ohio

Pressure

Copyright Jeff Ball 2010

I’ve always had a fascination with water towers. I’m not sure what it is about them but since I was a kid I’ve been attracted to them. During my trip to the rust belt, I took the opportunity to shoot a lot of water towers. Many of which I’m sure I will post on the site.

The potential energy of these towers is very interesting. Huge amounts of water stored in a tank on top of a building could have devistating effects. At the same time they represent an early technology that provided access to water and water pressure for buildings and whole communities.

This shot was taken in Toledo, Oh at sunset.  The building is located right downtown along the Maumee river and serves as a reminder of simpler days.

Walleye Run

Copyright Jeff Ball 2010

The Walleye Run in the Maumee River in Toledo, Oh is a big event each year. It’s so big, Toledo has named it’s professional hockey team, The Walleyes, who are actually in the playoffs right now. Each year the Walleye come up the Maumee river to spawn and it attracts hundreds of fisherman each year. At peak times, you can see fisherman of all ages, sexes and races fishing shoulder to shoulder. Some fish waste deep in the water with their waders, nets and stringer lines and some fish from small boats in the middle of the river.  Despite the method, most leave with at least one fish on their line.

It’s also great business for local bait vendors and sports equipment retailers. There is a certain set of gear that it seems all fisherman must have. Those who don’t have the proper gear look awkward and amateur.

This shot was taken at dawn near Sidecut Park in Maumee, Oh.

High-Level Bridge

Copyright Jeff Ball 2010

The Anthony Wayne Bridge, a 3,215-foot suspension bridge crossing the Maumee River, has been a staple of Toledo’s skyline for more than 70 years. It is locally known as the “High-Level Bridge.” This bridge is an iconic image in Toledo.

This shot was taken today at sunset with my brother Joshua. We’ve been shooting together all weekend and plan to do the same next weekend.