Blackbird

No aircraft in history operated globally in more hostile airspace or with such complete impunity than the SR-71 "Blackbird", the world's fastest jet-propelled aircraft. The Blackbird's performance and operational achievements placed it at the pinnacle of aviation technology developments during the Cold War.

This Blackbird accrued about 2,800 hours of flight time during 24 years of active service with the U.S. Air Force. On its last flight, March 6, 1990, Lt. Col. Ed Yielding and Lt. Col. Joseph Vida set a speed record by flying from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., in 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 20 seconds, averaging 3,418 kilometers (2,124 miles) per hour. At the flight's conclusion, they landed at Washington-Dulles International Airport and turned the airplane over to the Smithsonian. From The Smithsonian

Dream Job

I started a new job on June 1st as Executive Director of the Slover Library. The building is so beautiful that I have to pinch myself each day to make sure I'm not dreaming. The is the Forum with the morning sun casting a strong shadow from the Kent Bloomer ornamentation on the amazing grand staircase designed by Newman Architects. iPhone 6, Camera+ app.

In the Rigging

Working in Norfolk's authenticate urban downtown waterfront always presents great photo opportunities. This morning on the way to the office the tall ship USCG Eagle was preparing to depart following the Harborfest weekend. Sailors are high up in the rigging preparing the sails for unfurling. Next to the Eagle is Cisne Branco from Brazil.

Day 153 - Smell the Flowers

Take Time to Smell the Flowers - Sasha loves it when new flowers come into the house. We could all take a lesson from my little girl, Olympus OM-D E-M1, 1/8 sec at f/4, ISO 100.

Ritual - Day 152 #CY365

A Saturday night ritual for us is a trip to Doumar's in Norfolk Virginia for curb service and the famous "Ringo" sundae. A blend of homemade Maola vanilla ice cream and crushed waffle cones, topped with hot fudge and a big red cherry. iPhone 5s.

Quiet - Day 151 #CY365

Time to enjoy an evening caffè lungo and some quiet time. Canon 5D Mark II, 1/80 sec @ f/8.0, ISO 800, one LED Litepanel for illumination.

The Present - Day 150 #CY365

The magic button for opening the doors on Norfolk Virginia's light rail system "The Tide". You've got to be in the present and ready to press when it turns green or you'll find your self on the way to the next stop. iPhone 5s.