Israeli tanks and troops have penetrated deep into Gaza, encircling towns and cities, severing main roads and engaging in intense urban combat with Hamas and other militants from the north to the south.
Israel’s government has vowed to fight the war until Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, is destroyed.
But according to satellite imagery, airstrike data and U.N. damage assessments, Israel has prosecuted its war in Gaza at a pace and level of destruction that probably exceeds any recent conflict, possibly including one of the highest civilian casualty rates in the 21st century.
Fotoclassic: A Farewell to Paceville’s Cherished Photography Shop After 25 Years
After 25 years of capturing the essence of life through lenses and creating enduring memories, Fotoclassic, the treasured photography shop nestled in the vibrant heart of Paceville, Malta, is preparing to say farewell. The Camilleri brothers – Robert, Stephen, and Peter Paul – who have managed this cherished establishment since the mid-1990s, have decided to close the shop, not due to dwindling business, but due to a shift in their family priorities.
A Journey Through Changing Times
Opening its doors in an era when digital technology was yet to invade the photography landscape, Fotoclassic became a go-to destination for photography enthusiasts. As the world around them evolved, the Camilleri brothers adapted and embraced the digital revolution. From the time when film cameras were the norm to the advent of digital cameras and smartphones, they navigated the changing currents, ensuring Fotoclassic remained relevant and irreplaceable.
More Than Just A Photography Shop
Despite the technological changes, the demand for professional photography for special occasions remained a constant. Recognizing this need, Fotoclassic expanded its services to include large format printing, catering to weddings, corporate events, and more. The brothers also witnessed a resurgence in film photography among younger generations, a trend reflective of the return of vinyl among music enthusiasts.
Signing Off With Gratitude
The decision to close Fotoclassic is bittersweet. The Camilleri brothers are grateful for the journey, the myriad of characters they encountered, and the experiences they cherished during their time at the shop. As word of the closure spread, the community responded with an outpouring of nostalgia and appreciation. Among the voices was that of prominent horticulturist and author Peter Calamatta, expressing his admiration for the shop’s commitment to quality and service over the years. As Fotoclassic prepares to close its doors, it leaves behind a legacy of captured moments, preserved memories, and a community that will fondly remember its contribution to Paceville’s rich tapestry.
There is always the risk of getting the photographer’s equivalent of writer’s block. You might discover that your photos are the same as what you shot before and you need a change. Here are some ways to inspire and motivate you including a photography challenge to get your creativity flowing.
Most of the time we get excited by photography. If we didn’t we wouldn’t be photographers, would we? I’ve certainly taken my camera for a walk and ended up with too many photos to process.
However, there have been times when I have been stuck in a rut and not inspired at all. I’ve even headed out before dawn – my favorite time of day – composed the shot I had planned and then not bothered pressing the shutter. At other times, I’ve got home and just deleted everything.
So, how can we get around waking up with the photography blues? The secret is to do photography that is out of the ordinary. For me, this means planning ahead and then setting off with a plan. But for that planning, I must have a purpose and that requires sources of inspiration.
Always Take the Weather With You
One such source of inspiration for me is the weather. Glorious sunrises, thunderstorms and torrential downpours, thick fog, cloud inversions, snow, sandstorms, and strong winds can all help to make photos more interesting.
There is a plethora of weather apps online, but for accuracy, I particularly like the UK’s Met Office app as it’s accurate. It also gives sunrise and sunset times and it’s great for planning a shoot.
Don’t Be Afraid to Be Different
I also try something different to spark enthusiasm. Here are a few things I do.
Every year, through my work, I get to handle dozens of different cameras. Some intrigue me because of novel features or clever design, while others I find bland and uninspiring as they are so similar to many other models on the market. Nevertheless, handling any equipment that’s different or new to me usually gets me wanting to use it. It’s one of the reasons I like writing gear reviews.
I’m not suggesting you must sell and change everything for a different make, although I see lots of people doing that. Top-of-the-range cameras that are just a few years old are a fraction of the price of when they were released. So, adding to your gear list doesn’t have to be unaffordable. Furthermore, lower-end cameras, even old ones, can produce fabulous results.
Currently, I’m in the process of moving home, and the place we are hoping to buy has space for a darkroom. I’m going to be dabbling with film. It’s something I’ve neglected for a long time because setting up a darkroom where I currently live is a hassle. Even if you don’t have a darkroom, it’s still possible to send reels of film off to be developed but that didn’t appeal to me. I have a collection of old film cameras crying out to be used.
Talking of old cameras, adaptors to fit analog lenses onto new cameras are widely available and affordable, as are some of the old lenses. The results can be intriguing.
I also play with different genres. I have recently started to take wildlife photography more seriously and it’s fascinating. I’ve also recently bought a macro lens, although it’s barely been out of the box, so that will be on the agenda for next year.
Getting Better All the Time
One really popular way of keeping inspired is to do a photography challenge. That is taking one photo a day, or once a week to a prescribed list. I’ve done a few in the past and they helped me hone my skills. I’ve also put a few together.
You may have noticed that the subtitles of this article are either song titles or lyrics. Below are two lists of song titles that can inspire you to take photos. I put this together ten years ago for a photography forum that has long since disappeared and have swapped some of the songs for others. The idea is to take a weekly or daily photo that is inspired by the title or lyrics of the song.
The photo can either be a literal or metaphorical interpretation, and some are harder to achieve than others. Starting January 1st, 2024, why not give it a go?
You don’t necessarily have to do them in the same order as shown below. If Winter Wonderland is better suited to June than December where you live, then it’s okay to shuffle them around. Also, If you live somewhere arid and “Gone Fishing” is impossible to shoot, slot an alternative song in there.
Feel free to post your challenge photos in the Fstoppers Gallery, or put your images in the comments here so I will get a notification. Alternatively, post them on Instagram, and please tag me (@ivortog); it will be great to see them.
Weekly Photography Challenge 2024
Help Me Make it Through the Night
Sentimental Journey
My Ding-a-ling
Got my Mind Set on You
Bless your Beautiful Hide
Oh, Pretty Woman
Superstition
Wooden Heart
Upside Down
Think Too Much
Rave On
High Noon
Let Me Roll It
Steam Heat
Monster Mash
If I Had a Hammer
Purple Haze
Hard to Handle
Little Boxes
Everybody’s Talking
Reach Out (I’ll be there)
So Far Away
Somebody to love
Half as Much
Dreamer
Hurt
Brown Sugar
Pictures of Matchstick Men
Light My Fire
When the Sun Goes Down
Wish You Were Here
What is Life?
Still Crazy After all These Years
High Hopes
In My Life
Non je ne Regrette Rien
Once in a While
Mad World
Country Road
Smooth Operator
My Generation
Up, Up and Away
Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes.
The Wanderer
Us and Them
Born to be Wild
Games People Play
Handyman
Respect
All Things Must Pass
You’re so Square
What’s Up?
Daily Photography Challenge 2024
Release Me
Morningtown Ride
Love Me Tender
The Air That I Breathe
Elusive Butterfly
You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet
As Time Goes By
You Send Me
All Those Years Ago
Changes
Mind Your Own Business
Mr. Blue Sky
Suddenly I See
You’ll Never Know
Seven Wonders
No Values
Gone, Gone, Gone
I Saw Her Again
Strange Brew
I’m Not Like Everybody Else
The Entertainer
Don’t Stop
Forever Autumn
The Beep Beep Song
Like a Rolling Stone
Black is Black
The Marvelous Toy
Old Man
Day-O (banana Boat Song)
Smoke on the Water
Me and You and a Dog Named Blue
Knock Three Times
Those Were the Days
Not Fade Away
Both Sides Now
Crazy
Cars
Your Smiling Face
The Streak
Handle With Care
Amazing Things
Time to Ring Some Changes
Lazy Bones
Don’t it Make my Brown Eyes Blue
Ashes to Ashes
Beautiful Day
Let the River Run
Brand New Key
End of the Line
Fire and Rain
Which Side Are You On?
Alone Again, Naturally
Singing In The Rain
Misty
Golden Brown
Good Vibrations
5D (Fifth Dimension)
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
Figure of Eight
Stuck in the Middle With You
Rainy Days and Mondays
Reason to Believe
My Favourite Things
Inside Out
Steamy Windows
Run So Far
What a Wonderful World
It’s Too Late
Changes
We Didn’t Start the Fire
Ol’ Man River
Perfect Day
O’ Sole Mio
Ruby Tuesday
I Can’t Forget
Telephone Line
Shakin’ all over
Blues run the game
In the still of the night
Happy Birthday
Crossroads
Wasn’t That a Party
Sound and Vision
Ticket to Ride
Love Me Love My Dog
Daydream
Afternoon Delight
You Got It
Windy
Tapestry
Everybody Knows
Summertime
A Little Less Conversation
Colors
Unforgettable
I Get a Kick out of You
I Can See For Miles
Can’t Get it Out of My Head
All By Myself
Sunshine of Your Love
Needle and the Damage Done
Jet
Another Day
Deep Purple
The Last Farewell
I Feel the Earth Move
Slip Sliding Away
“E Lucevan le Stelle” (“When the stars were brightly shining”)
Muffy and Junior may only be Maltese Shi Tzus but the two dogs are now playing a starring role helping their owner to navigate the digital world.
When 71-year-old Pete Richards was given the opportunity to receive a portrait with his two ‘mitzus’ through the Capturing Smiles project, he jumped at the opportunity.
“They knew I had a couple of puppies and asked me if I’d wanted to come along and get some photos,” Mr Richards said.
“I thought … ‘that’d be nice, because I don’t really have any’, and I’m no good with phones.”
Showcasing a special bond
Linking pet love, community and photography to build digital knowledge, the Capturing Smiles project is open to all pet owners aged over 50.
The project is run by neighbourhood houses in Launceston’s northern suburbs, and concludes with a photography exhibition celebrating the special bond between the participants and their pets.
It uses digital photography as a way of explaining how to carry out everyday tasks on mobile phones; from texting photos and discovering new apps, to finding new ways to communicate and improve language skills — each tailored to the individual.
The Capturing Smiles project combines tailored digital training with a photo shoot to improve the digital skills of Launceston senior residents.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
In Pete’s case, Muffy and Junior’s role in supporting the Ravenswood gardener through periods of poor mental health will be on full display.
“They’re everything. They go everywhere with me, go to the gardens, they’re my stability,” he said.
“By the time I’ve sat down, and they’ve come over and licked my legs or jumped up on me knee, I’m usually feeling a hell of a lot better.”
After participating in the photo shoot, participants were encouraged to take photos of their pet that will also feature in the exhibition.
For those needing extra support to develop their digital photography skills and navigate their mobile, a tailored lesson is provided after the shoot.
After suffering two strokes, Pete has embraced digital learning to keep his mind agile.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
The training has reunited Pete with his passion for photography.
“Before I had two strokes, I used to have a lot of photos … [from] when I used to go fishing and walking in the far western lakes, pictures of the dogs and my mates and all that sort of thing,” he said.
“I’d like to probably get out a bit and take a few photos, especially the places where I’ve been, and see what the changes are like.”
Muffy and Junior’s role in supporting Pete during periods of poor mental health will be showcased at the Capturing Smiles exhibition.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
‘She loves coming over as much as I do’
Anthony Palmer is a frequent visitor at Starting Point Neighbourhood House in Ravenswood, a suburb of Launceston.
After being homeless for the past four years, he and his Jack Russell cross Chihuahua, Terror, have found nearby accommodation.
“Terror and I have become a pretty big part of this community in the last seven months since I’ve moved in here,” Mr Palmer said.
“She absolutely loves coming over here, and I thought they help us and I’m quite happy to help them do the shoot.”
Anthony Palmer credits Terror as being his biggest support during four years of homlessness.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
The 55 year-old, who has lived in Tasmania all his life, credits his seven-year-old dog as being his “main support”.
He said Terror was almost as delighted as he was to appear in the photo shoot.
“We talk about it, and then she sort of gets up and starts jumping around a lot,” he said.
“She just runs around and just poses all the time. She loves it.”
Anthony, who is dyslexic, has had his life transformed through Capturing Smiles digital training by learning his phone’s voice to text function.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
Terror’s enthusiasm has now brought an unexpected new skill for Mr Palmer, who discovered the voice to text function at his training session.
“I have dyslexia … talking to texts today has taught me that I no longer have to take 15 minutes to write out a text,” he said.
“I can now do it in all under 30 seconds, check it and send it. Absolutely brilliant.”
Crucial support in one of Australia’s most disadvantaged areas
With a weekly household income of $858 per week, less than half the Australian average, Ravenswood is one of Tasmania’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods.
Taylor Bouvy, the Capturing Smiles project coordinator and a Starting Point employee, has seen community members further disadvantaged through poor digital knowledge.
She is particularly concerned with the barriers this creates in accessing healthcare and government services.
“It actually puts them at a major disadvantage,” Ms Bouvy said.
Taylor Bouvy is concerned by how Australia’s digital divide is preventing senior residents from accessing government support.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
“It means they aren’t getting the right information as quickly or as accurately as other people, it means that they might not be able to access the news, what they might be eligible for with government benefits.”
Ms Bouvy sees participation in the Capturing Smiles Project as a “small step” in connecting with digital literacy programs such as the neighbourhood house’s computer club which she runs.
“When I’m able to give them the skills to not only fix the problem, but fix the problem themselves, you see them leave with this new-found confidence,” she said.
“That’s what keeps me going.”
Taylor Bouvy wants to support participants learn how to troubleshoot technology challenges for themself. ( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
Addressing digital divide vital for community wellbeing
Pete and Anthony are among the thousands of Tasmanians requiring assistance to navigate the digital world.
According to the 2023 Australian Digital Inclusion Index, Tasmania scores the worst in digital ability with older residents facing the greatest barriers.
Nationally, residents aged over 65 record digital inclusion scores 12.1 points below the national average and those aged over 75 are registering scores 24.6 points lower.
Junior waits patiently at Pete Richard’s feet while his owner learns how to take photos on his phone.( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
For the Index’s lead author Professor Julian Thomas, age shapes a “consistent pattern” in determining digital inclusion.
Professor Thomas says the divide is also heavily influenced by economic and social factors—with 65 per cent of Australians aged over 75 paying more than 5 per cent of their household income to “maintain quality, reliable, connectivity”.
Muffy joins her owner during the Capturing Smiles photo shoot. ( ABC News: Evan Wallace
)
“People who are over 55 have consistently lower levels of digital ability than that younger group. That is a key feature of the distribution of digital inclusion in Australia,” Professor Thomas said.
“The income factor, especially when that’s combined with age … really does mean that people are a long way behind.”
The quest for a sustainable work-life balance and creative evolution is a journey many photographers (and others) aspire to. This pursuit is not just about capturing stunning visuals; it’s about achieving a lifestyle that harmonizes passion and livelihood. This interesting video shares the inspiring story of a photographer who relocated from London to Bali, seeking not only to diversify their portfolio but also to establish economic independence as a remote creative professional.
Coming to you from Laura BC, this interesting video recounts the initial steps taken to realize the dream of being a location-independent creative. The key strategy was saving money while still in London – a critical move for any creative contemplating relocation, especially when transitioning to a fully remote income. The video delves into the importance of financial planning in the uncertain world of freelance photography, where projects can be sporadic and income irregular. This practical advice is crucial for photographers at any stage of their career, highlighting the often-overlooked aspect of financial management in creative professions, and really, it applies to photographers no matter where they live.
The core of BC’s remote strategy involved leveraging her skills online, primarily through starting a YouTube channel during the pandemic. As primarily a portrait photographer, the pandemic-induced restrictions posed significant challenges. However, this period also sparked innovation, leading to the exploration of new revenue streams like online education, affiliate marketing, and brand sponsorships. These diverse income sources, coupled with a strong online community, provided the necessary financial cushion and professional network to facilitate the move to Bali. This narrative underscores the importance of adaptability and diversification in a photographer’s career, especially in times of uncertainty. If you’re interested in the lifestyle, check out the video above for the full rundown.
Rudy Smith, who was the first full-time Black employee in The World-Herald’s newsroom, began his career in 1963 — the same year Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech.
Sheritha Jones Omaha World-Herald Chief Librarian
CHRIS MACHIAN, THE WORLD-HERALD
During his 45 years as a photographer, he captured politicians, football stars, musicians and community leaders.
Being the first — and the only — Black employee was hard. It was three or four years, he said, before another Black person was hired in the newsroom.
Smith, started as a copy messenger at the age of 18. He taught himself photography while a darkroom technician at the paper. He put himself through college by working at the paper, and became the first Black graduate of the College of Communications at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Smith always loved taking pictures, but working for The World-Herald was more than that for him. Since he had been on the front lines of civil rights battles in Omaha, Smith knew that his camera could also be a tool for racial justice.
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Smith was known for many contributions, chief among them his approach to documenting life in Nebraska, in Omaha and in the city’s African American community.
He said his intention was to capture life, Black life, as it is. He saw himself more as a realist than an artist.
When asked, in 2008, how he felt about being the first Black employee in the newsroom of Nebraska’s largest paper, he said being first wasn’t important to him.
“What’s important to me is that I’m not the last.”
For Smith, his career was about breaking barriers here, in Nebraska, and he did what he set out to do.
1984: Gladys Knight and the Pips perform at the Civic Auditorium.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1968: During a daylong presidential campaign tour of Nebraska, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy abandoned his traditional speech and invited questions from this audience near 24th and Erskine Streets in North Omaha. Kennedy was in Nebraska campaigning for the May 1968 Nebraska Democratic presidential primary. Two weeks later Kennedy was mortally wounded at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1994: The musical “Dream Girls” was performed at the Center Stage. Cast members pictured wearing white, left to right, are Dee Dee Ellis, Julie Valentine, and Shirley Terrel-Jordan. In front is Rudy’s daughter, Q Smith.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1979: NAACP organizers called for a boycott of Lewis and Clark Junior High after a teacher there used a racial slur.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1993: In Trev Alberts’ senior season he totaled 96 tackles, 21 for loss, 15 sacks and 38 quarterback hurries, earning him first-team All-American honors and the school’s first Butkus Award.
RUDY SMITH/THE WORLD-HERALD
1970s: World-Herald photojournalist Rudy Smith’s work was printed in publications like Time and Ebony.
THE WORLD-HERALD
1976: Jessica Wells, left, and Veronica Howard, share some table talk at Kellom School.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Rudy Smith’s World-Herald photos through the years
Steel is in place for the Bergan-Mercy Office Building on Dec. 3, 1960.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A civil rights march in Omaha in 1965.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A civil rights march in Omaha in 1965.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Firefighters work on Louis’ Barber Shop after it was hit with a firebomb in 1968.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
During a daylong presidential campaign tour of Nebraska in 1968, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy abandoned his traditional speech and invited questions from this audience near 24th and Erskine Streets in North Omaha. Kennedy was in Nebraska campaigning for the May 1968 Nebraska presidential primary.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
The local organizational meeting for George C. Wallace’s third party on March 4, 1968, was marked by five minutes of turmoil within Omaha’s Civic Auditorium due to a demonstration by protesters that turned into a fight.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A photo of a civil rights march taken at 24th and Ohio Streets in Omaha in 1968.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Crosstown Loan Co., 1819 N. 24th St., hours after an off-duty officer shot and killed 16-year-old Howard Stevenson after he entered the vandalized pawnshop through a broken window.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Firefighters douse the flames of a church ablaze at 23rd and Clark Streets on the first night of riots on the north side of Omaha on June 24, 1969.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
It was never too cold for hoops at Kountze Park. Here, Ronnie Wright, 18, shoots over little brother Ricky Wright, 13, in 20-degree temperatures with snow on the court in January 1969.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
This photo was taken at Skateland on Aug. 5, 1969.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Bob Boozer, No. 19, averaged 15 points and eight rebounds in 11 NBA seasons, but his best years came in Chicago.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1970 PHOTO: Apollo 13 astronaut John Swigert Jr. stuck a model moon probe into a patch of Nebraska prairie and dedicated the land near 120th and Fort Streets as Tranquility Park. Swigert broke the ground for the park after stepping into space shoes and making an imprint in a slab of wet concrete.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Ernie Chambers, wearing his signature tight white T-shirt, inside a barbershop in October 1970. Chambers was first elected to the Nebraska Legislature that same year.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Sunbathers at Hitchcock Pool watch divers from the tri-level tower on June 7, 1970.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Joe Orduna scored a 20-yard touchdown in the third quarter by jumping over Wake Forest’s Frank Fussell at Memorial Stadium on Sept. 12, 1970. Nebraska beat Wake Forest 36-12.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Ernie Chambers inside Goodwin’s Spencer Street Barbershop at 24th and Spencer Streets on Nov. 5, 1970. Chambers cut hair in Goodwin’s barbershop, and the shop became the campaign headquarters for Chambers’ successful run for the Legislature in 1970.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
In a College World Series game on June 17, 1971, Tulsa center fielder Steve Bowling, right, managed to hang onto the ball, although he and left fielder Rich Stonebraker fell after the collision.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
“The World’s Largest Pep Rally,” with about 4,000 attending, was held at Memorial Stadium and filmed by ABC-TV on Oct. 30, 1971.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Bill, a 4-month-old German shepherd collie, is in a standoff with a sheep after Bill tries to get the sheep to play with him in this 1971 photo. The animals belonged to the Richard Japp family of Washington, Nebraska.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Edward Poindexter, left, and David L. Rice wait for a jail elevator in a hallway outside the courtroom after being convicted of murder in 1971.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Husker coach Bob Devaney argues with the ref about the opening play of the Nebraska-Kansas game at Memorial Stadium on Oct. 16, 1971. NU won 55-0.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Dizzy Gillespie, a jazz trumpet player noted for the way his cheeks billowed out when he played, entertained at the University of Nebraska at Omaha with an afternoon workshop and an evening concert in 1972.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Big Red fans watch the Orange Bowl in force on Jan. 1, 1972, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Loth. Relatives and friends decorated the Loth house with Big Red signs — 25 in all.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Omaha Civic Auditorium workers refinished the basketball floor in preparation for the Kansas City-Omaha Kings game in 1973. The workers are, from left, Warren Blimbing, Mike Shevchenko and Clint Walenz.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Tracy Hancock, 11, tries to read while the sparrow she rescued walks on her book. Tracy found an injured “Chirpy” in the backyard.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
1975 PHOTO: Benson High’s Mashona Marsh, left, set a state record of 13.8 seconds in the 120-meter high hurdles.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Mike Cohen, 6, front, his sister Toba, 9, Mrs. J.E. Cohan and Barbara Christensen exit the last car of the Freedom Train at its Omaha stop on Sept. 23, 1975.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A photo of Marsha Oats of 3010 N. 16th St. taken the morning of Jan. 11, 1975.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
On May 6, 1975, a powerful tornado ripped through Omaha, causing millions of dollars of damage and three deaths. This photo shows damage to an area north of Dodge Street, south of Maple Street, near what was then called Lewis and Clark Junior High School.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Mrs. Ev Merritt, left, and Sherri Merritt of Rapid City, South Dakota, help their cousin Leigh McMahill of 4900 S. 84th St. sift through the remains of her home after the May 6, 1975, tornado.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
The stir at Ak-Sar-Ben wasn’t about a horse; it was about a female jockey. Mary Bacon usually rode at New York tracks, but came to Omaha to work with Nebraskan Jack Van Berg. The horse in the photo is Valorian’s Sonny.
RUDY SMITH, OMAHA WORLD-HERALD
The thrill of victory, right, and the agony of defeat, left. Coach Bill Holliday consoles Holdrege’s Brian Kohlscheen, background, while Aurora cheerleader Suzy Sinner celebrates with brother Scott after 1976 high school Class B state championship basketball game. March 13, 1976.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Jays apply a full-court press on Jan. 16, 1976. From left, Calvin Montgomery, Oklahoma City; John C. Johnson, No. 25; Randy Eccker.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
John Lessley, 10, peeks out from a bus heading from Saratoga Elementary School to Mason Elementary on the first day of Omaha integration, Sept. 7, 1976.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Jessica Wells, left, and Veronica Howard share some table talk at Kellom School on Sept. 7, 1976.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Tom Osborne looks over the team doing warm-up exercises on March 31, 1977.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Nebraska fan Mike McCann was full of emotion as the Huskers took on Alabama in Lincoln on Sept. 17, 1977. The Huskers defeated Alabama 31-24.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Two of the coolest cowgirls in the west are Deana Biocourt, 2, and her sister Michelle, 3. They’re riding the trail in front of their house at 6611 S. 48th St. Looks like they’re in for some company. Out ahead of them is a happy looking snow hombre. On down the trail a piece is a good ol’ snow bear.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
The entrance to the Henry Doorly Zoo on July 8, 1979.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Steel from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, arrived in Omaha to be installed as part of the 13th Street Bridge over the Central Park Mall.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
NAACP organizers called for a boycott of Lewis and Clark Junior High in October 1979 after a teacher used a racial slur at the school.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
John Cavanaugh listens to George Crumbly on Dec. 9, 1979.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Nebraska basketball players, from left, Jack Moore, Andre Smith and Mike Naderer in 1980.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Brothers Mike and Dave Harris of Elwood, Kansas, prepare their pottery booth on June 27, 1980.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Michael McCarville and friends have done it again. For the past three years, McCarville has been the chief artist during the painting of a shamrock in front of the Marylebone Tavern, 3710 Leavenworth St.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Jeffrey Money, 9, supports his dad on a march through South Omaha. His father, Robert Money, was an employee at Falstaff Brewery who lost his job.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
From left, UNL Alumni Band members Bob Jenkins of Omaha, Terry Tegtmeier of Omaha and Dennis Dodge of Hebron, Nebraska, find extra protection from the rain under their drums. The Huskers played Auburn at the 115th sellout game in Memorial Stadium on Oct. 3, 1981.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Mark Mercer, left, and Sam Mercer in the Old Market in March 1982.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
From left, Actors Ann Miller, Mickey Rooney and Kym Kaminsky in a 1985 production of “Sugar Babies” at Omaha’s Orpheum Theater.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Don Leahy speaks at a press conference on May 31, 1985. In the background are, left to right, the Rev. Michael Morrison, Creighton University president; UNO student Mary Leahy; and Dr. Robert Garraughty.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Foggy conditions to the south at 14th and Chicago Streets in February 1986.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Lincoln Southeast’s Matt Nitchie pursues Central I-back Calvin Jones, who scored on the 83-yard run.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Creighton men’s basketball coach Tony Barone teaches during a kids camp on June 14, 1988.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
In 1989, Marguerita Washington, publisher of the Omaha Star, accepted the Distinguished Citizen Award on behalf of Mildred Brown from the Rev. Michael Proterra as then-Creighton President Michael Morrison looked on.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
In this 1992 photo, William Kizer, left, chief executive of Central States Indemnity Co., joins Berkshire Hathaway Chairman Warren Buffett and Kizer’s son, Central States executive John Kizer, in announcing Berkshire Hathaway’s purchase of Central States.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Kids run to King Elementary School at 36th and Maple Streets to avoid the wind on Nov. 21, 1994. From left to right are Darnell Jackson, Tryneil Lewis, Jasmine Walsh and Shanika Jackson.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Snow covered a street and crushed trees near Miller Park in Omaha on Oct. 26, 1997.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A Brenda Council supporter cheers at an election night rally in 1997. Council lost a close race for mayor to Hal Daub.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Elderly men gather under a shade tree at 24th and Parker Streets for a game of dominoes and friendly chatter on a hot July afternoon. From left to right are John Jerks, James Holley and Jimmy Lockett.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
John McNeil of Omaha hold dominoes in his palm as he ponders his next play in a game with friends at 24th and Parker Streets on a hot July afternoon in 2000. Playing with him were John Jerks, Jimmy Lockett and James Holley.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Dark and threatening storm clouds moved into the Blair, Nebraska area on April 9, 2001.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A dozen inner-city kids learned about trees and various farm careers, how to harvest corn, run a combine and about soil conservation on the Ed Andersen farm west of Waterloo on Oct 18, 2003. Maya Brown picks corn to take home.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A view of downtown Omaha looking northwest from 13th and Farnam Streets in May 2004.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Charles B. Washington Library on April 1, 2006, included Councilman Frank Brown, left, actor and rapper Ice-T, center, and Pastor Robert J. Hall.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Volunteers working the last days of the Barack Obama campaign in 2008.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
Boys and Girls Club Days at the South Omaha Club was held on Sept. 13, 2008. In the limbo contest was Asia Youmans, 9, in pink, from the North Club. Holding the pole at right is Luis Espinoza with the South Club.
RUDY SMITH, THE WORLD-HERALD
After 45 years at the Omaha World-Herald, photographer Rudy Smith retired in 2008.
Butte Irish forward Patrick Crooks places a helmet on Boone Dallesarra, 5, during a Creativity Factory Preschool field trip to the Butte Community Ice Center to watch an intersquad scrimmage.
JOSEPH SCHELLER, The Montana Standard
TEAMING UP
Butte Central’s Michael Peck (left) leads a huddle with the Maroons during the football game against Ronan High School on Aug. 25 at Alumni Coliseum at Montana Tech in Butte.
JOSEPH SCHELLER, The Montana Standard
FRAMING HALLOWEEN
Deagyn Pratt, 12, is seen from the inside a carved pumpkin while trick-or-treating dressed up as the artist Marshmello during the Treat Street event at the World Museum of Mining on Halloween in Butte.
JOSEPH SCHELLER, The Montana Standard
Chris Rosa places American flags for A Field of Honor ceremony next to the Belmont headframe. The ceremony is organized by the Exchange Club. Rosa has been a member of the club since 2014.
From left to right, Dillon’s Carter Curnow (5), Landen Peterson (50), Kee Christiansen (10), Layne Phillips (11) and Ryleigh Plovanic (73) celebrate the Beavers’ 36-35 victory over Columbia Falls during the Class A state championship football game on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Vigilante Stadium in Dillon.
JOSEPH SCHELLER, The Montana Standard
WINTER’S FIRST FALL
Snowfall illuminated with a camera flash falls on the Mountain Con during the first snowfall of the season in Butte.
JOSEPH SCHELLER, The Montana Standard
CHARGING THE FIELD
Taylor Drakos (right) leads the Butte Student section in their charge of the field after the Bulldogs’ 28-27 win over Glacier High on Sept. 8 at Naranche Stadium in Butte.
With a capture of two young pileated woodpeckers peering out of their nest, Robert Brown of Milton has won the people’s choice competition in the annual Prime Hook Delmarva Nature Photography Contest.
Brown snapped his award-winning picture while walking with his wife near Abbott’s Mill.
“All of a sudden, we just noticed them about 15 or 20 feet off the trail,” he said. “We stopped on a dime because we didn’t want to scare them.”
His shot of the juvenile woodpeckers is titled “The Lookouts.” Each bird is looking in a different direction from the nesting hole in the tree, creating a nice symmetry to the image.
Brown attributed his award winner to being in the right place at the right time. “I was just happy to get what I got,” he said. “We were shocked and surprised. We couldn’t help but snap a couple of pix and off we went.”
They could hear the adult birds in the woods nearby, but they did not return to the nest immediately.
Brown began to be serious about birding and bird photography after moving from New Jersey six years ago. He has enjoyed photography for many years but focused more on travel and family shots. Nature photography and birding became perfect hobbies during COVID, he said.
Second place in the people’s choice competition went to Bea Hickey of Milton for her photo of an owl. Her “Sleepy Owl” peering out of a tree received only one less vote than Brown’s winner.
Third place went to Buddy Scott for his “Angola Canoes.”
The People’s Choice Award is chosen by visitors to the photography show. Each visitor is encouraged to vote for their favorite photo, and the results are counted and announced after the exhibit closes. A total of 161 ballots were cast, and the competition was a very close one, with many of the photos receiving votes. The show opened Oct. 15 and closed Dec. 9.
The annual contest attracted almost 40 photographers who submitted 207 photographs in six different categories. A panel of judges had already decided on the other awards for the contest.
