For the past three years, I have had the extreme pleasure of being invited to the North Whidbey Hawkers’ Seahawk Rally.

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In 2014 and 2015, there were two rallies: one in Coupeville and the other on Deception Pass Bridge.  This year, so far, we just had one up at The Bridge!

The day awakened to cold temperatures (mid-twenties) and frost.  Something about clear, frosty days; they are also very clear and crisp days!  Bundled up, in our Seahawk regalia, we all carefully make our way up to the parking areas around Deception Pass Bridge which is known for its spectacular vistas and is visited by travelers the year round.

As we gather, the Park Rangers strategically park their vehicles at the entrance and exits of the main parking area for the bridge to keep the attendees for the rally safe!  Our fearless leader, Jason Park, gathers us using his bullhorn….As the traffic flows over the bridge, many drivers participate in the celebration by enthusiastically honking their horns and waving.  Rally goers wave and cheer back.

There are about six or so of us photographers; from the local paper, perhaps from the Seattle PI (unconfirmed) and hobby photographers.  Funny thing about these rallies is that everyone is so polite!  I’ve been to events where there are many photographers – all bumping into each other and competing for that ideal shot.  Not very polite!  But, not here, at the rally.  We all jovially assist one another!

The turnout for the rally was fabulous.  Folks of every age and background attended.  We had folks in wheelchairs, dogs, kids of all ages and, of course, the fan vehicles!  What fun it was to traverse the Bridge, waving at the passersby, shouting Seahawk cheers and waving our banners and signs!  The energy is incredibly INFECTIOUS!

We finish our rally, regroup for a final group photo session and depart, only to meet up again at Louie-G’s Pizza, downtown Oak Harbor, for food, drinks and more reveling!  It’s a friends and family kind of thing…..It’s always great to see friends and get in the spirit of supporting our team, the Seattle Seahawks, for their final regular-season game!

We’re in; we BELIEVE; win, lose or tie – WE ARE Seahawk fans until we die!

SeaHAWKS!!!!

*** Update: At the time of finishing this post for publishing, the Seattle Seahawks CHAMPIONED over the Arizona Cardinals – 36 to 6 – which was a blast to watch!  My brass bell rung for every touch down and for the win!  They are now off to the playoffs and the Wild Card game against the Minnesota Vikings!  Way to go, Seahawks!  Did the rally help with this win?  You decide.