Description: Winter Sighting of the Greater Roadrunner © Debra Martz It was February 1st, 2024 and this was the first sighting of a Roadrunner since the freezing winter of 2020-21. Prior to that year, we saw at least one every time we went to the Great Salt Plains State Park in northern Oklahoma. I hope this is a sign of more to come. Some digital effects have been applied mainly to the ground. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20240201-DSC_9185-Edit.tif
Description: Sandhill Cranes Morning Departure © Debra Martz The Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in northern Oklahoma is a great place to see 1000s of Sandhill Cranes during fall migration. In addition to the Cranes there are hundreds of small, unidentifiable birds in the sky as well...only seen as dots. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20231105-DSC_8875.NEF
Description: American White Pelican Calmly Watching by Debra Martz A single pelican was standing calmly on the dry spillway...maybe wondering where all the fish had gone. Captured at the Great Salt Plains State Park in Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Feathered Friends 20231022-DSC_8806.NEF
Description: Sydney and Nautical Flags © Debra Martz I saw this sign and the flags spelling out the name SYDNEY at the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion while waiting to board the ship. Nautical flags are made with a sequence of 26 flags to represent a letter of the alphabet. There are also ten numbered flags, one answering pendant, and three substitutes or repeaters. When on an ocean of large body of water, they may be used as signals such as *S or Sierra - engines are going astern or * Y or Yankee - I am dragging anchor, etc. But here, they simply spell out the name Sydney. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-40-45_992-Edit-2.tif
Description: The Big Fiddle Sydney Nova Scotia Canada by Debra Martz Information Plaque Read: "The World’s Largest Fiddle located on the Sydney waterfront next to the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion greets visitors as they arrive via cruise ship. The fiddle and bow reach a height of 60 feet!" Made of solid steel, the giant fiddle was dubbed FIDHEAL MHOR A’ CEILIDH or the “Big Fiddle of the Ceilidh”. Ceilidh is a Gaelic word which translates into "visit." The Big Fiddle, as many call it, was designed and constructed by Cyril Hearn in 2005. It is a tribute to the folk music and traditions of the province’s Celtic community. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-3
Description: Merchant Mariners Memorial Sydney Nova Scotia 2 © Debra Martz This sculpture on the waterfront recognizes the wartime contributions of the merchant navy. During WWII, Sydney became an assembly port for materials needed for war and was often referred to as the lifeline to Europe. The convoys shipping these materials were often on merchant ships never intended for the open seas. Voyage after voyage they saw dozens of ships go down. For those who survived, they faced hours, even days, on an open board and barrel raft. For thousands of others, there was only the eternal sea. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-23-40_944
Description: Merchant Mariners Memorial Sydney Nova Scotia © Debra Martz This sculpture on the waterfront recognizes the wartime contributions of the merchant navy. During WWII, Sydney became an assembly port for materials needed for war and was often referred to as the lifeline to Europe. The convoys shipping these materials were often on merchant ships never intended for the open seas. Voyage after voyage they saw dozens of ships go down. For those who survived, they faced hours, even days, on an open board and barrel raft. For thousands of others, there was only the eternal sea. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-23-15_892
Description: Port of Sydney Boardwalk Cape Breton © Debra Martz The Sydney Boardwalk is located on the waterfront of downtown Sydney, convenient for shopping and dining. It is a leisurely 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km) to stroll from town back to the ship at the Joan Harris Cruise Terminal. The MSC Meraviglia is seen docked in the distance. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-73-Edit-Edit-Edit.tif
Description: The Orangemen War Memorial Sydney Cape Breton © Debra Martz The monument is impressive, standing at a height exceeding three meters, and is inscribed with the names of 61 individuals from Nova Scotia who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. These brave men were all affiliated with Orange Lodges in Cape Breton County. At a meeting in Feb 1919, in the Orange Hall in Glace Bay, a proposal was made to build a memorial for the Orangemen from Cape Breton County who died in World War I. With the support of other lodges, the Glace Bay Lodge erected a monument in Sydney in 1921. Since then, annual services have been held at Wentworth Park to honor the Nova Scotian Orangemen who lost their lives in the war.
Description: Anglican Church of St. George Sydney Nova Scotia by Debra Martz St. George’s Anglican Church, the oldest Anglican Church and building in Sydney, holds immense historical significance. Built in 1785 by engineers from the British 33rd Regiment of Foot, it became a parish in 1791. The church, mostly unchanged since its 1873 renovation, holds historical value and features a cemetery where many early citizens of Sydney are buried. The only major change was the construction of a crypt in 1974. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-7-SR-Edit.tif
Description: St Patricks Church Museum Sydney Nova Scotia by Debra Martz St. Patrick’s Church, originally built as a Catholic Church in 1828, now serves as a museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Sydney, Nova Scotia, and Cape Breton Island. The church was restored by the Old Sydney Society in 1966. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231011-2-Edit.tif
Description: Irish Settlers Celtic Cross Charlottetown Canada by Debra Martz From the Plaque: The Irish Settlers Memorial honors over ten thousand early immigrants to the island. The granite Celtic cross symbolizes both Ireland and Christianity. The memorial faces the harbor at three tides where the immigrants entered upon their new lives.
Description: Irish Settlers Memorial Charlottetown Canada by Debra Martz From the Plaque: The Irish Settlers Memorial honors over ten thousand early immigrants to the island. The granite Celtic cross symbolizes both Ireland and Christianity. The circular terrace embraces thirty-two flagstones, distinctive relics imported from each of the counties where the settlers had originated. The memorial faces the harbor at three tides where the immigrants entered upon their new lives. ( I have another image of the Celtic Cross photographed from the other side showing the harbor) Located at the end of Water Street on the harbor of Charlottetown PEI, Canada. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: St Paul Parish Interior Charlottetown PEI by Debra Martz This historical Anglican church was constructed in 1896, marking the third building in the same location. The moment you step into the entrance of the church, you notice the balanced proportions of every part of the structure, complemented by the beautiful stained glass memorial windows. The wooden ribbed ceiling, stained in a shade of mahogany, enhances the atmosphere of the interior. Although not a large church (it can accommodate around 450 people), its architecture creates a sense of openness. The chancel is designed in such a way that the sounds produced by the organ, singers, and speakers reverberate throughout the entire church. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: St Pauls Parish Charlottetown PEI by Debra Martz This historical anglican church was constructed in 1896, marking the third building on the same location. The initial structure was built in 1769, making this parish the oldest on the Island. The church has a sturdy exterior composed of large sandstone blocks. And just look at how green things are. We were here in October, a few days before Canada's Thanksgiving, to see the colorful fall foliage. But, nature has its own time schedule! Beautiful area at any time I'm sure. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-09-55-59_074
Description: Charlottetown Memorial Fountain Sacrifice by Debra Martz The Prince Edward Island Service Memorial Fountain in Charlottetown is Canada's first memorial of its kind, honoring individuals in the armed forces, law enforcement, peacekeeping organizations, or firefighting services who risked their lives in the line of duty. The centerpiece is a bronze sculpture of a hand holding the Torch of Remembrance, inscribed with the quote "To you from failing hands we throw the torch, be yours to hold it high" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae., 1872 - 1918 ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-09-54-25_509-Edit.tif
Description: Charlottetown Memorial Fountain Service Debra Martz The Prince Edward Island Service Memorial Fountain in Charlottetown is Canada's first memorial of its kind, honoring individuals in the armed forces, law enforcement, peacekeeping organizations, or firefighting services who risked their lives in the line of duty. The centerpiece is a bronze sculpture of a hand holding the Torch of Remembrance, inscribed with the quote "To you from failing hands we throw the torch, be yours to hold it high" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae., 1872 - 1918 ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-095503_286-Edit.tif
Description: Charlottetown Memorial Fountain PEACE Debra Martz I like how one lone leaf had fallen and landed just below PEACE so I kept the autumn color of it. The Prince Edward Island Service Memorial Fountain in Charlottetown is Canada's first memorial of its kind, honoring individuals in the armed forces, law enforcement, peacekeeping organizations, or firefighting services who risked their lives in the line of duty. The centerpiece is a bronze sculpture of a hand holding the Torch of Remembrance, inscribed with the quote "To you from failing hands we throw the torch, be yours to hold it high" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae., 1872 - 1918 ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-IMG_
Description: St Dunstan Basilica Pipe Organ Charlottetown PEI by Debra Martz The 89-year-old pipe organ originated from a retired church in Montreal and was relocated to St. Dunstan's Basilica in Charlottetown in 2012. With great attention to detail, it was carefully reconstructed in the choir loft, piece by piece. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-IMG_9251
Description: St Dunstans Basilica Interior Charlottetown PEI by Debra Martz The altar stands tall at 37 feet and is decorated with an altar screen that spans 44 feet and features carved statues of saints and angels. The German-crafted Rose window in the center, though seemingly small, spans 14 feet. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-IMG_9251
Description: Sunset Leaving Charlottetown Prince Edward Island by Debra Martz It looked as if we might have some stormy weather but all was well. We started our day walking in a light rain and ended it cruising out toward our next destination Sydney, Nova Scotia. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231010-DSC_9825.NEF
Description: MSC Meraviglia Docked in Portland Maine by Debra Martz Despite the frigid, gusty conditions and the ominous storm clouds overhead, no rainfall ensued. Luckily, this was beneficial as I was out and about sightseeing around Portland the entire day. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_9862.NEF
Description: Well Worn Pilings Portland Maine by Debra Martz The pilings, originating from piers of the past, remain intact in a collective heap at the cruise terminal in Portland, Maine, even after the passage of many years. I found them interesting in their weathered and worn state, and even more so when a single cormorant landed on one. Amazing to me was its "matching colors" of silver, black, and orange. A beautiful display of nature amidst the relics of the maritime past. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_9843.NEF
Description: Withering Queen Annes Lace by Debra Martz While walking around the park area by the Portland Head Light, I noticed scattered tall blooms in their final stage even though everything else was still green and not changing. The withering bloom of Queen Anne's Lace aka Wild Carrot. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_9962.NEF
Description: Portland Head Lighthouse Cape Elizabeth Maine Black and White Painterly ©Debra Martz One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country was commissioned by George Washington. Portland Head is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and is still active, guiding ships into the Portland Harbor. There is only one day each year when the Coast Guard allows a limited number of visitors inside this storied lighthouse: the annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day in September. Fortunately, there is a museum operating from Memorial Day through October 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) inside the 1891 keeper's quarters where you can view several lighthouse lenses and interpretive displays. Black & white conversion and digital brushes and textures were applied to my photo.
Description: Portland Head Lighthouse Cape Elizabeth Maine by Debra Martz One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country was commissioned by George Washington. Portland Head is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and is still active, guiding ships into the Portland Harbor. There is only one day each year when the Coast Guard allows a limited number of visitors inside this storied lighthouse: the annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day in September. Fortunately, there is a museum operating from Memorial Day through October 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) inside the 1891 keeper's quarters where you can view several lighthouse lenses and interpretive displays. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0112
Description: Portland Head Lighthouse Maine Rugged Landscape by Debra Martz One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country was commissioned by George Washington. Portland Head is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and is still active, guiding ships into the Portland Harbor. There is only one day each year when the Coast Guard allows a limited number of visitors inside this storied lighthouse: the annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day in September. Fortunately, there is a museum operating from Memorial Day through October 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) inside the 1891 keeper's quarters where you can view several lighthouse lenses and interpretive displays. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0111
Description: Portland Head Lighthouse Maine by Debra Martz One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country was commissioned by George Washington. Portland Head is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and is still active, guiding ships into the Portland Harbor. There is only one day each year when the Coast Guard allows a limited number of visitors inside this storied lighthouse: the annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day in September. Fortunately, there is a museum operating from Memorial Day through October 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) inside the 1891 keeper's quarters where you can view several lighthouse lenses and interpretive displays. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0091
Description: Portland Head Light Maine by Debra Martz One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country was commissioned by George Washington. Portland Head is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and is still active, guiding ships into the Portland Harbor. There is only one day each year when the Coast Guard allows a limited number of visitors inside this storied lighthouse: the annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day in September. Fortunately, there is a museum operating from Memorial Day through October 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) inside the 1891 keeper's quarters where you can view several lighthouse lenses and interpretive displays. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0072-Edit.tif
Description: Tribute to Annie C Maguire Shipwreck of 1886 by Debra Martz On the eve of Christmas in 1886, the ship Annie C. Maguire ran aground along the rocky, jagged edges of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, just beneath the well-known Portland Head Lighthouse. A modest yet enduring homage is found on those very boulders, which have been painted and repainted for well over a hundred years. Originally, the letters were carved into the stone by the son of the lighthouse keeper, whose family was instrumental in saving lives of the ship's passengers and crew. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0034.NEF
Description: Ram Island Ledge Light by Debra Martz Built of gray granite blocks in 1905 on a tiny rock island in Casco Bay, Ram Island Ledge Light strikes a solitary pose at the entrance to the Portland, Maine Harbor. Still a critical aid to navigation, the Ram Island Ledge Light flashes white twice every six seconds. Although this lighthouse, located about a mile offshore, is never open to the public, you can view and photograph it from Portland Head Light as I did in this image. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0031.NEF
Description: Ram Island Ledge Light Portland Maine by Debra Martz Built of gray granite blocks in 1905 on a tiny rock island in Casco Bay, Ram Island Ledge Light strikes a solitary pose at the entrance to the Portland, Maine Harbor. Still a critical aid to navigation, the Ram Island Ledge Light flashes white twice every six seconds. Although this lighthouse, located about a mile offshore, is never open to the public, you can view and photograph it from Portland Head Light like I did this image. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_0031.NEF
Description: Spring Point Ledge Light and Breakwater Portland Maine by Debra Martz Built in 1897, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse stands out at the mouth of the harbor like a giant spark plug. Of the 50 caisson-style lighthouses built in America on sturdy, metal foundations, this is the only one you can walk to: It's connected to land via a breakwater on the campus of Southern Maine Community College. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_9917-Edit.tif
Description: Casco Bay Portland Harbor Maine by Debra Martz Storm clouds were building on this October day but light was finding its way through, highlighting the historic fort and moored boats. One of Maine's most iconic coastal structures, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, Fort Gorges is a former United States military fort built on Hog Island Ledge in Casco Bay, Maine. Built from 1858 to 1864, no battles were fought there and no troops were stationed there. Advancing military technology, including ironclad ships and long-range guns, made the fort obsolete before it could be used. The fort is now a park, accessible only by boat. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: Spring Point Ledge Light Vertical by Debra Martz Built in 1897, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse stands out at the mouth of the harbor like a giant spark plug. Of the 50 caisson-style lighthouses built in America on sturdy, metal foundations, this is the only one you can walk to: It's connected to land via a breakwater on the campus of Southern Maine Community College. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20231013-DSC_9930.NEF
