We have another round of wintry weather in store for us on Friday. At this time, the atmosphere is setting us up for what meteorologists call a wintry mix across the region, which means a little bit of everything. So, what determines whether we get snow, sleet, or freezing rain? The answer is over our heads, literally.

Today's the first day of spring and Rita's is celebrating.

The chain that serves up Italian ice is giving everyone who stops in a free regular-size Italian ice. Your choice of flavor!

The giveaway, a 19-year tradition, runs from noon until 9 p.m. Last year, Rita's gave away 1.2 million cups of Italian ice. Click here to find a nearby location.

Who doesn't like a freebie? Especially when the freebie involves food.

We've been on a roll lately with free food offers from a variety of restaurants, including Panda Express, Bruegger's, Burger King and Papa John's.

The good news is this: there's even more to come.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming food freebies:

Food Lion is distributing free bags of ice at four of its stores in communities affected by Hurricane Irene, beginning immediately and while supplies last.  Each location has a full truckload of ice, about 4,000 bags. The locations are:

U.S. 64 and La Keiser Road, Columbia, N.C. 

5200 South Croatan Highway, Nags Head.

101 Park Drive Highway 168-S, Moyock.

1316 North Broad St., Edenton.

The remains of Tuesday's snow storm lingered for another day in the Triangle, causing road problems and another holiday for students. Submit your ... more