What has long been one of my favorite traditions in downtown Raleigh, First Friday, has come and gone again. Every month, galleries downtown open up their new exhibits and Raleigh’s budding creative class, as well as other visiting artists, get to display their new work for everyone to see. This month had all the conditions to make it an exceptional showing, both for Bike First Friday, and for First Friday in general. Friday night had everything – great weather, enthusiastic people, and bikes. And more bikes. And then about 20 more on top of that – 114 total, and to my knowledge that’s the most we’ve ever had. Now, don’t get me wrong, this is NOT about sheer volume, it’s about a group of people getting together to promote art, alternative transportation, and community in a way that anyone of any age can appreciate. It’s great to have the numbers, but it’s the people that make this event rock. I’m digressing, so, here are some images of cool people, places and things encountered on First Friday:

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The phrase ‘Latte art competition’ sounds a trifle esoteric, but those who have tried their hand at creating what is known as a rosetta know how difficult it can be.  A rosetta is the fern or tree shaped design seen atop lattes poured by only the most passionate and skilled baristas. Pouring good latte art is almost like throwing pots. Remember the feeling you had as you watched the potter pull up the sides of the vessel, shape it, trim it?  For me and many others, it was the distinct feeling of somehow naturally possessing the ability to throw a pot.  “OK, now let me do it.”  Flop. Fail.

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Straddling a line between purely physical gaming components (such as foosball) and electronic gaming (traditional microprocessor controlled video games), pinball occupies a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in the era prior to computer and home console video games. Although I grew up with computer and console games, my first job was at a video arcade where I spent many nights cleaning and repairing coin-operated pinball machines.

Shortly after being reminded of this sentimental favorite, I embarked on a cross-town quest to play every pinball machine I could find.

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