Life In Wake Forest NC.....

Wow - what a creative contest!  October 5 - 11, 2008 is Public Power Week and Wake Forest knows how to celebrate!  Three lucky residential electricity customers will have the chance to win free electricity for A  MONTH!  That's right, A MONTH!

All you have to do to enter is complete the "Public Power Week Word Search Contest".  To get the official form please visit this link.    Simply read the essay "Wake Forest - A Proud Public Power Community" and take note of the highlighted words.  Then, fill out the registration form (with puzzle) and fax or mail your submission.  Fax number is (919) 554-6111 OR you can mail your submission to Town of Wake Forest, Public Power Week Word Search Contest, 401 Elm Avenue, Wake Forest NC  27587.

All entries must be received by 4:00pm on October 10, 2008.  Only one entry per current residential customer will be accepted!

On October 13, Town Manager, Mark Williams, will draw the names of THREE winners from all submissions and the winning contestants will be notified no later than Tuesday, October 14.

Just a little appreciation for the residents in My Back Yard....

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

I was reminded today by D'Nise Hefner, Educational Program Director, of the wonderful programs that are available at Blue Jay Point Park.  If you missed my post a few months back here is a recap.  Please be sure to check out the end of this post for some great upsoming programs!

"My family and I decided yesterday that it was time to get out and take a walk.  The weather was absolutely gorgeous and we couldn't think of a better place to go......Blue Jay Point Park!

Typically, we take advantage of the huge playground that is there but this time decided to explore some of the exhibits they have as well as some trails that we had never hiked before......AMAZING!  The Blue Jay Point Center is loaded with educational information about the Falls Lake Watershed, Recycling, the forest, insects, etc....Learned quite a bit about the region that I hadn't know before!  Just outside of the center is the park's garden.  It is loaded with fresh herbs, flowers and a pond filled with slamanders and other water insects.  It was truly beautiful!

Many of the trails are short but can join with others for longer hikes if you like.  They are all well planned and natural beauty is endless!  My favorite trail is the Laurel Loop Trail that has a spur off of it that leads you directly to the lake - breathtaking views!

I hope that you enjoy some of the photos I captured - if you get the chance you should plan a whole day at the park.  In addition to the trails, nature center and playground they also have a softball field, soccer fields, picnic tables and grills - it is a great place to "be quiet" and enjoy some time outside....I know that we did!"

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Going to Seed - Saturday, September 27, 1-3pm  Learn about fascinating methods of seed dispersal as you make your own seed winnowing screen and create seed packet designs to bring home seeds to plant a garden of your own. 

The Green Team: Air Explorers - Friday October 10, 8:30am-4pm  (Traditional calendar teacher workday and Track 4 track-out)  Air is all around us and all-important to us. Join Blue Jay staff for fun, air-y games, crafts and activities. From photosynthesis tag and air painting to an AFV challenge and more-come explore air with us!

Migration Activation - Monday November 3, 8:30am-4pm (Traditional calendar vacation day and Track 3 track-out)  Animals are on the move, and you will be too. Join us for fun and games as we explore the annual movements of birds, bats and more. Create and share migration stories around the campfire and make a real, wood bat box to take home.

Be sure to check out the current quarterly newsletter to catch up on upcoming educational programs, events and camps.  Blue Jay Point Park is a great place to escape to - serence, peaceful AND educational!

Bringing it back to nature in My Back Yard.... 

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

 Wow - Be sure to check out our First Annual Oktoberfest in Wake Forest, NC!

October 25, 2008

Noon - 7:00pm

This fantastic family fun event will have a little of something for EVERYONE!

Authentic German Food

• Authentic German Band (Harbour Towne Fest Band)

Beers from several Breweries including:

• Big Boss Brewing Co. (Local Raleigh brewery with outstanding beer - you have to try Bad Penny - MY FAVORITE!)
• Foothills Brewing Company
• Duck Rabbit Brewery
• Red Oak Brewery
• and more!

Home Brewing Demonstrations

Cooking With Beer Demonstrations

Activities and Games for Kids

Proceeds for this fundraising event go to Graham Johnson Cultural Arts Endowment.

Be sure to mark your calendar!  This is one event you WON'T want to miss!

Come enjoy yourself in My Back Yard....

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Doris Kearns Goodwin, one of the most acclaimed historians of our time AND Pulitzer Prize winner, has developed a list of the 10 Qualities of a President.  While these points may be something to ponder for a Presidential Canidiate I find them quite applicable to ANY leader!  Can you find yourself among these qualities?

1. The Courage To Stay Strong
2. Self-Confidence
3. An Ability To Learn From Errors
4. A Willingness To Change
5. Emotional Intelligence
6. Self Control
7. A Popular Touch
8. A Moral Compass
9. A Capacity To Relax
10. A Gift For Inspiring Others

Whether you are a presidential candidate or not, this list proves to be the foundation by which one should aspire.  I firmly believe that if each of these points are addressed within our own lives we will find ourselves in a much better position.  A better position within our businesses, our relationships and with ourselves!

Start a plan today!  Address each of these qualities within yourself and discover how you can improve on them, incorporate them into your life and develop habits of excellence!

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

I read alot of posts on Active Rain - I mean ALOT!  We (me included) are always looking for ways to generate more business and new, cool marketing tools.  I have a brain that NEVER stops.  I am always thinking!  Many of you might think that I never stop and some days that is true. 

However, tomorrow is one of my volunteer days.  That got me thinking - do YOU give back as much as you take?  I wanted to mention a few of my volunteer activities to hopefully give you some ideas of where and how you, too, can give back.

Nationally, I am a HUGE proponent of UNICEF!  I signed up to voluteer with UNICEF years ago and there hasn't been one program that I have not participated in.  The last was World Water Day.  They have world events, local events, participation programs, and their most recent which is in full swing (meaning YOU can still get involved!) is their Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF.  You might want to check it out - great ideas and what a wonderful way to get children involved in voluteering and world awareness!

I Volunteer at my son's school!  If you have school-age children you should definately check out the volunteer opportunities at their school.  For me there are a variety of opportunities of ALL levels.  From simple copy duties, reading to the class, to being a chaperone on a field trip - tons of stuff to do.  Not only can I give back to the school that does a wonderful job but I can also be a part of my son's school experience.  Nothing like seeing his eye's light up when I show up to volunteer!  Also, no better way of making sure he is GOOD in school that day!  :)

I volunteer at Tri-Area Ministries.  This non-profit is not affiliated with any church and is a superb program for area families in need.  I drop off canned goods and dry products regularly.  Where they really need help is on Mon, Wed and Fridays.  You can show up at 7:30am and help to distribute food or, load donated furniture and household goods.  Any and all help is truely appreciated!

Opportunities are all around!  Check out your local library!  They need help, too! 

Now, do I wear a Realtor(r) pin while I do these things?  NO!  Do I hand out business cards when I volunteer?  NO!  I do these things because I can.  I am not looking for anything in return.  I am simply Leesa giving what I can back to those that, at the moment, need it more than me.

Take some time yourself and evaluate your level of giving.  Can you be doing more?  Can you make a difference?  Can you give a little more?  For me, that answer has always been - YES!

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Now, wait!  Before anyone thinks this is odd let's think about it!  You can't visit New Orleans without an obligatory tour of the St. Louis Cemetery which houses the the infamous or famous (whichever way you fall on that issue) Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.  There is the revered Arlington National Cemetery which chronicles American history and allows visitors to pay respects to our countries heros.

Wake Forestis preparing the Inagural Cemetery Tour  which will take place on November 8, 2008 from 10am - noon.  The tour is designed to celebrate the lives of those that have contributed to the rich and diverse culture of Wake Forest.  By learning more about our history we will be better equipped to navigate our future! 

I have been through our cemeteries and I can tell you first hand that they are rooted in history and full of stories to be told.  Volunteers are still being sought to share their stories of loved ones with gravesites located in the cemeteries.  If you would like to contribute to the tour please get in touch with Nancy Bates at (919) 556-2111.

History comes alive in My Back Yard....

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Wow, last week was very busy in Wake Forest!  Between Artist Studio Tours, The Bike Race, Chili Cook-off and Festival Friday I am TIRED! 

The upcoming week is also packed with some events and activites for all!  Take a peek!

From The Town of Wake Forest website:

Firing Range Training
Tuesday, September 23; Noon - 9:00 p.m.
Police Department Firing Range, behind Flaherty Park Community Center
Residents in the area are advised that the Wake Forest Police Department will conduct firing range training on Tuesday, September 23 from noon until 9:00 p.m. at the police department firing range, located behind the Flaherty Park Community Center. The firing range is utilized by Wake Forest Police officers who require instruction and practice in order to obtain current certification in the use of firearms. This certification is required in order for the officer to fulfill his duties for the Wake Forest Police Department. For more information, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/residents/police_firingrange.aspx.

Wake Forest Energy Fair
Tuesday, September 23; 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Ledford Center
Wake Forest Power and the Town of Wake Forest are sponsoring their 8^th Annual Energy Fair on Tuesday, September 23 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event will be held in the Ledford Center on the campus of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS). The event is free and open to the public. Wake Forest staff will be on hand to discuss the billing process, the Town's automated meter reading system, and its array of time and energy saving programs and services, including Load Management, Online Bill Pay, Automatic Bank Draft and Equal Payment. Information will also be available about the H.O.P.E. program, NC GreenPower, the benefits of public power, energy conservation, and electric safety. All energy fair attendees will be included in two $25 cash prize drawings sponsored by SEBTS. Wake Forest Power will also award several assorted prizes, including residential energy-saving kits. These energy kits are designed to help Wake Forest Power residential electricity customers understand energy usage and its effect on energy bills. Each kit contains four compact fluorescent lamps, a low-flow 2.5 gallons/minute showerhead, a five-minute hourglass shower timer, a refrigerator coil brush, stick-on and refrigerator magnet thermometers, and a plastic storm window kit. Participants who enroll in the H.O.P.E. program will also be included in a special drawing at the fair's conclusion. For more information about this year's energy fair, contact Customer Service Supervisor Drew Brown at (919) 554-6107.

Annual Meeting of the Wake Forest Fire Department, Inc. and the Wakette Rural Fire District
Thursday, September 25; 7:00 p.m.
Fire Station 1; 420 Elm Ave.
The annual meeting of the members of Wake Forest Fire Department, Inc. and the Wakette Rural Fire District will be held Thursday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m. at Station 1 located at 420 Elm Ave. The agenda will include a review of the 2007-08 financial report and the election of two directors. Voting will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m. All property owners in the Wake Forest Fire District are invited and urged to attend to participate in the election and discussion relating to the progress and activities of the department.

NC Theatre presents Whistle Down the Wind
September 26-27; 7:00 p.m.
Wakefield High School
Whistle Down the Wind, performed by NC Theatre's troupe of highly talented young performers ages 8-18, tells the story of three children who discover an escaped criminal hiding in their barn. They come to believe he is Jesus and agree to keep his location secret. The plot contrasts the innocence of children with the fervor of the town's residents to inflict punishment on the supposed evil in their midst. With moving melodies and a sweeping score, this tender story is sure to capture your family's heart. Ticket Prices: Students: $10; Groups: $12; General Admission: $18. VIP: $50 each/$100 per couple; includes reserved seating, VIP reception prior to show and playbill listing. To purchase tickets, please call NC Theatre at 919-831-6941 x6941. For more information, please visit www.nctheatre.com.

Wake Forest Farmers' Market
Saturday, September 27; 8:00 a.m. - Noon
Downtown Wake Forest - Municipal Parking Lot
The market offers fresh produce, pasture-raised beef, poultry and pork, free-range eggs, fresh and dried herbs, honey, jams and preserves, plus a whole lot more. The Farmers' Market is open Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon through November 22. For more information, visit www.wakeforestmarket.org.

I hope you have been having fun in My Back Yard....

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

July 2008 saw a decrease in the number of listings available in Wake Forest from June 2008 to July 2008 however Year to Year saw an overall 14% increase.

Wake Forest has also held steady with their absorption rate at 9 for two consecutive months.  We are still trending lower that the rest of the country.

And, finally, Wake County maintains healthy sales in all areas and continues to out-perform other parts of the country.  Wake Forest holds a very respectful 13% of total sales in Wake County.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....