AMANDA SCHWENGEL

paris meanderings

2012-01-23T12:54:00.000-08:00

A few photos from an impromptu trip to Paris the last couple days. More to come!

the moon never sleeps

2012-01-11T06:32:00.001-08:00

The moon always seems to be up at odd hours in France... here it is, spotted at 8:30 in the morning today.

christmas in austria

2012-01-11T04:06:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure to spend a week celebrating the holidays in Austria with old friends and new. They even light the candles on their Christmas trees like my great-grandparents did! Spent Christmas day at a natural hot spring in the mountains... good way to balance out all of the Austrian cuisine!

scenes from paris

2012-01-11T04:01:00.000-08:00

en route to amsterdam

2012-01-11T03:59:00.001-08:00

fairytale land

2012-01-11T03:56:00.002-08:00

Bruges, Belgium, is like stepping into a fairytale land; complete with candy cane lamp posts and singing elves and iced gingerbread pavement. Okay, not really, but it certainly looks like one!

out and about

2012-01-11T03:56:00.000-08:00

Scenes about town from a recent stroll.

looking up

2012-01-11T03:54:00.001-08:00

dancing in pas de calais

2012-01-11T03:53:00.000-08:00

I attended a regional dance event in November and got back into newspaper shooter mode...

secret caves

2011-11-11T05:13:00.000-08:00

Did you know that during World War I, over 25,000 British soldiers hid underground in a labyrinth of secret caves under the city of Arras, France?

About 60 feet underground, 25,000 Allied soldiers hid for eight days before the Battle of Arras in 1917. Originally the caves were medieval chalk quarries. There are about 12 miles of tunnels, and with these tunnels, soldiers were able to advance on the Germans.

And back above ground again...

a rainbow in paris

2011-11-07T09:14:00.001-08:00

Parisian family out for a Sunday stroll.

juxtapose with me

2011-10-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

next of kin

2011-10-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

face off

2011-10-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

vive la france!

2011-10-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

Nothing better than wine served at lunch. At school. Only the French!

foto fun

2011-09-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

I am in New York. I adore New York.
The first few photos are from an opening reception of the work of contemporary Japanese textile artists, and the last, a few furry friends.

sam and drew

2011-09-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to travel to Ohio last week to help shoot the wedding of newlyweds Sam and Drew. Here are a few favorites!

And the baby darling of the family...

last assignment

2011-09-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

I photographed my last assignment for the Northwest Herald with fellow photographer Lauren Anderson on a hot and humid day last week. The Bears took on the Cleveland Browns in a preseason match up that enlisted many second and third string players but nonetheless was still an entertaining game to shoot. Its been a great run in Chicago, and now on to the next adventure!

Chicago's Brian Urhlacher and Julius Peppers wait to run onto the field at the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, at Soldier Field in Chicago.

siblings

2011-09-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

These are my siblings, Jennifer and Eric. They clean up pretty nice!

canoeing down the nippersink

2011-08-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

An end of summer feature.
Jessica Carlson and Jon Stiegleiter, of McHenry, canoe in the Nippersink Creek in Richmond on Saturday, Aug. 20. The duo, were waiting for six others in their group, to catch up with them.

Here's a view from my seat. Rough day at work.

building an airplane

2011-08-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

"It just takes some glue, a good saw, and some wood," Brad Delisle says of building his own personal airplane, and Delisle is making it happen with his father Mike in the basement of their Lakewood home. I had the pleasure of hanging out with them while they worked on their 1929 wooden Pietenpol Aircamper that will travel 60 miles per hour once finished and be covered in fabric. Amazing!

that time of year

2011-08-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

Fall sports season is back in action, and so are the mascots.

back to school

2011-08-25T14:45:00.001-07:00

I got to hang out with Katrina, 11, an aspiring writer and musician going into sixth-grade, and Maya, 5, who will be attending kindergarten and wants to be a teacher when she grows up. The challenging part was shooting video and linking these two strangers together into one cohesive piece. I think it all came together; here is what they are looking forward to this coming school year.

Katrina Troy, 11, prepares to play a tune on her guitar at her family's home in Lake in the HIlls. Troy will be attending the sixth-grade at Marlowe Middle School and is looking forward to band, choir, art and cooking class. "I already have my backpack packed and ready to go," Troy said of going back to school.

Maya Tierney, 5, laughs as her mother Seija Tierney reads a book with her at their home in Algonquin. Maya will be attending kindergarten at Algonquin Lakes Elementary School and wants to be a teacher when she grows up.

plans to run again

2011-08-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

McHenry County State’s Attorney Lou Bianchi smiles with wife Jean before taking the podium at his fundraiser dinner Thursday evening at Boulder Ridge Country Club in Lake in the Hills to announce his plans for re-election.

a smattering of summer scenes

2011-08-09T11:04:00.001-07:00

Summer varies from culture to climate, but in northern Illinois and throughout America similar classic scenes can be seen year after year. A county fair, an afternoon baseball game, an outdoor ice cream stand. Though these photos may not be mind-blowing, to me they represent Americana and are timeless; the year could be 1950 or 2011.

A look at the County Fair Pageant contest.

I love the stance of this Japanese pitcher! It looks like art! Japan's Masato Hagiwara pitches against Victory Illinois in the game Saturday at Lippold Park.

the king and his court

2011-08-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

I recently crossed paths with the Harlem Globetrotters of the softball world: The King and His Court. This four man team has played in over 104 countries and includes a pitcher, catcher, first baseman and shortstop. The tradition began in 1946 after a former Marine came home from the war and continued playing softball and taking on challengers. The current 4 King and His Court players took on the Tidal Waves, an all girl team in the area, before a massive summer storm rolled in.

100 years young

2011-08-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

In 1911, Machu Picchu was discovered, the average price of a home was $4,800, Niagra Falls froze over, Taft was president, and Eleanor Thompson was born. The Huntley resident celebrated her 100th birthday with friends and family in late July, and I also made a short video of the milestone event.

wild weather and other sights

2011-07-09T19:31:00.003-07:00

Crazy clouds as seen from our back porch Friday, July 1.

The evening before, a golf-ball size hail storm.

The last day of June, Millenium Park.

This city never gets old.

Cat on a hanger. Duh.

the big leagues (+ jq)

2011-07-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

Little league, big league, we do it all. I was also impressed by these players' skill and poise and shot day two of the Cross Town Classic between the Chicago Cubs and White Sox. Sox won 1-0. I almost got nailed by a fast foul ball but hit the deck fast, so I am glad I am here to write and post this all.

Marion Byrd, left, and Alfonso Soriano pretend to box Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field before the start of the game.

The Cub's Matt Garza pitches against the White Sox.

The White Sox's Philip Humber pitches against the Cubs.

The White Sox's Gordon Beckham leaps over the Cubs Marion Byrd in the second inning Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field. Byrd was tagged out.

Chicago Cubs manager Mike Quade argues with second base umpire Paul Emmel in the second inning over a call on Marion Byrd. Quade was ejected from the game.

Hello, Carlos Pena!

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler takes in the game with fiance Kristin Cavallari.

Chicago's Starlin Castro smiles after making a catch in the fifth inning.

The White Sox's Juan Pierre hits a single in the sixth inning against the Cubs Saturday, leading to Gordon Beckham scoring the first and only run.

The White Sox's Alex Rios makes a catch in the seventh inning.

A fan catches a ball from the game during the eighth inning and is quite happy about it.

The White Sox's Paul Konerko makes a catch in the final play of the game against the Cubs Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field.

And saving the best for last, I look down the dugout from me and who is sitting right by me but my favorite actor John Cusack. Ha cha cha! Twice in one lifetime! (Which my friend Kamala says would be a great title for a romance novel.) http://amandaschwengel.blogspot.com/2010/11/john-cusack-uses-my-camera.html

the little leagues

2011-07-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

Little league season is well under way and I was impressed by the poise and skill of these 7 and 8-year old players.

summer news

2011-07-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and here are some recent assignments.

A recent garage fire...

The tilty whirly flippy ride found at most festivals...

The ever perennial summer festival scene. I am not sure if this photo quite works but I like it regardless.

A youngster conducts along with a city band.

summer time

2011-06-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

a trip to utah for the kichas couple

2011-06-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

A recent trip took me to Utah for the wedding of an old and new friend. The newlyweds, Sarah and Jim!

The Spiral Jetty in the Great Salt Lake.

And of course no trip is complete without a jumping photo.

a few sportraits

2011-06-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

With the school year over and prep sports at a close, we like to highlight each sport's best of the best. I photographed the boys track athlete of the year, as well as the girls softball player of the year, of which we had two.

Plus, here are a few other variations. Thank you Minnesota Daily for the sportrait experience!

here and there

2011-06-14T13:52:00.001-07:00

pow! superhero party.

2011-06-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

Oh, to be six years old again. For our favorite nephew Payton, my best friends and I helped out at his action packed superhero themed birthday party with 17 other six years old.

Breaking the Joker pinata was pretty intense...

Preparing for an obstacle course.

Tackling the obstacle course.

Pensive Batman. Or tired...

other daily grind work

2011-06-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

Its been nice to be outside shooting these last few weeks. Here are a smattering of photos on what I've been up to.
For a story on summer outdoor activities; families take part in a Night Hike through Hickory Grove Highlands in Cary.

Phlox are spotted along the hike. The flowers, best grown in well-drained soil, and exposed to partial shade to partial sun, are valued for their ability to attract butterflies.

Education Program Assistant Lyn Drathering explains a goldenrod gall to children during the hike.

Woodstock High School's Kayla Beattie works out before her sectional race on the track at Woodstock High School. Woodstock’s Kayla Beattie is the fastest girl in Illinois history – in two events. Beattie became the first girls runner to break 10 minutes in the 3,200-meter run as she finished in 9:56.96 in the Class 2A race at the IHSA Girls Track and Field State Meet at Eastern Illinois University. Shortly after, Beattie broke another state record to win the 1,600 in 4:43.65.

Olga Garcia smiles after losing a game of Connect Four to Little Sister Brenda at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County pizza party marking the success of the program at Prairie Hill School in Cary.

Though not the greatest photo, I think this is priceless! I don't think these boys would be caught doing this in another five years.
Second-grade students perform during the musical production of “Anything Can Happen in a Fairytale” at Mackeben Elementary School in Algonquin. The musical tied in with the second-grade fairytale curriculum unit and included fairytales including Cinderella, Snow White, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel.

Phil Bucaro tills soil at a plot in property in McHenry. Bucaro has been gardening for years and grows everything from tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, green beans, red peppers and more.

Here is a short video of Phil, with some tips for the novice gardener.

This was too cute not to post...
Karly Duber, 4, participates in the Harvard Youth Parade on Thursday evening downtown Harvard. The Annual Milk Days festival kicks off today and runs through Sunday.

Air Force Tech Sgt. Kevin Keyfauver mingles with friends and family at his homecoming celebration Friday evening at the McHenry VFW. Keyfauver returned home from a 180 day deployment to Afghanistan.

Covering this made for a rather bizarre Sunday afternoon shift...
The Smith home in the 4300 Block of Doty Road near Woodstock is taped off Sunday morning. Kurt Milliman, 48, of Prairie Grove, died Sunday after was discovered inside the residence with a gunshot wound. Timothy Smith, 26, and Kimberly Smith, 28, were arrested. Timothy S. Smith, 26, was charged with first-degree murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm, pandering, obstructing justice and pimping. His wife, Kimberly A. (Holian) Smith, 28, was charged with two counts of obstructing justice, disorderly conduct and prostitution.

the many classes of 2011

2011-06-07T17:17:00.000-07:00

Graduation season has come and gone and I covered a whopping 6 commencement ceremonies. I heard many inspirational speeches and one that even led by quoting Tim McGraw. Hmm. Surprisingly, only one ceremony was held outside. Here are some favorites from the graduates of 2011.

trip to the second homeland

2011-06-07T17:15:00.000-07:00

spring is HERE.

2011-06-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

Spring was in the air a few weeks ago with these lovebird sightings. Now on to summer!

bulls vs. miami: round 3

2011-05-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

The Bulls continued on to Round 3 in the NBA playoffs and I shot Game 1. I love shooting basketball! I love shooting the Bulls. I also spotted the former Mayor Richard Daley with wife Maggie watching the game in his final few hours as mayor of Chicago.

Chicago's Taj Gibson reacts in the final minutes of the game against Miami in the NBA playoff Round 3 game May 15 at the United Center. The Bulls defeated the Heat 103-82.

Miami's Mike Bibby tries to drive past Chicago's Derrick Rose.

Chicago's Taj Gibson looks to pass against Miami's Joel Anthony.

Chicago's Derrick Rose is fouled by Miami's Joel Anthony in the second half of the NBA playoff Round 3 game on Sunday at the United Center. Rose had a total of 28 points.

Chicago's Ronnie Brewer shoots a free throw after a clear path foul is called against Miami in the second half of the game.

Chicago's Kyle Korver fights for the ball against Miami's Dwyane Wade in the second half of the NBA playoff Round 3 game.

Miami's LeBron James puts up a shot.

The Miami Heat watch the final few minutes of the game.

And the final product the next day:

la buena vida

2011-05-16T22:05:00.001-07:00

A quick weekend trip to warm weather, sun, sand and the ocean.

bulls vs. hawks: round 2

2011-05-16T22:03:00.001-07:00

Bulls play the Atlanta Hawks in Round 2 of the NBA playoffs.
Benny the Bull waves a flag before the start of the game Monday night against the Atlanta Hawks at the United Center.

Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, right, holds the Red Auerbach Trophy after being named NBA basketball Coach of the Year before the start of the Bulls game Monday night.

Chicago's Carlos Boozer and Atlanta's Jeff Teague fight for the ball in the first half of the game Monday at the United Center. The Hawks defeated the Bulls 103-95.

Atlanta's Jeff Teague tries to pass through Joakim Noah and Derrick Rose in the first half of the game Monday at the United Center.

Chicago Blackhawks Patrick Kane take part in time out festivities.

Chicago's Joakim Noah fights for the ball against Atlanta's Jeff Teague.

Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau is called for a technical foul in the first half.

Atlanta's Jeff Teague puts up a layup against Chicago's Derrick Rose.

Chicago's Carlos Boozer puts up a one-handed dunk in the second half.

cello man

2011-05-16T21:22:00.000-07:00

I spotted this cellist on his way to the same place I was downtown Chicago a few weeks ago. If you have never checked out the Chicago Symphony Orchestra I highly recommend it.

babies!

2011-05-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from some cuties just recently.

the many faces of noah

2011-05-13T16:46:00.001-07:00

Chicago Bulls Joakim Noah is a very expressive player and fun to shoot. Here are some of his many faces at the game against the Indiana Pacers on April 26.

bulls vs. pacers: round 1

2011-05-13T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Bulls are rockin' it and I was at the game April 26 against the Indiana Pacers. Here are some of my picks from the night.

The Bulls' Joakim Noah waits for his name to be called before the start of the game.

Chicago's Taj Gibson attempts to get past Indiana's Roy Hibbert.

Chicago's Derrick Rose flys past Indiana's defense in the first half of the game Tuesday at the United Center.

Chicago's Omer Asik fights for the ball in the second half Tuesday at the United Center. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 116-89.

Chicago's Joakim Noah, left, and Taj Gibson celebrate after Indiana's Josh McRoberts is ejected from the game in the third quarter.

Chicago Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel cheers on the Chicago Bulls from courtside seats.

Chicago's Joakim Noah puts up a layup against Indiana's Paul George, left, and Roy Hibbert.

Chicago's Joakim Noah pumps up the crowd in the second half.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson is spotted in the crowd.

This is my vantage point. Hello Taj Gibson!

awards!

2011-05-07T20:36:00.000-07:00

I recently won first place in the Pro-48 Hours division and third place Multimedia Shooter of the Year in the Illinois Press Photographers Association Best of Multimedia annual competition. I am very excited about this. Here are some of the pieces I entered (this makes up for all the internships that said I needed more multimedia experience!!!):
http://ippaonline.com/ippa2/?p=1739

Elvis Tribute Artist: http://vimeo.com/20944862

Farmer Clare: http://vimeo.com/20944676

Aikido Instructor: http://vimeo.com/20945001

Balloonist Bill: http://vimeo.com/20945111

Gospel Director, yet to come, as well as a few others up my sleeve.

I also won third place in the Associated Press competition for this short on beekeeping:
http://vimeo.com/13376600
Fun!

mad hatters

2011-05-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

I decided to have a little fun on an assignment to a luncheon to benefit the Centegra Gavers Breast Center. The annual spring Centegra Mad Hatters luncheon was held Wednesday with over 500 hundred women in fabulous hats. Here are some favorites.

Here is how it ran in the paper:

seasonal spring subjects

2011-05-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Spring has finally decided to arrive in Chicago and with it comes the usual seasonal subjects to photograph. I like that about working for a newspaper- I get to take part in a little bit of everything that is going on.

Looking for a different way to relax?
Mark Placzkowski of Sound Current Meditation prepares to lead the Gong Bath, which consists of specially sounded gong rhythms to assist meditation and relaxation Friday evening at Family Alliance in Woodstock.

The Easter bunny waits for visitors at a Saturday morning egg hunt.

The season of 5Ks!

Loll Jean Philippe, from the mountain village of Despinasse, Haiti, speaks about life in Haiti a year after the earthquake at a fundraiser for the Catholic Assistance Mission, a local nonprofit.

A tour of the DeLong Grain company facility, where I learned that approximately 2.5 million bushels of grain is stored at the Garden Prairie facility, most of which is shipped overseas to Taiwan or Vietnam.

And of course it's prom season.
Prairie Ridge High School senior Steven Willis waits with flowers for girlfriend Celeste Owens to arrive at school Tuesday morning so he can ask her to prom. Willis and friends worked together about six hours to decorate a 40 foot long sign they hung up in front of the school, along with balloons.

"She's not like every other girl, she's not a typical drama girl. She's laid-back, and that's what I like," Willis said about Owens. Owens said yes to attending prom with Willis.

And a short video feature on Willis getting ready to pop the prom question:

remembering an awesome friend

2011-04-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a painting I sketched out in August of 2008 when Nate and Elena came for a visit to Chicago fresh off their honeymoon from the north. This stopover included many swims at Foster Avenue beach, delicious meals cooked by Nate, various variations on Uno, a trip to the free Stained Glass Museum at Navy Pier, and many other good times.

And here is Elena taking off on the memorial bike ride for Nate and Nick in Cedarburg April 25, 2011.

photos from wandering around

2011-04-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos taken on a day off last week, just for kicks.

bulls 97, suns 94

2011-04-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Exciting times for the No. 1 seed Chicago Bulls heading into the playoffs! I photographed their 3 point win over the Suns last week. I can only hope I get to cover a playoff game, what with homecourt advantage and all... definitely a career highlight for this basketball fan.

Chicago's Taj Gibson puts up a shot against Phoenix's Hakim Warrick in the second half of the game on Tuesday at the United Center in Chicago.

Phoenix's Steve Nash splits the defense in the first half.

Chicago's Derrick Rose eyes up the competition.

Chicago's Luol Deng goes up for a shot as Phoenix's Josh Childress attempts a block in the second half of the game on Tuesday at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls defeated the Suns 97-94.

Chicago's Carlos Boozer looks to pass.

Young fans cheer on their team.

Halftime entertainment!

Another shot for those Pippen fans out there.

The Bulls re-group.

scottie pippen!

2011-04-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

I shot the Chicago Bulls game Tuesday night against the Phoenix Suns. I was just leaving the floor at halftime to edit and I turn around and there is Scottie Pippen! More photos to follow here soon, but in the meantime check out more photos here: http://ssm.nwherald.com/photos/3641/bulls-97-suns-94/

spring sports!

2011-04-07T17:07:00.001-07:00

April. Spring sports time!

And an ominous looking sky for good measure...

the beginning of baseball and softball season

2011-04-04T13:55:00.001-07:00

Here are some baseball photos from a game last Monday.
Richmond-Burton's Casey Williams is safe at second as Grant's Brent Spohr goes for the catch Monday afternoon at Grant High School in Fox Lake. The Rockets defeated the Bulldogs 14-3.

Richmond-Burton's Matt Malecki is congratulated by his team after scoring a home run.

beantown and oh canada

2011-04-04T13:49:00.000-07:00

Took a spring break trip to Boston and Montreal a few weeks ago. Here are some favorites from the week away with fabulous friends!

Portrait of Kamala.

Sophie.

Carriage horse with tiny hat in Old Montreal.

Montreal from afar.

On to Boston. Freedom trail!

Boston Commons on a sunny Friday.

An altercation in Boston Commons including a possible knife. Spot news!

Secret alley way.

hip hop

2011-04-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to photograph a release party hip hop show on the south side of Chicago late one Wednesday evening with fellow photographer Emily Grimes. http://www.emilygrimes.com/
I am most interested in exploring the subculture within the hip hop realm the night of the event... hopefully more will follow on this idea in the future. Enjoy!

fruit dance

2011-04-03T23:13:00.000-07:00

A photo shoot involving dance, music and produce in a secret location in Chicago. Details to follow, summer 2011!

product of a short attention span

2011-04-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

These colors and lines on a ceiling caught my eye when I was at a floral shop recently.

bar mitzvah

2011-04-03T22:28:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of photographing and attending my first bar mitzvah at the beginning of March. A beautiful ceremony and family! Congratulations David and family, and thanks to Sam, Lauren and Tom. Mazel tov!

home and wares show

2011-04-03T21:44:00.000-07:00

Toilet tattoos. Adult lunchables. Bagel thricers. Yes, you read that right. It doesn't just slice, it gives you a thrice sliced bagel. Apple cookers. Kitty toilet training kits. No mess egg scramblers. The newest Tupperware fashion. The annual International Home and Housewares Show in Chicago has it all, and I got to check it out with 2 fellow reporters last month. It's kind of like a real live Sky Mall catalog.

Here celebrity chefs Ming Tsai and Guy Fieri have a laugh during Fieri's cooking demonstration at the International Home and Housewares Show at McCormick Place.

hawks vs. panthers

2011-04-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Florida Panthers at home in front of a a sellout crowd of 21,713 a few weeks ago. Lucky lucky to get to these games!
Chicago's Tomas Kopecky fights for the puck against Florida's Sergei Samsonov in the first quarter at the United Center March 23.

trojans vs. icemen

2011-04-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

I shot some high school hockey in March. Rockford defeated CG to continue their quest for their 15th consecutive state title.
Rockford celebrates their third goal against Cary-Grove in the Blackhawk Cup Combined State Tournament at the Edge Ice Arena in Bensenville, Ill.

Cary-Grove goalie Andrew Michols blocks a shot by Rockford's Connor Anderson.

basketball winds down

2011-04-01T16:05:00.000-07:00

The end of another high school season of basketball action.

swimmer of the year

2011-04-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

I photographed Cary-Grove sophomore Michael Hamann for the paper's swimmer of the year a few weeks ago. There's always the conundrum of limited time and technical problems that may arise during shoots like these but I think I am starting to enjoy using lights!

Feedback anyone?

curious canines

2011-04-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

These friendly pups were interested in what I was up to at recent assignments.

what I have been up to whilst workin'

2011-03-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Some recent stuff...
Andie, a student at Marengo Community High School, rests in between sit-ups in gym class. This school year was the first for a program called “Career and Transition," at the school, taught by Roger Engwall, which gets special needs students ready to hold jobs and live more independent lives.

Some martial arts...
Instructor Rick Bjorkquist of the Kyukido Martial Arts of Huntley helps student Kayla Valdez stretch Wednesday in a beginning class at Kyukido Martial Arts of Huntley.

A storage unit auction...
Prairie Enterprises, LLC owner Jerry Lindley laughs as he discovers a bag of popcorn in a Highway 20 Self Storage unit off E. Grant Highway in Marengo on Feb. 23. The unit had just been sold off after the previous renter did not pay the rent.

The season of Lent! Of which I am trying to cut back on coffee...
Ashes are marked in the sign of a cross on parishioners' foreheads at St. Mary Catholic Church in Woodstock on Wednesday afternoon. The use of ashes as a sign of penitence comes from Jewish tradition and was carried over into Christianity, with early customs dating back to the fourth century.

Pending prom season...
Olivia Nystrom, left, and Natalie Whalen, both 13, try on dresses at the annual My Sister's Dress event held at McHenry County College on Sunday. The fundraising event for Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County offered an opportunity for young ladies to buy prom dresses for just $20.

jonah

2011-03-01T15:35:00.002-08:00

Sigh... gorgeous light and color. Can't every assignment be like this?
Jonah Slavin, 3, plays on a slide as his mother Karen watches at their home in Woodstock. In December 2010, Jonah was thought to have been on the autism spectrum, but after seeking a second opinion and a change in diet, his behavior has improved dramatically.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 110 children are on the autism spectrum, but estimates range from one in 80 to one in 240.

Jonah Slavin, 3, plays quietly at his home in Woodstock. Before a change in diet and elimination of wheat and gluten, Jonah would scream most of the day and a doctor thought he was to be on the autistic spectrum, his mother Karen Slavin said.

heart awareness month

2011-03-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Get your heart checked.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

• In 2006, 631,636 people died of heart disease. Heart disease caused 26 percent of deaths – more than one in every four – in the United States.

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Half of the deaths due to heart disease in 2006 were women.

• Every year, about 785,000 Americans have a first heart attack. An additional 470,000 who already have had one or more heart attacks have another attack.

From left to right, siblings Deb Mills, Bob Long show heart-shaped pillows they received after recently undergoing open heart surgery, as sister Doreen Klotka listens Sunday at Long's home in Lake in the Hills. Klotka is in the process of diagnosing her own heart health.

wisconsin senators come to town

2011-02-22T16:00:00.000-08:00

I had a randomly exciting day reporting on the Wisconsin Democratic Senators today in our coverage area, as my luck would have it. A few cards fell into place, so to say, and I got a one-on-one interview with Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee, wrote a story, got photos, edited, and sent everything remotely. Xoxo journalism. Mucho thanks to Channel 12 out of Milwaukee. Go Wisconsin!

Wisconsin Democratic Senator Chris Larson, District 7, prepares to leave a hotel in an undisclosed location in northern Illinois Tuesday afternoon. "When he's talking about 'we need to do this,' it's a joke," said Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee. "I think the biggest thing right now is for Walker to take this bill, throw it out, let's start from scratch, let's figure out how to tackle this deficit without going after the workers, without going after the working class."

far from home

2011-02-22T15:39:00.000-08:00

We got a chance to speak with Michael Kunzler last week and hear his story about evacuating Cairo, Egypt, last month once the riots began. Kunzler and his family live in Cairo and are staying with family in Illinois for the time being. Travel route
Michael Kunzler holds son Ezra, 4, after a nap, at his sister's home in Woodstock on Thursday afternoon. Father and son evacuated Cairo, Egypt, when the riots began, and Kunzler's wife, Aimee Cutrona, still resides in Egypt with work obligations.

And it looks like the story and photos also ran in Istanbul, Turkey, and who knows where else!:
http://www.topix.com/tr/istanbul/2011/02/father-son-escape-upheaval-in-egypt-to-woodstock

hear hear

2011-02-22T15:27:00.000-08:00

I got a call to head over to a jam-packed village hall in Huntley last week as a public hearing was in process regarding the building of a new hospital. Luckily, being press I got escorted in, and furthermore got situated right next to the CEO of the hospital. It's good to know what all the public officials look like!
Hundreds pack Huntley Village Hall on Wednesday morning for a public hearing on Centegra Health System's proposal to build a new hospital near Reed and Haligus Roads. The public hearing is part of the process in obtaining a certificate of need from the state for permission to build a new hospital.

Centegra Health System CEO Michael S. Eesley jots down a note during the public hearing.

Crystal Lake Mayor and Senior Vice President of Administrative Services and General Counsel for Centegra Health System Aaron Shepley confers with colleagues Wednesday.

so pretty

2011-02-16T15:30:00.000-08:00

A post just because I like these.
Chicago's McCormick Place.

Dean Street Elementary School at sunrise.

Rural road, Illinois Wisconsin border.

locks dam bam

2011-02-16T15:29:00.000-08:00

A recent story regarding the increase in temperatures and possible flooding led me to the William G. Stratton-Thomas A. Bolger Lock and Dam in McHenry on Monday. I've been enjoying the environmental and science-related assignments I have had recently and am now more well-versed in lock and dam lingo than ever expected.
Lock and Dam Tender Joe Farej leads the way to the dam.

These controls help in lowering and raising the gates by inflating and deflating the 'bladders.'

Outflows from the dam are 500 cubic feet per second, and the water equivalent of the snow throughout the watershed ranges from 2 1/2 feet to 3 feet of rainfall.

uh ooga

2011-02-16T15:22:00.000-08:00

Beep beep! Vroom vroom! Time for the annual Chicago Auto Show.

Also check out a video I made!

back to school it is

2011-02-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

I have spent a lot of time in schools and around kids lately. See what the children have been up to!
Kindergartner Sofia Corona, 5, covers her mouth in surprise during the "Jump With Jill" performance at Meadowdale Elementary School in Carpentersville on Tuesday. School district 300 was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its nutrition and fitness programs.

'Rockstar Nutritionist' Jill Jayne teaches and entertains students at Meadowdale Elementary School in Carpentersville on Tuesday afternoon. Jayne, a registered dietician and musician, teaches and entertains students with songs about nutrition and making healthy choices.

Jill Jayne high fives third-grader De'Rae Williams, 8, during her performance.

It was back to school after two days off due to the blizzard for students at Dean Street Elementary School in Woodstock.

Children prepare for the start of the school day.

And after school...

Grace Koeppen, 11, left, and Nicole Nischke, 9, hike up McHenry Township sledding hill in Johnsburg on Tuesday afternoon. A novice should try to avoid jumps, Nicole said.

I remember doing this...
From left to right, Shaina Castelino, Daniel Kaye, and Raegan Hilbrant, all 10 years old, participate in the annual Jump Rope for Heart event at Hannah Martin Elementary School in Lake in the Hills on Wednesday. The event promotes teamwork, builds school spirit, and gives students the opportunity to contribute to their community.

Sydney Gray, 9, center, smiles at classmate Karissa Witczak, 10, during the event.

mortal combat

2011-02-16T15:01:00.001-08:00

snowmagoedden

2011-02-15T19:26:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago a blizzard swept through Chicago and the surrounding areas. Here is some of the aftermath. Wish I could have gotten more photos from the actual blizzard but I was bedbound with a fever.

Car? Snow monster? It took 3 plus hours of shoveling to figure it out.

People walk out on the ice caps of Lake Michigan.

This kid was having fun flipping over the fence into the snow.

samwell

2011-02-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

A recent favorite of a favorite person.

ski jumping and a viking

2011-01-31T11:42:00.000-08:00

I ran into this friendly Viking at the annual Norge Ski Jump Tournament yesterday. Ski jumping originated in Norway in the early 1800s when a Norwegian lieutenant launched himself 9.5 meters in the air in front of an audience of other soldiers. The longest jump set Sunday was recorded at 82 meters.

Norge Ski Club member Marty Knapp sports his Viking attire at the 106th Annual Norge Ski Jump Tournament in Fox River Grove on Sunday. Knapp, of Fox River Grove, has been the club Viking for the past 35 years.

A ski jumper takes flight in the 106th Annual Norge Ski Jump Tournament in Fox River Grove on Sunday. Spectators and skiiers from all over the world competed in the weekend event.

Kimmo Ylliriestro of Finland cheers after jumping 82 meters in the longest standing jump contest.

How it ran...

And some others I liked.

Read more about the Norge Ski Club here: http://www.norgeskiclub.com/index.cgi?page=1_1

january nears an end

2011-01-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

I'll give you one guess on how old this woman is...

Lil Schmarje, 96, talks to daughter Vicki Schmarje's second-grade class at Westwood Elementary School in Woodstock Wednesday morning. The elder Schmarje spoke on her 96th birthday about what life and school was like when she was a child, on the students' 96th day of school.
And eerily enough, I took 96 photos...

Tim McCormic carves ice into a groundhog outside of Two Tails Market/Eatery in Woodstock on Wednesday. McCormic, a chef, has carved ice since 1982 and was sculpting the rodent for the Chili Cook-off in Woodstock on Saturday.

From left to right, sophomores Johnny Robson, Christian Hughes, Zach Hellman and Nick Marvich listen to teacher Diane Dorn talk about making nylon in their honors chemistry class Tuesday morning.

Senior companions David Johnson, 70, left, and Oliver "Gil" Snyder, 83, both of Crystal Lake, chat at Snyder's home. The pair met through Senior Services Associates and meet once a week.

David Johnson, 70, left, and Oliver "Gil" Snyder, 83, enjoy talking about politics and history and their weekly meet-ups.

Children watch Huntley play McHenry in a Friday night match-up at Huntley High School.

care bears

2011-01-19T17:56:00.000-08:00

Bears coverage continued last week Monday, Jan 17, 2011.
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler and fellow Bears players team up to help raise funds for teenager 14-year-old Brandon Peters, who suffers from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a terminal cancer.

bears bonanza

2011-01-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

The game against the Bears and Seahawks Sunday went smashingly. A beautiful fluffy snow fell during the first half, and I was mostly toasty aside from some cold feet and a frozen trigger finger half-way in. Due to a recent winter bicycling injury I opted to shoot from the sidelines rather than kneel in the endzones. (And for the record I am staying true to my Wisconsin roots for a Packers win this Sunday...)

Here is my favorite shot. Lots of photos but this is some history in the makin'!
Chicago's Greg Olsen escapes a tackle by Seattle's Marcus Trufant with a 33 yard gain in the first half of the game Sunday afternoon at Soldier Field. The Bears defeated the Seahawks 35-24.

The Chicago Bears enter the field for their game Sunday, Jan. 16, 2011 against the Seattle Seahawks.

Chicago's Greg Olsen catches a 58-yard pass from Jay Cutler in the first quarter to score the first touchdown of the game against Seattle Sunday afternoon at Soldier Field.

Chester Taylor celebrates.

Chicago's Jay Cutler scores a touchdown in the second half as Seattle's Jordan Babineaux tries to tackle him.

Coach Lovie Smith smiles after the Bears score a touchdown.

Chicago's Anthony Adams celebrates with a somersault in the fourth quarter.

Seattle's Matt Hasslebeck looks to pass just before he gets tackled in the second half.

I don't know if this works but I like this photo.

And the sports page...

january saturday

2011-01-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

I spent Saturday outside all day, shooting pond hockey and land conservation efforts. It was good practice for the Bears Seahawks game Sunday.

Participants in the Lake in the Hills inaugural pond hockey tournament play Saturday afternoon on Woods Creek Lake off Indian Trail. Twelve teams from throughout Illinois and Wisconsin competed in 30-minute four-on-four games throughout the day.

Here is a video I shot from the event:
http://ssm.nwherald.com/northwest-herald/video/20110116PondHockey/pond-hockey-tournament/

Spectators stay bundled up for the inaugural Lake in the Hills pond hockey tournament Saturday. Twelve teams played 22 games Saturday on two rinks created on the frozen surface of the lake, and the tournament was for players 18 and older.

Neil Smith, right, and Dave Heelein carry logs in the restoration effort of land near Pioneer Fen and Dutch Creek in Johnsburg on Saturday morning. Volunteers meet every third Saturday of the month to remove and combat invasive plants and encourage native plant growth.

And here is how it all came together in the newspaper.

workplace workout

2011-01-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wish you could just work out in your office? Not have to drive to the gym? Have someone come to you? Well it can be done, and these ladies make it happen.

Personal trainer Suzanne Janusz, of Destination Fitness, works out with client Nancy Effert in her office downtown Crystal Lake Friday. The pair workout once a week for an hour.

a snowy tuesday

2011-01-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a winter feature from last week.
Ice fisherman try their luck on Crystal Lake on Tuesday afternoon. In general, new ice is usually stronger than old ice, and four inches of clear, newly‑formed ice may support one person on foot.

donkey basketball

2011-01-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

I photographed donkey basketball last week. What is that, you may ask? Well it is exactly what you would think it would be, players ride donkeys until they fall off and try to score a basket with a smaller than average ball.
Marengo Fire Protection District's Scott Klaassens chases after his donkey during the game Thursday evening.

Marengo Fire Protection District's Jake Adamson attempts a shot as Marengo Middle School principal Tracy Beam tries to block him at the Donkey Basketball fundraiser held at Marengo High School on Thursday evening. The event, hosted by the Marengo Community High School Booster Club, raised proceeds to help fund the athletics program.

the aftermath of a visit to the chicago cultural center

2011-01-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

I took a visit Monday afternoon to see the new exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center, "Finding Vivian Maier: Chicago Street Photographer." It is everything it is cracked up to be. Read more about her here:

http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/January-2011/Vivian-Maier-Street-Photographer/index.php?cparticle=3&siarticle=2#artanc

I rather liked her quote: “I suppose nothing is meant to last forever... We have to make room for other people. It’s a wheel—you get on, you go to the end, and someone else has the same opportunity to go to the end, and so on, and somebody else takes their place. There’s nothing new under the sun.”

Consequently, here are some photos I took inspired by Maier. Enjoy!

Feedback is welcome.
Also, here are my favorite fellow cohorts, Sam and Sophie.

bird in the newsroom

2011-01-11T12:29:00.000-08:00

A feathered friend paid a visit to the office of the Northwest Herald a few weeks ago. I forgot to post this but it happened a few days before Christmas and subsequently the bird got cornered in HR. Check out this short video I made from some raw footage I took:
http://vimeo.com/18029593

1.1.11

2011-01-02T20:44:00.000-08:00

From one side of Lake Michigan to the other...

calendar 2011

2011-01-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

I made a calendar of some favorite nature, travel and abstract images from 2010. Enjoy and happy 2011!

January
View from a hot air balloon, sunrise.

February
Ski jumpers.

March
Foggy night at the Chicago lakefront.

April
Bicycles, Verona, Italy.

May
Cafe Lula's, Logan Square, Chicago.

June
The Wiener Circle, Chicago.

July
County Fair, Anywhere, USA.

August
Plant at Lake Michigan, Petoskey, Michigan.

September
Castle, Bolzano, Italy.

October
View from hot air balloon.

November
Modern Art Museum, Munich, Germany.

December
The Dolomite Mountains, Italy.

a night at the united center

2011-01-02T18:49:00.000-08:00

Chicago Blackhawks vs. the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, Dec. 30, in Chicago. Thanks to the kind photographers who helped me navigate my way around the United Center. Here is the night as I saw it.

National anthem.

Patrick Sharp (center) scores the first goal of the game.

Sharks goalie Antti Niemi (and formerly Blackhawks goalie) during the game.

A fight breaks out.

Sharks defeated the Blackhawks, 5-3.

a surprise welcome

2011-01-01T21:53:00.000-08:00

I was just finishing up a business assignment at a consignment shop last Wednesday when I got a text from the boss alerting me to a surprise welcome home. After a hurry-up-and-wait to get to the home of the welcomees, I was happy with the reactions and shots I got.

Kelly Lott, center, is taken aback by her homecoming welcome Wednesday afternoon at her family's home in Algonquin as fiance Jon Barstow and sister Stacy Lott watch. Lott and Barstow, on leave until Jan. 11, returned home from the Navy after beeing overseas since November of 2009.

december assignments

2011-01-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

December has flown by. This is a photo from an assignment on fitness boot camps offered at work.

A feature on a local chess club and the exciting game of chess, which I got for Christmas and aim to get better at...

A holiday event announcing the plans for a new hospital to be built in Huntley.

A business feature on a new physical therapy center that opened in McHenry.

Michelle Grimes talks to husband Sean Grimes Monday evening while preparing dinner at their home in McHenry. A Marine Corps veteran, Sean was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder three months after returning from Iraq. Symptoms include nightmares, sleepwalking, and uneasyness.

'tis the season for basketball

2011-01-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

Time for basketball season... boys, girls, tournaments, games... nice to stay warm shooting a sport for these winter months!

A heartbreaker of a game- Johnsburg teammates react to their 60-58 loss to Buffalo Grove in the last 3 seconds of the game with a break away lay-up.

merry christmas!

2010-12-30T14:26:00.000-08:00

soldiers come home

2010-12-07T16:14:00.000-08:00

Reporter Amber Krosel and I covered a soldier homecoming Sunday evening as the
U.S. Army’s 485th Engineer Company, 1st Platoon, Rockford, and the 2nd and 3rd Platoon, Fort Sheridan, came home after a year away. Also of note, filing a story, photos, and a video remotely from Amber's car can be done with the gracious help of free Panera wi-fi. Dream news team!

Tatiana Bailey, of Crystal Lake, shares a moment with husband Jeff at his homecoming celebration held at Hampshire High School on Sunday evening. Friends and family welcomed home the U.S. Army’s 485th Engineer Company, 1st Platoon, Rockford, and the 2nd and 3rd Platoon, Fort Sheridan.

the tree is lit

2010-12-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

I photographed the tree lighting ceremony at Daley Plaza Nov. 24, on a wet and chilly evening, with bad traffic making for a slow commute. After parking close to a red line stop I hopped on the El and made it down to Daley Plaza with 10 minutes to spare. I even got to photograph ANOTHER member of the Cusack clan! Joan Cusack introduced Mayor Daley for his last tree lighting ceremony as mayor.

Fireworks explode in the sky downtown Chicago after the lighting of the Christmas tree from McHenry at Daley Plaza on Wednesday evening. Mayor Daley, actress Joan Cusack, and property owners John and Pat Colomer helped introduce the event.

Tree propery owners John and Pat Colomer of McHenry wait to light the tree as the After School Opera sings at the Christmas tree lighting at Daley Plaza in Chicago on Wednesday evening.

top basketball players

2010-12-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

I recently photographed the top ten high school boys and girls basketball players to keep an eye on this season. I used the old press room at the newspaper's office as a backdrop. Here are some favorites.