Good morning, Wake Forest.

On Tuesday, May 20 at 11:15 p.m., Wake Forest Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Capital Boulevard/US 1 near Star Road that killed one female and seriously injured three others — lanes were closed until 3:45 a.m. as the NC State Highway Patrol assisted with the investigation while charges are pending against the wrong-way driver.

A Massachusetts college student named Matthew Lane, 19, was charged on Tuesday with hacking PowerSchool’s system that led to a 2024 data breach exposing personal data of millions of North Carolina teachers, students and parents; he is pleading guilty to cyber extortion conspiracy, unauthorized access to protected computers and aggravated identity theft (the charges follow a federal investigation) (Lane entered a plea deal with the government).

The Wake County School Board approved a first reading of a proposal to limit cell phone, tablet, and smartwatch use in classrooms so that a policy will be ready by fall.

Board members will meet again to adjust enforcement measures and grade-specific guidelines—citing concerns that phone confiscations may increase classroom conflict.

The Capital Boulevard expansion project is in debate after the local planning group voted to add tolls to help fund the $1.3 billion upgrade — while a Wake Forest lawmaker led an effort in the state house to block state funds for tolls.

Drivers frustrated by increasing traffic now await further Senate discussion and potential federal review in July.

Wake Forest Power lineman Hugo Mier won first place overall at the NCAMES Lineman’s Rodeo on May 15 in Rocky Mount after scoring top marks in hurtman rescue, tie and untie, and the obstacle course.

His win qualifies him to compete at the American Public Power Association Lineworkers Rodeo in Huntsville in 2026 — marking his second consecutive overall win.

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.

Couldn't Be Happiers

7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Ticket info TBD — Enjoy an engaging performance from a lively folk-rock/Americana duo.

Fairy Hair Sparkle Session

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Frabjous Catfe — Cost to be determined — Add some shimmer to your hair with Fairy Hair while enjoying coffee and cuddling with kitties.