Canceled

Canceled

Take a look at these interestingly illegal license plates.

“QITBTCHN” because you can’t put whatever the heck you want on your license plate—since more than 200 terms, most having to do with sexual orientation (i.e. GAYPRIDE, QUEER and others), have just been taken off the nearly 10,000-term list of disallowed personalized plates. Clearly, rude, weird or random language is still not for the NC streets as it would turn out—from potty language—like, actually—such as P00PCAR, P00PSHIP and LUV2FART to terms like GSPOT, B!TE ME and NUTWAG0N (come on, @NCDOT it’s at least a little funny). So whether or not your ride is trunk heavy, there’s no if, ands or BUTT(s) about it. … But, hey, at least we are allowed some creative liberties—you’ll find about 300,000 vanity plates zooming around the state, but it’ll cost ya a little extra to ride in signature style (aka a $30 upfront cost and annual renewal fee). … Well, DAYUMM.

Adora-bubble

Adora-bubble

Making magic in the form of some big ’ol bubbles, find local legend Ken Thomas popping up around town (you might catch him at the NCMA or at Lake Johnson around sunset) for no reason other than to create massive bubbles for (’Gram-worthy) public enjoyment… and we aren’t gonna burst his bubble(s) anytime soon. BRB, drowning our troubles via this good Samaritan’s beautiful colorful soapy orbs. Pop off! @raleighbubbleman

Local Champion

Local Champion

Raleigh rising star debuts his latest film alongside Woody Harrelson. 

Alexa, play “We Are the Champions.” … Let us introduce you to rising celeb and champion of his own caliber, Kevin Iannucci. In his most recent work, Champions (dropping March 10), Iannucci plays Johnny—a member of a team of basketball players with intellectual disabilities—opposite Kaitlin Olson and Woody Harrelson, the latter of whom stars as a former minor league coach with a court order to manage the group. 

A Raleigh native and rising Hollywood star with Down syndrome, Iannucci has been acting since the tender age of 7 (see appearances in Embattled, The Best of Enemies and Changeover, as well as several short films made by Iannucci’s older siblings Drew and Daniel). To boot, he’s also developed his acting chops through involvement with S.T.A.R Special Theatre Arts of Raleigh, and acting classes at North Raleigh Arts and Creative Theatre and Moonlight Stage Company. 

“I wanted to become an actor because I would watch TV and movies, and I wanted to see myself in them,” explains Iannucci. “And working with Woody and Kaitlin was magical. Being on set with them everyday was a dream come true. And Harrelson’s great! He’s always helpful, supportive and funny.”

Kevin Iannucci

For another point in his favor, the feeling is mutual from his co-stars/director. “Kevin is a real thespian,” says Champions director Bobby Farrelly. “He has impeccable, natural acting instincts, and he’s got great comedic timing. He’s an absolute star. It was unbelievable to watch him go up against legends like Olson and Harrelson and be able to hold his own.” Olson, who stars as Johnny’s sister, Alex, adds, “Working with Kevin was so delightful. This guy is so loving, so warm and incredibly talented. He is truly an amazing actor.” 

Besides bonding with big-name actors with whom he shares the screen, Iannucci has received a slew of support from his hometown. And he still touts a local address, so you can find him out and about at one of his favorite places (GameStop, Target or Walmart)—or playing soccer, going swimming and shooting hoops… just like his movie character (!).  Fun fact: Iannucci is also a proud grad of Millbrook Magnet High School, where he managed the varsity baseball team.

“He’s had a lot of help here in Raleigh through programs, coaching, and his friends and family,” says Iannucci’s mom, Anne. “It’s been a really good support system.”

And this actor’s got big goals for the future. With plans to continue his acting career, Iannucci hopes to one day star on the screen alongside Zac Efron, Selena Gomez or Kevin Hart. 

For now, though, you can see the rising star shoot his shot on the big screen by grabbing tix to this heartwarming film (bonus points if you go during Down Syndrome Awareness Week, which kicks off March 15!).

“It can make you laugh; it can make you cry; and it’s a feel-good movie because I’m in it!” adds Iannucci. … Sounds like a slam dunk. @official_nuccinator 

Wake County Government Rebrand

Wake County Government Rebrand

Wake.gov

“We Found Love”—er, we found .gov? The morning of Valentine’s Day—and a couple days after the Super Bowl—Wake County Government nodded to Queen Ri Ri’s stellar halftime performance to announce its new wake.gov url.

While the internet is not always a hopeless place, “Any Girl in the World” can tout a .com web address. … But .gov sites are specially reserved for those who are in tight with the Department of Homeland Security. 

With the new name, Wake County has ensured the community can access the website and its resources more safely, simply and quickly—and guarantees you can trust the links they send. Alexa, play “What’s My Name”? wake.gov

Retail Fix

Retail Fix

March into Women’s History Month with styles, accessories and yoga sessions via these fave Raleigh female-owned spots for your retail fix. 

Ready to go back to the basics in this retail fix? For the subtle accessory wearer,  Lunae offers a slew of stylish pieces suitable for work and play. shoplunae.com

retail fix

Calling all yogis! Yoga Soullective is a place to move, meditate or just be. And with natural light, hardwood floors and exposed brick (what a vibe!) setting the scene, it’s easy to both breathe and belong. Om, see you there?! yogasoullective.com

All the buzz, Paper Buzz features an eclectic array of stationery and other fun gifts—from formal to funky and everything in between (think candles, socks, blankets and other fun knickknacks). Next birthday, anniversary or bridal shower gift, found. @paperbuzz

retail fix

Compassion is always in style at DTR’s Fifi + Talbot boutique (!). With an emphasis on eco-authenticity, this women’s boutique boasts jewelry, bags and ’fits fit for the ethical fashion queens. #Slay! fifiandtalbotboutique.com

From the mind of NC State grad Sophie Wiseman-Floyd is Heir Raleigh, supplying local gals with durable, high-quality and cute jewelry that elicits a classy vintage vibe. BRB, adding everything to cart. heir-raleigh.com

retail fix

Here comes the bride… and here comes The Maxwell, a wedding/event venue showcasing a contemporary and charming ambiance with versatility to transform and satisfy myriad visions for the space. *Adds to Pinterest board themaxwellraleigh.com

Want some more Retail Fix? Cilck here and here to find more retail spots you’ll love.