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JANUARY
Wintry Weather
Although the winter ice and snow that arrived on January 18 didn’t amount to too much, it’s arrival around 6 a.m. was enough to send more than a few motorists skidding into ditches and into other vehicles. Suffice it to say, the Town's first taste of winter caused a fair share of headaches – particularly for the police department. While Town road crews spent the morning spreading a sand/salt mix on bridges, overpasses, and traditional slick spots, police responded to nine minor traffic accidents. Although four of the nine resulted in some damage to property, none of the mishaps caused serious injuries.
Flaherty Park Phase III
The construction of Flaherty Park Phase III got underway on schedule. Phase III was part of the Parks & Recreation bond approved by voters in 2005. It included the addition of four lighted tennis courts, a picnic shelter, dog park and playground. The tennis courts and the picnic shelter were to be constructed adjacent to the Flaherty Park Community Center, while the dog park and playground were to be built next to the Flaherty Park baseball and softball fields.
Online Survey
The Town announced it was conducting an online survey to gather input from residents on where they would like to see more bicycle facilities. The survey was identified as an important element in the Town’s process of developing a comprehensive Bicycle Plan.
Community Plan Kick-Off
In recognition of the need for a formal policy to help guide decisions concerning how to manage the Town's growth and about how to allocate its resources to deal with growth-related issues, the Town of Wake Forest initiated the process of developing a Community Plan. When its finished, the plan will offer direction to Town government about future development, redevelopment, and about priorities for Town government in response to the demands brought about by the constant change. The Board of Commissioners appointed the Wake Forest Community Plan Steering Committee – comprised of 11 interested citizens - to oversee the preparation of the Community Plan. The Steering Committee held a joint kick-off meeting with the Town Board of Commissioners and Planning Board members.
FEBRUARY
State of the Town
For the second consecutive year, Wake Forest Mayor Vivian Jones recorded the “State of the Town” address for re-broadcast on Community Channel 10. Mayor Jones’s 14-minute presentation focused on several of the Town’s accomplishments during 2006, which she described as a “happening year.” The Mayor also discusses several current initiatives, as well as a number of personal goals for 2007, such as the creation of a youth advisory board.
Focus on Wake Forest
Wake Forest launched Focus on Wake Forest, a monthly news and information program on Community Channel 10. Focus on Wake Forest features Town of Wake Forest programs and services and explains how residents can better take advantage of what the Town has to offer. Each episode consists of three five-to-10-minute segments that highlight initiatives either already underway in Wake Forest or planned for the future. The first installment, which aired throughout February, spotlighted the electric system maintenance work being done by Wake Forest Power, introduce the Town’s new Automated Meter Reading system, and invited viewers to participate in the H.O.P.E. program.
A-Z Site Index
The Town added another useful resource to its website. The A-Z Site Index is designed to make it easier for visitors to find whatever it is they’re looking for on the Town’s website simply by searching for and clicking on a key word.
Our Town
The first edition of Our Town, Wake Forest’s bi-monthly newsletter was printed and shipped to the post office on its way to being mailed to every Wake Forest electric and sanitation customer. Our Town was the latest addition to the Town’s Communications Toolbox. Along with E-News, Focus on Wake Forest, and THE WEEK AHEAD, it was designed to help keep residents informed about Town of Wake Forest events, news and general town information. Due to the popularity of Our Town, Wake Forest officials agreed later in the year to mail the newsletter to every resident in the 27587 zip code. As a result, it connects with everyone - even citizens who do not enjoy access to the Internet or Community Channel 10.
Congressman Brad Miller Pays Visit to Town Hall
U.S. Rep. Brad Miller took advantage of a break in Congress to visit Town Hall. After personally greeting everyone who dropped in, the newly re-elected Congressman was formally introduced to those assembled in the Board Chambers by Mayor Vivian Jones. Miller took a few moments to address a range of current issues, including the war in Iraq, healthcare, and the 2008 Presidential race, and then fielded questions from the audience. Miller is a Democrat currently serving North Carolina’s 13th District, which includes Wake Forest. District 13 is North Carolina's newest congressional district stretching from Raleigh, along the Virginia border counties, to Greensboro in the state's piedmont region.
Counterfeit $50s Passed in Raleigh Area
The United States Secret Service urged local businesses to be on the alert for counterfeit $50 bills circulating around the Raleigh area. The counterfeit bills were of high quality but could be detected if examined closely. The Secret Service provided a Warning Notice to local law enforcement agencies for dissemination to businesses to aid in distinguishing between genuine and fake $50 bills.
Residents View Design for New Town Hall
A handful of residents came out on February 13 to hear Little Diversified Architects Steven Hawley and Vicki Grant present the conceptual plan for the new Town Hall and explain how the building will fit onto the land on Brooks Street. Most in attendance were intrigued by the plaza and the round, glassed-walled rotunda that will serve as the entrance lobby on that floor.
MARCH
Tree Seedling Giveaway Draws Hundreds
The March 10 Tree Seedling Giveaway was the Town's most successful ever as members of the Urban Forestry Advisory Board, with a major assist from Wake Forest/Pack 5 Cub Scouts, distributed 1,100 tree seedlings to over 500 area residents in less than three hours. The band of volunteers gave away Eastern Redbud, Overcup Oak, Bald Cypress, Southern Sugar Maple, and Persimmon free of charge until all the seedlings were gone. Planting instructions, along with useful information about the trees, were also included with the seedlings.
Arbor Day Celebration
Wake Forest’s annual Arbor Day celebration was March 22. As part of the town’s Arbor Day observance, the Urban Forestry Advisory Board presented Green Medal Awards to individuals, civic clubs, and businesses who worked to promote the town’s urban forest. The board also sponsored a poster contest for area elementary-age school children. Green Medal Awards were presented in 2007 in the Corporate and Project categories. The 2007 winners were:
- Corporate Green Medal Award – Heritage Golf Club
- Project Green Medal Award – Contentnea Creek Development Company for the design and development of the Bishop’s Grant community
The Urban Forestry Advisory Board also announced the year’s Arbor Day Poster Contest winners:
- Best Picture – Genie Richards, 4th Grader, Heritage Elementary
- State Entry – Jala Robinson, 5th Grader, Jones Dairy Elementary
- Most Creative – Josh Coates, 5th Grader, Jones Dairy Elementary
- Honorable Mention – Taylor Trotter, 4th Grader, home school
Community Plan Public Meeting
Population growth and development, resource management, transportation access, and public school reassignment are but a few of the many challenges facing Wake Forest residents and leaders. On March 23, the Wake Forest Human Relations Council (HRC) hosted a Community Leadership Summit at the Wake Forest Community House. The symposium presented six critical themes and action plans assessed by the School of Public Health at UNC-Chapel Hill.
D.A.R.E. Carnival
The Wake Forest Police Department sponsored a D.A.R.E. Carnival from March 28 through April 1 at the Wake Forest Home Depot. The carnival delivered fun and entertainment for the entire family, including rides, games and plenty of food! A portion of the proceeds benefited the Wake Forest Police Department's Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, which teaches youth the importance of making healthy decisions and remaining drug-free.
APRIL
Wake Forest Power Earns RP3 Distinction
Wake Forest Power was one of 48 of the nation’s more than 2,000 public power utilities to earn Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) recognition from the American Public Power Association for providing consumers with the highest degree of reliable and safe electric service. John Twitty, general manager of City Utilities of Springfield, Mo., and chair of the APPA Board of Directors, presented the designees on April 16, during the association’s annual Engineering & Operations Technical Conference, held in Atlanta, GA.
Focus on Wake Forest Wins Telly Award
Focus on Wake Forest, the Town's monthly news and information program airing on Community Channel 10, won the prestigious Telly Award for video production in the 28th Annual Telly Awards competition. Founded in 1978, the Telly Awards honor the very best local, regional, and cable television commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. Each year more than 13,000 entries from around the world are submitted for Telly Awards. Former recipients include Microsoft, NBA Entertainment, Nickelodeon, Nike Inc., and Black Entertainment Television.
Youth Forum Draws Large Turnout
Nearly 30 area high school students gathered at Flaherty Park Community Center on April 14 for Wake Forest's first-ever Youth Forum. The teens assembled to express their opinions about forming a youth advisory board and how it should be developed. Mayor Vivian Jones began the meeting by stating that she hoped the summit would be the first step toward forming a an officially recognized youth advisory board.
High Winds Cause Power Outages and Other Problems
On April 16, high winds blew down several trees throughout Wake Forest causing power outages in a few sections of town. Power was out along Thompson Mill Road and Durham Road, from College Street to US-1/Capital Boulevard after trees fell on power lines in those areas. That wasn’t the worst of it. A huge, healthy oak tree at South Avenue and South College fell over, crushing a truck and damaging three other vehicles.
New Look and New Name for Parks & Recreation Department Program Brochure
The Wake Forest Parks & Recreation Department, in conjunction with the Town’s Communications Department, published a new-look program guide and gave it a new name. RecConnect - formerly known as the Wake Forest Parks & Recreation Program Brochure – is a comprehensive guide offering information on recreational activities for children and adults. Published three times a year, the eight-page brochure includes particulars about youth and adult athletics, cultural programs, and special events, as well as useful information about the Town’s parks and facility rentals. The Parks & Recreation Department mailed a copy of RecConnect to all Town of Wake Forest electric and sanitation customers.
Bank Robber Caught
Wake Forest Police arrested a 19-year-old Raleigh man on April 13, two days after he robbed the Fidelity Bank, 12201 Capital Boulevard. Police arrested Delance Cardero Young, 3351 Wills Grove Lane, Apartment #205, after receiving a tip from someone who saw the suspect’s picture in Raleigh’s News & Observer. Young was charged with one count of armed robbery and was being held at the Wake County Public Safety Center under $100,000 secured bond.
Community Plan Public Meeting
Over 200 area residents gathered at the Wake Forest Community House on April 19 for the first in a series of planned public meetings to offer their vision for the town's future. Town officials said the overwhelming turnout was an encouraging step in toward the development of an updated Wake Forest ComPlan. Chip Russell, Planning Director, said the input offered by citizens during the meeting will be reviewed and considered throughout the planning process. "We sincerely appreciate everyone who offered their ideas, and we encourage everyone to stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks," said Russell.
Community Leadership Summit
The Wake Forest Human Relations Council (HRC) hosted its second annual Community Leadership Summit on April 26 at Wake Forest Elementary School. Area citizens, school and government leaders and service providers in Wake County were invited to attend the forum which focused on issues surrounding education in Wake County Schools. The summit engaged citizens and leaders in a discussion about the future of education in Wake County, and provided solutions from participants, concluding with an action plan to address stated concerns.
MAY
2007-08 Budget Presented
Town Manager Mark Williams presented the FY 2007-2008 budget to the Board of Commissioners for consideration. The budget serves as the Town’s financial and spending plan for the year and, once adopted, authorizes resources and establishes a direction for Wake Forest programs and services for the coming year. The proposed budget included no changes in the property tax ($0.54 per $100 of assessed property valuation), downtown municipal service district tax ($0.10 per $100 assessed property valuation) or electric rate (unchanged for the 15th consecutive year). Residential garbage rates remain unchanged at $14.60 per month. The plan proposed 10 full-time positions, including four police officers. Future needs and issues include construction of the new town hall, road improvements, additional park facilities and provision of adequate fire services.
Guide to the Town of Wake Forest
Have you ever needed the telephone number for a particular department in the Town of Wake Forest? How about an address for one of the town’s parks or other facilities? Have you ever been curious about Wake Forest’s history or wanted information about area colleges, churches, or civic clubs? Are you new to Wake Forest and looking for fun places to go and things to do in our area? If you are a Town of Wake Forest electric or sanitation customer and you answered yes to any of those questions, then the town offered a special gift just for you – the first-ever Guide to the Town of Wake Forest. The clever, all-in-one handbook provides useful information about all things Wake Forest, including an overview of the town’s history, a description of town departments, and a list of community events. The guide also contains important contact numbers, as well as information about town programs and services, advisory boards, and the board of commissioners. There are also sections devoted to area attractions, churches, civic clubs, plus a whole lot more. Additional copies of the booklet are available for $3.50 each.
Vehicle Break-ins
Following a string of recent break-ins involving unlocked vehicles in the Heritage subdivision, the Wake Forest Police Department is again urging residents to lock their unoccupied vehicles when parked at home or away. Police officials said most vehicle break-ins are carried out by amateurs who take advantage of the carelessness of drivers who leave their vehicles unlocked and valuables in plain sight. By simply locking your doors, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
Wake Forest Power Well Represented at NCAMES Lineman’s Rodeo
Over 60 utility linemen from 15 public power cities and towns across the state – including five from Wake Forest Power - gathered in Greenville to show off their skills at the 2007 Lineman’s Rodeo. The Lineman’s Rodeo is an annual event put on by the North Carolina Association of Municipal Electric Systems, better known as NCAMES. Participants in the competition scaled power poles erected in a large field behind the Greenville Convention Center as a part of the three separate events of the rodeo - the Hurtman Rescue, Insulator Change Out, and Egg Climb. Competitors are judged on both time and technique. Representing Wake Forest Power were journeyman linemen William Wester, Scott Abbott, David Elliott, Jason Shambley, and Chad Champion.
Dump Truck Causes Big Mess
Did you hear the one about the dump truck and the traffic signal lights? Well there's no punchline to this story. On Tuesday, May 22 around 9 a.m. a dump truck traveling south along Heritage Lake Road attempted to turn right onto Rogers Road. The driver of the truck mistakenly left the bed of the truck in the raised position. Upon entering the Heritage Lake Road, Forestville Road, and Rogers Road intersection, the bed snagged the traffic signal lights. Before the truck finally stopped, it had pulled down the traffic lights, broken several utility poles and downed a number of power lines. Crews worked throughout the day into the early evening replacing the poles and the traffic signal lights. Power was restored and the traffic signals were fully functional by approximately 9:30 p.m.
JUNE
Flaherty Dog Park Opens
The new two-acre Flaherty Dog Park, located on North White Street - adjacent to the Flaherty Park baseball and softball fields – officially opened. Flaherty Dog Park, the first dog park in Wake Forest, features a paved entrance and two exercise areas. Each of the fenced areas – one for small dogs and one for larger dogs – includes grass cover, picnic tables, shade trees, waste stations and a water fountain for both dogs and people. The fenced areas are accessed through a double-gated entry system designed to allow dog owners the opportunity to remove or fasten dog leashes prior to entering or exiting the facility. The dog park is open free to the public each day from dawn until dusk.
Board of Commissioners Approve .55 Property Tax Rate
On June 19 the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners voted to raise property taxes by a penny (to 55 cents per $100 assessed valuation) as part of the Town's 2007-08 fiscal year budget. The additional revenue will go directly to the Wake Forest Fire Department. For a $100,000 property, the increase amounted to approximately $10/year.
Gas Leak Causes NC 98 Shutdown
On June 11 authorities closed down both lanes of NC 98 between Tyler Run and US 1/Capital Boulevard for over 12 hours after a gas line was ruptured during construction in the Oakwood Estates area. The road was closed until nearly 11 p.m. as crews worked to fix the broken pipe. Area residents were notified but an evacuation of the area was not deemed necessary.
Chemical Leak Causes Concern
Local authorities considered closing both lanes of US 1/Capital Boulevard due to a sulfuric acid leak at Mallinckrodt Chemical plant, 8801 Capital Blvd. Concern about the prospect of rain in the afternoon reacting with the acid to produce toxic fumes prompted the deliberation, which the Town of Wake Forest revealed in an E-Alert to E-News subscribers hours before the evening rush hour. Since the rain never materialized, the action proved unnecessary and things slowly returned to normal. According to news reports, 15,000 gallons of sulfuric acid leaked from a storage tank at the North Raleigh facility. The spill caused no immediate injuries, but two Wake County Schools, a preschool and at least one business were forced to evacuate as a precaution.
Police Department Receives Early Christmas Present
The Wake Forest Police Department announced it had received $58,115.62 from the United States Marshals Service as part of the United States Department of Justice’s (USDOJ) Asset Forfeiture Program. A percentage of the remaining funds were distributed among the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Henderson Police Department, the Vance County Sheriff’s Department and the Franklinton Police Department. One year earlier, the Wake Forest Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Division had teamed with these law enforcement agencies to conduct a DWI checkpoint along US 1 near the Franklin County/Vance County line. During the operation, approximately $1.5 million was seized from known drug dealers. Police officials were unsure how they would spend the funds but said they were considering options that will provide the greatest benefit to the entire department.
Detective Richards Designated CFE
The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) awarded Wake Forest Police Detective D. Richards with the designation of Certified Fraud Examiner or CFE. The Certified Fraud Examiner designation denotes proven expertise in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation. CFEs are knowledgeable in four areas critical in the fight against fraud: Fraudulent Financial Transactions, Criminology & Ethics, Legal Elements of Fraud, and Fraud Investigation. Only select professionals who meet a stringent set of criteria, including character, experience, and education may receive CFE certification. After successfully meeting ACFE requirements, which include passing the CFE examination and gaining approval from the ACFE’s Board of Regents, Det. Richards now joins the rank of over 16,000 business and government professionals around the world who have earned CFE certification.
JULY
Year-Round Water Restrictions Take Effect
Raleigh’s new year-round lawn irrigation water conservation measures took effect July 2. The new rules apply to customers of the City of Raleigh public water system, including Wake Forest residents, who use water from the system in automatic and non-automatic lawn irrigation systems and those who use Raleigh supplied water in garden hose-attached lawn irrigation sprinklers to water their lawns. City of Raleigh water customers who use these types of irrigation systems with odd-numbered addresses were allowed to water their lawns and outdoor plants using these systems on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Even-numbered addresses could water on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. No lawn irrigation using these systems was allowed on Mondays. Raleigh water customers who use Raleigh supplied water for watering by physically holding a garden hose in their hand were exempt from the year-round mandatory required irrigation schedule and could water lawns and outdoor plants by this method at anytime.
Youth Advisory Board Appointments Announced
The Wake Forest Board of Commissioners announced the appointment of Darnesha Adams, Justin Alderman, Jessie Ammons, Kate Camacho, Kyra Daniel, Felicia Fotsch, Brandon Jackson, Krista Pimentel, and Gabriel Lopez to the first-ever Wake Forest Youth Advisory Board. The Youth Advisory Board was established to provide Wake Forest’s youth with an active role in addressing community issues and to serve as a voice for young people in all facets of the community. The board researches issues and make presentations to the Board of Commissioners and sponsors informational and/or fun events for area youth. Only high school students (grades 9 – 12) are eligible to serve on the YAB, which consists of nine members - five of whom must live in the Town limits. YAB members will serve one-year terms, but may be re-appointed. The YAB will meet on the third Saturday of each month at 9:00 a.m. at Flaherty Park Community Center.
Wake Forest Offers NC GreenPower
Beginning in July, Wake Forest Power customers had the opportunity to enroll in North Carolina’s GreenPower program. NC GreenPower is an independent, nonprofit organization established to improve North Carolina’s environment through voluntary contributions toward renewable energy. A landmark initiative approved by the N.C. Utilities Commission, NC GreenPower is the first statewide green energy program in the nation supported by all the state’s utilities and administered by Advanced Energy, an independent nonprofit corporation located in Raleigh, N.C. The goal of NC GreenPower is to supplement the state’s existing power supply with more green energy – electricity generated from renewable resources like the sun, wind and organic matter. The program accepts financial contributions from North Carolina citizens and businesses to help offset the cost to produce green energy. A typical contribution of just $4 per month adds one block of 100 kilowatt-hours of green energy to North Carolina’s power supply. Large-volume users – usually from the corporate sector – may contribute towards 100 or more blocks at a rate of $2.50 per block with a different energy mix.
Eight Candidates to Vie for Three Seats
Eight candidates filed to run for three seats on the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners. Chris Kaeberlein, Boyd Crane, John Shoemaker, Anne Hines, Peter Thibodeau, Rob Bridges and Commissioners Velma Boyd and David Camacho vied for the spots in the November 6 election.
Final Version of Northeast Neighborhood Plan Approved
The Board of Commissioners approved the final version of the Northeast Neighborhood Plan. The initiative identified over 30 areas for improvement as well as the agencies responsible for bringing about change.
Flaherty Park Tennis Center Grand Opening
The biggest event in Wake Forest tennis history took place the July 13 weekend with the grand opening of the new Flaherty Park Tennis Center. The Wake Forest Area Tennis Association (WFATA) invited all of Wake Forest out for a full weekend of free fun, food, games, and tennis events.
Flaherty Dog Park Grand Opening
Despite the sweltering heat and humidity, approximately 100 Wake Forest-area residents and their four-legged friends turned out for the July 19 Flaherty Dog Park grand opening.
AUGUST
Olde Mill Stream Section of Richland Creek Greenway Grand Opening
The Town of Wake Forest invited area residents to help celebrate the completion of the Olde Mill Stream section of the Richland Creek Greenway Corridor by attending a special ribbon cutting ceremony on August 2. Following a brief ceremony, Wake Forest officials led a walk along the new half-mile section of greenway. Offering scenic views along Richland Creek, the 10-feet wide asphalt multi-use trail is designed for biking, hiking or simply enjoying nature. As part of the planned north-south arterial greenway trail of Wake Forest’s open space and greenway system, the section begins at the Olde Mill Stream Sales Office, extends north along the east side of Richland Creek and ends just north of Littlehampton Court at Barnford Mill Road.
National Night Out
On Tuesday, August 7 neighborhoods throughout Wake Forest joined the Wake Forest Police Department, Target, and thousands of communities across the United States for the 24th Annual National Night Out. National Night Out (NNO) teams law enforcement agencies with citizens, community leaders, civic groups, and local businesses to promote safe, healthy neighborhoods. NNO is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. The Wake Forest Police Department and Target, the national sponsor for NNO, marked the occasion by hosting a “National Night Out Against Crime Parking Lot Party” at the Wake Forest Target Superstore, 12000 Retail Drive.
Recreation Advisory Board Wins State Award
The North Carolina Recreation & Parks Association (NCRPA) presented the Wake Forest Recreation Advisory Board with the 2007 Distinguished Board Award at the Citizen Board Member Forum in Greensboro, August 3-5. Cynthia Tart, National Recreation & Parks Association Trustee and Citizen Board Member from Brunswick County presented the award to Wake Forest Recreation Advisory Board Chair Tom Hodges during the awards banquet portion of the conference August 4. The honor recognizes outstanding contributions and accomplishments in the promotion of recreation and parks. The North Carolina Recreation & Park Association is a nonprofit education and advocacy organization dedicated to the advancement of the park, recreation and leisure profession in North Carolina.
Wake Forest Wins Second Communications Award
For the second consecutive year, the Town of Wake Forest received the Communications Public Power Award of Excellence at the ElectriCities Annual Meeting, August 10-11. The award recognizes outstanding customer communication, including the use of bill inserts to communicate information to customers, use of innovative strategies to communicate policies, production of a newsletter or e-newsletter, assignment of a public information officer, and completion of a coordinated communications plan.
Town Earns 17th Consecutive Financial Reporting Award
For the 17th consecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Town of Wake Forest for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by the Town and its management.
Town Launches Community Plan "Blog"
The Town of Wake Forest launched another weblog or “blog,” this time to keep area residents updated about the progress of the Wake Forest Community Plan. Located at http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/communityplan_blog.aspx, Wake Forest’s new online journal is modeled after the Town Manager’s Blog, which the Town unveiled in 2005. The Community Plan Blog contains stories and updates about the plan’s development, as well as important announcements, photographs and notes from community plan meetings. The site is designed to encourage citizens to offer their ideas and opinions concerning the plan by providing links to an online comment form at the end of each entry.
Stage 1 Water Restrictions in Effect
Due to the ongoing drought, the City of Raleigh implemented Stage 1 water conservation plan use restrictions beginning August 28. The Stage 1 mandatory water use restrictions applied to all City of Raleigh water customers, including Wake Forest residents. Stage 1 mandatory water use restrictions reduce the days irrigation is allowed to one day per week. Odd property addresses were permitted on Tuesdays and even property addresses on Wednesdays. The Stage 1 restrictions also limit use of City of Raleigh supplied water for other uses such as washing vehicles at home, power washing driveways, sidewalks, homes, and filling swimming and decorative pools.
Thrift Earns CPSI Designation
Wake Forest Facility Maintenance Supervisor Jimmy Thrift attained the Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) designation from the National Recreation and Park Association, through the National Playground Safety Institute. The CPSI designation signifies that Thrift is certified to inspect playgrounds for safety issues; making sure that each playground he inspects is up to current national standards, developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSI certification is valid for three years. Thrift attained CPSI certification by attending a three-day seminar and passing the CPSI examination on the final day of the class. The course is recognized as the most comprehensive training program on playground hazard identification and risk management methods offered in North America.
SEPTEMBER
Good Neighbor Day
Good Neighbor Day was held Sunday, September 16 at Holding Park. The event brings together people from all walks of life for a day of fun, food, and live local entertainment. It is also an important part of the Town of Wake Forest’s efforts to encourage diversity and goodwill among its citizens. Co-sponsored by the Human Relations Council and the Greenways Advisory Board, Good Neighbor Day offers a mix of culture, music, ages, ethnicity and more.
Gennie Williams Recognized as Wake Forest Employee of the Year
The Town of Wake Forest has recognized Maintenance Worker Gennie Williams as its 2007 Employee of the Year. Deputy Town Manager Roe O’Donnell made the announcement September 22 during the Town’s third annual “Family Fun Day.” During his remarks O’Donnell said Williams is “a rarity in today’s society. So often the quiet, unassuming employees are forgotten. They come to work every day, same time, same place and do whatever’s asked of them – day in and day out. Our Employee of the Year represents what is now a dying breed of employee – from the old school – happy to have a job and willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. (He) is well-liked by both co-workers and supervisors – here every day to do the tasks assigned – ready to serve the citizens of the Town of Wake Forest with a smile and a positive attitude!”
Energy Fair
The Town of Wake Forest sponsored its 7th Annual Energy Fair on September 27 in the Ledford Center on the campus of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS). Wake Forest staff were on hand to discuss the billing process, the town’s automated meter reading system, and its array of 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 were included in two $25 cash prize drawings sponsored by SEBTS.
Plummer Park Gets a New Look
Plummer Park received a much-needed face-lift courtesy of Andrew Hale, a local Boy Scout. A member of Boy Scout Troop 5, Andrew is an Eagle Scout candidate who worked with the Town’s Parks & Recreation Department to turn an old water tank building into a picnic shelter. Andrew contacted the Recreation Department several about the possibility of undertaking a project and was excited about the possibility of constructing a shelter. He spent several months researching various designs, making a materials list, and gathering other scouts to assist him. In addition to a dozen Troop 5 scouts and two Troop 5 dads, the work crew also included other volunteers such as Crenshaw Manor residents Phil Clawson and son Pearce, as well as Andrew's first cousin (and Eagle Scout) John Brewer of Roxboro and Andrew's uncle Benjamin Hale, a building contractor in Raleigh. In addition to the construction work, Andrew also endeavored to advertise the project. He distributed 100 flyers in Crenshaw Hall and Crenshaw Manor subdivisions informing residents about the work. In a gesture of goodwill that illustrates Wake Forest’s wonderful community spirit, several residents stepped forward to donate needed tools as well as refreshing lemonade.
OCTOBER
Franklin Street Project
Construction on the Franklin Street Improvement Project began October 1. Narron Contracting, Inc., of Middlesex, NC, was selected as the project contractor. The project, which is expected to be completed in approximately 15 months, extends from the Holding Avenue intersection to the intersection of Wait Avenue.
Public Power Week Word Search Contest
Public Power Week was October 7-13 and Wake Forest Power celebrated again in 2007 by offering its residential electricity customers the chance to win free electricity! For the third consecutive year, three lucky residential customers won a free month’s worth of electricity in October, simply by participating in the Public Power Week Word Search Contest.
Lawn Irrigation Prohibited
Raleigh officials voted in October to ban lawn irrigation in a further effort to conserve water in the midst of the exceptional drought plaguing the area. The Raleigh City Council approved amended Stage 1 mandatory water conservation restrictions and rules that:
- Prohibit watering by automatic or non-automatic spray irrigation systems:
- Prohibit washing vehicles at home;
- Prohibit watering by hose-end sprinklers and soaker hoses; and,
- Cease the issuance of lawn and landscape irrigation establishment permits.
Austin Wins Meritorious Service Award
Wake Forest Parks & Recreation Department Athletic Coordinator Edward Austin was presented with the 2007 Meritorious Service Award by the North Carolina Recreation & Parks Association’s Athletic Division following the final session of the association’s Athletic Directors Workshop. Austin was recognized for his 18 years of service to the NCRPA and eight years of service on the Athletic Directors Workshop steering committee, including one year as chair.
Wake Forest Joins Rank of Cool Cities
The North Carolina Sierra Club formally presented Mayor Vivian Jones with a plaque recognizing the Town of Wake Forest as a “Cool City” during a special ceremony October 30 at Town Hall. The Cool Cities program recognizes local governments that commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 7 percent below 1990 levels within five years. Among Wake Forest’s "green" initiatives is the addition of alternative-fuel vehicles to reduce gasoline consumption. Also, in August, the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners endorsed the U.S. mayors' climate protection agreement, which sets a five-year goal of slashing carbon-dioxide emissions.
NOVEMBER
New Members Elected to Board of Commissioners
Chris Kaeberlein, Anne Hines, and Peter Thibodeau were elected to the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners.
Community Plan Process Moves Forward
On November 15 the Town of Wake Forest hosted its second special public meeting concerning the development of the Community Plan. Altogether, over 100 residents turned out for the meeting held at the Wake Forest Presbyterian Church Christian Life Center. During the first public meeting, held April 19, over 200 Wake Forest citizens voiced nearly 1,000 concerns and ideas regarding the town's future. Following the meeting, consultant Glen Harbeck worked with the Community Plan Steering Committee to review the concerns in search of common themes. These themes led directly to a new Vision for Wake Forest. The November 15 session revealed 15 Vision statements, including:
- Keeping a small town feeling and identity
- Promoting a more walkable and bikeable community
- Creating an expanded park and open space system
- Directing balanced, compatible commercial development
- Encouraging affordable, quality residential development
- Enhancing Wake Forest as a destination for arts and culture
- Facilitating a vibrant, pedestrian friendly downtown
Attendees were asked to comment on two of the 15 visions for the future of Wake Forest, focus on a single aspect or phrase and suggest an action the Town could take to make the vision a reality.
DECEMBER
Human Relations Council Takes Part in Unity Day
On Saturday, December 1, the Wake Forest Human Relations Council participated in the second annual Mayor’s Unity Day hosted by the City of Raleigh’s Human Relations Commission. The event was held at the McKinnon Center on the campus of North Carolina State University. Wake Forest Human Relations Council Chair Mitch Lawson was one of several Human Relations Advisory Council and Commission members representing North Carolina and municipalities in surrounding areas. The goal of the event was for participants to learn and share ideas on how to enhance understanding of diverse cultures, build inclusiveness, and strengthen overall human relations throughout the Triangle.
Wake Forest Preparing for 2009 Centennial Celebration
The Town of Wake Forest began making plans for its 2009 Centennial Celebration. In preparation for this historic occasion, the Town convened the 2009 Wake Forest Centennial Celebration Committee to plan the centennial, which will be celebrated throughout 2009. The committee’s mission is to commemorate the town’s 100th birthday, recognize its long and storied history, and honor the many organizations and individuals that contribute to our community. The theme of the celebration is “Honor the Past, Celebrate the Present, Embrace the Future.” Since late 2006 the centennial committee has been meeting monthly to plan a series of special events to reflect the diversity and uniqueness of Wake Forest. The festivities will begin New Year’s Eve 2008 with First Light Wake Forest, followed by what’s being billed as “The Party of the Century” in February 2009. Other centennial celebration events taking place during 2009 will include one of the Six Sundays in Spring concerts, the annual 4th of July Celebration, and a Christmas Gala in December - tentatively scheduled to be held in the new town hall. To ensure smooth planning and provide special assistance for the year-long celebration, the Town of Wake Forest hired Kara Louise, an experienced special events planner to serve as the Centennial Celebration Events Coordinator. Her role is to assist the centennial committee and help plan and implement the centennial celebration events. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities exist for interested residents and businesses.
Police Ask for Help Identifying Bank Robbery Suspect
Wake Forest Police were asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who robbed the Capital Bank, 12217 Capital Boulevard, Thursday, December 13. The suspect entered the bank around 11:50 a.m. and demanded money. The teller gave the man an undisclosed amount of cash before he fled the scene on foot.
Raleigh Set To Go To Stage 2 Water Restrictions
The City of Raleigh projected it will need to implement State 2 Water Conservation Measures shortly after Christmas. Raleigh’s water source, Falls Lake, had 26.1 percent of its water supply pool storage which translates to 95 days of supply. City Manager J. Russell Allen asked for and received the City Council’s permission to implement Stage 2 Mandatory Conservation Measures should Falls Lake shrink to a 90-day supply.
Shop with a Cop
The Wake Forest Police Department’s 9th Annual Shop with a Cop holiday shopping spree was Tuesday, December 18. The first of nearly 25 area children began arriving at the Wake Forest Police Department courtroom around 3 p.m. Once everyone was present, each child was paired with their police officer “partners.” Around 4 p.m., the kids and their partners were transported by bus to the local Super Wal-Mart, where each child was given $175 to spend on a winter coat and other items of their choice. Following the shopping spree, the children and their partners returned to the police department for a pizza party.
Miller Park Bridges Installed
Each of the three crossings at Miller Park, which had been dismantled and removed earlier this year, has been replaced with three new bridges. Work crews were to spend the next several days putting the finishing touches on the bridges. Miller Park is expected to re-open January 4.
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