Once the news broke of Obama’s projected victory, those crowded in the Raleigh Times erupted in celebration and happiness.

Minutes later, the corner of Hargett and Wilmington Streets were filled with people dancing, clapping, and hugging one another. There were celebrations across other parts of downtown too.  Be sure to check out New Raleigh for more photos and coverage of people filling the streets upon hearing the news.

The man facing the camera was overcome with emotion at the news. He had the following to say to me and Jeremy (foreground):

Y’all don’t know what this is about. This is something else. I went to Vietnam and could not eat in a motherfucking restaurant. I was told “Sir, you can’t go in here”. I remember going to the Raleigh Sandwich Shop and having to go in the right door. In 1971 there were National Guard troops along all the streets.

Read more »

If you’ve been downtown recently, you’ve seen a Barack Obama poster in some shop window or on a building’s wall. For some time (in the rain) I was looking for a poster supporting one of the other presidential candidates – and I found none. Eighteen buildings are pictured in this article, and every one them is promoting Sen. Obama.

Many downtown buildings (such as the two pictured above) are owned by Greg Hatem of Empire, who has publicly endorsed Sen. Obama with a rather large light. Those aren’t the sole source, however. There are many other small business owners promoting their choice for president in their shop windows too.
Read more »

Tucked underneath a nondescript building off of Salisbury Street across from the Wachovia tower lies Tha Basement Studios. They specialize in both recording and producing. They just recently opened for business, and offer sessions for $40 per hour.

Read more »