Maybe you’ll get the chance to sit in a Raleigh firetruck — and if you pass the class, you’ll attend a graduation ceremony. | Photos by RALtoday
Editor Patrick here. My wonderful colleagues, Cat and Allie, attended Raleigh Neighborhood College last spring — a free crash course in local government. Along the way, they picked up handy tools, fun facts, and met inspiring local leaders.
Applications for the Spring 2026 course open this November,which runs from March through May on Thursdays, offering virtual and in-person options, with dinner included, and a graduation to top it all off.
Here are just a few of their takeaways:
Government 101
Did you know Raleigh has a Council-Manager form of government? Beginning in 2026, City Council and mayoral elections will shift to staggered four-year terms, so only part of the council is elected every two years. Check your voting district and make sure you’re registered to vote.
Travel + Leisure named Chimney Rock State Park the best in North Carolina, thanks to its panoramic views, animal encounters, and seemingly endless miles of trails. Want a taste of that natural beauty closer to home? Our local parks have plenty of space to hike, picnic, and explore.
Active
The first rule of Robot Fight Club is to read about it in the New York Times. As the artificial intelligence boom continues, humans are gathering to watch humanoid robots fight each other. No, we’re not joking. Make sure you stay ahead of the robots by training at a local gym.
Trending
Taylor Swift is making a lot of bread. The showgirl revealed she likes to mix Funfetti into her sourdough, so Pillsbury joined the party and released a limited-edition Funfetti sourdough mix. Or, you can create your own sourdough at classes around Raleigh. (TODAY)
Answered
Speaking of sourdough. We’ve got some expert bakers among our RALtoday readers, by the looks of things. Some of you think your loaves would win you “The Great British Baking Show.” Editor Patrick here again — I am more than happy to sample any.
Fun Fact
Did you know that persimmons can predict winter weather? Kind of. Appalachian folklore says the shape of the fruit’s seed is an indicator of what the season will bring. If the seed is shaped like a fork, a milder winter lies ahead. A spoon shape is not so fortuitous. (NC Museum of History)
Watch
“Scream 7,” “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” and “Avengers: Doomsday.” Those are three of Rotten Tomatoes’ most anticipated movies expected in 2026. If you need something to watch in the meantime, we recommend these movies filmed in Raleigh.
Festival
Festival season is in full swing. Whether your thing is art, food, music, or all three, there’s a festival in Orange County, NC, for you. With something happening almost every weekend through November, planning a weekend getaway has never been easier. See what’s in store.*
Cause
Attention Wolfpack: let’s give local. Donate blood on campus to help your neighbors in need. Find a campus location near you September 29t through October 3 and receive $40 in TBC rewards.*
Drink
Craving a sweet pick-me-up?This indulgent milkshake blends rich hazelnut coffee, creamy vanilla ice cream, and crunchy Double Stuf Oreos for a dessert that’s both energizing and satisfying.*
This is your last call to take advantage of our early bird deal + get 20% off your business’s spot in our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. Use code EARLYBIRD20 before it expires on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Finance
This versatile card has quickly become a favorite for many. With no annual fee, 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2026, and up to 5% cash back on everyday purchases, it’s easy to see why it stands out.Explore the perks.*
Jobs of the Week
In honor of our Raleigh’s Neighborhood College shout out, we want to show even more love to Oak City and its employment opportunities:
We love the vibes at The Optimist — the space is a perfect escape for those who work from home. | Photo via RALtoday
Happy National Coffee Day, Raleigh. You can take the totally serious holiday as your excuse to grab some of the finest caffeine in town this Monday morning.
New World Cafe
Order an acai bowl with your Counter Culture or Black & White Coffee — plus, there’s a drive-through.
Perfect for a date
Idle Hour Coffee Roasters The epitome of cool — drink your in-house roasted coffee and snack on delicate treats under the disco ball at this funky Oberlin spot.
Specialty drinks
La Horchateria
Nosh on traditional Latin drinks + sweets with an American twist like the oatchata and tres leches lattes.
Where to write your novel
Blackbird Books & Coffee
Explore this safe space for new reads, drink specialty coffee, and mingle through events. Pro tip: Check their Instagram for monthly events.
Something to make your morning coffee ritual last longer this cool-weather season: a temperature control mug, rated 4.7 stars and currently 10% off. This smart mug lets you control your beverage’s temperature down to the degree, with auto shut-off technology after two hours.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
