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:

Read more »

Today, President Obama came to Raleigh to discuss his new healthcare plan with the people who were lucky enough to get tickets from his lottery. The reasons he chose Raleigh over other cities in the region could be debated by many, and I’m not here to really elaborate on all that. I’m just glad he decided to swing by and discuss his new healthcare plans. Plus, he made a major plug for the local cupcake bakery, The Cupcake Shoppe on Glenwood Avenue. The owner of the Shoppe had the privilege of introducing Mr. Obama, and his first comments were addressing the fact that she brought him a Cupcake Shoppe t-shirt, but no cupcakes!

Read more »

If you’ve never been to a Kirby Derby, as I hadn’t until today, you have no idea what you are missing. There are certain unalienable facts about this event that make it really, really fun, and wacky, and absurd, and ultimately memorable.

Read more »