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Editor’s Pick
🏟️ New Lenovo renderings
The Lenovo Center will see some serious upgrades over the next few years, including a new exterior facade. | Renderings via Lenovo Center
The Centennial Authority, NC State, and the Hurricanes released more plans + renderings for the future of the Lenovo Center, including a refreshed exterior and additional fan spaces, promising a top notch NHL and college basketball experience.
Here’s what’s coming:
🍻 A 365-day beer hall + restaurant on the south end of the arena
🛍️ A new team store on the southwest side with three times the square footage of the current store
✨ An overhauled + upgraded PNC Club Level
💺 Refreshed lower bowl seating, including a new aisling for the 100-level
3️⃣ Third-level concourse updates, including another grab-and-go concession area and new bathrooms
And that’s not all. Outside of the arena, a new sports + entertainment district is taking shape with tailgating suites, new parking garages, a 150-key hotel, and more.
Stellar surprises await at this out-of-this-world event. | Photo courtesy of Mayland Earth to Sky Park
Calling all stargazers: Celebrate International Dark Sky Week on April 17 + 18 at Burnsville’s inaugural Dark Sky on the Square.
Mayland Earth to Sky Park’s astronomers and local club volunteers will guide visitors through the constellations from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Main Street shops will offer extended hours and stellar surprises. Pro tip: Don’t forget to indulge in cosmic-themed food + drinks from local eateries.
Take a peek at the renderings for the new North Hills Jubala location in the Main District. We’re already obsessed with the outdoor section.
Sports
If the Canes won last night against the Blue Jackets, they’ll have clinched their eighth consecutive Stanley Cup playoff berth. Check the score.
Today Is
First Friday. Ring in April with a Moore Square scavenger hunt from the Downtown Raleigh Alliance for eight $25 gift cards for downtown businesses. Follow along on Instagram for your first clue.
Number
$1,092,000. That’s how much federal funding is going toward restoring Rocky Branch Creek at Dix Park. The project will free up more greenspace, prevent flooding, and provide a direct path from downtown Raleigh to Gipson Play Plaza.
Watch
NC State students watched Artemis II launch with three-time Wolfpack alum Christina Koch on board. See their reactions to the historic launch. (WRAL)
State
Reese’s Pieces Easter Gift Bag is the most popular Easter candy in North Carolina, according to DoorDash. The study also found that North Carolinians prefer blue Peeps, and we’re in good company — 16 other states agree.
Pro Tip
If you’re a Costco shopper, you’re probably familiar with the ever-popular $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Don’t miss the details on vacation deals, members-only movie tickets, and more.*
Try This
🌎 Yay! for Earth Day!
Join us and The Great Raleigh Cleanup to celebrate Earth Day. | Graphic by The Great Raleigh Cleanup
The Great Raleigh Cleanup is throwing an Earth Yay! bash on Saturday, April 18 — and we want to see you there to celebrate the earth.
Start the day with a free morning movement (don’t forget your mat) followed by a cleanup of Coastal Credit Union Music Park. Allie here — I’ve helped clean up the amphitheater with The Great Raleigh Cleanup in the past, and you’re sure to find some interesting litter.
After that, head to the Earth Day Fair from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and shop from eco-friendly vendors including Umbrella Dry Bar, Autumn Cobeland’s art, henna, and more. Plus, learn from eco experts like Trees from the Triangle.
And one more thing. The Great Raleigh Cleanup is looking to raise $30,000 through April 22 to continue their mission of a litter-free Raleigh and support The Workforce, which provides living wages to unhoused residents — donate now.
Psst... the team is still looking for more food trucks for the event. Send a message to info@raleighcleanup.org — and tell them RALtoday sent you.
The Buy
April = new spring shoe drop. Shop a great spring shoe for every price range:
👟 Under $25: A No. 1 best-seller, these arch support flip-flops feature a yoga foam footbed and just look like vacation.
👟 Under $50: This cushioned footbed sandal is ultra-comfortable, thanks to soft leather, a small platform, and an adjustable web strap (it’s also 50% off).
👟 Under $100: Go for fresh white tennis shoes with Vionic’s court sneaker that’s top-rated by 200+ five-star reviews.
👟 Under $150: Get ready to hear compliments when you wear Clarks’ newly dropped floral wedge, available in black, white, or red.
👟 Under $250: This newly released wedge espadrille from patricia green is worth the splurge, thanks to its chic nautical design and sporty grip sole.
This weekend, I’m taking a day trip to one of my favorite NC cities, Winston-Salem — I can’t stay away from Camino Bakery for too long. Like the Twin City as much as I do? Subscribe to WStoday.
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