Flats Fall

Oarsman at Jefferson Bridge Pilings (Click on Images to Enlarge) © Stuart Pearl 2009

Cleveland's brownfields sport their pallet of seasonal colors. And the Flats is no exception as we approach the Fall color peak. Even in the absence of nature's colors, light beams can make interesting patterns among the bridges and beams.

"Bridge Beams" from east bank of the Flats.


If I don't shoot at least several dozen pictures a week I gett antsy. To satisfy these urges I shoot weddings, social events, promotional work for WVIZ/PBS and the Cleveland Landscape. And the best way to do the latter is to take my camera to work. This affords me the best opportunities for interesting light.

Statuary at Federal Courthouse Building

On the early morning trip downtown or the evening return home, some of the most interesting shadows and contrasting textures fall across the landscape. Every day is different. And because Cleveland's weather is so changeable, the quality and intensity of light can change from minute to minute.

Skyscraper canyons often create unpredictable wind tunnels for the unsuspecting pedestrian. The body can be struck by the random icy blast. The same holds true for lighting. The eye can be wonderfully surprised by the unexpected beam of light spotlighting a red Maple against the canvas of dark office windows.

The Innerbelt Bridge spans not only the Cuyahoga River, but woods that support deer and other wildlife. It's only a matter of exploring the side roads and abandoned building sites. Powder white and gray bridge piers provide interesting counterpoint to bright yellow leaves.

Arches of the Terminal Viaduct have framed Cleveland's skyline since the late 1920's. Today they support RTA train traffic from Tower City to the West 25th Station and beyond.

View From Columbus Road Bridge

Want to see more images of Cleveland's skyline and the industrial flats? Click here. Other photo galleries displayed by Stuart Pearl can also be seen at this site: http://www.pbase.com/sapearl/root

The Ken Burns Effect In NE Ohio

Ken Burns at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park All Images © Stuart Pearl 2009

The Ken Burns Effect describes a popular video pan and scan technique that filmmakers use with still photographs. It focuses the viewer's attention on key elements of a picture and creates heightened interest by zooming and moving across the scene.

Blue Hen Falls - CVNP (Click image to enlarge)

Burns had a similar effect on his audience as he spoke to a crowd of 200+ picnickers at the Happy Days Visitor Center on August 2, 2009. He was in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park promoting his new documentary "The National Parks - America's Best Idea .

It was directed by Burns and written and co-produced by Dayton Duncan. WVIZ/PBS coordinated his visit to the Happy Days Visitor Center , giving supporters a chance to preview excerpts from Burns' new film.

This six episode series is scheduled to broadcast on PBS stations September 27 - October 2. You can a see a short segment of this film by going to the following video link.

Brandywine Falls - CVNP

Prior to his talk, Burns worked with the WVIZ television staff to produce several videos promoting the film. The Happy Days Visitor Center provided the backdrop.

Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 it is actually within the Virginia Kendall State Park .

The bronze statue commemorates the work of all the CCC workers from that era to those who maintain current park facilities. The CCC provided jobs and education for men between the ages of 18-25.

Videographer Rich Geyser and Director Jane Temple

WVIZ/PBS production crew filming promotional commercials.

Burns arrived about 3:30 P.M at Happy Days in his rental car. CVNP was on his route to Chautauqua and then Acadia National Park in Maine. I was immediately impressed with the 56 year old filmmaker. His hair was thicker than any I've seen in my own mirror in years.

CVNP CEO Deb Yandala with Ken Burns and Ranger

Ken Burns is an excellent public speaker. He is passionate about his documentary projects and his words carry the conviction of his beliefs. He's also very approachable and a pleasure to chat with.

Teddy Roosevelt was a major proponent of the National Parks. Through legislation, lobbying and personal exploration his efforts insured the creation and preservation of these natural resources.

Carriage Trail Path - CVNP

Cuyahoga River at Rt. 82 Bridge last winter (Click on Image to Englarge).

T.R. figures prominently in Burns series. He once said "it is the preservation of the scenery, the forest, and the wilderness game for the people as a whole, instead of leaving the enjoyment thereof to be confined to the very rich. It is noteworthy in its essential democracy, one of the best bits of national achievement which our people have to their credit".

Beaver Marsh, early Spring (Click image to enlarge)

This documentary took approximately 10 years to produce with an investment of $15 million dollars. And like all of his projects, it keeps Burns travelling. He spends about 150 days on the road each year filming, at speaking engagements, and promoting his projects.

July 29 was Burns' birthday - which was spent in his automobile. In small consolation the Happy Days picnickers sang happy birthday to the film maker.

Burns says that he is making the same film over and over again. "Who are we as Americans?" This is the question addressed in "The Civil War," "Jazz," "Brooklyn Bridge," and "World War II." Now he examines the question from the perspective of America's National Parks.

Ken Burns and Stuart Pearl - CVNP 8/2/09

A Nashville 4th

All Images © Stuart Pearl 2009

Some front yards have simple flower beds. But this particular Nashville lawn had been taken over by a 40 person brass orchestra. That's how they celebrate the 4th in some Southern towns.



Band Leader Jay Dawson

Jeanne and I had driven to Nashville to spend the recent holiday with our youngest daughter and new husband. We were also meeting friends at a dinner theater where one of them was the star. Her name is Betty Davis - seriously. She changed it to "Davis" a couple of years ago when she married our friend G.R. Davis.

G.R. and Betty Davis

G.R. is a professional musician and man of many talents. His expertise includes the tuba, string bass and electric bass. He plays with a couple of bands and also teaches music at Vanderbilt University.


G.R. Davis - Computer programmer by day, teacher by evening, musician at night.

He had invited us to this block party which is now in its 33rd year. Pat Burton is the gracious host who volunteers her front yard and other resources for the event.

The block party is not advertised or actively promoted. In spite of that several hundred people attended, something which happens each year.

Singer Nan Gurley

Adolpho Birch - Former Chief Justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court, speaking to the guests.

The first activity is the 4th of July Parade which lasts about 15 minutes. Decorated bicycles, children and their parents first march one way down the street in front of the band, make a U-turn and return a few blocks later.

Mom pointing out what happens to children who misbehave.

After the parade, residents enjoyed cold drinks from ice filled canoes as well as a large hospitality tent containing fried chicken, fruit, pastries, and other regional food.

By three that afternoon residents were returning to their homes and we started making our evening plans. G.R. and Betty have a three bedroom cabin on five acres just outside of Nashville. There is also a pasture and small barn on their property for the two horses.

That evening we grilled burgers and whipped together some homemade peach icecream. G.R. has the old fashioned hand churn for this purpose.

You first add the following to the churn: ice, rock salt, cream, several raw eggs, a bit of sugar and some frozen peaches. Then you have new son-in-law Drew vigorously crank the mechanism for a little while. The end result was delicious and unlike anything I have had in a restaurant.

Click on Image to Enlarge

Late afternoon it began raining, with a brief break for a few quick photos of the pasture and barn as the mist was rising. Thunder had spooked the horses so they weren't coming out of their shelter.

Click on Image to Enlarge

Soon after these were taken the rain restarted in earnest. Any plans of going downtown to see fireworks ended when tornado watches and warnings began scrolling across the TV. We settled for watching the the celebrations from D.C and Boston on G.R's 47" flat panel. That was very satisfying and much drier.

Globe In A Glass

"Photographs Copyright Stuart Pearl 2009"

Globe In A Glass is one of the annual WVIZ/PBS fundraisers held in Cleveland's IdeaCenter. This year's event was attended by about 400 guests on July 18.

Attendees were able to sample a hundreds of wines from around the world, a seafood bar provided by McCormick & Schmick's, as well as a variety of creative desserts from a pastry buffet.

"Chefs and Manager from the Beachwood McCormick & Schmick's"

Floral arrangements provided by Flowerville of University Heights.

Normally the WVIZ Smith studio is used for broadcast and programming functions. For the Saturday event it had been converted into a reception buffet and coffee bar.

A pastry bar was set up in the Gund Dance Studio.

You can see a short video clip of the event by going to this WVIZ link and clicking on the image.

Producer Jane Temple and Vidographer Milan Jovanovic

President/CEO Jerry Wareham, Special Events Mgr Ella Fong McCormick & Schmick's Mgr.

A silent auction was held at the fundraiser with jewelry, wine, glassware and a variety of products donated by local vendors.

While photographing the event I met a number of people from around the United States as well travellers from Europe. Events like this provide a nice addition to the variety of activities that can now be found in Cleveland's Playhouse Square district.

If you didn't have a chance to attend Globe In a Glass, you may want to consider coming to the World Series of Wine which will be held November 5-7, 2009. Check the WVIZ website for further details.

Fountain Playing - Decatur, Georgia

"Celebration" by Gary Price. (Click Image to Enlarge )
All Photos Copyrighted 2009 Stuart Pearl

I do little out of town travel for my job, but enjoy taking my camera when the trips become necessary. A change of venue is always good for an active lens. Most of last week was spent in Decatur, Georgia in a training class. Evenings were spent exploring the restaurants - and taking pictures.

I'd never visited Decatur and didn't know what to expect. It's about a half hour east of Atlanta. You can't fly there directly from Cleveland. It's necessary to take one of those sardine can commuter jets into Atlanta/Hartsfield which claims to be the largest airport in the world. Based on how much we had to walk I can believe that; the terminal has it's own subway system between concourses.


Decatur is an extremely charming city. It's residents are friendly and the beer is excellent. Tree covered winding roads connect beautiful neighborhoods of old mansions, with urban areas and commercial districts thrown into the mix. It's easy for the non-resident to get lost. We proved this several times with the rental car.


The old town center is built around the Dekalb County courthouse. Late afternoon views of the classic architecture remind me of scenes from Back to the Future.

Adjacent to that is a newer pedestrian mall and shop area that features some beautiful public art and sculpture. I talked to a resident who didn't care for the newer deco look, but to my eye it offered an interesting contrast in differering shapes and textures.


Most interesting was "Celebration" by Gary Price which is featured at the top of this article. Part of this statue's inscription is dedicated to Elizabeth Wilson, who was Decatur's first African-American mayor with her election in 1983.

Creative Voices - An Evening With Ruby Dee, Susan Stamberg & Michael York

The Actress Ruby Dee

All Images Copyright 2009 Stuart Pearl Photography

"You have very warm hands." These were Ruby Dee's comments to me when I recently met her at a local PBS function. I had just shaken hands with this grand lady of Broadway, and was thanking her for being such a cooperative photographic subject at this cultural arts event.

On May 27, 2009 WCPN/WVIZ Ideastream hosted a reception in the Idea Center for the 2009 Creative Voices Summit.

Special NPR correspondent Susan Stamberg, actors Michael York and Ruby Dee attended the reception prior to Thursday’s discussion. The panel was charged with discussing how the cultural aspect of a community can be reflected in it's arts.

As a volunteer photographer for Ideastream this was one of my more challenging events. It was like shooting three separate wedding receptions in the brief span of two hours.

Each of these people is fascinating in his or her own way. And each was different in the way they presented themselves to my camera.

Ruby Dee is originally from Cleveland having been born here in 1924. She is a gracious woman with a genuinely warm and friendly smile. Open to easy conversation, I can imagine chatting with Ruby about her early days in the city. She was a pleasure to photograph and very accommodating to my informal poses.

Part of Ruby Dee’s early history includes the Karamu Theater. Karamu House Inc. is the nation’s oldest multi-cultural arts institution. That organization helped launch an acting career which spans over 50 years.

Karamu’s Executive Directory Gregory J. Ashe conversing with Ruby in the Smith Theatre.

Art Falco, President and CEO PlayhouseSquare (left) Michael & Pat York, and Colleen Porter, Head of PHS Education.

Other than the fact that Michael has more hair, better looks, nicer suits, worldwide success and impressive acting talent, he and I are quite similar. Amazing – he’s nine years older than me and yet looks younger. I need to work out more.

Born in 1942 he got his start in theater and now has over 60 screen credits.

Michael York chatting with Susan Stamberg, Smith Studio (Idea Center).

Just a few of his films include Logan’s Run, Cabaret, Murder on the Orient Express and The Three Musketeers. He has also appeared on TV in episodes of Law and Order and The Simpsons as well as other productions.

Former Karamu board member Bracy Lewis (left) and current Artistic Director Terrence Spivey chat with Ruby during the reception.

"Your flash didn't go off." This was my first encounter with Susan Stamberg as she entered the Smith Studio at Ideastream. Sharon Herene of Ideastream (left) during Susan Stamberg’s introduction.

The flash DID go off for my first shot as she walked in with the staff. But I wanted to get a second, closeup image as she began talking with the guests. Unfortunately the strobe hadn't recharged yet.

It was clear by the tone of her comment that she would wait for that second shot, but only if I was quick about it. At least that was my impression of this embarrassing moment.

Susan Stamberg is an impressive and imposing individual. When she enters a room people seem to naturally move in her direction. The want to hear what she has to say. According to the official NPR bio “Stamberg is the first woman to anchor a national nightly news program, and has won every major award in broadcasting.”

Susan was a challenge to photograph in this setting. Anybody she chatted with received her full and focused attention and it was obvious the guests appreciated this consideration. This almost made me the intruder then when trying to have her face my camera. She was friendly and cordial and gave me my shots. But the attendees were her first consideration – as it should be.

Michael York and wife Pat in the WVIZ/WCPN Idea Center May 27, 2009

I can imagine sitting in a coffee shop reading the afternoon paper with Michael York. He just seems like a relaxed comfortable guy. With a quiet and laid back manner he and his wife Pat easily moved about the Smith studio chatting with local supporters of the arts.

Mark Filippell an Ideastream board member, introduced York and joked that even though the actor and wife Patricia live in Hollywood, they've been married for 40 years which is unusual for actors in that city.

Pat York is a very accomplished photographer and writer in her field. She has published several books and her work as been exhibited in museums around the world.

Pat York, photographer/writer with husband Michael York.

Additionally she has worked as a writer and photographer for Vogue, Time, Newsweek and Life just to name a few. Photography credits include portraits of Bobby Kennedy, Timothy Leary, Jack Nicholson, Andy Warhol and many others.

Michael was keynote speaker the following day at The 2009 Creative Voices Summit & Arts Education Day Luncheon in the Allen Theatre. Sponsored by Cleveland State University, the talk further discussed the state of the arts today.

Jesse Rosen, arts panel member and President of the American League of Orchestras.

Preceding the luncheon, WVIZ/WCPN was hosted the Creative Voices at the Idea Center summit in Westfield Insurance studio. Moderated by Susan Stamberg, the panel included Ruby Dee, Jesse Rosen, Tomothy Rub and Sari Feldman. Responding to questions from the audience, the group gave their views on the current state of the arts.

Ruby Dee, Dr. Joanne Schwartz, Dr. Michael Schwartz President of CSU, and Sari Feldman, Executive Director – Cuyahoga County Public Library.

Architect Philip Wasserstrom And Timothy Rub, Director of the CMA

Kit Jensen, COO of WVIZ/WCPN Ideastream with Buffy Filippell President of Teamwork Consulting.

Jonathan Forman and Susan Stamberg.

Smoky Mountain Fall

All Images © 2008 Stuart Pearl

The clouds are beneath your feet. But you can easily change chairs for a different view. Every morning showcased a unique sunrise. Sometimes it was a mass of cotton candy filling the bowl in front of the deck.

Other mornings you could see blue gray peaks just breaking through the gauze. Certainly no two sunrises were alike, and each new canvas was special in its pallet of colors.

For years Jeanne and I had talked about visiting the Smoky Mountains. We finally made good on that plan in early October, shortly before my unexpected surgery. Planning such a trip starts out simple and Jeanne is an expert in the task.

We find a “green spot” on the map and then google for cabin rentals in the vicinity. Now the planning gets complex. She has tremendous patience as she reviews at least a hundred different venues. But she always makes excellent choices.

Switchback road to Sky Cove cabin

The particular rental was at 3500 feet. It was also at the end of a narrow, single lane, winding road with frequent hairpin turns. Second gear was recommended for the ascent…as well as the descent.

Our "Rental"

It’s not often I see the temperature gauge change in front of my eyes. But once we arrived at our “Sky Cove” cabin, the view was worth it.

This cabin was actually nicer than our home. We wanted our kids and their guys to join us so we rented something with multiple bedrooms. Unfortunately work and school didn’t give them the necessary free time.

Jeanne relaxing with a book after dinner

Our deck looked out upon the southern part of the Smoky Mountains. It gave great views while reading or enjoying dinner. There was a different sunrise or sunset to photograph everyday, and it was difficult to select the best images.

Livingroom and spiral staircase to the loft bedroom.

Our rental was just outside of Bryson, NC which is nearby the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Bryson is small and the main industry is now tourism.

"Downtown" Bryson, NC and Smoky Mtn. Scenic Railway

The Recession has hit this area hard. Evinrude Motor, numerous furniture manufacturers and other businesses have moved out over the past few years. If not for the gift shops, lodging rentals and new Indian Casino, income would be difficult for the area. Some still do survive on agriculture though.

One enjoyable day was spent riding the Smoky Mountain Scenic Railway.

It leaves Bryson on a 44 mile round trip traversing both the Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers, with stunning views of Lake Fontaine and their tributaries.

Approaching the Nantahala Gorge

We met a number of interesting folks from all over the United States. The train has conventional seating was well as an “open air car”.

This allows photographers an unobstructed view of the landscape.

Lake Fontaine with houseboats (below)

We also indulged our passion for hiking. Over the course of our five day Smoky stay we went on three hikes of varying difficulty. The easiest was the trip to Clingman’s Dome.

The walk to Clingman's Dome

On a clear day you can see a number of mountain tops across various states. Unfortunately fog hit the observation point the moment we arrived.

Jeanne at creek crossing on Alum Cave trail

Our most enjoyable trek was the hike up to Alum Cave Bluff. This was a 1,400 foot ascent over a one way distance of two miles.

Stu taking a break on Alum Cave hike

Anytime we do a hike of this duration and difficulty we pack lunch and plenty of water. At this time in our lives we’d quickly run out of energy without the additiona calories.

We stopped halfway up the trail at the “cave” and enjoyed our PB&J’s. Further up there is a permanent overnight camp with hot meals and showers, but that’s for hardcore backpackers. After chatting with some fellow hikers we began our 90 minute descent.

Jeanne and Stu at Alum Cave Bluff

The Smoky’s are really a beautiful place. Hopefully we can entice our extended family to join us the next time we return.

Sunset on southern range of the Smoky's

Like to see high resolution images of these views? Check out my Smoky Mountain Gallery on the web.

An Evening With Kai Ryssdal

All Images © 2008 Stuart Pearl

Special access can provide a photographer with some interesting subjects and opportunities. It may be a new vantage point in the Cleveland Flats. Or it can mean an introduction to media personalities.

This is how I got to chat with Kai Ryssdal back on September 25. He is the host of Marketplace on American Public Media. It was also the last photo shoot I did prior to my current injury and subsequent disability.

Jane Temple of Ideastream watches Ryssdal from the Ideacenter control room.

Kai is a charming and gracious individual with a terrific radio presence, whose unique name has Norwegian origins. Although he has hosted Marketplace since August, 2005. journalism was not always his background.

Prior to this he was a carrier based Navy pilot for eight years, a Pentagon staff officer, and a member of the United States Foreign Service .

Relaxed and wearing colorful suspenders with a theater motif, Kai and I talked as he prepared for his 6:30 PM Marketplace broadcast from WCPN’s studios.

He actually did most of the talking while I snapped candid portraits. Kai was in Cleveland to speak about the current financial crisis. That morning he responded to callers on The Sound of Ideas with Dan Moulthrop.

Later that evening Ryssdal spoke before a sell out crowd of over 200 people in the Westfield Auditorium at the Ideacenter. The Glenmede Corporation and Alpha Group Agency were sponsors of the evening.

Ryssdal traced origins of the current financial crisis, pointing out similarities and differences between 1929 and the present. He then followed up with questions from the audience. Some of the audience interaction took on a debate aspect.

I photograph a variety of subjects - it’s not all weddings or the Flats. In addition to my event and fine art photography, I donate time to the Cleveland NPR and PBS affiliate, WVIZ/WCPN Ideastream.

Several times during the year I will be contacted by the staff regarding station events.

Not only is this a fascinating community organization, but I’ve been able to meet film makers, on-air talent like Gwen Ifil and Dick Feagler, and also a number of interesting station personalities.

Ryssdal speaking to audience members on September 25, 2008.

Flats Featured in Holiday Card

"Winter Arches" © 2008 Stuart Pearl

For more than 100 years the Cleveland Sight Center has served people of all ages who are visually impaired or blind.

Each year the Center has a holiday card sale which features the work of local artists, illustrators, print makers and photographers. All proceeds benefit the Center and aid them in providing programs and services for those in need.

This year I was very fortunate to have "Winter Arches" selected as one of the Holiday cards they are offering to the public. The image features an early morning view of the Detroit Superior Bridge taken last February during a bitter cold snap.

Other cards feature the work of Seth Cwast, Andrew Morell, Fran Bayless, Jeanne Regan, Al Fuchs, and famous 20th century artist and industrial designer Viktor Schreckengost. All cards are now available for this holiday season. Visit the Sight Center Sale and support a Cleveland institution.