By George Shaw Summary Results continue to improve in North Carolina with acceleration of the declines in new cases, deaths and hospitalizations. However, the forecast through August 1 for new cases and deaths continues to become more pessimistic. There continues to be a strong probability of another round of relaxation of restrictions by June 1. Removal of remaining constraints may be delayed until just before the 4th of July weekend. Key COVID-19 Data North Carolina’s ratings remain better than most of the states. It remained the14th lowest among the 50 states for the number of cases during the last week as well as the 13th lowest state in deaths per person. It also kept its ranking as 26th in terms of the most number of tests. IHME (see forecast section below) has estimated the number of deaths for most countries as well as all 50 states. The data currently presented captures deaths by reports from

Holding Park Aquatic Center will open for the 2021 season Saturday, May 29, at 9 a.m. To view the daily operating schedule, visit https://bit.ly/HoldingParkAquaticCenter. Located at 133 West Owen Avenue, the aquatic center features a six-lane, 25-yard lap pool, two water slides with plunge pool and children’s pool with water play. Open during the summer months, the facility offers swimming to the public, as well as swim lessons. Daily admission fees for Wake Forest residents are $1 for children ages 2 and under; $4 for children ages 3-13; $5 for patrons ages 13-59; and $4 for ages 60 and over. Daily admission fees for non-Wake Forest residents are $2 for children ages 2 and under; $6 for children ages 3-13; and $7 for patrons ages 13-59; and $6 for ages 60 and over. Due to COVID-19, the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department will implement a series of safety procedures at

The threat of severe weather forced the cancellation of the inaugural Spring Artisan Market, but organizers have rescheduled the outdoor event for June 5, 2021, in historic downtown Wake Forest. The Spring Artisan Market, presented by The Wake Forest Guild of Artists, ARTS Wake Forest and Wake Forest Downtown Inc., will be held along South White Street on Saturday, June 5, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the event of severe weather, the rain date is the following weekend on Saturday, June 12, same time, same place. The art event will feature more than 40 artisans who specialize in a variety of work including painting, printmaking, 2-D art, photography, candle making, ceramics, needlework, home decor, jewelry, edibles and more. Visitors can view the art in each booth and show their support by purchasing items. “Outdoor events can be difficult to plan because of unpredictable weather, but we’re happy to reschedule the Spring Artisan

The Wake Forest Area Chamber Foundation is sponsoring a new initiative which has been created specifically for area residents aged 55-plus. Connect Wake Forest is a four-week program designed to connect residents with like-minded peers while they learn about the history and growth of Wake Forest, discover ways to get involved in the town, and become more civically aware. At the end of the program, participants will be given opportunities to volunteer with existing organizations and launch new community initiatives. Connect Wake Forest is open to both residents and non-residents of Wake Forest. Applications are being accepted now. The program kicks off on Wednesday, July 14, at the Wake Forest Historical Museum. The day’s topic will be the history of Wake Forest. Subsequent programs feature town government, local businesses, and community involvement. During each session, participants will be introduced to community and business leaders. Every session includes lunch and facilitated