Capitol Broadcasting - tv, radio, web, mobile - has promoted the dickens out of this event, but I have to admit that I was surprised (and relieved) at the crowd on Friday as the festivities began.
12,000 people were in the Raleigh convention center for the Fan Fair. An NHL staffer said that was a record for opening day. Meanwhile, Fayetteville St. and City Plaza were packed with people for the All-Star Wide Open outdoor activities.
I like the story Carolina Hurricanes owner Pete Karmanos was telling yesterday: the Triangle is no longer to be considered a non-traditional hockey market. The Canes have won the Stanley Cup, the NHL draft was here and now our community is hosting the All-Star Game. That's as traditional as it gets!
Here's a recap from WRAL TV5...
