Just Say Shook

Slangism 

Meet Tyrue Slang Jones. I was at the Star Lounge Coffee Bar/Dark Matter, and how could I NOT notice Slang standing there? By himself, with the shoes perfectly accenting the mural. I asked, he agreed. I mentioned how the shoes worked with the mural. He responded with "I painted that." 

Already long story short, Slang painted this mural (and the design on their coffee mugs, and much of their interior artwork) amongst so many other pieces and projects seen around the city. Amazing works of art that you just kind of take for granted because they seem to have ALWAYS been there.

Some people are just born an artist. It is effortless (or at least it seems that way). This describes Slang. Watch some of his videos and see if you don't agree.

When I see a person that I hope to get a picture of, I ask. I am not a big fan of the "surreptitious snap" - not knocking those who do it, it's just not for me. Don't get me wrong, I HAVE done it, but if possible I try to avoid it. 1), I would appreciate if someone would ask me if they wanted a picture of me, and B )it gives me the opportunity to meet some pretty amazing people.

Organization

As much as the people who live under the tracks are considered "homeless", the space under the tracks is, in essence, "home".

More often then not, home gets treated like a teenagers bedroom...clothes and food everywhere, with the attitude of "I'll keep my things the way I want it!"

But once in a while, things are left a little more organized, a little more home-y. Maybe it's just a buried memory that occasionally rises up and reminds them to tidy up.

Running Down a Dream

We've had more than our fair share of "water events" over the last couple of weeks, and today was supposed to be no different. At 4 am, the forecast called for day-long thunderstorms.

Ah, to be a weatherman. By 6 am, the forecast had changed, and we had barely any rain today. Good thing, because many areas have already hit their capacity, so hopefully they get a couple of days to dry out.

And yes, I KNOW he's not technically "running". Just not in this picture. But at one point he was, and Tom Petty never wrote a song called "Walking Down a Dream". So sue me.

Oblivious to the Noise of the World Around Him 

Wheelchair Tommy (aka Old Man) was not around yesterday when I was dropping off toiletries and clothes for the guys under the tracks. I passed stuff out to Tony, Willie, Old School, and Hillbilly, but Tommy, surprisingly, was nowhere to be found. I honestly did not think he left his couch. I told Tony to tell him I would come back today.

Back I went at lunch. The city is doing a lot of construction in our neighborhood, tearing up the streets and the water pipes all around. There was a ton of construction noise right outside the tracks on Oakley, but it didn't seem to faze Tommy. He did not move until I woke him to ask him if he needed clothes. He did. I did not realize all he had was the lone pair of pants he was wearing.

As I was leaving, he asked why I didn't bring a pizza. I replied that I thought the clothes would be enough. He said he would give up the clothes for some food. I had no money on me, so I told him I was sorry but there was nothing I could do.

As I drove away, I thought about how ungrateful that was. Then I put myself in his shoes for a minute and my perspective changed. How often do they get the opportunity to actually ask for something? I'm sure they aren't thinking "Don't be greedy." They are thinking, "It doesn't hurt to ask." I guess I can't blame them.

Taking It Back Piece by Piece

This was officially the "Oh, SHIT!" moment of the day. When you walk around the corner and you are amazed by what you see and all you can say is "Oh SHIT!".

I am firmly convinced that nature and plants are a lot more in control than they are letting on. They are quiet and they are patient, but when they want something back, they have no qualms about taking it.

Wonder

As I watch him grow, I sometimes wonder what it would be like to experience sensations again for the first time. Watching the world unfold around you. But then I remember that there are also certain fears you have that you don't understand, and they only start to make sense over time. I have vague memories of the fears I had as a child, and I'm not sure that I would want to have to learn to understand them all over again.

Tone on Tone

I love this setting. That's it. Too goddamn tired today for a story. I've had way better days.

Out of My Comfort Zone

Not what I usually shoot, but maybe that's why I like it so much.

Hello Vera
I figured Vera was going to need some "summer stuff", and I was right. She was very grateful as she always loves the "cutesy girly stuff" - Hello Kitty is her absolute favorite. So anytime anything like that gets donated (it's usually her size), I know it has a new home.
I didn't even ask Vera if I could take her picture today. As I was getting in my car, she came up and asked if I would. I didn't have to ask "Don't Smile", as it has become second nature to her. But I also think that she really likes the momentary attention, the feeling of "Somebody WANTS to take my picture!"

Can't Complain...
Yet I still do. As far as Chicago winters go, it's been a mild one. Nowhere near the amount of snow we usually see, and there are more 40 and 50 degree days than I can remember in the past. But we had some snow and a temperature drop this weekend, and it's almost like we've never had snow before. So I mutter under my breath and say "Why do I still live here?"
Then I drop off breakfast under the tracks. You can see Hillbilly's place (between the two pillars on the left. I've seen as many as three people in there at once, and I have a closet bigger than that in my apartment. That's when I say, "Note to self - stop complaining."

Nate

I had the good fortune of photographing Nate before, but there was always something about the shot that left me "wanting". I felt like I really didn't do my best. I was lucky enough to pass him on the street again today.

I have a pretty good memory, so when I passed by with a holler of "How ya doing', Nate?", he looked, recognized me, and responded with "Still walking' around takin' pictures, huh?" Conversation started, which led to my Mea Culpa and a request for another try. I think I did better this time.

Yellow Monte Carlo

The rain was kind enough to wait until we finished our jump. Got home, everything looked good until I got into my parking lot. A days worth of rain came down in about 15 minutes. Couldn't even run the 50 feet to the door, so just waited it out.This is it, Kathy and JZ. Enjoy the last week!

A Dog and A Man

A dog is called "Man's Best Friend" for a reason, but only a "dog person" would understand that.

Shorty is 15 years old. He never was the sharpest tool in the shed, but he is now also stone cold deaf, and walking isn't as easy as it used to be. But every night when I come home, I come to the front door and look in the side window. Without fail, he is waiting at the front door for me. He certainly didn't hear me pull up, and I don't think I smell so bad that he can smell me through walls. But he senses me, just like he always sensed when we were taking him to visit my son down at college.

I used to think he was senseless. Turns out his Sixth Sense is the one he's most in tune with.

The Watcher

There was nothing of interest in the garage. Just random piles of trash. I turned around to leave, and looked up...

Divine Intervention

I apologize in advance. This may turn out to be my longest story ever…

Months ago, I "re-gifted" a German version of the game Monopoly to Goodwill. Not worth the effort to try an sell it online, and I couldn't think of anyone who would want it. Until I found out (via my son) that Quinn (L) loves Monopoly, and her grandmother, Evelyn, was born and raised in Germany. She always had a VERY close relationship with her grandmother, and her German heritage.

Let's just say I've been searching in Goodwills since then looking for it. I screwed up bad.
Quinn's grandmother passed away earlier this week. It has been a very trying time for the whole family. No matter how much they were "expecting" it, it is still painful when someone you love so dearly passes.

I paid my respects yesterday at her wake. On my way home, I had to stop at Goodwill to try and find a coat (divorce can put a damper on your finances). No coat, but Alex had always told me to be on the lookout for a board game from the "Catan" series that they both love to play. He told me I most likely would not find one, because they are fairly uncommon and fairly expensive.

Someone upstairs said yesterday "You need a sign." There, on the game shelf at Goodwill, with a $2 price tag on it, was the German version of "Settlers of Catan". A 20 year old game that was practically brand new. Sometimes things just happen that make you think "This is not just random chance."

I gave Quinn and Alex the game today, as I know it was meant for them. I was just the delivery boy.

They have had a very draining week, both physically and emotionally. I'm sure the last thing they wanted to do was pose for one of my portraits where I tell them "Don't smile." This is one of the pictures that I will cherish forever because I will know all the memories that go along with it. These are the kind of pictures that make me so glad that I do what I do.

I told you it was a long story.

Heart

It was a nice and peaceful "birthday weekend" in Michigan with my kids, and my present to myself was to go exploring. My son warned me that there were not many abandoned places around that area, but I found a place that was suitable (at least for a couple of days).

2 Lamps

This room is fairly representative of the "accommodations:". 4 floors of this. They started to get a little repetitive, but we had to check them all to make sure we didn't miss anything.

Treatment Day

Yesterday was my mother's 77th birthday. I took her out for breakfast today to celebrate. But first, I had to take her to the hospital for treatment. She has leukemia, and she goes in for regular chemotherapy and neuroplasty treatment.

The advances in technology and medicine are mind-boggling. When I found out she was sick, I immediately imagined the "classic chemotherapy" side effects, that I don't need to go into here. But when I first talked to her, I was surprised to hear her sounding better than I had in a long time. A very welcome relief.

She has gone through quite a battery of medical procedures in the last couple of years, and to her credit, she NEVER complains about it. I most likely would spend an inordinate amount of time lamenting "my lot in life", but not her. She doesn't have much, but she knows she is better off than so many.

Grandmother, Grandson

This is my mother (left) and my nephew (right). I was only going to take a picture of my mother, so I was out in the garage looking for rope to tie her up with. My nephew was enjoying his phone and his cigarette when my mother came out to talk. I didn't have to look for the rope anymore.

By the way, my nephew has a full-time job, also takes night classes, and loves his grandmother very much. He is not as shiftless as he looks.

Old Man in Repose

Friday is pizza day for the guys in the neighborhood. I told Tony I would meet him on Oakley today, and, true to his word, he was there at 12:00 as I drove up. As I went to park, I noticed a figure asleep on the couch. He turned his head to look at me, so I asked him if he wanted some pizza and root beer too.

"No. I want a steak is what I want."

"Wel,, I don't have no damn steak. I got pizza. You want it or not?"

Sure, I guess. I got nothing better to do."

That was my introduction to Tommy Lee, aka Old Man. It turns out that Old Man was best friends with Too Tall, a local resident who died about 5 years ago. I told him he looked a bit like Too Tall, and he told me the story of how Too Tall died, and that he was with him when he died. He said that Too Tall knew he was going to die, and he asked Old Man to do him a favor and score him "one last rock" before he went. He got it and gave it to Too Tall, but that Too Tall didn't even smoke it. He died in the Nursing Home, with the rock in his hand. Maybe he just wanted to hold it one last time.

I'm never really sure how much of these stories are truth, how much are exaggeration, and how much are "delusions of grandeur". And since I will really never know, I cannot argue if Old Man tells me it's true.

I Got a Name

Nicknames aren't given, they are earned. They happen organically. You can SAY "I'm going to call you such and such", but it won't stick unless it has some meaning.

Dropping off breakfast this morning, Vera was animated. "I need a couple of more eggs, please. And I need a pair of socks. And I need an extra cold bottle of water if you have one..."

"I need a, I need a, I need a. I'm going to start calling you Anita." And I did. As I drove away, I yelled, "I'll see you tomorrow, Anita." It generated a genuine laugh.

That name is going to stick.

Moving On

As I prepared the final move out of the house I have known for 16 years, I felt I NEEDED to do "one more shot". I did so many self-portraits during my 365, and each of them was memorable to me. Each one was cathartic, and it helped me through a very intense, rough, and personal time in my life. So I felt I needed to do something that I would remember just as much.

This is not a "knock" on the institution of marriage, or on my own marriage. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. But if you know me, you know that I tend to give human characteristics to inanimate objects. Usually it's just toys, but I felt the same way about the wedding dress. It's 0-2, and I didn't want to just throw it away. So I used it to help me make one last "memory".

I will look at this picture for years with fondness. Fondness for the memories that were made here, and fondness for the times (good and bad) that my family had in the house.

Once was Darwin Now is Boyne

Chicago has gone from Winter to Summer in the space of 2 days. From a cold rain on Wednesday to heat and high humidity on Friday. The shade under the tracks is no escape from the heat.

Luckily, I scored a large quantity of orange juice at work today, so a drive around the neighborhood was needed. Dropped off about 12 gallons to 11 very needy people.

1 of those people was Darwin. Although today, I found out he is now "Boyne". Hillbilly corrected me when I address him as Darwin. "Who? You mean Boyne?" Boyne said "Yeah, that's what I want to be called now."
I met Darwin a few years ago. I told him he looked a bit like Mike Tyson.

www.flickr.com/photos/26178772@N02/23891617499/stats/

What, like I'm going to argue with this guy? Boyne is OBVIOUSLY no stranger to a street fight, and much worse than that.

Ivan

Ivan is just one of the reasons I love this neighborhood so much. The people (for the most part) take the time to be approachable. I remarked to Matt that I can't imagine most people who are walking around downtown are going to take a moment to listen to you when you ask if you can take their picture. They, most likely, don't want to hear a whole "365 explanation".

Yay...Graduation Day

Today my daughter, my youngest, graduated from high school. As many of you know (if you live around me), it rained pretty good last night, well into the morning. The school decided to hold the graduation ceremony outside, even tho the gymnasium was set up (inside). I asked a gentleman from the school if they were really planning on having it outside. When I informed people inside the school they were indeed having it outside, the Principal told me to stop riling people up and "making the day about" myself. Then he called me an asshole.

I will be speaking to the Superintendent next week.

Francine, SC (by way of Paducah, KY)

I met Francine (she was doing her yardwork) as I "sniffed out" an abandoned house in Conway, SC. She was the epitome of Southern hospitality. When I inquired about the "residents" next door, she explained that the previous owner had died years ago and left the house to his children, who have since left it to whatever squatters and vermin happen by.

She was afraid of posing by the barn because snakes live under there. I put my foot under it, and told her "I'll take the first bite". When nothing bit, she was willing to pose for 2 pics.

This was, by no means, the end of Francine's story, but I think I'm running out of room.

Portrait of Vera on a Hot Summer Day

While not technically the greatest picture I've ever taken, this means a lot to me. The smile on Vera's face was genuine, not staged or forced.

She wanted a portrait of herself, so with limited background resources, we made do. A chair was brought out to the street, and the background was minimized as much as possible. As I took her picture, I told jokes and made her laugh. She said she felt like she was getting her school pictures taken. And when I asked her to look in a specific direction, she replied, "Yes, father" in a jokingly sarcastic way.

While the others ate Friday pizza, we got the picture done. I spent probably an hour under the tracks talking. It was a pretty nice way to spend a hot summer afternoon.

Damen at 55 at 5

The downside to leaving the house at 4:30 in the morning to go to work? Getting up at 4 in the morning. The upside? Some pretty killer sunrises.

Xavier, or Some Good Deeds Do Go Unpunished

Long story. Bear with me or move along…

Yesterday I promised Ponytail that I would bring lunch for him and Hollywood. He seemed a bit down, more so than usual. So I picked up an extra-large pizza, heated it up at work today, and set out in my car to find them. Of course, they were not where they said they would be. Why would they?

I drove a few blocks either way, until I spied an individual pushing a shopping cart. I didn't recognize him, but I rolled the window down to talk to him.

"Hey man, have you seen Hollywood or Ponytail?"

"Hollywood? He's right here."

Hollywood indeed was standing right next to the man (his name is Ron). I gave him the pizza and a 6 pack of root beer, and made him promise that he would save some for Ponytail. He probably didn't, but what else can I do?

As I was speaking to them, I saw an individual a couple of buildings away. He was staring at us, and I assumed he was going to give me shit for "encouraging" the homeless. So I went to speak to him.

I was wrong again. I met Xavier, a local artist who is working on a commissioned mural for Chicago House, a local Social Service agency that helps the homeless. I had asked Xavier for a portrait before, but he told me he did not have the time to stop. He appreciated the fact that I let him be, and did not take a picture without his permission. So he relented this time.

Xavier was painting his mural outside for lighting sake. He explained the light outside, especially on a cloudy day, is much more even and uniform compared to what he could do inside, and he can back up and study the entire scope of the mural easier.

We spoke on a multitude of topics, from rent prices in the city compared to the suburbs, to the difference between the homeless in our neighborhood compared to downtown.

If you've made it this far, thank you for bearing with my ramblings. If not, well, that's your loss.

The Simple Things

It's funny (in an ironic way), but when we're young, we envy so much of what adults have. Money, cars, sex, perceived "freedom". But as we get older and attain these things, we yearn for the simplicity of youth - lack of responsibility, and enjoying just the simplest of things, like a beautiful day outside, and school being out for the summer.

Waiting for the Bus/ Jesus Just Left Chicago

On such a sunny day, it was pretty sad to see this woman, standing at the bus stop by herself on the corner of Western and Cermak, staring straight ahead with hands clenched, muttering something to herself. I'm not sure if it was a prayer she was saying, or what she was thinking. But she was completely oblivious to everyone and everything around her. Only when the bus pulled up and people started passing her to get on did she move, like she was wakened from a trance, and boarded the bus.

Blue and Blonde

Morgan Street Station, Chicago, evening rush hour. That is all.

So Tired

No chance to sleep last night. There was no one else under the tracks, so no protection. Vera also had to keep the fire going and stay close enough to stay warm.

The Barrels

The metal recycling plant has turned into a veritable treasure trove of photo opportunities, as long as you're into dark wet places and long deep shadows. I am.

I didn't bring a tripod, and there was only one lone light bulb in another room. Fortunately there was an old pallet in the water that I was able to use as a tripod. The hardest part was not being able to look through the camera to see how it lined up, so plenty of trial and error. And focusing was a bit of a bitch too. But anytime I get to squat in the water and kneel in dirt and grease, I'm good.

Submerged

Under the tracks on Wood Street. The little bit of brick street showing is fairly representative of the quality underneath. Driving on it is not recommended at speeds over 5 MPH.

STAR PORTRAIT

As street savvy as Star is, there is a sad realization in her eyes. She seems to have more awareness for her surroundings and her life at this point, but seems resigned to it at this point. The only thing left to do is get up, get through another day, and let the chips fall where they will.

I have no idea how I would react if I was in this situation, this lifestyle. So I don't judge how someone acts or what someone does. All I know is that there is something in their lives that led them to this point. I have no idea what it is, so it's not my place to tell them how to "deal with it."

Dwight, Wife, At Dinner

There is a community of homeless people in my work neighborhood. Once a week, I bring food. Pizza, water, cookies, snacks, fruit, etc... I don't do it so people say "What a nice guy". I do it because it reminds me of a lot of things. To be grateful for what I have, to be respectful of those around me, to treat people like I would want to be treated if the tables were turned.

I can't believe that Dwight and his wife (pictured) CHOOSE to live, eat. sleep where they do. Whether it is addiction, mental illness, just bad luck, whatever, this is what they deal with on a daily basis.

They are very grateful whenever I bring food to them. They are always very respectful to me, as I am to them. I feel a little guilty as I drive away.

Happy Mother's Day 2015

There are so many things that I love about my mother, but I think the thing that I like best is her willingness to give her all for her children. No matter what picture I have asked to do, she hasn't batted an eye. She's up for it, no matter how silly it sounds.

Had brunch today at the Warsaw Inn (Lynwood). I knew I wanted a picture of my mom, and this '70s wallpaper fit the bill. I might do one of these shots of her every holiday. A new family tradition.

Going Solo

Originally shot for "Glory Boyz" (10-08-2015). It was used as an inset along with the group shot. I received a "special request" to do this shot as a solo work. Who am I to say no?
(original description for "Glory Boyz")

Glory Boyz

As I was sitting in the street shooting this evening (see "The Great Race"), I was asked "Are you shooting a video? We're looking for someone to shoot a video."

Glory Boyz (not sure of the spelling, so I apologize if I got it wrong), are a local group and they are looking to make their mark on the local music scene. They need pictures, I need pictures, so it sounds like we can work something out.

It did not take a lot of persuading for them not to smile. And the poses and hand gestures were all their idea. But I thought it was all pretty appropriate.

As we parted ways, JR (right, yellow mohawk), yelled to me "Hey man, let's get fuckin' rich together." You gotta like the enthusiasm.

Bullet Hole

I am assuming it's a bullet hole. The other side of the wall is a closet, and there is another hole approximately the same size in the adjacent wall, directly in line with this one. Since there are similar holes in different spots around the house, I am also assuming some of the local thug life have been having a good ol' time in this house.

Dirty Green

I can only imagine that at one point, this was a fairly clean and sterile bathroom. The years have not been kind to it. I love the surreal dirty beauty of it.

The Prisoner

No Hillbilly this morning, just a lone wheelchair chained to the L pillar. I know he has a second chair, so I figure he is just out rolling down Western Avenue. But I always have that thought in the back of my mind that there is the possibility that something bad has happened.

Local Resident

One of (unfortunately) many homeless in the work neighborhood. I've been noticing him more and more as we walk around at lunch. He seems to spend his day walking his bike around, and carrying along anything he might find in his travels that he can recycle for cash (cans, pallets, etc…). It can be a very sobering site to see so much effort every day for what seems so little to most people.

Jerry, Texting

Lunchtime stroll around the neighborhood. I saw this gentleman on his phone this way. Not wanting to creep on him, I introduced myself, explained myself, and asked if I could take a couple of pictures of his back. Bemused, he asked what he needed to do. "Nothing. Just do what you're doing." He was willing to do that.

Topher, Nymeria

I met Topher (L) and Nymeria (R) while I was out walking around the neighborhood at lunch. When I first saw them, I immediately noticed the amount of space between the two as they walked. So when I asked them to pose in front of this garage door, I wanted to approximate the distance between them.

I asked Topher my requisite "Please Don't Smile" for the picture. Obviously, Nymeria did not hear me when I asked.

Aaron and Sylvester

I met Aaron and his cat Sylvester today. They frequently stay under the Metra tracks on Hoyne, because it is close to the pallet yard, and sometimes Aaron can get scrap pallets to recycle. He was a bit leery about getting his picture taken, and would only do it if he could pose with his cat.

"I love cats. It's people I don't have any use for. You seem like a good dude, though." Aaron seems like a genuinely good dude too.

Emily, Ready To Leave

I was leaving work late and had yet to get my picture of the day, so I figured I would take a quick walk around the hood before I started home. I saw a motorcycle parked, and as I was crouching to take a picture with the sunset behind, Emily (the owner) came up to get on. I introduced myself and asked if I could take a couple of quick pictures. She did not mind.

In our very brief conversation, I found out that Emily is the owner of a local stained glass gallery. She invited me to come and take a look at the studio. I think I might take her up on that.

Happy Hill-idays 

Hillbilly was in one of the clearest, most positive and friendly mood I have EVER seen him today. I usually get along with him just fine, but today he was attentive and talkative, but willing to listen as well.

I brought him the Santa hat he requested last week. There was never a day where he was out wearing it, so I never asked if I could get a picture. But he was out today, and wearing it with pride. After I gave him breakfast (and lunch), I asked if I could get a picture. "Where do you want me? Over here? Where's the best light? I want to show this one to Sandro!"Yes, Hillbilly has had his picture taken by Sandro Miller before. In the studio that is not too far from where Hillbilly resides. And this is not just a "tale", the picture is up on Sandro's website, a holiday reminder from a few years ago that we should not forget our military veterans.

Hillbilly has a LOT of tales to tell. And what I've found out is that quite a few of them are true. It really IS quite a life he has led.

John

John collects and sells pallets in the neighborhood. He has a leg up on some of the other residents, as he has a truck to transport them with.

It was unbelievably refreshing to see someone without a perfectly trimmed and manicured Hipster beard. I'm really getting tired of that trend.

Viewmaster

If you're over 40, you'll understand the title. If not, you may have to look it up. In the days before "TV as we know it", as children we were fascinated with the Viewmaster, and the fuzzy grainy pictures we could see in 3D. We couldn't possibly imagine that things could get better than that.

2 Women, Train Station, Antwerp

I shot this yesterday (Saturday), and was really torn about not being able to use it as my "picture of the day", because I really liked it, I just liked "Old Love" more (don't interpret that the wrong way!).

So instead, I am using this as my commemorative 1000 upload onto Flickr. I figured it at least makes the shot somewhat memorable to me.

People Come and People Go

We happily got Vera on a train last night, on her way home to her family, and hopefully her new life. We had a good talk before her train pulled out, and she talked about how she will miss her friends, but not life on the street. The streets have become much too dangerous, and she worries about the people that she is leaving behind.

I'm sure there is a lot of apprehension about her future, as well. She knows that she is going to have to make a lot of adjustments, and it is going to be hard to leave behind her old "way of life". But she is very grateful for the chance.

I said to her last night, and I meant it with the nicest of intentions, "I honeslly hope I don't see you again. That would mean you are happy where you are." She knew what I meant.

Southern Hospitality from Mozambique

I had to get to Fort Benning, GA. before I ran across some real "southern hospitality". Kenneth was, by far, the nicest individual I met on the road.

Kenneth works at the Thunderbird Inn in Georgia. As far as I can tell, he may own it. He was there when I checked in at 9 pm, and still there the next day at 7 am. And he showed no signs of going anywhere.

The place is a bit of rat hole, but he was very cordial, and he had no problem when I asked if I could take his picture. He mentioned that he has a double lazy eye (one is more severe than the other).

While the South as a whole might not be "backwards", the Thunderbird Inn seemed to be a step behind the times. I was particularly struck by the cash register and TWO adding machines with paper printouts. I guess just in case the first one breaks, right?

Reserved

Go figure. I go out and shoot for 45 minutes after trudging through the snow, and my favorite shot of the day is from the work parking lot. I want my 45 minutes back!

Untitled

There was no "irony or absurdity" to this situation. Hector had nothing left but the clothes on him. I had nothing extra to give him except for breakfast, so he's going to have to go through another night unless he can scrounge something up today.

The L

2 Chicago icons - The Sears Tower (sorry, I'm old school) and the "L" train. Cloudy stormy morning, and since it is presently raining outside, I'm betting this is going to be the best picture I get today (but you never know).

Chicago Hands

As I shook John's hand, I noticed how weathered they were. John collects, buys, distributes and re-sells pallets, so he is continuously lifting, storing on his truck, etc... These are working hands. I told him he had "Chicago Hands". He laughed almost derisively, but I explained. "Chicago hands. They work hard, they ain't afraid of getting a little dirty. It's how you lived your whole life." He thought about it for a second and nodded in agreement.

Johnny

I met Johnny as I was "perusing" what I assumed was an abandoned house in my area. I saw a man working on a truck, so I walked up to make conversation and inquire about the house. To my surprise, I heard 2 voices. I looked below to find Johnny hard at work, while the friend was "busy" waiting for Johnny to tell him to start the truck. Johnny asked what abandoned house I was talking about.

Whoops. Turns out that abandoned house is actually Johnny's house. Luckily I was able to extricate my foot from my mouth enough to smooth talk Johnny into a portrait. I assured him he didn't have to do anything but look at me, and I would be out of his hair.I left him with my card, because he assured me "If you think I make a good picture, I should introduce you to some of my friends."

I'm hoping I get the email or text.This is EXACTLY why I always ask people if I can take their picture. I find I meet the most interesting people.

No Name

The man has a name, his name is Hillbilly. Of course, he has a real name, but he would prefer not to share it."The shot is titled "No Name" because words escaped me as I looked at it. I couldn't think of what to name it without it sounding pretentiously poignant.

He might as well have no name. As far as society is concerned, he doesn't exist. He is basically left on the side of the road with the rest of the "trash", to eventually be swept up and tossed away. Then again, I guess he already has been tossed away.

One Man's Trash

My treasures. The owner of the plant just doesn't understand what we see in the place, and why we are there every week to shoot more. He is mildly amused by it. I'm glad I see what I see in it.

No Escape

From the metal recycling plant.

Another Lost Pair

I wish I had a pair of XXL gloves to bring to Tony every day, but the truth is I don't. Whether the gloves get stolen, lost, traded, or sold, is not my concern. But the fact that nobody should be without a basic necessity is a concern. It's pretty easy to lose a digit in these weather conditions. I've seen it happen to Hollywood, and it wouldn't surprise me to see it again.

Lunch Date

I was finally able to meet up with Levita today. I had been worried, as I had not seen her in a couple of weeks.

She was having a "rough" morning. A bit incoherent, but I sat and talked with her for a while. Tony is still out of the picture (locked up), so it is just her and Old School (who also lives under the tracks) trying to watch each others backs.

We walked together to McDonalds, and we talked about our lives. I told her this was my first "date" since my divorce, which got a laugh.

McDonalds went about like I figured it would. Lots of stares, lots of grumblings, but nobody gave us any shit. I was just ready to say "I make more money than you" to anyone that said anything snotty. And no, we did NOT go dutch. It was my treat.

Some of the food in the picture was for Old School. I hope Levita didn't eat it all.

Hugo's Yellow Boots

Hugo works with Raul. He was walking away from this blue wall when I first saw him. After I took Raul's picture (which Hugo found very amusing), I asked if I might get a picture of his boots by the wall. He thought it a bit of a strange request, but he went along with it.

Hide in Plain Sight

It was an absolutely gorgeous sunny day today, unseasonably warm. A perfect day for walking around. But Tony and Levita prefer to keep their distance from most people.

I spent my lunch time talking to them both. I talked to Levita about her growing up and going to school. I talked to Tony about my photography, and he asked if it would be possible to get a copy of the pictures I took of both him and Levita.

They both seem to understand that they live on the fringe of society, and for the most part, people act as if they aren't even there. This is why they keep their distance from people, because they understand how people would react.

They have never asked me for a penny, but I have offered them a couple of dollars. They have gratefully accepted. I do it partly because of my own guilt about what I have in life. It's not much, but it is so much more than some others do.

Approach With Caution

I did not check to see what was in it. No one did. Perhaps I should contact TSA.

From the Bottom of the Stairwell

A little bit of Urban Spelunking at lunchtime today. It honestly felt a bit like cave diving, what with everything being kind of dark and moist. Piles of old clothes, kitchen grease, and broken furniture. But sometimes those odd assortments come together in just the most amazing ways, especially if you throw in some strategically placed (by chance) broken windows. As my usual, nothing is staged, it's just a lucky find.

One Man Show

I've always likened the real estate under the tracks to a theater or a stage set. Much like a stage play, the cast of "characters" and the "props" always seem to be changing. Obviously, that is more out of necessity than whimsy.

The areas get cleaned up on a fairly regular basis WHENEVER the weather breaks. Trucks come out, with a police escort, to clean out every last bit of clothing, supplies, and sleeping quarters than anyone might have. With nothing left, those that are surviving under there have no options but to go out and rustle up something to help stay warm, or at least a little more comfortable. There is not much comfort to be found on the cold and wet concrete.

Carl

As a favor to Neil (the manager of the metal recycling plant), I graciously offered to do a portrait of him and his bulldog. So, while I was passing by today, I figured I would try to set up a time with him. No Neil. Luckily, Carl was happy to help me look for him. Plans were set, and I was about to leave. But I couldn't leave without asking Carl for a portrait. Again, he was more than happy to help me out, even though he doesn't look like it.

What Could Have Been

I've known Levita for about 11 years now. I first met her when she was "Coco". To some people, she still is. But she told me her real name is Levita, so that's who she is to me.

When I first asked to take her picture, she told me that she had modeled. "Sure", I thought in my arrogance, "YOU were a model." But I can honestly see that potential. She has a natural way of being in front of the camera.

I look at the picture from 10 years ago, and I think it can't be 10 years. It has to be at LEAST 30. And I'm saddened by what time, bad luck, and bad choices have done to her. I see so much potential that was tossed aside, some by her and some by fate.

It's days like to today that make me thankful that my life (far from perfect) turned out the way it did.

"Gotta Get My Coco Back"

Tony is entering a Halfway House tomorrow. He found a local sponsor who is trying to help him get his life on track. He knows that living on the streets is a dead end, and he isn't sure he can make it through another Winter.

Tony and Levita (aka "Coco") were inseparable when I met them. They always worked together, scavenged together, and ate together. I was never sure if their relationship was more "significant other" or "brother/sister". I'm still not sure, but she is the reason for Tony seeking a life-change. He misses her, and he sees how her life has changed since she was released from prison. He wants those changes for himself so they can be together again.

Exit Stage Left

Absolutely amazing light and amazing shadows in the barn. The floor was more solid than I would have thought, and after a while, I didn't even give falling through a second thought.

Truly magical setting (at least to me). I couldn't get up to the level as the pony, but I didn't need to. It was like they were tearing down the stage set and just accidentally left it behind.

Dondeea, corner of Damen and Grand

I met Dondeea while walking around at lunch today. I really hope I spelled his name right, I had to keep repeating it to myself to make sure I remembered.

I screwed up my first shot of him, so walked back to ask for a "re-shoot". I'm glad I did. He was sitting just like this, and I like this environment so much more.

Drifting, but Not Aimlessly

Hillbilly is the very definition of "drifter". That is not meant as a slur or in a derogatory way. It is merely the most comprehensive description I can think of for so many aspects of this man.

Yes, he "drifts" from place to place, corner to corner, and viaduct to viaduct. But in talking to him, the conversation drifts from one topic to the next. His eyes drift all around, always aware of everything that is happening in his surroundings. And yes, he is constantly drifting along the sidewalk in his wheelchair (he is missing his left leg).

But he is also one of the most interesting and amazing people I've ever spoken with. He is soft-spoken, but with an intensity that matches his gaze. He speaks intelligently. He speaks with a combination of book smarts, street smarts, and life smarts.

He has so many stories to tell about his life. I'm sure that some are true and some are "embellished". But I know 2 things. Everything he says is absolutely true to him, and I could talk to this man for hours about life.

Darwin as Tyson

I met Darwin earlier this week when I was giving Mike copies of pictures from the "old neighborhood". I photographed a lot of people in the neighborhood when we first moved in here 7 years ago, and it turned out that Mike was friends with many of them.

When Darwin saw the pictures, he immediately exclaimed "Too Tall!!" , the subject of three of the pictures. They were very good friends, and Darwin had not seen his face since he died 4 years ago.

I was going to check up on Levita today (update - she is still a "guest of the State"), but Darwin was there watching her things. He asked me if I could get him copies of the pictures that I gave to Mike. I said I would, and then I asked if he wanted copies of the picture of himself. When he said he did, I replied "Well, I've never taken your picture, so it looks like I'm taking it today." As I was taking the picture, I told him he looked pretty bad ass, a little like Mike Tyson. He said "Tyson" and struck this pose.

I don't think I could have asked for more.

Don't Mess With Mother Nature

Because Mother Nature can be an absolute bitch when she messes back.
I thought I would take a little walk into these woods and get a picture because it looked "pretty". I walk in to get a shot, and it's not what I want. So I walk a little further. And further, and further. Before I realize it, I had gotten myself completely surrounded by lakes of mossy swamp water, clinging thorn vines that were literally anywhere from 4 to 7 feet high, tree stumps, and trees that had fallen over. It was more than vaguely reminiscent of the scene in "The Evil Dead" where the trees come to life and attack.

I was stuck in this thicket for 1 hour and 15 minutes. It took me that long to cover approximately 600 yards of territory. When I finally found my way out, it was dark, I had cuts on my hands and legs, I had spent time on my back (falling over tree limbs twice), and was completely covered in burrs. I promised Mother Nature if she let me out, I would not come back.

OK, I lied. I had to get a picture of the woods to go along with the story, so I went back in no more that 10 feet to take this picture. Next time I even THINK about going back in…nah, I won't even think about it.

This was a 30 second exposure at dusk, with the ray effect achieved in camera, not in post-processing.

Time is Running

70's Noir

I was pretty much raised on film in the '60s and '70s, and one of my favorite genres was the gritty urban NY films of the '70s. "Taxi Driver". "Dog Day Afternoon". "Night of the Juggler". Seedy, grungy, sweaty, rain-soaked and neon-lit. Always a slightly dangerous undercurrent in the air, but if you belong there, people know it. On the other hand, if you DON'T belong there, people know it too.

Some days and nights, this neighborhood reminds me of that. There is a certain electricity in the air, and a little bit of swagger. I can't get enough of it.

Uphill Battle

I met with Gene and Fred yesterday, to bring some water and some hand warmers for the upcoming seasons. And every time I meet with them, I learn a little bit more about their relationship.

At first, I thought Fred was the "submissive" brother, and Gene (bearded, with wagon) was the more dominant. By dominant, I don't mean aggressive, just more in control and the "caretaker" of them both.

But as I watched them yesterday, I can see how Fred can be more assertive. As I asked him if he was going to help Gene with the wagon full of water, Fred said "Nope, he's gonna do it." He said it almost as a demand as opposed to a "matter of fact".

I stayed back. I am NOT going to involve myself in whatever roles they have in their relationship. It's not my place. This is a relationship that has built over decades, and it really doesn't matter WHAT I think, this is their lives, and they have to live them by their rules. I just try to help in any background way I can.

Reflecting Pool

Highlight of the day…Not only are my new Goodwill boots ($10) nail-proof, but they are also water-proof, mud-proof, and animal-shit-proof.

With Love

Under the tracks on Hoyne in Chicago. At first glance, the bear can seem ironic until you realize that this is home to some people, including women. Maybe every little touch makes it a little more tolerable.

Made in the Shade

9 days out of 10, I have my camera sitting neatly tucked into my camera bag on the seat next to me in the car. Obviously not the most convenient for shooting when you see "that picture" right outside your drivers side window.

Today was the 1 day out of 10. At least I got my picture of the day.

More Than This

Mom texted me during the week and asked me if I could take her grocery shopping sometime this weekend. Mom is on a fixed income, so anytime she asks for help I do the best I can. And before anybody gives me any shit, Target was the LAST stop we made, having made three previous stops in addition to me bringing stuff with me. So don't anyone accuse me of being the scumbag ingrate son who only buys his mom one lousy pack of dog food when she asks for some help with the groceries. Hell, I even told her to buy two, but she refused!I also like how Mom goes right into "Don't Smile" mode.

(photo title courtesy of Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music)

"Could I Get a Couple More Eggs, Please?"

A simple request from Vera this morning, and I obviously couldn't say no. I carry the food around for a reason, to give it to someone who needs it. and again today, Vera asked if I could take her picture. I'm sure part of it is she knows that taking the pictures are important to me. It seems that this is a classic case of "one hand washing the other".

A Friend Indeed

I'm glad to see that Vera and Boyne are together consistently. It feels like a very "brother/sister" relationship. Whenever I stop by, Vera will ask if I can leave an extra breakfast or a couple of shirts for Boyne, and vice-versa. I feel better knowing there is someone watching out for Vera.

Game Day #2

I don't see this boy for a week, and it seems like he's grown so much. 3 word sentences, and he's definitely more accustomed to seeing Addie. But no matter how much he changes, he still has that infectious (and mischievous) smile and laugh.