clarkshots thoughts of the day

Modern Day Roller Derby

2011-10-25T18:08:00.000-04:00

Roller derby; What comes to mind? Is it’s the James Caan’s movie, Rollerball (1975), where the sport of roller derby takes on a whole different aspect with motorcycles assisting players as teams battle deadly bouts .To score you had to place a metal ball into a magnetic goal. Well, the sport isn’t as violent as that and there’s no world dominance agenda attached to today’s revival. Maybe you’re thinking of the comedy drama, Whip It (2009), of a teenage girl who joins a roller derby team to escape her mother, a former beauty queen, pushing her into glamour and beauty pageants. Or you’re old school remembering back in the day attending bouts or watching them on tv. The banked oval track with railings on the perimeter encased two teams skating flawlessly around, up and down jolting their jammer ahead while blocking their opponents – basically, World Wrestling Entertainment on skates. Yeah! That’s what I remember too! It was more sports entertainment than a bout. But don’t tell the participants that because their incredible skating skill, strategy, and pain were overlooked by the antics of entertainment.

Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) is the governing body of today’s flat track derby. In early 2000s roller derby became an all-female, woman-organized amateur sport. Leagues continue to grow and expanded to overseas. A large network of self-organized all female leagues are staggered throughout the U.S. My local team, Hudson Valley Horrors with its junior team ZomB Squad, have bouts at Roller Magic in Hyde Park, NY.

There are a few things you must know about this new and improved sport that differs from its roots. First its FLAT TRACK no banked track with the ominous railing. Secondly safety is always a concern with plenty of referees upholding the WFTDA rules -the sport encourages fair play (aggressive play is still fair it’s just enhanced). For the sports fan who adores team colors especially the pride in every college team - well the uniform can vary. Still using quad skates like the past no inline skates ,the jersey is the only uniformity team concept because there’s a lot of” I in TEAM”. With its more burlesque fashion accompanied by the many colorful fishnets and leggings, Daisy Duke shorts, skirts or a combo of all. The names and numbers of the players are pseudonyms or Derby Names that can be mock words, sexual puns, and or anything that might be a word play of their alter egos. Think of it this way- “Boudoir Babes with Bad-Ass attitudes” (my alter ego speaking). Their 1-4 digit jersey number may consist of a letter(s). With their sleeveless jerseys the ladies write or wear a band of their number on their arm. The creativity of the beautiful lady in her burlesque battle gear brings back the old entertainment fun in the sport, but that’s where the fun ends. Take the Horrors/ Zom B Squad for example their theme may have macabre makeup which turn the lovely ladies into ghouls, however don’t take their Halloween costume look for granted! They’re a skilled skating team that will carve you up like Freddy Krueger on any night!

The rules – One thing about this sport is that before each bout they give live examples with the help of skaters the dos and don’ts as well as positions -blocker, pivot and jammer an also the concept/strategy of the bout. The bout has two 30 minute periods with-2 minute jam intervals to accumulate points. Each team has 5 members - 4 blockers(3 no helmet cover) 1 being a Pivot (Stripe helmet cover) and 1 Jammer (Star helmet cover), BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE- a penalty box for the overly aggressive and the last bout I witness the box was full periodically during the jams .There’s so much more about this women’s sport contact sport that you have to go to one in your local area to experience the ~~excitement~~ thriller of your own. I can still envision that yellow and black team from Japan in Rollerball shouting “To-ky- o, To-ky-o” as they skated onto the track.

Check your local roller skate rink, you may be surprised a team has formed. To check out the lastest Horrors vs. Stepford Sabotage go to www.clarkshots.com

Summer Football Starts

2011-07-14T18:02:00.000-04:00

Summer football is about to kick into full swing. Some leagues started last week and one of the last league I follow will start this Friday. Before I start the opening kick-off of summer I have to admit that spring football was a blast. There were many exciting memorable games. The rebirth of New York Corrections played much better than many thought. New York Police and Fire were exciting as well as the annual Gridiron Tournament and the Jamal Davis Classic a favorite of mine.

For me the biggest and best games were the women's football. It was my first time to be able to shoot all the home games of the New York Sharks and the Jersey Justice teams. You’ve heard me many times express my amazement at how talented the women are. I knew they had talent but some of their skills changed my fellow fans that tagged alongside with me to witness their first women full contact games. Some claim they are better than the men. That’s another discussion and I briefly made a note in my last post.

Now its summer football and all the banter on the forums can now simmer down the talking/writing now transforms into action. The off season had a few teams fold after the schedules were made now I’m still trying to get dates, location, and times so I can maximize my coverage. (Update your websites so fans know where to go!!!)

Another note and first this season is the crossover games between the Major League Football formerly Big North East Football Federation and Regional American Football League. I can’t wait to see who those match ups are and hopefully I can be able to cover them. (Update your websites so fans know where to go!!!)

Of course the biggest challenge is picking the games to go to. Already my schedule has changed and I’m sure there will be more changes as the season moves along.

I did however, attend my first RAFL season game in Brooklyn between the Brooklyn Bengals vs the long Island Pitbulls. An intense game in the beginning as both teams surrendered turnovers giving the game a very interesting twist, but the Pitbulls prevailed and start off in the win column. http://youtu.be/wQ6J-KRfDe4

Well, I’m readying my camera gear, checking the GPS, and will SEE YOU on the FIELD!!

For all the spring games and previous years games go to the action – www.clarkshots.com

Women's Football Season Over

2011-06-22T18:50:00.001-04:00

Women’s 2011 spring football season has come to a close for the teams around me. Those teams being the Jersey Justice, www.justicefootball.com and the New York Sharks, www.nysharksfootball.com. Being my first time shooting women’s football games, my observations have a whole new meaning. I knew the women had talent, but I was completly impressed about how much talent, skills and passion for the game.

I’m an avid football fanatic and I’ve been shooting, Semi-pro, Minor League, or Adult Amature football for a few years. I created my first book, Gridiron Glory, http://www.blurb.com/my/book/detail/1901316, concentrating on a couple of leagues I covered and I've seen many teams. Spring football is not only for the women there’s men's games also. I had to privilege to shoot pre-season games, the NYPD, FDNY, NYCD, Gridiron Tournament and the JD Classic. Going to women’s games and men’s games during the spring really gave me a chance to compare their game play. The only aspect of the game the women didn’t have to their male counterparts was the intensity of the hits. Women make tackles but the men have a consistency of bringing the pain, sort of speak.

I was most impressed with the offensive linemen. The linemen are the heart of a football team.Games are won/lost at the Line of Scrimmage (LOS). The other players benefit from their hard work. A team can be blessed with the fastest running backs, play making receivers and an intelligent quarterback but if that team’s offensive linemen are not capable of handling their assignments it’s a long day. And I have seen plenty of long days for some QB’s which filters down to the entire unit and to the coaches- it gets ugly, but the women’s linemen were truly skilled. The Jersey Justice and the DC Divas ran a counter that was a thing of beauty. Boston Militia ran inside the tackles with “helmet on helmet blocking schemes”. Linemen picking up blocking assignments were no problem and it turned out to that most teams had excellent linemen. Passing you ask? I haven’t seen many sacks matter of fact very few. Many reasons can contribute, but I’ll say it’s because of the “O”line and the ability of the quarterback. The field generals (QB’s) were not only intelligent in reading a defense, checking down receivers, ability to scramble their “arm” was deadly. I can actually state that I saw women quarterbacks throw more accurately then some male quarterbacks, under pressure or not. The starting quarterbacks for the Jersey Justice, New York Sharks, Boston Militia and Philadelphia Liberty Belles are truly athletic but understood the chaos around them and gracefully made plays.

The game changers are the running backs, because if the line breaks down or the quarterback is struggling the team relies on their speed and strength. And every team had a couple of fast, shifty, powerful, agile athletic running backs that can explode between the tackles or burst outside the ends. If the defense isn’t as fast it could be 6 in a hurry. Look at some of the 2011 scores. I can say that this is one position that all teams benefitted from because most teams had a couple of these type of running backs. The receivers caught passes in traffic, across the middle, down the sidelines . Need a kicker/punter there were plenty of 20+yard field goals made. The New York Sharks have a kicker they call “Supertoe” trust me I went to a men’s charity game and it ended 2-0. The safety came in the middle of the 4^th quarter when the long snapper snapped the ball over the punters head into the end zone. The team that lost was inside the 30 with time running out think the coach was wishing he had a place kicker who could at least attempt it.

Besides all the hoopla about the talent it’s really about the team. What makes a team? The women not only played for their fellow players they were team mates. They have passion for the game, the love playing the game, and they love playing it with their team mates. Their egos didn’t get in their way. Never fighting or disrespecting their coaches/staff or players. NEVER!!! ( I have to emphasis that because some men league coaches probably wouldn’t believe it). Sideline tantrums never erupted and there was never an “I” in team.

Keep in mind that spring is start of women’s football. Go to a game and support the local team. I’m sure you’ll be a fan once you experience the competiveness and family friendly atmosphere.

To see 2011 games of the NY Sharks and Jersey Justice check out www.clarkshots.com

Justice Serve TigerCats

2011-04-25T19:31:00.000-04:00

Saturday night’s home opener at St. John Vianney HS in Holmdel, New Jersey, is home of one of the most acclaimed New Jersey’s semi-pro football teams. If you’re thinking New Jersey Lions you’ll be wrong it’s women’s football and the Jersey Justice ( www.justicefootball.com ) are hosting the Binghampton TigerCats.

The Justice donned in their white jerseys receives the opening kick-off. Their first possession is very impressive but the TigerCats firm up and on 4^th and long with down and distance a factor Justice elect to go for it. The QB scrambles left looking to pass, but retreats to her right, bolts toward the sideline maneuvering around a few defenders as she continues her sprint down field towards the end zone and scores. What great composure and athletic ability. The TigerCats waste no time as their outside run game is fast and furious. On both teams’ first possession they score and it is 8-8.

The Justice offense still attacking and executing, score on running and pass plays with outstanding blocking from their interior linemen while their defense forces a few turnovers. The TigerCats which showed some promise running outside and inside kept their “mud moving” style but the Justice defense didn’t break and the Justice offense took advantage of all the opportunities and scored relentlessly.

If you haven’t seen women’s football you’re missing out on and exciting event. The women have great discipline and the Justice displayed that after they broke the tie and continued to play their type of game against a bigger sized team with more players to rotate in/out. Some of the women on the Justice played offense as well as defense and their stamina is excellent as the weather heated up causing heavy fog that plagued the field in the second half.

The final score was 36-8 in favor of the home team. Being an avid fan of football this wasn’t one team better skilled then other. TigerCats played much better than the score indicates and their running game was effective it’s just the Justice executed on offense and made turnovers on defense – what complete teams are capable of doing.

Come check out a game or a few I’m sure you’ll be a fan as the many that were there to support their teams. To check out this game photos and other games in the area go to www.clarkshots.com

Is Spring to Early for Football?

2011-04-12T19:04:00.000-04:00

Spring football is in the air. Being a football fanatic I love this time of year because it’s the beginning of a sports season that continues to have seasonal games. From March to November or spring to winter football is being played on abound fields. Is spring too early for football? Being that the NFL starts in the fall and we, the masses, have been programmed that fall equals football maybe an early start throws a wrench in our sports calendar because the start of other sports like softball, baseball and lacrosse.

In March I went to one of the first spring games played between the Brooklyn Bulldawgs and New York Corrections Department’s Boldest. The game didn’t disappoint. It was well played with great attendance, many were excited that football was being played. The following week I witness FDNY Bravest burn the Bay Knights that game packed with fans cheering their teams on. There are many spring football leagues, surf the internet for local leagues/teams and Facebook can be a great source to get information/schedules.

One tournament I’ve been following is the Gridiron Elite Tournament, which has games this year in Brooklyn and Long Island. I attended a doubleheader at Kings Bay field where the Empire State Demon Knights took on the Brooklyn Storm for the 5pm game and New York Spartans versus Brooklyn Bay Knights for the 8pm game with fans filling the stands for both games.

One thing that’s noticeable at these early spring games is the condition and football savvy of a team. I guess that’s the football scout in me that comes out as I observe the players and plays being called. Not every team plays in the spring and many don’t have mandatory practices until the summer. Some players who want to get football ready will join a spring team for conditioning and some teams will participate in a tournament or pre-season games to become a football force. Some leagues are only in the spring and some teams don’t continue into the following summer/winter.

I find a great benefit for players/teams to start early and get into the mindset, but it has its disadvantages also. But the advantages I believe outweigh the disadvantages, especially building a team. Just to use a real example; Empire State Demon Knights from the Five Star Football League. This team participated in the Gridiron Elite Tournament last year (spring). Their regular season is in the FSFL (summer). Entered into a winter tournament (winter), played out in Las Vegas for the first East/West Bowl and now entered back into the Gridiron Elite Tournament this year. For a GM/Owner/Coach this is a great way to build your organization, as a player it is commitment/cost/family/and that sacrifice for some is very difficult to balance.

The results for Demon Knights are they became the winter tournament champions, won the first East/West Bowl, and now stand unbeaten in the Gridiron Elite Tournament at the time I write this. They’re a well balanced team playing some outstanding football. I can’t predict the future so I don’t know what will happen to them for the remainder of the Gridiron or their upcoming season. However they built a nucleus in their organization of football readiness that has improved their players' confidence, intelligence, strength, and camaraderie which helps tilts that scale of player sacrifice and commitment and builds a strong foundation for an organization. Of course this is my opinion, being well prepared and playing often is much better than waiting for a few games to evaluate a team to see if you have a team or individuals in the same uniform.

Playing football in the spring, being 100% biased is great! There’s a big support system in place for the players/teams and fans alike. Are you ready for some football!

Check out www.clarkshots.com for previous and upcoming game photos.

Boldest Beat Bulldawgz

2011-03-20T13:37:00.000-04:00

After shooting landscapes and lighthouses I was back to the gridiron to for one of my first pre-season football games. The New York Department of Corrections, which restarted their football program, were host to the Brooklyn Bulldawgz. NYCD Boldest held a quick commemorative jersey ceremony for the persons who assisted in getting their new season started.
The Boldest received the opening kickoff and without too much resistance from the Dawgz the Boldest scored on their opening drive and looked impressive doing so. Their two point conversion failed and they led 6-0.
The Bulldawgz started to shake their pre-season jitters and held the Boldest in check after that first possession score, but the Dawgz offense was still in a funk. Nothing happening except hard hits as both teams are exchanging blows and field possessions. The Bulldawgz turn the ball over on an interception and under the 2 minute warning the Boldest have the ball on the Bulldawgz 40 yard line. A straight drop back from the QB and a fly route by the receiver and just like that the Boldest score on a deep pass to a wide open receiver and make the 2 point conversion and lead 14-0 at the half.
The second half has the Bulldawgz receiving and their halftime talk must have put fire in their eyes as they use their run offense and break into the end zone. Their 2 point conversion was no good and now the score Boldest 14 Bulldawgz 6. Looks like the tide has change but that would last briefly as the Dawgz offense can't find a rhythm especially after their defense blocks a punt and place the offense in Boldest's red zone. Their goal line offense waste four plays plus lose yards. The Boldest get a few surge plays as they convert a 4th and long and would eventually score and add another 2 point conversion to bring the score Boldest 22 Bulldawgz 6.
As the games winds down the Boldest have the ball when the runner is stripped of the ball and the Bulldawgz dash into the end zone. But there's was an early whistle which erases the points but the Bulldawgz keep possession. They fail to produce anything and the Boldest hold on to win. The game had both teams displaying early game mistakes and one inadvertent whistle. All in all it was a tough game and now minor league football season has started. I look forward to the upcoming benefit, all-star, tournament and pre-season games. To see game photos of this game go to www.clarkshots.com under the Minor League Football 2011 gallery. See you on the field.

Lions King of the Pride

2011-01-30T15:03:00.000-05:00

Late January is an ideal time for snow sports, maybe skiing, or snowboarding. Those are some of the great outdoor sports one can enjoy in the northeast, however football is on the schedule in New Jersey. It seems that a rivalry has formed between a new team, New Jersey Irish from the Five Star Football League and New Jersey Lions from the Big North East Football Federation. From my fact finding it seemed to have started with the Irish's bravado last season as they were on an undefeated run last year and the established New Jersey Lions, also on an undefeated run, seemed perturbed about how the new kids on the block were claiming dominance...Let's just skip the details and get to the game.

The Pride Bowl was formed and being played on January 29, 2011 in New Jersey. Yes, the only football being played anywhere was in Hawaii for the NFL's Pro-Bowl. Speaking of the NFL they had an NFL Films crew filming the game for a reality type show featuring a semi-pro football team from the tri-state area. It's been snowing just about every week since Christmas in the tri-state region and the game had to be moved to another field because 20 inches had fallen a few days prior, but with the NFL looking to film and teams chomping on the bit to maybe be featured the game was going to be played.

The field was in pristine condition considering the last snow stormed that plagued the area. The weather was in the mid 30's and the sun made an appearance every now and then, but the clouds were keeping the sky gray. Plenty of fans came out to show their support for the home team wearing black and orange Lion apparel. The weather didn't stop Irish fans either as both teams had great support. NFL films was blanketing the perimeter of the snow banked sidelines as cameras and crew were shooting players and fans.

The Irish received the opening kickoff and with a few quick runs and a deep post they're in the red zone. A quick seam pass and the Irish take the lead early and hush the home crowd. Irish try a 2 point conversion get penalized for delay of game, but keep to the 2 point attempt and fail. Irish 6 Lions 0. The Lions received the kick and have a great return, plus the Irish get another penalty placing the Lions in Irish territory. A power run up the middle as the Lions scamper to the red zone. Lion put it into the end zone. Just like that the both teams heated up the scoreboard. Extra point good and Irish 6 Lions 7. Both teams seemed to have settle down and the Lions run defense is fast and furious stopping any run attempts by the Irish. Irish look for air superiority but receivers can't catch the passes. Irish seemed to abandon the run as the QB from shotgun formation looks deep down the sideline and heaves a floater that gets pick off by a defender who finds some room down the sideline cuts into the middle "he could go all the way". It's a pick six for the Lions as they add to their lead. The home crowd is jubilant, Lions pumped as the Irish ponder there next attack strategy. Irish 6 Lions 14 late second quarter. The Irish can't shake their woes as they throw another interception the Lions take advantage with a field goal right before the half and extend their lead- Irish 6 Lions 17. Halftime as the Lions are swelling with pride while the Irish lick their wounds. NFL film crews are catching groups of players talking about what happened and what they want to do after the half.

Second half the Lions receive another good return. Lions go to the air, QB catapults the ball deep on man coverage as both players dog fight for the ball the Irish defenders falls the Lions receiver snags the ball and bee lines to the end zone gets toppled around the 5 yard line. Poised to score again the Lions try an out which is well defended. Next play is a quaterback bookleg as the QB scores untouched. Irish 6 Lions 24 early third quarter. Both teams stifle the other as the third comes to a close. Fourth quarter has a few promises for the Irish but they also have many miscues, for most parts the Irish defense is not giving up big plays but their offense is not up to par to the Lions quick defense. Lions are in their territory and time evaporating on fourth down they go for punt which is blocked by the Irish and scooped up and with a posse protecting the runner the Irish score and attempt a 2 point conversion which is good. Irish 14 Lions 24. Not much more happening as the Lions defense comes up big and pins the Irish deep in their end. Under a minute left and Lions with the ball at the 2 yard line looks like another easy score, but you have to hand it to the Irish defense who prevent the Lions from moving a inch and have a great goal line stand at the end of the game. A little too late as the Lions are kings of the Pride Bowl.

For a game played late January and with the total amount of snow fall the weather not balmy it was still a great day for football. To see the action go to www.clarkshots.com

First Football Book- Gridiron Glory

2011-01-05T20:52:00.000-05:00

My first football photo book “Gridiron Glory” is an exciting and successful project. I’ve done a few small personal books with the aid of Blurb software. Blurb is an internet site that provides a way to make and publish a book of your imagination with your own photos. After you download the booksmart program you’ll be on your way. Sure there’re many other companies that provide software that can do the same, however I find blurb suited my needs.

“Gridiron Glory” started out to be a yearbook of the 2010 semi-pro season and three northeast leagues I followed, Big North East Football Federation, Five Star Football League, and Regional American Football League. This is where the excitement started to percolate because I have access to over 100,000 photos that I have taken in the 2010 season and to display them in a book format was something special. My website, www.clarkshots.com, has a vast majority of the 2010 season but the book couldn’t possibly have that many photos and here’s where the challenge started to take form. Knowing that I could only use a very small amount of photos illustrating the leagues, teams and games were going to take some creativity plus it also had to show an accurate and exciting perspective of playing semi-pro football.

“Gridiron Glory” had to be revised and repaginated a few times. It started out to be big and vivid. Its focus was now to exhibit the photos through the eyes of an avid football fan and there’s no one who can do that better than me, the ultimate football fanatic. My insight toward strategy and experience playing football is a topic in itself. The size of the original book to the final book transformed many times but the end result is an excellent representation of the leagues, games and players. The 40 page book is a must have for any football fan, an excellent visual reference for all players, as well as a marketing tool to promote semi-pro football for any organization.

There are a few cover styles to purchase and each is affordable. The soft cover in my opinion is the least book-like, meaning the book has more of a pamphlet look because of the small page count. The hardcover options give life to the book. No matter what cover you choose the contents stay the same. To get a peek here’s a link for the book www.blurb.com/books/1901316 once there you’ll be presented with a preview of the first 15 pages only. From there you can purchase the book with any of the book covers you prefer. The size of the book was a concern because during its first stage it was too expensive and now I believe it has enough pages and the price is inline of what was envisioned.

To view the 2010 season visit www.clarkshots.com click on the Minor League Football 2010 and be captivated by the action shot galleries of the talented players. The galleries cover All-Star, Championship, charity, play-off, preseason, and regular season games. Plus there’s a dance/cheer gallery that no other prior season has.

Peruse the website and purchase the book you will not be disappointed.

Consistent inconsistancy

2010-10-25T18:31:00.000-04:00

I can’t believe that, minor league football or semi-pro football, is in their playoff round or what many call the second season. The three leagues I followed -Big North East Football Foundation www.bneff.org , Five Star Football League www.fivestarfootballleague.com , and the Regional American Football League, www.rafl.net are in full playoff mode.

There were many upsets but upset is an interesting concept because the teams that make the playoffs are teams that since inception wanted to be champions and in order to fulfill their goal they must beat the team they line up against. So the underdogs are prepared to play as hard and skillful as the favorite and some do beat the favorites. In my mindset its not an upset just a win in a sequence of many that are needed to get the “Chip”.

My observation since, the first pre-season games, the last regular season games, and a round or two in the playoffs , have some consistent inconsistencies. Yeah! Let’s say that again- I noticed since the pre-season games that some negative consistent tendencies continued into the playoffs that make me SMH. The list isn’t long but its definitely a momentum changer and disrupts the flow of a team. Before I divulge into them let me state that I’m a true believer of the things that can be controlled and things that can’t be. And the below observation is stuff from 7 months of 2010 football that may contribute to the way a team performs prior to and during a game.

Uncontrolled stuff

Weather- Both teams have to play in it.

Traffic- Seems strange to be put here put some players get caught in it.

Referee calls- This one makes me chuckle because just about every teams philosophy is that the refs are against them when a miss call or bad call doesn’t go their way. Understandable in all logic but I’ve witness plenty of great plays and poor plays that are contributed to the referees being the culprit when they are not. And yes I’ve witness the referee making horrendous calls, but statistically their calls are not the reason why you lost the game as you may perceive. I’m not here to change your mind but everybody has been told numerous times to "back up to the white/yellow lines". LOL

Injuries- Hate to see them and for all those that experience a season ending injury I hope you have a speedy recovery.

Turnovers*- Some turnovers are uncontrollable the tip ball, bad hand off exchange, or unexpected hit.

Controlled stuff

Personal fouls. They usually occur because someone is frustrated and seems to creep in on the winning team because a player feels he’s been disrespected, or a referee isn’t calling a specific call. On the losing team it could be the same reason as stated, but really jumps out when it’s close to the end of a game. Usually it’s the player everyone knows will be the one who will get this call. OH! My favorite team killer the intentional un-sportsmen like conduct after a touchdown or sack is when you usually see this one but I seen a receiver get one for spiking a ball after a catch. I can't forget taking the helmet off- still happens! This next one is a new one I seen it twice in the last week playoffs – a civilian clothe player running onto the field to dispute a call made by a referee. As if not being in football attire or a coach was going to change the ref’s point of view?

Turnovers*- Some turnovers are controllable. QB’s/RB’s usually trying to make something happen and the ball has somehow ended up going the wrong way. Loosely running with the ball and I’m shocked that I don’t see more because of the way the ball is held.

Chain gang- Home team has to supply them, but many games have been delayed because of it. p.s. make sure the people assigned stick around for the entire game! I saw an early game where cones were used. The refs could have called the game but used cones and the refs moved them up and down the field. Another time a game was delayed 25 minutes until the chains arrived.The delayed caused the home team that was moving the ball in the closing minutes to lose because it was a night game and the lights went out. If the game started on time who knows the outcome of the late rally?

My biggest controlled inconsistency which was my point occurs just about every game no matter how many times a team calls out names to get it corrected this one consistent inconsistency plagues teams to this day- Ready- PUNT TEAM – I don’t understand why? but I seen teams take time outs because of this. Usually on third down I can hear “punt team get ready” and yet they still have problems.I recall a team taking 2 time outs back to back because of punt team. Taking a time out because you can’t get the correct personal on the field is inexcusable but it happens 7 months in and punt team is still an anomaly.

Football knowledge – A few players don’t know the rules I’m not stating that you should know all of them but here are some that aren’t rules just common sense- keeping someone in bounds, trying to run out of bounds. Knocking down a pass on fourth down and not intercepting it. I seen a team with fourth and mile throw a hail mary to the end zone it was picked off and the player was tackled at the 1 yard line. If he didn’t intercept his team would be a the 50 yard line he put his team at the 1. Next play a safety. The hail mary resulted in 2 points wasn’t the 6 but better than a punt.

A few attitude adjustments and smart team play can turn the outcome of games and may times it does but for the wrong reason because a team falls prey to what they think is a continuous amount of bad calls, causing dumb penalties, and no football common sense.

I'm sure you guys have a few please leave comments because this could lead to a building block of correctness and who knows if you correct some of these your team may be in the hunt for the "Chip"

Check out the action photos of the 2010 football season at www.clarkshots.com

Motorsports Photography Workshop

2010-09-07T17:44:00.000-04:00

I’d enrolled into a motorsports photography workshop being held at one of my favorite racing venues, Lime Rock Park.(www.limerock.com) It was being held over the Labor Day weekend for Lime Rock it was their Historic Festival XXVIII. I attended the 2 day event, Friday and Saturday plus a 1 day digital workshop on Sunday.

Lime Rock had 3 experienced professional photographers Rick Dole, George Tiedemann, and Robert Laberge combined they have many years of motorsport photography experience they were giving us instructions and techniques. Nikon was a sponsor and the class had an opportunity to use many camera bodies and lenses in the Nikon family. The Historic Festival had a plethora of cars from the early years of racing to later years. There’re cars with top speeds under 100mph versus cars with top speeds close to 200mph. Friday morning after the introductions and safety guidelines we headed out with Rick to the “Essess” for our first session. At this spot Rick was giving us instructions on how to set up a shot and safety rules , because we’re on track side and there’s barriers you need to be aware of and where one can’t be standing. From there we moved to other advantageous positions along the track during the breaks of the various racing. The morning session seemed to go by fast and every spot had of course many areas to shoot the race, you as a photographer just had to tell the story.

The afternoon I was with George’s group and we started out at “Big Ben” this spot has the view of the start/finish of the race with cars coming straight at you before they make the turn into “Big Ben”. Big glass and fast glass are what’s preferred here. What’s big glass and fast glass? Big glass is anything over 400mm and fast glass is anything with apertures at f4 and larger. I was using my 70-200mm with a 2x extender giving me 400mm and my aperture was at f4. It was ok, until I had the opportunity to use Nikon D3s body with a 600mm f4 lens. The 600mm lens is not only big and fast it’s also heavy. Lugging that around half the day on Saturday was a chore. Many spectators commented on the size of this lens as I was moving from site to site. It’s one of the biggest lenses Nikon has and with 2 hoods attached it looks more like a rocket launcher than a lens.

Friday morning we got in groups, gathered geared and went out to various sites. At lunch time we came back had lunch our photos could be critiqued by any of the instructors. Afternoon was just like the morning and after racing we could have photos critiqued again. Saturday morning started out like Friday but after lunch you could go track side or go into the paddock to take photos of cars, crew or both using flash with ambient light. I chose to use Nikon’s gear and went out with the D3s and 600mm in the morning and after lunch I used Nikon’s 70-200mm just like my Canon’s 70-200mm using both cameras at the various sites to give me a comparison even though the Nikon’s gear was newer the Nikon body was a 35mm format not like my 7D which has a 1.6 crop factor.

Sunday there’s no racing at Lime Rock but they have a car show that’s unbelievable. So many cars the Ford Corbras, Shelbys, and GTs were my favorite spots. But you can’t go wrong with Lotus’, Porches’, Ferarries, BMWs and the vintage cars that were lined up throughout the track. Jon L was the digital instructor who taught the class about calibrating monitors and cameras plus using our eye to see circles, triangles, repeating elements and setting up preferences in Photoshop.

All in all I learned a lot of great tips like the Dutch tilt. A great lesson was when Rick mounted a camera on a race car to give the illusion of speed. I know that Lime Rock received positive feedback from the class and they may do it again next year – if so I’m there.

No Call, Bad Call, or Breakdown

2010-08-05T17:45:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I travelled to photo shoot a few semi-pro football games. My first stop was in Brooklyn at Tilden HS. The Five Star Football League (www.fivestarfootballleague.com) had a pivotal game between the host Brooklyn Bulldawgs (1-0) versus the NYC Falcons (0-1). The Falcons on their first possession soar down field and go ahead. As the game progresses both opponents were clashing hard trying to put their foe away, but their evenly match play was making it a challenging task. In the 4^th quarter the game takes an interesting path. Falcons have the ball around the red zone of the Bulldawgs it’s 4^th down and Falcons dial up a pass. The errant pass finds its way into a defender who gets tackled at the 1 yard line Bulldawgs ball. Bad call? The Bulldawgs can’t manage to budge from the 1 so on third and long they elect to quick kick out of their end zone. The ball is blocked and recovered by Falcon defense at the 1 yard. Falcons score next play- go ahead. Bad call or Breakdown? Under 4 minutes and no time outs the Bulldawgs have the ball start marching down field. They are eating up the clock and showing great poise in this pressure situation. They eventfully score on a QB scramble, the Falcon defense seemed inept. Breakdown? Bulldawgs seemed to do the impossible and go ahead by a point. The Dawgs sideline is excited and they should be their last drive was impressive. Looking at a 2-0 start and an emotional comeback the Dawgs tell players that nothing deep or behind them. The Falcons come out next play throw down the left sideline for a 50 yard gain and place the ball on the 2 yard line. Breakdown? Are you kidding me? Less than 15 seconds remain and the Falcons run right scoring the winning touchdown. The Dawgs upset screaming at the referees ‘ stating a holding call should’ve been called. Did the referee miss a No call? The win would have been huge for the Bulldawgs they would be 2-0 and devastating for the Falcons they would be 0-2. Now both teams are 1-1 and settle in the middle of the division. The rematch is going to be wild….

My second stop was at Kingsbay in Brooklyn a Big North East Football Federation (www.bneff.com )home of the Mariners who (1-0) are schedule to battle the Hudson Valley Cowboys who also (1-0). The Mariners have a great tradition and are one of the semi-pro elite teams. The game is looking positive for the Cowboys as they are toe to toe with the Mariners. Mariners score first to flex their might but the ensuing kickoff was returned 90+ yards and the Cowboys return the jester. Mariners score again but the Cowboys seemed unfazed and mount a drive for a score . The score Mariners 14 Cowboys 12, the Cowboys go for 1 point and not the 2 point to tie - make the extra point. Bad Call? The score at the half Mariners 14 Cowboys 13. The second half is heating up as the Mariners look to control the game - kick a field goal to distance their lead. The Cowboys come out throwing and one pass gets tipped and intercepted. Next play a 15 yard penalty against the Cowboys. Breakdown? Mariners take advantage and score a few plays later. The Cowboys defense seems suspect , especially the middle! Breakdown? Mariners are finding holes in the middle and throw a few deep passes. The Cowboys get an outstanding play as they blitz and sack the qb for a big loss but the player who made the outstanding play throws his helmet off to celebrate. Breakdown? Well the battle continues and the miscues follow the Cowboys as another pass was picked off at a time the Boys seemed to be back on the same page. It doesn’t end well for the Boys and the Mariners continue their winning ways as the Cowboys fall (1-1). If you ask the Cowboys – the refs missed a lot of No Calls for the home team, if you ask the Mariners the coaching staff had Breakdowns and didn’t focus on the game at hand.

My last game of the weekend was also another BNEFF on Sunday in Yonkers, NY for what I called the Best of Westchester. The Westchester Packers (0-1) hosted the Westchester Steelers (0-1). This is the very first meeting of the teams as these teams have history within themselves as one broke off to form in another league and now their paths have met. Both teams are looking for a “W”in the win column and this would be the perfect setting to get it. The Steelers get the ball first and the Packers defense is all over them. The Packers have the ball and move miserly down field as the Steelers defense is holding their own. There’s a penalty called against the Steelers, which starts the coach foaming at the mouth and screaming at the refs. Was there a Bad Call? Don’t know but the Packers inch closer to the goal line and after a few plays throw a 15 yard jump ball down the right sideline at the one- on- one coverage and the receiver pulls it in for the first score. The coaching staff still steaming over the flag and questioning the knowledge of the head referee. The game continues at its hard hitting not giving an inch attitude. The Packers go back to pass and the receiver makes a catch, gets hit hard, the ball pops free and the Steelers pounce on it. Steelers ball, hold up the referee is giving the ball to the Packers at the spot of contact, but the Steelers recovered the ball how can it be the Packers ball? Bad Call? Of course the Steelers coaching staff is in an outrage and a few plays later the Packers go to that one –on- one coverage and toss a longer pass for the same results and lead 14-0. Breakdown? Not looking good for the Steelers but looking great for the Packers. The Steelers do score in the 4^th and get an open wide receiver for the 2 point conversion but that would be the only bright spot for them.

My observation being that I have to ability to roam around the perimeter of the gridiron I hear a lot of chatter from both sides and depended on the refs call or no call its either great or horrendous and that depends on what side of the call you’re on. And of course no matter there’s always a complaint about how bad the referees call a game and not much on how bad a team plays. I do not speak for the teams, refs or leagues I’m about as neutral as one can be however, I have seen some questionable calls just as I have seen some players doing bad selfish, intentional, and stupid things. Its football which is emotional and demanding and with each bad is the greater good and the above games were good games, exciting to watch so join me bring a friend or two and brace yourself for something special. Go check out the above games at www.clarkshots.com or other games throughout the season

A New Constellation Has Formed

2010-07-30T19:08:00.000-04:00

Over the July 24-25 weekend the new Five Star Football League started it's inaugural season with 5 games being played at Evander Childs, HS in Bronx, NY.Three games being played on Saturday and the final two on Sunday. What a way to start the season with 5 games at one location. The first game dubbed the Pioneer Cup started the first big bang as the red and black Empire State Demon Knights collided with the emerald green Long Island Hurricanes. As both masses swirled and burst upon one another to gain superiority the more intense Demon Knights exploded and took control of the game with an accurate air attack and solid defense becoming the first team to win in the first Five Star Football League contest and take home the Pioneer Cup.

The second star formation pitted the NY Bandits going against long time nemesis the NYC Falcons. The Falcons were designated the home team even though the coordinates clearly were home of the navy blue and white Bandits.The Bandits scored on a quick pass as the QB threw a comet to a wide receiver bolting down the seam. But that was all the flare that would be seen in this game. It was mostly big banging as both teams were trying to take the other out like heavyweight prize fighters slugging to wear their opponent down. There was a long field goal attempt by the Bandits that hit the upright which may have clipped the wings of the Falcons as the Falcon defense played tough through out the game.There were great defensive plays especially the interception by the ferocious Falcons as one floated back in zone coverage and turned the play into a pick six. The Boys in Blue weren't fazed as they continued there onslaught and gained their composure and went back on top and didn't look back.

The last sighting on this day would have the Nassau Punishers, draped in white and black versus the Long Island Lions sporting blue and gold. The Punishers were in for a squabble with a focused Lion team. The Punishers scored first on a power run that went straight through the heart of the Lions' defense. It seemed that play may have set the tone but the Punishers not immune to turnovers place a fumble right into the hands of the attacking Lions who scoop up the loose ball as a pride of defenders trot into the end zone to tie the score. Now it's a game but that soon would end as the Punishers truly in control threw back to back touchdowns that were negated for an offensive penalty on both tosses. The Punisher's also faked a punt for a first down and while the Lion defense came up big for four straight plays keeping the Punishers on the 3 yard line their offense couldn't move forward and instead got sacked for a safety. The game was tight as the Punishers finished the day with a "W" in the win column. To see the results and teams of this new league go to www.fivestarfootballleague.com to check out the action of the games go to www.clarkshots.com .

Coal Miner Roller-coaster

2010-07-12T20:19:00.000-04:00

Saturday night I made my way to Scranton Memorial Stadium to photo shoot the annual Coal Miners Bowl. Tonight it's the 3rd annual game between the host Northeast Pennsylvania Miners, www.nepaminers.com versus the Schuylkill County Coal Crackers, www.sccoalcrackers.com The NEPA Miners have won the previous games and would love to keep that streak perfect and hold on to the coveted Coal Miners Trophy for another year.
The evening was just picturesque at the stadium with the Pocono Mountains in the distance, the sky clearing as the white clouds hovering with the golden sun. The Miners were practicing on the field as I arrived and the band was setting up for their halftime show. The crowd started filling the stands the band was now rehearsing and the Miners were at the north end of the field. For home games the Miners donned in their black jerseys with yellow trim have a swaying movement from side to side while "Eye of the Tiger" plays over the sound system as they approach the end zone, it has a very intimidating effect resembling a swarm of yellow jacket bees.

The Miners receive the kick off and have good field position. After a few plays the QB floats back and releases a pass to an open receiver who makes a defender miss as he scampers in for the first points of the game. The extra point is no good and the Miners are up 6-0. The Coal Crackers don't seen to be starting out as fortunate as their foe and give the ball back over. The Miners seem to be on the same page and march down the field for another score. They try a 2 point conversion and failed and the score is 12-0 for the home team and to the delight of their faithful fan base.

During the end of the 1st and start of the 2nd quarters both teams are battling hard. A score by the Coal Crackers can make this a game or a score by the Miners and it could get out of hand. The Coal Crackers have the ball, their running game stopped, they have a little life in their passing attack. QB rolls to his right and catapults a deep pass down field, there's one on one coverage, both players jump the Miner player falls to the turf as the Coal Cracker receiver strolls scores easily. Wow! Just like that it turns into a game, they convert the 2 point conversion and score stands at 12-8. Looks like life was pumped into the Coal Crackers, unfortunately it didn't last long as the Miners regroup with a few passes and find the end zone - the extra point good- Miners lead 19-8 which stands at the half.

The sun is gone, darkness creeps in, stadium lights brighten the field. The 3rd quarter begins the Coal Crackers don't show any signs of improvement on their run offense but their passing attack is deadly. Same can be said of the Miners who had the upper hand before the half but now also struggling with their run game. The 3rd quarter seemed to have fast forward and the 4th is upon the teams with the Coal Crackers down two scores. Both offenses have found holes in the defense with the pass and Coal Crackers take advantage as they strike with a pass that's end zone bound to close the gap 19-16. The defense of the Coal Crackers stop a threat in their red zone and now with the ball the Coal Crackers continue their aerial assault and land in the end zone again and lead 22-19. Are you kidding me! Coal Crackers scored twice in this quarter with time evaporating and the home team and fans are stunned. The Miners come out running hard and throw quick passes that are cracking the Coal Crackers' defense and with power running plays they are back in the red zone. With a medium pass to the back of the end zone the Miners strike back to take the lead.The crowd and team erupt with jubilation as time is running down, but there's a flag that calls off the score.The Miners settle down and attempt another pass- there's another flag! It's on the defense and first and goal with time ticking down. Miners go with a QB sneak make it and lead 26-22 with a minute left. Exciting! As everyone's emotions took a wild roller-coaster ride.

The Coal Crackers down a touchdown toss a deep seam pass and connect as the receiver falls to the turf he gets up and sprints 50 yards for a touchdown now the Coal Crackers regain the lead 28-22 with 45 seconds left. Coal Crackers scored 3 touchdowns in this quarter oh man! The Miners' bench is in an uproar stating the receiver was touched when he hit the ground and shouldn't be allowed to advance the ball, but it falls on deaf ears as the play stands and we are back on the roller-coaster. (tick tick) the clock is winding down as the Miners get the ball, also accurate with their passing they attack (tick tick) call a time out with 14 seconds left. QB scoots to his right (tick tick) scrambles back to the middle (tick tick) dumps a pass to a crossing receiver running to his left (tick tick) bounces off a defender bee lining down the sideline toward the end zone two defenders closing fast- there's a collision at the 2 yard line and the Miners score! With 4 seconds left in the game the Miners did the impossible and regain the lead 32-28, the extra point good - NEPA Miners 33 Schuylkill County Coal Crackers 28 the stadium is rocking as the roller-coaster has come to a complete stop as time expires. 5 combined touchdowns scored in the middle of the 4th quarter and 1 touchdown apiece by both teams under a minute.
Check out the action shots at www.clarkshots.com

Never Say Die

2010-07-11T19:14:00.000-04:00

On Saturday July 10, 2010 my agenda was to photo shoot 2 games. The first game was in Brooklyn at the Brooklyn Tech HS. It was opening season for the Regional American Football League (RAFL) www.rafl.net and on the schedule was the NY Predators www.nypredators.net pitted against the King County Blackhawks www.kingscountyblackhawks.com. My day looked almost wash up for it was torrential down pour in my area and I was double checking my rain gear not only for my but for my camera. I had to be dry for the 2 hour game plus I wanted to go to Pennsylvania to catch the annual Coal Miner game. I debated about going because of the heavy rain and distance to Brooklyn let alone Pennsylvania. I checked the weather and thunderstorms were looming all over the east coast, not a good sign. I thought that if it's raining here it's not raining at my destination so I'll give it a go.
Good thing because the torrential rain seemed to be in Dutchess County and as I made my way south the rain hadn't come but the sky was grey. At the field I was debating about bringing my rain gear to the field my camera was already water protected so if I had to make a mad dash to the car at least the camera would be safe.

The Predators were donned in their royal red while the Blackhawks were in their daunting black. The Blackhawks were getting the ball first while the Predators were defending the east side goal. Things didn't look good for the Blackhawks on their first possession they fumbled the ball and things went down hill very quick for the men in black.The storm that I left I was hoping it wouldn't follow but it looked as if it had followed the Blackhawks because it was code red for them all day.
The Predators dominated from the beginning to the end and the score which ended very lopsided showed either the great skill of the Predators or lack of from the Blackhawks. In spite of being outmatched the Blackhawks kept their composure and finished the game with the heads held high but their game play wasn't anything that resembled their pride and resilience. For lack of embarrassing a team on its first day, because I'm sure any loss is hard to take but the Blackhawks were dismantled on every phase of the game. So I'm not going to put any more notes on this post but I have to congratulate the Predators because they came to play and play they did. You can't fault them because they lined up against their opponent and executed plays well. They were well prepared and played almost flawless.
It was the first game and we would have to see how the rest of the season unfolds for both teams. Good luck to both organizations and hopefully I can have an opportunity to see the rematch.

To see the action go to www.clarkshots.com

Back To Life- Sorry For The Delay

2010-06-14T19:31:00.000-04:00

Where do I begin? Please forgive me for my time off, it's just shameful not keeping up with what's been happening. Of course, I can say if you are a fan of clarkshots.com on Facebook than you have seen excellent photos of where I've been and what I've been doing, but if not let me get you up to speed. Let me break this post down to something like back to the future.

One reason for my lapse has been family. My daughter is a senior now and getting ready to graduate and attend college. When she was a junior besides her activities in school sports she also was a debutante and had a cotillion that was sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. That kept me busy with games and practices for the cotillion dance. Plus she's going to college and college visits etc..Did I mention the prom? That will keep you busy and I was very happy to be busy doing these things with her. The cotillion was very nice by the way.

Let's go back to the last post and semi-pro football was just starting its spring league. I attended a charity game between the New York Bandits www.nybandits.org vs NYPD Finest www.nypdfootball.com. Well the football fun didn't stop there. There was a Gridiron Elite All-star game, www.gridironelite.org at Kingsbay field in Brooklyn. Then there was the Gridiron Elite football spring tournament that crowned the Kingsbay Knights as the champions. There were many great games and to view them check out www.clarkshots.com. The Big North East Football Federation, www.bneff.org, also had their all-star game at Lombardi Stadium in New Jersey where the Empire Division beat the Keystone Division. Photos also can be viewed at www.clarkshots.com.
A new league formed- The Five Star Football League, www.fivestarfootballeague.com, which is looking like a very exciting and competitive league. This weekend I attended a doubleheader in Schenectady, NY at Larry Mulvaney Field to see the Glen Falls Greenjacket, www.eteamz.com/GreenjacketsFB versus the New York Spartans, http://nyspartans.org/
for the first game. The New York Bandits, www.nybandits.org versus the Albany Metro Mallers, www.eteamz.com/MetroMallersFootball/ for the second game.

Looking forward to hiking the trails in the Adirondacks as well as the Catskills so I've have a lot of traveling to do. I took a photography landscaping workshop with one of my favorite award winning landscape photographer, Tom Doyle, you have to see his work at www.ImagesAtTheEdgeOfLight.com and you'll see some wonderful images. I plan on attending a wonderful outing to Bannerman Castle with another one of my favorite award winning photographer, Robert Rodriguez Jr., his beautiful work is at www.robertrodriguezjr.com.

Another passion that I'm enjoying is auto racing. Over the Memorial Day weekend I went to Lime Rock Park, www.limerock.com, and had a blast during their Rolex series, which had the Ford Mustang Challenge and Continental Tire Challenge. I have a 3 day workshop over the Labor Day holiday which I'll be hanging out with the professionals on the other side of the track, the part with no guardrails or fences, I'm very excited about. And I may stop by New Lebanon to check out drag racing, www.dragway.com
As you can see my plate is full maybe too full, but I'll have photos and reviews for you. Of course the regular summer stuff will be going to the annual balloon festival and a trip to Rhinebeck to check out the airshow, www.oldrhinebeck.org , a July 4th celebration and fairs/carnivals etc. Click on one of these links or all of them to give you an ideal of what you may want to do on one of those "what am I gonna do today" moments.
Well that's the plan from now till then.
Check out the latest photos at www.clarkshots.com

NYPD Battered Bandits

2010-03-21T12:58:00.000-04:00

Today's weather was in the low 70's bright, sunny and an outstanding day to see a football battle during a time where college basketball seems to be the top sport during this time of March. On this first day of spring 2010 at Mount Saint Michael Academy's Promuto Stadium in Bronx, NY we have the NYPD Finest football team draped in their royal blue and gold, www.nypdfootball.com against the New York Bandits, nybandits.org. sporting their all white uniform from helmet to cleats. Both teams have dominating histories as both have captured championships throughout the years. So this classic game, besides the pun in the names (Police vs Bandits), have powerhouse organizations and on paper looks like it will be similar to two great heavyweights pounding each other until the final bell.

The captains walk out to the fifty yard line for the coin toss that had special guest, Anquan Boldin of the Baltimore Ravens. The Bandits won the toss and deferred, so the Finest would receive the ball. NYPD 's first drive was very impressive. After a few running plays their QB broke loose after a scramble and threw a dart for a touchdown. It was an eye opener as NYPD moved the ball effortless against the Bandits. It was early and the Bandits didn't seem worried about the quick strike. As for the Finest, their execution by the offense on their run and pass selections produced the first score.

The Bandits get the ball and try to regroup after giving up a early score. Their offensive running game is stuffed by the Finest. The Bandits go back to throw - picked off by the Finest. NYPD steals one from the Bandits- how ironic! The Finest are in good field position and their explosive offense come up with a field goal and lead the Bandits 10-0.
The Bandits are down quick and early as the Finest are taking control of the game, but it's still early, but being down early is no excuse so kudos to the NYPD for coming out and pouncing on the Bandits. The turnover bug was hovering over the Bandits as they fumble on their next two possessions and the disciplined NYPD capitalize on the errant Bandits and go into halftime leading 23-0.
To summarize the first half it's all NYPD Finest. They are controlling the line of scrimmage on offense as well as defense and are moving the ball at will. The Bandits look slower on defense- their reaction to the NYPD's option is not happening at the attack lanes and the Finest QB's haven't been harassed during their precision throwing. The Bandits offense is inept at running and passing. The QB is not connecting with receivers. The defense is also not reacting fast enough to the Finest explosive running game and linebackers are not filling in the gaps or covering the middle on pass plays. The good news is the Bandits get the ball to start the second half. Let's check out what happens in the second half.

The Bandits start with another QB but it doesn't jump start the team right away. The Finest are dominating and continue to score. The Bandits do get a drive started and punch one in for 6 late in the 4th quarter. They go for 2 points and get it. The Bandits are pleased to finally get something going. After teams exchange possessions the Bandits get a big kickoff return and are at the Finest's 10 yard line and a few plays later score again but miss the 2 point conversion. With time evaporating the final score NYPD Finest 36 and NY Bandits 14.
To check out the action go to www.clarkshots.com to see this game and other games.

Eye of an Eagle

2010-01-30T19:46:00.000-05:00

Before I begin I would like you to envision being in the center of a clock. Yes a clock. Where 12 o'clock is straight in front and 6 o'clock is directly behind you. Got that! Ok lets begin. It's early Saturday morning, the sun just peaking over the horizon, we're heading west on Interstate 84 towards Pennsylvania. The temperature is a frigid 4 degrees and the wind is gently blowing but it has a cold force that feels like razor blades that cuts your face as it blows by. It's a cold morning, very cold. The morning is still hardly anyone on the road and the late January setting is bland and dull. No leaves on the gray trees, parts of ice pockets and salt remains scattered randomly on the highway. The mountains in the distance have a indigo color and the sky is mixed with blue and gray mostly gray and the sun can't really penetrate the clouds to grace you with her warm rays because she is still low. Our destination is about an hour and half drive to a small border town called Lackawaxen, PA. The trip is an easy route from I84, then through Port Jervis a small town onto Route 97 and than across the Roebling Bridge in the Upper Delaware Aqueduct. Seems complicated - starting in New York , heading to Pennsylvania, and now Upper Delaware and it's only an hour and half drive? You're seated in the passenger seat semi-awake, you look out on the scenic route and think how great it would be having a nice hot cup of coffee as the soft music keeps your mind occupied as you observe towns you never been to. As we quickly go through Port Jervis and head north on 97 with the river parallel at our 9 o'clock and the mountainous highway 3 o'clock that curves the mountain as we climb through Highlands, and Deer Park, up and around as we hug the road with large ice on the mountain facade. As we level off around Pond Eddy you notice at our 10 o'clock and yell with amazement "Look an eagle"! Yes it was majestic with it's beautiful flight. It seem so odd in the open river almost like a UFO. Our first sighting and then there was another. We were heading to The Eagle Institute (www.eagleinstitute.org) that's on the NY-PA border and we were close. We stopped at an eagle blind on the side of the road in Minisink Ford. Our destination was minutes away and the time was about 8:30am and the temp still in the single digits with that bitter cold wind. You spot a big eagle perched in a tree across the river. Just an awesome sight. With the dark gray trees and bland sky these bald eagles stuck out like beacons. Their bright white heads and tails and chocolate colored bodies- awe inspiring. The obvious was there size. We stopped at the blind to see if we could catch any flying by us as the one we were following for about 5 minutes before it made a sharp right and flew over our heads and out of site.

At The Eagle Institute we get our eagle etiquette and grab a map. What's eagle etiquette? Weren't you paying attention! anyway STAY in your car at all times, engine and music off. If there is a blind you may enter . That's it in a nutshell. I know we should have got you some coffee. Staying in the car was a great plan because of the frigid temperature.
I want to head to the Rio Reservoir ( Rio is pronounced RYE) and the Monguap Falls.(http://songstar.org/reserv01.htm) The Monguap Falls has a blind and that's our next stop. They are about 15-20 minutes south up and into the mountain. Back into the car and we drive slowly with the river now at our 3 o'clock and you're intensely looking over the river for any more bald eagles. Right passed the Mininsink blind you spot another, being that you are looking straight across the river this is now your 12 o'clock and you tell me who is looking at the road while driving to look at my 3 o'clock. I stop the car. 1st rule - Stay in car. so I have to look around you as we both point cameras and start shooting. We're having good luck- so far 4 bald eagles spotted. As we get to Monguap Falls, the parking area has cars and we get out to go to the blind. The sky turned blue for about a minute or two. While in the blind with about 6 others who have camera gear straight out of National Geographics, there are 3 more eagles perched on trees- north side. The distance is far looking through the view finders on the cameras. But one of the aides has binoculars for guests. I take a few pictures but the area is crowded and everyone is polite about it. Then a few fly off and a few more fly around. This is very exciting. There is no heat in the blinds and only small protection from the cold but not that Freddy Kruegar wind that's slicing through. We leave the area headed to Rio. I like that headed toward Rio like we're leaving the country to someplace warm. NOT!
We make a right turn onto Plank Road and see the river at our 3 o'clock. I drive slow and notice a car coming in the other direction dead stop in the road. How rude was my remark until I noticed he's pointed a camera out his window. You look out toward our 3 o'clock and there he is. Perched in a tree looking proud and again I use the word majestic. It's a beautiful site. You can see the different shades of brown on his feathers. You can also see the bright yellow beak and talons. He's not moving! Just perched observing us. I move the car to get a better picture and to our surprise there's one at our 2 o'clock and 1 o'clock. Are you kidding me! 3 eagles perched as to say take our photos, couldn't believe it. Bald eagles less than 100 yards in the wild in New York just chilling- not in a sense of being cold but you catch my drift. I drive slowly forward to try to maneuver the car to get a better picture. Here lies the problem- There are trees in the foreground which are in the way. Rule # 1 Stay in car- Rule # 2 Engine off or you may scare them away. After about a half hour of moving back and forth taking pictures these birds weren't scared and weren't moving. They held their ground which was good for me because taking pictures from the driver's side over and around a passenger is quite differcult. I move ahead more to try to get to an opening and as we do notice that Rio is just a few miles ahead. The plan was go there and if no sightings turn around and see if these 3 are still here. We go make the turn to come back in the open area and here comes one in flight at our 7 o'clock going to the floating ice. Now the bird is on my 8 o'clock . After about 15 minutes of him picking something to eat out of the ice he flies toward my 12. I try to follow with my camera shooting in bust mode and seated in the drivers seat. Did I say how hard this is trying to focus on this huge bird soaring while seated in car, twisting my body, turning and trying to keep it focus while trying to avoid the foreground trees. Challenging! but worth every twist.
We finally see about 3 flying around and hear their call as the perched on limbs.
It's time to go so since we did the turn around we just have to go back the same way we came. And the 3 that were there earlier are still there watching and holding steady. Wow! They were just gorgeous birds. We snap a few more and away we go back home.
Just like that we're coming down the mountain on 97 South headed toward Port Jervis. In about 45 minutes we'll be home. Great time, very cold but when we first saw our very first bald eagle in the wild and following him up the river for a few minutes was magical. No one on the road for us and no obstacles for him. What the day had in store for us was more of the same.
To see some of the bald eagles go to www.clarkshots.com

First Hike 01-01-10

2010-01-03T11:55:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I was on my way home from celebrating New Year's and it's early or late depending how you think 3am is.. but it's early Friday morning and on my way home I was listening to the weather report. It was going to be a wintery mix of snow flurries, windy, and more snow flurries. And the best day would be today 01-01-10, so I decided that I would go on a small hike the very first one of the year. There lies the problem? I'm tired I was at work all day on Thursday December, 31 and than went out and celebrated New Years, it's early in the morning and I have to rest and get back up and make this trek. My mind was debating with my body and it knew once I hit the bed the only trekking that would be done would be me rolling around on the mattress in deep, a mean deep sleep and my hiking would be just a thought. My body on the other hand was confident that my limbs would be ready and if I just went on a beginners type hike or really a long walk that I could handle it.
To my surprise I jumped out of bed a bit later than I wanted but the situation was commendable being the time I went to bed. I looked outside the snow flurries stopped and really was just a dusting in my driveway the roads were clear the gray sky didn't look promising. Where would I go? I pondered on that for more than usual but decided to go to Clarence Fahnestock State Park. Pelton Pond is virtually flat and is close by. I grabbed my gear and was happy the temperature was pleasant because the gloomy sky stated otherwise. From Saturday to Monday the temps would be in the teens with blustery winds and today was the best day of the weekend - so far a good choice. I just grabbed a camera, wide angle lens and tripod. I usually bring more lenses but I thought I'll go light and I wasn't going to bring the tripod but that would have been just plain dumb.
As I approached the parking area there was not a single car in site! The parking lot was cleared of snow and I would be the only person. I parked, got my gear and my first step into the shallow snow that covered the area was magical. The crunch noise the snow made and the stillness of my surroundings put a big smile on my face. There was no other footprints as I made my way to the trail. The gloomy gray sky was also tussling with the blue sky that wanted to be center stage today. For a brief moment the blue sky was dominated to the north and the sun was dodging in and out of the gray clouds in the south. As I looked over the cotton covered pond and the snow covered evergreens the thing I could feel was serenity, it's always so beautiful to catch mother nature showing off. I walked to my right around the snow covered picnic tables and grills filled with white bright snow. The sky did become blue and the sun rays came down to touch and warm my face as I stood there wondering how quickly the morning has changed from gloomy to beautiful. There were signs of deer tracks and bird tracks that danced on the trail ahead of me. I thought I'll go around to capture a picture of the pond, sky and trees but the calm still experience was a just smell the roses moment because it was so odd to have such a wonderful visual moment that came out of nowhere. I felt like I was being rewarded for the trip out and the warmth of the sun, the royal blue sky, and the clean white snow around me was perfect. I traveled south to get a good position of the sky, pond, and trees. The crunching of the snow was the only sound made while in the trail I had to watch not the touch any branches because the light snow that covered the leaves would fall slowly down covering me and the camera ever so slightly and being I had my camera strapped around my neck I didn't want to get it wet. I finally made it up, over and around the trail as I walked down to the pond itself to set up the tripod. Once I got to pond level I didn't have to worry about the branches in my picture or them dumping snowflakes on the camera as I got into position. I took many shots but not as many as I usually do because I was seeking out the light on the trails, the dark shades versus the white covering really made for interesting compositions, but the pond itself with this white coating was also fascinating in itself, especially since no one's footprints were on the pond. Usually there are many footprints of people walking onto the pond at different locations so getting a clean pond so to speak was a real treat. I didn't stay long because the blue sky and warm sun did succumb the persistent gray

sky that took control over the area. The only good news was the temperature didn't lower and the wind was never a factor. I didn't see any wildlife prancing through but the moment I had was still wondrous and magical as I walked on the trails around the pond and just stood absorbing that sunny blue sky moment that was also just passing through the gray gloomy overcast. What a great morning for a hike. The weather was perfect and again no snow or wind interfered with my brief hike and I also had the pleasure of seeing the sun and blue sky for a brief moment. For my first hike of the new year it was short but probably more rewarding than I could have imagined and I'm glad I fought my tiredness and gave it a go. The success of this hike may be hard to beat for the upcoming hikes this year. The bar was set and to think that this is the first of so many more to come - I can't wait.

A Tale of Two Teams

2009-12-21T21:20:00.000-05:00

After the snow storm that blanketed most of the northeast Saturday night I was headed into that dreaded path Sunday afternoon. The snow deposits throughout the different counties and towns kept my enthusiasm entertained because my worry was the roads and the roads were clear for my two hour drive. This day would be the conclusion of all my whereabouts for the past couple months as I would travel to witness weekend warriors clashing for superiority. clarkshots thoughts of the day is packed with many tales of teams trying to be in the elite status and becoming a champion or as its put "getting a chip" and www.clarkshots.com has featured action photos of the many football games played throughout the 2009 season.
Today at Vince Lombardi Stadium in Palisades Park, NJ was the TGI BNEFF BOWL III (www.bneff.com)The two conferences that make up the Big North East Football Federation were going to settle the score. The Keystone Division had the Tacony Eagles(www.taconyeagles.net) wearing their emerald green and the Empire Division had the Bergen Hawks (www.njhawks.com)wearing their royal red. The game was coin"Battle of the Birds"and how appropriate but also for the last game before the Holidays red and green would also be represented.
As the mounds of snow was piled on the perimeter of the field and in the stands, the field was in good playing condition. The day was windy and chilly and became colder as the game progressed.
The Eagles received the ball first to get this Bowl III started. Not much moving from the Eagles as the Hawks were buzzing and thwarting the Eagle attack. The Eagles eventfully punt and the Hawks have the ball. The Hawks make a costly turnover and the Eagles make them pay and lead 8-0. The Hawks with their wildcat offense don't waste much time and gain long yards on the Eagle defense and put a quick score and it's Eagles 8 Hawks 6. Both teams are battling like two great Roman-Greco wrestlers trying to get in position. The Eagles running game is being stuffed by the Hawks and the Hawks wildcat has signs of promise but the Eagles shut it down. The Hawks get in field goal range and drill it through and the score is Hawks 9 Eagles 8. The Eagles QB does a 5 step drop and heaves it to an open receiver who gallops in untouched and the score Eagles 14 Hawks 9. The half is closing and the Hawks have the ball. The Hawks have an impressive drive and get into field goal range again with seconds left. The kick is up and good and the halftime score is Eagles 14 Hawks 12. This first half was excellent as both teams had great offensive and defensive dominance.
The half begins with the Hawks having the ball and that momentum they had at the closing seconds of the second half must have carried over because they are chewing up yards and they score on a long play and regain the lead. The Hawks the second half of the game are just dominating. They are crushing the Eagles offense with great defense and shredding the Eagle defense with outstanding running. The Hawks are displaying all the aspects of a champion team and are dismantling their opposition. There is no contest as who is the better team, the Hawks are in complete control and are scoring easily. The Hawks blocked a punt which turned into a score. The next possession the Eagles botched the center to punter exchanged and the punter threw a pick six for another score. The Eagles are defeated physically and probably mentally because of the way they are playing. The final score is Hawks 40 and Eagles 22. The Bergen Hawks are the new BNEFF 2009 Champions and rightfully so. What started out as a heavyweight battle between to great champions in the first half ending with an onslaught of offense and a punishing defense that understood their goal and conquered it with pride and teamwork. What a conclusion to all the games I witness and a bold display today to capture the chip. To see the many games go to www.clarkshots.com

Empire Division Championship Game

2009-12-13T15:34:00.000-05:00

I'd arrived to the battlefield a little early to scout out a good position to set up my gear. To my surprise some of the gladiators were marching into the field which reminded me of penguins wobbling forward as everybody was adjusting to the cold wind blowing through. This type of weather is nothing unexpected in mid December in New York, where I came from there's snow covering the plains but down here it's just cold and sunny and the field is in pristine condition. I strolled over to the hosts sideline the perfect Punishers who are standing at an impressive 11-0 as players were gearing up I'm looking for a vantage point with the sun at my back. The best angle would be on the opposite side.
The Big North East Football Foundation is having it's Empire Division Championship game today in Long Island as the Undefeated Nassau Punisher's host the 10-1 Bergen Hawks. It's going to be a heated game because the winner will not only be the champions but also the team that will be sponsoring the Empire Division in the league and a chance to play in the bowl game next week.

The Punishers who are in the white knight gear are facing the blood red colored jersey Hawks. The Punishers get the ball first and find themselves in punt formation and give the ball to the Hawks. The Hawk sideline was riveting after their defense held the Punishers on the opening drive. The Hawks move sparingly as the bruising Punishers defense is their trademark. The Hawks are in field goal range and the kicker boots one down the middle of the posts. The Hawks strike first and a lead on the Punishers is a good thing, because of their stingy defense points are hard to come by. The Punishers can't seem to find a rhythm and hand the ball back to the Hawks, maybe the Hawks defense has swiped a page from the Punishers defense, because they are hard hitting and not giving an inch. Hawks with the ball are determined to move. Their offense is running left and right pushing the defensive backs closer to the line and just like that the Hawks do a play action pass and find a lone receiver in the corner of the end zone. 10-0 as the Hawks are punishing the Punishers. Both teams are hard hitting and bringing the heat. The Hawks throw an interception which ignites the Punishers. The Punsihers drive deep into the redzone. The ball is placed on the 1 yard line and after a few attempts the Hawks have stuff the onslaught on dives but on 4th the Punishers do punch one in and now the score sits a 10-7. Late second half the Hawks are driving but are running out of time. They drive into Punisher territory looking to add to their lead. The want to set up a field goal a penalty pushing them out, but with no time they're going to try a 54 yard attempt. The kick is up, on target but falls short of it's mark and the score remains 10- Hawks 7 Punishers.

The 3rd quarter starts with the Hawks receiving but that Punisher defense wasn't having any of it and stops them. Nothing except hard hitting is the only thing happening in the 3rd as it comes to a close. The last 15 minutes and the Punishers are driving. They make it into Hawk territory but lose yards and attempt a field goal to tie, it's up but short. Still plenty of time as the Hawks missed on two long throws. The Punishers are out of time outs as they happen to get the ball back from the Hawks after a short sideline pass went incomplete. The Punishers drive down the field. They throw a short pass that turns out to be a huge play for them and puts them in Hawk territory. Time is running out and the Punishers' offense is trying to get into field goal range. There's about 40 seconds in the game as the Punishers on their last down line up for a field goal. It'll be a long one and their season is riding on this attempt. The ball is snapped the kicker kicks- it's on its way but falls short and with no timeouts left the Hawks just need to put a knee down and be crowned champions.
To see the action photos of this game and others go to www.clarkshots.com

Office Outting

2009-12-11T14:29:00.000-05:00

My office is a small office less than 30 people. I have a client in the next building who asked the guys if they wanted to participate in touch football with other clients. Well 3 of us answered that call and we met at their adjoining building to be picked up and dropped back at the office. The game was being held in East Rutherford, NJ at Giants Stadium home of the NY Giants and NY Jets. It was a very chilly and windy night as we headed south west, Yes! a game under the lights at an NFL field. The teams were broken up into 4 groups 2 blue teams and 2 white teams. Of course the jerseys all represented the NY Giants and the majority of the numbers on the jerseys were 27 Jacobs, 72 Umenyiora and we all recieved an NY football skullcap. My team was a blue team and I sported number 72 it was going to be 6 on 6 touch football. I had the smallest number of players on my team for a team total of 8. May not seem significant but when teams had double the number it was a number that would doom us. ( Not going to mention the various ages of the teams- debatable)
We arrived at Giant Stadium courtesy of car service (did I mention that?) and was guided into the visitor's locker room. We had some time before the game so the hosting office had reserved the upper clubhouse for us to eat before and after the game. After a small bite my teamed raced to the field to stretch because of the cold night and we weren't the youngest of the bunch. It was great walking from the tunnel into a brightly lit field, but the wind was sporadically blowing hard. Now I know what the announcers always talk about the wind at field level. I've been a Giant fan forever and been to many Giant and Jet games in the bitter cold - this wasn't bitter cold but cold enough and the wind was crazy! As all the players assembled onto the field to stretch, run and go over strategy, Giant staff members (refs) gathered the whole group to do stretching and go over the rules and boundaries of the field.
My team went against one of the white teams that had about 12-15 players but we held our own and I had 3 interceptions but we had to juggle the 8 of us on offense and defense and me being the oldest on my team at 46 I was winded quick fast and hurry. I wasn't hurt or slow just out of gas, but we had limited substitutions so everyone played out of gas or close to it. We won our first game and now we are going into the championship.
The 8 of us was winded and tired. We had a good 1st game but I knew I couldn't go full steam ahead for the second. What would you know! the other team is full of ringers, guys who play flag football together on the weekends. They ran through us like nobody's business, but they should have especially with 12 guys on their team for plenty of substitutions and being much more in shape, but their attitude upset me. As I was explaining to one of their girlfriends on the side who saw me huffing and puffing and she stating age is just a number and my reply was if I was her boyfriends age right now he would be 8yrs old do you think me being in my 20's would have a problem running up and down the field on 8-10 year's old and do you think it would only be a number than? Or would you expect 20 years olds to beat 8-10 year olds. We're competative out here but lets keep it real, when a team has a flag football team imbedded within there's a problem, or for them a solution, if they wanted it to be fair they should have placed themselves between the 3 teams.
Other than that gripe from me, we all had a wonderful time and I don't regret taking my out of shape 46 year old body out for a football game, Especially under the lights at Giant Stadium. If they wanted me to play tomorrow night I'll be there. There were guys playing at my age and maybe 1 or 2 older but the age thing isn't what doomed us we needed a few more bodies to rotate in and out and we just didn't have it.
The dinner was great and the car service back to the office was pleasant because we needed to wind down and relax. It's about 10pm now and I still have to drive myself home but my adrenaline was still pumping and got me home safely.

Bergen Hawks Dominate Hudson Valley Cowboys

2009-12-06T22:43:00.000-05:00

In a clear bright but chilly afternoon we are gather today to witness a team that will emerge as a force to
be reckon with. The host Bergen Hawks (www.njhawks.com) in their intimidating black and red clad are looking across the sidelines at the Hudson Valley Cowboys (www.hudsonvalleycowboys.com)draped in their royal blue. The Hawks have crushed the Cowboys undefeated streak two months ago at this same battleground. The Big North East Football Foundation (www.bneff.com) is in their Round 2 of the Empire Division playoff game for the BNEFF Bowl III title as the stage is set in New Jersey between two outstanding organizations. Are the blood red jerseys of the hawks a reminder to the Cowboys that they should not only fear but concede to defeat or will the boys in blue boldly bring a beating to the birds, the players are in place as their personalities are about to collide.

The Cowboys receive the kick and have trouble exchanging the ball between the center and QB on their first 2 plays. On third down the Cowboys go back to pass and its intercepted by the high intensity Hawk defense. Hawks have the ball and in a shotgun formation the QB darts up the middle of the field and cuts through the Cowboy defense and scores untouched and the Hawks start out on fire and lead 7-0. The next possession the Cowboys don't do anything as the Hawk defense is all over the Cowboys making them miserable. A few more Hawks plays and they are in the endzone leading 14-0 and dominating on both sides of the ball. The Cowboys have no answer to the intensity of the Hawks. As the half is winding down the Hawks try a field goal to extend their lead but miss it, but it gives some life to the lifeless Cowboys the boys in blue drive down the field and their surge is halted. On third down the QB finds a wide open reciever in the endzone but the pass is incomplete. The Cowboys try a field goal and it's no good. Huge break for Hawks and they continue to move the ball at will and drive down the field with time ticking away. The Hawks line up for a field goal and miss it barely but a Cowboy penalty gives them another try and with the extra yardage the kick is good and at the half the Hawks are punishing the Cowboys 17-0.
The second half starts out with an injured Cowboy on the kick off who is carted off the field and that redirects the Cowboys emotions. The Hawks have the ball and in shotgun and get sacked and it looks like the Cowboys have awakened. But the Cowboy spark would die out as the Hawks regroup and continue to play relentless and go down the field to add to their domination and now lead 24-0. The Cowboys recover a fumble and return it for a touchdown, the two point conversion is good. The Hawks are clearly in control and don't waver during the game and destroy the Cowboys confidence and move into the Empire Division Championship game next week wining 24-8.
To see action photos of this game and others during the 2009 season go to www.clarkshots.com

They Meet Again But More Is At Stake

2009-11-30T19:46:00.000-05:00

The Big North East Football Foundation, ( www. BNEFF.com) is having it's Empire Conference Wildcard Playoffs this weekend and two teams that are squaring off met earlier this year and here's a quick summary of that meeting. The Hudson Valley Cowboys (www.hudsonvalleycowboys.com ) and the New York Spartans ( www.nyspartans.org) played at Evander Childs, HS, Bronx, NY and lit up the scoreboard. Both offenses had deep strikes and seem to score every time they had the ball. It seemed the last team with the ball would win. As both teams had remarkable big drives the game was very exciting because of the potential that a score can come at any time. The Cowboys did win 32-25 and now they meet again but so much more is at stake. The playoff structure is win move on - lose season over. It doesn't matter what your record is or the last time you matched up with the opponent your facing, there's only one goal and that is to be champions. To reach that goal you must play with greater fortitude and pride to overcome your adversary who is prepared to also reach their goal.
Here we are at Stitzel Field, Poughkeepsie, NY. The weather is seasonal high and sunny, and determination on the sidelines. The Cowboys receive and during their first possession throw a skinny post and the receiver was wide open and scampered into the end zone untouched and just like that the Cowboys light up the scoreboard early and easily.The Spartans regroup and their first possession they don't do much and the ball is back in the hands of the Cowboys. The Cowboys don't waste too much time before they find the end zone again. The next possession of the Spartans they throw a deep fly and connect and now the score stands Cowboys 13 Spartans 6. Now its resembling their first match that was high scoring.
The second quarter starts and the first play the Cowboys QB is looking to pass and is flushed out of the pocket he checks down and finds a runningback in the flats and connects with him and he who turns up field in full stride runs for another score. The Cowboys are dominating the Spartans. The Spartans have a great pass rush but the elusive Cowboy QB has made great plays down field, he even ran straight up the middle and scored on a long run. Cowboys are dismantling the Spartan defense and are scoring at will. There were multiple times that the Cowboys scored and a penalty against them negated the score and the very next play the Cowboys scored. At the half it was Cowboys 26 Spartans 6.
The third quarter started with the Spartans getting the ball and they turnover the ball in which the Cowboys capitalized and score. The game is really being controlled by the Cowboys their offense is explosive and is exploiting the battered Spartan defense. The Spartans offense is also sputtering and not showing any signs of threatening. The Cowboys on the other hand are displaying why they are an offensive juggernaut. The game is out of control as the sunset finally turns into darkness and the darkness dooms the Spartans. The final score is Cowboys 39 Spartans 6.

To view this game and other games during the 2009 season visit www.clarkshots.com

Alternate Ending....

2009-11-22T08:07:00.008-05:00

The 2009 Metro Bowl has two top teams squaring off to claims its bowl title. The NY Bandits (www.nybandits.org) from the Eastern Football Alliance ( www.efafootball.info) and the NJ Wolves (www.njwolves.com) from the Garden State Football League. The game is being played at Seidler Field home of the NJ Wolves. The Wolves are donned in their dominating black gear while the Bandits are in their royal blue. By the records of the teams this should be a good game and a classic one for the Metro Bowl.

The Wolves receive the opening kick and start on offense. They move the ball down field with a combination of power running and quick passes. The Wolves seem to have the Bandits on their heels as the cross the 50 yard line on good team execution. The Wolves drop back and pass for the end zone- the Wolves receiver and Bandit defenders jump and the Wolves come down with a catch in the end zone. A great pass down the middle of the field and the Wolves strike first. The Wolves sideline is pumped and their banter can be heard loud and clear. The Bandits question the call stating the player dropped the ball on contacted with the defender and the ground. The Wolves line up for a 2 point conversion and get in. The Wolves are up 8-0 early in the first quarter with a very impressive drive.

The Bandits after receiving the kick have the ball on their side of the field. Their first play doesn’t do much and the Bandits seem a little out of step. Well maybe not because they just connect on a deep pass and the Bandit receiver burns passed the Wolves defender and just like that the Bandits answer with a quick strike and kick the extra point. That’s why both teams are here! You don’t get invited to a bowl game unless you have talent and both teams so far unleashed some formidable skills. Now standing at Wolves 8 Bandits 7 with plenty of time this could turn out to be very high scoring affair.

Both teams show miscues that stop drives. The Bandits offense doesn’t seem to be in sync and their defense is playing the majority of the game. The Bandits defense recovers a ball that went over the Wolves QB while he was in the shotgun and the offense couldn’t capitalize, and another when an upfront man botched a punt that the Bandits also recovered that ended with nothing to show. The Wolves like a stated earlier were on the move before the miscue in shotgun formation but their offense is executing well and moving the ball. Their defense has been a nightmare for the Bandits especially their QB he has been sacked and rushed just about every time he throws. The Wolves do settle down and start moving the ball with authority again. A couple of off tackle runs by the Wolves moves the secondary up of the Bandits to help in support, with that the Wolves throw a medium pass to a wide open man and he eludes a couple of Bandit defenders and easily trots in to score. The Bandits call a time out before the extra point and the coach is letting the team know his feelings at his team’s effort. The Wolves are doing more than flexing their muscles as they push and halt the Bandits every move and the extra point is no good as the Wolves extend their lead to 14-7 and it stays that way to the half.

A quick summary of the first half really shows that the Wolves came to play. Their defense was dominating especially in passing downs. The Wolves offense had good execution and moved the ball well. The Bandits on the other hand really seem out of step. The offense had some bright spots and did connect on some passes but the QB seemed under duress, running game not doing well and the Bandit defense has been on the field too long. All the momentum goes to the home team and that’s why they are leading.

The second half starts with the Bandits getting the ball. The Bandits look like a different team as they move the ball down the field. Their passing game has come alive and produced a couple of first downs. The Bandits in the shotgun has their QB looking to his left, he checks down and throws to his right into the flats to the running back and he’s steam rolling toward the end zone a Wolves defender collides with him inches away from the end zone- inches! The Bandits run off tackle to the left and pound it in. The Bandits stun the Wolves and now are tied 14-14 it’s getting interesting now. The Wolves don’t have an answer to the Bandit’s surge. The game is going back and forth until the Bandits catch some more life and start running the ball with explosive powerful runs. The quarter ends with the Bandits poised to strike. The last quarter begins and the Bandits hit their wide receiver and he gets stopped at the 1 yard line. The next play the Bandits QB sneak it in and the power has shifted. The extra point is blocked by the Wolves, but there’s a defense offside penalty. They line up again and the ball gets away from the holder, he picks it up and starts to scramble, the Wolves are in pursuit he throws it to an open receiver and the Bandits connect on the 2 point conversion. Sorry, there’s another penalty this one on the Bandits-illegal man down field. Try it again they say third time is a charm. The kick is up and good, and there’s another flag on the defense -call stands. The Bandits are now leading 21-14 and have stolen away all the momentum from the home team. The Wolves can’t sustain a drive and give it back over to the Bandits. The Bandits are on fire, their running game has picked up dramatically as the running back is hitting the holes and picking up yardage. The home crowd is yelling and trying to get the Wolves back to their first half domination as the team is strategizing on their next set of plays. Nothing really seems to be happening with the Wolves and the Bandits have the ball late in the 4^th quarter and the running attack is working- Under 3 minutes and the Bandits are on the move (INSERT YOUR ALTERNATE ENDING)

There’s a fight! Seems like a few perpetrators infiltrated the field and are fighting with a lone Wolves player in back of the endzone. The Bandit players go to their sideline and some more Wolves players come to the aid of their comrade and bedlum has taken over the backend of the end zone. Sirens sounds and police cars race down the perimeter of the field. The perpetrators scramble and jump over fences running from the police as fans point the police in the direction of the fleeing thugs. The game is ended as the referees and Wolves coaching staff try to restore order, but the Wolves players don’t want the game to end and after a few conferences the game commences with the Bandits in the redzone with 2:30 left in the game. The Bandits who were threatening to do something before the incident go more conservatively and try to run out the clock. On fourth down the Bandits run it instead of trying a field goal- I thought they may be in range but maybe the situation caused a different plan. The Wolves get the ball back with 1:37 that was screamed from the refs. The Wolves in shotgun have to pass the ball out of their end with no time outs and time running out. On their last attempt the ball gets picked off – a timely interception by the Boys in Blue and with a minute and change they can let the clock run out. Oh no players are now fighting! - the refs and coaches stop the game again but this time it’s a few players in a skirmish. Teams are basically at mid field with the game officially stopped and are shaking hands when all of a sudden the agitators start up as peacemakers try to stop the rage from getting any bigger. A very ugly ending to such a dramatic game that had all the elements of hard played game. Too bad the only memory the fan has is the fighting by the thugs and the fighting by the players that ended the game and the continued during the handshake – very unsportsman like conduct from two teams that deserve to be in a bowl game and to have it end so poorly.
to see the game photos go to www.clarkshots.com

EFA Championship Game

2009-11-16T17:33:00.008-05:00

Great day for a championship game, and today we have the defending EFA Champion NY Bandits (www.nybandits.org) squaring off to their nemesis the NY Rebels for the Eastern Football Alliance 2009 Championship Game. (www.efafootball.info) Both teams have battled in this position in the past and always seems to be in each other’s crosshairs with the Bandits a better shooter and titles to prove it.

The Bandits win the opening toss and elect to kick. The first play from scrimmage the Rebels go deep and complete a long pass that has them jubilant. Wow! What a way to start and steal the momentum early on the Bandits, but the yellow flag flies and negates the great field position. The Bandits hold and eventually get the ball. The Bandits pound the ball and use a few passes to keep the wildly Rebels off balance. The Bandits like a prize fighter are jabbing the Bandits then toss a deep pass and strike first. Just like that the defending champs score first and early. The extra point is no good and 6-0 start is looking good for the Bandits. The Rebels did not seem too phased and went back to work but they could not sustain anything. The Bandits get the ball and they steal one from the Rebels playbook and go deep and connect for touchdown. The extra point is no good and the Bandits lead 12-0.

The Rebels were slashing and slicing the Bandit defense with powerful runs that cracked the Bandit defense and they got into field goal range and attempted one which was blocked by the pesky Bandits. Both teams are willing but the defenses are holding. The Bandits punt and the Rebels return the punt for a touchdown. The Rebels are now on the board and show signs of life after the great return and special team execution. Wait! There’s one of those nasty yellow garments which erases the points and smiles off the Rebels.

Late second quarter - the Bandits have the ball in their territory, they try a reverse and the ball is fumbled as it darts backward and the Rebels pounce on it with good field position. A few plays later the Rebels find a lane and run into the endzone. Finally the Rebels are on the board and make the extra point as the half comes to a close with a score Bandits 12 Rebels 7.

The second half was just like the first as both teams sparring like two heavyweights exchanging blows. Late third quarter and the Rebels are on the move. They march down field with a couple of penalties to assist them are now on the Bandit 13 yard line as time runs out to start the fourth. The fourth quarter starts with the Rebels poised to strike. The Bandits defense stuffs and stops the surge of the Rebels and now have the ball deep in their end. The Rebels defense also stand ground and the Bandits line up to punt. The punt is blocked! The ball is recovered by the Rebels in the endzone for a touchdown. The Rebels go for two but were stopped. The Rebels are ALIVE and ahead 13-12 early in the fourth. What will the defending champs do to regain the lead? The Bandits have their backs up against the wall and the relentless Rebels know that and keep attacking. The Bandits can barely move and on 4^th and long throw a deep out to keep the drive alive. They’re in Rebel territory but the Rebels squash any momentum and have the ball with time running out and running out fast. You figure 3 plays and a punt and its history, but with 4^th and short the Rebels choose the run for the first and don’t make it. Bandits have the ball with basically no time but if they get maybe 10 yards and attempt a field goal this could be real interesting. It would have to be a long field goal but stranger things have happened. Big sack by the Rebels as time expires . The new Eastern Football Alliance Champion NY Rebels hold on to claim that elusive titled. Congratulations to the NY Rebels, their organization, and fans. A great win and maybe a start to a dynasty. Check out all the action of the season at www.clarkshots.com

Season Coming To A Close

2009-11-12T17:29:00.005-05:00

The football season is closing fast. It’s hard to believe that the gridiron gladiators are almost done battling for supremacy. The match ups I’ve attended had some very outstanding plays and excitement. There were some close games with joyous wins, tear jerking loses and some ridiculous blow outs. Seeing outstanding offenses move the ball and dismantle defenses like a powerful tsunami or dominating defenses stopping teams like a squad of M1 Abrams tanks pounding inept infantry. Every game had moments of greatness and captured by my great knowledge of the game.

The local high school I was following, Roy C. Ketcham, ended up with a 6-3 record and winning the Don Dematteo Bowl. Congratulations to them, the coaches, the fans, and I cannot forget the Ketcham Krazies. It’s very interesting because the Don Dematteo Bowl is named after an excellent coach from Gorton High School and I had the privilege to be on Gorton my senior year and knew of such a remarkable man. R.C. Ketcham played Gorton this season and it was no contest as the Indians crushed the Wolves and started to build momentum for their bid to the bowl. Coach passed away when I was in the Marine Corps and the semi-pro Westchester Steelers’ (www.eteamz.com/mtveronsteelers) home field is at Gorton HS, which the football field is named after their beloved coach.

The Eastern Football Alliance (www.efafootball.info) semi-pro football league has its championship game this weekend in Brooklyn and the defending champion NY Bandits (www.nybandits.org) will be playing another great organization in the Brooklyn Rebels. These two organizations have outstanding history and this upcoming game is more than about the winner. It’s about their organization and both powerhouses are out to defend that claim, there’s a lot of pride and a lot at stake in this game. I’m sure it’s going to be one for the ages and I’ll be very pleased to be there with my camera photographing history.

The Big North East Football Federation (www.bneff.com) is getting ready to start their playoff games. In a few weeks they will be in full combat trying to reach the pinnacle of becoming champions. Another great organization I was following, Hudson Valley Cowboys (www.hud sonvalleycowboys.com) with a record of 8-1 are playing in a pivotal game this weekend also against the first place Nassau Punishers (www.eteamz.com/NassauPunishers) at 8-0. This game will probably live up to the hype because the message boards are buzzing about team seeds. With everyone’s opinion of who should be where and why and with both teams with outstanding records all eyes will be focused on the news from upstate New York at the outcome of the game. This game will determine the division champ and that has great implications before the playoffs start. Who doesn’t want a first round bye and than a home game- yea! This is going to be good one. The great games continue.

To see the exciting season go to www.clarkshots.com

Playoff Picture- Deja Vu

2009-10-28T18:27:00.003-04:00

The playoff picture seems déjà vu to some teams and is something brand new to others. Some of those teams familiar with this would like to be the champions, and those who were last year’s champion want to repeat. It’s not by accident that some teams continue to be in the elite status as always being in a playoff. Winning a bowl game and becoming a champion is hard work and to overcome those odds speaks volumes for your program and is the ultimate reward for the football warriors. “Winning the Chip” is the common phrase, which translate to the wearing the championship ring. As high school football seasons starts going into its playoff system so is one of the minor league football leagues I follow. The scenario for the high school gets tough as schools with equal or unequal talents battle to become section champs and hopefully state champs. The schools’ history and programs are put to their final quests as coaches send their players onto the gridiron to outmatch their opponent. It’s more than pride that’s at stake and winning each game starts to build a dynasty. The usual suspects have a good tradition in football programs from the Pop Warner level straight into high school levels and the coaches that coach those kids had a passion for not only winning but educating the youngster on the basics and importance of team play. I think back to all the coaches that taught me how to play and I’m very pleased because I’ve learned valuable lessons and a very outstanding understanding of the game.

The first round has been completed and some of the schools that won the first game barely won. But my motto has always been a win is a win. Every losing team wants it back, to correct their mistakes and take advantages of missed opportunities. The winning teams have that luxury of making those corrections and preparing for the next round. There can only be one champion and winning the first round gives a team another attempt at that goal.

Let me take you back a year in the semi-pro league. The year 2008 a home playoff game for the Westchester Steelers and their opponent were the NYC Falcons. The air was thick in pride as both teams sent out thunderous banter about themselves and what they were going to do. The game was more a battle as the teams knew that a loss was not tolerable and couldn’t be. There was a huge goal line stand by the Steelers who actually stopped the Falcons on the 1 yard line numerous times. Both teams were pounding each other but at the end it was the Steelers who clipped the Falcons wings and won 6-0. The Steelers moved on the face the Brooklyn Rebels in Brooklyn and just as the battle a week ago was fierce this one was also. The Rebels pounded the Steelers and sent them home. The Rebels met the NY Bandits and the Bandits brushed by and became Champions. There can only be one champion and what an outstanding accomplishment it is to be the one. You know, the one everyone wants to beat and become.

Back to the present and the first round of the playoffs we find the Westchester Steelers vs. NYC Falcons. The weather was torrential down pour most of the game, which made passing and running an adventure. The Steelers grounded the Falcons and won 6-0. This week the Steelers have survived, but must meet a familiar foe- the Brooklyn Rebels – Déjà vu! Will history repeat itself? So far the first round has similarities to it as last year, especially to the Falcons, Steelers, and Rebels. Where are the champions Bandits? For them it’s also Déjà vu, they meet a team that’s wants revenge- the Brooklyn Seminoles. The Seminoles lost last year to the Bandits. The playoff picture seems familiar to these elite teams and as they prepare for their upcoming battles. The NY Bandits are the one, the team the other three want to beat and become.

Check out all the action photos of the season and playoffs at www.clarkshots.com

Time To Rebuild

2009-10-24T09:24:00.008-04:00

In our highly competitive techno-gadget society it's time for me to rebuild my computer. For most people this is a no brainer, with a little research, you the consumer would buy the best for your buck. You may want a laptop over a desktop because of it's portability but still a no brainer. Phones are simple to pick out and every second there seems to be a new James Bond type that has a special Matrix app of course the contracts lock you in but, you're not really committed to brand, but computers- well they seem to be more personal choice.

Back in the day PC (Personal Computer) were being built and the juggernaut Microsoft got it's explorer on more computers than Netscape. Netscape fought numerous court battles but Microsoft also had an operating system combined with its explorer and still prevailed. Microsoft catering toward businesses and that just dominated any competitor. Apple wasn't doing too bad, but its operating system was catered toward the artist so to speak and had a very small share in the computer industry. Here's when I come in. My oldest brother was an electronic guy. He started fixing tv's around the neighborhood.Tv's back in the day had picture tubes, other tubes and dials, no remotes! So a tube will blow or the interior teeth of the dial would wear down and need fixing. Of course I was his apprentice and we would fix a couple of tv's a week. Eventually, computers started to be made and everyone was still weary about this tv like device with a typewriter keyboard,this mouse thingy attached, and these square black record looking things called floppy disks. And with every new operating system Microsoft was promoting it generated a global buzz and people would wait in line for hours to get their hands on the new Windows OS. And with each new change the technology changed. Plug n Play was new you had to change jumpers in other peripherals for them to work, floppy drives were getting smaller, tape drives were being introduced and finally standards came out like the USB cable. You had to get USB ports, floppy drives and tape drives are obsolete and CD-ROM became the norm.

We started a company and began building computers. The only type of computer to build back then was a PC. You had to get the motherboard, memory, video card, power supply, disk drive and case to build a computer. The other stuff was already built you just had to attach or configure it, like the keyboard, monitor and mouse. Our company dissolved and never reached the heights we wanted. Apple has changed in the years and it's products are awesome, their clever commercials about the PC guy are funny. That's me the PC guy!

Throughout all these years I've been building my computers. So besides a software guy I'm a hardware guy and the reason why I still use Microsoft. Now Microsoft 7 is coming out and time for me to rebuild my computer which I call Frankenstein. Frankenstein has been around more than Freddy, Jason, and Michael Myers and still is running smooth. For my Apple guys who keep telling me what am I doing still using a PC- I say to them it's a personal choice.
I look forward to getting a new Asus motherboard, an Intel processor, Kingston memory and add 2 more Nvidia graphic cards. I don't think I'll change my Silverstone case, but if I do it may be an Lian Li. I may need a new power supply and I'll upgrade the internal drives. Frankenstein had many changes in its years. At one time I had a water cooled system by Zalman, I had the interior glow with red and blue lights, now it's green glow can be seen through the side window while blue LCD blink in the front. But it's under the hood that speaks super geek and super fast. So as I chuckle with the Apple commercials and my colleges who swear by the Mac, I know that they can't touch the performance my supercharged Frankenstein can put out. There's only a few guys who can and those guys know about MOBO's, overclocking, and Raid 0. Maybe Frankenstein needs a new name to keep up the techno-society. Something like X-MEN or Transformer, Transformer would be even better for all the times it changed- Nah! Frankenstein - it's a personal choice (PC)

Ownership Has Rewards

2009-10-06T18:59:00.013-04:00

My daughter is at "the driving age" and wants to get her driver's license soon. Where does the time go? We were looking at photos of her at Playland Amusement park when she was 4 years old and there are photos of us at the zoo also in the photo album. To think that those pictures are 13 years old. The pictures themselves are now at teenage years! We have many photos of her years growing up and who doesn't have family photos. Most of the pictures are simply priceless. It's a great loving feeling to reminisce over the pictures and try to recall the day or atmosphere but no matter what, they reminded us of a time in our lives that we treasured the most and these pictures are simply priceless. She was a little embarrassed to see some of the baby photos, but very happy that she has a record of her life where she can proudly share with her children one day.

Now that I take photographs of interesting places, events, and sports and I've established, www.clarkshots.com, a website so you the player, family, friends, and fans can enjoy. But the website is more than just a site to view historic sites, parades, and champion battles, it's a place for you to have access to your story.
Let's discuss the sports galleries that are plentiful on the website. Today we live in a right now technology society. Many of you want your picture(s) emailed so you can place them on your social site or cell phone which will be replaced with the next photo of you doing whatever. That part of your life will be deleted and replaced by the next event and clarkshots.com in not about deleting. The photos are taken with care, emotion and are exciting. Clarkshots.com is a place where you can purchase your triumphs and display your hard dedication of what you love to do. Your photos will last for years and years and would be something you and your family will be proud of. www.clarkshots.com is the only website that will accurately display the way you play the game. Another benefit for having a clarkshots photo is the quality and beauty of it that will be viewed by members of your family and friends for generations to come. Think about that! How many photos of you are downloaded or uploaded on your social site that's over a year old? Not counting the ones a friend found you in during a class picture from grade school. Where are your Pop Warner, high school, college photos of you playing the game? There comes a point in your career when you become a spectator or coach and besides telling the stories of the battles you and your teammates were in you have a record of it. Where are the photos when you retire from the game? I can throw numerous questions at you but ownership has it privileges and rewards.

Ask the many who own a clarkshots photo and weigh the opinions fairly. You know 5 years from now there's going to be a 8x10 clarkshots photo of you from one of the games and you will be thrilled owning you doing your thing. It's a great loving feeling to reminisce over the pictures trying to recall the day but no matter what, they reminded you of a time in your life that you treasured the most and those pictures are simply priceless. Reward yourself with a gift- a time when you or someone you know will be greatly appreciated that you have ownership of them in action.

check out the action shots at www.clarkshots.com and purchase a photo.

Sideline Sound Check

2009-09-29T18:34:00.003-04:00

As you know by reading my blog or visiting clarkshots.com that I’m an avid football fan. I enjoy taking those eye catching photos that teams, players and fans admire. That’s what clarkshots.com is all about-engaging the viewer. Last week I was bragging about the many football games I attending and what a great time I had. I was doing my post production work getting all those photos from flash cards into the computer and then to their respected websites and social sites when I was asked:

“You have to do an awful lot of work why do you do it? “

“You take some great photos; do you think teams really appreciate your effort?”

“You should do a blog on all the work that’s involved.”

Granted I take hundreds of photos that need to be processed. Many teams to sort through and trust me the topic about post production can drag on and on. During my fantasy football week I was going through the Army game, a high school game and a minor league football game talking about my experiences and the joy I have at the games. The discussion about the entire day of a football game and what I do before, at and after were being talked about when all of a sudden I busted out laughing! Being on the sidelines has its own drama.

Sideline chatter is something I usually tune out because I’m anticipating where I’m going to be for the next play. Being on the best side of a play takes a good understanding about the game and the situation a team is in and if the team is more of a run or pass team. But there are times when I capture bits and pieces of chatter that can be inspirational, motivational, questionable, desperation, profanity filled and hilarious. The different levels of the game are where the emotions and the chatter take on a life of its own. Not stating the intensity is less at the Pop Warner level then the minor league level –no! By any means, just listen to some of the parents. It’s just that more advance teams the learning curve is different causing the words, statements and emotions to be more explicit. Pop Warner and high school games I’m usually far away from the teams and coaches. I don’t get too close to the team because I don’t want to interfere or be in their way. I’m usually situated on only on one side and besides the cheerleaders rooting for the team, the team usually roots for either their offense or defense in typical cheers and pride banter. If I had to rate the little I hear it would be G rated. Being a good sportsman is a key goal to the Pop Warner and high school programs so trash talking is not tolerated at all.

But the minor league football games are a different story. I have to say the rating at one of these games is an R. I roam both sidelines jockeying between players. I always check with the referees to ensure I’m not in their way. I respect the teams and try not to be a problem but I mingle in to get a photo op and the players don’t seem to mind my presence. I take photos for both teams so it helps me stay neutral and non bias. Trash talking is being catapulted from both sides. I was a talker myself. I do believe you can cause someone to lose their focus by talking or challenging them via a proud tone. I never out talked my abilities and never made disrespectful comments, but that was me. Talk is cheap so they say, and you have to back it up. So why do so many trash talk? It’s a motivator for a team and intimidating to the other team that’s my simple assessment. It helps teams regroup and focus while trying to dismantle the concentration of your opponent. Besides the game chatter there lies the individual debates between opponents and some comments are very funny. I remember kneeling down peering through the camera and hearing a 6 foot something lineman barking at a smaller opponent like a raging pitbull and when that player on the field responded a group of other players joined in jab jawing and when the defender missed the tackle. You know what comes next—loud boisterous jeers that attack the misfortunate player like piranhas on a wounded prey. I have to admit it was a funny situation. The anger and disrespectful chatter is usually stopped by refs but the reason it starts is because a player felt he had something done to him illegally. The coach’s rant is a more personal banter because a coach wants an explanation from a referee or berating a player. Then there’s the wow cheer. This is when out of nowhere someone gets hit (blocked or tackled) that rocked them. You can tell because the sideline erupts, high fiving the giver and the team’s energy jumps up a notch. And of course the controversial call from a referee can cause a team to go into a bedlam attitude. Nothing can cause disgruntle players more than a bad call or a no call which can resonate on the sideline for awhile. The referees do a good job of containing the trash talking, but I find that sidelines transforms continuously by how the team communicates with each other or the other team. Even when a team is down their spirit and pride will still give them something to say. A small word of advice if you go to a minor league game and happen to be close to the sidelines - @!#$% can be general conversation around the teams, listen with caution!

For the best action football photos visit www.clarkshots.com

Football Fantasy

2009-09-19T19:29:00.013-04:00

Last week I stated that “Saturdays in the fall are made for high school football.” In a way I didn’t tell the whole truth. The statement I should have said was “The weekends in the fall are made for football”. What I’m getting at is obviously one of the best American game’s invented - football. As a player and a very avid football fan I had to pleasure this week to go to a high school football game on Thursday, noon on Saturday to the oldest United States academy- West Point, also late college games during Saturday and on Sunday finish my football with the minor league teams from the Big North East Football Federation ( www.bneff.com) in Poughkeepsie at 3pm and the NFL’s Sunday night football at 8pm. This is what I consider my fantasy football, I will go and say it’s the ultimate fantasy football. Let’s not forget about the NFL’s Monday night games. From Thursday to Monday I would go to live games and watch games, my football experience is intense and exciting to say the least. I want to talk about one game that especially had more about it than just the game of football itself. Being a former Marine and proud American. I’ve went to the Army versus Ball State game. I’ve been at West Point numerous times and now to see the Black Knights play a home football game I was very excited. If you never been to an Army game there’s a lot of things going on besides the football game. There’s the cadet parade on the parade field. Today they are honoring the class of 1979 and with the Golden Knights parachute team landing onto the parade field to conclude the ceremony and the silent drill team to start the tradition was special. From there you can visit many of the historic places, famous statues and beautiful views overlooking the Hudson River.

Army versus Ball State at West Point ( www.goarmysports.com or www.usma.edu). The Black Knights who are 1-1 will try to beat a Ball State team that hasn’t won a game. Army will then retire number 61, Joe Steffy , who’s one of only 2 players from Army to ever win the Outland Trophy. The Outland Trophy is awarded to the best college interior lineman by the Football Writers Association of America. Army was recognizing the Boy Scouts of America and mayors of neighboring counties and cities.

The cadets marching on the parade field before the game was a proud moment for all Americans. The Army’s pre-game tradition with the cadets and the Army’s motto: Duty, Honor, Country has a real feeling of pride as these men and women will be our future military leaders and will fight to protect America’s freedom and aid countries in their quest for democracy. These same cadets also marched on the playing field before the game with the Golden Knights displaying accurate aerial precision and landing on the football ball with the last delivering the game ball. Michie (my-key) Stadium wasn’t sold out but there were well over 25,000 in attendance. The Black Knights kicked off and stopped the Cardinals on their first drive. Army’s first drive was impressive! The Black Knights run a triple option and marched down the field and scored easily. The cannon blasted and the cadets and fans erupted in the loudest cheers. The game was fast moving as the Cardinals tied the score. Army was fumbling the ball on many of the wide pitch option and one was recovered by the Cardinals and that helped them keep pace with the Black Knights. The halftime score was tied at 17. It seemed every time Army scored and the loud cannon echoing throughout Michie Stadium Ball State countered. Ball State on their 8 yard line, in shotgun formation called a pass and as the quarterback rolled to his right in his own endzone with the Black Knights pressuring he throws an interception with turns into the football term-pick six-. A very exciting interception and Army’s third of the day pays off. Army up by 7 in the last quarter hold on and win 24 to 17 to go 2-1 and Ball State drops 0-3. Stated earlier there is so much happening outside the stadium. Strolling down Black Knight Alley, tailgating, just being at West Point on a beautiful day was awesome. Being at many football games this year with many ahead of me have no great emotion then being at West Point cheering for our military heroes.
Just to think that I'm halfway through my ultimate fantasy football. I still have to go to a live game on Sunday, watch the Sunday night's game and the games on Monday. How I like fall on the weekends!

High School Football Opener

2009-09-13T08:41:00.016-04:00

Saturdays in the fall are made for high school football. I ventured over to my local high school, R.C. Ketcham to catch the excitement of high school football. It was opening day for most of the high schools in the region. I used to love back in my high school days gearing up to play. There was no greater feeling than putting on the pads and representing your school and community. I had the pleasure to play for two different high school programs under great coaches. Sleepy Hollow home of the Headless Horseman, coach Bruce Thomas and dominating with the pack of Wolves from Gorton with coach Don DeMatteo. Back to the present, The Indians of RCK are hosting a good football team from Carmel. The Indians are in their dark red jerseys with dark blue helmet and pants. The Rams of Carmel had high expectations and were picked as one of the top schools in the Journal News.
The Rams received the ball on the opening kickoff and on their first play from scrimmage threw a deep post and connected and just like that the Indians were stunned and down by 6. The extra point good and before you can settle in the Rams were up 7-0. The Indians first possession was a quick 4 and out with a good punt. The cloudy overcast day really looked gloomy for the home team at this point. The Rams moved down field but the Indians would stop them. The next Indian possession showed great promise as they raced toward the endzone and tied the score up. Both teams battling on the gridiron going with what's working. One thing about the RCK faithful, there wasn't a lot of fans, maybe because the threat of rain hovered over the field. But the students have formed what they call the "Krazies" and they have cheers - so when you have 50+ kids screaming out in unison it was pretty awesome. The Indians are attacking with more confidence and drive down the field with a mix of sweeps, counters, and passes. They run wide right and the pack of blockers ahead of the running back crush the lonely Ram cornerback and the Indians take the lead 14-7. Carmel is not going down without a fight and try to use their skill and might to stop the surge of the Indians. As both teams giving what they got and neither team giving up much, it's starting to become a good game. As the Rams were marching down the field their quarterback who was playing exceptional put up a errant pass and intercepted by the swarming Indians. The Indians took advantage of the mistake and power back up the field with sweeps and off tackle runs. The Rams bending but holding ground and have the Indians in a long situation, but the running of the Indians are gaining the necessary yards to continue the drive. The Indians throw a quick out and the receiver breaks a tackle a scampers in. There was a penalty on the home team and the points come off. The next play RCK throws in the middle and no question about this one and are winning 21-7 and go into the half with that score.
The mighty Rams are down two scores at half and I'm sure are making adjustments for the second half. And those adjustments pay dividends. The next possession of the Rams is a team effort to put one in the endzone and now down 21-14. The Indians who seemed a little off balance gain composer and answer back and again lead by two scores 28-14. Time is winding down but the Rams are not leaving without showing the Krazies why they were pick as a top team and score making it 28-21. The game has unfolded into a great high school battle. Both teams were displaying great play calling at crucial times. The game in its last quarter and the Rams just scored making it 28-21 going for an onside kick. The kicker kicks the perfect ball its skipping toward the sideline on a trajectory of the allotted 10 yards, and the Indians are watching it coming toward them not moving. The Rams dashing down and pounce on the ball! The Rams elated they have the ball, but unfortunately they pounced on it 2 yards too early. The ball goes to the Indians with the clock winding down. The Indians go nowhere with the good field position and set up to punt the ball down field. There wasn't too many errors made by the home team, except! oh no the punt is blocked and the Rams have the ball in Indian territory. Yikes! Of all the times to not make a blunder this wasn't the time. Especially with the Rams confidence back up after being down by 2 scores. The Rams are now in striking distance. The mood has changed and its going to get more antsy now. With an impressive drive like the last two the Rams can escape with a victory. The home team didn't break and held on to the victory in a game that was full of emotions and drama. It was a good game on both sides. If you never been to a high school football game you may be missing more than just a game. It's a community affair full of pride and fun.

Grading Your Summer Pt. 2

2009-09-08T18:32:00.003-04:00

Well the end of the summer has come. I know it just seems like yesterday I was planning my Memorial Day weekend but my Labor Day weekend has ended.
Halfway through summer I posted "Scorecard Your Summer So Far". I gave my summer an A up till that point. I recall the places I visited and the things I did. I tried to see if the weather caused any problems, but the weather was cooperative. There were some times rain would be forecasted and it rained often, but looking back the rain didn't cause any problems except twice. I had a good time all in all. Now that the summer has come to and end let me reflect on what I did and how the weather effected any decisions. As you view my list - write down what you did. Did you enjoy it? Did it rain on you?

June
6-6 Wethersfield Estates and Gardens
6-6 Fundraiser for First White Plains basketball team
6-7 Birds of Prey at Green Chimneys- www.greenchimneys.org
6-13 Orange County Speedway- www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net
6-14 Stonecrop Gardens - www.stonecrop.org
6-19 Troupe Solstice
6-21 Rhinebeck Aerodrome-www.oldrhinebeck.org
6-27 Lebanon Valley Speedway - www.lebanonvalley.com
6-28 Breakneck Ridge

July
7-4 Macy's Fireworks- Chelsea Piers, NY
7-12 Eastern Football Alliance 3 way scrimmage - www.efafootball.info
7-18 LeMans Racing at Lime Rock Park - www.limerock.com
7-22-7-26 Basketball Tournament "Best of Best" in Ohio - www.necsdasports.org
Not much happening in July but all in all a good one.

August
8-2 Eastern Football Alliance game - Steelers vs Seminoles - RAINED OUT
8-9 Eastern Football Alliance game - Steelers vs Falcons
8-16 Eastern Football Alliance game- Steelers vs Wolfpack
8/20 Kent Falls Trail - www.berkshirehiking.com/hikes/kent_falls.html
8/24 Madam Brett Park-www.beaconny.org/html/mbpark.html
8/25 Imani's 17th Birthday party- Dave and Busters
8/30 Eastern Football Alliance game- Steelers vs Hustlers

September
9/5 Howe Caverns -www.howecaverns.com
9/6 Catskills- North and South Lakes

Well that's my summer summed up. I still have to give it an A. The weather was pleasant and all the events I went to the weather, traffic, people, etc wasn't a problem. I hope you had a very enjoyable summer as I did. I do look forward for autumn, I love the changing of the leaves and the cool fresh air even though, this summer was a bit cooler than I can recall.
Let me know how you would score your summer.

A Bug's Life

2009-08-29T09:37:00.020-04:00

The other day I thought I do a little experiment and try macro photography. Macro photography is a technique using a lens that can focus sharply on small objects. Usually achieving a 1:1 ratio. Meaning the image on the film or sensor is the same size as the object being photographed. There are some "macro" lenses that can have a higher ratio that will make the subject larger than life. Macro photography can be used for stamps, coins, flowers and other small objects but the fun is really trying to capture insects. Sure flowers come a close second but the insect world is fascinating and weird. If you search the internet for macro photography you'll be bombarded on the vast articles, images,blogs and equipment. Some of the most impressive pictures are of insects that are larger than life. Great detail can be achieved once you understand some basic things. One of the most important things is depth of field or focus. Focusing on small objects really isn't much different than bigger ones, except you want greater detail- one has to get good depth of field to bring out the 3d realism of the object. There may be times when you only get a small area in focus as the other areas are blurry. This is where different pieces of equipment can help. There are many types of different equipment to aid you in your quest to capture depth of field. The main piece will be the lens itself. There are many size "macro" lenses on the market. The "macro" lens is optimized to focus on small objects. If you don't want to spend money on another lens you can opt to use extension tubes, reverse lens mounts or close up lenses(filters) you can also use bellows. A good place to get information about macro photography is use Wikipedia.
I was bug hunting around Pelton Pond at Fahnestock State Park and Madam Brett Park. Most of the areas to find bugs are around the edges of the water where the flowers are or under rocks. I tried under rocks but the centipedes and ants where moving too fast to even attempt. A tripod which is an absolute for getting fabulous photos of flowers in not a piece I will use for my bug hunting quest. I will be using my Canon EF 100mm 1:2.8 macro. So since the heat was beating on me I thought I'll try to go to the flowers and try my luck. Also if I failed to get the elusive bugs I could get the non moving flowers, because I still have a tripod handy. The first thing I noticed was the amount of bugs that were flying around and the different types. To streamline my results the butterflies forget about, they flew away immediately and even though I chased a few it was not working. Same for the dragonflies. That left me with a few of the more "not scared of a person next to me bugs"- Bees, moths, and flies, not to be confused with the more "like to eat the person next me bugs"- mosquitoes, gnats and ticks. And of course the creatures that just sit there waiting for you - spiders. Now with my quick assessment of the bugs around me I could attempt my skill. There was some type of fly that didn't move so it was a good candidate. Bees were the most fun to capture because they would hover and collect pollen and getting them was a bit of a challenge because they were constantly moving around inside the flower. Moths seem to be less challenging than the bee but almost like the butterfly and would fly away only if you startled it. If you moved slowly the moth seemed not to care. And the spiders was just there. The only problem with the spiders I found was their webs were close to the ground and that caused a problem with the background, plus the small sizes of the spiders. Where are those big spiders when you need them? Now that I have an idea of the macro world around me and the characteristics of my participants it's time to actually take a picture or two or a hundred because only 4 would be good! When you're observing something it's different when you put a camera between you and that object and that couldn't be more the truth than what I was trying to accomplish. Trying to focus on small moving objects with a camera and the camera in auto focus is a no no. I won't go there but trust me you don't want to do it You have to go manual and have to be really quick about it. If you don't know how to use your camera in manual this isn't the time to learn. Depth of field is intense and grass blades become a headache. I was swiveling my head around and up and down frantically. I had to look just ridiculous- there would be no other way to describe my quick jerk robotic motions. And when you finally get a bug in focus it flies away leaving you cursing up a storm. Fun and frustrating was the emotions that were bouncing through my brain. Picture this- the day is about 80 degrees its midday, The sweat is flowing off my bald head like a broken water main- I have my camera pressed against my right eye- and I moving around like C3PO being chased by Stormtroppers. That's where the REAL picture is- not me taking pictures of these bugs. Anyway, final notes; Try earlier in the morning, look under more rocks and logs, keep auto focus off, be fast at focusing and shooting, have fun and be patient and bring bug spray to keep the pests off.
Next time you want to try something new- try macro photography.

A Cooling Solution for the Summer

2009-08-21T19:58:00.012-04:00

There are many ways to beat the hazy and humid hot days of the summer. Most of us find large bodies of water that cools our skin and our state of mind. Nothing really feels refreshing than a cool pool or ocean waves pushing us back to shore. Others may escape indoors for air condition relief. You may be doing both, but the goal is to be cooled. Have you tried a waterfall? What? Where? Well I found a cooling solution in the Kent Falls in Connecticut. Kent Falls is located on Route 7 in Kent, CT.(www.stateparks.com/kent_falls.html).Its a great place to picnic with the many tables provided and spacious grassy area. Most come to see the falls, a great fall or series of waterfalls on a mountain stream known as Falls Brook. Let's start at the bottom and work or walk our way up. From the parking lot you'll cross over a covered bridge as you notice in the distance water cascading over limestone plateaus as it meanders into a small stream that's flowing outward toward the river. You'll walk past the many tables and large grassy field noticing people wading in the reflecting pool of the last waterfall. The size of the waterfall is eye opening especially as water is racing down the multi-tiered rock facades. There's a handful of water dwellers at this rocky reflecting pool enjoying the cool water rushing down on them. Some walked toward the falls to have the water shower on top of them, the most advantageous way to beat the heat. I gingerly walk over the rocks with my camera equipment to capture a perfect view of the falls directly in front. The water is calm, with rocks scattered across the stream. I thought about taking off my shoes and just walking in with no worries, but this is the beginning of my quest and I have about 1/4 mile hike up to the top. So the balancing act of walking on the rocks while holding a tripod and backpack was challenging and I'm always up for a good challenge. At this point some swimmers stayed in this part as others were just above them at another natural pool made by the next level of waterfalls. I took the trail paralleled to the falls and ascended. Although not a difficult climb, it's steep. Now there are other trails that you can take but none could compare to the one alongside the waterfall. Especially, as it seemed so much cooler than venturing into the woods and this magnificent view need I say more! There's a new fence on the path to keep you safe, plus wooded lookout areas that have beautiful views of the falling water. On my way up stopping at these lookouts I capture and partake in the serenity that's surrounding me. I realize how enjoyable the swimmers look and how awesome this place is. The waterfall seemed to be continually extending upward into the woods. The humidity is lingering, but the bright sunlight was being blocked by the vast trees blanketing the surroundings providing shade, a great commodity during this hot, hazy and humid day. Just about every early level someone was in the water, but as you get higher the falls path becomes narrow and the roar of the crashing water is pronounced, no one is in these free falling waters or the clear pools. Beautiful and peaceful with a gorgeous day like today the falls seem to rinse your stress away. The water is falling over many rock formations and snaking through the valley at every height level. These fantastic sights can be viewed throughout the climb at any location. The rocks make great subjects because of the way the water has shaped them and some have strange holes of different sizes in them. Finally at the top of the big fall where water plunges about 70 feet and from here is the start of water flowing into lesser falls down the valley where it will enter the Housatonic River about 200 feet below. It was really a tranquil hike. I could understand why people choose this waterfall for a cooling solution, it cooled you and you're in a place of tranquility. Nothing really feels refreshing than relaxing in a waterfall. To see more great photos of go to www.clarkshots.com

Gridiron Griddle

2009-08-18T20:04:00.014-04:00

I went to photograph another semi-pro football game in Tibbets Brook Park, Yonkers, NY. The Westchester Steelers were host to the Wolfpack. The heat finally has reached record breaking temperatures and today was a scorcher as the temp tipped in the 90's. If you ever been to Tibbets Brook Park than you know the football fields are in open areas and there is no shade on the premise. The heat just hovered over the field hugging everything in its grasp. The Steelers kicked off to the Wolfpack to start the battle on the gridiron. The Wolfpack had about 1/3 the players as the fully stock Steelers so their name, Wolfpack, fit them perfectly. The artificial field reflected the heat back up like a frying pan sauteing a meal. The Wolfpack had a slow start and punted the ball away. The Steelers came out dominating and their quarterback burned "the Pack" on a scramble for a touchdown, the extra point was good. Steelers scoring early and looking good. The Wolfpack, even though lacking the personal were shuffling players around, some guys were going both ways. Not a good thing to do on this hot day, but like I always say it doesn't matter how many on a team- its those who play that counts. The Wolfpack was playing! There were a couple of water breaks giving to the teams because of the relentless humidity that acted as another opponent. The water breaks were a big welcome that help hydrate the teams and "the Pack" needed it because of their rotation. There were good plays by both teams but the Wolfpack was starting to break. They had a fourth and long and punted the ball away but a penalty pushed them back so the punter had to kick from his end zone. Yeah! you know what's next- a bull rush by the Steelers, blocked punt and the ball is bouncing in the end zone when a Steeler pounces on it but his momentum pushes him out and it's a safety instead of a touchdown. The Wolfpack dodge a bullet and are only down by 9 instead of 13. That's how the half ends with the Steelers 9 and Wolfpack 0.
The Steelers made a blunder on the coin toss which allowed the Wolfpack to receive the ball to start the second half. It didn't backfire because the Wolfpack couldn't sustain a drive. The Steelers defense was dominating. Which was a good thing because "the Pack" was just really a score away in making this a very interesting game. The players on the Wolfpack were draining you could see it and hear it from them. Going both ways was taking a toll and the Steelers were gaining momentum. The Steelers are driving, passing and running with authority. They score late in the fourth quarter and put the last nail in the coffin for "the Pack". The Steelers defense is too overpowering for the Wolfpack offense and as time melts away the game ends.
To see the action of the game go to www.clarkshots.com
Buy a photo or two they've been well recieved by many so far and make great gifts.

Revenge of the Falcons

2009-08-10T18:43:00.033-04:00

Saturday late afternoon I'm in Far Rockaway, NY home on the NYC Falcons. /www.eteamz.com/nycfalcons/index.cfm?.The Falcons are on a mission and that mission is to avenge the loss they suffered in the first round of last year's playoffs to the team they're about to do battle against.
The Westchester Steelers, www.eteamz.com/mtvernonsteelers, are confident and prepared to get back on the winning track after last week's canceled game due to weather and their impressive victory in the initial week.
The Falcons donned in deep black from helmet to cleat with blood red trim which makes them look menacing and intimidating. The Steelers in white with gold helmets and gold trim making them look like kings and authority figures.
The Steelers win the coin toss and elect to kick off. The teams go into their group huddles and with loud alarming voices each team breaks their huddle with loud chants. I'm on the visitor's sideline and I hear "turnover" which is a favorite Steelers' mantra. And as if by coincidence the Falcons do turnover the ball on their first possession. The Steelers defense is amped and the Falcons are frustrated. The Steelers have great field position and are ready to take advantage. The Falcons have strengthen and press hard. Penalties are accessed and the Steelers are moving backward losing that precious position. Missteps, penalties and turnovers seem to dominate both teams. The Steelers are in punt formation as the ball carries over the punter into the end zone, the punter picks up the loose ball and makes a miraculous return. Other than that run the Steelers have trouble running and every time they throw the ball it seems to be placed in the soaring hands of the Falcons defense. The Falcons also seemed to be stumbling on offense and when good fortune goes their way, turnovers seem to follow. The Falcons manage to get inside the red zone and the Steelers defense is stifling, so the Falcons try to go wide, you guessed it turnover the ball. The Steelers run a play and you guessed it turn it right back over. Defense on both teams are playing relentless and making things happen, the offenses' are not in sync. The first quarter flashes by and both teams had advantages to make a statement and neither could capitalize on their opportunities.
The second quarter is emulating the first. Neither offense seems to continue drives unless the yellow laundry of the refs happens to benefit. The game is not sloppy by any means, sure it may have calls that are contributing to the momentum, but these teams are bringing it and exceptional play by individuals are making their marks known. As the clock runs down the Falcons intercept a pass and bull rush half the length of the field and score... but wait! - yellow flags are scattered below the joyous bunch and a penalty negates the score.
The Steelers receive the ball to start the third quarter and frustration is still plaguing them. They punt it away and the Falcons seem poised to strike. The Falcons have found a weakness and it's the middle of the Steelers defense. The Falcons run up the gut for a few then throw an out pass which connects that sends the home field in an uproar. The Falcons are moving and seem to be moving at will. They connect again on a fantastic pass and catch combo that brings them inside the red zone. The next play they power up the middle and score the first points that counts, no yellow cloths, as the runner back high steps in easily. The Falcons try a two point conversion and fail. Leading 6-0 and being the first to score is a big advantage and confidence builder for the men in black. The Steelers try running to establish momentum but its not getting it done. The Falcons running game is clicking and they throw a deep post and connect. It seemed to catch the Steelers off balance. Again in striking range the Falcons try a half back option and the receiver was wide open in the end zone but the pass was too high. The next play the Falcons run up the middle and success again. That score uplifts the Falcons higher while stomping the Steelers lower. They try another two point conversion as the quarterback rolls right and throws into the end zone for the conversion, but I knew we couldn't keep those yellow flags from flying, another penalty and another try, but the defense holds and now the Steelers are faced with at 12 point deficit and time running out. The fourth quarter starts and it's desperation for Steelers. They throw one deep corner route and connect inside the red zone, but nothing sparked after that. The Falcons ran 3 consecutive draw plays up the middle and were successful and now close to the end zone. The Steelers hold and get the ball back but time is fading and fading fast... The Revenge of The Falcons tear the soul out of their opponent and satisfies that bitter loss from last year. Both teams are 1-1 and may have to do battle again later this year.
To see complete photo coverage go to www.clarkshots.com

Scorecard Your Summer So Far

2009-08-04T19:17:00.013-04:00

I woke up the other day and thought to myself that the summer is almost over!
What did I do?
Have I enjoyed it?
The first thing that came to mind was the weather. It was a cooler and more of a wet summer than I can remember. So I'm asking you! Score your summer. Let's start with a start date and the best one is Memorial Day, the weekend that's kicks things off, and the ending day will be Labor Day, the end of summer vacation and the beginning of another school year. I know we have more summer left but I thought we can gauge how our summer has been. You might find that you did more than expected or maybe the weather dampened some of your outings. Looking back there were a few things that I had to reschedule or shuffle until a later date. For example we wanted to go to the Howe Caverns, but we had knee surgery in June which pushed that out of the summer maybe into the autumn. Another family favorite is Lake Compounce, still on the calendar but was shuffled a few times. You may have had a previous event canceled or reshuffled.
Let us begin with Memorial Day weekend

MAY
5-23 Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic site. www.nps.gov/vama
Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic site. www.nps.gov/hofr
5-24 Family Reunion - Good food, great times
5-25 Clarence Fahnestock State Park. www.nysparks.state.ny

To read the articles of these places and events go to the right side of this post and click on topic under the Labels section. example Historic Sites, or Hiking. Or go to the Blog Archives and under the month select the title example, Dining with Belly dancers.

June
6-6 Wethersfield Estates and Gardens. www.dutchesstourism.com/gardens.asp
6-6 Fundraiser for First White Plains basketball team
6-7 Birds of Prey at Green Chimneys- www.greenchimneys.org
6-13 Orange County Speedway- www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net
6-14 Stonecrop Gardens - www.stonecrop.org
6-19 Troupe Solstice
6-21 Rhinebeck Aerodrome-www.oldrhinebeck.org
6-27 Lebanon Valley Speedway - www.lebanonvalley.com
6-28 Breakneck Ridge

July
7-4 Macy's Fireworks- Chelsea Piers, NY
7-12 Eastern Football Alliance 3 way scrimmage - www.efafootball.info
7-18 LeMans Racing at Lime Rock Park - www.limerock.com
7-22-7-26 Basketball Tournament "Best of Best" in Ohio - www.necsdasports.org
Not much happening in July but all in all a good one.

August
8-2 Eastern Football Alliance game - Steelers vs Seminoles - RAINED OUT

Looking back I did more and the weather was always a factor, but it probably interfered less than I want to claim but it was always around. The threat of a thunderstorm or rumble of thunder was the norm. I can recall a few times the rains came after the event like the family reunion, Orange County Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway. Also I had to change the date for the Aerodrome because it rained the previous day.
How was your summer so far?
It's not over yet and I know I have semi-pro football games on Sundays, Birthdays toward the end. Lake Compounce still floating around. NFL preseason game on a Saturday night and during the Labor Weekend another day at Lime Rock Park to finish my racing season. Things I know I won't do like go to the beach or shore any more hiking will be done in October during the changing of the leaves. So my last days of summer are pretty much accounted for. I hope you reflect on what you did and leave a comment for others to see if you scored it higher or lower than expected. I have to score mine higher I thought a B- or B but the cooler weather wasn't bad and the rain I avoided quite nicely I only had one rain out and that just passed on the 2nd of August. Been to the movies a few times, did some housework outside. So I guess I have to keep the score at an A. The plus side is I haven't put the air conditioner on - Yet! today was 90 so I may be eating my words.
To read any of my experiences go to the right of this post a click away. To see photos go to
www.clarkshots.com
www.flickr.com/photos/cthompson2

Best of Best Tournament

2009-07-28T20:09:00.009-04:00

I accompanied the White Plains basketball team to the outskirts of Cincinnati, Ohio for the "Best of Best" tournament. Teams from Chicago, Detroit, North Carolina, Washington D.C. and Cincinnati were participants in this best team from their region tourney. The tournament was held at a sporting complex named Sports Plus in Sharonville, Oh. There were 6 full basketball courts plus many other things for sporting events and video games.

White Plains representing New York was going against Maywood one of the teams representing Illinois. Illinois had a Chicago representative also. New York was cold and never got hot. They found themselves down double digits early as Maywood was executing plays at will. New York was playing out of character and lacking professionalism. New York's communication was failing and their defense seemed non-existent. Coach Felix called a time out and instructed his team to refocus on the goal and correct what they were displaying. He was telling them no need to reflect on their poor performance and concentrate on what got them to this tournament. The team did start to spark and was ahead by a few buckets, but Maywood didn't sway and knew if they kept the heat on New York will self destruct because their behavior was dictating their game play. Besides, New York's poor performance Maywood was a high caliber team and their teamwork and accurate shooting was commendable.

New York falls into the loser's bracket and their next opponent is Cincinnati. Before that game I had a chance to see other teams play on other courts. The talent that was out there was exceptional. There are very good players on all the teams and that's why they are participating in this tournament.

New York and Cincinnati are frustrated and disappointed that they're in this game, but to move on they have to start anew. New York came out much better and was dominating the game. Cincinnati wasn't going down without a fight. During this game something was happening behind the scenes about the format of the tourney. Unofficially, I had not received the facts from reliable sources, but it seems that teams are suppose to play 3 games instead of the 2 . 2 games is demanding and asking teams to play 3 is daunting. All I know is that Chicago and Maywood are standing at 2-0 and should be the teams going into the final game. Back to the New York - Cincinnati game New York is showing some of it's swagger and beats Cincinnati now standing at 1-1 and finding out that they can't play in the championship game puts a damper on their spirits. They can play for third place but in doing so they have to play another game now. 3 games in a day is an up hill battle, but their opponent, Washington D.C. also has that task at hand.

Washington comes out gunning. Their accuracy is amazing. New York is in the hole again and up against a formidable opponent. Washington is just cruising and it seems like an easy win until New York comes back to life and starts making a comeback. Their comeback is too late and their hope is diminishing. Washington wins by 2 and the reality hits hard. New York knew it was a much better team that was playing, but there is no way to redeem the loses and no one was there for any sympathy. The Best of The Best means that and to be in the championship game the best never consistently manifested in New York.

To see action photos of the tournament go to www.clarkshots.com

Mid Hudson Balloon Festival

2009-07-19T14:36:00.028-04:00

For the last couple of years the Hudson Valley sponsors a hot air balloon festival. Balloons would be launched at various sites through out the river towns in Dutchess County, NY. Like years in the past I would go to the mass launch site early Sunday morning, before sunrise, at the Hudson River Rowing Association a little north of the Poughkeepsie train station.

The morning would be still dark as the helpers would unfold the balloons upon the moist grass and attach the wicker basket. They have a fan to mix cool air with the hot air that is produced from the burners on top of the baskets. This mixture of air would flow into these psychedelic envelopes. Seeing short bursts of flames thrust into the nylon envelopes in the darken surroundings were eerie and fascinating. It doesn't take that long for one of these balloons to reach full capacity.

This year there seems to be more balloons than usual and also the crowd has also increased in size. The balloons launch right at the edge of the land before the Hudson River. As these upside down kaleidoscopic tear drops would start to inflate expanding their bold colors against the blue sky their gigantic size really makes a presence. It's like seeing huge candy gum drops as 3 or 4 balloons start to inflate. It's more magical when a row of them are inflating and these massive rainbows are bouncing around gaining their shape. When the balloons reach their hot air capacity they just go up. They're suppose to take off around 6am and the ground chief is making sure they do that. Up, up and away they go one by one. The good news is that they are barely moving so it's common to see a few just hanging around until the hot air lifts them or the cool wind gently pushes them. This morning is especially special because of all the years witnessing this event this is the first time where all these colorful buoyant balls seemed ecstatic to be floating over the river. It used to be only one heading west but today all seemed to go to the river and dip the gondola in for a dip and float away. The kayaks and boaters really got a treat seeing these balloons resembling large lollipops hovering over them and the calm Hudson River with the sun just peeking over the ridges just reflecting on the east side of the balloons. With the large majority of balloons heading west over the river the scene is just beautiful with the calm river and these balloons just barely moving is a wonderful sight to see in the early morning. Some balloons are lowering their baskets at the water's edge and what an odd sight to see balloons simulated sailboats as they skim over the surface of the water. With the sun coming up it's casting beautiful reflections in the water.

check out the my gallery at www.flickr.com/photos/cthompson2
and also on facebook.

Le Mans at Lime Rock Park

2009-07-19T11:05:00.023-04:00

My good friend Bill is a car enthusiast and he informs me about the racing venues around my area and the ones I should attend. He told me about the Le Mans Series at Lime Rock Park a year ago but I couldn't make it because of scheduling. This year, the American Le Mans Series Northeast Grand Prix was on my schedule and I wasn't going to miss it. So far this year I had my need for speed satisfied. Check out my other post "The Need For Speed" and "Roar, Rumble and Roar" in the archives. Lime Rock Park http://www.limerock.com/ in Connecticut is a racing track that is situated in the small hamlet of Lakeville and was completed in the late 1950's. The track is short, fast and contains some extreme elevation changes, there are no bleachers and the track is encompassed in hills. You bring in your chairs or blankets and set up along the track's grassy hills. Bill told me to print a map of the track as he plotted areas that would be of good interest because of his many visits.

I started at the "Esses", just like it sounds. Its were S curves snake around the landscape and I walked up to one of the waypoints past "No Name Straight". This was a place of interest because of the rain that's been clobbering the east coast and at this point there was a flooded area right before a hard right turn into "Uphill". I thought this particular area was going to cause a problem because the cars are coming down a small incline at top speed into the straightaway and than this water slick before the hard right turn into "Uphill". As the first race started there was an accident right after the water trail and before "Uphill". "Back Straight" and "West Bend" also had some very exhilarating views. After "Uphill" the racing machines were on the"Back Straight" what seemed like they had after burners on. Trying to snap a picture was difficult because of the extreme velocity the cars were displaying. But at "West Bend" the cars had to slow and this place as Bill had also plotted was an excellent vantage point. The cars than had another decline before the "Main Straight" and then to a mass turn named "Big Ben". I traveled around the track to catch the many views it had to offer and each place gave the race a totally different experience.

The American Le Mans Northeast Grand Prix had many races through out the day. The races started at 10am and were winding down at 5pm. I witnessed Formula BMW America, IMSA Lites, Cooper Tires Atlantic Championship and the American Le Mans Series. Plenty of racing and many different division of racing machines participating. One of the coolest things was getting into the park and Lime Rock had owners of BMW's parked in the entrance to the parking areas where there were owners of Porsches parked in one are as well as owners of Corvettes in another. All different years mixed throughout the parking area. A great concept to promote cars and showing them gathered in particular places. The racing cars was fast and agile, the driver's skills were outstanding and watching these cars blast by was totally awesome. The racing was extremely entertaining and intense. The racing is on a time limit and the 30 minutes races was fast and furious. The second of the timed races ended on a caution so the leader couldn't be passed for about a lap and half, what a way to win. The short track seemed that the cars would appear in about a minute, so if you blinked, especially at "No Name Straight", "Back Straight" and "Main Straight" no worries they'd be back before you wiped your brow. The racing was truly exciting but nothing compared to the main Le Mans race. Bill has always kept me informed about a group of local racers out of my area of Poughkeepsie, Dyson Racing. Dyson had two Lola Mazda coupes, http://www.dysonracing.com/ , numbered 16 and 20. The number 16 had problems and didn't finish. There were 2 Acura ARX's that were explosive. The XM sponsored Acura was leading the whole race until about 20 minutes left in the race it had a tire problem and what was a very impressive showing by the Acura was very disappointing. The other Acura came through and won the race. Bill was telling me there's a vintage car race at Lime Rock in September, maybe my craving for racing isn't satisfied.

I've posted some photos at www.flickr.com/photos/cthompson2 and also on clarkshots.com's face book page.

Semi-Pro Football Preseason

2009-07-09T18:39:00.030-04:00

I'm at the home field of the Westchester Steelers semi-pro football team located at Gorton HS in Yonkers, NY, www.eteamz.com/mtvernonsteelers. Coach Ken Esehak Steelers are sporting their gold and black and getting ready to participate in a 3 way scrimmage with Coach Booker McJunkin's New York Venom wearing white and black, http://www.nyvenom.com/ and Coach"Heavy"LMunnJr.'s New York City Hustlers wearing purple and black, http://www.nychustler.com/. The teams belong in the Eastern Football Alliance, http://www.efafootball.info/ and if you or someone you know is interested in participating in semi-pro football the above links can be very helpful to them.

The scrimmage was a control scrimmage as each team played a number of plays on offense and defense and switched between themselves in a round robin type format. This format did not stop the teams from sending the pain. There were some bone crushing hits as well as some outstanding catching. The teams were fine tuning to get ready for the 2009 season which kicks off late July.
The scrimmage is turning out to be something that all the teams can benefit from. The offenses of each team are working on their blocking schemes as well as the quarterback and receivers working on their timing. Speaking to offensive coordinator, coach Deano, of the Steelers he's more interested on getting his offense to focus on being a complete team. He feels his running game has improved and wants the offense to realize with a complete passing attack his team can be force in the league. There were a couple of touchdown passes thrown, but the defenses on all the teams looked good. The hitting was hard and explosive. I saw a few blitzes that worked well and seen some give up yardage when the failed. A couple of short yard bursts were all that most defenses were giving up. Running in this league requires tough running backs, because the defensive linemen and linebackers attack runners like killer whales on the unexpected. But they did fall to the accurate pass that all the quarterbacks were throwing. It's very hard to dictate how each team fared because the format wasn't in a game situation so the teams never were in a 2nd short or 3rd in long. There wasn't any special team play either so punt, punt return, kickoff, kickoff return, field goal attempts and short yardage weren't being played. All in all it was good for teams to practice "live" against an opponent other then themselves.

This summer if you want to see some very exciting smash mouth, hard hitting football with some very talented players peruse the above sites and attend a game or two. Tell a friend you will not be disappointed. The semi-pro teams in the area are worth seeing.

check out the scrimmage photos on http://www.clarkshots.com/

Fireworks on the Fourth

2009-07-05T10:16:00.040-04:00

Happy Fourth of July to America and to all Americans. I went to Manhattan to visit family and enjoy the Macy's fireworks. It was a pleasant day, partly cloudy and breezy.
I arrived early at Chelsea Pier and talked to a group of New York's finest, NYPD, to plan my strategy for the evening. My family lives walking distance to the pier and this would be ideal. After speaking with the officers the waterfront would be off limits. How could this be? Not only was New York celebrating our nation's Independence Day it was also celebrating the official 400th year anniversary of explorer, Henry Hudson , the river that bears his name. This is why the fireworks have been moved from the East River to the Hudson River or did I not get the memo?I was told the northbound side of 12th Avenue was the closest anyone can get and from West 24th Street was the start. 12th Avenue runs parallel to the Hudson River and I was already at the starting point West 24th Street. How disappointing that no one could be at the river's edge to view the show. I went to the Chelsea Waterside Park, and watched families enjoy the park to it's fullest there's even a dog park for your canine to bark with his dogs. I found a good spot at the corner of West 24 Street and 12 Avenue- NOT- was told by the Park's Department this would be also off limits when the fireworks start. Starting out 0-2 looking for an ideal spot. Knowing 12th Avenue was the staging spot and West 24th Street the beginning I went north a few blocks somewhere between 27th & 28th it was still early enough because many New Yorkers couldn't believe what I already learned, you couldn't view the fireworks from the Hudson River waterfront during the 400th Hudson River celebration (huh?). I was looking for a spot with the best view and least amount of obstructions. As the police shut down the road and countless New Yorkers who were diverted from trying to reach the waterfront are now blanketing the avenue. The barrier the was put up was adjusted numerous times to accommodate the immense crowd.

Darkness is creeping in, the breeze is picking up, and the hordes of people are now mingling about. Space is a commodity as hundreds of people are looking to settle down.

All of a sudden Boom! The initial lights of the pyrotechnics lit the dark sky. My spot was perfect. There were a few barges in the Hudson River positioned to display the fireworks and one is directly in front of me and I didn't know it because of my distance from the river, the tree line, and bike path between me. There's one barge to my left and one to my right they seemed right next to one another, but they and others had to cover the entire west side so I know they had some distance between them . I have a panoramic view of three firework displays in sync with one another simulating a huge 3d kaleidoscope as the booms echo of the buildings behind me. The fireworks are coming out fast and the booms are getting louder. The barges are sending up explosives in a timely and precise manner. The crowd is cheering and the sky is continually lit. What a display! There are times that the explosives are so large that they overlap and it seemed I was at a planetarium looking at constellations because the entire area was lit. The fireworks kept going and what a fantastic view. The crowd and I cheering wanted more and we were getting more. The extremely colored lights were fascinating and right on top of us. If I had to sum it up- it was bold, bright and big. No matter which way I was looking the sky was full with lights burning in magnificent vivid colors, loud booms were filling the breezy night and Americans were enjoying themselves as far as the eye could see north and south of the ave. The display was simply great and even with the huge crowds walking back to my parking spot and leaving New York was orderly and smooth.

To see more of this historic event visit http://www.clarkshots.com/

Breathtaking and Breakneck Ridge

2009-06-28T19:17:00.054-04:00

A beautiful Sunday morning and finally no rain in sight I took my friend Mark to a popular hiking place, Breakneck Ridge, part of the Hudson Highland State Parks in Beacon, NY. Breakneck Ridge starts almost at the edge of the Hudson River and meanders eastward and upward. We parked in the packed parking area off 9D and started our adventure. Once we got to the trail base we walked over to the edge to capture the panoramic view of the Hudson River, with Storm King Mountain in front of us in the west and following the train tracks toward Bannerman Castles ruins to the north. The late morning sky was just turning blue and the sun was peeking through as the gray clouds were finally losing their grip over the region. There's a gentle breeze adding to this rewarding view and a refreshing way to start our hike.

One of the first sights you see looking up Breakneck Ridge besides the obvious green trees and gray rock facade is an American flag. Mark noted that the Stars and Stripes would be our destination, but we had a challenging and demanding path ahead. At the start of the incline are rocks, boulders, trees, and roots scattered about which means hard and sharp edges with uneven footing. Finding good footing is scarce and having good balance and perception are essential as the path up every few hundred yards is compelling. Plus this is a very popular hiking venue so hikers are ahead or behind you navigating for a bee line path up this very steep incline.

We made it to the flag pole and it really didn't seem as perilous as we thought. The breathtaking scenery was just beautiful. You can see the Shawangunk and Catskill mountains in the distance.

The Hudson River was a playground for boats as you can see north and south for miles. We walked around and this wasn't a place for carelessness. The height we were at had a realm of vertigo, the jagged edges, and a cliff made your senses think safety and caution. But this seemed too easy of a climb reaching the flag pole, so we and other hikers continued up the mountain. With each step up the mountain it became more of a challenge and there were times you crawled up the face of rocks, did I mention carelessness isn't an option. We climbed up small crevices grabbing whatever could hold us and pulled ourselves up. We came to a very narrow path on the side of the mountain -this was breathtaking, we stopped to enjoy the view, a breeze was stirring and a hawk flew just a few feet overhead. You could hear the air over his wings when he flapped them to catch the breeze. Mark looked at me and said,"wow!" It was really an astonishing sight to witness.

We started back up climbing to reach the summit and when we did we were greeted by other hikers who made it and were enjoying the view. It was exhilarating finally getting to the summit. We sat down and reflected on the climb up and were enjoying the vistas of the joining mountains that surrounded us. A group of hikers were heading east to climb up another mountain and even though we wanted to join in, we wanted to use that as our next objective when we come back. If we would've done it then revisiting would've been harder to do because like most things once you do something once you're usually looking for the next best thing and we wanted to come back and now we have an incentive. From the flag that we thought would have been our climb for the day we're now about twice as high up looking for more. One thing I got from Mark, who usually travels by the trains that go pass this very place is the appreciation and beauty the area holds. Now it's time to descend. If going up was demanding - going down was another adventure all in itself. If you want to do something that's challenging and has beautiful scenery go on 9D right at the tunnel between Cold Spring and Beacon and locate the trail head on the west side toward Beacon and you'll have a great time. Prepare yourself because it may be a bit intimidating but very doable.

Photos of this adventure are at http://www.clarkshots.com/, also find clarkshots.com on facebook.

The Need for Speed

2009-06-28T19:14:00.009-04:00

The need for speed was racing in my veins this weekend so Peggy and I headed to Lebanon Valley Dragway in West Lebanon, NY. www.lebanonvalley.com The Lebanon Speedway has an oval track and a quarter mile asphalt dragway a great place to see great racing competitions. The parking lot had an array of racing machines as they were being unloading and tuning up for the quarter mile. The paint design of one of the dragsters that was parked next to me was phenomenal. It had yellow flames from the tip of it tiny tires to the end of the big slickers. Peggy commented on how she would love to have that design on her nails. She has long nails and she keeps them decorated, but that's another story.

The roar of thunder was in surround sound and this time it wasn't the weather. There were top dragsters, junior dragster, pro stock cars, and street cars howling around and about. We made our way to the stands and saw an odd site. A motorcycle was in the far lane but a modified snow mobile was in the near lane. Yes! a snow mobile revving up and getting ready to race a motorcycle and as the lights started to change their engines reaching a higher pitch and zoom they're off.
What seemed to be a questionable outcome was backed by my eyewitness account, but the snow mobile blasted by the motorcycle and won by a huge margin. It was truly one of the fastest vehicles I seen in a long time. It was a wow moment for me at that time. If I didn't see what I saw I would have thought the bike would win -no contest.

Cars were lined up and are going down the track every 15 seconds or so like fighter planes exiting a carrier. Right before each trial or race the cars would spin their tires and a mass of smoke would pour from underneath and behind them. It was fun seeing a dragster go up against a muscle car during the trials. You were able to see the different speeds and power when mix matched racing machines were on the track .

When the races did start and the cars were in their proper divisions it was on. The top dragsters were the first to compete and the noise these monsters made was incredible. Thunder roared down the track and the speed that accompanied these rockets on wheels was exciting. Top dragsters were clearing the track under 7 1/2 seconds and speeds close to 200 mph compared to the top pro stock cars which was faintly over 10 seconds and 125 mph.

It was fun watching the junior dragsters, just as colorful as the big boys, these little vehicles barely making a sound louder than a lawnmower and raced down the track at an average of 70 mph. What a sense of speed and power when a variety of fast cars and motorcycles blasted down the track. Speed and power was on display all morning and when I saw one of the top dragster clock in at 196 mph you knew it once it left the starting line. It was a blur before you could focus on it.

One of the fastest bikes was a white Suzuki which flew by the snow mobile, which I thought was one of the fastest things I saw until it couldn't catch the Suzuki in all the matches I seen between them. Of all the cars the muscle cars were my favorite to watch. The Novas, Mustangs, Chargers, Firebirds, Camaros and Chevelles put me at my childhood days. Watching these cars muscle their way down the track was special. A beautiful rainbow colored Chevelle which rattled the bleachers was on the track. It must have arrived late because I didn't see it earlier in the rotation. It was very loud and colorful and when it left the starting line it was at the finish line- it clocked 205 mph and 6.95 seconds. That's fast! It had a speed faster than the dragsters- Imagine that! Lebanon Valley Speedway is a place to see some of the most beautiful, most powerful and fastest cars, bikes and snow mobile?

To see the excitement find clarkshots.com on face book.

Supporting the Troupe

2009-06-17T09:12:00.028-04:00

I've returned to Zitoune Restaurant in Mamaroneck, NY. My last visit was with the charming Nahida Shiraz, a belly dancer, who performed a beautiful exotic dance that complimented the Moroccan cuisine of the evening. See "Dining with the belly dancers". Tonight Nahida is also performing with Troupe Solstice a couple of days from summer solstice (June 21)what a celestial bliss. The restaurant is filled to capacity as all the tables are taken, standing is the only option. The murmur of the crowd is mingling with the aroma of the culinary cuisine as this low lit room resounds with a majestic multi-culture ambience.The room temperature is rising by every minute of anticipation waiting for the dancer's performance. Tonight also happens to be special night the owner Alain is celebrating his birthday with his family.

Tara, one of the first solo dancers, parades on to the floor with her elegant blue veil to compliment her beautiful blue garment and gorgeous choker. The room cheers and applauds her exotic strut. Her movements are rhythmic as she swings and sways her veil around her head and body. Tara's dance is hypnotic as her veil grazes her skin and she gracefully wraps the veil around her entire body just revealing her eyes during her mystic dance. What a very exciting start to the troupe's performance. To begin with such a lovely woman and skilled moves as she used her veil in a beautiful dance.

The next group of four ladies from Troupe Solstice dressed in black and red seduced us with a serenade with their bodies as they slowly danced in unison waving their elegant arms and gyrating hips. Their exotic shimmies were received with yells and cheers from the crowd. They ended their performance the same as it begun with a very slow sway as their hands moved in a praying motion in front of their bodies. The performances by Troupe Solstice was exquisite till this point and there's still such much more to come.

Janea was the next soloist, her arousing dance and sexuality persona was captivating. She like the others before her teasing the crowd with her body as she posed, she stuck her hand out looking for a suitor to join her in her escapade. She too heard cheers and whistles as she entertained us with a routine that was intense and stimulating. Her alluring body and enticing dance was creating an euphoria in the room.

Troupe Solstice walked 3 more lovely ladies dressed in black with red roses. The energy never stopped and was building especially after the beautiful Janea left the floor. Black elaborate fans were revealed as the dancer's dance resembling a samba or rumba as a more up tempo music beat was being played. These lovely ladies were putting on a show and the black fans they used to compliment the dance was brilliant.

Nalani was now on the floor. Her movements swift and silky smooth. Her braided hair was twirling around as her movements were fast and stunning. She moved her head, arms, hands, hips and feet with such a smooth motion you knew her body energy, soul and passion were unified and there was no question she was at peace and enjoying herself as she gave that same love to us through her dance. We were watching greatness and Troupe Solstice put it out there.

The final dancer was Nahida Shiraz. She was fierce. She stepped out with fire in her soul, love in her heart and temptation in her dance. The crowd applauding and cheering her every movement, and one could not help but see essence. She captivated the crowd with her emotional dance. Sexy and exciting she was. You can tell by her body movement she was making a statement and everyone in the room knew she was the center of the universe at this moment. Troupe Solstice had done a performance that will be talked about for ages. If you have never seen Troupe Solstice please find a way. You'll not be disappointed.

Roar, Rumble and Racing

2009-06-14T22:54:00.020-04:00

Saturday I headed over to the Orange County Fairgrounds Speedway in Middletown, NY. The track is a 5/8 mile dirt oval and was hosting an array of cars representing the Sportsman, Pro-stock, Pure-stock divisions, plus the CRSA 305 sprint cars.
I've arrived early anticipating the large crowd that will encompass the oval and supporting their local race car drivers plus the sprint car fan base. Getting there early had an advantage because of seating. Basically, you can sit anywhere- Grandstand, covered bleachers or uncovered bleachers. I finally ended at the covered bleacher section because it offered the best photo opportunity. The cars did not disappoint with a wide variety of the different big block modified cars and the smaller winged sprint cars. The elaborate designs and colors of some of the cars made outstanding subjects against the gray wet dirt track and the white walls surrounding the turns and pit area. The colors jumped out at you and every car was just as colorful as the next. It was such a shame that once they started the races mud will be splattered all over these magnificent painted racers. The noise that rumbled from these cars reminded me that even though these cars have work of art paintings that's not why they're here. And once the races started the velocity was amazing. Watching a group of eight cars accelerate down the backstretch was intense the noise was booming and deafening, like jets were getting ready to take off, cars were shaking and tapping each other trying to get an advantage before they started the turn which mind you will be in about 5 seconds. Yeah it was intense! The first race had an accident after the first turn in which the car ended up on the back end of the turning arc. No one was injured but the car was mangled. Throughout the rest of the races I wondered how that type of accident didn't occur more frequently.
The excessive speed, the tight turns and surface conditions seemed to be the ideal environment for 100% crashes, but the skill of the driver is what separates disaster to victory.
And this same scenario is what makes car racing fans, seeing cars travelling over 100 mph than slowing down to make turns while the other cars are doing this seems inconceivable.

The most fascinating race was the sprint cars. The reason being is their odd shape. They are smaller cars with this winged roof thing going on and if the big blocks made noise these little guys packed a higher decibel and had a extra slide on the turns. It was great seeing these little cars skim and slide over the muddy surface - a work of beauty. As a big sports guy for all of the people who say that racing isn't a sport , may have never been to a raceway. If you witness what the driver is trying to accomplish at speeds you never sustained more than a minute, you may have a different outlook. I admit I been in a biplane and a Cessna with just a safety strap strapped over me as I cruised through the sky, I dropped a pass, even missed a lay up. But I never been strapped to a rocket with wheels trying to win a race. What I saw today it would take every ounce of concentration and skill just to get me in one of these beasts.

Big Birds Down My Street

2009-06-08T08:40:00.018-04:00

I headed over to Green Chimneys in Patterson, NY. Today was a day dedicated to birds of prey. The theme was With Wings and a Prayer. They were going to release a Red-tailed hawk that was injured by a vehicle a few weeks ago. Green Chimneys, http://www.greenchimneys.org/ , provides treatment programs for children and animal therapy.

This was their 17th annual event held and it brought in an innumerable amount of people to see over 100 birds. Not just any ordinary birds - the most fearsome birds that fly the sky. Falconers and wildlife rehabiliators displayed some of the most beautiful raptors from all over. Eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls of all sizes and colors were either on falconer's arms or on custom perches. Beside the size of some of these birds their feathers had a wonderful chromaticity to them that I didn't know could exist because I've never been in close proximity of these birds before now. I was touching hawks and owls as if I was petting a family cat or dog. The most noticeable thing on all the birds, especially the owls, were their talons, long and pointed like needles that looked like they could puncture a car tire with ease.

A Barred Owl named Oscar had this round white face with onyx eyes and his feathers were sprinkled and peppered with browns and orange. a falcon named Elvis was white with golden brown feathers a hawk named Prince had red and rustic orange feathers covering his intimidating body. Another owl from his breast to his talons had markings that resembled a tiger. These birds seemed really gentle and peaceful perched on stands. Their intense gaze as they checked us out reminded me of curiosity and wonder. Some birds had hoods on their heads covering their eyes to keep the bird calm, it made their heads look like an insect.

I really enjoyed the falconers flight display. He and his bird would show the crowd a demonstration on how the birds hunt. He would release the bird and it would fly around looking for a place to perch. The falconer would use a lore and spin it around whistle and call it's name and the bird would fly around and swoop down for it's attack. To see different bird tactics was just fascinating. The falcon's approach so much different from the hawk's, but the end result was the same. It's amazing how fast the birds descended on this lore. I don't know how many birds fail to capture their prey on it's first attempt, but I do know if it's prey gets caught escape is futile. A great time and very fascinating experience that's probably why thousands of big bird lovers were there and I can't wait for the 18th annual.

The next time I look into the sky and see the familiar Red-tail hawk hovering over I'll always remember the education and his hunting tactics.

Walking Wethersfield

2009-06-07T07:22:00.009-04:00

My photography group- Dutchess Regional Professional Photographers ( www. drpp-ny.org) had an outing to the Wethersfield Estate and Gardens in Amenia, NY. This is a Georgian style colonial brick residence built by Chauncey Stillman in 1937 was named after his ancestors who had settled in Wethersfield, Connecticut in the late 1600s. Chauncey was the grandson of James Stillman the president of what became Citibank.

The tour consisted of his carriage house, his home and gardens. Mr. Stillman was an avid horse lover and it showed in his carriage house. Many different styles for many occasions Mr. Stillman participated in driving competitions and hunting. Most of the carriage in the collection date from 1850 to 1910.The house is on the highest point of the property with panoramic views of the Berkshires as well as the Catskills. The house features many collections of antiques, paintings and sculptures. They only do a tour of the house a few times a year so being able to view the residence was special. No photos of the carriage house or the residence was permitted.

On more than 10 acres of formal and outer gardens these were wide and plentiful on this vast landscape. There's even a peacock rooming the fields. One particular interesting fountain was "The Naiad", a nymph who presides over fountains, wells, springs and streams. This bronze statue with this odd female figure I guess was the sculptures rendition of one.

The Inner Garden and Water Garden were my favorites places but I really did like the Cupid Fountain below the Peacock Walk. There's stone sculptures through out the property and on the Wilderness Walk you'll find many lined up on the path and a few in the woods.

It was a beautiful day to visit such a fascinating place even driving to Amenia was charming with the open space and countless horse stables that dominated this part of Dutchess County.

To see more of these exquisite photos check them out on my Facebook page - clarkshots.com

Battle of the Ballers

2009-05-31T12:40:00.018-04:00

The Metro Championship, sponsored by the Northeastern Conference Senior Basketball League http://www.necsdasports.org/, was Saturday night at the John W. Dodd Middle School in Freeport, NY. The game was being dubbed many names like the Battle of Armageddon, Clash of the Titans and many other historic battles. Why? The stage was set for the #1 seed Linden Hornets versus the #2 seeded team from White Plains. The Hornets donning their white uniforms were on a court they haven't lost at all year. White Plains in their blue apparel were looking to revenge the only lost they sustained this year coming from this elite Linden team. The gym was packed with supporters on both sides the DJ was pumping out music to add to the anticipation, excitement and of course bragging rights to the victor of this historic game.

White Plains players and coaches were announced first and with every player's name being called the fan base erupted in cheers as the players gathered at half court giving chest bumps and high fives. Then the Linden players and coaches were announced and with such vigor their fans were cheering as both squads were at half court lined up like warriors on the front line waiting to start.

The game had a slow start as both teams were strategizing and implementing their plan of attack. Linden did score the first points and the fans let out a high audible cheer. "Defense (clap clap) Defense (clap clap)" was loud and echoing off the rafters as both supporters used this familiar cheer every time their opponent had the ball. White Plains was in control early and you heard "Let's go White Plains" and "defense (clap clap) ..." competing as their beloved players were doing the same. White Plains was taking over and had a double digit lead. How could this be happening? This gym was the second home of the Hornets and being down wasn't something their supporters were familiar with. As the half was closing Linden did mount a comeback. Linden's defense was attacking and forcing turnovers and their long range shooters were dangerous behind the arc. With the crowd noise and music playing it wasn't easy to see the Hornets were on to something. At the half they were down by a dozen points might of seemed like game over to the untrained fan, but their plan was working. The half time score was Linden 34 White Plains 46.
The second half started and the ballers were battling under the basket. The game was getting intense and physical. Less than 20 minutes from now there would be a team crowned champion and the urgency was at hand. The Hornets were now in their stinging mode and were hitting shots at long range with precision like smart bombs. Their defense was attacking, their fans were shouting and joyous to see their hero arise with it's white suit shining like the champion they knew and loved. The noise level was still at a high pitch and with inspirational songs resounding out of the speakers the game has been elevated to a higher level. At the 12:44 mark the Hornets had erased the double digit lead and were down only by 4. At the time out Linden 53 White Plains 57.

The ballers continued to battle and their game play become more acute . The entire gym is in a rhythmic euphoria and the heat in the gym has risen.The Hornets tie the game at the 6:20 mark both teams at 66. All of sudden the Hornets are back in it. White Plains wasn't having any of that and they started their attack "defense (clap clap).." is bouncing off the walls and all of a sudden there's a slam dunk by White Plains which makes their fans jump out of their seats. White Plains taking the lead and flexing their muscles. Linden doing what it was doing best- catapulting shots from behind the perimeter and nailing them! Crowds are going crazy, time is ticking down. Linden fouls one of White Plains most accurate free throw shooters and BOOM BOOM he drops two buckets with ease. Time becomes a factor and it's on the ballers mind, but they have to finish the battle at hand . Linden ties the game again! Are you kidding me! They are not going down without a fight or for that matter they're looking to win. Under a minute - tied at 86- there's a time out called and the music blares through the speakers, spectators are shouting. The clock is winding down the ballers are displaying some of the fastest responses to situations imaginable. There were 2 turnovers, foul shots made the game seemed to be going double time.

There's a foul! Linden committed a foul against the top free throw shooter of White Plains. He goes to the line with 6 seconds left- Linden 89 White Plains 90. The Hornet fans are shouting at top of their lungs for him to miss. The first shot- BOOM! he drains it. The second shot- a replica of the first. There's a 3 point advantage for White Plains. Linden will have the ball with seconds left. White Plains has been here before ( read Buzzer Beater on this blog) Linden brings the ball down, clock winding down. White Plains fans start to percolate at the edge of the court. There's a penalty against White Plains with 2 seconds left. Linden gets its long range shooters on the court. They know with one blow they can go into overtime and maybe once in for all rid White Plains and become champions. Linden passes the ball in, they have their best 3 pointer shooter with the ball he shoots.. partially blocked- White Plains fans and players rush to the floor in celebration. The court is filled with the White Plains faithful shouting, cheering and yes! Bragging about being number 1. Linden maybe just needed a little more time - who knows? That's why they play the game.

To see the action photos of this game and others of the season go to http://www.clarkshots.com/.

A Wonderful Weekend

2009-05-25T22:05:00.016-04:00

Where do the weekends go? I know I seem to be asking that same question every time at this time.

How did your weekend go?

Did you travel?

Spend it with family?

Have a cookout?

Were you the one that did all of that and some. I hoped you enjoyed it to it's fullest.

I had a wonderful weekend I spent Saturday in Hyde Park, NY at two of my favorite historical sites;

1. Vanderbilt Mansion - I love visiting this beautiful site for a few reasons;

a. It's close and easy to get to.

b. It's free - entrance and parking

c. Has a gorgeous view of the Hudson River.

The mansion itself is breathtaking and the gardens are just beautiful. It was a little too early to see the rose blossoms, but I did catch a few flowers showing off their spectacular colors.

2. Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic site - If you know the area you'll know that FDR's site is a few miles south of Vanderbilt Mansion. It also shares the above bullet points. I love going to library and the rose gardens and walking down the trail path to the Hudson River.

I went to see the World War II exhibition that was going on during the Memorial Day weekend.

The exhibition had numerous military memorabilia both ally and enemy and had military personnel of all branches. Being a former Marine I'm always intrigued with military from the past as well as the future.
I'm also very proud to have served our country and respect and admire the courageous men and women who fought to preserve the rights, freedom and privileges of our great nation. A great shout out to our fellow Americans holding it down now in hostile and non-hostile zones. You are not forgotten!

Sunday was a family cookout in my hometown. It's always a pleasure to share good times with family and friends. I felt like I was caught in a time warp, I saw friends I haven't seen in 20 years - since high school. I'm not even going there. The food was fabulous and abundant with a huge variety of foods besides the tradition cookout/barbecue items.

I was carefully watching what I was eating, but it didn't stop me from over eating. Hey, you get caught up reminiscing of the good old days, comparing generations and before you know it you're on your third plate or so... I'm just saying it could of happen to me it could of happen to anybody.

All kidding aside it was an awesome time being with love ones.

Monday was the winding down period for me. I went to Clarence Fahnstock State Park in Cold Spring, NY. It was a pleasant day and I was walking around Pelton Pond taking in the view of the water and the blissful day. There were scattered people cooking out on the many grills that encompass the pond. A few were fishing or just enjoying the serenity of the last hours of the long weekend.

That's what it seemed like the last hour. The clock is striking twelve and high ho, high ho, back to I work to go.

For all of my facebook buddies you can see this weekend photos there. For my clarkshot faithful, there's a big basketball championship coming this week and you'll want to check out the action shots that I place on the site.

Scenes of Sleepy Hollow

2009-05-21T07:38:00.003-04:00

After work I stopped by my hometown, Sleepy Hollow, to visit family. Yes! The Sleepy Hollow where the legend was born by Washington Irving. I did pass the Old Dutch Church where the tale of that frightful night when Ichabod Crane on his horse, disparately galloping trying to reach the safety of this Old Dutch Church with the evil spirited Headless Horseman breathing down his back... that's another story.

After my family visit I stopped by the Rockefeller State Park (http://www.nysparks.state.ny/) not too far from the Old Dutch Church. The state park has carriage roads that caresses the landscape and are throughout the park. The first thing to notice was the bird songs. The different chirps and whistles echoed through the air. I was on the Sleepy Hollow trail and it came to a pass in the road, to the left was another carriage road, Ash Tree Loop, and to the right was Nature's Way, a path into the woods. I went right, in to the woods. What a difference in scenery, the path narrower the trees had these vines that wrapped around them like huge serpents squeezing the life out of them also the density of the trees blocked the sunlight and birds darting across to tree to tree to see who was in their domain.

My journey wasn't too far in because I've come from work and really wasn't dress for the path, but the carriage roads were a better choice so I turned around and headed back. In the distance a few yards off the path I saw an odd display. With the contrasting light I couldn't figure it out so I had to get closer. Upon investigation it was an animal skeleton hung unnaturally on a small tree as the rest of the bones lay scattered beneath. Shocking! yet I was more curious than shocked. Remember I was in a hamlet which according to legend. "Some say that the place was bewitched by a High German doctor, during the early days of the settlement; others, that an old Indian chief, the prophet or wizard of his tribe, held his powwows there before the country was discovered by Master Hendrick Hudson. Certain it is, the place still continues under the sway of some witching power, that holds a spell over the minds of the good people, causing them to walk in a continual reverie. They are given to all kinds of marvelous beliefs; are subject to trances and visions, and frequently see strange sights, and hear music and voices in the air."(excerpt from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow)
I ventured back onto Sleepy Hollow trail and went up Ash Tree Loop to Overlook trail. Travelling over Overlook all of a sudden this road opens up to a vista in which you can see a lake in the distance. Again, I thought how odd to be in such a dense harsh wooded area a few minutes ago viewing the remains of an unidentified animal and now (TA DA!)I'm in this open grassy field with view of a lake in it's distance. The sky blue, the tress healthy and the grass field reacting magically as the wind tickles it as it passes through. I follow the carriage road down to Swan Lake and take in the tranquillity this part of my trip had to offer. I go back toward the visitors center to view the tremendous blossoms of the flowers in the garden. The fragrance and colors of the flowers were a beautiful way to end the day. I would have to come back another day more prepared to explore this vast park.

To see the photos go to http://www.clarkshots.com/

Snapping the Hudson Valley

2009-05-16T21:37:00.002-04:00

Saturday morning I got up at "zero dark thirty", a Marine Corps slang, actually it was 3:00am to go to my spring landscape workshop. It seemed like the only thing moving at that time was me as my travel through the darkness seemed endless. Being a former Marine, I've done this drill too many times to remember. I had my backpack, boots and instead of a M-16A1 rifle I had my Canon 40D locked and loaded with memory cards.

I'd arrived at my destination - still dark as if the time never moved. I was the first one to arrive and emerged from my car gearing up and waiting to embark on to the trails at Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park around the New Paltz NY area.
When the group did assemble, our instructor, Robert Rodriguez Jr who is an outstanding photographer and very well known throughout the Hudson Valley, was taking us to some of his favorite locations. Please go to Robert's site http://www.robertrodriguezjr.com/ you too will be amazed at his skill behind a camera.

Our first stop was through the West Trapps trailhead to catch the sunrise and beautiful vistas overlooking the Hudson Valley. The ascend was more like mountain climbing a very steep incline which pointed straight up.
It's an enchanting feeling reaching the summit waiting for Mother Nature to wake up. The sun barely rising over one of the mountain ridges and breaking through the clouds seemed majestic. I'm situated at the ridge taking photos of the slow moving sun. Most of the group is separated and finding viewing areas to prop up their tripods and record this morning ritual. The funny thing about watching the sun rise is when it breaks the clouds there is this intense light and being as high up as we were it seemed liked afternoon was upon us in minutes.
The view was more amazing because there was a lethargic fog hovering the valley as though it was sun bathing because there was no sign of a wind to thrust the fog along the valley.

Once the sun was high we jockeyed around the cliff edges catching the light as it danced between the rocks and trees. The day seemed to be a good day, especially when hours ago the weather was supposed to cloudy with thunderstorms in the afternoon. Maybe I was counting my chickens before they hatched. The day is just beginning and for most are still asleep. The time is just barely 6am. Besides us the bugs seemed to be the only creatures up. This early in the spring was a surprise to some of the group to be visited by so many gnats and other flying annoying insects.

I was prepared, I was the only one who had bug spray, like I said before I did this drill to many times to remember and I was also the only one with ear plugs. But these plugs had an ipod attached to the other end -faintly I could hear my favorite tunes- Yeah it was a good day.

The climb down was just as bold and demanding as the climb up. We are actually going up/down the side of a rock so you couldn't plant your foot in the soil. After descending and going to our next location the parking lot is now packed with mountain climbers who will be ascending up. My thought as I looked at the many with ropes, helmets and other accessory was "You guys are too late we already climb the mountain and we only had cameras and tripods". I wondered what their thoughts were?

The next stop was down the road a bit and wasn't any way demanding as the previous. Split rock was the named I heard, again it was hard hearing with earplugs inserted and listening to tunes. No way was I being belligerent, but it was the best way to keep the bugs from invading my ears. This was effective and the group was glad I had bug spray also. But bugs come in the thousands or millions and it seemed like millions after they got immunised to the spray.

The area was small and flat. A large field that had a small bridge and a small stream that raced over the rocks into a small pond. The feature was this little waterfall going down the center of the rock, hence Split Rock.

Robert was giving us tips here as well as before but he wanted us to focus on other stuff around us besides this sprinting stream. I was more inclined to work on my water technique but he did make sense and it did give me more to look at and shoot than the obvious.

His visual technique at looking beyond the lens was important and it did make me think about shadows and light and how they interact with scenes.
Our last stop was at the Minnewaska Falls. This location was quite some ways so we travelled by car to get there. As we made our way to the falls the weather started to get cloudy and windy. As we set up again and started to jockey for places to shoot the clouds rolled in and dropped a smidgen of rain but we were at the base of a waterfall and the wind picked up the mist and blew it in all directions. So it was hard to get a clear picture for 15 minutes or so because your lens would get water droplets on it causing spots to appear on the final image. But once it stopped we did manage to get some shots off.

After the shooting we went back to Robert's workshop to discuss our experiences, and looked at our photos. Robert was giving instructions on Adobe's Lightroom and showing us his best techniques. To see more photos of my adventure go to http://www.clarkshots.com/ and look for the Mohonk gallery. You can also find me on facebook.

Coney Island Cruises past Flatbush

2009-05-10T18:20:00.003-04:00

The Northeastern Conference Senior Basketball League (http://www.necsdaports.org/) Had their 2nd round playoff games in Brooklyn. I was ready and anticipating great games.

Upon arriving, the gym lights had a orange color cast which was noticeable in the open gym. This isn't something to bring up but 2 of the 4 teams are in orange uniforms -50%. Again, you may not see any reason to make this statement because for us, you, me, (humans) our eyes can adjust to this little annoyance but my trusted camera is going to need therapy come Sunday. White balance is a key to good photography, anyway onto the game. Thank goodness the two orange teams were not playing against each other.

Game 1: Coney Island vs. Flatbush

Coney Island was dominating early and showing signs of a top team. Flatbush wasn't too shabby, but they couldn't match up as well as they wanted. Flatbush had some fight and was battling hard but you can sense that Coney Island wasn't too worried and kept Flatbush at a distance.

Flatbush seem to shine every once in awhile but the accurate shooting and team play by Coney Island made sure that Flatbush stayed flat, no pun intended, but hey that's what it seem liked. Flatbush wasn't flat but the commanding play by Coney Island was more sound. Coney was leading at the break and didn't look back when the 2nd half started.

Coney Island cruised past Flatbush with ease and makes it to another round. As teams advance into the playoffs their matches should become harder so looking ahead if White Plains wins then they will be Coney Island's next game- may be harder than ease. And if they happen to win that game the next round Bronx or Linden may be a harder game- Who knows only time will tell.

To see the action photos go to http://www.clarkshots.com/

White Plains Dunks GNYC Ebenezer

2009-05-10T17:44:00.003-04:00

White Plains(blue) GNYC Ebenezer(orange)

Game 2 of the 2nd round of the Northeaster Conference Senior Basketball League (http://www.necsdasports.org/) put White Plains vs GNYC Ebenezer in another win or go home match up.

White Plains came in the game ready and focused they knew they had to because a week ago they had a game to remember. see Buzzer Beater on this blog.

White Plains came out strong against GNYC Ebenezer making a large percentage of their shots, especially at the 3 point range. GNYC Ebenezer wasn't going out without a fight. They displayed team speed and accurate shooting, They played with pride and determination, but couldn't control the board, offense or defense and could not climb out of the hole as they fell behind.

White Plains was demonstrating why they are one of the top teams in the league. Early in the second half White Plains made a fabulous slam dunk that erupted with loud cheers from both fan bases. This seemed to start some tomfoolery and lack of focus. The White Plains coach was barking "Play Defense" and after a strong dunk by White Plains, which caused a technical foul, the coach was barking "Lay-ups" the team continued to slam dunk and made three consecutive after the technical was called.

White Plains may fight another day and they seem to be on a crash course with Linden who was to only team up to now to put a 1 in their losing column. See Linden Hornets STING White Plains on this blog.

For action photos go to http://www.clarkshots.com/

Buzzer Beater

2009-05-03T14:22:00.006-04:00

The Northeastern Conference Senior Basketball League (http://www.necsdasports.org/) kicked off its 2009 playoff games. I was at the Kennedy Center for this doubleheader that featured White Plains #2 seed vs Ephesus #15 seed in game 1 and Bronx Hawks #5 seed vs Mt. Sinai #12 seed in game 2.

Game 1 - White Plains vs Ephesus

These two met just a few weeks ago and Ephesus gave White Plains a battle to remember, but could this David beat Goliath in the first round. Ephesus like their previous match was up for the challenge and was matching bucket to bucket in the early part of the game. No matter what White Plains did their adversary was on point and withstanding White Plains game plan. The crowd could feel the power start to shift but the half was closing fast and White Plains was leading, but you had a sense that the lead was temporary.

The second half began with high intensity and relentless game plan by Ephesus. They not only tied the game but took the lead early. Their bench was on their feet, their supporters were cheering loud and proud. White Plains was breaking and getting frustrated as Ephesus now hitting them with everything they had.

The momentum had shifted and Ephesus was feeling good, why not? They knew that the last time they played this undefeated team from the north they had victory slip from them and they were not about to let it happen again. White Plains a little frustrated soon took back the lead and made their presence known. Just like that! Ephesus pushed and the score was tied 70 to 70 under the 2 minute mark. Ephesus erupted with the loudest of cheers when time out was called by White Plains. White Plains jumped up by 2 and Ephesus answered quickly and now tied at 72 to 72 under 40 seconds and Ephesus had the ball.

(Ephesus in black/red, White Plains in blue/white)

They had the ball- Ephesus and control of the clock, they had their supporters cheering and now a chance to bring down their foe. They dribbled the ball back and forth, tic...tic... the clock winding down, looking for a shooter to make the last shot. tic...tic.. the time quickly evaporating. Ephesus clearly setting up for the last shot and looking to exile it's enemy. TIC..TIC.. defenders swoop in.. Oh NO!! the ball is turned over White Plains has the ball and driving to the hole.. TIC..TIC.. White Plains puts up a layup BUZZER SOUNDING!!! The game is..Pandemonium the White Plains fan base is on the court with their beloved team. White Plains the victor. Ephesus exiled, emotionally empty. The floor is flooded with White Plains celebration and victory hugs and high fives.

Check out all the photos of this memorable game and other games at http://www.clarkshots.com/

Dining with bellydancers

2009-05-02T10:49:00.002-04:00

Last night at Zitoune Restaurant in Mamaroneck-NY, I had the greatest pleasure to be seated at a table with beautiful women. They all came out to support Nahida Shiraz who was the star dancer for the evening.

Nahida Shiraz did not disappoint, as she seduced the audience with her spirited entrance. But that was just an appetizer for what she planned for the main course.

Her path to the stage was a brief walk, maybe a couple of steps she stops and lifts her arms to display her winged garment like a proud peacock perched looking for a suitor. I know the males are the ones with the features but not here - not tonight.

Nahida was captivating.

As the sound of the drums echoed within the restaurant and Nahida was at center stage - the main course was about to be served. Her beloved group of fellow bellydancers cheered and shouted as did others who witness her provocative and enticing dance.

Her movements effortless, her dance elegant with essence that showered the audience with many flavors that our bodies, minds, and souls would savor and be fulfilled.

The night was truly hers and she shared her passion with us and my dinning from what I tasted and what I seen last night will be one of the best cuisine I ever had.

Kaaterskill Falls

2009-04-13T09:35:00.001-04:00

After the brief hike at Pittsfield, MA I found myself back in New York heading towards Albany on I90. I didn't want to go to Albany so I took a left onto I87 and heading south. I ventured over to Catskill and Hunter Mountain. Since the theme was Holiday Hiking I figured I contiue my quest and hike up Kaaterskill Falls.

The sunny blue sky made for a pleasant hike. And the little water falls at the start of the hike made it exciting to push on and see the Kaaterskill Falls. (pictured here). Unlike the hike up Pittsfield the warning signs were put out in the begining of the hike. The sign read:

Hazardous Gorge Area

Sheer Cliffs

Swift Water

Slippery Footing

Trust me this trail was all that and some, yet it was a somewhat easy climb to the falls. You can check out my Holiday Hiking photos at www.flickr.com/photos/cthompson2

Pittsfield State Forest

2009-04-13T09:30:00.002-04:00

Over the Easter holiday I went to one of my bordering states, Massachusetts, I know- why there? I could of went to Connecticut, New Jersey or Pennsylvania. Massachusetts has numerous state parks (they call them forests) and Pittsfield was a reasonable distance.

When I got there I took the Honwee Circuit Trail which was battered by fallen trees so the incline up the trail was more acrobatic than planned, especially carrying a backpack, camera and walking stick.

The weather didn’t know what to do either, it was sunny, cloudy and did I mention a brief snow flurry. Anyway the sun did prevail and after hopping over and ducking under the massive tree trunks the return trip I used the road.

Not a bad trip, but a bit too early in the season, nature was still in winter mode no flowers blossoms, no new leaves or interesting insects. You can view the stills on www.flickr.com/photos/cthompson2

Linden Hornets STING White Plains

2009-04-07T21:12:00.004-04:00

Northeastern Conference Basketball League had a battle of the league’s elite men’s basketball teams, as Linden came into the Kennedy gym and upended the undefeated team from White Plains.

The gym was crowed as the fan base from both teams showed their support and cheered enthusiastic throughout the game.

But as the final buzzer sounded it was Linden with the victory and on top as White Plains fell into second place.

To see the action visit http://www.clarkshots.com/

The playoffs are in a few weeks will either team rise to claim the championship.