Good morning, Wake Forest.

A federal judge sentenced Wilbert Lee Howard, III, 42, to 16 years in prison on Tuesday for leading a major cocaine trafficking operation in Raleigh that distributed around 14 kilograms of cocaine and involved firearms, with officers recovering drugs, cash & guns during property searches.

Yesterday, Wake County board members discussed moving North Forest Pines Elementary and Pleasant Union Elementary from a year-round schedule to a traditional calendar—if approved, changes will start in 2027 to lower costs despite concerns from parents.

Leaders also shared a draft enrollment plan that recommends a new school in Fuquay-Varina.

The Wake County School Board reviewed new student reassignment plans Tuesday evening to ease crowding and underenrollment as the district prepares to open Hilltop Needmore Elementary in Fuquay-Varina next school year — the public can review the draft before a final decision is made on Nov. 18.

Gov. Josh Stein outlined the NC Strong plan yesterday — which boosts AI development and public education — to help North Carolina remain a leader in innovation.

He signed an executive order to form an AI leadership council led by Teena Piccione, and his plan aims to improve classrooms by 2030.

Wake Forest's PRCR Department will hold a public meeting on September 30 at 6 p.m. in the Town Hall ground floor meeting room at 301 S.

Brooks St to collect resident input on plans for a new facility that will include a skate park, pump track, basketball and fitness courts, restrooms and a picnic shelter—Town staff and representatives from New Line Skatepark will be present to answer questions.

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.

Kristy Lee Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Ticket prices vary — Experience Kristy Lee’s haunting Southern gothic sound and poignant lyrics live.

Highland Reverie Concert

7:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Tickets required — Experience enchanting folk harmonies and Appalachian storytelling from the duo Luke and Madison Morris.