Good morning, Wake Forest.

North Carolina ranked third nationwide for Black-owned businesses with a 60.7% success rate—above the 56.1% national average; the report noted a 17% growth from 2023 to 2024 in these businesses.

Wake County families begin the traditional school year today as new cell phone restrictions—adding safety concerns—are set to take effect while questions over the state budget remain.

Parents and students are both excited and cautious as they return to in-person learning after summer break.

North Carolina law requires drivers to stop when a school bus shows its stop arm and flashing red lights.

Drivers who break the rule may face fines of $500, $1,000 if a collision occurs and up to $2,500 if a fatality results—rules set to protect children on the road.

The Bat-Signal Suncatcher Workshop

6-8 p.m. — MK Creative Arts Studio — Ages 10+ — Create your own glowing Bat-Signal suncatcher in this artistic workshop.

Joe Pug Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Carolina Theater Company — Check local listings for ticket prices — Experience poignant songwriting and harmonica melodies from Joe Pug, a rising star in the music scene.

Free Wake Forest Elite Rockstar Connect Networking Event

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Brothers Restaurant and Bar — Free entry — Connect with local professionals and expand your network in a vibrant atmosphere.