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Mental Wellness Fair on Sept 26 to focus on youth mental health
The Town of Wake Forest and several community partners will host the Fourth Annual Wake Forest Mental Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 1-4 p.m., at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St.
Led by Commissioner Nick Sliwinski, the fair is designed to raise awareness about mental wellness and provide information on community programs, services, and resources available to loved ones who may be navigating untreated or undertreated mental illness. Offering activities for children and teens, the event will also provide information for families, seniors, and veterans.
This year’s theme will place a special focus on youth mental health, with the Wake County Youth Health Council participating in both the main panel discussion and an interactive breakout session. The panel is titled "Plugged In: Conversation about Kids, Technology & Mental Health." The breakout sessions feature a teen led session for teens about "Social Media Burnout" and information about a new initiative "Well Check Wednesday."
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Gwen Jeffries is this year’s Good Neighbor of the Year
The Wake Forest Human Relations Council (HRC) is pleased to announce that Gwen Jeffries (photo attached) is Wake Forest’s 2026 Good Neighbor of the Year. Mayor Ben Clapsaddle announced Jeffries as this year’s winner during Saturday’s Good Neighbor Day celebration at E. Carroll Joyner Park.
In his nomination narrative, Steven Sticklin acknowledged Jeffries as “a beautiful soul” and “incredible neighbor” and highlighted her tireless efforts delivering meals to seniors in the Northeast Community.
“For over six years, twice a week, Gwen Jeffries has delivered meals to 26 households of elders in our community who are unable to get to Hope House or Olive Branch for Wake Forest Community Table's food distribution. A beloved member of the Northeast Community, Gwen cares deeply about nourishing her neighbors in body, mind, and spirit - and her dedication inspires everyone who takes part in our program."
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Renaissance Centre to host 2026 Candidates Forum Sept 23
The Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Town of Wake Forest, invites residents, business leaders, and members of the community to attend the 2026 Candidates Forum, a nonpartisan community event, on Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 5:45 p.m. at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St.
The Candidates Forum provides an opportunity for the community to hear directly from candidates seeking to represent Wake Forest and the surrounding region. Attendees will gain insight into the candidates’ priorities, perspectives, and positions on issues impacting our community and region.
Candidates from the following races are scheduled to participate:
- Wake County Board of Education – District 1
- District Court – District 10A
- North Carolina House – District 35
- North Carolina House – District 66
- North Carolina Senate – District 18
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Diwali Festival returns to Joyner Park Oct 3
The PRCR Department will host its third annual Diwali Festival on Saturday, Oct. 3, from noon-3 p.m. at E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road.
Free and open to everyone, the Diwali Festival will feature enchanting music, vibrant dance performances, hands-on arts and crafts activities, a cricket demonstration, board games, and a henna tattoo artist. Several food and dessert trucks will also be onsite throughout the afternoon.
Prior to the start of the afternoon’s festivities, take a few minutes to slow down, breathe, stretch, and reconnect with yourself during a special Yoga Session from 11-11:45 a.m. at the Joyner Park Amphitheater. No prior yoga experience is required! Whether you’re new to yoga or have an established practice, everyone is welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle.
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This week's Traffic Alerts
Forestville Road & Rogers Branch Road
Thru mid-Oct | 9 am-4 pm daily
Big R Associates, a contractor working at Wheat Field II, will reduce to one lane with intermittent two-way traffic the portion of Forestville Road from Rogers Branch Road to McDonald’s and a portion of Rogers Branch Road between Forestville Road and Rogers Road. The lane closures are necessary to widen Forestville Road and Rogers Branch Road. Signage and flaggers will be in place to manage traffic flow and safely direct motorists through the work area. Delays are expected, so motorists may wish to avoid the area and take an alternate route.
Rogers Road
Thru Sept 25 | 9 pm-6 am
During the week of September 21, work to relocate utilities in advance of the NCDOT’s Rogers Road Grade Separation Project will require overnight lane closures along Rogers Road. From 9 p.m.-6 a.m. Monday-Friday, Sept. 21-25, Enbridge crews will reduce one or more lanes along Rogers Road in the vicinity of Capital Creek, so crews can install a new gas line. The initiative has been scheduled overnight to reduce the impact on travelers and make the work safer for crews. Cones and signage will be in place to manage traffic flow and safely direct motorists through the work area. Delays are expected, so motorists may wish to avoid the area and take an alternate route.
South Main Street/US 1A
Thru Sept 25 | 7 pm-5 am
Park Construction of NC, a contractor working on the Wake Forest Water Main Replacement & Repair Project, will reduce to one lane with intermittent two-way traffic a portion of South Main Street/US 1A in the vicinity of the Liberty Street/Forestville Road intersection Sunday-Friday, Sept. 20-25, from 7 p.m.-5 a.m. each evening. The temporary closure is necessary to allow crews to tie in a water main along the 1200 block of South Main Street.
Flaggers and signage will be in place to safely direct motorists through the work area. Delays are expected, so motorists may wish to avoid the area if possible and take an alternate route.
Marshall Farm Street
Thru Sept 25 | 8 am-3 pm daily
Town crews will install traffic calming measures along the portion of Marshall Farm Street from Chalk Road to Rogers Road as part of a Traffic Calming Pilot Project. The initiative will allow the Town to evaluate several different traffic calming measures and their effects on vehicle speeds and traffic operations.
West Owen Avenue/South College Street
Thru Sept 25 | 7 am-7 pm daily
Sunrock Industries, LLC, will initiate a paving project along the following streets as part of the 2026 Road Resurfacing Project: West Owen Avenue - South Main Street/US 1A to South College Street; South College Street - South Avenue to West Owen Avenue. The initiative will involve full depth patching, roadway repairs, and repaving. A signed detour will be in place directing motorists around the work areas. Delays are expected, so motorists may wish to avoid these areas if possible and take an alternate route.
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2026 Police Department Turkey Drive is underway
The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is accepting monetary donations through Saturday, Nov. 21, as part of its 20th Annual Turkey Drive. Area residents can support this worthy cause by submitting online donations.
Cash and checks written to the Wake Forest Police Department are also accepted. Anyone wishing to contribute cash or check to this year’s Turkey Drive should contact Sgt. J. McArthur. All monetary donations will be used to purchase additional turkeys.
On Saturday, Nov. 21, the Police Department will accept monetary donations and donations of frozen turkeys at the WFPD Substation, 225 S. Taylor St., from 9 a.m. until noon.
Police officers and staff will then distribute the turkeys while they last on Monday, Nov. 23, from 7-9:30 a.m., at the Tri-Area Ministry Food Pantry, 149 E. Holding Ave.
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Wake Forest Community House & Holding Park Inclusive Playground closed Sept 21-25
During the week of September 21, the Wake Forest Community House and Holding Park Inclusive Playground, both located at 133 W. Owen Ave., will be closed. The Community House will be closed due to road construction scheduled along West Owen Avenue, while the playground will be closed for maintenance and landscaping.
During the park’s temporary closure, Parks, Recreation & Cultura Resources crews will perform general maintenance on the playground equipment, while crews from Clear Wood, Inc. will remove the kudzu along the hill adjacent to the Holding Park Aquatic Center. As part of this effort, crews will grind up the kudzu vines, remove fallen trees and branches, and clear away undergrowth.
Signage and barricades will be posted to inform the public of the closure. For more information, email Parks & Recreation Maintenance Manager Randy Hoyle.
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Flaherty Park Community Center to offer limited indoor walking schedule Oct 8-Nov 2
Beginning Thursday, Oct. 8, and continuing through Monday, Nov. 2, Flaherty Park Community Center (FPCC), 1226 N. White St., will offer indoor walking opportunities for RecCard holders on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from noon-2 p.m.
The initiative is designed to lessen the impact of the Joyner Park Community Center (JPCC) walking track and gym closures during this year’s early voting.
JPCC, 701 Harris Road, will serve as one of 18 early voting sites in Wake County October 15-31. During this period, any eligible Wake County voter may vote at the JPCC or any other Wake County Early Voting location.
Individual voting enclosures will be erected inside the JPCC gymnasium for Wake County voters wishing to cast their ballot ahead of the November 3 General Election. To accommodate the early voting period and allow sufficient time to set up and breakdown the voting enclosures and other related equipment, the JPCC gym and walking track will be closed from Thursday, Oct. 8, through Monday, Nov. 2.
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Rules for political signs explained
The Town of Wake Forest often receives inquiries from residents and candidates concerning rules for political signs. Although temporary political signs advertising candidates or issues are permitted, a combination of state law and municipal code regulates how political signs may be displayed within Wake Forest.
To ensure these conditions are met, adherence is required to the following regulations establishing the duration, size, placement, and illumination of political signs.
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Wake Forest Downtown & Public Art Commission issue Downtown Boulevard Banner “Call for Artists”
Wake Forest Downtown (WFD), Inc. and the Wake Forest Public Art Commission (PAC) are seeking local artists to submit vibrant original artwork for “Community in Motion” boulevard banners in downtown Wake Forest.
“Community in Motion” celebrates the energy, creativity, and connections that make Wake Forest a vibrant place to live, work, and gather. Artists are encouraged to explore how people, nature, and ideas move together to shape and strengthen the community. Designs should evoke a sense of vitality, collaboration, and forward movement while offering a unique artistic interpretation.
The online artwork submission form is available through Friday, Oct. 30. Selected artists will be notified by Monday, Nov. 16.
Selections will be chosen by a committee comprised of members of the PAC and WFD, Inc. and selected artists will receive a $100 honorarium.
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Town seeks feedback on goals for new Urban Forest Management Plan at Sept 22 (virtual) community meeting
The Town of Wake Forest is in the process of creating a new Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP). By assessing the condition of the 21,000 public trees shading Wake Forest’s streets and parks by analyzing on-the-ground inventory and big-picture tree canopy data, the new UFMP will provide a roadmap for managing the community's public trees over the next decade and beyond.
Community input is the cornerstone of this initiative aimed at encouraging community members and Town staff to develop a shared vision for the future of Wake Forest’s trees. The UFMP will then lay out the goals and actions needed to reach that vision. The Town’s last UFMP was developed in 2013, so the current planning effort will provide important updates on how Wake Forest’s urban forest has evolved over the last 13 years.
The Town will host a virtual Community Workshop on Tuesday, Sept. 22, from 6-7:15 p.m. to review the results of the recent community survey and solicit public input on the goals of the new UFMP. Preregistration is encouraged but not required.
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PRCR partnering with FUNGO to offer Off-Season Development Program for youth baseball & softball players
The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department is partnering with Wake Forest FUNGO to offer an off-season development program for baseball and softball players (boys and girls, respectively) ages 7-16.
Led by FUNGO's professional staff, the Winter Off-Season Development Program is designed for baseball and softball athletes who want to stay active, sharpen their skills, and continue developing during the off-season. Athletes will work with professional instructors through structured drills and activities focused on skill development, athleticism, confidence, and overall performance.
Program participants will meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, Nov. 17-Jan. 21, at Heritage High Park, 1150 Forestville Road. Participants ages 7-11 will assemble from 6-7:30 p.m., while ages 12-16 will meet from 7:30-9 p.m. Please note: No sessions will be scheduled on November 26 or December 24-31 due to the holidays. Make-up sessions may be scheduled on Saturdays during the program or added in late January through early February if needed.
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Tickets on sale for Firebox Theatre’s “Misery” Oct 2-4
Firebox Theatre Company will present four performances of the Stephen King classic “Misery” Friday-Sunday, Oct. 2-4, at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3; and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 4.
Firebox Theatre will bring “Misery” to life in a gripping stage adaptation that promises intensity and intimacy in equal measure. The story follows a famous novelist who is rescued from a car accident by his self-proclaimed “number one fan,” only to discover that her devotion quickly turns into something far more dangerous.
This production marks the first time Firebox Theatre’s founders will share the stage together, adding an extra layer of excitement for longtime supporters. Cautions: Intense adult themes, strong language, and violence. Prop firearms, fake blood, and strobe effects will be used in this production.
Ticket prices start at $25.
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“Spirits of Wake Forest” ghost walks return to Downtown Wake Forest Oct 1-30, tickets on sale
If you’re looking for a “hauntingly” good time this fall, then don’t miss the “Spirits of Wake Forest” ghost walk in Downtown Wake Forest. Presented by Wake Forest Downtown (WFD), Inc., in partnership with Firebox Theatre Company, these walking tours will be offered on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, October 1-30, according to the following schedule:
- Thursdays & Fridays - 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.
- Saturdays - 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.
Downtown Wake Forest’s buildings and sidewalks have seen well over 100 years of history, and they have some eerie stories to tell! Join WFD, Inc. and Firebox Theatre Company’s incredible cast of storytellers to learn about the tragic train wrecks, frightening folklore, and restless spirits that make up just a small piece of Downtown’s haunted history.
Tickets are $20 each and must be purchased in advance. Tickets sell out fast, so mark your calendars for this date and time! Please note: Tickets are non-refundable/non-transferable. Tours will take place rain or shine. Tours are recommended for ages 8 and up, but younger children are welcome at their parents’ discretion. Any attendees under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult. As much as we love your furry family members, we respectfully ask that you please leave your pets at home.
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Tickets on sale for two performances of Diggery’s Dino Adventure Oct 10
The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St., will present performances of “Diggery’s Dino Adventure” on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
While presenting his remarkable dinosaur fossil collection to a live audience, Paleontologist Diggery accidentally activates the DinoSauroScope 3000 - sending everyone hurtling back in time for an unforgettable, up-close encounter with living dinosaurs.
Featuring enormous interactive puppets, music, magic, and realistic replica dino bones, this high-energy adventure is packed with thrills. Join Diggery on a rock-and-roaring prehistoric journey to help save the human race!
Tickets start at $15 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and under.
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GFiber installations scheduled for week of Sept 21
During the week of September 21, from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. daily (unless otherwise noted), ITS contractors will install GFiber (formerly Google Fiber) fiber cables along the following Wake Forest streets:
- Lemon Grass Lane
- Traditions Grande Boulevard
- Reservoir View Lane
- Heritage Club Avenue (9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
- Heritage Lake Road (9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
- Legacy Greene Avenue
- Toran Drive
- Gateway Crossing Lane
- Gateway Commons Circle
These fiber installations will often require lane reductions along portions of these streets. In such instances, signage and flaggers will be in place to manage traffic flow and safely direct motorists through the work areas. Delays may occur, so motorists may wish to avoid these areas and take an alternate route.
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Brightspeed fiber installations to continue in Heritage South through mid-September
Contractors working on behalf of Brightspeed will continue to install high-speed fiber-optic cables along the following streets in the Heritage South neighborhood through mid-September:
- Marshall Farm Street
- Orange Cosmos Avenue
- Willowgrass Lane
- Heritage View Trail
- Wild Meadow Lane
- Heritage Spring Circle
- Golden Poppy Court
- Crimson Clover Avenue
- Prairie Aster Court
- Forgotten Pond Avenue
- Desert Marigold Court
- Rose Angel Circle
- Prairie Smoke Street
- Wood Poppy Street
- Dotted Mint Avenue
- Red Trillium Court
- Little Turtle Way
- Shasta Daisy Drive
- Albino Deer Way
These fiber installations may require lane reductions along portions of these streets. In such instances, signage and flaggers will be in place to manage traffic flow and safely direct motorists through the work areas. Delays may occur, so motorists may wish to avoid these areas and take an alternate route.
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Sign up to receive NCDOT updates on Capital Boulevard North Upgrade (Raleigh to Wake Forest)
Final design and development is underway to improve traffic congestion and travel times on Capital Boulevard (US 1) between I-540 in Raleigh and Purnell/Harris Roads in Wake Forest.
The proposed project would convert the road from a four-lane, median-divided roadway with partial access control (private driveways and side streets) to a six-lane controlled-access highway with interchanges.
Controlled access means ramps at interchanges would provide entry onto the roadway, cross streets could have overpasses built over them, and private driveways would be prohibited.
The project was studied as a possible toll road from January 2024 to November 2025. That evaluation has ended and the project is proceeding as a traditional, non-tolled roadway.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2031.
To learn more and sign up to receive NCDOT email and text updates, visit the Capital Boulevard North Upgrade (Raleigh to Wake Forest) project page.
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Youth Basketball League registration continues
The Wake Forest PRCR Department is accepting online and in-person Youth Basketball League registrations for boys ages 5-17 and girls ages 5-13 according to the following schedule:
- Sept 1-7 - Wake Forest residents only
- Sept 8-30 - Wake Forest residents & non-Wake Forest residents
- Oct 1-7 - Late registration, including a $15 late fee (if league spots are still available).
Online registration is available via TeamSideline, along with team placement and draft information and league rules. Anyone without computer access is invited to register by using the computer kiosk in the lobby of Joyner Park Community Center, 701 Harris Road, or Wake Forest Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St.
The registration fee is $60 for residents who live within the Wake Forest corporate limits and $100 for anyone who lives outside the town’s corporate limits.
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Renaissance Centre & Wake Forest Pride inviting LGBTQIA+ artists to participate in October art exhibit
For the month of October, the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre will welcome Wake Forest Pride as its featured community group. The Renaissance Centre and Wake Forest Pride are inviting LGBTQIA+ artists to submit up to three original 2D and 3D artworks to be considered for the Renaissance Centre gallery.
Designed to give visual artists an opportunity to display and sell their work in a gallery setting, the exhibit will include 130 linear feet of hanging space and a medium-sized display cabinet to showcase 2D and 3D works for art.
Submitted works of art can be any medium and any subject, but due to the municipal nature of the building and the space being one for all ages, the Renaissance Centre cannot accept artwork containing nudity or explicit messaging. To learn more and/or apply, visit our website. The submission deadline is Sunday, Sept. 27.
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Wake Forest accepting advisory board applications through Sept 30
You can make a difference in our community by applying for an upcoming vacancy on a Town advisory board. The boards were established to give residents input into what happens in the community and advise the Board of Commissioners (BOC) on matters that affect citizens and their town government.
Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, Sept. 30, for appointments to the following boards and commissions:
- Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
- Human Relations Council (HRC)
- Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Advisory Board
- Planning Board
- Public Art Commission (PAC)
- Technology Advisory Board (TAB)
Area high school students (grades 9-12) are also invited to apply to serve as representatives on every board, except the Planning Board.
The online advisory board application is available through September 30. Anyone without access to a computer is invited to complete the application by using a computer kiosk in the lobby of Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St. Hard copies are available upon request by contacting Deputy Town Clerk Ella Dowtin at 919-435-9436.
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Flag-Raising Ceremonies conclude Oct 5 with service honoring Neil Michael Cronin
The Town of Wake Forest and several local veterans’ organizations will conclude this year's monthly flag-raising ceremonies in Town Hall’s Centennial Plaza on Monday, Oct. 5, at 11 a.m. The 71st Wake Forest Memorial Flag-Raising Ceremony will honor Neil Michael Cronin, who served our nation in the US Marine Corps.
Friends and members of the Cronin family have been invited to participate in the ceremony, which will include patriotic songs, special remarks, a memorial wreath laying, and the ceremonial flag-raising.
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National Night Out returns Oct 5
The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is encouraging area residents, businesses, neighborhood groups, and homeowners’ associations to show their support for police-community crime prevention partnerships by participating in Wake Forest’s National Night Out (NNO) on Monday, Oct. 5. The event is scheduled from 5-7:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Joyner Park Community Center, 701 Harris Road.
NNO promises something for everyone, including a DJ, games, food, special prize drawings, and fire, police, and EMS vehicle displays, along with a variety of booths highlighting crime prevention and safety.
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Tickets on sale for Donna Washington's "Of Blood and Bone"
The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St., will present Donna Washington's "Of Blood and Bone" on Friday, Oct. 30, at 7:30 p.m.
Just in time for Halloween and not for the faint of heart, this spine-tingling evening features bone-chilling tales from master storyteller Donna Washington. Journey into the dark, devilish, and downright terrifying corners of mortal life - and beyond.
And what’s a night of tricks without a little treat? Tickets include individually plated “death by chocolate” desserts to be enjoyed at a communal table with friends or at an intimate place setting for two.
Purposefully blood-curdling, this event is recommended only for adults and the bravest of teens.
Tickets are for reserved tables and start at $25 & $35.
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Comic Book & Toy Expo returns to Flaherty Park Community Center Nov 7
The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department is partnering with Play4Life Comics & Used Books to host a Comic Book & Toy Expo Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Flaherty Park Community Center, 1226 N. White St.
Free and open to everyone, the expo will feature dedicated vendors of your favorite pop culture nostalgia selling vintage comics, Pokémon cards, rare action figures, and more. Whether you're a collector, an aficionado, or just out on a family stroll, you will not want to miss this amazing show!
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Free Paper Shredding Event Nov 14
The Town of Wake Forest and Skylift Garage Doors will co-sponsor a drive-thru paper shredding event on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. – or until the two paper shredding trucks are full. Free and open to the public, the shred event will take place rain or shine in the parking lot of the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging, 235 E. Holding Ave.
The occasion will offer area residents and businesses the opportunity to protect themselves from identity theft and dispose of confidential documents in an environmentally responsible manner.
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Community Council seeks award nominations for exemplary volunteers
The Wake Forest Community Council (WFCC) is seeking award nominations of local individuals and organizations that have contributed exemplary volunteer efforts to our community. The submission deadline is noon on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
Since 1965, the WFCC has annually presented the Citizen of the Year, Organization of the Year (since 1977), and the Peggy Allen Lifetime Achievement Award (since 2005). Information about each of these awards, including their respective nomination forms, is available on the Town website.
Award recipients will be honored during the annual Community Christmas Dinner on Monday, Dec. 7, at The Forks Cafeteria, 339 S. Brooks St.
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Flaherty Park Pickleball Courts closed for resurfacing
On September 21, the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department closed for resurfacing the Flaherty Park Pickleball Courts, 1226 N. White St.
Over the next several weeks, North State Surfacing, a contractor working on behalf of the PRCR Department, will clean, repair cracks, and resurface all four pickleball courts. The estimated cost of this project is $26,124.
Signage is posted at the pickleball courts to notify the public of the closure. The courts are expected to reopen by mid-October.
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Singers, dancers, comedians, magicians & more invited to audition for Renaissance Centre’s “Stars of the Forest Talent Showcase”
The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St., will host auditions for its “Stars of the Forest Talent Showcase” on Saturday, Nov. 17, from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Singers, dancers, comedians, magicians, and more are invited to audition for this celebration of local talent.
The “Stars of the Forest Talent Showcase” will consist of two performances on Saturday, Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
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WFPD to host Drug Take Back Event at Wegmans Oct 24
The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is participating in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 2026 National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Wegmans, 11051 Ligon Mill Road. Weather permitting, the drop-off area will be situated just outside the Wegmans main entrance facing Dr. Calvin Jones Highway/NC 98 Bypass.
National Drug Take Back Day is a prescription medication take-back initiative that promotes proper medication disposal. By providing a safe, convenient, and responsible way for people to dispose of unwanted pills, tablets, and other medications, the event helps prevent accidental poisonings and drug abuse, while also protecting local rivers and streams. The service is free, anonymous and no questions will be asked.
Participants can help onsite personnel properly identify and sort the medications by disposing expired, unused, or unwanted medicine in their original containers with the drug labels intact. All the medications collected during the event will be secured by law enforcement and destroyed by incineration.
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PRCR Fall & Winter Program Guide now available
The 2026-27 Fall & Winter edition of RecConnect, the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) program guide, is now available online and at several Town facilities, including the Wake Forest Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St.; Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St.; Joyner Park Community Center (JPCC), 701 Harris Road; Flaherty Park Community Center (FPCC), 1226 N. White St.; Wake Forest Center for Active Aging (WFCAA), 235 E. Holding Ave.; and Alston-Massenburg Center (AMC), 416 N. Taylor St.
Check out “RecConnect” for complete details on recreational programs, events, and activities for all age groups, including preschool, youth, and adult, scheduled from September 2026 through February 2027.
Program registration is underway. Register online and in-person at JPCC, FPCC, and AMC during normal business hours. Online registration closes two business days before the start of a program. For more information, call the PRCR Department at 919-435-9560.
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Wake Forest accepting 2027 Community Special Event Applications thru Sept 30
As Wake Forest continues to grow, the number of requests the Town receives for Community Event permits also increases. This often results in two or more community groups and organizations vying for the same dates, locations, and Town resources to accommodate their respective events.
To help address this challenge, Wake Forest updated its Special Event Application Approval Process in 2024.
As part of the approval process, Wake Forest accepts Community Special Event Applications annually from July 15 through September 30 for events scheduled during the next calendar year. This year, Wake Forest is accepting Community Special Event Applications for events planned in 2027 through Wednesday, Sept. 30.
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Wake Forest Fire Department offering CPR classes for Wake Forest residents
The Wake Forest Fire Department (WFFD) offers monthly American Heart Association CPR Certification classes for Wake Forest residents at the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging, 235 E. Holding Ave. The next class with seating availability is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26.
Attendees can enroll in a four-hour or seven-hour class. In the four-hour session (9 a.m.-1 p.m.), participants learn CPR and how to correctly use an automated external defibrillator, or AED, a medical device that can help restore a normal heartbeat in certain situations. In the seven-hour class (9 a.m.-4 p.m.), participants learn CPR, how to use an AED, and basic first aid. Students who complete either session earn American Heart Association CPR Certification.
The cost for either class is $40 per person, including the cost of the workbook. Preregistration is required. Please note: Only community members with a Wake Forest address are eligible to enroll in these classes.
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Knox Homebox program gives Fire Department quicker access during emergencies
The Wake Forest Fire Department (WFFD) offers a life-saving initiative that provides firefighters with the safe and efficient entry they need into the homes of vulnerable residents during fires, medical emergencies, and welfare checks.
The Knox Homebox Program involves homeowners purchasing a steel lock box and firefighters locking their house key inside it. Fire crews have a master key that opens the box in the event of an emergency or other urgent need.
The lock box starts at $227, but as a special bonus, the WFFD will install the box at no charge.
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Stay connected by downloading the Town of Wake Forest App
The Town of Wake Forest (TOWF) offers a free smartphone app that provides direct access to useful information about Wake Forest and encourages two-way communication between the Town and its residents.
Over 19,000 Android and iPhone users have downloaded the app allowing them instant access to important information about Town programs, services and events. Among its many functions, the TOWF app allows iPhone and Android users to:
- Receive breaking news messages
- Utilize “SeeClickFix” for prompt action on street maintenance, lights, potholes and graffiti, using the app to send a photo and exact location of the problem
- Access information about Town-sponsored events and events at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre
- Access information about the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging
- View Town job openings
- Utilize the “Waste Wizard”
- Access contact information for every Town department.
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Rules for motorized scooters, electric bicycles & electric assisted bicycles
In January, the Board of Commissioners approved an amendment to Chapter 30, Article III Section 30-1, and 30-90 thru 30-92 of the Code of Ordinances regarding motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric assisted bicycles, pedestrian right-of-way, and requirements for helmets.
The updated ordinance allows motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric assisted bicycles to operate on shared streets, greenways, parks, multi-use paths, and bicycle lanes – but not on sidewalks. It also requires anyone under the age of 16 to wear a bicycle helmet when operating one of these vehicles.
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Other highlights of the amended ordinance:
- Motorized scooters must have a maximum speed of no greater than 15 mph.
- Electric bicycles and electric assisted bicycles powered by motor only must have a maximum speed of no greater than 20 mph.
- A motorized scooter or an electric bicycle may not operate on any road with a speed limit over 25 miles per hour.
- No motorized scooter, electric bicycle, or electric assisted bicycle shall exceed a speed of 10 miles per hour while being operated on a greenway, in a park, or on a multi-use path.
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NCFST Mobile Market returns Sept 24
The Northern Community Food Security Team (NCFST) and Ripe for Revival are pleased to provide a mobile grocery store across from the Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., (typically) on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 3-4:30 p.m. – rain or shine.
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Special Events Policy
Special events are a key contributor to Wake Forest’s exceptional quality of life. In addition to numerous Town-organized annual events, such as Friday Night on White, Fireworks Spectacular, Good Neighbor Day, and Halloween Boo Bash, Wake Forest residents also enjoy many “Community Events.”
Community Events are Town-permitted special events in a public area (Festival Street/East Owen Avenue, South White Street, etc.) that a business, church, community group, or other organization plans, manages, pays for, and executes after applying for and receiving a Special Event Permit. Examples of “Community Events” include Meet in the Street (Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce), Cars & Carnivores (Wake Forest Rotary Club), and the Lighting of Wake Forest (Wake Forest Downtown, Inc.) – just to name a few.
As part of the Town’s process for permitting Community Events, Wake Forest staff must approve the event location and may require the involvement of Police, Public Works, and/or other Town departments, as necessary.
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Connections...100 Years of Wake Forest History on sale
The Town of Wake Forest is offering Connections…100 Years of Wake Forest History for $30 each.
Authored by Wake Forest resident and former “Wake Forest Gazette” Publisher Carol Pelosi, “Connections...100 Years of Wake Forest History” was written and released in 2009 to commemorate Wake Forest's Centennial Celebration.
Connections may be purchased online with credit card or debit card or in person at the Wake Forest Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St., with cash, check, credit card or debit card. After ordering your copy, stop by the Information Desk in the lobby of Town Hall at your convenience to pick it up.
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Check out WFTV 10
WFTV 10 is on the air on Spectrum Cable Channel 10 and streaming online.
WFTV 10 is the Town of Wake Forest's government access channel serving the residents of Wake Forest. Produced by the Town's Communications Department, WFTV 10 is available to residents and businesses that subscribe to Spectrum Cable TV service. For those who don't subscribe to Spectrum Cable, WFTV 10 is also provided in real-time streaming video and as a function of the Town App.
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WFTV 10 Schedule
Board of Commissioners work sessions are broadcast live on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. Work sessions are then re-broadcast over the next week at 9 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m.
Regular meetings are broadcast live on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., then re-broadcast daily throughout the remainder of the month at 9 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m.
Planning Board meetings are broadcast live on the second Tuesday of each month, then re-broadcast daily the following week at 9 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m.
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Monthly meeting schedule
The following monthly meeting schedule is in effect for the Board of Commissioners and Planning Board:
Board of Commissioners Work Session
First Tuesday/month - 6 p.m.
Planning Board Meeting
Second Tuesday/month - 6 p.m.
Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting
Third Tuesday/month - 6 p.m.
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“Show Some Love” by picking up litter along streets & roadways
The Town of Wake Forest is inviting individuals, families, churches and civic clubs to join the “Show Some Love, #KeepWFclean” campaign by picking up trash in their neighborhoods and along local streets and roadways. The initiative allows volunteers to pick up litter on a one-time or ongoing basis. Participants may also choose the area they wish to clean or request direction to high need areas around town.
To aid the effort, volunteers may reserve litter kits at no charge by completing the online reservation form. Each litter kit includes reflective vests, gloves, buckets, grabbers, trash bags, data collection sheets, hand sanitizer and litter education materials. A special thanks to Lightbridge Academy for donating the litter kits.
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Secure your load!
Loose trash in trucks creates litter along Wake Forest roadways.
Help keep Wake Forest roadways clean by securing any trash in your truck bed. When you throw trash in the back of your truck, it inevitably blows out and becomes litter on the roadside. In fact, half of all litter is blown, not thrown! Roadside litter costs millions of dollars to remove, decreases property values and has a negative impact on tourism.
The NC Department of Public Safety reports that an even bigger problem is unsecured loads in the back of trucks. At high speeds, even large items can fly out and hurt or startle other drivers causing accidents. Put trash into built-in containers. Use tarps, cargo nets and tie-downs to secure any loads. #KeepWFclean
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If you have questions or comments about the Town of Wake Forest website or E-News, please contact Bill Crabtree by email or call 919-435-9421.
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