JULY 4TH, 2011

I'm going back wards in time now, but before I do this I have made a observation here.  On my last Post about the No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum up there in Coaldale, PA, I have noticed that I've gotten more response and comments in a shorter period of time than my other Posts that really had nothing to do with History in the area.  This shows to me that my Followers are just more interested in the Historical places that I go and see.  Also, by looking over my "Stats" it shows that my page gets more attention.  That leaves me with just one conclusion.  Keep Posting about Historical things I go and see.  It's that simple.  So be it then.  Again, I THANK ALL OF YOU for reading about what I do and where I go.

I had some much needed Vacation time and part of it was over the 4th of July.  With some time on my hands I took a trip over to the Blue Marsh Dam area just to see what's going on over there.  Blue Marsh is a huge area with lots of boating, swimming, bike riding, walking trails, etc.  I had made a Post about this area before.  The areas that are used quite regular are the boat launches, and swimming area.  Because of this the State changes each car that enters the area $3.00 just to get in. The other area's there is no charge.  I assume this is to make money for the preservation of the area.  In my opinion, I don't mind paying the $3.00 charge once in a while, but just for me to walk around the area with my Camera and not really use anything, is a bit much.  However, I would guess that they can't make exceptions for one thing and not the other.  I just won't do it that often, and besides there are other way's to get into a "charged area" by using the trails that go from one area to another.  There is always a way to beat something.  So anyway  .   .   .   .

July 4th was not very good for the weather.  Overcast skies, but on the humid side.  Still there was no rain.  In walking around the #2 Boat Launch area, I decided to set up my Camera & Tripod near the Boat Launch where I could swing the camera 180 degrees and watch what goes on.  I installed my Phoenix 28-210mm Telephoto Lens so I could reach out there and take Images of what interested me.  The Image above shows the Game Wardens on patrol.  There was only one boat that I saw.  They patrol the waters looking for people in distress, drinking in the boats, and just general Police work.  Have to keep the water-ways safe.  They must have known that their picture was being taken.  Notice the wave at the camera.

Since I could swing the Camera Lens around to the left or right, I happen to notice this fella with his Black Labrador Retriever on the Boat Dock.  He was always throwing the ball and the Lab would chase after it jumping into the water for each throw, and return with it.  The Lab would drop the ball at his feet, and be ready for more.  Here he get's ready to throw the ball and the Lab is already starting to run.

Here he goes!  Notice the ball in the upper right hand corner of the Image.  Since this was my first try at doing a "Action Shot" it took me 5 times to get the Lab and ball together.  The Image could be better, but I'll work on that in time.

Eye on the ball!  This Lab must have went after the ball more than 20 times that I watched.  He never seemed to tire of it.  He was always ready for more.  A dog like this must be a whole lotta fun to have around.

Return with the ball and ready to go again!

I must have been in my spot for over and hour just watching what goes on.  My Phoenix Lens can see most everything that I do, but even better.  People out just enjoying the Holiday with their Family, or friends.  Never saw any alcoholic beverages, but I'm sure they were there.  Just kept out of sight from the Wardens.  Didn't see any drunken behavior, either.  Being the Captain of your nice boat and drinking do not mix well.  Besides, no beer or alcoholic stuff is allowed in the area.  A nice hefty fine will await you if caught!  Say, $1000!

I spent close to 3 hours over here just walking around.  I found that most people were very friendly.  Not like in other case's where they are rude and obnoxious.  I have no time for rude people!

BTW - whats up with the "New" Blogger look?  It's different than before.  Maybe that's why some were having trouble with their Blogs.  I never did.  It just showed up here on the screen.

Until the next time  .  .  .  .  Thanks for reading & commenting

Les