The Sportsman Show in St. Paul: Midwest Hunting and Fishing!

Meet Shantell!

She is a former school teacher who is now a representative for Midwest Hunting and Fishing.   As part of her job, she gets to go on wonderful adventures and write about them!

It was a pleasure meeting you Shantell!

The Sportsman's Show in St. Paul: WeFest!

Meet Mark!

 Mark is responsible for managing, sponsoring, sales and promotions for WeFest!  WeFest is a huge music festival that runs 3 days in Detroit Lakes.  So, if you are interested, in 2016 it is Aug 4-6th.   Register and find lodging soon!

The Fort Garry Hotel: The Palm Room Decor

The Palm Room has a wonderful domed ceiling with a beautiful chandelier. 

And, the lobby featured this Christmas tree.   It was quite stunning.

The Palm Room at the Fort Garry: A Band on a Friday Night

I liked this jazz band quite a lot. 

And, they had a small crowd of people that clearly knew who they were and were happy to be listening.

Nicely done, gentlemen.

The Palm Room at the Fort Garry in Winnipeg

I've mentioned before that I like staying at the Fort Garry hotel when I travel to Winnipeg.  It is over 150 years old.   And, the Palm Room is a wonderful testament to a more glorious era.  

I am often there late on a Friday afternoon because I couldn't make the last flight out.  So, I stop at the Palm Room to listen to wonderful music.

This gentleman was a wonderful keyboard player and vocalist.  And, his business card is long gone after I cleaned my office! 

Eagle Magic: With Larry

I have known Larry from Eagle Magic for years.   When I was doing a lot of traveling and when the kids were small, I decided it would be healthier to learn sleight of hand magic rather than hang around a bar.   And, the kids would have a very cool father.

The kids didn't think it was that cool.  But, I did!

I love walking into Larry's store (Eagle Magic ).  Everything on the shelves is mysterious and holds a secret.

How can you now be curious about the "Coin in the Bottle" routine??

Or, the famous Vanishing kit and color changing silks?

Thanks Larry.   You are a gracious and delightful person.   And, you have helped keep me entertained, and have helped entertain thousands of people.  

My sincere thanks!

Raptor Release: The Bald Eagle

This eagle was not able to be released.  His wings had been too badly damaged.  So, he was a permanent resident of the facility.

I thought he looked awesome. 

Raptor Release: 4 The Bald Eagle

Three birds were released the morning session.  Another three were released in the afternoon.  But, people really wanted to see the bald eagle. 

He had been hit by a car, suffered a broken wing, and had been nursed back to health.   

It was pretty amazing to see him take flight.  He basically starts from zero...with just a toss.

He needs to pick up speed quickly to gain altitude.  And, once in the air, he can go where he wants.

I was fortunate that he turned in a semi-circle back towards me.  

Then, he was on his way.

Raptor Release: 3

The first of the raptors to be release.

A Kestrel falcon.

And, his moment of freedom!

Raptor Release: 2

Local camera clubs were out in force!

And I was suffering from some lens envy.