Good morning, Wake Forest.

ABC11 is featuring Raleigh potter Liz Kelly and her hand-crafted ceramics in a North Carolina-made series.

Kelly began sculpting at 16 at NC State’s Crafts Center — now she ships her work nationwide and supplies local retailers.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis released its quarterly GDP report that showed a 0.3% drop in the first quarter due to a surge in imports as businesses stocked up before new tariffs.

Economists will watch trade talks and second-quarter figures closely since over a million jobs in North Carolina depend on international trade — a factor that may lead to higher costs and slower job growth.

The Wake County Animal Center stopped allowing visitors under 18 on its adoption floor last week after animal control responded to a reported animal bite.

The center said the policy is meant to improve safety and reduce stress for animals (commissioner Vickie Adamson explained the move helps maintain a calm environment).

Starting today, the Wake County Animal Center restricts visitors under 18 from the adoption floor to help keep the shelter safe and reduce stress for the animals — families may still view pets in foster care or the adoption gallery and complete adoptions daily from noon to 6 p.m. at 820 Beacon Lake Drive.

Wake County is asking residents to donate new or gently used air conditioners, fans, or money to help keep families safe during dangerous summer heat—last year, county EMS responded to 250 heat-related calls that underscored the risks for older adults, children and people with medical conditions.

The Carolina Hurricanes reached the Eastern Conference Finals after eliminating the Washington Capitals on Friday and will face either the Florida Panthers or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Fans need to buy tickets online only—no tickets are sold at the Lenovo Center.

The Falls Lake Academy Firebirds won a 5-1 game over the Wake Prep Guardians in the first round of the 1A state softball playoffs on May 6.

Pitcher Wynterlee Glenn led her team through seven innings—striking out nine batters—to secure their win and advance to the next round.

Jim Lauderdale Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening with the Americana music legend Jim Lauderdale showcasing his latest album.

Adeem the Artist

7:30 PM – 1:30 AM — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Ticket prices vary — Experience the poetic storytelling of Adeem, a seventh-generation Carolinian singer-songwriter.