Word came down today that The Rockford has closed its doors, causing widespread hipster despair and impromptu tributes. It's a place I'll definitely miss, my favorite eatery and meet-up spot in the Glenwood South district. And I have especially fond memories of one celebratory night there a bit more than five years ago.

 

It was the day that Grammy Award nominations were announced in December 2004. Raleigh homegirl Tift Merritt unexpectedly picked one up -- seriously, it was out of nowhere -- and The Rockford bar was where she and her friends and family congregated to celebrate. Giddy spirits as well as spirits in general were in full effect, with smiles, giggles and slurred toasts all around. I dropped by late in the evening, and Merritt had had enough libations by then to be referring to her "Nommy Gramination." It was a great night, and not the only one I had there.

 

So long, Rockford...