Why You Should Write a Blog...
“Don’t focus on having a great blog. Focus on a blog that’s
great for your readers.”
~ Brian Clark ~
Sante Fe, NM
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, only one third of Americans will read a book this year. Of the amount who do read, they average only 16 minutes per day. Compare this to viewing Netflix video content which consumes almost three hours of time each day. Perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise, but it’s certainly disappointing.
Back in 1966, a program entitled “Reading Is Fundamental” was launched to help increase children’s literacy. It was proven that reading helped kids with communication skills… oral & written… and afforded them a better understanding of what people were saying. It also provided a bond between mother & child.
As much as I’d like to bring back the era of newspapers and magazines, it’s not going to happen. The world has evolved… for better or worse… and the “Mad Men” days of advertising are sadly, long gone.
With that being said, why am I proposing you should write a blog said the inquisitive reader? Good question. A quick back story will explain my thought process.
A few years ago, I attended a Santa Fe Workshop in New Mexico. It was going to be three fantastic days in photographic heaven.
Upon enrolling in this adventure, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect? I simply loved the idea of surrounding myself with like minded photo geeks and getting lost in the creative life for 3 blissful days. I was so excited to shoot, process and talk photography from sunrise to sunset.
Two wonderful instructors took us through the various components of how to improve our photography and the entire experience was tremendous. The surprising element which emerged from the workshop… and one that never entered my mind… was the idea of writing a blog. It wasn’t part of the curriculum, or even a thought, so why would this enter my mind?
On the 2nd or 3rd day of class, a fellow student and I approached the instructor during one of our breaks and she (not me) inquired about writing a blog. It seems she always fancied the idea of penning a few words with pictures. But, in her words, “Who would want to read my blog?” The instructor (who’s name escapes me at the moment), quickly responded, “Who cares as long as YOU enjoy the process!” Hmmm… what an interesting answer was my first thought. He was effectively saying, if 1 or 100,000 people read your blog, what’s the difference as long as you enjoy the creative process?
I’ve always enjoyed writing, but never thought of writing as a hobby or business. My dad was a Journalist back in the day and had a weekly column in the local paper. He wrote in a easy to read style and tried to keep things simple. He wasn’t flowery and didn’t try try to out sophisticate the reader. As a member of MENSA, he had the vocabulary to be sesquipedalian (c’mon… that’s funny?), but thought it implied a certain level of arrogance. He wanted to attract readers… not lose them.
And so it began… I too started a blog about a year later. As I approach the end of my 5th year of blogging, I still find the photography easier than the writing, but consider the overall process enjoyable. I really don’t care if I have 1 reader or 100,000 as I’m not looking to be an Influencer… far from it… and don’t care for endorsements or sponsors. It’s the creative process that fascinates me, so I will continue to post monthly until either it’s not enjoyable anymore or something else fancies my attention.
Perhaps writing a blog is in your future?
Until next time…
Cheers.
New Year - New You!
“Last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s
words await another voice.”
~ T.S. Elliott
In a few short days, 2022 will dissipate into the darkness of night and the festive sounds of auld lang syne will usher in 2023. It’s a joyous time of the year; full of peace & happiness, fond memories and new beginnings.
Having heard the song for 59 years, it always has the same meaning to me… sort of. Gone are the days of celebrating until the wee hours of the morning and banging pots & pans in the street at the stroke of midnight (Did you ever do this? Apparently, it’s an Irish tradition and one celebrated around the world). These days, being awake at midnight is a rare occurrence and either the result of travel plans gone awry or insomnia.
Flipping the calendar from December to January doesn’t have any magical powers and doesn’t come with a reset button (I wish!). It is simply the dawning of a new day… a new year.
It is a good time though to take personal inventory and reflect on life.
Julius Caesar crowned January 1 the 1st day of the new year in honor of Janus, the Roman God of New Beginnings, who could reflect on the prior year and look into the future (Janus had two heads). I tend to reflect on the past and focus on the future… hence; new beginnings.
Fast forward to modern times and perhaps Brad Paisley said it best, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Make it a good one.”
So, if you happen to be a Stephen Covey “7 Habits…” fan, it’s time to be ‘Pro Active,’ ‘Begin with the end in mind' and ‘Sharpen the saw.’
Let’s do everything with purpose and conviction in 2023 as there’s always… always… room for improvement. Can I get an amen?
Until next time - and next year…
Cheers.
My Favorite Instagram Accounts
This months blog will focus on the talent of others. It’s not easy to boil hundreds of uber talented photographers down to a select few as all of them are incredibly gifted and dedicated to their craft.
There are plenty of social media platforms to choose from these days. My Space started the revolution in 2003 and others have joined the fray since then. These days I find myself spending most of my time on Instagram as it seems to be more photography related than the other platforms.
I like various photographers for different reasons and here are my top 10 Instagram feeds at present.
In no particular order… let’s get started.
1. Joe Mcnally (@joemcnallyphoto) A master of his craft. If you ask professional photographers who they admire, Joe’s name is always part of the conversation. Often remembered as the last Staff Photographer at Life Magazine, I think of him as a humble, brilliant photographer always looking to improve (if that’s possible!).
2. Phil Penman (@PhilPenman) A street photographer with a Leica camera isn’t a big deal. If you’re UK born and NY based Phil Penman, thing gets elevated to a different level. His gritty black & white photography of NYC for the last 25+ years is truly impressive.
3. Walter Iooss Jr. (@walteriooss) Considered by many to be the most influential photographer in the sports world, he is credited with shooting the first 52 Super Bowls and has 300+ Sports Illustrated covers to his credit. Enough Said... he’s a legend.
4. Jim Richardson (@jimrichardsonng) One of my favorite National Geographic photographers. He’s a pioneer who’s been shooting for 40+ years. His numerous assignments in Scotland makes him the ‘Go To’ source for images in this part of the world. Earlier this year, I had the privilege to take an iPhone Photography course with Jim and was not disappointed. The endless enthusiasm he shows for his craft is only surpassed by his excitement to learn & experiment.
5. Donald Miralle (@donaldmiralle) For the last 30+ years, Donald Miralle has spanned the globe for the constant variety of sports. Okay… maybe this is the old Wide World of Sports introduction, but they might as well be talking about him. His six (6) World Photography Awards and numerous other recognitions speak for themselves. A former Sports Illustrated Photo Editor was quoted as saying, “He definitely sees things in a different way. He thinks differently. And I think a lot can be learned by other photographers. They’re all at the same event, but nobody else saw the same thing.”
6. Paul Nicklen (@paulnicklen) A Canadian born photographer, filmmaker and Marine Biologist, Paul has documented our changing planet for 20+ years. His ability to link emotional attachment with wild animals in the most extreme climates around the globe is truly remarkable.
7. Lee Cohen (@leecohen_pics) The ski world has a hand full of great action photographers and Utah based Lee Cohen is one of them. Since my days of living in Lake Tahoe (circa 1987), I followed Lee’s epic powder images of Alta & Snowbird in the various ski magazines of the day. His images have the ability to make skiers dream.
8. Bryan Peterson (@bryanfpeterson) As a best selling author & photographer for 35+ years, there aren’t many people who don’t know his name. His books, online photography school (BPSOP) and worldwide workshops are utilized by almost everyone I know. Even though his signature phrase is “You Keep Shooting,” I would argue it should be “I Like Color!” His ability to capture color imagery is brilliant. Whatever the photographic scene, he’ll be sure to come back with the most vivid image(s) imaginable.
9. Keith Ladzinski (@ladzinski) Born in New York and raised in Colorado, Keith is a National Geographic photographer and Emmy nominated Director. He’s worked on all seven continents and focuses on natural history, climate change & extreme sports. His work is truly inspirational.
10. Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard) I don’t think I know anyone with 3.9 million followers on Instagram. Chris is the first one and quick look at his imagery will make you understand why people are fascinated with his photography. An uber talented outdoor & lifestyle enthusiast, he’s captured surfing in the Arctic to mountain biking in Iceland. He’s a Sony Ambassador for obvious reasons.
And there you have it. All the news fit to print on a post Thanksgiving weekend.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The Beauty of Fall 2022
“Forget Summer… When Autumn walks through the door
everyone stops and stares.”
~ Me ~
Harriman State Park in New York straddles Rockland/Orange Counties and is the 2nd largest in the park system. The 32,000 acres of land consist of; 200 hiking trails, 31 lakes & reservoirs , 2 beaches, 2 public camp sites and miles of streams and roads. The park is nothing short of heaven for outdoor enthusiasts.
I’ve spent a tremendous amount of time in the park over the decades… hiking, camping, cycling and of course… taking photographs.
Ironically, I can’t name all my favorite areas, as the park is full of Indian names. I don’t know about you, but as much as I respect our American Indian heritage, remembering the name of lakes such as; Kanawauke, Skanatati, Skenonto, Askoti & Tiorati to name a few is a challenge. I think you’re picking up what I’m laying down. I can find these various lakes; I simply can’t pronounce (or spell) all of them!
A colorful fall 2022 was in question this year. Our summer was hot & dry and drought restrictions were in effect for the month of August & September. Fortunately, a few late summer rain storms added much needed water to the maples, oaks, pines and birch trees that dominate the local landscape. Presto chango… Mother Nature elected to show up in all her glory.
Let’s get to it… here are a few favorite images from 2022.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The World In Motion...
“You gotta move your feet if you want to eat!”
~Anonymous ~
Paris, France - 2021
I can’t remember the first time I heard this expression, but it rings true on so many levels. We live in a world of perpetual motion. Fall behind in your professional or personal growth and life passes you by like a warm breeze on a summers day.
Photographers often face a similar dilemma when it comes to their craft… capture a slice of life with a fast shutter speed or pan your subject and allow for an ocean of motion? There are no right or wrong decisions here. Personal preference comes into play and both will suffice.
Mountain Creek Resort - Vernon, NJ - 2017
Paris, France - 2021
I’ve always enjoyed panning. It doesn’t fit all subjects and genres and thus has to be used selectively to be effective. When done correctly, it can be pure magic and surprise you with a plethora of of color & light streaks you simply couldn’t visualize before snapping the frame.
What exactly is panning some of you might ask? In short… It’s the process of photographing a moving subject with a slow shutter speed. You frame your subject as early as possible in your camera and follow them as smoothly as you can as they pass you. The ideal shutter speed will vary depending on the subject. Personally, I find 1/15th or 1/20th works best for athletes who are running (i.e. football, lacrosse, etc.). Faster moving subjects (i.e. bicycles or cars) usually require shutter speeds of 1/30th, 1/60th or faster. The speed of the subject and amount of blur you desire will dictate the best shutter speed for the desired outcome.
A well executed image can better tell an athletes story. A panned image can bring the viewer into the frame and allow them to feel the speed & agility of a ski racer charging down the mountain at 50-60mph.
Capturing the subject with some form of clarity is usually the end objective. I’d say sharp focus, but this isn’t always the case. We’ve all seen photographs where the amount of blur and color renders the decision as to what the subject is to the viewer. “Art is in the eye of the beholder” comes to mind.
Nyack, NY - 2018
Hollywood, FL - 2015
Winter Park, CO - 2016
Paris, France - 2019
Panning is always going to be a low probability endeavor. Don’t be surprised to shoot 100+ images and only walk away with 1 or 2 winners. This is par for the course and you shouldn’t get discouraged. Use your motor drive (old school for frames-per-second) and lower your f-stop to f16 or f22 to increase your odds of getting more keepers. I should add, for aesthetic purposes, select a colorful background and let the picture come to you. This isn’t always possible and depends on what you’re shooting. Sporting events usually fall into the ‘take what you can get’ scenario.
Over the decades, I’ve burned a fair amount of print film trying to capture the perfect panned image. So much so, I could probably fund a year of private college today with the amount I spent on developing & printing. Todays digital world doesn’t have a cost constraint, so fire away. I’m still in search of the perfect panned image and will continue to experiment. I’d encourage you to do the same.
Until next time…
Cheers.
In Search of Randomness...
“When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.
~ Ansel Adams ~
Ft. Myers Beach - FL
Photographers are blessed with the task of turning chaos into order. Tackling the unruly… and making it ruly. Sometimes we do and sometimes we don’t. It’s often harder than it appears as things don’t always play out as expected.
I’ve always been a fan of previsualization. By definition, this is the ability to visualize the scenes or sequences in a movie prior to filming. Although photographers aren’t making movies per se, the process is similar.
This sounds good and often does work, but for anyone who’s wandered into Times Square (NYC) around sunset on a sweltering July evening, knows that previsualizing the madness of such a place is near impossible. The visual stimuli is tantalizing & overwhelming at the same time. So much commotion… what to leave in and what to leave out of the frame becomes paramount. It takes a fair amount of flexibility and thinking on your feet before you can comfortably snap a single frame.
Army West Point Boxing - NY
Winter Park Ski Resort - CO
Depending on the venue… travel, sports, corporate, street and so forth… you hope for the best and take what the Photo Gods give you. Sometimes the results are stellar (hopefully this happens more often than not) and on occasion, you don’t capture all the images you were hoping for. This doesn’t mean you failed; rather, it’s a subtle reminder that getting rock solid images is hard work. Depending on the venue, you may have the option of going back and shooting additional frames the following day.
These random images become orphans to a certain extent. They didn’t complete or fulfill a story, so they end up in a Random or Misc file
folder. Once again, it doesn’t mean they’re bad images, but simply don’t fit into a larger theme.
Lord knows we all have plenty of these pictures stored in the Cloud or on our external hard drives. Personally, I label these folders ‘Misc 2019’ and add a new year to the file name when January 1st comes to town each year. It’s an endless loop; but going back at a later date to rediscover these images can be a very rewarding & gratifying process.
Here are a few of my favorite random images on the road to no where… or somewhere in between. To keep things uniform, I’ll stick with a sports and/or outdoor adventure theme.
Until next time…
Cheers.
Ireland On My Mind...
“May neighbours respect you, trouble neglect you, the
angels protect you, and heaven accept you.”
~ Irish Proverb ~
Ireland is said to have two periods… before 1916 and after. The Easter Rising was a ‘glorious’ failure as many historians have penned over the last century. It was the beginning of freedom as rebels took up arms against the British and changed history forever. They were no longer troublemakers in the public eye, but martyrs and national heroes.
I’ve been blessed to have visited the Emerald Isle on several occasions. I’m a “Born to be Mild” type guy, so there’s no rebellious behavior in my past. Family visits to County Fermanagh and Tyrone were always the end game.
Only recently did I get to explore the remainder of the country. It’s hard to believe an island the size of Maine… 175 miles wide and 300 miles long… could allude me for decades. Luck of the Irish didn’t prevail.
Streets of Dublin - County Dublin
Guinness Storehouse - Dublin County
Kylemore Abbey - County Galway
Earlier this month, a Covid delayed family wedding was on the calendar for July 1, 2022 in County Donegal. The wedding afforded a joyous celebration (congratulations Anthony & Grace) and 12 additional days of blissful travel to explore all the beauty Ireland has to offer!
After a lovely wedding, we set off to explore Dublin, Kilkenny, Galway, Dingle and Doolin. Let the site seeing festivities begin.
The powers that be afforded endless amounts of sunshine, blue skies and granted me the ability to drive a car on the other side of the road. “Stay Left” was the theme every day and the sticker in the windshield provided a constant reminder to follow the new rules (Note: The driving wasn’t as difficult as I thought. Although the ‘round-a-bouts’ did make me sweat a wee bit!).
Aran Islands from Doolin… County Clare
Ring of Kerry… County Kerry
I’ve always enjoyed traditional Irish music and wanted to hear as much live music as possible. My research concluded the west coast continues to promote the Gaelic language in various communities and traditional music. In short… finding live music in Galway, Dingle & Doolin didn’t require any work at all. It was as easy as finding your next Guinness… and the craic was brilliant!
One thing I learned along the way… country music was often played between Irish classics. How could it possibly be so popular in Ireland was my thought? As the naïve tourist quickly learned, traditional Irish music had a huge influence on country artists in the United States. In a connect-the-dots manner, line dancing in a traditional and modified manner, along with jive dancing is alive & well in Ireland. One song I heard at the wedding and then several other times during our travels was John Prine’s “Speed of the Sound of Loneliness.” It’s a catchy little number now stuck in my head.
Pine Island - County Galway
Blasket Islands - County Kerry
In summary… Ireland in its entirety did not disappoint. It exceeded all of my expectations. Everything from the culture, history, scenery, cuisine (yup… you heard that correctly) to the smell of peat in the air was refreshing. I can’t wait to do it again!
Until next time…
Cheers.
For the Love of Photography...
“It is an illusion pictures are made with a camera, they are
made with the eye, heart and head.”
~ Henri Cartier Bresson ~
And so it begins: You take your first picture and then another and another until one day you reach the Henri Cartier Bresson magical 10,000 threshold. He’s famously quoted as saying, “Your first 10,000 images are your worst.” I’m not sure I’d go this far; but, I get his point. There’s a lot of learning that takes place between #1 and #10,000.
In an industry blatantly biased towards new and improved… or parting you from your money… the old timers from Madison Avenue must be proud. The power of persuasion is alive and well in the photography market. Newer is better and the underlying theme is you’ll take better pictures by spending more money to upgrade your gear. To be fair, some benefit is derived through new technology, but thinking you’re going to magically go from average photographer to Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist is probably not included in the price of your new camera. That’s sold separately.
When I think about classic images; a few rapidly come to mind: Henri Cartier Bresson (Puddle Jump), Dorothy Lange (Migrant Mother) and Nat Fein (Babe Ruth). They’re brilliant images that capture more than the essence of the moment and are beyond timeless. They will be forever remembered. Do I wonder what camera the photographer used to capture the moment? Never… and, I don’t really care. Their artistic ability recorded the brilliance and the product to do so was secondary.
A quick scroll through my Instagram feed this morning has plenty of photographers touting, “Shot with a Canon R5.” or, “Captured with my Nikon Z7”. If you’re sponsored by these companies, you’re probably obligated to post 10,000 (there’s that # again!) images per year and mention the latest/greatest equipment you’re using. Fair enough. It’s a tough industry and getting sponsored can lead to financial success. Kudos to those individuals.
In the grand scheme of things though, what camera you own is irrelevant. I seem to have collected a potpourri of gear that includes; Canon 7D Mark II, Canon 5d Mark IV, Sony RX100 IV, iPhone 12 Max Pro and even a plastic Holga camera ($35). I have a few assorted lenses in both the zoom and fixed focal length options. Do I have a preference which camera I use? Not really. The longer lenses work best for sports, so I’ll use my Canon equipment. A weekend getaway is perfect for the small… but powerful… Sony Rx IV. For pure joy and convenience, the iPhone is hard to beat. Plenty of pixels and enough apps to keep me busy for weeks.
At the end of the day, photography should be fun. Don’t stress about equipment and do you have the right camera? I’m sure world renown chefs have some favorite knives & pans from the past mixed in with new gadgetry. Your vision and artistry are far more valuable than any camera you may be holding. Get out and shoot with whatever you have and enjoy the creative process. In the meantime, I’ll go back to the archives and share some favorite images from my past. What camera(s) did I use at the time? I can’t remember… nor do I care!
Until next time…
Cheers
The Joy of Travel
“We take photos as a return ticket to a moment otherwise gone.”
~ Katie Thurmes ~
Growing up in Rockland County, NY, afforded me the blissful ignorance of suburban life and the third world charm of NYC. Although the green sports fields of North Rockland were far more enticing than the concrete playgrounds of NYC (30 miles south), I think the city contributed to my wanderlust in later years.
For anyone growing up in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s, vacations were a simple endeavor: load car and go! The automobile was the transportation vehicle of choice and it afforded a plethora of opportunity. The open road was endless.
New England offered so much diversity, we didn’t have to wander far. As a skiing family we quickly defaulted into Vermont where we explored the slopes of Bromley Mountain and Mad River Glen. Summer on the other hand was reserved for camping and beach oriented activities in Rhode Island. The Carruthers Clan somehow hyper spaced from Scotland to Novia Scotia to Rhode Island with some tartan plaids settling into Warwick.
Looking back, the thought of flying to Disney, Hawaii, Arizona (choose your destination), was never even part of the conversation. Seriously… I couldn’t even spell the word Disney until young adulthood! It was too luxurious for both the era and my families budget. The sexy station wagon was always available in the driveway.
It wasn’t until after college that the travel bug got a hold of me. Perhaps traveling to far away places was becoming more main stream? Or, maybe, just maybe, my income allowed me to dream beyond my childhood adventures. Truth be told… I think travel and technology lowered the bar to include the middle class. The world was becoming more affordable.
There have been many quotes about travel over the years. One of my favorites is from Saint Augustine… “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”
Traveling is not only good for the soul, but educational on so many levels. Everything from the history of Greece to the architecture of Spain to the esprit de corps of any culture can only be experienced in person. It’s pure magic. Humbling and intoxicating at the same time.
In parting this month, I’ll end with a fitting quote from The Prophet Mohammed…
“Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you’ve travelled.”
Until next time…
Cheers.
Fear of Failure...
“Life Is Like a box of chocolates, you never
know what you’re going to get.”
~ Forrest Gump ~
Kinzie Street Bridge - Chicago, IL
One of the more notable memories… “Hey kid… don’t come back without a picture!” I remember it like it was yesterday… the good old days of photojournalism.
The crusty, old guard at Gannett Newspapers in the early ‘90’s relished the opportunity to let you know who was in charge. Working as a Stringer (industry name for freelance or part time photographer) didn’t place you high on the food chain among staff and lifers (as I like to call them). You simply hoped to get work each day and in my case, a bias towards sporting events. There was no way of controlling what assignment(s) came your way though, you just picked up what was being offered and went on your way.
Multiple assignment days were a bonus. Because there was a plethora of photographers on staff at the time, I was looking for crumbs. Anything to prove my worth and ability to satisfy… or exceed… the Editor’s request.
Each assignment paid $50 back in 1990 and required you to drive anywhere in the NYC region. Rand McNally maps were imperative as GPS didn’t exist. Allowing for extra time was always smart as getting lost was fairly common. Some of my maps were new, crisp, and full of life while others had signs of wear & tear and coffee stains. These were the experienced maps! Whether old or new, they were the lifeline for schlepping around the NYC region.
When I had to spend time in the office, the one shining star was photographer Warren Inglese. He was the oldest & best shooter on the staff… bar none. His accolades in the Press world were legendary as he was even nominated for the Pulitzer Prize on two occasions. Someone once said, “He shot Heroes (astronauts) and Zeros (brinks robbers)” during his 42 year career. Always willing to help young photographers, he was gentle in offering advice, willing to lend an ear and always good natured in everything he did. In short… a good apple to the core.
It was only after his passing in 2012 at the age of 87 did I learn about his military service in World War II. As a member of the 361st infantry division, he received a Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars for meritorious achievement while fighting in Italy. He was already a legend as a photojournalist, his service to his country elevated him to hero in my eyes.
Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs, CO
Everything was a challenge in my early newspaper days. Nothing was easy. Henri Cartier-Bresson famously said, “The first 10,000 images are your worst.” Unlike the digital world we live in now, you didn’t burn through film at the same rate and then delete the rubbish. Sharp shooting was an art form and you made every frame count. Getting to 10,000 images was going to take time. Sure… I took pictures as a kid, but shooting at this level where compensation was involved was a different story. If you assume 36 frames per roll of film, it was going to take 278 rolls to get to the obligatory ‘10,000’ images. This seemed like a forever proposition.
I wasn’t exactly sure what happened when you reached 10,001 images, but some type of celebration was certainly in order. If nothing else, you graduated from clueless to novice… and maybe even had a silver bullet next to your name.
In hindsight, I can safely say, none of this transpired. Zero. To this day, I still strive to complete every assignment better than the last one. I compete against myself and push the creativity to make better images. As such, the fear of failure always exists. What if this? What it that? Will the light be right? It never ends. While it can be annoying to think this way, I believe it also makes you a better shooter in the end as you relentlessly try and capture the perfect image.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - Washington, DC
I’ve come to realize… and accept… learning is a life long endeavor. It never ends. You have to continuously strive to improve and stay sharp. It’s part of the game. Former Intel CEO, Andy Grove, once said, “Only the paranoid survive.” Although he was referencing he chip industry, I think the same can be said of photographers.
Personally, I’ve always struggled, floundered, stumbled (choose your wording… they all apply) with black & white photography. Sure, I’ve taken my fair share of newspaper images early on. But, everything was in b&w back then so you didn’t analyze the various shades of gray. You simply defaulted to the film of choice and tried to capture the moment. Recording an image was more an end product than art form.
Today, I challenge myself to envision or see the image before it happens. Perhaps a bit idealistic, but proactive just the same. The adage of creating images vs taking pictures is the goal. The latter is easy and I still make this mistake… a lot. But, trying to see in b&w takes patience. Every image can be enhanced in Lightroom after the fact. I’m hoping to capture the essence of the what I’m yearning for in camera and then tweak it in post processing. I still have a long way to go, but signs of progress are slowly starting to emerge.
Until next time…
Cheers
Nature's Bounty...
“Into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
~ John Muir ~
As the fog rolls in, the ridgeline of Harriman State Park vanishes in the distance. The stillness of Lake Tiorati reflects the morning tranquility while the sound of silence permeates the landscape.
In short… it’s a glorious Spring morning.
The hustle & flow of life can often cloud our daily vision. Rushing to get somewhere often equates to getting nowhere. When you’re in the woods though, nowhere is often the perfect place to be. When is the last time you silently sat by a lake in the middle of nowhere and gathered your thoughts?
My father and I use to walk in the woods when I was a child and he’d ask, “Son, do you hear that?” Naturally, I’d respond, “No” and he’d proceed to tell me, “It’s the blissful sound of silence.” Huh? I’d shake my head and think he was making a funny as he use to call it. It took me years to realize, he was sharing the simplicity of nature… and perhaps life. Sometimes we have to turn off the noise and dial into nature. It takes some practice, but If you do it correctly, there’s plenty to hear.
John Muir once said, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” How profound a statesman was he? We’re all connected in one universal manner.
In Buddhism, trees are recognized as living things worthy of recognition & protection. I’ll admit to not knowing a great deal about the religion, but I tend to agree with this philosophy.
So, the next time you venture into the woods, take the time to absorb everything before you. It’s not easy to change your workday pace to the serene rhythm of nature. It may take a while and perhaps a few deep breaths will be in order. However, once you get in the zone, it’s a heavenly existence where you can hear nothing and everything at the same time.
Until next time…
Cheers.
The Ski Bum Life...
“Every skier is a morning person on a powder day.”
~ Mark Carruthers ~
After returning from Big Sky a few weeks ago, I can safely say… the ski bum life is alive & well in Montana. Sure, there’s been plenty of changes since I ventured down this road some 30 years ago in Lake Tahoe. Things like affordability, labor shortages and immigration are creating unique challenges and changing the mountain lifestyle.
Let’s step back a moment and clarify a few items before we proceed. I was never fond of the expression ski bum as I was often asked by friends and family when I was going to return to the real world and get a real job? I think a more appropriate title for my western excursion was Adventure Seeker. And, I had plenty of jobs… thank you very much. I was a ski instructor at Alpine Meadows (now Palisades Tahoe), worked as a short order cook at the River Ranch on weekends & holidays, spun records at Emma Murphy’s (DJ Markie Mark in the house) and worked as a stringer for the local newspaper.
In short… I was one busy dude.
In her wonderful book “Powder Days”, author Heather Hansman goes back to relive her glory days as a ski bum... sorry, Adventure Seeker! She ventures back to explore the cold weather lifestyle and how the subculture has changed with the passing of time and the strain of climate change. Many can argue the facts on global warming, but the statistics paint a sad tale. There is less snowfall on an annual basis and the ski season is roughly 30 days shorter than it was in the 80’s. Sad, but oh so true.
The sport of skiing is young by modern standards. Members of the elite 10th Mountain Division returning from WWII, wanted to utilize their mountains skills in the civilian world. Considering these elite Army soldiers trained in Camp Hale, CO, it was logical they returned to CO to develop ski areas - Arapahoe Basin, Vail and Aspen to name three.
Although I never had the privilege of serving in our armed forces, I had a father who worshiped the efforts of the 10th Mountain Division (and wrote extensively about them). Perhaps in a round-about-manner, skiing became a passion & lifestyle in my family.
With parents who met one another at a ski convention… I was doomed. It was inevitable I was going to be a skier at a young age. As I started waking… or wobbling… around the age of two, Red & Marge decided I had mastered the art of balance and it was time time to put Baby Mark on skis. One turn led to another and a child of winter was born. A few short years later, I found myself on the cover of the Ski Bromley brochure. Some 30 years later while living in Lake Tahoe, a group of skiers (including myself) appeared on the cover of the Alpine Meadows brochure. Call it the circle of life.
Gone are my days of skiing 100+ days per season (personal best was 150). Now I’m excited to simply get to the mountains on a regular basis. Making turns at a local ski hill in the tri-state area of NY is just as enjoyable as the big mountains of Colorado, Utah or Montana. The powder may not be the same, but I think you get my point!
We never know what the future holds; but rest assured, if I stay healthy for the next 50 years (insert smile), you’ll find me making turns somewhere on planet earth.
Until next time…
Cheers
Photographic Comfort Zone
“The comfort zone is nothing but a graveyard for your dreams & ideas.”
~ Anonymous ~
Psychologists recommend we step outside our comfort zone to increase personal growth & productivity. It’s the concept of ‘once a mind is stretched, it doesn’t go back to its original form’. Makes sense to me; it’s easy enough to understand, but more difficult to implement.
Fear of the unknown, or the discomfort of getting outside your comfort zone is the culprit. Humans are creatures of habit and like water flowing downhill, we too follow the path of least resistance. It’s the rare moment our rebellious or bad self emerges and we dare to be different in our daily lives.
A quick exercise in reality: When was the last time you took an alternate route to work? Or, bought different vegetables at the super market? Or read a book outside your favorite subject (i.e. fiction instead of non-fiction… or vice versa)? Fair to say… it’s probably been a while. And, guess what… you’re normal.
This same concept applies to photography; and in my case, my lack of portraiture. Sure, I’ll take images of people, but it’s rarely a formal portrait. It may be an image of an athlete after a game or a casual photo of a friend. It’s hardly ever a planned portrait though in the conventional sense.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing mind you… but, I do need to expand my repertoire in this genre. Working for a high school portrait company decades ago (circa 1990) may have tainted my thoughts on the subject. Lining kids up and shooting 30 or 40 a day is simply a numbers game with no creativity. The consistency of your main & fill light (2:1 ratio) complemented with a hair and back light was the secret sauce. The more consistent you were in the posing and lighting, the quicker the lab could print your images without adjustments. Less time in the darkroom equated to more sales for the company.
The process was an industry standard at the time that any ‘photographer’ could learn. Ironically, I’ve seen a few Senior portraits in recent years and times have changed. They’ve broken away from the indoor cookie cutter image(s) and took on a whole new look. Many kids are now photographed outside with nature, old cars, sports equipment, etc. Perhaps I was ahead of my time?
As I go back and review/study classic portraits by George Hurrell, Annie Leibovitz and Yousef Karsh, they all have one thing in common. Nothing. Sure, you could argue there’s a person in the picture and the images are B&W. Upon further study, each one is truly unique and beautiful. The subjects soul isn’t compromised or stolen, but rather a masterful interpretation is created.
Humphrey Bogart… Photo: George Hurrell
Winston Churchill… Photo: Yousef Karsh
Arnold Schwarzenegger… Photo: Annie Leibovitz
In any event… or portrait… I still tend to migrate to non-conventional portraits. Something with an action and/or sports orientation. Maybe a thought provoking ocean scene from the subjects point-of-view. Or simply a beautiful moment in time. All of these fall within my comfort zone, but aren’t your typical portraits.
Natural light is also something I’m fond of. This isn’t to say artificial lighting doesn’t have a purpose… it most certainly does… I simply prefer to manipulate the natural light through diffusing, bouncing or reflecting.
That being said… I think it’s time to get back to more formal portraiture and expanding my comfort zone. Maybe I’ll even try some of the new fangled virtual photography portraiture I’ve been reading about for extra credit.
Until next time…
Cheers
Fruit of the Loom & 2022
“Every moment is a fresh beginning.”
~ T.S. Eliot ~
Here we go again… out with old, in with the new. I’m not sure of the origin of New Year’s Eve celebrations, but I’ve graduated to the stay at home guy over the years. Boring, but oh so true. I tend to create my own peaceful fun. Call me old fashioned… or just old… but I’ve earned the right sit near the pellet stove and sometimes fall asleep before the official celebration.
This isn’t to say, I haven’t participated in my fair share of New Year’s Eve parties. Quite the contrary. I’ve kissed at the stroke of midnight, danced until the early morning hours and consumed a wee bit of alcohol from Waitsfield, VT to Tahoe City, CA. In the words of Johnny Cash, “I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel, I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere.” In short: Been there, done that.
Living in the NYC suburbs these days, affords me the opportunity to sit on the couch and live vicariously through the great TV coverage of festivities from around the world. It’s great to see young America in Times Square braving the elements while wearing Depends or some other sanitary product to allow for 10+ hours of standing inside the security zone (YOLO… I guess?).
Better them than me! I’m more of a Fruit of the Loom and fuzzy slippers kind of guy. Toss in a Guinness and/or Irish Whiskey and I’m good to go… at least for a few hours.
Perhaps this year I’ll even make it to midnight and hear Auld Lang Syne (never really understood this song?) and the collective chorus of “Happy New Year!”
Until next year…
Cheers.
Holiday Books 2021 - Skiing Edition
“A Pair of Skis are the Ultimate Transportation to Freedom.”
~ Warren Miller ~
The “Best of Everything”’ season is upon us! Break out the trumpets and let’s have a drum role for the time of year where the latest & greatest is recommended… best cameras, best movies, best songs, best apps, best HDTV’s and so forth.
Perhaps I’m guilty of this to a certain degree. In prior years, I’ve penned a few thoughts on some of my favorite books during the year (usually photography related). Well have no fear, I won’t bore you with my dribble this year. At least not in the conventional sense… rather I’ll bore you with something near & dear to my heart… skiing.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise; you will never find a skiing related book on the New York Times bestseller list. Sad, but oh so true. It’s too much of a niche industry to attract a large audience.
Here’s where I come in.
There is a gold mine of wonderful ski books if you do a little shoveling… old & new… historic and classic. Two are even two new books and one drops this week. I won’t call it an instant classic, but the sneak previews I’ve read on “100 Slopes of a Lifetime” make it a best seller in my mind. I’ve already requested a copy from Santa and will be sprinting down the hallway at 6:00AM on Christmas morning to see if makes it under the tree.
Here we go… Eight books to peak your interest(s).
100 Slopes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Ski and Snowboard Destinations by Gordy Megroz
This ultimate skier and snowboarder bucket list, from celebrated runs in Alta, Utah, to the challenge of Switzerland's 4 Vallees races through 100 energizing snowy experiences for all levels. Filled with beautiful National Geographic photography, wisdom from experts, need-to-know travel information, and practical tips, this inspirational guide offers the planet's best ski and snowboarding experiences on breathtaking slopes around the world.
Complete with a foreword from celebrated Olympic alpine skier Lindsey Vonn, 100 Slopes of a Lifetime is divided by interest and skill level: cross-country routes to intermediate downhill moguls to expert-only backcountry terrain, skiers and snowboarders will find the perfect destination for their dream terrain. From dreamy Colorado escapes to Hokkaido, Japan, where Siberian storms dump more than 60 feet of snow every year, you'll find countless slopes to add to your bucket list from the wilds of Alaska to breathtaking Morocco.
Brave Enough by Jessie Diggins
In Brave Enough, Jessie Diggins reveals the true story of her journey from the American Midwest into sports history. With candid charm and characteristic grit, she connects the dots from her free-spirited upbringing in the woods of Minnesota to racing in the bright spotlights of the Olympics. Going far beyond stories of races and ribbons, she describes the challenges and frustrations of becoming a serious athlete; learning how to push through and beyond physical and psychological limits; and the intense pressure of competing at the highest levels. She openly shares her harrowing struggle with bulimia, recounting both the adversity and how she healed from it in order to bring hope and understanding to others experiencing eating disorders.
The Man Behind the Maps by Todd Bennett Ben Farrow and Jason Blevins
Featuring over 200 ski resort trail maps hand-painted by one legendary artist, this beautiful 292-page hardcover coffee table book is the first and definitive compilation of the art created by James Niehues during his 30-year career. Eight geographically themed chapters form the heart of the book, offering you full-page images of the world’s most iconic ski areas including Alta, Arapahoe Basin, Aspen, Breckenridge, Big Sky, Deer Valley, Heavenly, Jackson Hole, Jay Peak, Killington, Kirkwood, Lake Louise, Mammoth, Mont Tremblant, Mt. Bachelor, Park City, Revelstoke, Snowbird, Squaw Valley, Stowe, Sugarloaf, Sun Valley, Taos, Telluride, Whistler Blackcomb and other renowned resorts. In engaging narrative that complements the maps, Niehues reveals his exacting technique, which demands up to six weeks to complete a single painting. He then walks you through the step-by-step process for mapping Breckenridge, sharing everything from aerial photographs, to numerous pencil sketches, to in-progress builds, to the final trail map illustration. The magic of the finished product is captured in both a foreword by pioneering big-mountain skier Chris Davenport and the perspectives of other ski industry insiders. Every detail was taken into consideration: Italian art-quality printing, heavier weight matte coated paper and a lay-flat binding. A pencil sketch of Big Sky, Montana, graces the cover and features anti-scratch protection. The book is 11.5” tall and opens to a spread of 24” wide, the perfect size to showcase the biggest ski mountains in the world.
Vintage Skiing: Nostalgic Images from the Golden Age of Skiing by Ray Atkeson
Bundle up for a visual adventure of vintage skiing featuring images by one of the most famous ski photographers of that era: Ray Atkeson. With more than 75 skiing photographs in stunning black and white, the snowy slopes of yesteryear will call to black diamond and bunny hill skiers alike.
There and Back: Photographs from the Edge by Jimmy Chin
The Academy Award–winning director of Free Solo and National Geographic photographer presents the first collection of his iconic adventure photography, featuring some of the greatest moments of the most accomplished climbers and outdoor athletes in the world, and including more than 200 extraordinary photographs.
Note: While this isn’t a ski book per se, there are enough skiing and winter related images that I’ll include it in the genre.
Staying Alive In Avalanche Terrain by Bruce Temper
The more you know about snow stability, the better your travel and rescue skills. And the sharper your decision making, the better you’ll be able to avoid avalanche danger and have more fun in the winter backcountry. In Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain, 3rd Edition, acclaimed snow and avalanche expert Bruce Tremper provides easy-to-understand avalanche safety tips and skills, including the latest snow research and techniques for evaluating snowpack, as well how to rescue companions in the event of an avalanche.
Freedom Found - My Life Story by Warren Miller
Warren Miller is known as skiing’s greatest storyteller and as the godfather of action-sports film making. Now, here at last, is the rest of his extraordinary life story―and what happened behind the camera is even more remarkable than what you saw on the big screen. In this soul-searching autobiography, Warren revealed the secrets of his past and the peaks and valleys he navigated in bringing the sport he loves to audiences worldwide. Freedom Found is a must-read for Warren’s legion of fans, ski history enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies and anyone whose interest is piqued by an extraordinary 20th-century success story. This is a heartwarming and at times heart-wrenching account of an American innovator who did it his own way, understood the importance of making people laugh, and never looked back.
The Winter Army: The World War II Odyssey of the 10th Mountain Division by Maurice Isserman
WINNER OF THE INTERNATIONAL SKIING HISTORY ASSOCIATION'S ULLR AWARD | “Compelling and readable . . . I had serious trouble putting this book down.”—John C. McManus, author of Fire and Fortitude and The Dead and Those About to Die
The epic story of the US Army’s 10th Mountain Division, whose elite soldiers broke the last line of German defenses in Italy’s mountains in 1945, spearheading the Allied advance to the Alps and final victory
At the start of World War II, the US Army had two cavalry divisions—and no mountain troops. The German Wehrmacht, in contrast, had many well-trained and battle-hardened mountain divisions, some of whom, by 1943, had blocked the Allied advance in the Italian campaign. Starting from scratch, the US Army developed a unique military fighting force, the 10th Mountain Division, drawn from the ranks of civilian skiers, mountaineers, and others with outdoor experience. The resulting mix of Ivy League students, park rangers, Olympic skiers, and European refugees formed the first specialized alpine fighting force in US history. By the time they deployed to Italy at the beginning of 1945, this ragtag group had coalesced into a tight-knit unit. In the months that followed, at a terrible cost, they spearheaded the Allied drive in Italy to final victory.
Until next time… happy trails!
Cheers.
Living In the Moment...
“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~
Visions of Red - Valley Cottage, NY
Back in my college days at SUNY Buffalo, I use to bounce out of bed every morning as though I was shot out of a cannon. I was ready to hit the ground running and tackle the world. Safe to say, things are now a wee bit different. As a member of the 50+ club with an AARP membership, I somewhat roll out of bed, stumble to the bathroom and gather my thoughts along the way. One thing that’s worked its way into my morning routine is saying out loud, “It’s a brand new day!” I’ve never quite figured out if I’m thanking the good Lord for another day or accepting the fact a new day affords another chance at greatness; the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life or simply another day to put my best foot forward.
As we get older, days become weeks, weeks become months and months become years. Time accelerates and its hard to control the speed. It’s an uncontrollable fact of life.
For anyone in my age band, I’m sure you remember Little House on the Prairie and actor Michael Landon. One of his most famous quotes after being diagnosed with cancer was:
“Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit. Every minute of every day. Do it!”
In a strange and perhaps spiritual way, I’m reminded of this fact every fall in my region of New York. The pleasant days of summer give way to the crisp days of autumn as sure as the stars surrender to morning light. And like clock work, a potpourri of colors appear on cue every Sept/Oct/Nov. Sure enough, if you’re not in the moment, they fade into the abyss or the lack of color season (i.e. winter) before you can catch your breath.
As such, I try to stay in the moment and acknowledge the beauty of the season in all its glory. Sometimes I’m in the car and can only gaze at the beauty and smile. Other times, I make it a point to photograph the scenery from both a micro and macro point of view. The wide angle lens approach offers a spectacular ‘scene setter’ view of the landscape while a single leaf or reflection can capture the details of the moment. Also, don’t forget to look up & down as the glory of fall is everywhere (see below).
The abundance of color can sometimes be overwhelming. So much so, it can overwhelm your senses and make it difficult to focus on a theme or subject. Have no fear, as you relax and find your bearings, you’ll start living in the moment and everything will come into focus.
Harriman State Park, NY
Until next time…
Cheers.
View from Montparnasse - Paris
The City of Lights...
With a history spanning thousands of years, Paris is vraiment unique et speciale and has the savoir faire to bridge itself into the modern era. So much so, AFAR Magazine ranks it #2 in The World’s 25 Best Cities of 2022.
There has been a plethora of movies & books detailing the allure of Paris. Everything from the romance, culture, bistros, museums, boulangeries, cafes, and boulevards are legendary.
Perhaps Ernest Hemingway summed it up best when he said:
“There is never any ending to Paris and the memory of each person who has lived in it differs from that of any other. We always returned to it no matter who we were or how it was changed or with what difficulties, or ease, it could be reached. Paris was always worth it and you received return for whatever you brought to it. But this is how Paris was in the early days when we were very poor and very happy.”
Having the good fortune to have visited The City of Lights (some call it the City of Love) on two occasions, my trip in September has forever solidified the charm of Paris in my mind. Once again, in the words of Hemingway:
“Wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”
Should you wish to read more about Paris, here are a few books worthy of your time. In the meantime, I’ll stick to the photography and share a few images below.
“Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens
“The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs” by Elaine Sciolino
“Paris to the Moon” by Adam Gopnik
“Moveable Feast” by Ernest Hemingway
Until next time… au revoir!
Cheers,
Pavilion At 68th Street, Brant Beach, NJ
Life is a Beach - LBI Style
“Anyone who’s grown up or lived on the Jersey Shore
knows the place is unique.”
~ Bruce Springsteen ~
I’ve never been a beach lover… this isn’t to say I don’t like the sun, sand and salty air… quite the contrary… it’s beautiful, therapeutic and oh so relaxing. I simply don’t yearn to get to the shore as quickly as Spring turns to Summer.
However, I think I’m starting to change my perspective. Similar to the fussy kid who doesn’t like brussel sprouts or beets, you wait a few years and your taste buds change. Maybe this is a coming of age or simply a maturity issue? In either case, I’ve seen the light!
Bring on the beach!
Long Beach Township Bay Beach, NJ
Ship Bottom, NJ
Beach Haven, NJ
Relaxing Moments - Long Beach Township Bay Beach, NJ
Beach Haven, NJ
In days of old, getting a suntan was one of the main reasons you went to the beach (some might say a side benefit). Getting your Coppertone tan had a twofold purpose… it made you feel better about yourself and more attractive to the opposite sex. Ironically, a Psychology Today article from 2020 confirms these findings. UV exposure allows your body to release endorphins and you actually do feel better. Who knew?
Some level of sun exposure has always been considered good for Vitamin D absorption. The ‘Sunshine Drug’ as it’s commonly known can be obtained simply by being outdoors in the summer sun. Most Dermatologists recommend 15-20 minutes. Anything beyond that falls into the unhealthy category.
Because the ocean will always have a magnetic pull on the human spirit, a few scientific advancements have led to healthier outdoor living. Most notable pertains to our knowledge of how the sun effects our health. Sun worshippers now go to the beach with an arsenal of sun fighting products … sunglasses (UV protection), suntan lotion (SPF 30+ or higher), UPF clothing (SPF is for liquids, UPF is for clothing), umbrellas and plenty of water for hydration. Oh yea… and a good book to enhance the relaxation part of the equation.
Sandbox Cafe - Ship Bottom, NJ
Beach Badges - LBI
The last two years has afforded me the opportunity to re-discover Long Beach Island in New Jersey (commonly referred to as LBI). It’s an 18 mile slice of heaven and only half a mile wide at its widest point. Barnaget Bay Lighthouse is the beacon on the north shore of the island while the Holgan Nature Preserve anchors the southern most tip of the island. Between these two locations, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches imaginable (Surf City, Long Beach Township and Beach Haven to name a few).
I’ve always been a four season kind of guy, but I’m starting to think my future summer endeavors will include more beach time.
Until next time…
Cheers.
FLA-USA
“In Florida, we salt margaritas, not sidewalks.”
~ Anonymous ~
Naples, FL
Around the time Ponce de Leon was floundering on the ocean in search of the Fountain of Youth, I was sashaying around Ft. Lauderdale in search of my next margarita… with salt of course. In short, we were two lost souls in search of destiny while traveling in parallel universes. His journey was circa 1535 while I was more the Spring Break variety of 1985.
Florida continues to attract people from around the world. It offers a vast array of geographical diversity; however, not in the traditional sense. Proving the world is flat could be achieved after one visit to the Sunshine State. Most of the state is at sea level with a mean elevation of 100 feet. The highest elevation is Britton Hill (border of Alabama) at 345 feet (oxygen not required).
Most visitors find the warm weather and miles-and-miles of coastal scenery a thing of beauty. To be exact, FL boasts 1,359 miles of stunning coastline, 200+ days of sunshine, and as a bonus… no state income taxes. It’s no wonder Florida is attracting 1,000 new residents every day and obtained another congressional seat earlier this year as a result.
Key West, FL
St. Augustine Beach, FL
The true diversity of the state is found in its history, culture and people. The shrimp fishing of Amelia Island is legendary and dates back to the early 1900’s. Miami is alive and well and continues to recognize its roaring ‘20’s past with the vibrant colors of the art deco district. NASA and the Kennedy Center are rooted in Cape Canaveral. The Florida Keys are a subculture in itself and are comprised of 800 keys stretching more than 180 miles with 42 bridges connecting the various islands… the longest of which is the 7 Mile Bridge connecting the middle keys (Knight’s Key) to the lower keys (Little Duck Key).
All of this would not have been possible without the entrepreneurial spirit of Henry Flagler. An original partner in Standard Oil (along with John D. Rockefeller) , he’s credited with having the biggest industrial impact on the Atlantic Coast. Building a single railroad system from Jacksonville to Key West was an ambitious endeavor not to be denied. Despite four hurricanes disrupting the building of the railroad in the Keys, he arrived in Key West on the first train in 1912. The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 was another deadly storm that washed away sections of the tracks and various viaducts. The train was never to run again and the state decided to use the existing bridges to later build a highway.
Hollywood, FL