Some people say the best camera is the one you have with you.
In most cases, that means your trusty cell phone, which is probably nestled in your pocket or tangled up in your purse with a couple of old receipts and a half-eaten granola bar.
Ansel Adams once said, “There are two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.” He conveniently left out the third element—the technology, which, let’s face it, is often the least important part of this trio.
Coastal Delaware with Burton Island and the Indian River Inlet Bridge – between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach
Now, there’s a world of difference between those random “snapshots” you take of your cat looking like a loaf of bread and the artful photographs captured by someone who knows what they’re doing. It’s not about having a bazooka-sized camera; it’s about having the eye of an eagle and the instincts of a ninja.
Armed with a 12-megapixel smartphone, a savvy photographer can create images so stunning they’d make even Mona Lisa crack a smile. Who needs a fancy camera when you can print a photo the size of a small elephant and still have it look like art? So next time you’re tempted to blame your phone for your lackluster photos, remember—it’s not the size of the camera, it’s how you use it!
Of course, that photograph is available for you. CLICK HERE
A tragic ship collision caused the Key Bridge to collapse like a house of cards on March 26, 2024.
In the wee hours of a cold March morning, a large freighter, the Dali, lost power and steerage control and collided with a major support of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland. The collision occurred at 1:28 AM and caused the main supporting structure to fail and the bridge spans to, literally, fall apart.
Imagine the chaos that ensued when a massive freighter collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing sections to collapse into the Patapsco River below. The sheer force of impact from the container ship left onlookers stunned and authorities scrambling to respond to this unprecedented disaster. As emergency crews rushed to the scene, questions arose about how such a catastrophe could have occurred in one of the busiest waterways in Maryland. This disaster effectively closed the (very busy) Port of Baltimore for an indeterminant length of time.
Francis Scott Key Bridge as seen from the sea wall at Fort McHenry in 2017, 40 years after it opened.
The Key Bridge was opened for use in 1977. This author can remember watching the construction process for the years before the opening. The full name is, of course, derived from the lawyer, Francis Scott Key, who penned the words to our National Anthem, the Star Spangled Banner.
FSK Bridge as seen from Fort McHenry, about four miles to the west.
In conclusion
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore sent shockwaves through the city as the iconic structure crumbled into the Patapsco River. The aftermath of the bridge collapse revealed a startling vulnerability in our infrastructure and raised concerns about the safety of maritime navigation through this vital transportation corridor at the state and national levels. Investigations underway and repair efforts are already being planned. One can’t help but wonder about the long-term implications of this incident on shipping traffic and regional economy. As we await updates on this developing story, it’s clear that lessons must be learned from this tragic event to prevent similar disasters in the future.
Francis Scott Key Bridge the day after the collapse – Photo by Arthur Swartwout.
For many, this catastrophic event raised questions about infrastructure resilience and safety in a rapidly changing world. In moments like these, we are reminded that even our most trusted landmarks are vulnerable to unexpected challenges and that vigilance and care must be paramount in safeguarding our communities from potential disaster.
Francis Scott Key Bridge from the Rodman Cannons at Fort McHenry
Visit www.FSKBridge.com for more photos of the Key Bridge as it used to be.
An iconic barn near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan
Located in the heart of Michigan near the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, this Patriotic Red Barn stands tall and proud with its classic American flag design. With its iconic red color contrasting against the sky, this barn serves as a nostalgic reminder of our nation’s history and the values we hold dear. A symbol of resilience and determination, it has become an emblematic landmark for both locals and visitors alike.
But beyond its visual appeal, the Patriotic Red Barn holds deeper significance. It embodies the spirit of unity that exists within our diverse society. As different people pass by or gather around this barn, they are reminded that despite our differences, we are all part of something greater – a shared love for our country. This barn acts as a unifying force that brings people together under one commonality: patriotism.
Whether you catch a glimpse of it on your daily commute or go out of your way to visit Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore specifically to see it, the Patriotic Red Barn creates an impact like no other structure can. Its timeless charm continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations. So next time you find yourself near Michigan’s picturesque landscape, don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness this powerful symbol firsthand – standing steadfast amidst changing times yet reminding us all of what it truly means to be proud Americans.
Half of the Menominee Light is in Wisconsin while the other half is in Michigan.
The Menominee North Pier Lighthouse stands tall and proud at the entrance of the Menominee River, where it joins Lake Michigan. Located on the border between Wisconsin and Michigan, this historic beacon has been guiding sailors since 1877. As you approach the lighthouse, you can’t help but be captivated by its striking red brick construction and classic white concrete base.
Menominee North Pier Lighthouse
(More photos coming soon)
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Menominee North Pier Lighthouse is its unique dual-state status. Half of the lighthouse sits in Wisconsin while the other half rests in Michigan. This unusual division serves as a gentle reminder that borders needn’t divide us; they can simply enhance our appreciation for shared history and natural beauty.
Standing atop this majestic structure (open seasonally) offers breathtaking panoramic views of both states, with Lake Michigan stretching out endlessly before your eyes. As waves crash against the pier below, you may even catch a glimpse of freighters gracefully making their way through these Great Lakes waters – a true testament to mankind’s ability to work harmoniously with nature.
Visiting Menominee North Pier Lighthouse allows you to step back in time while experiencing an enchanting blend of history and scenic wonderment. Close your eyes and imagine being transported back to a simpler era when sailors relied on these beacons to guide them home safely. With each visit, this remarkable symbol reminds us not only of our rich maritime heritage but also our interconnectedness as fellow adventurers sailing upon Life’s great waters.
