I finally made it out to GT Recording, the only place I could find in Seattle that can digitize 16mm film reels. They’re only open by appointment and at odd hours, and when I got there, I expected to find some grumpy Gen Xer behind the counter. I was pleasantly surprised to meet the sweetest old lady named Connie who gently laughed at my offering extra leader in case my reels were a little worn out. She said they deal with even older and moldier stuff than mine.
I took these photos about five minutes apart. The light can change rapidly in Spring.
While I waited to be buzzed in, though, a guy called Max who was visibly having a hard time asked if I could help him out with some cash. I told him I don’t carry any on me but could get him breakfast at the minimart next door, if he wanted. He was limping.
He picked out an egg sandwich and a couple of treats, then tried to get me to buy him a Fireball too. He promised he wouldn’t get drunk. Just needed something to start his day. I had to firmly decline, but offered to get cigarettes instead. He said: “That’ll probably help.” He chose Lucky Strikes. “The green ones.”
The clerk threw in a box of matches for free and wished us a nice day.
When I got back to GT Recording, I noticed the sign in the window that said, “the Lord will provide.” I thought about that as I turned around and saw a young man chase down a woman in a dark raincoat and hood, carrying some take out. I think he thought she was a sex worker. She shook her head and walked away.
Then Connie buzzed me in. The light changes rapidly in Spring.