Surviving Norfolk to Help Norfolk Survive
Words Alfredo Torres
Friday, October 22nd, 2010 at 1:25 pm
Those of us who have always cared about zombies and Norfolk are ecstatic about the Surviving Norfolk zombie tag game that is going down tonight,
but this isn’t just about surviving Norfolk. This is about saving Norfolk.
Save our city.
If everything goes well tonight, this event has the potential to become an annual Norfolk signature event. Think Harborfest, except grassroots, alcohol free, and much deader.
Norfolk does not have much in the fall that can bring out of town tourist. It also does not really have much at all that can compete with bigger cities. With a transient military population that makes up a huge chunk of those that live and work in the city, it can be difficult to make something that sticks. Sure, we have things like Harborfest and The Greening of Ghent, but those events–while fun and extremely enjoyable–have become kind of corporate and, at least in my opinion, have become annual events in which we go through the motions. Not to say that they are not a lot of fun–I have a great time at both every year–but that’s it.
Zombie contemplates the future of Norfolk. (Pic | Sam Shinault)
Nothing stands out about them because they have been going on for so long that no one has thought of changing the formula. Survive Norfolk addresses that.
Not only is this thing going to be madness (in a good way), it is going to be an economic boom for the historic Ghent district of Norfolk. Anytime you have an estimated 7 to 10 thousand people in a location that they are not normally at, the money will flow. Local hotels, bars, restaurants will all make money. With a pre-registration time of 6:15 pm, the local shops will benefit from the “zombies” walking around and doing some shopping before the start of the game. (Tell me George Romero didn’t call that one with Dawn of the Dead). Even the taxi companies will make some scratch as smart, responsible zombies will take cabs home instead of risking a chance at a DUI or worse, having a shot at joining the real zombie army behind bars.
Picture this becoming an annual weekend event. That’s what gets me really excited.
With a 5 K run to benefit a local charity. Zombie movies playing all weekend at the historic Naro Theater. Local bands bands getting some exposure by performing at the bars and pubs those thirsty members of both the living and undead type will no doubt be frequenting. Topped off with the biggest game of zombie tag the nation has ever seen…
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AltDaily's Hannah Serrano and Whitney Metzger.
The one thing that I would hope to come out of this is for it to stay local. No corporate sponsors (even though that money would be nice), use only local businesses. Use only local talent and local companies to stage the whole event. This grew out of the people, let the people run it, make money from it, and enjoy it the way they would want to.
Of course this has the potential of become a disaster, but that really is minimal. As long as people are respectful of the area they will be playing, do not show up inebriated, and don’t get over aggressive in tagging each other, this should go on without a hitch. Also of importance is making sure that the area isn’t damaged or left with a huge clean up that the city will have to pay for. It is important that we as players show that we can leave the area in better shape that we received it. After all, isn’t being a zombie the ultimate in recycling?
This piece would not be complete without a big heartfelt thank you to Whitney Metzger. You might have just wanted to have fun with your friends, but you might have unwittingly stumbled upon a way to inject much needed money into an area that has always welcomed, loved and lived for the creative passion of the local spirit.
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ABOUT THE WRITER
For over 7 years, Alfredo Torres helped spread joy, laughter and music over the local airwaves. Getting his start as a regular on the Mike and Bob show, he took his talents to his own, "Alfredo Torres Debacale," before moving on to 100.5 Max FM's Locals Lounges where he featured the most talented local rock bands in the Hampton Roads area. He went on to host a successful video blog for Port Folio Weekly and currently is featured on Bob's Boneyard, a podcast staring himself along with Bob Fresh and Manny Fresh formally of the Mike and Bob show and Torres vs Zombies, a zombie survival podcast. He has been there, done that and has the T-shirt to prove it, even if the T-shirt doesn't fit anymore. Widely respected for his quick wit, knowledge of music and zombies, and a passion for local artist, The Silver Fox doesn't follow the politically correct path.
Other posts by Alfredo Torres.
Other posts by Alfredo Torres.
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so in order for alfredo,whitney,hannah,jesse and their ilk to be able to play this demonic game,those in the neighborhood are going to be inconvenienced/oppressed/subjected to this crap thanks to the norfolk city council?
That’s right, anonymous! Torres, Whitney, Hannah, Jesse, and the 7,000 other people who were excited about this will be oppressing the Debbie Downers of the neighborhood tonight! So many thanks to Norfolk for pulling through on this one.
I am a ghent resident who volunteered at check-in and then enjoyed watching everyone have an amazing time playing tag. It went well, there was a positive energy from particpants to the police. What a great unique way to convene a community and raise much needed funds for our locla charities! Everyone really won in this event – the businesses, partipants, city and charities thanks to Whitney’s idea! Great job!
obviously,those who have chosen to respond to what we posted could care less about the truth that this was a sad, pitiful,and morbid waste of time and energy and overall fruitless work of darkness.
This was sad, pitiful and morbid waste of time and energy? The fact that people came together to make something happen is sad, pitiful and a morbid waste of time and energy? Have you tried to do anything but nay say this event? Have you put out constructive criticism to try to improve this event. You know something, it is people like you that have nothing to offer that make this city, state and country begin the slide downward. I’ a conservative, and while I might have problems with the way a liberal might think, at least they have passion and conviction for what they believe and that I can respect. But to complain about something that was done for the good of the community, something that injected life, happiness and much needed money into the Ghent area without offering anything in return, you are the one in darkness. So much darkness that you won’t even sign your name to let everyone know that you are the one who has a problem with this event. Like me or hate me, at least you know that I am the one saying what I am saying. I don’t hid behind “anonymous” and hope that when I walk down the street, the people looking at me might recognize that I am the person that posts words in the night. Stand proud of yourself and your beliefs, and bring something to the table. If you can’t, then stay at home and mumble to yourself. Don’t bother those who are trying to make a difference, right or left.
I was number 7 in line, at 3pm for a armband to participate. It was a great time…Im ready to sign up right NOW for NEXT YEAR……Lets do one in DECEMBER!!! WOOOOHAAAAAAA Thanks Whitney & Crew
anonymous is a sad, superstitious sack!!! Why do you cling to that which you cannot see, when the zombie horde is tangible and RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU. Join us now!!! My devilish sixth sense tells me youre old and wrinkly, you would fit in well as the undead
Now charlie, I may be old but Im not wrinkly cause I have good skin. LOL BTW, Great shirts brother. Still need to see you about a Double XX.