As the Summer Solstice Parade passes by…

It’s been a while..

Since I stood by among cheering folk and enjoyed a good parade. Not just any parade, but the annual (33rd!) Fremont Solstice Parade, here in north Seattle.

To those not familiar with this local tradition, the Fremont Solstice Parade is celebration of raw art and talent, produce by the Fremont Arts Council. The floats and costumes are all home-made, of the highest creative spririt and imagination. No corporations or logos, as funding is propelled by the locals. Spectators join in cheers as positive messages of love, peace, laughter, inspiration, expression, culture are welcome through the streets of Fremont.

It’s all vibrant, beautiful to witness. Here’s some pictures, sharing in my joy…

– Orion T

Back from the Short Run Comix and Arts Festival, 10th Anniversary

I love small press and homegrown creativity, especially from the Short Run Comix and Arts Festival.

This recent annual event, at its 10th Anniversary in Seattle, drew hundreds of people to a big room to share in that support to meet and shop. Through the many tables, a chance to buy small and limited runs of books, zines, prints, stickers, and a lot of other cool oddities mostly from Pacific Northwest residents. To partake in the joy of creativity and discovery of fresh literature and art, especially the sequential, is delightful.

I have missed this much, as the Covid pandemic has kept the Short Run away for over two years. Now, it’s back to the Fisher Pavilion at the Seattle Center, bigger than ever.

There was an awesome variety of homegrown material for anyone, any age to take in on pretty much any subject. However, much of it is not cheap, as creators often take a difficult path in their devotion to their craft, often taking sacrifice in time and funds of their own. The best we can do to keep them going in offering such driven creativity, is support by paying the extra bucks. The opportunity through the Short Run is most grand.

Also, the Short Run Comix & Arts Festival is a free event. I think that’s a big reason for the support. Accessibility for all, feels more open and inviting. Though the lines during the prime hours to get in were quite long, with at least 15 minutes wait to get in…worth it.

So here are some great moments of the show, including some of the wonderful people I chatted with, and some purchases from me (last picture).

And now, looking forward to the next Short Run.

– Orion T

The spooky and spirited thrillings of Halloween

“It’s as much fun to scare as to be scared.” – Vincent Price.

With much truth in that shining quote, there is more to appreciate in leading up to this day of All Hallow’s Eve. This spookiest day built itself heavily from a Celtic pagan festival, to a preparation on the eve of All Saint’s Day for Catholics, an eventual connecting to All Soul’s Day started by Christian missionaries, then the heavily commercialized push from capitalizing retailers. There is much more history behind every Halloween with it’s many traditions involving wacky costumes, carving pumpkins, and devouring excessive sugary treats.

Halloween is all in good fun, though how much one puts into it is an individual taste. One’s dedication to entertain others through extravagant appearance of one’s self and surrounding to get at least a chuckle, and perhaps a little spooky vibe, says much on how wonderful a beating heart can be. To share in a scare, to delight in disguise, to celebrate a little darkness in each other by making light over much of it, can be healthy for the gloomy days ahead.

So that being said, I hope all have a safe and thrilling Halloween, no matter how we each take part in (or ignore) it.

– Orion T

The picture above was from somewhere near Volunteer Park in Seattle, last Halloween in 2021. In that area was, and probably there again this year, some truly spooktacular displays upon some beautiful vintage houses. I may check that area out again this year, if time and weather allow.

Here is a few pics of that fun night..

Cheering the St. Patrick’s Tradition in Seattle

Happy St. Patrick’s Day everyone, as I wish you all a most green, fun and delightful time, should you decide to partake in this odd non-holiday tradition of green clovers and happy dancing.

Last Sunday, I celebrated a bit of that grand St. Patrick’s Day spirited tradition.

That joy was from the local annual parade here in Seattle, returning to full spirit with the marching and convoy entertainment to a cheering crowd. I think this may be the first of its kind to a regular cheering crowd since before the pandemic. I was a surprised with the huge public reception!

The event, was for the coming St. Patrick’s day. All hosted by an awesome variety of mostly local Irish culture groups, celebrating different facets of Ireland traditions, music, dance, spirited ideals, and non-profit backed charity.

Overall, a good time. I wish I brought a better camera, but still I took pictures worth sharing. Here below, are my favorite shots for your amusement.

– Orion T

21 things to the great 21s of today!

So today is the the 21th day of the 21th year of the 21th century. I am posting this on the 21st hour of my day!

So, I will share with you 21 things I enjoyed about being 21 years of age, back when I was 21.

Drinking responsibly, and legally…totally new at 21!
Community college…totally ready and willing to go back to school, but on my terms at 21!!
Having roommates that weren’t my friends, didn’t usually feel weird.
At 21, I can begin to officially quote, “Back in my day…”
“So, this is clubbing…heh.”
Whipping out my state ID with a smile, proving that I am 21.
No weird life regrets just yet.
Not caring about the sodium count in 10-cent ramen packs and 50-cent noodle cups!
Totally a full grown-up with no age restrictions, unless I want to run for President.
But still can be kind of a kid with my Spawn action figures together on a shelf. No explanations!
No big student loan or credit card debts. Probably not ever, riiiiiight?!
Working five days a week at a reasonable living wage for the time, hell yeah!
My peak high metabolism.
Taco Bell food tasted really good then.
Decided officially that gambling was stupid, and I sucked at it.
Sleep was way more manageable.
Hanging out with friends when I can because I can, and they could too. it was just so simple and exciting back then!
Following your dreams instead of chasing after them.
Having an innocent, naïve world view that was more acceptable
The amazing and totally responsible 20s life, 8-9 more of this year to redo…riiiiight?!
Being very overly optimistic. (Now, I am cautiously optimistic).

So yeah, that’s my awesome 21 things I loved about being 21 on this day of multiple 21s. Also, enjoy this catchy opening to one my favorite classic TV shows, 21 Jump Street now…

This is probably going to stay in your head now (you’re welcome!)

Orion T

Oh…you might ask why is there a squirrel as my opening pic. That’s because today, January 21st is also Squirrel Appreciation Day! NOD YOUR HEADS TO OUR FURRY OVERLORDS OF CUTENESS!!!

Also, I carefully planted 21s, 21 times in this article of 21s!

Here today, gone tomorrow…the final days of the original Bon Marché

Only, 9, 8, 7, 6, days left…

I see the going out of business signs more now, spread among the malls, department stores, big names of yesterday giving up their land. Past vibrant with the rising consumerism of societies spending addictions, now withering from the lack of capitalist sunlight focused more on the Amazons of online shopping. Or perhaps, it’s all just from unwise business practices, unpaid loans, and becoming prey for the savvy vulture capitalists who see not the products and potential, but the money to picked from the bones of these once-great behemoths.

Now, the downtown Macy’s store in downtown Seattle is next. It began as the Bon Marché store in 1890 (not to be confused with the famed Le Bon Marché in Paris, founded in 1838), which grew into a chain of its own until about the early 2000’s where a number mergers would end up with its name gone, and eventually put into the Macy’s department store chain collective, based in New York City.

Much like many other Macy’s stores closing in 2019, and more scheduled for 2020, everything must go. Here, the local Macy’s was a familiar cornerstone of Seattle’s big department store scene since its Bon Marché beginnings. The interior was much like any other grand upper-middle class catering atmosphere, with central escalators leading to the usual departments of fashion and home goods. But on the exterior was a felt presence, welcoming to spendy tourists and locals with its vintage architecture built-in 1929 designed by local architect John Graham Sr. During the holidays, its massive Holiday star light decoration would light the way outside for locals and tourists to partake in the seasonal consumerism inside

Its upper floors sold to Amazon for office space in recent years, then eventually struggled with likely expensive upkeep related to booming property values. Macy’s as a downtown Seattle store will end very soon.

I meanwhile, dropped by to scavenge for bargain deals. Not disappointing as I would buy new pants, socks, shirts, that were previously beyond my affordable range. In that venture, I was fascinated by what felt like the end of an era, not just for this Macy’s, but many department stores gone over the recent era. How many will be left by 2030?

But for now, here are some moments observed of these final days of the Bon Marché Pacific Northwest legacy, founded in 1890. At least, it had a good full century run.

– Orion T

Polar Bear Plunge – Vancouver, Canada 2019

Traditionally in mid-winter, many thrill-seekers gather at various shore locations worldwide, to plunge into freezing temperature waters. It’s insane, but an awesome happening for over a century now. This event is the annual Polar Bear Plunge.

In Canada, the Polar Bear Plunge is traditionally held on New Year’s Day; a perfect time to bravely face forward the new challenges within the next long Earth cycle around the Sun. In Vancouver, it’s highly regarded and looked forward to as a continuation of passionate bravery for local participants and arriving travelers, since 1920.

I attended this latest Polar Bear Plunge, at English Bay in Vancouver. I witnessed from afar and late, a couple of years ago at this location. This time, I’m in front as a spectator, with my ankles in the water, and then trying it closer to my kneecaps. Wow, what freezing water!!

The temperature was at about 4 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit). Not sure on the number of those jumping in, but I was told it was in the early thousands throughout the time it was officially held. Many were in wacky costumes, while others held flags and team banners to represent something more.

Here are some of my pictures of plunging moments captured.

The energy and excitement shared felt inspiring. I loved every second, watching the reactions and cheering on those brave souls. I learned a lot too, on preparation and taking on this challenge (don’t drink, know your limits). Getting a small taste by stepping into the cold, I found myself inspired and wanting more.

So, I will plan to take part in a Polar Bear Plunge eventually on New Year’s Day, in Canada most likely. I look forward to this shared experience!

-Orion T

Days of the San Diego Comic Con 2018 past…

Since last reported of my arrival in San Diego, I attended the San Diego Comic Con for the 24th year in an annual row. Much happened there, mostly fun and networking among creative work appreciators and proprietors..

Some of my experience is shared through strangerworlds.com, another site I write for. You are invited to read Part 1 of my commentary with pics. Check it out here.

That’s all for now. More happened since the Comic Con, which I will eventually get around to sharing. That’s a promise.

– Orion T

Pictures of Today 5/22/15, Living the Folklife..

The Northwest Folklife Festival kicks off this Memorial Day weekend with groovy vibes and solid rhythms.

This Friday evening, I dropped by the ol Seattle Center park for this annual tradition. The festival is free to all and run as a non-profit event, since 1972. It’s made possible by donations big and small by many supporters. Here, you can listen to many folk beats from many musicians on stage, or just hanging out by a tree. Many ethnic variations involving different styles of dance, vocals, and instruments are proudly presented. Listeners are encouraged to groove, and perhaps dance with the soulful sounds.

I highly recommend attending for anyone looking to chill and enjoy some cool jams with other like-minded spirits. Though, I also encourage visitors to bring whatever loose change and dollars they happen to have. Though you will find company backed stage performances, there are also many more small acts in between, and throughout the park area. You may enjoy them, and smile; perhaps even dance and cheer to these wonderful performers mere footsteps away. If so, show some appreciation and drop them some of that cash down. Becoming part of that action is what keeps the NW Folklife Festival fun.

You may also visit the many food and merch stands scattered about. For more info on the Festival, visit nwfolklife.org.

I will be back tomorrow, and likely on some grass for much of the day, enjoying this Folklife. If you see me, come and say hello. I promise to return the favor. I might even buy you some roasted corn on the cob.

Meanwhile, here are a few other pics of today’s Folklife opening day…

-Orion T

Outside Memories of the 2015 Sakura-Con..

I love these fandom gatherings.

Recently, I joined among the many in colorful costumes for the celebration of an interesting sub-culture. Here, together to celebrate their love for the Japanese anime/manga; including related games, art and lit. The grand show inside (of which I was unable to attend) was the great Sakura-Con, held annually in Seattle’s downtown convention center. The outside show in the back park area stretching some blocks, is a fan driven compliment to the event.

I spent good time outside the event in the back park area, there to meet up with old visiting friends. While around, I had great fun, cheering on the celebrated icons of Japan’s contributions to pop-culture, and learned much on the new popular trends of today’s “otaku” faire.

I took some pictures with two cameras. The sunny weather was perfect for that, adding vividness to the amazing array of colorful attires. Here below, with notes:

Dressed as characters from an anime/manga TV show, Cardcaptor Sakura.

A giant handmade Pokemon creature, made by the mohawked person in the back. Many cheered on this giant creature.

Link and a fairy (from a later game I think, of which I have yet to play)..from the Legend of Zelda series

WaLuigi, brother to Wario. Not sure who the other us.

Vegeta and Piccolo perform the fusion dance. I am not a big fan of Dragonball Z, yet have been enough of the fandom to pick up on this stuff.

Godzilla!!

From the worlds of the Walter Robot studios, of which I know very little. I know for sure, this make-up job is awesome.

Jokers and Harley Quinns. They are not of the Japanese culture origins, but they fit well as the anime/manga altpop culture welcomes all fantasy, sci-fi, superhero, etc genres of creative storytelling.

Not sure who she is from but that makeup job and costume detail is phenomenal.

Vash the Stampede and Wolfwood, crossplayed from the classic Trigun anime series. This brings love and peace to my heart, to see fans bring life to one of my fav series of years ago.

These players are from the Yu-Gi-Oh game and anime franchise. Well done!

I think she is from a newer show called RWBY. Not sure, but nice detail.

An odd traditional game played every year here during the show. This involves a large circle, where those inside the circle kick around a bottle. The bottle points to someone in the circle, signalling for a walk and a hug to that person. That person replaces and fronts to the middle of the circle, to repeat the circle. There are some various chants and songs that sometimes happen.

Characters from the long-running One Piece anime/manga series. The fandom of this was so huge, that a separate gathering far in the back of the park happened; where fans put on their own cosplay show.

A small portion of a massive League of Legends gathering (based on a very popular video game). The fandom and dedication to this astounds me.

Some fun under a bridge, which I helped with for a friend (in the bunny suit). Here, many enjoyed a hop scotch game for to promote her Android dating/social meet-up app, Cuddli..

Another character from League of Legends, I think. I like this shot.

A wild Pokemon spotted!

From the anime series, RWBY. Note: Monty Oum, the animator and creator of RWBY and many short films I admired, passed away last year at the age of 33. His work lives on with the fans.

Not sure on this series..but I like the craftsmanship.

A lady adorned with many Moogles (from the Final Fantasy video games). I hope they are clingy, and not dead..heheh.

Lara Croft, as portrayed in a recent and very gritty retcon of the Tomb Raider game franchise.

Well, that’s all for now. I had a huge blast for the one day of three (I only had the time for, and why I didn’t go for a pass to the grander show inside). I give a huge thanks to all those who shared the joys of their fandoms, with the cosplay and cheers. Good times shared, are the best times.

– Orion T

Memories of an Emerald City Comic Con (2015)

I love a good comic convention, and any geek-out gathering of a similar nature. For me, it’s all about my comic/graphic novel appreciations, and all the connecting fantasy and science fiction driven art. To be among the creatives, and to converse with them is a complex joy that never ends for me.

I also enjoy the thrill of a good hunt, to peek through the exhibit floors.Through the aisles I explore the artist alleys, company booths, dealer tables, and demo stops. I take much with me. All including (but not limited to) my personal favorite things to take home are: sketches, cheap loose figures, vintage magazines, bargain comics (including graphic novels, trade paperbacks), special edition exclusives, free swag, samples, and the occasional new thing an exhibitor successfully pitched .

I also take home some interesting memories, and fun sights. I love taking pictures of people and happenings, to treasure the shows further. Every convention over the last 20 years (lost count of how many of these now), has had something special. I often meet someone new, or see some interesting gathering. I meet an admired creator, or listen to the words of some interesting celebrity to the realms of geek. This is all great fun.

Here are some wonderful memories of this Emerald City Comic Con (my third attended) for 2015.

The gathering of Spider-Man and related Marvel Comics cosplayers. Among them were many Deadpools, and some Spider-Gwens (a new character to the Marvel Universe, long story), and a classic Electro (a personal fav to my childhood cartoon viewing).

I noticed an abundance of loose action figure toys. Much of which I feel somewhat amused, that an appreciation of plastic detailing and articulated mobility could still be a fun novelty, in my grown-up years.

Paul Tobin (writer) and Colleen Cloover (artist), of the Bandette comics; a personal favorite (and highly recommended) series of a whimsical super-hero thief. Both a married couple hosting their own booth, and a joy to meet.

Long Vo and Joe Ng, at the Udon Booth. Both, drawing two video game favorites; Mega Man and Akuma (Street Fighter). I cam back at short times a bit later to see what they were up to. Both very friendly, and put much love into their work

Christopher Pike, and Harry Mudd cosplay; from the Classic Star Trek series.

I love seeing comic book covers of different areas on display and in boxes. There is an awesome nostalgic beauty to all this.

DC Comics “Bombshell” versions of Wonder Woman, Black Canary, Harley Quinn, and Batwoman. All brought to life, from a series of variant comic covers showing the heroines with vintage pulp cover twists. Well done.

Alana and Marko cosplayers, from the Saga comics series. Saga (by Fiona Staple and Brian K. Vaughan) is the best sci-fantasy comic series currently released on the shelves now.

A vintage Batman playset still in the box. Will Batman save Robin in time, or will the Joker have the last laugh?

Jim Mahfood, an admired artist over my last two decades of comic reading. He is the perfect match for the new Tank Girl series coming out. He also drew me a cool Batman sketch.

And here, are the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Seattle is safe for now!

Doctor Doom vs. Judge Dredd. Place your bets!

They let me go, after showing them the droids they were looking for.

Sailor Scouts, crossplayin

The Gundam Wing 1/100 Endless Waltz model kits. Not shown is my favorite, Duo Maxwell and his Deathscythe Hell Custom.

A new Mega Man figure coming from Bluefin toys. Multi-articulated with LED lights, and pop-out compartments. This was originally promoted as a Kickstarter campaign for fans, now with all goals met.

The Image Comics booth, once again standing tall as my favorite current comics publisher.

Some of the later stage cosplayers showcased that Saturday weekend night. There were many groups, with incredible detail and craftsmanship. The Troll from World of Warcraft (fifth from the left) I think won best in show.

On the last day and outside the convention, lucky fans got an up close performance from the D20 Brass Band. Many cheered to the Legend of Zelda theme, and other classic tunes.

Gotta love the some of the really geeky merch. I was seriously considering buying that Chewbacca robe in the top right corner.

Rob McDaniel at work, sculpting with clay one of this amazing creatures. For the show, his work is inside the fantasy anthology series, Monsterpedia.

My obtained sketches on small trading card sized boards, from the show. From the top and left…Leonardo by Albert Nguyen, Batman by Jim Mahfood, Miniature Man by Steven Butler, random lady sketch by Enfu (local Seattle Artist), from the upcoming Faster Than Light augmented reality comics by Brian Haberlin (Anomaly) Inspector Belgique by Colleen Cloover (from Bandette), and Gyro Gearloose by Don Rosa!

Well, that’s all for now, with Gender Bender taking us out.

Until the next Con (probably San Diego in the summer)..

– Orion T

Picture of Today 2/24/15, Multiverse Vista

Down there is the fiction section, around 7:30 p.m.

This large (or small, depending on your perspective) corner is inside the Seattle Central Library, of the downtown area. The view is from the 5th floor, looking down to the 3rd floor there. I am rarely in that part, where I have little time for checking out the fiction these days.

Much of my library book time is either thumbing through the non-fiction (often between 810-815), the 741 area, or the Reference only section exploring old archived texts. Other times, I am working on a very special project somewhere on the 7th or 8th floor; for which shall remain a secret, for now. Some other times, you can find me sitting on a chair on the 10th floor, doing something less important.

If you can find me there, say hello!

Picture of Today 11/14/14

I spotted this sweet Lamborghini on the way home. I am unsure on the model, betting it’s a very recent year. This dream machine was underneath Seattle’s Space Needle (notice the reflection), and quite the extra treat for passing tourists.

Here is the further away of that…

Conventional Fun at the GirlGeekCon..

So, I attended the GirlGeekCon in Seattle…

Continue reading →

Solstice Cyclists at the Fremont Fair, Seattle 2014

Many naked, painted people on bikes rode by last weekend, adding tot he cheer to the new Summer Solstice. This was all part of a strange tradition of the great annual Fremont Fair and Solstice Parade. Here is more information from the wikipedia page:

“The event was started by streakers who crashed the parade. The first person to do so may have done so on a dare. Participants now emphasize bodypainting and other artistry. The group is the largest and fastest growing ensemble associated with the parade. The parade, put on by Fremont Arts Council, is held on a Saturday close to the actual solstice.”

Here is a grainy smartphone video I shot, just a minute of this full hour+ long happening:

Happy New Summer…

Happy New Summer!

For many, the turn of season was happiest at the ol Fremont Fair, in northern Seattle. The day was sunny and the longest of all year (sunrise at 5:12 AM, sunset at 9:11 PM). Crowds of festive folk, parades, music, and deep fried anythings..everywhere. For me at times, I had to escape from it all, and rest here at Gasworks Park..the choice for peace and best view of the Lake Union waterscape.

Sometime, I went back for the local parade and the World Naked Bike Ride. I have pics, of which I will post soon..

Pictures of Today 2/2/14

12th Man Victory!!

The Seattle Seahawks crushed the Denver Broncos 48-8 in tonight’s grand Super Bowl football championship. The fans took to the streets, chanting SEAHAWKS!! SEAHAWKS!! SEAHAWKS!! Constant cheering, high-fiving, cars honking, joints smoking, crowd surfing, flags waving, police nervous, and all good for the home team.

….

Pictures by Orion Tippens. NOTE: Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent (contact Orion at travelingorion.wordpress.com). © Copyright 2014 Orion Tippens. All Rights Reserved

Picture of Today 1/5/14

Winter lifestyles can vary..

…

Picture by Orion Tippens (taken from mobile phone). NOTE: Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent (contact Orion at travelingorion.wordpress.com). © Copyright 2014 Orion Tippens. All Rights Reserved

Picture of Today 1/4/14

Capture the street..

Broadway, between Pike and Pine in Capitol Hill, Seattle.
Artist at work is unknown, with no info at that time.

…

TRAVELING ORION

My frequent blog of my adventures in writing, discovery, and learning.

Category Archives: lifestyles

As the Summer Solstice Parade passes by…

Back from the Short Run Comix and Arts Festival, 10th Anniversary

The spooky and spirited thrillings of Halloween

Cheering the St. Patrick’s Tradition in Seattle

21 things to the great 21s of today!

Here today, gone tomorrow…the final days of the original Bon Marché

Polar Bear Plunge – Vancouver, Canada 2019

Days of the San Diego Comic Con 2018 past…

Pictures of Today 5/22/15, Living the Folklife..

Outside Memories of the 2015 Sakura-Con..

Memories of an Emerald City Comic Con (2015)

Picture of Today 2/24/15, Multiverse Vista

Picture of Today 11/14/14

Conventional Fun at the GirlGeekCon..

Solstice Cyclists at the Fremont Fair, Seattle 2014

Happy New Summer…

Pictures of Today 2/2/14

Picture of Today 1/5/14

Picture of Today 1/4/14

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