Don Campbell Photography: Blog

BBall Season is here.

Sun, 27 Dec 2015 23:20:22 GMT

After a two week break from sports, the 2015-2016 basketball season is here. It will be interesting to see how our local teams do this year, especially Benton Harbor which made a nice tournament run last year.

Weekend Getaways-Autumn at Starved Rock

Sun, 15 Nov 2015 15:15:49 GMT

Located 90 minutes southwest of Chicago is one of Illinois’ most popular state parks, Starved Rock. Nestled along the banks of the Illinois River, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel from around the country to explore the canyons, hike 13 miles of marked trails, and in the fall, watch as the colors light up the sandstone canyon walls. With 18 canyons and more than 3,200 acres to explore, it may take more than just one trip to experience everything the park has to offer. A convenient stone lodge, built in the 1930s, offers 72 luxury hotel rooms, 22 cabin rooms as well as a whirlpool and sauna. If the lodge is booked, various hotels are located in nearby Utica, Peru and Oglesby. As a year round park, Starved Rock offers a unique visit during any season. Summer brings warm temperatures and families with children on break filling up the park's campground. Autumn brings its own rewards with trails carpeted in fallen leaves. Spring rains create magnificent waterfalls and in winter those same waterfalls become frozen walls of ice where the experienced can practice their ice climbing skills. So take a free weekend and head a few hours west of St. Joseph, you won't be disappointed.

Chikaming Township Park and Nature Preserve

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 18:50:11 GMT

Hidden along Warren Woods Road near Sawyer is the Chikaming Township Park and Nature Preserve. The 263 acre preserve featuring a 5-acre lake, woodlands, wetlands and prairies is an amazing place to visit especially as color begins to peak in the fall.

Friday Night Sights

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 03:52:45 GMT

The high school football season is flying by and after last Friday night it's nice to have some clear weather to shoot in as Lakeshore faces Battle Creek Lakeview during a home game. Also nice to get a little love from the Associated Press who selected this image as an APTOPIX. Till next week.

The Art of Food

Sun, 06 Sep 2015 14:40:13 GMT

I think one of the most undervalued sections in many papers today is the Food page. I can't tell you how many times I have subjects compliment me on our weekly section and I usually look forward to shooting it each week. Although I don't fancy myself a "foodie" or anything close to an expert, I do think that shooting hundreds of these pages over the years has given me an appreciation for the creativity and hard work chefs and cooks put in. So take a look at just a few of the food assignments I've shot over the last summer.

Prep Football Season Is Here

Sun, 06 Sep 2015 14:28:48 GMT

School has not even begun and I've already covered four high school football games. The summer goes way too fast. Returning eight-man state champs Lawrence looks like it will have another strong year and it was nice to see Benton Harbor win a game Friday night at home. I think it was the first in years. So I'll keep my fingers crossed that we have dry Friday nights unlike last year where it seemed to rain every game.

Weekend Getaways-Hidden Corners of Sleeping Bear

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 01:07:47 GMT

Every year over a million visitors make their way up M22 in northern Michigan, passing through the town of Empire to reach Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a year round destination for campers, hikers, cyclists and those seeking a weekend getaway.

Summer is a popular season as visitors struggle up the 110-foot high Dune Climb or take the leisurely drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. But for those able to spend a little extra time hidden corners wait to be explored.

Four miles north of Glen Arbor and within the northern portion of Sleeping Bear Dunes is the Port Oneida Rural Historic District. Twenty turn of the century farms, barns, cemeteries and schools, scattered along back roads and paths, are all on display allowing visitors a chance to experience what life was like too live without many of the modern day conveniences we take for granted.

Just south of the Port Oneida district and sitting along the shores of Sleeping Bear Bay is the Glen Haven Historic Village. The logging village has been restored to what it looked like in the 1920’s and features a general store, cannery boathouse, and blacksmith shop.

After exploring Glen Haven head west to the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum. Exhibits explain the history of U.S. LIfe-Saving Service and the U.S. Coast Guard along the Great Lakes.

Winding its way through the lakeshore is the park’s newest addition, the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

The paved, 16-mile non-motorized trail connects Empire with Port Oneida allowing walkers and cyclists access to many of the park attractions along the way. Pending construction includes an additional 11 miles to be added to the trail.

So the next time you have a free weekend, make the drive up to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, spend the night in a tent, a hotel, or a B&B, and enjoy the rich history of this amazing area.

Fun and Faces of the Fair

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 00:21:39 GMT

Summer is rapidly winding down and I just got finished the other week with the 2015 Berrien County Youth Fair. After covering fairs for almost 15 years, part of the challenge each year is coming up with new and different images. Sometimes you just have to have a little extra patience and look a little closer to make really solid images.

Last Few Weeks

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 03:36:47 GMT

From food pages to candlelight vigils to gay marriage rallys it's been a productive last few weeks with a lot of assignments making for long days and nights. So enjoy just a few of my favorites.

2015 Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial Service

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 03:03:00 GMT

It's been a busy past couple of months and with spring sports over I've finally had a chance to upload a few posts. The annual Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Service was held last month in St. Joseph to honor officers who have given their lives in the line of duty. Always a somber event.

Buchanan Baseball Title Run

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 01:12:49 GMT

It was another solid year for baseball teams in Southwest Michigan with Buchanan making a surprise run all the way to a state title game in Division 3. The Bucks sought their first state title since 1985, rallying against Gladstone in the semifinal game but were unable to handle Jackson Lumen Christi during the championship game finally losing 8-0.

Weekend Getaways-In The Garden

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 01:52:42 GMT

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids opened its newest addition to the public this past week with the unveiling of the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. The three-year project by garden designer Hoichi Kurisu and Kurisu International combines traditional Japanese garden features with contemporary sculptures.

Visitors wind their way around the Lena Meijer Pond past waterfalls, across bridges and through gardens as they explore eight acres of contemplation and reflection. An authentic Japanese teahouse, built in Japan and then dismantled and rebuilt in the gardens, offers traditional tea ceremonies by appointment. For more information or to plan a visit to the gardens, visit www.meijergardens.org.

Lest We Forget Tribute to Vietnam Veterans

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 00:18:24 GMT

Hundreds of re-enactors gathered in Benton Harbor this past weekend for the annual Lest We Forget held at the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport. It's always cool to cover these type of events and this year was no exception. From the first person accounts from Medal of Honor recipients such as Don Ballard and Gary Wetzel to fly overs and military weapons displays it was a weekend packed with history and tributes.

24 Hours of LeMons

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 02:29:33 GMT

There are no multi-million dollar sponsors, no race teams with dozens of pit crew workers. Drivers sleep not in luxurious motorhomes but often in tents pitched on muddy ground. Each year Gingerman Raceway in South Haven hosts The Cure for Gingervitis auto race, part of the 24 Hours of LeMons series held across the country. Dozens of drivers compete in the endurance race where the primary restriction is that the cars must be valued at $500 or less. While rules govern the technical side of the cars, nothing stops the teams' imagination and creativity when it comes to decorating. Got to love these guys.

Sports: A Look Back

Sun, 12 Apr 2015 03:36:01 GMT

Spring sports have already begun but I thought I would take a minute to post just a few sports pics from this past winter. It was a long season shooting dozens of bball games and wrestling matches and every year we usually have at least one basketball team make a title run. This year was no different as the Benton Harbor girls' bball team made it to the semifinals in East Lansing. So, until next year.

Winter: A Second Look

Sun, 12 Apr 2015 01:15:49 GMT

Spring is finally here and I thought I would take a second look at just a few images made from this past winter because in another eight months we will be doing it all over again.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Mon, 06 Apr 2015 04:48:19 GMT

Seventeen miles west of the lights of Las Vegas Red Rock Canyon offers almost 200,000 acres of desert landscape featuring a variety of geological features, a 13-mile scenic drive, 30 miles of hiking trails as well as rock climbing and horseback riding. More than one million people each year visit this amazing national conservation area so if you get a chance, rent a convertible and make the drive. You will not regret it.

Busy weeks ahead.

Sun, 22 Feb 2015 05:43:38 GMT

I've been swamped at work the last few weeks and have finally had a chance to post just a few images from past assignments. With the recent heavy snow and wind chills around -30 it's nice to have an assignment inside once in awhile and the students at Stewart Elementary School in Stevensville and their Historical Wax Museum always make for fun pics.

It Continues Part II

Sun, 01 Feb 2015 02:55:47 GMT

I always keep my eye out for unusual ice formations during winter and the ice shelf that forms along Lake Michigan always makes for great pics. I know a lot of people complain about this time of year, but give me this over the classic sunset any day.

It Continues

Wed, 21 Jan 2015 23:14:07 GMT

We had our first significant snowfall the other week and although everyone complains about the snow we've been lucky this season. It's approaching the end of January and temps are still above freezing so we'll keep our fingers crossed.

Another Winter

Thu, 08 Jan 2015 03:59:22 GMT

Winter is definitely back as Southwest Michigan got hit with its first significant snowfall of the season. I'm already looking forward to the spring.

Bball Season In Full Swing

Thu, 01 Jan 2015 04:02:31 GMT

Basketball is in full swing this season and I always get busy covering on average of 4-6 games each week. g

Thrusting the Throne

Tue, 09 Dec 2014 00:16:56 GMT

Saturday was an interesting day as the Michiana Rocketry club gathered in a field in Three Oaks for a day of model rocket launching. The highlight was the firing of a full sized porta-potty mounted on rocket engines. Weather was chilly but it cleared up enough for a good launch and the crowd loved it. Gotta love these unusual assignments.

Letters to the North Pole

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 14:35:02 GMT

It's always fun to see how small communities celebrate the holidays and Stevensville is no different with their 17-foot Santa Claus.

Pucker Up

Sat, 29 Nov 2014 03:25:49 GMT

Anytime you mix kids and cute animals together you are bound to make a decent pic. I've covered my share of fun and weird assignments over the years and this week's trip to Stewart Elementary School in Stevensville was no different. Principal Lori Kuntz promised to kiss a pig this year if the $10,000 goal of the school's annual fundraiser was met. This year $11,210 was raised and Kuntz kept her word. Gotta love small town photojournalism.

8-Man Football State Championship

Tue, 25 Nov 2014 00:39:21 GMT

Lawrence faced Cedarville for the Eight-Man State Championship game Saturday in Greenville and although it was a frigid night it was nice to see one of our local teams win a state title. Final score Lawrence 56, Cedarville 12.

Post Season Football

Tue, 25 Nov 2014 00:30:10 GMT

It was a cold and snowy Saturday as Watervliet faced NorthPointe Christian during a regional final and although tied after the first half, the Panthers loss 41-35.

Approaching Winter

Sun, 16 Nov 2014 02:16:50 GMT

We got our first real taste of snow the other day and although it was only a dusting it was definitely a reminder of what's coming.

Veterans Day

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 01:27:42 GMT

Veterans Day was yesterday and communities across the country honored those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Just a quick pic from an event in Stevensville, Mich.

Checking the Waves

Sat, 08 Nov 2014 03:09:52 GMT

Another round of rough weather moved through the area yesterday throwing Lake Michigan into a frenzy. I try to hit the St. Joseph Lighthouse only as a last resort because it has been photographed so much but I was tight on time and needed a shot. Luckily a surfer made my day.

Election Day

Fri, 07 Nov 2014 00:51:57 GMT

Republicans dominated the polls in Southwest Michigan Tuesday with U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, State Sen. John Proos and State Rep. Al Pscholka all winning re-election. It made for a long night for both the candidates and the media.

District Opener

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 19:13:39 GMT

Lakeshore faced Coldwater Saturday during a district opener held at Lakeshore High School. Weather was gorgeous for a Saturday afternoon. Sunshine and 40-degree temps made for a comfortable afternoon of shooting with Lakeshore winning 21-14.

Windy Weather

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 19:06:22 GMT

Thirty and forty mph winds this past week made for great kiteboarding and surfing conditions on Lake Michigan in St. Joseph. We even got a little taste of winter Friday with a few snowflakes. Just put the snow tires on the car today and it's only early November. Got a feeling it's going to be another long winter.

Regional semifinal soccer

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 01:40:54 GMT

St. Joseph faced No.1 Mason Tuesday night at Gull Lake High School during a regional semifinal match. It was a defensive battle the entire game and unfortunately the Bears lost 1-0.

Rainy Saturday

Sat, 18 Oct 2014 23:18:02 GMT

It was a wet and rainy Saturday but the St. Joseph boys and girls cross country teams dominated the SMAC cross country meet held at Riverview Park in St. Joseph. It seems like I'm covering every sporting event in the rain this year. Really looking forward to bball season.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore-Part 2

Thu, 16 Oct 2014 23:49:43 GMT

The Port Oneida Rural Historical District, located in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an amazing area. There are numerous farmsteads, homes, barns, cemeteries and schools scattered along back roads and paths. Many are over 150 years old and I can only imagine what it was like to live without modern day conveniences such as electricity and running water. Pick up a booklet on Port Oneida, published by the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and take time out to tour the area.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore-Part 1

Thu, 16 Oct 2014 23:27:40 GMT

This year Sleeping Bear Dunes became the 50th National Park designated with Wilderness status. Hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to the region to enjoy the massive sand dunes, maple forests, sandy beaches and miles of hiking trails. It's been several years since I've visited the dunes and it was incredible to see all the changes. Among the new additions is the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a paved multi-use trail that winds throughout the National Lakeshore connecting Glen Arbor and Empire. Plans to extend into the Port Oneida area are in the works.

I spent a few days this fall in the area getting away from the pressure of deadlines and the daily grind and it was nice to recharge my batteries. It's a magical time of the year to visit. Crowds are almost non-existent, campgrounds are quiet and the fall colors are amazing. Here are just a few of the images.

Fall Color

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 12:59:07 GMT

Fall color is beginning to peak in Southwest Michigan. Always one of my favorite times of the year.

Late Evening Light

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 03:13:50 GMT

I think we sometimes forget how lucky we are to live along the shores of Lake Michigan. Where else are you going to see such amazing sunsets?

Early Morning Light

Sat, 27 Sep 2014 23:21:03 GMT

Made a quick pic while covering the Berrien County Cross Country Invitational this morning at Riverview Park in St. Joseph. Can't beat the light.

Bed Racing

Sat, 27 Sep 2014 23:16:36 GMT

Last week I was in Baroda covering the "Redneck Games." This week it was the annual Slumberland Great Bed Race held in downtown St. Joseph. That's what makes this job so interesting. You never know what you're going to cover each day. Wish I had more time to work the event but I was rushed to shoot Friday night football. Oh well, just a quick pic.

Season Midpoint

Sat, 27 Sep 2014 23:13:08 GMT

Covered another Friday night football game last night. This time made the trip out to Hartford to watch the Indians take on Watervliet. We are about at the midpoint of the season so these last games become very crucial for teams.

Solid Week

Fri, 26 Sep 2014 14:39:56 GMT

I've had a solid week so far with back to back pics selected for USA Today's Photos of the Day gallery. Looks like Southwest Michigan is getting a little attention.

Smile

Thu, 25 Sep 2014 00:32:56 GMT

Smile. Although summer has ended it's still a beautiful week in Southwest Michigan.

War By The Shore

Sat, 20 Sep 2014 23:37:14 GMT

Lakeshore and St. Joseph faced off Friday night during the annual War By The Shore football game. This year Lakeshore hosted the game and as usual it was competitive with Lakeshore winning 17-7.

Pictorial

Wed, 17 Sep 2014 00:11:46 GMT

Made a quick pictorial the other night near downtown Benton Harbor. It's amazing to watch the starlings' flight patterns.

Barge Departure

Wed, 17 Sep 2014 00:04:20 GMT

It's always interesting to watch the huge barges and freighters come and go in St. Joseph. The Integrity, a 460' long cement barge, owned by LaFarge North America, is among the many that make their way across The Great Lakes.

Friday Night Football

Sun, 14 Sep 2014 02:24:12 GMT

The prep football season continues as St. Joseph takes on Portage Northern during a home game at St. Joseph High School. I've spent the last two Friday nights covering football in the rain so it was nice to have a dry night. It was another defensive battle but St. Joseph was able to rally in the fourth quarter to take a 17-7 win. Next week it's Lakeshore which should be an interesting game as both teams are undefeated.

Perfect Sailing Weather

Sun, 07 Sep 2014 18:53:39 GMT

Sailors race during the St. Joseph Regatta Saturday off Silver Beach in St. Joseph as part of the Midwest Collegiate Sailing Association racing schedule. Several midwest colleges competed during the event hosted by the St. Joseph Junior Foundation and the St. Joseph River Yacht Club.

Future NFL Stars?

Sun, 07 Sep 2014 18:48:03 GMT

Hundreds of kids, ages 5-12, attended the Rocket Football Jamboree Saturday in Stevensville. It was great to see these kids giving their all in both flag and tackle football and who knows, we may see one on national television one day.

Last Days of Summer

Sun, 07 Sep 2014 04:09:06 GMT

Summer is rapidly coming to an end and before we know it, another winter.

Summer Storms

Sat, 06 Sep 2014 21:47:32 GMT

Thunderstorms with heavy rain, lightning and hail moved through the area last night washing out most high school football games. Five minutes after the front moved through there was blue skies and sunshine. An hour later, lightning and a downpour. Crazy.

Tri-State Regatta

Mon, 01 Sep 2014 03:50:29 GMT

Just a few pics from the annual Tri-Sate Regatta held each year in St. Joseph.

Slow Start

Fri, 29 Aug 2014 13:53:02 GMT

It was a bit of a slow start to the football season last night as Lakeshore took on Battle Creek Central during the home opener. Final score: Lancers 2-0.

2014 Mutt March

Sun, 24 Aug 2014 15:35:15 GMT

Hundreds of dogs and their owners gathered along the bluff in St.Joseph Saturday during the annual Mutt March. The fundraising event was held to celebrate Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan's 35 years helping homeless and abandoned dogs and cats.

Ice Bucket Challenge

Sat, 23 Aug 2014 01:02:22 GMT

It's crazy to see how the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has swept across the country. I shot my first one yesterday as St. Joseph City Manager Richard Lewis endured the cold.

Summer Showers

Tue, 19 Aug 2014 22:53:44 GMT

Black-eyed susans are reflected in raindrops after a brief but heavy summer storm moved through St. Joseph Tuesday afternoon.

Walk to End Alzheimer's

Sun, 17 Aug 2014 14:30:24 GMT

Hundreds of people gathered below the bluff in St. Joseph Saturday morning to participate in a one-mile Walk to End Alzheimer's. Dozens of "flowers" were placed on Whirlpool Field to support the fight against this terrible disease that effects as many as 5 million Americans age 65 and older.

Life at the Fair

Sun, 17 Aug 2014 14:17:29 GMT

Just got finished from covering the Berrien County Youth Fair in Berrien Springs this past week. Just a few leftover images.

2014 Maytag Ironman 70.3 Steelhead Triathlon

Mon, 11 Aug 2014 21:05:09 GMT

Hundreds of athletes from across the country competed Sunday during the annual Maytag Ironman 70.3 Steelhead Triathlon at Jean Klock Park in Benton Harbor. Lionel Sanders, from Canada, and Caitlin Snow, from Massachusetts, took first place honors in the men and women pro division.

Concours d'Elegance of Southwest Michigan

Sun, 10 Aug 2014 19:40:38 GMT

I've covered a lot of car shows in my career but I think the Concours held along the bluff in St. Joseph has to be a favorite.This year I thought I would put together a series on car's hood ornaments. The intricate designs blow me away.

Images From the Past Week

Sun, 20 Jul 2014 01:27:01 GMT

Summer is in full swing here in Southwest Michigan and I thought I would post just a few pics from the past week.

Krasl Art Fair On The Bluff

Sun, 13 Jul 2014 21:43:14 GMT

Hundreds of artists from across the country showed off their work this weekend during the annual Krasl Art Fair On The Bluff held in downtown St. Joseph. I'm always amazed at the quality of the work.

Night of Dancing

Wed, 09 Jul 2014 00:51:24 GMT

Each Wednesday night dozens of men and women in their 60s,70s, and 80s gather at Hidden Pointe in Benton Harbor for a night of dancing. Friendships are formed and memories are made each week as "Old Time Rock and Rollers" dance the night away.

Faces of cherry spitting

Tue, 08 Jul 2014 02:37:37 GMT

The 41st annual International Cherry Pit Spit was held this Fourth of July weekend at Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm in Eau Claire. I was asked to spit in the celebrity round but turned them down. Maybe next year.

June 2014

Tue, 01 Jul 2014 04:25:19 GMT

Just a few extra pictures from the past month. The summer is flying by.

Traveling Vietnam War Memorial Wall

Sun, 29 Jun 2014 16:12:48 GMT

The American Veterans and Traveling Tribute set up an 80 percent size replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., this weekend at Niles High School. It's been many years since I visited the one in D.C. but the replica comes pretty close. Sobering.

Lest We Forget-2014

Mon, 23 Jun 2014 03:22:34 GMT

Hundreds of re-enactors from across the country gathered in St. Joseph and Benton Harbor this weekend for WWII and Vietnam Re-enactments at Tiscornia Beach. It always makes for good images.

Dog Days of Summer?

Sat, 21 Jun 2014 22:55:08 GMT

Today marks the first day of summer. Just a quick pic from this week to commemorate the day.

Lakeshore Softball Championship Win

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 03:04:44 GMT

Lakeshore defeated Livonia Ladywood 4-3 Saturday during a Division 2 State Softball Championship at Michigan State University in East Lansing. This was the third time I've covered the Lancers win a state title and it's always a blast to see the girls win. Just a few of the images from the championship final as well as the semifinals from this past week.

Lakeshore Quarterfinal Win

Wed, 11 Jun 2014 15:03:53 GMT

The Lancers defeated Tecumseh 5-4 Tuesday during a Division 2 Quarterfinal game at Bailey Park in Battle Creek. Always nice to see Lakeshore make title runs in softball.

District Final Win

Sun, 01 Jun 2014 13:31:03 GMT

It was another St. Joseph vs Lakeshore match-up during a Division 2 district final Saturday at Lakeshore High School and as usual the game was close with Lakeshore edging out a 2-1 win.

Signs of Summer

Fri, 30 May 2014 21:52:48 GMT

You know that summer is on its way when the Whirlpool Compass Fountain is turned on for the season.

2014 Senior PGA Championship

Thu, 29 May 2014 00:46:55 GMT

Just got finished covering the 2014 Senior PGA Championship held last week at the Golf Club at Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor. Saw amazing shots, almost got hit by a golf ball or two, but the weather held and it was nice to see a fellow Scotsman, Colin Montgomerie win the whole thing. It was a long week but I had a lot of fun and look forward to the Senior PGA's return in 2016. Take a look at just a few of the pics from the last couple of days.

Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial Day Service

Fri, 16 May 2014 02:17:41 GMT

Each year representatives from area law enforcement agencies gather along the bluff in St. Joseph to honor those killed in the line of duty. This year, due to the poor weather conditions, the ceremony was moved inside into the St. Joseph Library. Although the setting may not have been ideal, the service was still moving. I have the upmost respect for these men and women who risk their lives each and every day.

Stop And Smell The Flowers

Thu, 08 May 2014 03:23:18 GMT

In today's technology driven world I think we sometimes forget to stop, to take a moment, and look at the beauty around us. Each day I try to force myself to slow down and make an image, not just for an assignment or for a desk editor but also for myself. I know that many of these images may never be published but they are in part what keeps me going each day.

Bedroom Mass

Sun, 04 May 2014 14:59:02 GMT

Josephine Brenner's birthday wish came true this year when the Rev. Bill Jacobs from St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Benton Harbor held mass for the 101-year-old in her bedroom at the Caretel assisted living center in Royalton Township. Room was tight in the small bedroom but the Rev. Jacobs made do.

Senior PGA Media Day

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 03:02:03 GMT

The Senior PGA Championship held its media day today at The Golf Club at Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor and the 2013 champion, Kohki Idoki, from Japan, entertained the media with a unique shot. TV, print, and radio journalists went up to the roof of the eight-story Inn at Harbor Shores, which is currently under construction. From the top we could see the fifth tee box of the Harbor Shores Golf Course about 200 yards away. Idoki then proceeded to tee off from the roof, eight stories high and land shots on the tee. I've never seen anything quite like it and I don't think anyone else had either.

Productive Week

Sun, 20 Apr 2014 14:28:07 GMT

It's been busy this past week in Southwest Michigan. Spring sports is in full swing so it's a full slate of soccer and baseball with the "24 Hours of LeMons" auto race in South Haven thrown in. I also had an interesting assignment on a robotic surgery demonstration at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. Every day is different and that's what makes the job so interesting.

2014 Dirty Bird Mud Run

Sun, 13 Apr 2014 01:59:17 GMT

This was the second year that I have covered the Dirty Bird Mud Run at Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac. Last year temps were in the mid 30s and a chilly wind was blowing. This year weather was great, at least for the spectators. I don't know how much fun it was for the athletes especially when navigating the mud pits but folks had a great time and all proceeds fund the Military Veterans' Scholarship program at SMC.

Signs of Spring

Thu, 10 Apr 2014 04:03:13 GMT

From highway accidents to frozen pipes this has definitely been a tough winter so it was refreshing to see evidence that spring is finally here. Flowers have begun to bloom and Fernwood Nature Center and Botanical Garden in Niles is a perfect place to enjoy the show.

First Robotics

Sun, 30 Mar 2014 16:15:16 GMT

Teams from dozens of schools across the state gathered this weekend to compete during the 2014 First Robotics District Competition at St. Joseph High School. Celebrity inventor Dean Kamen also made a surprised visit. It was amazing to see the amount of enthusiasm and excitement these kids have for the sport. The level of intensity rivaled any high school sporting event.

Jazz Workshop

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 12:55:11 GMT

Musicians with the Newport Jazz Festival: Now 60 stopped by the Boys & Girls Club of Benton Harbor to talk about how music enriches people's lives. It was great to see how the kids responded.

Tough Loss

Sun, 23 Mar 2014 05:55:50 GMT

Made a return trip to the Breslin Center at Michigan State University Saturday night to cover Benton Harbor as they faced Milan during a Class B state title match up. This was the Benton Harbor boys' team first trip to the state championship in over 20 years. Final score was 78-59. Tough loss for the Tigers. Till next year.

Breslin Bound

Sat, 22 Mar 2014 04:47:25 GMT

Covered the Benton Harbor boys basketball team tonight as they defeated Cadillac during a Class B semifinal game at the Breslin Center on Michigan State University campus in East Lansing. Will be back tomorrow night as they face Milan for the championship. It has been a long season shooting over 50 games this year but it's nice to see the Tigers make a run. I hope they win.

Blossomtime 2014 Pageant

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 04:29:13 GMT

Covered the 2014 Miss Blossomtime Pageant Monday night at LMC's Mendel Center. It's always fun to watch the winning queen's reaction. This year Miss Buchanan's Roxie Elliott took the honors.

Signs of Spring?

Thu, 27 Feb 2014 03:29:53 GMT

Saw several robins today while on my way through downtown St. Joseph for an assignment. Thought, Great, spring is finally on its way. Then saw the forecast for tomorrow. More snow and sub zero temperatures. Come on mother nature, how about a break?

40 Degrees At Last

Wed, 19 Feb 2014 04:11:37 GMT

After months of temps in the teens and single digits it was amazing to feel today's mild 40 degree temperatures. I know it's only a brief break but it is definitely needed.

Fernwood In Winter

Mon, 17 Feb 2014 18:32:46 GMT

Dropped by Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve near Buchanan Sunday to make a few images. Snow was deep but had fun.

Lego Robotics

Sun, 02 Feb 2014 04:10:52 GMT

Had fun today covering FIRST LEGO League competition at Roosevelt Elementary School. More than 30 fourth and fifth grade students built and programmed their own robots to navigate obstacle courses. It's amazing what kids are learning today. I wish they had this stuff when I was in school.

Winter Shadows

Thu, 30 Jan 2014 03:47:08 GMT

I was down in Berrien Springs tonight shooting a cheerleading competition and drove through Andrews University's campus. Couldn't resist the warm glow from a setting sun through the branches of a tree.

-30 Wind Chills

Wed, 29 Jan 2014 01:17:22 GMT

It has definintely been a tough winter. Today was another day of sub zero temperatures and wind chills of -30. The county is planning on upgrades to Silver Beach along Lake Michigan so I stopped by to get a few shots. I was only out along the pier for only 15-20 minutes and the tears were already freezing to my eyelids. Grabbed a quick shot of the sun shining on the lighthouse and headed back to the car. Tomorrow it's supposed to be a balmy 20 degrees so I can't wait.

Only Stuck Once Today

Sun, 26 Jan 2014 05:09:41 GMT

I had all my assignments cancelled today due to the weather so it was another afternoon of shooting winter pics. Just a couple from downtown St. Joseph where only the really hardy were out. Really looking forward to spring.

Sun At Last

Wed, 22 Jan 2014 02:48:06 GMT

As the east coast puts up with Winter Storm "Janus" it was nice to see the sun and blue skies here in Southwest Michigan. If you get a chance stop by the shore and take a look at the ice shelf formed along Lake Michigan in St. Joseph. It's so desolate and isolated. One of my favorite times of the year.

End of The Day

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 01:35:26 GMT

Made a quick stop at the North Pier tonight and caught a decent sunset reflecting off the ice covered St. Joseph River as it flows into Lake Michigan. From the 30 below wind chills and blizzard like conditions on Tuesday to the 40 degree and rain on Friday, this has definitely been a week of contrasts. Gotta love this time of year. Only in Michigan.

Patterns In Nature

Sat, 04 Jan 2014 04:52:36 GMT

I find it amazing at the patterns nature creates around us. Something as simple as morning frost on a window, photographed with a macro lens, shows an intricate world that can easily be missed.

First Pics Of The New Year

Fri, 03 Jan 2014 02:35:56 GMT

I can't believe that 2013 is over. It seems like the year flew by. After a quiet New Year's it's back to work and today we had another round of wintry weather. I dropped by the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport to see Lee Scherwitz and his crew at work clearing the runways. Gotta give these guys credit for how quickly they keep things moving.

Winter Is Here To Stay

Sun, 15 Dec 2013 02:14:39 GMT

Growing up in Texas I can remember playing hoops in the driveway in the 60 degree temperatures on Christmas Day. That's a far cry from the snow, ice and frigid temperatures I now live with in Michigan. But, I've grown used to it now look forward to the chance to see things so many others down south never experience. The ice shelf along Lake Michigan has already begun forming and it's only the middle of December so I know that we are in for a long winter.