What local news did RALtoday miss over winter break?

From sporting events and accolades to new bar openings, here is what local news RALtoday missed — from Dec. 22, 2023 to Jan. 1, 2024 — while we were busy celebrating the new year.

The Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot.

The Pop-Tarts mascot was seen dancing, wreaking havoc, and later, being eaten.

Screenshot via ESPN College Football on YouTube

While your City Editors were celebrating the New Year offline, we were excited to get back and report a few happenings in the City of Oaks. Here are some local news highlights:

  • Though NC State’s football team didn’t get a chance to take a bite out of the inaugural edible trophy, the Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot was berry entertaining.
  • Speaking of the Wolfpack, the women’s basketball team won its first conference game of the season 72-61 on the road against Virginia, holding its undefeated record.
  • For the first time since Nov. 20, 2017, the National Hockey League named a Canes player, forward Sebastian Aho, as NHL’s “First Star” of the week. Aho earned 11 points in three games from Dec. 27 to Dec. 30.
  • Switching gears to development news: Hoffman & Associates announced retail additions coming soon to Seaboard Station including wellness concepts Sweathouz + Body Fit Training, and a 1840-sqft Starbucks set to open in Spring 2024.
  • Umbrella Dry Bar opened its doors for first sips on New Year’s Eve — you can make a reservation to stop in for a non-alcoholic drink this Friday, Jan. 5.
  • The City of Raleigh launched a handy dandy Guide to the City’s Top Issues to keep Raleighites in the loop about important community happenings.

Did we miss something? Let us know.

More from RALtoday
With the Winter Olympics well underway, we’re craving an Italian day without having to leave the 919. Here’s how to have a Milanese staycation right here in Raleigh.
The annual Great Backyard Bird Count attracts over a million bird lovers nationwide to help record the bird population — here’s how you can get involved in Raleigh.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Don’t be caught empty-handed — use our guide to classic gifts fit for your sweetheart right here in Raleigh.
Dig into Raleigh’s must-try pizza shops including NC State hangouts, high-end Detroit-style pizza, and bagel shops moonlighting as pizzerias. Whatever style you prefer, there’s pizza in Raleigh for you.
Move aside pickleball, there’s a new racket sport in town.
Get your hats and mittens — it’s finally snow season in Raleigh. While the 919 isn’t known for its wintery weather, we’re holding out hope for some history-making snowfall soon.
The Super Bowl is right around the corner, and we’ve got five local sports bars to catch the big game at with everything from raffle prizes to a soup showdown.
Plan your next snowy adventure with these 10 resorts to ski, snowboard, and tube within five hours of Oak City.
The Olympics are nearly here, and there are plenty of Olympians with local ties, from NHL players to college students.
Raleighites can get around town and the greater area through GoRaleigh and GoTriangle. Learn how to ride the bus in Raleigh for public transportation through Raleigh + the greater Triangle.