Kyle Spradley Photography Blog

Missouri Mavericks Hockey Club

2012-01-16T20:20:00.002-06:00

Spent lots of time in Independence, Missouri this last month working on a spread in Rural Missouri on the Missouri Mavericks. In just the team's third season, the Mavericks look to make the CHL playoffs. For just a young franchise, quite a large fan base is building. Last year, the home games averaged just over 5,000 fans a game in the 5,800-seat stadium. If ya have the chance, catch a Mavs game at the awesome new Independence Events Center just off Interstate 70. For more information on the Mavericks, visit www.missourimavericks.com or like them on Facebook. Stay tuned for my video piece and story.

From left, goalie Charlie Effinger, head coach Scott Hillman and forward Ed McGrane.

Head coach Scott Hillman jokes with players during a practice at the Independence Events Center.

The home of the Mavericks - the new, 5,800-seat Independence Events Center. Located off Interstate 70 just minutes from downtown Kansas City, the arena is easily accessible.

Fans file through the turnstiles to pack the Independence Events Center. Last season, the Mavericks ranked second in average home game attendance.

Filly Spirt Squad member Laura Clark, left, cheers on the Mavericks during a home game on Jan. 7 against the Quad City Mallards.

Mavericks mascot Mac, pumps up the crowd during a home game on Jan. 6 against the Tulsa Oilers. The Mavericks won 4-3.

Trevor Dolata, 6, cheers on the Mavericks during warm-ups before a game on Dec. 20 against the Laredo Bucks.

Mavericks head coach Scott Hillman calls out plays to his players from the bench.

Mavericks players look out from the bench during a game on Dec. 20 against the Laredo Bucks.

Ed McGrane watches as a lose puck trickles past the Laredo goaltender. The puck bounced just wide to keep the game scoreless at 0-0 on Dec. 20.

Mavericks players celebrate after a Brandon Coccimiglio goal in the second period during Missouri's 4-3 victory over the Tulsa Oilers.

Fans react after a Mavericks goal in the second period against the Tulsa Oilers. After last season, the Mavs were honored as the Best Franchise in the CHL and the league's best fans.

Mavericks defenseman Dave Pszenyczny checks Quad City Mallard center Sean Flanagan into the boards during Missouri's 6-3 victory on Jan. 7.

Season ticket owner Tim Owens of Liberty celebrates a Mavericks goal with his daughter Becca during Missouri's 6-3 victory on Jan. 7.

Mavericks forward John Scott-Dixson fights for the puck against a Tulsa Oilers defensman.

Mavericks forward Andrew Courtney blocks a Tulsa Oilers shot.

Mavericks mascot Mac celebrates another Mavs' win.

Fans congratulate Maverick players after a 4-3 win over the Tulsa Oilers. Although still a pro team, Maverick players are very visible and open for more fan interaction than the major leagues.

Riverlands Migratory Bird Sancutary Wildlife

2012-01-02T19:21:00.001-06:00

More images from Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers on the Missouri side near Alton, Illinois. Got to see some Trumpeter Swans in action along with several other wildlife. A great spot for a wildlife photographer to shoot and being only a short drive from St. Louis, totally worth it. Enjoy!

This image was on the January cover of Rural Missouri. Check it out online

The Trumpeters are very amusing to watch. Sometimes they will get in a group and squawk at each other. Sounds a lot like a horn.

Giggin on the Gasconade

2011-12-29T11:14:00.000-06:00

In November I got the awesome opportunity to go gigging for fish for the first time with some guys on the Gasconade River. This is a sport rich in family tradition. Read more in the online edition of Rural Missouri at: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/ruralmissouri/201112/index.php#/8 and watch the video below. Visit my new YouTube channel for more of my videos at www.youtube.com/KspradleyPHOTO

Jason Martin of Houston scans from the bow of the boat for suckers. Giggers target non-game fish such as suckers rather than bass, trout or bluegill. Since giggers fish at night, powerful lights are used to light up the shallow waters of the Gasconade River.

With a 14-foot gig in hand, Tim Pirtle of Fredericktown scans the waters of the Gasconade River for suckers.

A closeup of the gig.

Jason Martin places a gigged sucker into a well.

The evening's catch.

The fish are then cooked up for others to enjoy.

Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary

2011-12-28T21:49:00.001-06:00

Here is another image from Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near Alton, Illinois. Each winter, hundreds of Trumpeter Swans visit this protected wildlife refuge. North America's largest bird at one point was almost extinct but thanks to efforts in the 1950s, the birds have rebounded. The wetlands and fields of the area near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers provides the birds a great wintering habitat.

Great Blue Heron at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary

2011-12-28T16:03:00.000-06:00

Got this shot of a Great Blue Heron while shooting at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near Alton, Illinois. I was there trying to get shots of Trumpeter swans for our January cover and couldnt pass up on this epic light. This guy was just hanging out by the edge of the water and provided for a great silhouette image. This is a great place to see wildlife, especially waterfowl and other birds. Visit www.ruralmissouri.coop/digitalrm to see the image I got of the Trumpeters on the cover. Enjoy!

Ozark Knife-Making School

2011-12-24T11:23:00.001-06:00

Tom McGinnis of Ozark Knife Makers heats up a Damascus steel blade during one of his knife-making classes in Ozark, Missouri. For more than three decades the master craftsman has been on the cutting edge of blade building.

Bent Tree Gallery Chair Class

2011-12-19T11:18:00.002-06:00

Last month, I ran a story about The Bent Tree Gallery in Clarksville. John Whitt makes awesome things out of bent willow wood. He also offers 2-day workshops in which you can learn to make a bent willow wood chair of your own. Will make a great gift for someone's birthday or Christmas gift.

The Ozark Mountain Daredevils

2011-11-30T15:14:00.001-06:00

For 40 years, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils have transported listeners to the rural Ozarks with their music. Here from founding members John Dillon and Steve Cash how their band got started.

Tetons

2011-11-16T22:21:00.001-06:00

The Grand Tetons just past sunset.

Bull Elk - Grand Teton National Park

2011-11-16T10:39:00.001-06:00

Got this shot of a bull elk in Grand Teton National Park along Cottonwood Creek Road that parallels the Snake River. This is a great route to take for viewing wildlife, especially in the morning. Make sure you have a four-wheel drive vehicle though. The road gets a little rough sometimes. So, the next time you are in the park, try out the route.

Grand Teton National Park in Black and White

2011-11-15T19:26:00.001-06:00

Another image from Grand Teton National Park in black and white.

Oxbow Bend Kayaker

2011-11-15T09:36:00.001-06:00

Sorry for not posting anything for a while. Been busy with a lot of side projects, filing for tax information and general deadline stuff.

Here is another shot from my trip out West back in September. Spotted this kayaker paddling around Oxbow Bend while I was waiting to spot some wildlife along the Snake River. Had some really nice evening light and the reflection was great.

Burger-Kohring Wedding

2011-11-02T12:20:00.002-05:00

asdkfjaTis the season for weddings. And this October was no different. Shot another wedding, but this time it was in St. Louis. Had a wonderful day with Oliver and Katherine. They were so laid back and great to work with. Props to Oliver. The poor guy was running a fever but still found a way to provide great emotion. It was a small ceremony at Grant's Lodge but a great spot. I am Oliver's side here and really love the animals and Western feel of the place. We shot some portraits at Laumier Sculpture Park. Not a bad place to shoot, especially with the nice fall color. The reception was held at Two Hearts Banquet Center, which provided me with plenty of space to set up my lights with radio triggers. Thanks again to everyone. Enjoy!

Hall-Atashroo Wedding

2011-10-27T10:36:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of October I had the pleasure of shooting another wedding at Cedar Creek Resort near Columbia, Missouri in Boone County. Had great weather and a great setting with great light, which thankfully means great pictures right? Thanks to Megan and David for letting me be a part of your day! Enjoy!

Moulton Barn in Black and White

2011-10-13T10:37:00.000-05:00

Another shot of the infamous John Moulton Barn along Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park. Again, a great spot to get one of the many iconic images of Wyoming and the park.

John Moulton Barn in Grand Teton National Park

2011-10-11T13:03:00.000-05:00

The famous John Moulton Barn at Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park on a fall morning in September. This is a classic spot to shoot but that also means shooting elbow to elbow with other "photographers." Here's a bit of advice: if ever going there, get there early, stake your spot and dont leave.

Rocky Mountain National Park Fall Color

2011-10-08T13:11:00.001-05:00

Another shot from Rocky Mountain National Park of the aspens about at their full peak in golden, fall color.

Mormon Row

2011-10-04T18:35:00.000-05:00

Morning sunrise in the Mormon Row area of the southern portion of Grand Teton National Park. The area is famous for its iconic barns and views of the mountains as well as a hot spot for wildlife such as buffalo, pronghorn and elk.

Jackson Hole Wyoming

2011-10-04T14:28:00.000-05:00

The famous elk antler arches in downtown Jackson, Wyoming.

Gros Ventre Cabin Ruins

2011-10-04T09:44:00.001-05:00

Couldn't decide which one I liked most, so I posted both. Shot these at some cabin ruins along Gros Ventre Road on the east side of Grand Teton National Park. This road is pretty awesome to drive, especially in the fall when the aspens are changing. It is also fun to do because not as many of the tourists that do the heavily visited areas of Jenny and Jackson Lake visit this area.

Mt Moran

2011-10-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

The iconic Mt. Moran rises above Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park. The black and white just works best with shots of the famous peaks at Grand Teton. Totally recalls the days of Ansel Adams. Its so crazy to hear his stories from his projects in the 1940s. To get some of his shots he spent weeks trying to set up. Now we can go buy that picture at Target for like 20 bucks. Just put things in perspective and remember what photographer's have to do.

Gros Ventre Sunrise

2011-10-03T11:41:00.000-05:00

For one of the sunrises I shot off of the Gros Ventre area on the east side of Grand Teton National Park. I walked past some cabin ruins to the top of this hill that had a lot of nice wildflowers and sagebrush. Was hoping for some clouds to add more effect, but no luck. It was really windy so I tried a few long-shutter shots but didnt get the motion blur I was hoping.

Aspens in Grand Teton National Park

2011-10-02T21:13:00.005-05:00

Recently got back from a 10-day trip from out in Denver, Colorado and Grand Teton National Park during the beginning of the fall season. The Aspens were about at their peak and the weather was perfect.

Jackson-Montague Wedding

2011-09-26T20:00:00.008-05:00

Had a fantastic day shooting the Jackson-Montague Wedding at Cedar Creek Resort in Columbia, Missouri. Great venue for a wedding. Lots of opportunities for pictures and poses in a great country setting. Thanks again Charlotte and Drew for letting me capture your special day. For more wedding images, visit www.kspradleyphoto.com/weddings.html

Hall-Atashroo Engagement Photos

2011-08-23T22:16:00.005-05:00

Again another shoot on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia, Missouri. Had a great time with Megan and David and looking forward to their wedding in October.

Make sure if you like these posts, check me out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kylespradleyphoto.

Canada-Ekhoff Engagement Pics

2011-08-22T21:19:00.006-05:00

Shot these a while back but never posted them. Thanks to Dane and Jessica for a great shoot around the University of Missouri's Columbia Campus. MIZ-ZOU!

Missouri State Fair Concerts

2011-08-22T16:20:00.008-05:00

Spent the last two weeks on and off again at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Was able to catch a few concerts and snap a few picks. The first was the major country show with Thompson Square and Chris Young opening for Jason Aldean.

Long Branch Lake - Macon

2011-08-03T21:43:00.006-05:00

Shot some photos along the banks of Long Branch Lake, just north of Macon. Had some great light for some good long exposures to add a smoother look to the water. These photos to me don't see like Missouri. This seems like something from Michigan or out west. Times like these is when I love traveling the state doing by best to express my photographic eye to find interesting subjects. Enjoy.

NW Missouri windmills

2011-07-24T18:07:00.005-05:00

Well, finally visited the utmost extreme corners of Missouri in a recent work trip. Traveled enough miles in one day equivalent to driving to Chicago and back...but I never left the state. Crazy. Did get to see the Missouri windmills around Conception, which was pretty cool. Had some great light in the evening as a storm rolled through to the south but bright sun behind me. Enjoy!

Big Springs...revisited

2011-07-24T17:30:00.003-05:00

Always love hitting up the Current River area near Van Buren. Clear water, good fishing and beautiful vistas. Almost every time I visit the area, I stop by Big Springs. It is a remarkable spring that is one of the largest in the world. In fact, it pumps out enough water to fill up Busch Stadium every 33 hours. Pretty impressive. I have shot there a bunch before but this time I opted for a black and white image.

Pin Oak Hill

2011-07-11T22:15:00.000-05:00

Join Managing Editor Jason Jenkins on his visit to Pin Oak Hill in Bogard for another of Rural Missouri's Out of the Way Eats. This place started out as a private club back in the early '90s, but along the way owner Scott Luetticke found that people enjoy his menu of hand-cut steaks and homemade favorites as much as his world-class shooting amenities

HDR Car

2011-07-11T22:10:00.003-05:00

Found this old car in a field near Starkenburg, Missouri. Great sunset. Combination of 3 images to create a High-Dynamic-Range image.

Washington, DC Youth Tour

2011-06-26T19:01:00.003-05:00

Been on a crazy last few weeks of travel, but here are a few of my favorite images from this year's Youth Tour. Once again had a great time with several high school kids from across the state of Missouri.
Washington Monument
Amazing how the light can change from one moment to the next.
Korean War Memorial
Arlington National Cemetery
World War II Memorial

Red Bluff Recreation Area

2011-06-06T09:47:00.006-05:00

Spent the weekend camping and fishing at Red Bluff Recreation Area along the Huzzah Creek near Steelville. This is a great place to camp. Not too many people know about it, even though it is a fairly large campground. The clear, cold waters of the Huzzah make for a great summer day swimming. The fast moving, spring-fed waters also make a for great fishing for smallmouth bass and other Ozark fish. Also take the time to checkout nearby Dillard Mill and grab a weekend meal at the Traveler's Table. Make sure to save room for some homemade Gooey Butter Cake.

Flooding..cont.

2011-06-02T07:40:00.004-05:00

Stanley May pilots his jon boat past his sister's home that sits submerged in several feet of water. More than 130,000 acres of Missouri land was purposely flooded after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers blew portions of the Birds Point levee to activate the New Madrid Floodway in Mississippi County to alleviate pressure off the Mississippi River.

A cemetery sits under water near Charleston, Missouri.

National Guardsmen, police and firemen pull at mastiff out of the back of a U.S. Army truck near Naylor, Missouri. The dog, its owner and two kids were rescued from their home as rising floodwaters swamped the area.

A home in Butler County is inundated with floodwaters.

Workers at the Associated Electric Cooperative's New Madrid Power Plant fill sandbags in preparation to hold back floodwaters from the nearby rising Mississippi River in Marston, Missouri.

Southeast Missouri Flooding

2011-05-31T15:33:00.006-05:00

Here are a few selects from my days in early May in southeast Missouri covering the flooding for Rural Missouri.

Waters from the Mississippi River inundate a home near New Madrid. With more than 25 to 30 inches of rain in two weeks, every creek, ditch and river filled up with water throughout most of southeast Missouri.

Flooding near Naylor, Missouri.

Rising floodwaters forced farmer Dewey Inman to house his goats in the only dry piece of land he had - inside his grain silo.

Sandbags became the norm for Bootheel decor, especially in Caruthersville, where the Mississippi River crested just inches away from flooding the small, river town.

The town of Morehouse, near Sikeston, sits underwater.

2011 Flooding

2011-05-26T10:46:00.004-05:00

A video piece I did for Rural Missouri on the historic flooding in southeast Missouri this spring. Heavy rains around Poplar Bluff and Mississippi County caused quite the problems for farmers and residents in some of the most precious farmlands and scenic landscapes.

Spring Thunderstorms

2011-05-23T10:01:00.008-05:00

After a wave of hard rains rolled through the area, the skies sort of cleared to give way to an unreal sunset north of Hermann along Highway 19.

Sorry for haven't posting anything for a while. Been kind of swamped...literally...with flood coverage down in the Bootheel the last month. Will be posting flood photos soon and a video piece

Rocky Falls

2011-04-24T17:24:00.004-05:00

This past week I was down in Eminence for a tour of the elk holding pens and restoration area at Peck Ranch Conservation Area for a story. Excited to see where the first elk will be in Missouri since before the Civil War.

So before the tour, had free time to check out Rocky Falls. Have been here a bunch before, but never seen it flowing this much. Also, great to shoot it from the other side of the bank. Had to scurry around the rocks and cross on a downed tree. Not the greatest light but still great to check this place out.

Washington DC - Cherry Blossum Festival

2011-04-11T22:01:00.008-05:00

Was recently in Washington DC for a the New Co-op Communicators Conference at NRECA. Had a great time and met some amazing people while learning about all our cooperatives offer nationwide. Lucked out in that the famous cherry trees were in almost full bloom around the Tidal Basin of the Capital Mall. Always wanted to see these gnarly trees in bloom and was glad I did. It was amazing. It was also the biggest Melvin collection ever. Sooooo many clowns with DSLRs thinking they are "photographers."

High School Playoffs - Women's Final Four

2011-04-10T20:47:00.004-05:00

St. Joseph;s Academy of St. Louis versus Blue Springs South of Kansas City in the Missouri State High School Athletics Association semifinal game of the women's championship.

High School Playoffs

2011-04-10T19:37:00.005-05:00

A little late on this post from Final Four games at the Missouri State High School Athletic Association men's basketball championship. Rock Brige High School lost to Troy High School.

Clifty Creek Conservation Area

2011-04-04T22:16:00.004-05:00

Had an unusually warm day in March so decided to head out for a hike. Checked out Clifty Creek Conservation Area near Dixon, in central Missouri. Cool place. Check it out on MDC's website. Awesome natural bridge and bluff views.

Rural Missouri March 2011 Cover

2011-02-17T13:20:00.006-06:00

A shot from Amidon Memorial Conservation Area near Fredericktown that will be our March 2011 cover. The second shot is the inside picture. Both photos are available to purchase at our NEW website at www.ruralmissouri.coop/printsstore.php. Both were taken last March after a heavy rainstorm. Enjoy!

Devil's Backbone

2011-01-22T22:48:00.005-06:00

I've posted photos from this location before, but first time shooting here in the winter after a snowstorm. Columbia and most of Missouri was dumped with over 6 inches of snow, creating some great photo opportunities. This is a view from atop the cliff off Backbone Road above Cedar Creek in the Mark Twain National Forest - Cedar Creek District.

This panoramic is a collection of 22 images stitched together in about a 180 degree view. I shoot my panoramic photos vertically to give more space and room for a crop.

This is an HDR image composed of 13 images shot within a 1/3 stop of each other. With the new process in Photoshop CS5, composing an HDR image is a lot easier. You are seeing a lot of HDR photos on the web a lot lately, which is great, but dont overuse the technology to give too much of a surreal image. I try to make my HDR images not too extreme and appear other-worldly.

Mizzou vs kU at Arrowhead

2011-01-09T22:09:00.003-06:00

A late post but some images from the Mizzou vs. Kansas game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. The Tigers whooped up on the silly Jayhawks in a blowout of a football game. Enjoy!

New Year's Eve Storm

2011-01-06T21:09:00.004-06:00

Was able to snap a few pics of some of the destruction from the New Year's Eve tornado that touched down in Sunset Hills and Fenton. Unfortunately I was not able to get much as I was ran out of the place a lot. Old people in Sunset Hills are obnoxious. Would rather stick with people in the country.

"Like" my page

2011-01-04T12:07:00.001-06:00

If you are on Facebook, head on over and check out my Kyle Spradley Photography page at www.facebook.com/kylespradleyphoto. Thanks!

Buffalo

2011-01-03T13:37:00.002-06:00

After a white Christmas I headed over to Lone Elk Park in Valley Park hoping to get some shots of elk in the snow but was unsuccessful. Did get this different shot of a buffalo head.

Conklin Wedding

2010-12-23T14:13:00.001-06:00

Conklin wedding - favorite pic

2010-12-23T13:55:00.004-06:00

On Dec. 10 I shot a good friend's of mine's wedding. It was great. Everyone was so nice and helpful and we all had a blast. Preparations were at the Drury Inn in Fenton. The wedding was at the Eureka Most Sacred Heart Church. Reception followed at Andre's West, which is a great place to have a wedding. The staff served up a great meal, provided excellent service and had a great stocked bar. This is a favorite of mine. Check back soon for more of the images.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

2010-11-10T21:35:00.005-06:00

Spent the evening shooting at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. It was a nice evening but with a lot of people. Hadn't been there since I was a little kid so I was excited regardless to see the ruins of the castle. Great views as well. Enjoy!

Grand Falls - Joplin

2010-11-10T19:01:00.003-06:00

While working on an assignment in Joplin for Rural Missouri I stopped for a sunrise at Grand Falls. Along Shoal Creek, on the southwest end of the town you can find Grand Falls. Great spot to shoot, mainly because it is easy to get to with being only off the road.

I also am unvailing my new logo. Let me know what you think of it. A new website is still in the works. Hope to launch it before Christmas.

Enjoy!

World's Largest Small Appliance Museum

2010-11-08T11:10:00.005-06:00

While in Joplin this past weekend working on a story I stopped in to the World's Largest Small Appliance Museum in Diamond, Missouri. Unbelievable amount of toasters this guy has. He also has hundreds of old coffee makers and other appliances, all in dang near mint condition. If you are ever in the area check it out. It is in the back of JR's Western Store.

Pratte Wedding - 10.23.10

2010-11-03T13:05:00.004-05:00

Another wedding! The ceremony was at a church in St. Charles followed by the reception at DKlondike Park's conference center near Augusta. We also took photos at Creve Ceour Park. Klondike Park was really great, especially with the viewpoint on top of the cliff over the Missouri River. Great choice for a fall wedding with the color at it's peak.

Wertheimer Wedding

2010-11-02T22:13:00.003-05:00

The wedding of Matt Wertheimer and Tracie Sisak. Ceremony at St. Francis Xavier on the Saint Louis University's campus in Midtown St. Louis. We took group photos at Busch Stadium and Tower Grove Park. The reception - which had amazing lighting - was at the Moolah Banquet Hall off of Fee Fee Road. The whole wedding party was great and had a fabulous time. Enjoy!

Aerial Basket School

2010-11-02T10:45:00.006-05:00

For Rural Missouri I get to do some awesome stories and travel around the state. I also have to shoot photos for the Electric Cooperatives. Last week I had to snap a few shots of an Aerial Basket Training School. Got to go up in a bucket truck and shoot some stuff from a bird's eye view. Had some great light, clouds, blue sky and fall colors. I figured I would share some of the other things I do at my job. Enjoy!

First HDR with CS5

2010-11-01T11:21:00.002-05:00

Just got CS5 and started playing around with the new tools. A huge update is the HDR editing. Photoshop CS5 makes it so much simpler for the user to edit/tone an HDR image. Was looking into Photomatix or other third party plug-ins for HDR editing, but I think this will work for the time being. If you have CS5 look into the updates they just released.

Hugh Dunn via the Missouri Photo Workshop

2010-10-04T14:49:00.008-05:00

My story for the Missouri Photo Workshop.62
For forty years Hugh Dunn was the head high school football coach and the constant center of attention in Macon. Nearly 20 years after retiring, the 88-year-old World War II veteran is still a major figurehead in the community.

Even without a left hand and eye, the man known simply as “Coach”, attends almost every home Macon sports game, mows the playing fields and with the help of his wife are involved with many organizations supporting the town.

Hugh Dunn mows the Macon High School football field in preparation for a double header of middle school games the following evening. In 1971, the field was named after the illustrious coach in the middle of his four-decade tenure as head coach. Hugh says, humbly, “I still don’t know why they decided to name it after me. I thought they only name fields after dead guys and people who won titles.”

Hugh talks with friends at the Maple City Restaurant. No matter where Hugh goes in town, some former player or friend stops to greet and share a laugh with him.

Hugh’s left eye was injured during a childhood accident where he was hit in the eye with a small rock. Surgery attempted to treat the bruise the rock caused, but an infection lead to removal of the eye.

Hugh and Peg share a laugh with members from their church at the Apple Basket Café in downtown Macon. The ladies were excited to hear that Peg had been doing better after a medical incident that left her hospitalized.

Hugh and his wife of over 60 years Peg, leave their home to walk to the high school to watch two softball and middle school football games. Since the Dunn’s home is across the street from the school, the couple hardly ever misses a home sporting event.

When local craftsman Ward Harrington built the new field goal posts for the school’s field, he felt Coach deserved a piece of the game also.

Players from the Macon Middle School football team head back to the locker room before the start of a game alongside Hugh and Peg Dunn.

Hugh laughs with some of his former players and co-workers at the school’s maintenance shed. Although Hugh mows most of the grounds, he still credits the beauty of the campus to them.

During a middle school football game, Hugh chats with Dick Hilgendorf in the press box above the stadium’s grandstands. Besides being a longtime coach, Hugh was an All American at Missouri Valley College; announcers and statisticians always appreciate his knowledge and color commentary of the game in the box.

Hugh helps Peg up the bleachers before the start of a junior varsity softball game at Macon High School. Besides missing his left eye, Hugh also is without his left hand, but still goes out of his way to assist his wife.

Hugh lost the hand During World War II Hugh lost the hand when he was aiding to a wounded friend in a trench and a German mortar exploded in front of them. Hugh received the Silver Star award and two Purple Hearts for his heroics.

Amidst several sports trophies and awards, tiger memorabilia and Macon regalia, Hugh and Peg discuss a baseball game on T.V. The couple spends most evenings catching up on the daily sports scores and following their favorite teams.

One of Hugh’s trophies sits in front of photos of the couple.

Hugh and Peg met while in college at Missouri Valley after he returned from service overseas in the U.S. Army during World War II. They are the storybook couple. Hugh was the standout football star and she was the homecoming queen.

Hugh applies antibacterial drops into Peg’s eyes. Ironically, Peg also has been dealing with an eye infection from surgery. He is in constant watch over her, making sure she takes her medicine to control her high blood sugar and care for her eye as to not end up without it like Hugh.

“A coach is only as strong as their assistant,” says Hugh. “Without her, I wouldn’t be much. She humbles me.”

Hugh Dunn

2010-09-25T14:49:00.005-05:00

Eighty-five year old Hugh Dunn heads to the work shed of the Macon High School football field for some paint. The World War II veteran still paints the field and mows the lawn the morning of game days. Dunn coached the Macon Tigers for over 40 years after serving in the war and as a national MVP defensive back in college.
Dunn is helped by one of his former players to paint the lines on the field

Tools of the Trade.Hugh struggles a bit with missing some of his left arm and eye but gets along pretty amazingly for an 85 year old man. The Missouri Sports of Hall inductee only lives a few steps from the high school. Dunn is a major figurehead in the small northern Missouri town, and can be found at almost any Macon sports game.
Painting the line.

Scenes around Guatemala

2010-09-21T22:49:00.006-05:00

Photos from my five days in Guatemala. A multimedia project will be soon to follow. A few of my favorite photos first though. (A slideshow is below)

Guatemala - Part 1

2010-09-19T23:34:00.001-05:00

Distribution of 40 PETs in San Bernadino, Gautemala.

Football Season is upon us

2010-08-31T16:15:00.001-05:00

College Football. Yes, it is that time again. Cannot wait. MIZ....

Pinnacles Field

2010-08-27T15:41:00.001-05:00

Found this photo from my archives today while doing some housekeeping. This field is on the ridge above the Pinnacles Youth Conservation Area, north of Columbia. This park is a cool place for an afternoon hike, picnic or walkabout. The 80 foot spire of limestone that remains is quite a site to see. Any only 15 minutes north of Columbia!

Strongman Steve

2010-08-25T20:22:00.007-05:00

Strongman Steve Schmidt performs at the 2010 Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. As a part of Rural Missouri's 'People from our pages' exhibit in the Missouri Electric Cooperatives' Building. Check out more of the Strongman at www.steveschmidtmo.com.

Governor Jay Nixon even stopped by to see his amazing tricks. He bent a draft horseshoe for him.

He then bent another shoe into a heart for the first lady Georganne Nixon.

See the World!....in Missouri

2010-08-25T10:06:00.006-05:00

Images from my "world-traveling."

Sweden

Amsterdam

Cairo

Cuba

Mexico

Paris

Paris

Sweden

Troy

Paris

2010-08-25T09:24:00.005-05:00

A few scenic shots from Paris...Missouri that is. Check back soon for more images from my 'See the World...in Missouri' photo essay!

Our state fair is a great state fair....

2010-08-22T19:57:00.008-05:00

Images from my time at the 2010 Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Sorry no pictures of Gooberburgers or Kahdie's BBQ. Just good old fashioned Americana!

Darius Rucker and The Band Perry

2010-08-22T16:19:00.006-05:00

After working a few days at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia for Missouri's Electric Cooperatives promoting Rural Missouri, I was able to catch a concert on Friday night. Had great seats so I was able to bring my camera and snap a few of The Band Perry and Darius Rucker. Too bad a heavy rain and windstrom rolled through the area and shortened the concert. Regardless, The Band Perry put on an excellent set. They had lots of energy and hope to be hearing more good stuff from them in the future. From the three or four songs we got to hear from Darius Rucker before the skies opened up and they evacuated the crowd, it was a great show. Oh well, just have to catch him when he comes through town next. Keep on the lookout for some video soon.

Hodgson Mill

2010-08-15T21:14:00.002-05:00

Historic Hodgson Mill southeast of Springfield, Missouri. Beautiful stop. Right off the highway and perfect for a sunset evening shot. If you get some fog in the morning it would be a good shot side lit.

Springfield Redbirds game at Hammons Field - AUG 11 2010

2010-08-15T20:37:00.006-05:00

Caught a Double A Minor League game in Springfield at Hammons Field. First time seeing a Springfield Redbirds game and fully enjoyed it. Cheap seats, good views, clean stadium, nice atmosphere. Check one out if you are down there!

Charleville Cover Shot

2010-08-14T12:05:00.005-05:00

A sneak peek at the Rural Missouri September 2010 cover of Charleville Winery Vineyard & Microbrewery. Enjoy!

Birding trip with Columbia Audubon Society

2010-07-21T13:26:00.007-05:00

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

2010-07-21T13:19:00.007-05:00

Cowboy Mounted Shootin Competition - I-70 Shootout - Ashland, Missouri

2010-06-01T15:28:00.005-05:00

Had the awesome opportunity to shoot a mounted cowboy shooting competition in Ashland over the weekend for my next spread for the July issue of Rural Missouri.

Thoroughly enjoyed the competition and would like to thank everyone from the three clubs that put on the show.

Amazing people, amazing competition!

Visit their sites to find out any events coming up.
-Missouri Big Irons - www.mobigirons.net
-Missouri Mounted Shooters - www.missourimountedshooters.com
-Missouri Rawhide Mounted Shooters - www.missourirawhidemountedshooters.com
-Show-Me Mounted Shooters - www.showmemountedshooters.com

You gotta check this stuff out!

Baby Bluebirds

2010-05-25T11:48:00.002-05:00

We have some newly hatched baby bluebirds in one of our boxes down at the farm. Unfortunately I think a snake got them shortly after these photos were taken.
This might have been the culprit.

Fairgrounds formerly known as Sullivan Memorial Airfield

2010-05-17T23:15:00.009-05:00

For my story on abandoned airfields across the state I traveled to the former Sullivan Memorial Airport. The yellow X on the hard-surface runway remains. The old hangers are now food pavilions and storage. The airport closed in 1991 due to development around the short landing strip. The land is now the site of the city of Sullivan's fairgrounds. Most of the residents don't even realize that the road they walk on everyday is actually a runway. To the east, half of the runway is gone to make way for soccer fields and four baseball fields. Enjoy!

My Old Friend

2010-05-10T15:56:00.004-05:00

Need a little help from my friends? Potentially.

Regardless of the season, weather or shape I am in, I cannot resist driving to the McBaine Bur Oak. Had not seen it since moving back to Columbia but she appears to be doing ok, but I am worried. The a-holes who keep driving under her crown spread I think are starting to take a toll on the ol' gal. I feel obligated to really try and step up here and help her out. Anyone got any ideas? Anyone feel the same way I do?

I have seen this tree so many times and it has brought me so much pleasure and I would like to return the favor. I hope these photographs are enough to maybe persuade some one to help me convince people to try and help this tree as much as possible.

Enjoy her beauty!

P.S. I will be unveiling a new galleries site with a ton more photos! Stay posted! To hear more recent info, visit my Facebook Page

Abandoned Heart of America Airfield

2010-05-04T14:17:00.006-05:00

Traveled to the abandoned Heart of America Airfield, just east of downtown Kansas City to photograph this abandoned Stinson 108 in a field next to the original hanger and airstrip. The hanger is now a welding shop and the runway has been turned into a storage field for mobile offices.

Osage City train bridge

2010-04-21T11:01:00.006-05:00

Traveled out to Osage City, Missouri to take some photos of trains crossing the bridge over the Osage River at sunset for a Rural Missouri story on train traveling. Shot from an abandoned grain elevator about 80 feet off the ground. Then headed along the tracks to shoot the trains as they passed by at sunset. Was lucky to get a freight train and an Amtrak to come through at very nice light. Will be traveling on the trains back and forth between Kansas City and St. Louis next week. Enjoy!

Summer is upon us

2010-04-20T17:00:00.000-05:00

Going through my archives today trying to think of covers to shoot for Rural Missouri and found this image. Taken a few summers ago in Boone County of some coneflowers in a field. Really makes me excited for summertime. As I sit in my office editing images I am getting antsy for warm weather, float trips and warm nights. Spending the evening outside though again as I head back to Osage City to shoot some photos of the Amtrak train passing over the Osage River for a spread I am working on train traveling. Check back soon!

Derecho edits

2010-04-20T15:55:00.008-05:00

Images that didn't make it into print for my spread in May's Rural Missouri - A Changed Landscape: A year after the Derecho.

Aerial view of damage taken in February of 2010. For 45 minutes winds in excess of 90 mph pummeled the woods of Southern Missouri causing over 100,000 acres of downed timber.

Clark Hinkel runs a chainsaw on a damaged property east of Fredericktown, Missouri.

Trying to make order out of chaos.

A claw grapple on a skidder.

Logger Steve Toppins attaches logs to his skidder.

Toppins attaches a choker to help skid out logs.

Toppins mans the log skidder away from mangled tree remnants a year after the derecho.

A logging truck races by a downed tree along Highway 72 near Bunker, Missouri.

Thousands of logs sit untouched at Missouri Tie and Timber in Bunker, Missouri.

Processing logs at the sawmill.

A destroyed cabin in Reynolds County.

Spring Thunderstorms in Boone County

2010-04-17T14:19:00.004-05:00

Spotted this barn off of Highway 124 in Boone County on the way back from a Morel mushroom/wildflower photo hunt at the Pinnacles Youth Conservation Area. A storm started rolling in to the south. While Columbia got down poured on, I had some epic clouds to work with.

Madison County Sunrise

2010-04-15T10:02:00.005-05:00

Before heading out on the trail to Cathedral Canyon for a shoot for Rural Missouri I couldn't resist stopping and snapping some shots of this barn. I had a great warming sun coming over the hills above the St. Francis River and a perfect subject. Mornings like this one make me not miss the mountains as much. I long for the west all the time but I love Missouri way too much to leave her. Out west it is hard to not take a bad photo but here in Missouri we do not have the large, grand vistas and valleys and peaks as the Rockies, so the creative eye must work harder. I love doing this because it really works my photographic ability and allows me to slow down and look at beauty on any level. So no offense to my buddies living the mountain life, which I am jealous of, but I'll keep my Missouri for a while.

This first image is actually a composite of two images. One exposed for the sky and one for the foreground and gate. I combined the two and erased some of one layer. I could have just done this in HDR, but sometimes HDR conversion through Photoshop looks funky so I opted out. I really need to get Photomatikix Pro or something like that.

Also a thanks to everyone who follows me. The past few weeks I have seen some great support from my friends and admirers and really appreciate it. You are the real reasons I am constantly out there shooting. Nothing makes me more happy to show people beautiful scenes or an awesome place to check out.

Cheers!

Spring bloom at Missouri Botanical Garden

2010-04-14T16:01:00.008-05:00

Before heading back to Columbia to finish May's issue of Rural Missouri I spent the morning shooting some of the tulips, daffodils, and all kinds of other flowers in bloom.

Spring Thunderstorm in Central Missouri

2010-04-05T19:03:00.004-05:00

A fairly active thunderstorm rolled through Central Missouri but really did not produce much in the way of lightning bolts in the Columbia area. Headed out east of town on New Haven Road and Rangeline. Found this old barn. Would like to shoot there again on another evening.