HVAC system in mid-October. Now, over a month later, we still haven’t received it.
As soon as it comes in, the technicians will install it, but right now we’re at the mercy of the manufacturer. We have repeatedly requested updates on when it will ship, and they keep pushing it out one day at a time.
To help offset colder temperatures, our Facilities team placed space heaters throughout the building.
We're sorry for the inconvenience and eager to get this matter resolved.
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We’re moving to a new registration system, RecDesk!
RecDesk makes it easier to browse programs, sign up online, and manage your account all in one place.
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January-March 2026 programs will be available on RecDesk by Monday, Nov. 24.
- Registration for January-March 2026 programs opens Monday, Dec. 1, at 8 a.m. for Wake Forest residents (must reside within Town limits and pay Town taxes).
- Non-Wake Forest residents may register for classes starting Thursday, Dec. 4, at 8 a.m.
Create a FREE RecDesk Account at wakeforestnc.recdesk.com/
AND
For those of you that already have a RecDesk account, be sure to add the WFCAA FREE membership.
Use our Address Look Up Map to determine if you live in Wake Forest or it's ETJ.
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RecDesk Steps to Success
Step 1
Create a FREE RecDesk Account at wakeforestnc.recdesk.com/
OR
Add the WFCAA FREE membership onto your pre-existing RecDesk Account
Step 2
Visit the front desk at the WFCAA to pick up your FREE physical RecCard. This will replace your current PRCR Rec RecCard - if you have one. You can use the WFCAA card to check in at all Town facilities, including Joyner Park Community Center.
Step 3
Beginning Monday, Nov. 24, you can "view only" programs for January-March 2026 on your RecDesk Account.
Step 4
Beginning Monday, Dec. 1, at 8 a.m., Wake Forest residents will be able to register for programs scheduled between January-March 2026 via your RecDesk Account.
OR
Beginning Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 8 a.m. non-Wake Forest residents will be able to register for programs for January-March 2026 via your RecDesk Account.
Step 5
Beginning Thursday, Jan. 1, you will come into the WFCAA, scan your WFCAA key tag, and check in for programs!
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WFCAA RecDesk FAQs
Can I sign up for a RecDesk account before December 1?
Yes! Visit this site to create a RecDesk account. That’s step one.
How do I get my RecCard?
You can come into the center to pick up your WFCAA RecCard any time after your account is registered! You only need the RecCard to check in, not to sign up.
Can I use my Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) “green” RecCard?
No. The WFCAA will have its own RecCard that will be required to check in for the center specific programs.
I live in Wake Forest can I register for classes on December 1?
Only people living within the town limits (i.e. who pay Town of Wake Forest taxes) will be able to register for classes on December 1 at 8 am. RecDesk will automatically determine your address when you create your account.
What if my class is full before I can register?
We are working on getting more class opportunities and instructors in place! We will also have a waitlist for classes with the new system!
Will there be a waitlist for classes?
Yes! There will now be a waitlist option for all classes and programs. If there is a cancellation or seats open, WFCAA staff will begin at the top of the waitlist and contact that person about the opening seat. Then proceed down the list as needed.
Why is there a 3-day waiting period for non-residents?
This policy is in line with PRCR programs. This gives taxpayers a small benefit as their tax dollars pay for the building.
I don’t have a computer, is someone able to help me sign up?
Yes! You can see Zoe or Jacob on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3-4 pm to help get you registered onto RecDesk and the front desk staff to help get you registered in programs if needed.
I have a credit on my RecDesk account from PRCR. Can I use that for WFCAA programs?
Yes! You will be allowed to use any previous credit to help pay for classes at WFCAA.
I don’t have an email or a smart phone. How do I create a RecDesk account?
Visit the front desk and notify staff. We will have you complete a paper application if you don’t have one on file already and help create an account.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes! Our refund policy is provided below and on the WFCAA web page. This policy is also in line with the PRCR Department to ensure everything is consistent and fair for everyone.
Class fees are 100% refundable when the class is cancelled by the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging. Anyone withdrawing from a class that has not been cancelled by the WFCAA must request a refund, in writing, at least 10 business days in advance of the scheduled start of the class. Refunds will not be given for withdrawals made less than the five working day period other than for verified medical/hardship cases.
Do I have to join PRCR before I sign up for the WFCAA?
No. You do not need to go to a PRCR facility to sign up/join before participating at the WFCAA. Our gray RecCard will replace your current green PRCR RecCard. You can use your gray RecCard ONLY if you have a membership with PRCR.
How much is a RecCard at the WFCAA?
Your first RecCard is FREE! However, if you lose your card, it will cost $5 to replace it. We recommend taking a picture of your card barcode so you can still sign in, even if you lose it.
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Need help with RecDesk?
Stop by the WFCAA on Tuesday, Dec. 9, or Thursday, Dec. 11, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for in-person assistance.
You can also view our RecDesk tutorial video series.
Get ready for a smoother, faster way to stay active and connected!
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Sushma Sharma
Wake Forest, NC
How long have you been a member of the WFCAA?
I became a member in September 2024.
Why did you become a member of the WFCAA?
WFCAA offers a variety of activities and events in a socially friendly setting. I moved to beautiful Wake Forest in 2024 and joining WFCAA added to a very pleasant transition.
What is your favorite class or activity?
Ageless Movement. As we age, mobility and being physically independent becomes even more imperative. This class ensures that we remain active.
Who is your favorite staff member, volunteer or instructor and why?
Max Tymofii is the instructor for the Ageless Movement class. He is enthusiastic and engaging. His selection of exercises seem science based. I appreciate his holistic approach to health and wellness.
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Join us for Wednesday Bingo!
Join us for FREE drop-in bingo games every Wednesday from noon-1:30 p.m.!
This program is first come, first serve, members only, no registration required.
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Join us for Tuesday Karaoke!
Join us for Tuesday Karaoke every Tuesday from 1-2 p.m. This FREE program is first come, first serve, members only, no registration required.
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Acoustic Jam
Second & Fourth Thursday/Month | 2-4 pm
Hosted by Steve Pfanenstiel, Acoustic Jam is open to all ages and skill levels.
Traditional, Folk, Bluegrass, Country, Rock and Pop music welcome.
All musical instruments are also welcome (guitar, ukulele, voice, banjo, violin, mandolin etc.)
Bring your own instruments, sing along, or just listen!
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Mayor’s Roundtable to host Open Forum for WFCAA members December 3
On October 27 Mayor Vivian Jones announced the creation of the Mayor’s Roundtable to serve as a liaison between the Town of Wake Forest and the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging (WFCAA). In addition to Mayor Jones, members of the roundtable include Commissioner Faith Cross, Ann Welton, Maria Bolanz, Buddy Glenn, Diana Turner, and Joe Grimm.
After meeting on separate occasions to discuss the results of the recent member survey and review concerns expressed by WFCAA members, the Mayor’s Roundtable has announced it will host an Open Forum at the WFCAA, 235 E. Holding Ave., on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 1:30 p.m.
Topics to be addressed during the forum include the new registration system (RecDesk) and registration periods, issuance of Rec Cards, current HVAC issues, efforts to expand programming opportunities, instructor insurance requirements, class fees, staff turnover, and more.
All WFCAA members are invited to attend. Any WFCAA member who has questions or concerns about other issues they want addressed is encouraged to submit their item(s) in advance via the WFCAA Contact Us Form. The deadline to submit questions/concerns is 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1.
In addition to Mayor’s Roundtable members, Town staff representing several Town departments will be on hand to answer questions and respond to expressed concerns.
Please Note: Our December 3 Open Forum is designed to facilitate respectful, calm, and productive conversation. Let’s all help make that goal a reality by listening without interrupting, speaking politely, and avoiding personal attacks.
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Seated Power Up with Activator Poles Demos
Wednesdays | Dec 3 & Dec 10 | 1-2 pm
Activator Poles are exercise tools that allow more muscles to be "activated" during physical activity. You might think of them as walking poles but Kristina will instruct you in how to benefit from the specialty core grip on the Activator poles so that you can burn more calories and build more strength even when you're sitting down.
The Power Up class will involve some walking and standing but will mostly be performed in a seated position. Performed to upbeat music, we will get our heart rate up and be breathing a little quicker but will have plenty of breaks.
Each class will incorporate a warm up and stretching. This class is a great place to start if you have never tried Activator Poles, or if you have difficulty performing activity safely in standing.
Please register in advance for one of the dates (December 3 or December 10) to secure your spot.
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More Muscles with Activator Poles Demos
Wednesdays | Dec 3 & Dec 10 | 2-3 pm
Activator Poles(TM) by Urban Poling Inc. are designed to amplify the walk or exercise you are doing by activating more muscles and burning more calories. In fact, research shows that when utilized to their full potential, up to 90% of the muscles in our bodies are activated using their core grip handle.
More Muscles with Activator Poles is a moderate-intensity workout set to fast-paced music in order to elevate your heart rate and get you breathing a little faster. The physical activity involved focuses on functional and core strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. Walking will be performed intermittently during class and water breaks will be provided.
Each class will have a warm up and stretching section.
Intensity Level
Moderate. Elevates the heart rate and quickens breathing because it demands a noticeable yet manageable effort.
Requirements
- ability to stand for 45 minutes
- low risk for falls and no recent fall incidents
Duration
Typically 45 minutes of movement (e.g., standing, walking, squatting, reaching, …) calling for moderate flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance.
At Your Own Risk
By registering and/or participating in this class, you accept full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damage, known or unknown, that you might incur due to participation. If you do not want to accept full responsibility, do not register or participate.
Please register in advance for one of the dates (December 3 or December 10) to secure your spot.
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Dear Members,
We have some exciting news to share about important upgrades underway at the WFCAA.
In August, our Facilities team initiated a renovation project that upon completion will – among other things - add workspace for our employees and volunteers and introduce more comfortable furniture in the SHIIP and pharmacist consultation room.
Scheduled for completion in December, the initiative will also convert the former body shop to private offices, rearrange our workout equipment throughout the facility to encourage greater use, and install mobile partitions as a means of offering privacy to members who wish to utilize the equipment.
As our renovations continue, these and other improvements will become more noticeable, including quieter hand dryers in our restrooms.
Our Facilities team has been performing most of the disruptive (loud) work on weekends, so as not to disturb our programs and classes. Such efforts will continue, but you may notice some painting work performed during normal operating hours.
We will provide updates on the progress of our renovation in each week’s edition of Wednesday Wink.
In the meantime, thank you for your patience and please email Monica if you have any questions.
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Tickets still available for two Malpass Brothers concerts on Nov 21
Back by popular demand, the Malpass Brothers will perform two shows at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre (RC), 405 S. Brooks St., on Friday, Nov. 21, taking the stage at 2 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are on sale for these performances with reserved seats available for $35 plus tax. Tickets can be purchased online, in person at the RC Box Office, or by calling 919-435-9458. These performances are expected to sell out, so anyone interested in attending is encouraged to purchase their tickets now.
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Town offices closed Nov 27-28 for Thanksgiving, trash & recycling collection affected
The Wake Forest Town Hall and other administrative offices will be closed Thursday-Friday, Nov. 27-28, for Thanksgiving. Police and fire services will not be interrupted, but other Town operations will be affected, including trash and recycling collection.
During the week of November 24, the collection of trash and recycling will change as follows: Thursday’s route will be collected Friday, Nov. 28, and Friday’s route will be collected Saturday, Nov. 29.
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Turkey Drive Drop-off is Saturday at WFPD Taylor Street Substation, Turkey Giveaway is Monday at Tri-Area Ministry
The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) will accept donations of frozen turkeys Saturday, Nov. 22, from 9 a.m.-noon, as part of this year’s Turkey Drive. Police officers will be available at the Police Department Substation, 225 S. Taylor St., throughout the morning to thank donors and unload the turkeys.
Officers will also accept monetary donations and gift cards throughout the morning which will be used to purchase additional turkeys. Checks should be written to the Wake Forest Police Department. The police department is also accepting online donations through midnight Saturday, Nov. 22.
Police officers and staff will distribute the turkeys while they last on Monday, Nov. 24, from 7-9:30 a.m., at the Tri-Area Ministry Food Pantry, 149 E. Holding Ave.
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Wake Forest Police Department BBQ Fundraiser is Saturday
The Wake Forest Police Department will host a BBQ Fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 11 a.m.- 2pm. in the Town Hall visitor parking lot, 301 S. Brooks St. BBQ plates are $20 each and will include generous portions of BBQ, baked beans, and mac and cheese prepared by Oak & Ember Barbecue. No beverages will be provided.
Online orders will be accepted through 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21. Only available while supplies last, orders will also be accepted on the day of the event. Everyone who orders in advance is encouraged to present their receipt at time of pick-up.
BBQ Fundraiser proceeds will be used to support the WFPD’s participation in the Staccato National SWAT Championship and purchase needed gear.
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Volunteer as Santa or a Santa’s Helper during “Calls from Santa” Thursday, Dec 4 | 5:30-7:30 pm
Wake Forest Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St.
The holiday season is right around the corner, and we’re looking for a few jolly volunteers to help spread cheer during the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department's annual "Calls from Santa" event.
We need volunteers to play Santa and Santa’s Helpers to make phone calls to local children who have signed up for a call from the North Pole!
Don’t worry - scripts will be provided, so there’s no pressure to improvise. Just bring your best holiday spirit, warm voice, and a little laughter to help make this a magical evening for our youngest residents. Refreshments will also be provided.
If you’d like to be part of this fun tradition, please contact Casey Weidner at 919-435-9555.
Thank you for helping us keep the holiday magic alive in Wake Forest!
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Tickets on sale for Renaissance Centre’s “Celtic Angels Christmas” Dec 12-13
The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts will present four performances of “Celtic Angels Christmas” Friday-Saturday, Dec. 12-13. Showtimes on both days are 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The Renaissance Centre will provide tiered seating for these performances with tickets ranging from $40-45 plus tax. Tickets can be purchased online with a Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover credit card.
Tickets may also be purchased with cash, check, or credit card at the Renaissance Centre Box Office, 405 S. Brooks St. These performances are expected to sell out, so anyone interested in attending is encouraged to purchase their tickets now.
Captivating audiences of all ages with the magic of the season, Celtics Angels Christmas is a joyous celebration from start to finish, encompassing vocal and instrumental holiday and Irish favorites. Paired with show-stopping world class champion Irish dancing and a fully live band, this show is sure to awe and entertain.
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Tech Assistance Program
The WFCAA offers free technology assistance.
Act now to book an hour-long appointment with one of our student volunteers to obtain invaluable assistance with your smartphone, computer, or tablet.
To make an appointment, call 919-554-4111. Current offerings are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3-5 p.m.
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You have received this e-mail because you are subscribed to E-Notifier – part of the Town of Wake Forest’s e-mail subscription service. E-Notifier keeps you up-to-date on Town of Wake Forest news, information, and special events. If you believe you have been subscribed in error, or would like to cancel your subscription, you may unsubscribe below.
If you have questions or comments about the Town of Wake Forest website or E-Notifier, please contact Bill Crabtree by email or call 919-435-9421.
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