White Collar Crime - Part 2

Kelly

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Sean

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Wes

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Mike

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Of all the bars/clubs in Raleigh, the bartenders at White Collar Crime are definitely the most talented. I tended bar for more than two years, and I was no where close to where these folks are in terms of talent and experience. Even though every spot of the bar was filled with people, they don't keep you waiting long for your next drink.
In addition to being extremely attentive, they are also skilled at flair, meaning they are good at juggling/balancing/flipping liquor bottles, bar tools, etc. during the course of preparing a cocktail for a guest. There aren't many of these in Raleigh, but White Collar Crime has almost an entire staff skilled at this art.
The bartenders here are more than service workers tending guests, they are a performance that blended in seamlessly with the DJ and the crowd. While in sync with various buildups/breakdowns of dance tracks, they will throw a stack of napkins in to the air, or blow fireballs against the wall. It is really quite a performance.

319 W Davie St
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 828-0055
Get directions

White Collar Crime - Part 1

This was the first time I'd ever been to white collar crime, and I must say I sorely regret not having been sooner. This place is certainly something out of the ordinary, and worth checking out if you are looking for a high energy night with great music and a fantastic vibe. The building itself has always intrigued me, as it has served as something else long ago, and you can see the history in the walls and windows. Outside is the unique identifier--the unmistakable blue thumbprint (sadly not pictured).
From the permorming artist bartenders on staff, to random bursts of napkins exploding in the air, a consistently packed crowd, to outdoor seating, and great DJs--this place has it all. This was probably one of the most memorable spots covered for this blog. The author votes it the best club in Raleigh.
Every Wednesday you get to be the DJ--bring in your iPod with 5 tracks ready or use theirs loaded with 30,000.

319 W Davie St
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 828-0055
Get directions

Blackbeard's Crew Invades Raleigh

The folks pictured above are a part of Blackbeard's Crew. According to the web site,

Blackbeard's Crew is a living history performance group dedicated to the accurate representation of seafaring life in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, specifically 1690-1720. Blackbeard's Crew was founded in the year of our lord 2000.

They weren't gathering for raiding and/or pillaging, but to celebrate the publishing of Kevin Duffus's book, Shipwrecks of the Outer Banks The Last Days of Black Beard the Pirate, available on his web site. There are quite a few pirates in Raleigh. If you haven't seen them, you aren't looking hard enough.

The Street Genie

This man was belting out some beautiful sounds on the corner of Hargett and Wilmington Streets on Friday night. The Street Genie is the name he gave me, and I can understand why after listening for a few minutes. He wanted me to make sure the lady in the background was in the picture, and I happily obliged.

Overlooking The Riviera

So this makes the second time in one month that I have featured the Riviera. I also did back in August. It's a great bar/restaurant on Wilmington Street.

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The End Of West Davie: Sin City

I know nothing about Sin City, and their web site goes nowhere. According to their MySpace page the name has been changed to LC's downtown. The new MySpace page (warning! bad pop country music auto-plays) says Sin City. I'm not sure what the current name is. I haven't been to this side of town in a while so I'm not sure what the sign out front says.

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A Night At Tir Na Nóg

Caroline and Katie, two lovely bartenders

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The first thing that comes to mind about this place is the pronunciation of the name. I've heard three variations since living in Raleigh, and I'm sure there may be more. The variations are:

• Teer-Nah-Noh (long "o", silent "g")
  
• Teer-Nah-Nahg (short "o")
  
• Teer-Nah-Nogue (long "o")
  

Even when a friend of mine tended bar here for a while and used the correct pronunciation in conversation, people still got it wrong. Even though there are ads on the radio, people still get it wrong. Now I must admit that I used the "Nahg" pronunciation for some time. Notice on the first picture how the o in "Nóg"has an accent over it. According to an Irish author enlightening readers, ó is pronounced ’o’ as in low.
So if you were using any of the other pronunciations, you now know the correct one.
And by the way, Tir Na Nóg is a great pub, definitely worth checking out any day of the week.

A Night At The Riviera

Dan and Christiana celebrating their fifth anniversary at The Riviera.

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Back in August I posted about Mr. Dynamite Deluxe in front of the Riviera. It was also around this time that I first met David from New Raleigh, also in front of the Riviera.
It's a great environment, and they take great care to create the right mood. Upstairs there is a DJ playing dance music that gives a more urban night club feel, whereas the bar area was more of a relaxed wine bar. I think it is a nice blend of contrasts.

Riviera Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
135 South Wilmington Street
(919) 834-7480

Derelikt Diva Art Show, Part II

The Derelickt Diva herself, Jojo, seen here laughing

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More continuation of the art show. I have to say that I did not notice the mannequin heads while I was there, only now as I see in the photos.

Derelikt Diva Art Show, Part I

This past Sunday I traveled to Hargett St., to check out the Derelikt Diva art show. It was an art show, spoken word, and hip hop event with DJ Ski Daddy. The event was held in Club Kirocos, which is above Two T's. For more on Two T's, please see earlier blog posts.
The event was a lot of fun, and had a great vibe. Jojo (the derelikt diva) put the event on herself, which is even more impressive. To find out more about her artwork, visit her myspace page.

A Night at the Rockford

Rob the bartender, with my martini in the foreground.

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Jason, Glen, and Mike

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Perhaps one of Raleigh's best hidden treasures is The Rockford. I am sad to say I have never had lunch or dinner here, but I have stopped off for a martini on many occasions. If you are in the mood for a martini in a casual but not too casual environment with good music playing, this is the place to be.
Voted best martini and best atmosphere by Goodnight, Raleigh!. Located at 320 1/2 Glenwood Ave, but don't look for a sign. There isn't one.

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Outside of the Oyster Bar

One of the first few posts on this blog was a few of the images I took of downtown Raleigh in 2004, when I first moved here from Asheville. The first image is of the back side of the Oyster Bar, and this image is the side near the rail road tracks.

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Patrolling The Streets On A Segway

Officer Rob in front of Tir Na Nog on a Segway.

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So yesterday was the first time I've ever noticed the RPD out on Segway patrol. I've documented Officer Keen previously on this blog on bicycle patrol as well as on equestrian patrol. When asked how long the RPD has been patrolling on Segways, I was told that the department has had been for a few years now. Have I just not noticed them? Have they been out on these for a while now?

The Giant Moth Lights of The Office

As a disclaimer, I've never been to The Office on West Martin Street. Being a fan of electronic music, I have toyed with the idea a few times. Unfortunately, every time I approach I see parking lots full of Hummer SUV limousines and Lincoln limousines, with giant Valet parking signs and red carpet. As much as I idealize the thought of relaxing in a former blacksmith shop and Logans Coal Warehouse, I've yet to go into the place. Seems too out of place. Catering to an exclusive crowd, in a building with much history.

Three People Frozen In Movement

Random people crossing the tracks in front of the last building on West Martin St.

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Microfest: Microbrews for Microloans

The entrance sign explaining what your hard-earned dollars are going towards.

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Karen collecting everyone's tickets for the microcredit applicants.

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The outside area with grilled items, snacks, and microbrews.

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Brian Bouterse (on the left), whose blog, The Web Organic is a daily read of this author.

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Lodge playing a great version of story-telling, comedy, and just generally awesome music. If you are a web/technology geek like I am, you'll enjoy his song "VMware Fusion".

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Brian takes the stage to tell a joke, which was deemed by the band to not be that funny. The joke when something like this:
"Two antennas got married. The party wasn't much fun but the reception was GREAT."

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Last Saturday was the Microbrews for Microloans concert featuring several local performing artists and DJs to benefit KIVA, an organization that provides microcredit to folks in other countries to start their own business that otherwise would have no chance of securing a loan. Kids young and old came out for the great sounds, over 12 different local microbrews, grilled brats or veggie burgers, and friendly people and games. The really neat idea behind the event is that each entrant was provided with two tickets. You then use them to vote on which person in another country gets the part of the loan you paid for with the entry fee. Each jar had the story of the person in need.
I had a great time and really enjoyed myself. I didn't end up taking that many photos because I wanted to just kick back and have a great time. I hope parties of this nature become more viral. The city could use backyard parties with a specific purpose that benefits the less fortunate in a very direct and effective way.
More information can be found at The Web Organic. Walden provided the venue for the event.

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On the Way to Five Star

Clubbers on the way to Five Star for Vegas Night after leaving a Vietnamese concert. From left to right: Nic, Jennifer, Thuy An, Jolin, Tinh(In the back), Nancy, and Ricky.

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West Side Stories, Part II

Shaughn and Michelle

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Supreme (left) and Shrek (right)

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DJ Shake spinning the beats

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Bored on a Saturday night? Tired of the same boring places packed with polos and attitudes? If so, you should visit West Side Stories. I had a load of fun and I plan on going back with the girlfriend sometime in the not too distant future.

West Side Stories
200 S West St.
(919) 834-1300

West Side Stories, Part I

Sarah, Michelle, and Diana

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Stubbs, the official club photographer, and Drew

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The lovely bartender Sarah

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Drew and Michelle

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About a month ago, I made a post about a place called West Side Stories. It was just a picture of the outside, nothing more. Shortly after that post I came to realize that a good friend of mine, Drew [pictured above], worked as a bartender there. One of the first few posts to this blog was about people working the late shift, and Drew was one of those folks.
As odd as it seems due to the nature of this site, I am a morning person and I arrived at West Side Stories well before it gets packed and full of people.
It is certainly worth visiting. You have:

• Great beats
• friendly people
• lots of pretty ladies
• awesome bartenders

(919) 834-1300

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First Friday at the Fish Market

ife


Mike and Annie

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Miles, Sonny, and Enrique

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Maxine dishing out the sweets

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Last Friday Nureena and I visited the Fish Market Gallery which was kicking off the Ghana Study Abroad 2007 exhibit.

According to the flyer,

Students taking an interdisciplinary design studio and seminar investigated traditional forms of art, design, and culture in Ghana, West Africa. Because these art forms are still regionally specific, the students were able to link the artifact to the place, including all of its natural and culture heritage. Additionally, both Place and Artifact informed the creation of new works; ranging from all forms of artistic expression, to site design and planning, to tourism planning and curriculum development.

Exhibition Dates: Friday Nov 2 - Saturday Dec 1, 2007
Opening Reception: Friday Nov 2, 6-11PM
Closing Reception: Saturday, Dec 1, 1-4PM

Fish Market Gallery
133 Fayetteville St
http://www.ncsu.edu/www/ncsu/design/sod5/fishmarket/events-show.html

Sadlack's Heroes, Part II

The congo line

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The front of Sadlack's

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Kaci and my dog, Elsi

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Kaci and a friend

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I happened to walk by Sadlack's last Saturday when walking my dog and a friend, Kaci, called my name and I decided to hang out and have a beer. She is on a frisbee team (disc golf?) and the team was celebrating at Sadlack's. I happened to have my camera with me (I almost always do) so I hung out and took some pics.

According to their blog,

For over 30 years, Sadlacks has served Raleigh's best and freshest heroes (including legendary vegetarian selections) while entertaining the populace with the region's finest live musical entertainment.

Best sandwiches. Dog-friendly. Relaxed casual atmosphere. Prime real estate. What else do you need?

Sadlack's Heroes
2116 Hillsborough St
919-828-9190

Sadlack's Heroes, Part I

Rose (owner) and Mary (bartender)

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Steve and Stacy

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This post is going to be a bit lengthier than usual. Sadlack's Heroes is a bar/venue/sandwich joint on Hillsborough Street. Several months ago they did a complete renovation which was pretty much knocking down the previous building and rebuilding it in a similar fashion. It has plenty of outdoor seating. Normally I don't do sandwiches for dinner, but this place wins an exception every time. In my opinion, they have hands down THE BEST sandwich in Raleigh. I also don't do fried foods, but their homemade chips (or fries) are so tasty that they are worth the unhealthiness that goes with fried items.

The location is a favorite for me personally, as it's about a 2 minute walk from my house. Additionally, the location provides a great bird's eye view of the Bell Tower intersection of Hillsborough St. Perhaps the biggest reason I am such a fan of this place is that it is a dog-friendly establishment (outside, anyhow). I generally pass by this place when walking the pup, and it's neat that often there will be a dog or two hanging out on the patio for mine to play with.

Sadlack's Heroes
2116 Hillsborough St
919-828-9190

Last of the Rain Series

This is the last post in the series of rainfall in Raleigh. These images were taken under a walkway by the House of Style on Wilmington St.

Four Ladies at The Sheraton

From left to right: Lisa, Amy, Becky, and Sharon.

Two T's Part II

The Two T's entrance on Hargett St.

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One of the bouncers, Bone'z. I wouldn't recommend trying to get rowdy in this club! ;)

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The dance floor

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Two T's Rack & Tavern
108 E. Hargett St
(919) 836-9922

Two T's Part I

Rayshawn and DJ Ski Daddy in the DJ booth.

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Jessica and Jodie

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a.k.a. JoJo, pulling in the tips on Friday night.

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Two T's is a great bar. Relaxing environment, friendly people, and great bartenders. No attitudes here, just folks groovin' to R&B and other beats as spun by DJ Ski Daddy. I highly recommend it if you're looking for a place to get your groove on. Why not try a place a bit different than what you're used to?

Two T's Rack & Tavern
108 E. Hargett St
(919) 836-9922

Say leaving The Shins concert

Say lives in Greensboro and was visiting Raleigh for The Shins concert at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.

West Side Stories

I've never been in West Side Stories, but I'm planning to go very soon. I'll be sure to give an updated post with photos and information.

200 S West St
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 834-1300

UPDATE: Please visit here and here for updated posts with pictures from inside.

The Hurricane at The Raleigh Depot

Gina, Jenny, and Lindsay

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In the area surrounding the Raleigh Depot is The Hurricane. I'll be honest in that I've never actually had a drink here, but it looked like a fine enough establishment.

The Hurricane Sports Bar
327 W. Davie Street

Rick of the Last Dance

Rick enjoying a break at the hotel before his band, The Last Dance go onstage at the Lincoln Theatre as a part of The Eccentrik Music Festival.

According to The Eccentrik Music Festival web site,

Eccentrik Festival is an annual Gothic and Industrial music held in Raleigh, NC in the fall. It features bands and DJs from around the world. The event also encompasses an art show, vendors, we also hope to add variety acts and a fashion show.

If you are interested in going, it has unfortunately already concluded. It was completed with a Post Mortem Brunch on Sunday at the top of the Clarion Tower last Sunday morning.

Travis of SkateNC.com

The gentleman pictured above (Travis) is the proprietor of skatenc.com, a website about skateboarding in North Carolina.
What makes this random street encounter more interesting than the subject of skateboarding itself is the fact that we share a few mutual friends, from the area I grew up in, Hendersonville, NC.
At that time (mid 90's) skateboarders were very few and far between in that quiet little town. I still keep in contact with a few of my friends from back then. They are always mentioning how I should meet up with this guy named Travis that runs skatenc.com because he lives in Raleigh. While walking in the warehouse district on Saturday night, we were both admiring a desk with a note stating "take me home please". It was then the conversation started and we realized we had the same friends. I finally bumped into this person that I had heard about.
In this photo he is showing off an origami book he found near a bridge.

Club Mosquito, Part II

Lori and Lissy getting ready hit the dancefloor

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DJ Moonie spinning the beats

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If I were a single gentleman looking for a regular hangout spot on the weekends, this place would surely be it. The DJ was playing good tracks and talented at scratching, the ladies plentiful, the bartenders fast and responsive. The interior design was amazing.

Club Mosquito
311 S. Harrington Street
919.829.3676
http://clubmosquito.com

Club Mosquito, Part I

It was too busy for me to get this lovely bartender's name.

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Mike the bouncer around back.

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This was my first visit to this very hip club downtown. Club staff around the back of the building were nice, but understandably apprehensive about letting some stranger in the club wanting to take pictures. I talked with the manager who was gracious enough to allow me inside and take a few shots despite the fact I was dressed like a slob.

The Big Easy, part II

The Big Easy
222 Fayetteville St, Raleigh - (919) 832-6082

The Big Easy, part I

Last weekend after First Friday I went out with a friend to The Big Easy. I had never been there up until that point. Was a nice enough place. The building design was beautiful, the environment was very calm and relaxing.



Jen and Seanette in on a joke I missed.

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I've spent enough of my youth in pool halls and bars to know the rules of bar-owned pool tables. These unsavory folks pictured above were uninterested in playing until I was, for a reason that became apparent later--they were out of quarters. They demanded that I play their team, and I pay. I passed on the offer.
Just say no to coin-operated pool table sharks.