Community Corner
Downtown Rebound + Soccer For All + Swaying Vaccinations
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Happy National Ice Cream Day,
The news I have for you includes a tragic incident at Duke Raleigh's Hospital, a group of lawmakers seeking access to voting machines, as well as some info on what's happening downtown. That and some great Sunday activities below, check it out.
Today's weather: Rain starting in the afternoon. High: 87 Low: 74.
Here are the top stories today in Raleigh:
- Mary Helen Albrecht of Angier died Friday afternoon in the parking deck of Duke Raleigh Hospital on Wake Forest Road. Albrecht tripped over a speed bump in the parking lot and fell onto her back. Before she was able to get back up, a car that was descending the parking deck structure began to turn onto the first level of the deck, and due to visual impairments was unable to see her on the ground. Albrecht, who was in her 70s, died at the scene after being dragged about 100 feet. (CBS17)
- NC Freedom Caucus lawmakers are trying to gain access to voting machines in order to reassure constituents that North Carolina elections are secure. The members of the Freedom Caucus include a handful of House Republicans, all of whom were elected in 2020. State Elections Director Brinson Bell emphasizes that federal and state laws do not permit lawmakers to access the internal workings of voting machines, but is prepared to cooperate within the reach of the law. (WITN)
- The move to remote work is taking a toll on Raleigh's downtown economic rebound. With many offices still operating remotely and therefore vacant, businesses have not seen the same foot traffic of the old downtown bustle. Bill King, president and chief executive of Downtown Raleigh Alliance, hopes that the activities taking place downtown will help accelerate the rebound over the next few months. (WRAL)
- The North Carolina vaccine lottery has announced two winners for the $1 million prize, as well as two $125,000 scholarship winners, however vaccination rates have been dropping. A new study found no evidence that the lottery-based incentive in Ohio was actually contributing to the rise in vaccinations. (abc11) North Carolina has seen an increase in vaccinations among minorities, however the credit for those numbers belongs more to community-based organizations. More evidence and personal testimonies show that the chance for $1 million has swayed few, while getting the chance to learn about the vaccine and have myths dispelled has influenced more. (CBS17)
- Raleigh's downtown gained a fun new addition in City Plaza on Fayetteville Street. Raleigh Parks and The Bucy Foundation partnered together with other organizations to bring a pop-up soccer field to downtown. This field is the first of a goal of 25 fields attempting to make soccer accessible to everyone in Raleigh. This weekend the field will host a NCFC Youth Tournament, and more events to come. (CBS17)
Today in Raleigh
- Rhythm and Brunch: Live music + Tin Roof's brunch menu featuring their Bloody Mary bar. (12:00 pm-3:00 pm)
- Beer Garden Olympics: compete in cornhole, water balloon dodge ball, trivia, beer pong, and more. (12:00 pm-4:00 pm)
- Local Band + Local Beer: Free show with 6 bands at The Pour House (12:00 pm-8:00 pm)
- Classic Car Cruise-In's by Raleigh Car Shows at Char-Grill on Atlantic Ave. (3:00 pm-8:00 pm)
- Pokémon Go Fest Pokéwalk event: Pretend it's July 2016 again and everyone's getting together to lure up and try to catch 'em all. (10:00 am-11:00 am)
Raleigh Patch Notebook
- In honor of National Ice Cream Day, check out the deals you can score from local ice cream spots. (Triangle On The Cheap)
- NC State researchers have created insecticide-free clothing that can prevent mosquito bites when worn. (WRAL)
- Pools have not cut hours, but are limiting amenities as a result of lifeguard shortage. (CBS17)
- NCDHHS issued a warning for people to be aware of heat-related illnesses and symptoms. (abc11)
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Gigs & services:
- Paid Jury Focus Group July 19-20 by Zoom (Details)
Alright friends, now you've got the tools, go make something out of your day. Sunday is the best day to do something for you. Whether you sabbath, or you just like to unwind before you head back to work, I hope you get to relax how you like today. There's always something happening in Raleigh, don't experience it secondhand.
— CJ Fullford
Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Raleigh Daily? Reach out anytime to raleigh@patch.com.