Geek Fortress on Avenue D
Written by Kellen Potocsnak, Former Student on Friday, November 8, 2013
On May 4, most people treat the day just as they would any other day, going through the motions. Fewer people take the day to show their love for the, incredibly popular, Star Wars trilogies. But for one man in Snohomish, this day changed his life and opened up a new world of hilarious opportunity.
Dylan Jupp, a comic book enthusiast and self-proclaimed geek, opened his small game store on May 4 and has since committed all of his time to it. The store, Geek Fortress, is now one of the most frequently visited stores in Snohomish. On any given night, the Fortress could have up to 25 people crammed in the shop, playing card games among other fun activities.
The unbelievable success of the store is a bit of a mystery to Dylan, but he guesses that it is due to the avid group of people who love to be geeks. Whether that means playing Magic the Gathering, Dungeons and Dragons, or just reading old comic books, people seem to love being geeks. For those who frequent the store, it is exactly what they have been waiting for. “It fills a void here in Snohomish,” said TJ Rogers while posing for the camera. Perhaps this is why the store is so popular, the people.
When Dylan was first trying to start his shop, he had to find the right location. He first tried the city of Lake Stevens. The space for the shop was perfect and there was no shortage of geeks to fill the shop, but there was just one problem. His shop was just not ready for the competition that came with being in a city where a well establish hobby shop already existed. He had to look elsewhere. When he found an opening in Snohomish, he was a bit concerned. The building seemed too small and it would be a longer commute, but he decided to go with it and take what he could get. After six short months, his inventory has expanded rapidly and his shoppers couldn’t be happier. “I think it’s a great community of people and a great way for me to keep in touch with my friends,” said SHS Sophomore Jonah Librande.
Looking into the inner workings of the store, it is clear to see the amount of effort that Dylan puts into the store every day. Based on the plans of his customers, he will keep the store open for as long as they need it, even past midnight. The store closes when everyone has had their fun for the day and they can leave satisfied with their arms full of cards and comics.
