Have you ever wanted to just leave everything behind? Pack a bag, hit the road and see where life takes you? Many of us probably fantasize about the simplicity and allure of this lifestyle, but for most, that is all it will ever be, a
vague, unrealistic dream.
For the man named Roaming Bear, it is a reality. Twice a year, Roaming Bear leaves his parents house with 10 dollars in his pocket and a minimal amount of items in his back pack. His trips consist of riding trains, sleeping in abandoned houses, and eating out of the garbage. This particular trip however, is a little different.
Micheal Rogan is a 19 year old skateboarder from the suburbs of Chicago who has been struggling with life and direction after the death of his brother. He decided to join Roaming Bear on a trip across the country and see what life on the road was really like. To turn the fantasy that we all have into a part of his reality. The concept was so intriguing that Born Ready Films decided to follow them and document their journey together.
I met them all in the parking lot of our local Starbucks. While the camera crew has a car to follow them in, Roaming Bear and Mikey travel on their own. They must either hitch a ride or find another, alternate means of getting to their next destination. How could I pass up the opportunity? I ditched work and drove them to Davis.
Once there I couldn’t resist tagging along for the remainder of the day, and they were kind enough to let me join them as they visited Roaming Bear’s aunt, who lives in the area. We had dinner together, went swimming, and I’m fairly sure that I somehow agreed to let myself be used in the footage for the documentary as they wished. (A decision I’m not entirely sure I won’t regret;)
The appeal of the lifestyle is definitely alluring, and if I wasn’t tied down with a job here, I would most likely follow them as far as they would let me.
Make sure you watch the promo trailer for their documentary; it is a fascinating glimpse into a world most of us will never know, and into the people that we judge and pass so quickly on the street.
-Jamila
The Yuba-Sutter Holiday Arts Faire offers fine art, handcrafted items, and other gifts created by local artists and artisans. A sample of items that will be on display include:
Way, Way, Way Off Broadway (WWWOB), is hosted by the Rotary Club of Yuba City. This glittering glamorous, gorgeous revue is a salute to Broadway’s greatest shows, combining the energy and excitement of Broadway into one spectacular musical extravaganza.
