County News Archive - 2008

NEWS: Make Book Jackets into Gift Bags, Help Plan Events, Wake Up and Read at Wake Libraries in January, 12/31/2008 Wake County Libraries events in January 2009.

NEWS: Holiday Closing Schedule Reminder, 12/23/2008 Wake County will be observing the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, resulting in many departments being closed.

NEWS: Adopt A Pet: Remember, Pets as Gifts Require Love and Responsibility , 12/21/2008 Interested in adopting a pet this holiday season? The Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center wants to remind citizens the shelter offers ways of making sure that animal lovers are remembered this holiday. Gift certificates can be purchased so that the right owner is matched with the right pet. Citizens can also donate supplies used in providing care to the remaining homeless animals such as newspaper, paper towels, pet food, cat litter and pet shampoo.

FEATURE: Concert Benefits Wake County Foster Children and Child Welfare Families, 12/19/2008

2008 Wake Book Sale is a Success, 12/04/2008 The 2008 Wake County Public Library Book Sale collected nearly $182,000 in revenue that will go into the Wake County General Fund. Revenue from the book sales helps to determine the library system's budget for the upcoming year.

Holiday Cards for Soldiers, Pajamas Drive and Babysitting Certification at Wake County Libraries in December, 12/02/2008 Holiday Cards for Soldiers, Pajamas Drive and Babysitting Certification at Wake County Libraries in December

Commissioners Sworn In; Webb Elected Chair, Brown Vice Chair, 12/01/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners today swore in newly elected commissioner, Stan Norwalk; and two re-elected commissioners, Betty Lou Ward and Harold Webb, during its regular meeting at 2 p.m. in Room 700 of the Wake County Courthouse, 316 Fayetteville St. in Raleigh. Each commissioner will serve a four-year term.

Fire Marshal Urges Caution When Frying Turkeys, 11/26/2008 Wake County Fire Marshal Ray Echevarria is urging residents to be extremely careful over the holidays if they choose to use a turkey fryer. The recent popularity of the large fryers has lead to an increase in fires caused by their use.

Sleigh Rides, Apple Cider, Wheat Grinding and Bird Watching at Wake County Parks in December, 11/26/2008 Events at Wake County Parks in December.

Celebrate the Holidays at Historic Oak View County Park, 11/19/2008 Get in the holiday spirit at Historic Oak View County Park by enjoying "A Winter Night at Oak View," Saturday, December 6, 2008, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Oak View County Park is located at 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The program is free and open to the public.

Teen Talk Lock-In to Take Place November 21-22, 11/18/2008 Wake County teens ages 14-19 and their parents are invited to take part in the 4th annual “Teen Talk Lock-In,” taking place November 21-22 at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive in Raleigh. The event runs from 6:30 p.m. on Friday through 7 a.m. on Saturday.

Bryan to Deliver State of the County on Monday, Nov. 17, 11/14/2008 Wake County Board of Commissioners’ Chairman Joe Bryan will deliver the State of the County address on Monday, November 17, at 2 p.m. in Room 700 of the Wake County Courthouse, 316 Fayetteville St. in Raleigh, during the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners’ meeting.

Project Assist Enlists 19 Worksites to Go Smoke Free on November 20, 11/13/2008 Wake County’s Project Americans Stop Smoking Intervention Study (ASSIST) has signed up 19 worksites across the county to participate in the Great American Smoke Out (GASO) on Thursday, November 20, 2008. GASO is an annual event that encourages tobacco users to attempt to quit smoking for the day, with the hopes that they will continue to be tobacco-free.

Public Invited to Celebrate 'GIS Day' in Wake County, 11/13/2008 Wake County's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) staff invites the public to learn about geography and GIS technology as the County recognizes "Celebrate Your Place in the World on GIS Day" Tuesday, November 18, 2008, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at One Exchange Plaza, Suite 100, (corner of One Exchange Plaza and South Wilmington Street), in downtown Raleigh. GIS Day is a global event designed to show how GIS helps address local and global issues everyday.

Eastern Wake Affordable Housing Fair, 11/12/2008 Reporters and photographers are invited to cover Wake County Human Services Housing Fair, tomorrow, November 13, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive in Zebulon. The theme of the 2008 Wake County Housing Fair is "Our New Home, The Journey Continues," or "Nuestra Casa Nueva La Jornada Continua" in Spanish.

Eastern Wake Affordable Housing Fair, 11/12/2008 Reporters and photographers are invited to cover Wake County Human Services Housing Fair, tomorrow, November 13, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive in Zebulon. The theme of the 2008 Wake County Housing Fair is "Our New Home, The Journey Continues," or "Nuestra Casa Nueva La Jornada Continua" in Spanish.

2008 Annual Report Highlights Wake Accomplishments, 11/07/2008 Beginning today, more than 140,000 copies of the 2008 Wake County Annual Report are being distributed to citizens in newspapers and through parks, libraries and human services centers. Themed “Planning, Leading, Achieving” the Annual Report outlines the major accomplishments of the last fiscal year, as well as the present and future impacts of these successes.

Wake to Hold Emergency Training Exercise Nov. 22, 11/06/2008 An emergency training exercise will be held near the New Hope Valley Railway in New Hill on Saturday, November 22, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to evaluate how local emergency agencies respond to a train accident and determine future training and equipment needs.

Business Advisory Council Hosts Sixth Annual Awards of Excellence Luncheon, 11/05/2008 The Wake Area Business Advisory Council (BAC) will host its sixth annual Awards of Excellence Luncheon to recognize the outstanding staff, community partnerships, businesses and participants involved in workforce development in Wake County’s employment and training programs. The ceremony will be held Thursday, November 6, 2008, at 12 p.m., at N.C. State University’s McKimmon Center, 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh.

Wake Board of Elections Extends Barwell Road Community Center's Voting Time to 8:30 p.m., 11/04/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections today unanimously agreed to extend the time for voting at Barwell Road Community Center, 3935 Barwell Road, Raleigh, until 8:30 p.m., due to voting delays that occurred early this morning. The extension is only for this polling place.

Wake Board of Elections to Hold Meeting, 11/04/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections will hold a regularly scheduled meeting today, Tuesday, November 4, 2008, at 2 p.m., at the Board of Elections Office, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. During this meeting, the Board will discuss extending the time for voting at Barwell Community Center, 3935 Barwell Road, Raleigh, by one hour, due to voting delays that occurred this morning.

'Jerry' Attends Board of Commissioners Meeting, 11/03/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners today unanimously approved a proclamation declaring November 2-6, 2008, "National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week" in Wake County. The proclamation recognizes the employees, volunteers and partners of the County's Animal Shelter for their dedication and commitment to the welfare of animals in Wake County. "Jerry," a stray dog who was recently brought to the shelter attended the meeting with staff and volunteers from Wake County Environmental Services.

Mutt Strutt to Take Place Saturday, November 1, 10/31/2008 Wake County's 9th Annual Mutt Strutt, a dog walk supporting the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center, will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Historic Oak View Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The event was originally planned for Saturday, September 6, 2008.

Mutt Strutt to Take Place Saturday, November 1, 10/31/2008 Wake County's 9th Annual Mutt Strutt, a dog walk supporting the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center, will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Historic Oak View Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The event was originally planned for Saturday, September 6, 2008.

Chemistry Fun, Pajamas and Breaking a World Record at Wake Libraries in November, 10/31/2008 Saturday, November 8, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. – Cool Chemistry: Chemistry comes alive at Richard B. Harrison Library with demonstrations with nitrogen and dry ice. Scientist, Dr. Switzer, returns to lead this program for kids ages 6 to 12. For more information, call 856-5720. Richard B. Harrison Library is located at 1313 New Bern Avenue in Raleigh.

White Flag Program Offers Refuge from the Cold, 10/31/2008 Agencies providing shelter for homeless individuals will implement the "White Flag" system on November 1, 2008, and extend it through March 31, 2009, or until inclement weather ends. The White Flag program allows designated homeless shelters to provide capacity beyond the norm.

Wake Board of Elections Approves Extending Early Voting Hours, 10/31/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections today voted unanimously to extend voting hours at all 15 early voting sites to 5 p.m., on Saturday, November 1, 2008.

Wake County Website Seeks Citizen Input, 10/13/2008 Wake County is conducting an online citizen survey, running through Wednesday, October 29, 2008. Following the survey, focus groups will be conducted. Both pieces of research will be used to improve the content, online services, design and features offered through WakeGOV.com.

Wake Board of Elections to Hold Emergency Meeting, 10/30/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections will hold an emergency meeting on Friday, October 31, 2008, at 10 a.m. at the Board of Elections Office, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh, to discuss extending the hours for early voting until 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2008.

Wake History Comes to Life in New Volume, 10/29/2008 Learn about the unique history of Wake County in Wake: Capital County of North Carolina, Vol. II: Reconstruction to 1920 during a book-signing celebration with authors K. Todd Johnson and Elizabeth Reid Murray on Wednesday, November 5, 2008, at 7 p.m., at the Olivia Raney Local History Library, 4016 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The newly released book is a companion volume to the first book which covers Wake County’s history to 1871.

Wake Partners with Animalkind to Offer Low-Cost Spay and Neuter for Pets, 10/28/2008 Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center has contracted with AnimalKind, a Raleigh-based not-for-profit, to spay and neuter needy pets through "The $20 Fix" financial assistance program. The $20 Fix will enable families who may not other wise be able to afford it, to spay or neuter their pets and prevent accidental litters of puppies and kittens, for $20 or less per animal. The program will increase the County-wide pet sterilization level and thus reduce pet overpopulation.

Wake County Human Services Offers Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, 10/23/2008 Individuals who need help paying their heating bills this winter may apply for assistance from the North Carolina Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).

Eastern Wake Housing Fair for Renters and First-Time Homebuyers Set for Nov. 13, 10/22/2008 Come visit Wake County Human Services' Housing Fair, Thursday, November 13, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon. The theme of the 2008 Wake County Housing Fair is "Our New Home, The Journey Continues," or "Nuestra Casa Nueva La Jornada Continua" in Spanish.

Wake County Libraries, Clerk of Court Team to Host Workshops on Legal Issues, 10/20/2008 Wake County Libraries and Wake County Clerk of Court and staff will host a series of workshops on legal issues.

Wake County Human Services Flu Vaccination Clinics to Begin Nov. 3, 10/20/2008 Wake County Human Services will begin conducting flu vaccination clinics at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on the following days: November 3, 4, 11, 13, 18, 20, 24 and 25; as well as December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30.

Wake Book Sale Returns Nov. 19-23, 2008, 10/17/2008 Wake County Libraries' Annual Book Sale takes place at the old Kmart store on New Bern Avenue from November 19-23, 2008.

Wake Works to Protect Public Health at State Fair, 10/13/2008 Wake County will invest more than 650 man hours to ensuring that food prepared and sold at the North Carolina State Fair is safe to eat and that wastewater generated by campers and food vendors is properly managed. In 2007, environmental health specialists permitted and inspected 160 food booths, and 406 campers and other units for temporary sewer and water connections, and expects to issue more permits this year. Members of the media are invited to take photos and conduct interviews with inspectors. To make arrangements, contact Sarah Williamson at 919-856-7532.

Wake Commissioners Restructure Bond Sale, 10/13/2008 Wake County Commissioners voted unanimously today to approve a resolution to restructure the planned October 15, 2008, bond sale and issue a Bond Anticipation Note (BAN) for $300 million. The vote followed a presentation by County Manager David Cooke and the County’s finance team, which included a recommendation to move forward with the BAN for short-term financing to allow certain capital projects to move forward.

Voter Registrations Pouring in to the Wake Board of Elections , 10/08/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections is experiencing an extremely high volume of voter registration and updates, more than 25,000 since October 1, 2008. Processing this volume of applications is expected to cause a delay in mailing some voter registration cards. Cards are not required to vote.

Wake Libraries, College Foundation of North Carolina to Host Workshops, 10/06/2008 Wake County Public Libraries and the College Foundation of North Carolina will host a series of workshops Wednesday, October 15, through Saturday, November 8, 2008. Prospective college students and their parents can attend workshops pertaining to college planning and financing a college education.

Hurricanes to Host Annual Volunteer Celebration, 10/03/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners will hold its 2008 Volunteer Celebration on Sunday, October 5, 2008, at 3 p.m., at the RBC Center in Raleigh. More than 3,500 volunteers and their families will be honored during a Carolina Hurricanes preseason game, against the Nashville Predators.

Wake Celebrates Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month, 10/03/2008 October is Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month at the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center. In an effort to encourage adoptions, the Center is offering a $10 discount on all dog adoption fees for the month. The discounted fee will be funded by the Center’s donations account.

Wake to Offer Free Landscape Workshop, 10/02/2008 Citizens are invited to learn landscaping tips to prepare their yards for the winter and next spring at Wake County’s Fall Landscaping Workshop on Monday, October 6, 2008, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Cardinal Shelter at Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Road, Apex.

Heritage Day to Celebrate Wake County's Unique History, 10/02/2008 http://he State Fair is coming! Get in the fair spirit by attending Wake County Heritage Day, Saturday, October 4, 2007, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh.

Star Wars Characters, Internet Security and Ghost Sightings at Wake Libraries in October, 10/01/2008 Saturday, October 4, 12:30 p.m. – Star Wars! Families are invited to Cameron Village Regional Library to meet characters from the Star Wars movies, including R2-D2 and the Storm Troopers. For information, call 919-856-6710. Cameron Village Regional Library is located at 1930 Clark Avenue in Raleigh.

Get in Gear to Volunteer for 2008 Big Sweep, 09/26/2008 Wake County residents are invited to volunteer for the 2008 Wake County Big Sweep on two upcoming Saturdays: September 27 and October 4, 2008. Volunteers will gather at 27 designated watershed sites in eight municipalities across the county to pick up tons of litter from local streams, rivers, lakes and wetlands.

On-Campus Sixth-Grade Shot Clinics Very Successful; One Additional Clinic for Suspended Sixth-Graders, 09/23/2008 Wake County Human Services is offering an additional Tdap immunization clinic for Wake County students who still need to get the vaccine to stay in school on Wednesday, September 24, 2008, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh. No appointments are needed for this clinic and there is no charge for the Tdap shot. A new North Carolina law requires students entering the sixth grade on or after August 1, 2008, to have a Tdap booster shot if five or more years have passed since their last tetanus shot. The law allows up to 30 days from the start of school for students to meet the requirement before the Wake County Public School System is required to suspend them. The deadline to meet the immunization requirement was September 23, 2008.

Animal Control Announces Rabies Vaccination Clinics, 09/18/2008 Wake Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center will hold rabies vaccination clinics on consecutive Saturdays during the month of September. The remaining clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, September 20, 2008, and Saturday, September 28, 2008, at the Wake Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center, 820 Beacon Lake Drive, Raleigh.

Elmo Scoggin and Betty Moore Named Wake County 2008 Volunteers of the Year, 09/15/2008 Elmo Scoggin, a volunteer announcer at WCPE, a not-for-profit classical music radio station, has been named the 2008 Wake County Larry B. Zieverink Volunteer of the Year. Betty Moore, a devoted unpaid worker and Coordinator of the Wake County Sheriff’s Office Project Lifesaver, has been named the 2008 Wake County Government Volunteer of the Year. Scoggin and Moore accepted their awards today during the Wake County Board of Commissioners’ Volunteer Luncheon at 11:30 a.m., in the Ground Floor Conference Center of the Wake County Office Building.

Wake Board of Elections Sets Early Voting Plan, Launches Website, 09/12/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections finalized its 2008 General Election Early Voting sites, dates, and times during its scheduled board meeting on Monday, September 8, 2008. The plan is designed to make voting as convenient and accessible as possible in Wake County and includes a website, WakeVotesEarly.com.

Wake Commissioners Chair Joe Bryan to Head Investment Delegation to China, 09/12/2008 Joe Bryan, chairman of the Wake County Board of Commissioners and first vice-president of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, will lead a group of Triangle business and government leaders to China on an "Invest Carolina" economic development mission on September 17, 2008.

Wake Growth Issues Task Force to Meet Sept. 18, 09/11/2008 The Wake County Growth Issues Task Force (GITF) will hold its fourth meeting Thursday, September 18, 2008, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., in the ground floor conference center of the Wake County Office Building, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh.

Wake Commissioners to Honor Top Volunteers, Announce Volunteer of the Year, 09/11/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners will recognize the County’s top volunteers and announce the 2008 Wake County Larry B. Zieverink Volunteer of the Year and the 2008 Wake County Government Volunteer during a luncheon awards ceremony in the Ground Floor Conference Center of the Wake County Office Building, 337 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2008.

Unvaccinated Sixth-Graders at Risk of Suspension, 09/10/2008 A new North Carolina law requires students entering the sixth grade on or after August 1, 2008, to have a Tdap booster shot if five or more years has passed since their last tetanus shot. This booster provides protection against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria. The law allows up to 30 days from the start of school for students to meet the requirement. That date will be September 23, 2008. The Wake County Public School System is required to suspend students after that date if they do not meet the immunization requirements. Parents have received multiple mailings from the school system regarding this new requirement, in addition to announcements through the media

From Field to Food: A Fall Harvest Celebration, 09/10/2008 Wake County’s Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, will hold its third annual Harvest Celebration, on September 20, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Citizens are invited to join park staff and volunteers for a fun-filled day.

Babysitting Tips, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Teen Games at Wake Libraries in September, 09/08/2008 Prospective babysitters ages 11 to 15 are invited to attend a workshop at the North Regional Library. Upon completion of the workshop, students will obtain American Red Cross babysitter certification. Participants will also receive a handbook full of information and resources. The fee for the course is $50. To register call the Red Cross at 919-231-1602. North Regional Library is located at 7009 Harps Mill Road in Raleigh.

Wake Closes Emergency Operations Center, 09/06/2008 Wake County officials deactivated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at noon on Saturday, September 6, 2008. Citizens who experience emergencies are asked to call 9-1-1.

Wake to Open Emergency Shelter in Garner Today at 10 a.m., 09/06/2008 Wake County officials, in collaboration with the American Red Cross, will open an emergency shelter at Garner United Methodist Church, 201 Methodist Drive, Garner, at 10 a.m. for individuals impacted by flooding and heavy rains from Tropical Storm Hanna.

Wake Prepares for Tropical Storm Hanna, 09/05/2008 The Wake County Emergency Operation Center (EOC) has moved to a Level II activation and a State of Emergency was declared at 6 p.m. TODAY, Friday, September 5, 2008, in preparation for anticipated severe weather from Tropical Storm Hanna.

New Park Planning Under Way, 09/05/2008 Citizens living in Eastern Wake County are invited to attend a community forum on the new Lake Myra County Park on Tuesday, September 9, 2008, at 7 p.m., in the Wendell Community Center Gymnasium, 601 W. Third St., Wendell. The meeting will focus on design alternatives, giving residents an opportunity to learn about and participate in the planning process for Lake Myra County Park.

Free Tdap Shot Clinic for Rising Sixth-Graders Sept. 13, 09/05/2008 Wake County Human Services and the Junior League of Raleigh are sponsoring Sixth Grade Saturday to provide free Tdap shots as required by law on Saturday, September 13, 2008, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Wake County Public Health Center-Clinic E, 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh. There is no charge for the Tdap booster. No appointments are needed for this special clinic. Parents are asked to bring copies of their child’s shot record.

Mutt Strutt Rescheduled for Nov. 1, 09/05/2008 Wake County's 9th Annual Mutt Strutt, a dog walk supporting the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center, has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Historic Oak View Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The event was originally planned for Saturday, September 6, 2008. Mutt Strutt is being rescheduled in anticipation of severe weather.

Wake Postpones Emergency Training Exercise, 09/03/2008 Wake County will not hold an emergency training exercise on Saturday, September 6, 2008 in preparation for Tropical Storm Hanna. Organizers believe it is in the public’s best interest to have all emergency resources available for the possibility of severe weather and will reschedule the drill. Members of the media will be advised of a new date and time when available.

Wake EOC Activates at Level One in Preparation for Tropical Storm Hanna, 09/03/2008 The Wake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activated at 2:30 p.m. TODAY, Wednesday, September 3, 2008, in preparation for anticipated severe weather from Tropical Storm Hanna. The EOC is monitoring the ongoing situation and is prepared to coordinate emergency response and rescue efforts if needed.

Kinrade Sworn in as New Revenue Director, 09/02/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners today approved the appointment of Marcus Kinrade as Director of the Wake County Revenue Department. The County began recruiting for a new Revenue Director in July 2008, following the retirement of the previous Director, and recently selected Kinrade for the position. He will begin serving in his new capacity immediately.

Job Seekers Invited to Participate in Joblink Career Fair Sept. 17, 08/25/2008 Job seekers are invited to meet with prospective employers at the 2008 Fall Capital Area Joblink Career Fair, Wednesday, September 17, 2008, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the N.C. State University McKimmon Center, 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh.

Wake to Hold Emergency Training Exercise Sept. 6, 08/21/2008 An emergency training exercise will be held near the New Hope Valley Railway in New Hill on Saturday, September 6, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the full-scale training exercise, emergency response personnel will be tasked with treating and removing injured passengers from a train and determining the cause of the incident.

Amateur Photographers Invited to Show Their Best Photos, 08/20/2008 If you've taken some great photos this summer, why not take part in the Second Annual Photography Contest sponsored by Holly Springs Library. This year's theme is "On the Road." Share your favorite photos from your children's sporting events, vacations or even scenic shots from your favorite destinations. You choose the best photos.

Annual Mutt Strutt Sept. 6 to Support Animals in Wake County, 08/19/2008 Wake County animal lovers and their dogs are invited to attend the 9th Annual Mutt Strutt, a dog walk supporting the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center, on September 6, 2008, from 9 a.m. to noon, at Historic Oak View Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The event kicks off World Rabies Awareness month, with $5 rabies shots and $10 microchipping provided. More low-cost rabies clinics will be held each Saturday throughout the month of September.

Wake Supports National Alcohol And Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 08/19/2008 September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, and Wake County will hold a kickoff event Tuesday, September 2, 2008, at 10 a.m., at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The goal of the kickoff event, which is open to County employees and the public, is to promote ongoing discussion in the community about substance use disorders, the effectiveness of treatment and the realistic possibility of recovery.

Citizens Invited to See Replica of 2008 Olympic Torch, 08/08/2008 With the opening games of the 2008 Beijing Olympics just around the corner, Wake County residents are invited to see a replica of the Olympic Torch on Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17, 2008, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the West Regional Library, 4000 Louis Stephens Drive, Cary. Patrons will also have a chance to make their own Olympic torches on Saturday, August 16, at 10:30 a.m.

Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice for Western Wake County Residents, 08/06/2008 Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors on NC 55 Highway, near the intersection with Jenks Rd. A case of rabies was confirmed Wednesday, August 6, 2008, in a raccoon. County officials are investigating the possible exposure of a stray cat that lives near where the raccoon was found.

Enjoy Mother Nature's Gifts at Wake Parks in August, 08/04/2008 Check out these upcoming park events for August 2008.

Family Movies, Senior Fun, Bugs on Stage at Wake County Libraries in August, 07/31/2008 Friday, August 1, 6:30 p.m. – Movie FunFamilies will enjoy the movie, "I Am Legend" at Cameron Village Regional Library. For information, call 919-856-6710. Cameron Village Regional Library is located at 1930 Clark Ave. in Raleigh.

Wake County, Rex to Hold Heart-Healthy Screenings at Blue Jay Point August 9, 07/31/2008 Wake County Parks and Rex Healthcare are bringing state-of-the-art heart and vascular screenings to Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh, on Saturday, August 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Highly trained Rex nurses, doctors and dieticians are offering nine simple screenings that could save your life, and conveniently on a Saturday at your local County park. The cost is discounted at $100 for all nine screenings.

Wake Announces Lake Myra County Park Planning Meeting, 07/30/2008 Members of the media and citizens living in Eastern Wake County are invited to attend a public forum on the new Lake Myra County Park on Thursday, July 31, 2008, at 7 p.m., in the Wendell Community Center Gymnasium, 601 W. Third St., Wendell. The meeting’s focus, Programming and Vision, will give residents an opportunity to learn about and participate in the planning process for Lake Myra County Park.

Wake County to Offer Tdap Clinics for Rising Sixth-Graders, 07/29/2008 Beginning in early August, Wake County Human Services’ Communicable Disease Program will host Tdap Clinics in County regional centers for rising sixth-grade students.

Health Officials Alert Drug Users, 07/29/2008 Over the past week, 12 patients have appeared in Wake County emergency rooms and hospitals who have consumed illegal drugs that may have been contaminated with an unknown agent. The majority of these patients snorted cocaine, though there have been reports of heroin use, as well. Many of the 12 patients have been hospitalized, some in intensive care. Though some were in more serious condition than others, all improved relatively quickly.

Wake County Marks Six-Month Anniversary of Live Streaming Video, 07/23/2008 Wake County will celebrate the six-month anniversary of broadcasting live streaming video of Board of Commissioners (BOC) meetings to the County Web site, WakeGOV.com, using Granicus, Inc. at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2008. The technology has allowed thousands of citizens to become more involved in County government.

Wake County Marks Six-Month Anniversary of Granicus, Inc., 07/21/2008 Wake County will celebrate the six-month anniversary of broadcasting live streaming video of Board of Commissioners (BOC) meetings to the County Web site, WakeGOV.com, using Granicus, Inc. at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2008. The technology has allowed thousands of citizens to become more involved in County government.

Wake County Programs Honored at National Conference, 07/16/2008 Wake County received five awards Sunday, July 13, and Monday, July 14, 2008, during the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. The awards include the prestigious Courthouse Award, presented to Commissioner Kenn Gardner; an Achievement Award for the Spanish radio program Temas de interes para la Comunidad (Topics of Interest for the Community); an Achievement Award for the Historic Preservation Commission Strategic Plan; an Achievement Award for the electronic recording of satisfaction documents; and recognition as one of the top 10 technologically advanced counties in the nation.

Wake Libraries Top 10 Million in Circulation, Record Increase in Reading, 07/14/2008 Reading is on the rise in Wake County's libraries according to recent figures released by library administrators. Wake County libraries circulated 10,390,295 books to library visitors in fiscal year 2007-2008, an increase of 12 percent over last year.

Wake County Fire Department to be Recognized for Increasing Emergency Service, 07/11/2008 Dr. Brent Myers, director of Wake County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), will present the Hopkins Fire Department with an award recognizing the department for increasing their level of emergency care. The presentation will take place on Thursday, July 10, 2008, 7 p.m., at the Hopkins Fire Station, 8933 Fowler Road in Zebulon.

Growth Issues Task Force to Meet July 17, 7/10/2008 The Wake County Growth Issues Task Force (GITF) will hold its second meeting on Thursday, July 17, 2008, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., in the ground-floor conference center of the Wake County Office Building, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh.

Wake Commissioners to Hold Public Hearing on the Little River Reservoir, 07/03/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing related to the Little River Reservoir Water Supply Watershed on Monday, July 7, 2008, at 2 p.m., in the 7th floor conference room of the Wake County Courthouse.

Rogers Named New Deputy County Manager, 07/03/2008 Wake County Manager David Cooke today announced that Budget and Management Services Director Johnna Rogers has been named Deputy County Manager. The County began recruiting for a second Deputy County Manager in March 2008 and recently selected Rogers for the position. She will begin serving in her new capacity on July 7, 2008.

Wizard Rock, Atomic Bomb History and Exotic Insects at Wake Libraries in July, 07/02/2008 Sunday, July 6, 5 p.m. – Wizard RockersEnjoy wizard rock, music inspired by the Harry Potter series, by attending a concert at Eva Perry Library. Bands scheduled to perform include: Draco and the Malfoys, The Remus Lupins, The Whomping Willow and Justin Finch-Fletchley, and the Sugar Quills. These bands travel across the country to display this unique genre created and based on the characters in the Harry Potter books. The event is free and open to all ages. For information, call 387-2120. Eva Perry Library is located at 2100 Shepherds Vineyard Drive in Apex.

Wizard Rock Concert July 6 at Eva Perry Library, 06/30/2008 Come and rock "Wizard" style by attending a concert at Eva Perry Library, 2100 Shepherd's Vineyard Drive, Apex, on Sunday, July 6, 2008, beginning at 5 p.m. Bands scheduled to perform include: Draco and the Malfoys, The Remus Lupins, The Whomping Willow and Justin Finch-Fletchley, and the Sugar Quills. The event is free and open to all ages.

Wake Parks Provide Opportunities for a Natural Summer, 06/30/2008 July programs at Wake County Parks

Wake to Participate in National HIV Testing Day, 06/27/2008 Wake County will offer free and confidential HIV counseling and testing as part of 2008 National HIV Testing Day on Friday, June 27, 2008. This year’s event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Forest Hills Shopping Center, 1339 5th Ave., Garner.

Inmates to Provide Air Conditioning in Wake County, 06/26/2008 The Wake Correctional Center Men’s Service Club will deliver 10 donated air conditioners to the Cool for Wake program in the Wake County Human Services Swinburne Building, 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh, on Friday, June 27, 2008, at 10 a.m. Cool for Wake will distribute the units to citizens in need to provide relief from the heat.

Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice, 06/25/2008 Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the Swift Creek area, on Theys Road between Timber Oaks Drive and Wheeler Bluffs Drive. A case of rabies was confirmed Tuesday, June 24, 2008, in a raccoon. County officials are investigating the possible exposure of the property owner's three dogs whose rabies vaccine status was expired.

Historic Oak View County Park Presents Rural Reunion: A Farm Life Festival, 06/24/2008 Relive life in rural North Carolina in the 1930s during the Rural Reunion on Saturday, June 28, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The event is a celebration of the final weekend of Oak View’s original exhibit, Seeing the Light: How Electricity Changed Rural North Carolina.

Commissioner Kenn Gardner Selected for National Leadership Award, 06/24/2008 Wake County Commissioner Kenn Gardner has been selected to receive the 2008 County Courthouse Award in the Urban Category by the National Association of Counties (NACo). The Award includes $5,000 in scholarship funding that Gardner will present to a Wake County high school senior, made possible by Siemens Corp. Gardner plans to award the scholarship to a foster care graduate.

Early Voting for 2nd Primary Ends Saturday, June 21, 06/23/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections reminds all voters that One-Stop No Excuse Absentee Voting, also known as Early Voting, for the 2nd Primary Election for the Democratic Commissioner of Labor will end at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2008.

Wake Growth Issues Task Force to Meet June 19, 06/18/2008 The Wake County Growth Issues Task Force (GITF) will hold its initial meeting Thursday, June 19, 2008, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., in the ground floor conference room of the Wake County Public Safety Center, 330 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. The meeting will include an overview of the task force process as well as County growth needs, trends and critical issues. During the meeting, members will select approximately three to four critical growth issues.

Wake County Budget on Agenda for Board of Commissioners Meeting, 06/16/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners will discuss the Fiscal Year 2009 budget Monday, June 16, 2008, during its regularly scheduled meeting at 2 p.m., in Room 700 of the Wake County Courthouse, 335 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh.

Wake Board of Commissioners Adopt FY 2009 Budget, 06/16/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners adopted a $984,360,000 budget for fiscal year 2008-09 during their regularly scheduled meeting in the Wake County Courthouse.

Wind-Blown Smoke From Eastern N.C. Wildfire Increases 9-1-1 Call Volume, 06/13/2008 The significant haze and odor of smoke Wake County residents are experiencing is the result of a large fire in Eastern North Carolina, and has resulted in a higher-than-normal level of “smoke odor” calls to the Raleigh-Wake County Emergency Communications (911) Center. While citizens are urged to call 911 if they see smoke or flames coming directly from a structure, vehicle, or wooded area, authorities are asking the public to use care before calling 911 for the smoky haze that is a temporary environmental condition.

Healthy Eating for Teens at Cameron Village Library, 06/13/2008 Thinking of going veggie but not sure how to get all of your vitamins? Are you already following a vegetarian diet but looking for new ideas for delicious meals? Teens in grades 6 to 12 are invited to take part in a healthy workshop Saturday, June 28, 2008, at 2 p.m., at the Cameron Village Regional Library, 1930 Clark Ave., Raleigh.

Wake Encourages Early Tdap Booster Vaccines, 06/11/2008 Wake County health officials are reminding all parents of the importance of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) booster shots for middle school students, and that students entering the sixth grade are now required by state law to receive the shot. Materials, including posters and letters to parents of fifth-grade students, have been distributed through the Wake County Public School System.

Wake County EMS Crews to Return from Wildfire Assistance in Eastern N.C. , 06/11/2008 Personnel from Wake County's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) System are expected to return from a mutual aid mission in Eastern North Carolina on Wednesday, June 11, 2008. The crews from Wake County EMS and Eastern Wake EMS have been part of a task force assisting local residents and emergency responders who are battling forest fires at the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in Columbia, N.C., since Saturday, June 7, 2008. They will be replaced by another Wake County crew that will continue to provide mutual aid.

Cool for Wake Program Seeks Fans, Donations, 06/10/2008 Wake County's Cool for Wake Program is asking for community support so that Cool for Wake can continue providing assistance to low-income individuals who are unable to cool their homes during extreme heat conditions. Anyone can support the program by purchasing fans and donating them to the program or by making tax-deductible monetary contributions.

Wake Reminds Citizens to Stay Cool, Safe in Record Heat, 06/09/2008 As temperatures hit record levels, Wake County citizens are reminded of the illnesses and potential medical emergencies associated with prolonged heat exposure. Heat illness comes in three major forms: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While heat cramps and heat exhaustion generally do not require emergency medical care, heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs, symptoms and treatments for these illnesses are outlined below.

New Park Planning Under Way, 06/09/2008 Citizens living in eastern Wake County are invited to attend a community forum on the new Lake Myra County Park on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at 7 p.m., in the Wendell Community Center Gymnasium, 601 W. Third St., Wendell. The meeting’s focus, Programming and Vision, will give residents an opportunity to learn about and participate in the planning process for Lake Myra County Park.

Cool for Wake Program Provides Heat Relief , 06/06/2008 Low-income individuals who are unable to cool their homes during extreme heat conditions may qualify for Wake County's Cool for Wake program. Through September 2, 2008, Cool for Wake will provide free fans to qualified individuals.

Wake Growth Issues Task Force Set to Meet, 06/06/2008 The Wake County Growth Issues Task Force (GITF) will hold its third meeting on Thursday, August 14, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., in the ground floor conference center of the Wake County Office Building, 337 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh. This is a new date, and reflects a change to the previously publicized schedule. During this meeting the GITF will discuss transportation and mass transit options.

Wake County Parks Announce Summer Camp Schedule, 06/06/2008 Children of all ages are invited to attend Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space’s 2008 summer camps. Please note that preregistration is required for all camps. Registration information is available online at www.wakegov.com/parks or by calling 856-6680.

Eastern Wake Community Forum and Health Fair May 31, 06/05/2008 Residents in Zebulon, Wendell and Knightdale are invited to take part in a community forum and health fair on Saturday, May 31, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Wendell Community Center, 601 West 3rd Street, Wendell.

Wake Emergency System Study Tests AHA Guidelines, 06/04/2008 A new study conducted by the Wake County EMS System finds that recent guidelines outlined by the American Heart Association (AHA) for treatments used by emergency and critical care medical practitioners on cardiac arrest patients has led to substantial improvements in survival rates. The findings show that, when fully implemented, the treatment protocol increased the odds of survival nearly four-fold for victims of cardiac arrest.

Wake to Hold Second Primary June 24, 06/04/2008 All Wake County voting precincts will be open Tuesday, June 24, 2008, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., for the second primary run off for the Democratic Secretary of Labor contest.

Voter Education Workshop at West Regional Library June 2, 05/30/2008 The upcoming general election in November has the potential to be one of the most exciting in U.S. history. Come learn more about the voting process by taking part in a voter information session on Monday, June 2, 2008, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., at West Regional Library, located at 4000 Louis Stephens Drive in Cary.

North Wake Landfill Receives Final Waste, 05/29/2008 Wake County today (May 29, 2008) received and buried the last load of municipal solid waste at the North Wake Landfill, 9016 Deponie Drive, Raleigh. Members of the Wake County Board of Commissioners and the North Wake Landfill Citizens Committee participated in a brief ceremony before the final truck of garbage was deposited. Plans for closing the North Wake Landfill and constructing active and passive recreation facilities at the site were also on display.

Wake Celebrates National EMS Week, Accomplishments in Cardiac Arrest Care, 05/20/2008 During National EMS Week, May 18-24, 2008, the Wake County Emergency Medical System (EMS) will celebrate achievements that show dramatic strides in cardiac arrest care. Recently completed data from 2007 shows that Wake’s EMS System successfully resuscitated 49 people who experienced cardiac arrest – a life-threatening condition in which the heart stops beating effectively.

Wake Manager Presents FY 2009 Recommended Budget, 05/19/2008 The recommended budget for fiscal year 2009 is $984,360,000. This is an increase of $54.3 million, or 5.8 percent, over the fiscal year 2008 amended budget and includes a 2.5 cent property tax increase.

Wake Revenue Department Now in New Location, 05/14/2008 Beginning Thursday, May 15, 2008, Wake County citizens wishing to pay their tax bills in person will need to go to Suite 200 of the Bank of America Building in downtown Raleigh, located at 421 Fayetteville St.

Wake County to Celebrate Anniversary of Larry B. Zieverink Treatment Center May 18, 05/14/2008 Wake County residents are invited to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Larry B. Zieverink Alcoholism Treatment Center, 3000 Falstaff Road in Raleigh, on Sunday, May 18, 2008, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. To commemorate the anniversary guests speakers will share and celebrate their own stories of recovery.

Historic Oak View Presents Memories of Electrification, 05/12/2008 Do you remember your very first experience with electricity? Citizens are invited to share their experiences at “Memories of Electrification” on Wednesday, May 14, and Saturday, May 17, 2008, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive in Raleigh. Wake County historians will record the stories to share them with future generations.

Wake Open and Responsive to State OSH Findings, 05/12/2008 Wake County officials met with N.C. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) personnel Thursday, May 8, 2008, to review the findings of an investigation into the accidental death of David Champion, a Wake County Fleet Master Mechanic, which occurred February 26, 2008.

Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice for Southern Wake County Residents, 05/12/2008 Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the vicinity of the Amherst subdivision, near the intersection of Bells Lake Road and Johnson Pond Road in the Fairview area of southern Wake County. A case of rabies was confirmed Monday, May 12, 2008, in a raccoon. County officials are investigating the possible exposure of the owner of the property and his cat.

Historic Yates Mill County Park to Celebrate Second Anniversary, 05/09/2008 Historic Yates Mill County Park will celebrate its second anniversary with an old-fashioned community picnic event on Saturday, May 17, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh.

Wake Supports Foster Care Month, 05/06/2008 Wake County Human Services will celebrate National Foster Care Month by holding a Foster Care Symposium on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at 7 p.m., at Body of Christ Church, 4501 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh. There are 513,000 children in foster care in the United States, and relatives other than their natural birth parents are caring for over 2.5 million children in the U.S., including over 600 children in foster care in Wake County.

One-Stop Early Voting Best Option for Wake Citizens Who Have Moved, 05/01/2008 The Wake County Board of Elections reminds all voters that One-Stop Early Voting is the quickest and most convenient way to vote, particularly if you have moved since the last time you voted. One-Stop Early Voting for May primary elections will end at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2008. One-Stop Early Voting allows residents to register or update their voter information and immediately cast a ballot.

Telephone Book Recycling Program Ends May 9, 04/30/2008 Time is running out for Wake County residents to recycle their phone books. Wake County Solid Waste Management’s 2008 Telephone Book Recycling Program will end on Friday, May 9, 2008. Since Monday, February 4, 2008, 21 drop-off sites have been available for residents and businesses to recycle old phone books.

Wake County, Transom Development to Open Family Resource Center, 04/28/2008 Wake County and Transom Development, Inc., a subsidiary of SunTrust Bank, will open the doors of a new 2,500 square-foot family resource center in central Raleigh on Friday, May 2, 2008, at 3 p.m. The Cedar Moor Family Resource Center, 2410 Melvid Court, Raleigh, is the result of an innovative partnership between the County and Transom/SunTrust, that will offer the children and their families in Cedar Moor integrated, coordinated and personalized help through tutoring, mentoring, life-skills training, and structured recreational and cultural activities for pre-school, elementary, middle and high school youth and adults.

Antique Auto Show Comes to Historic Oak View Park May 3, 04/28/2008 When was the last time you saw a Cord, Franklin, McLaughlin, Packard or Studebaker? Relive automobile history at the Antique Auto Show on Saturday, May 3, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive in Raleigh.

Eight One-Stop Voting Sites Open Through May 3, 04/25/2008 Eight one-stop voting sites will open in Wake County at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2008. The locations are as follows: One-Stop Site Address Chavis Community Center 505 Martin Luther King Blvd., Raleigh East Regional Library 946 Steeple Square Ct., Knightdale Herbert C. Young Community Center 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary Heritage of Raleigh Independent Living Retirement Community 1200 Carlos Dr., Raleigh Pullen Arts Center 105 Pullen Rd., Raleigh Wake Forest Community House 133 W. Owen St., Wake Forest Wake Technical Community College Main Campus 9101 Fayetteville Rd., Raleigh W. E. Hunt Community Center and Gym 301 Stinson Ave., Holly Springs

Public Invited to Learn About Wake EMS, 04/25/2008 The public is invited to join Wake County Commissioners and learn about the Wake County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system by attending EMS Day at Kroger on Saturday, May 10, 2008, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Kroger store located at 1610 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh. EMS Day at Kroger is free. This is the first of several events planned by Wake EMS in the month of May, recognizing the week of May 18-24 as National EMS Week.

New Park Planning Under Way: Public Meeting April 29, 04/25/2008 Citizens living in eastern Wake County are invited to attend a public forum on the new Lake Myra County Park on Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at 7 p.m. in the Wendell Community Center Gymnasium, 601 W. Third St., Wendell. The meeting is an opportunity for residents to learn about and participate in the planning process for the new Lake Myra County Park.

Wake Encourages Early Tdap Booster Vaccines, 04/23/2008 Wake County health officials are reminding all parents of the importance of Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acellular Pertussis) booster shots for middle school students, and that students entering the sixth grade are now required by state law to receive the shot. Materials, including posters and letters to parents of fifth-grade students, will soon be distributed through the Wake County Public School System.

Farmer’s Corner Now Open at Historic Oak View County Park, 04/18/2008 Historic Oak View County Park is pleased to announce the opening of the “Farmer’s Corner,” in the park’s Farm History Center. The Farmer’s Corner is an interactive area designed to teach children about rural and agricultural life in the early 20th century through hands-on games, puzzles, books and a touch-screen computer.

Protect Native Plants on Earth Day, April 19, 04/18/2008 Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District invites residents to the Second Annual Invasive Species Round-up on Earth Day, Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 9 a.m. to noon at Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife and Learning, 4301 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh.

Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee to Meet April 22 in Raleigh, 04/18/2008 The Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) will meet on Tuesday, April 22, 2008, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m, in the ground floor conference center of the Wake County Public Safety Center, 330 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. The meeting agenda includes a discussion of the Justice Facilities Master Plan, a tour of the Wake County Courthouse and a presentation on the Wake County Justice Center project.

Wake to Host Abstinence Workshop May 3 for Teens, Parents, 04/18/2008 Wake County Human Services' Teen Clinic invites teenagers and their parents to attend "Abstinence: The Pathway to an STD-Free and Healthy Life," on Saturday, May 3, 2008, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh. Students 12 to 19 years of age, and their parents, must preregister for this free program.

Wake Board of Elections Offers One-Stop Sites, Early Voting, Absentee by Mail Options, 04/18/2008 Wake County will operate only one one-stop voting site, until Saturday, April 26, 2008. The site will be at the Board of Elections Office, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. This site will be open: Monday, April 17-Friday, May 2, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, April 27, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eight additional one-stop voting sites will open on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at 10 a.m.

Wake Purchases 685 Acres of Open Space, 04/15/2008 Wake County residents are now 685 acres richer in preserved open space, with the acquisition of the 563-acre Procter Tract in Wake County’s Little River watershed and the 122-acre Sinclair Tract in the Falls Lake watershed. Wake County Commissioners approved the combined $15.3 million acquisition of the lands at their meeting April 7, 2008.

Wake Program to Assist Mentally Ill Receives State Award, 04/11/2008 The Wake County Crisis Intervention Team, consisting of law enforcement, mental health professionals and advocates for the mentally ill, received a 2007 Outstanding County Program Award from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) in March 2008. The County received the award for developing a cost efficient program that addresses the rising number of mentally ill inmates being kept in the county jail.

Protecting Our Children: Gang Prevention, 04/11/2008 Wake County law enforcement works to protect our children each day through the Sheriff’s Gang Investigative Unit. Law enforcement also participates in the Wake County Gang Prevention Partnership’s efforts to promote positive youth behavior in the County. Gang prevention is one of the Board of Commissioners' priority goals for 2008.

Protecting Our Children: Healthy Living, 04/10/2008 Wake County works to Protect Our Children each day through programs such as immunizations, car seat checks and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) talks designed to keep kids of all ages healthy and safe.

Wake Announces Spring Rabies Clinics, 04/09/2008 Wake County Animal Care will hold eight rabies and microchip clinics from April 16, 2008, through May 1, 2008. Clinics will be held in Morrisville, Raleigh, Fuquay-Varina, Apex, Zebulon, Knightdale and Wake Forest.

Wake Guide to Help New and Moving Pet Owners, 04/09/2008 The Wake County Animal Center and the Wake Animal Advocates Group today announced the development of a Wake County Pet-Friendly Housing Guide. The guide provides information on more than 200 apartments in Wake County that accept dogs, cats and other pets. The guide also includes details such as pet fees and weight, and breed restrictions.

Protecting Our Children: Protecting Their Future, 04/09/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners proclaimed the week of April 7-11, 2008, “National County Government and Wake County Government Employee Appreciation Week” in Wake County. The proclamation was made in conjunction with the National Association of Counties (NACo) National County Government Week, which is observed each April. This year, the theme for County Government Week is Protecting Our Children. Wake County works to Protect Our Children each day by protecting their future. Two of the key ways this is done, is through the Feed the Bin (FTB) program and open space preservation.

Wake Commissioners Proclaim County Government Week, April 7-11, 04/08/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners Monday, April 7, 2008, proclaimed the week of April 7-11, 2008, “National County Government and Wake County Government Employee Appreciation Week” in Wake County. The proclamation was made in conjunction with the National Association of Counties (NACo) National County Government Week, which is observed each year during the month of April. This year, the theme for County Government Week is “Protecting Our Children.” Wake County has planned a public education campaign, employee participation and employee appreciation events throughout the week showcasing the work employees do to protect children and young people.

Protecting Our Children: Safe and Healthy Families, 04/08/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners proclaimed the week of April 7-11, 2008, “National County Government and Wake County Government Employee Appreciation Week” in Wake County. The proclamation was made in conjunction with the National Association of Counties (NACo) National County Government Week, which is observed each April. This year, the theme for County Government Week is Protecting Our Children. Wake County works to protect its children each day by providing safe, healthy and loving homes. One way this is done is through foster care and adoptive services.

Gardening Tips, Movies and Watercolor Fun at Wake Libraries in April, 04/03/2008 Wake County public libraries April events.

Making Magic Camps Planned, Sponsors Needed, 04/02/2008 Wake County needs your help to make 2008 a summer of magic for local children. The Making Magic Alliance continues to seek donations and sponsors for 2008 Making Magic Camp scholarships. A $100 donation allows one youth to attend a one-week camp of their choice at no cost to their family.

Bilingual Housing Fair April 18 to Assist Renters and First-Time Homebuyers, 04/02/2008 Are you interested in finding a home you can call your own? Take the first step toward better living by attending the 2008 Wake County Housing Fair on Friday, April 18, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Wake County Human Services Building, 220 Swinburne Street, Raleigh. The theme of the 2008 Wake County Housing Fair is "Our New Home, The Journey Continues," or "Nuestra Casa Nueva La Jornada Continua" in Spanish.

Voter Registration Deadline April 11, 2008, 03/28/2008 Friday, April 11, 2008, is the last day to register to vote, update your address or change affiliation for the May 6 primary election. The voter registration form must be postmarked by, or hand delivered to, the Wake County Board of Elections, 337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh, by 5:00 p.m. on this date.

Wake to Host Acting U.S. Surgeon General March 28, 03/26/2008 Wake County Human Services staff will meet with acting U.S. Surgeon General Rear Admiral Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H., on Friday, March 28, 2008, at Barwell Community Center, 3935 Barwell Road, Raleigh.

Wake to Hold Dirty Bomb Workshop, 03/26/2008 The Wake County Public Safety Fire/Rescue Division will sponsor a Dirty Bomb Awareness Workshop Thursday, March 27, 2008, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Wake County Fire Training Center, 5620 Shearon Harris Road, New Hill. Members of the media are invited to interview law enforcement experts and view displays that will be set up throughout the day.

Parks Announce April Programs, 03/25/2008 April 2008 Parks Programs

Commissioners Approve Schematic Design for New Justice Center, 03/25/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners Monday, March 24, 2008, approved the schematic design for the new Wake County Justice Center. The new Justice Center will be located at the intersections of McDowell, Martin and Salisbury streets in downtown Raleigh. The construction process is slated to begin in 2009.

Wake Area Business Advisory Council Plans Meeting March 27, 03/20/2008 The Wake Area Business Advisory Council (BAC) will meet on Thursday, March 27, 2008, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., at Human Services Center-Swinburne, Room 2149, 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh. Local business professionals, human resources leaders and workforce development professionals are invited to attend BAC meetings.

Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee to Meet in Wake Forest March 25, 03/20/2008 Wake County's Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) will meet on Tuesday, March 25, 2008, at 4 p.m., at the Wake County Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest. The CFAC will receive an overview of Human Services and how the department delivers services. Members will discuss the Human Services Facilities Master Plan, regional centers and the Mental Health Continuum of Care. The committee will also tour the Northern Regional Center.

Wake Supports Child Abuse Prevention Month, 03/19/2008 About 47 of every 1,000 children are reported as victims of child abuse or neglect, and in 2006, 34 children in North Carolina died at the hands of their parents or caregivers. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and Wake County will hold a kickoff event Monday, March 31, 2008, at 3 p.m., in the main lobby of Human Services Center-Swinburne, 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh. The event is open to County employees and the public.

Oak View Presents Electrifying Experience for Kids, 03/18/2008 Children and teenagers are invited to learn how electricity works at Historic Oak View County Park’s "Kids Day: Experience Electricity" on Saturday, March 29, 2008. Instructors from Imagination Station in Wilson will present "Watt’s Happening," a hair-raising program featuring experiments that explore electricity and magnetism, at 10:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m., at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh.

Health Officials Confirm Rabies Exposure in Wake and Franklin Counties, 03/18/2008 Wake County health officials confirmed a case of rabies in a cat Monday, March 17, 2008. The cat is known to have been at the following addresses on the respective dates: 2028 Howson Road, Raleigh (near Fuquay-Varina), March 1-12, 2008 7104 Sandy Pine Drive, Youngsville (Wake County), March 12-14, 2008 Several people in Wake and Franklin counties have begun receiving prophylaxis after being exposed to the rabid cat, including adults and children.

Ben Franklin Exhibit Draws Thousands, 03/14/2008 Ben Franklin continues to be a popular figure among Wake County citizens. Nearly 2,000 library patrons have visited the national traveling exhibition "Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World" since it opened February 15, 2008, at Cameron Village Regional Library.

Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice for Apex Residents, 03/12/2008 Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the vicinity of the intersection of James Street and Tingen Road in Apex. A case of rabies was confirmed Wednesday, March 12, 2008, in a fox. A resident called the Apex Police Department and reported that the fox was acting in an unusual manner. It was later picked up by Wake County Animal Control. The fox is not known to have been in contact with any other animals.

Wake County 'Stand Down' March 27 to Serve Homeless Veterans, 03/10/2008 Homeless veterans in Wake County will have access to more than two-dozen service providers on Thursday, March 27, 2008, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Cornerstone Homeless Services Building, 220 Snow Avenue, Raleigh. Services available during the 2008 Capital Area Homeless Veterans Stand Down include assistance with Veterans Affairs benefits, social services, health care, education, mental health, substance abuse, employment, housing, spiritual care and basic needs.

Wake Revenue Director to Retire, 03/07/2008 Wake County Revenue Director Emmett Curl will retire June 30, 2008. Having served as director for the last 19 years, Curl oversees a staff of 62 and the collection of more than $850 million in property taxes each year. He began working for Wake County in 1973.

Library to Offer Workshops on Water Conservation, 03/06/2008 With spring just around the corner, many gardeners are trying to enjoy nature's beauty, while coping with the lingering drought. Citizens are invited to take part in workshops aimed at dealing with the drought Wednesday, March 19, 2008, and Wednesday March 26, 2008, at 7 p.m., at Cameron Village Regional Library, 1930 Clark Ave., Raleigh.

South Wake Landfill Scales Used During Traffic Stops, 03/05/2008 Wake County’s Solid Waste Management Division has partnered with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol to reduce litter and overweight vehicles on Southern Wake County highways and provide security at the South Wake Landfill, 6300 Old Smithfield Road, Apex.

Warmer Weather and Cool Activities Planned for Wake Parks in March, 02/28/2008 Check out March programs at Wake County parks!

Nintendo Wii Fun, Family Movie Night and MySpace for Parents at Wake County Public Libraries in March, 02/28/2008 Check out March events at Wake County Public Libraries!

Statement from Wake County Manager David Cooke Regarding Feb. 26 Industrial Accident, 02/26/2008 “There was an industrial accident at Wake County General Services Fleet Management at approximately 2:30 this afternoon [Tuesday, February 26, 2008] that, unfortunately, did result in the death of a County employee. "We're not releasing any additional information until we've confirmed that the family has been notified, except to say that there is an OSHA and internal investigation under way, and we're working with all officials to find out what happened as soon as possible. "Wake County cares very deeply about the individual and the family, and that is where our focus is at this time.” Note: Wake County will release additional information as it becomes available.

Wake Libraries Host Teen Scavenger Hunt Online, 02/25/2008 Take part in Teen Tech Week with Wake County Public Libraries, beginning Monday, March 3, 2008, by taking part in an online scavenger hunt challenge! You can play online at any computer or at any Wake County Public Library.

Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee Meets Feb. 26 in Holly Springs, 02/25/2008 Wake County's Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) will meet on Tuesday, February 26, 2008, at 4 p.m. at the Holly Springs Library and Cultural Center, 300 W. Ballentine St. in Holly Springs. The CFAC will discuss the County's master planning, land acquisition, and construction process for open space, parks and recreation, and libraries. The committee will also tour the library and cultural center.

Wake Area Business Advisory Council Hosts Wake Forest Forum Feb. 28, 02/20/2008 The Wake Area Business Advisory Council (BAC) will meet Thursday, February 28, 2008, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., at the Northern Regional Center, Room 163, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest. Local business professionals, human resources leaders and workforce development professionals are invited to attend BAC meetings.

Historic Oak View County Park Sheds Light on History of Electricity, 02/19/2008 Travel back in time and learn what it was like to live in North Carolina before electrification. Wake’s Historic Oak View County Park will present the exhibit "Seeing the Light: How Electricity Changed Rural North Carolina" in the main farmhouse of Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, beginning Saturday, February 23, 2008, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit will remain on display through June 29, 2008.

Citizens Invited To Public Meetings On New Wake County Justice Center Plans, 02/18/2008 Wake County officials invite citizens to attend one of four public meetings in February on the new Wake County Justice Center design. The informational meetings are being held to give interested residents an opportunity to view designs, discuss programs and building features, and provide feedback with County officials and the design team.

Commissioners to Tour Eastern Wake County, 02/15/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners (BOC) will tour the Eastern Wake County municipalities of Knightdale, Wendell and Zebulon on Monday, February 18, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

1,000 Complete Wake's Online Food Survey, 02/15/2008 Wake County Environmental Services' Food Sanitation Section conducted a public opinion survey from January 10-21, 2008. During the 11-day survey, 1,000 people logged onto WakeGov.com to answer questions and provide valuable feedback that will be used to define program priorities.

Citizens' Facilities Advisory Committee to be Briefed on County's Financial Modeling, 02/13/2008 Wake County's Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) will meet on Thursday, February 14, 2008, from 12 to 2 p.m., in the Ground Floor Conference Center at the Wake County Office Building, 337 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh. County Manager David Cooke and Wake County Budget and Management Services Director Johnna Rogers will present the County's financial models for the capital and operating budgets, major facilities fund, solid waste fund, and the fire tax.

UNC-TV Series to Feature Historic Yates Mill, Staff, 02/12/2008 Wake County’s Historic Yates Mill Park will be featured on UNC-TV’s Exploring North Carolina series in February. "Fords and Mills," will air on February 14, 2008, at 8:30 p.m., February 15, 2008, at 9:30 p.m., and February 17, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. The episode will examine the social impact, geology, and geography of ancient river crossings and mill sites across North Carolina. Nearly half the episode is dedicated to Yates Mill.

Wake County to Offer Free Emergency Response, Safety and Environmental Issues Training, 02/11/2008 Business owners, educators and public safety professionals are invited to learn about important environmental, safety and emergency response issues at the Business, Environmental and Safety Training (BEST) Conference on Wednesday, February 20, 2008, from 8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., at the McKimmon Center on the campus of NC State University, 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh.

Telephone Book Recycling Program Begins, 02/11/2008 Wake County Solid Waste Management began its annual Telephone Book Recycling Program on Monday, February 4, 2008, and the program will continue until Friday, May 9, 2008. This year, 21 drop-off sites are available for residents and businesses to recycle old phone books. A list of locations can be viewed online and is posted at all Solid Waste Management facilities.

"Mill as Muse" Photography Exhibit to Open at Wake Park, 02/08/2008 The Second Annual "Mill as Muse" Art Exhibit awards ceremony and reception will be held Friday, February 15, 2008, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh.

Wake Parks Announce Bird Count Programs, 02/08/2008 The 11th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) will be held President’s Day weekend, Friday, February 15 – Monday, February 18, 2008, Programs will be held at Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville and at Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Road, Apex.

Wake County Take Measures to Protect Personal Information of Patients, Staff, 02/07/2008 Wake County has hired National ID Recovery, LLC, a company specializing in monitoring potential fraud cases, after a Wake County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) laptop computer containing the personal information of patients and EMS staff disappeared from the WakeMed Emergency Department on Thursday, January 17, 2008. Private information regarding up to 1,188 patients and 3,545 EMS and Fire/Rescue personnel may be stored on the computer.

Wake Homeless Programs Awarded $1.7 Million, 02/07/2008 Wake County Human Services has been awarded $1,769,543 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund three projects geared toward helping homeless citizens. The funding will come to the County via the Wake Continuum of Care, a local group of agencies that serve the homeless. Wake Continuum of Care received $2,366,654 as part of HUD’s 2007 Homeless Assistance Grant program.

Benjamin Franklin Exhibit Now Open at Wake Library, 02/06/2008 Meet Ben Franklin and learn about his remarkable life and achievements at the Grand Opening of "Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World," Friday, February 15, 2008, at 5:30 p.m. at Cameron Village Regional Library, 1930 Clark Avenue, Raleigh. The national traveling exhibit will be on display Friday, February 15, 2008, through Friday, March 28, 2008, during normal library hours.

Wake County to Host Dirty Bomb Workshop, 02/05/2008 Wake County Public Safety's Fire/Rescue Division will sponsor a dirty bomb incident simulation as part of a Dirty Bomb Awareness Workshop for local emergency responders. The workshop will be held Thursday, March 27, 2008, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, March 28, 2008, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the Wake County Fire Training Center, 5620 Shearon Harris Road in New Hill. The dirty bomb simulation will take place Friday morning, March 28, 2008.

Wake Reminds Citizens to Look for Ticks, 02/04/2008 Tick season is here and Wake County Human Services encourages all citizens to look for ticks on themselves, their family members and their pets. The three main illnesses transmitted by ticks in North Carolina are Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichiosis can be fatal if not treated. In 2007, Wake County had 75 confirmed cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a tick borne illness. North Carolina has the highest number of cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in the country.

Human Capital Development Tops Wake County Commissioners' 2008 Focus Areas, 02/04/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners held its annual planning retreat on Friday, February 1, 2008. At the retreat, which was held at N.C. State University's Wendell H. Murphy football complex, Board members identified focus areas for the development of their 2008 goals. The Board directed County staff to fully develop and refine their goal statements for each subject area and present to the Board for their consideration at their regular meeting on February 18, 2008.

Wake County Libraries to Unveil New Bookmobile, 01/02/2008 Citizens are invited to help Wake County Public Libraries and preschool children "Move that Bus!" to unveil a new bookmobile on Friday, April 11, 2008, 10 a.m., at the Raleigh Nursery School, 1035 Halifax Street, Raleigh.

Citizens Facility Advisory Committee to Look at County Building Programs, 01/28/2008 Wake County's Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) will meet on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Ground Floor Conference Center in the Wake County Office Building, 337 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh. The CFAC will discuss the importance of infrastructure and capital planning, and how Wake County identifies and implements capital improvement plan priorities.

Wake EMS Computer Missing; Protective Response Measures Under Way, 01/28/2008 A Wake County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) laptop computer disappeared from its charging station in the WakeMed Emergency Department on Thursday night, January 17, 2008. Paramedics use laptop computers to create medical reports for download into hospital computer systems when they transport patients to emergency rooms. Exhaustive attempts to locate the missing laptop have proved unsuccessful so far.

Wake Automatic Vehicle Locator Goes Live, 01/28/2008 On Wednesday, January 23, 2008, telecommunicators began dispatching EMS units throughout Wake County using real-time GPS information on exact ambulance location using Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) technology.

Wake Commissioners Streamline School Permit Process, 01/24/2008 The Wake County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved an agreement to assume responsibility for building permitting, plan review and inspections for all Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) projects in the City of Raleigh, and the Towns of Apex, Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell and Zebulon. Both the Blue Ribbon Committee on the Future of Wake County and Wake County Citizens’ Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) made these recommendations in previous reports. The consolidation is expected to make the school planning and permitting process faster, easier and less expensive.

A Sweet Reading List for "Wake Reads Together" 2008!, 01/16/2008 Chocolate and books are a perfect combination. Whether you prefer milk, white, dark or bittersweet chocolate, there's something for everyone, regardless of taste or age. Enjoy it all by taking part in the 2008 Wake Reads Together community-wide reading program. The kickoff event is January 26, 2008, from 2-4 p.m., at the Cameron Village Regional Library, 1930 Clark Avenue, Raleigh.

Commissioners Discuss Wake/Franklin County Line, 01/14/2008 Wake County Board of Commissioners today received information from staff and provided feedback on the location of the Wake/Franklin County Line during its work session in the ground floor conference center of the Waverly F. Akins Wake County Office Building.

Wake Announces Litter Enforcement Program, 01/14/2008 Wake County Commissioners, in conjunction with Sheriff Donnie Harrison, will launch a pilot program to enforce the newly adopted litter ordinance and existing state law on Monday, January 14, 2008, at 1 p.m. at the Wake County Public Safety Center, 330 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh.

Wake Asks Your Opinion on Eating Out, 01/11/2008 Wake County would like your input to help improve the County’s food safety inspection program. Environmental health specialists, also known as health inspectors, regularly inspect restaurants, delis, grocery stores, food stands, caterers, hotels, and other food service facilities to ensure that safe food handling practices are in place to minimize the risk of a food-borne illness or outbreak. Anyone who eats food prepared at a food service facility in Wake County is encouraged to complete the survey online at www.wakegov.com/foodsafety/survey.

Call for Entries for "Mill as Muse" Photography Exhibit, 01/10/2008 Artists are invited to submit their best photographs of Historic Yates Mill and the park land to be featured in the Second Annual "Mill as Muse" Art Exhibit. The deadline for entries is February 1, 2008.

Wake County to Hold Mental Health Consumer Fair, 01/10/2008 Wake County Human Services will host a consumer fair for adults with mental health and substance abuse challenges on Tuesday, January 15, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Wake County Commons building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The fair will connect residents who need information about mental health and substance abuse services and resources to professional staff that can provide first-hand information.

Wake County Opens Northern Regional Center, 01/09/2008 Wake County’s Board of Commissioners opened the new Northern Regional Center (NRC), 350 Holding Avenue in Wake Forest, with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, January 9, 2008. The NRC will begin accepting clients on Thursday, January 10, 2008, and will operate from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Live Video Of Commissioners’ Meetings A Computer Click Away, 01/03/2008 Wake County’s commitment to providing its residents with online services will reach a new dimension Monday, January 7, 2008, when citizens will be able to virtually attend Commissioners’ meetings through live streaming video on their computers through the County website, www.wakegov.com/commissioners

Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice for Southern Wake County, 01/02/2008 Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the vicinity of the South Trails subdivision, at the intersection of Wagstaff Road and Cricket Knoll Road, south of Fuquay-Varina. A case of rabies was confirmed Wednesday, January 1, 2008, in a raccoon killed by a resident in this area on December 31, 2007. The resident who reported the animal also stated a stray dog may have come in contact with the raccoon. The dog was described as 40-50 pounds, and brown in color.