Florida Based Documentary, Travel, Sports and Portrait Photographer

Miguel Cotto Workout in Orlando

Octavian — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 06:07:42 +0000

WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Miguel Cotto works out at the Don Miguel Boxing Gym in Orlando, Florida on April 17, 2012. Cotto is preparing for his title defense against Floyd Mayweather, which takes place on May 5th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. My access was as good as possible. Thank you Monica, Bryan and Lisa. Usage rights to these images can be purchased from Hoganphotos.com.

Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford, April 13, 2012

Octavian — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 21:51:13 +0000

More images from these Friday night fights can be purchased from my archive. Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford
“A boy from Jorge Melendez ‘s camp hold up the WBO Latino light middleweight title belt during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Sheldon Moore, in the white trunks, fights Frank Gedon, in the gold trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Sheldon Moore, in the white trunks, fights Frank Gedon, in the gold trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Jorge Melendez exits the locker room before his fight with Marcus Willis during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Jorge Melendez, in the blue trunks, fights Marcus Willis, in the white trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Jorge Melendez knocks out Marcus Willis in the final minute of the fourth round during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Luis Torres, in the silver trunks, fights Juan Luis Aguirre, in the red trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Luis Torres, in the silver trunks, fights Juan Luis Aguirre, in the red trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Robert Burwell, in the black trunks, fights Tim Parker, in the black and white trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Robert Burwell, in the black trunks, fights Tim Parker, in the black and white trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Daniel Rodriguez, in the red trunks, fights Phillip Penson, in the dark trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Daniel Rodriguez, in the red trunks, fights Phillip Penson, in the dark trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Jose Miau Nieves, in the white trunks, fights Alejandro Jose Delgado, in the blue trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”
“Jose Miau Nieves, in the white trunks, fights Alejandro Jose Delgado, in the blue trunks, during the “Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford” series held at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida on Friday, April 13, 2012.”

American Association for Cancer Research: 619 Portraits

Octavian — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 22:01:51 +0000

Over the course of the American Association of Cancer Research’s six day annual convention, I made portraits of 619 international doctors, including two Nobel Prize winners. These are most of the people directly responsible for every major advancement of cancer treatment from the past decade! More than 1000 presentations, group discusions and study groups were held. Everything is filmed, and in one month everything will be avaliable for membors to view. I must admit, these portraits are simple 3 light glorified headshots, but that’s all they wanted. This was my second year doing this, and if I get to do it again next year, I’ll have two setups. One for them, and one for me. I’m thinking either a 85mm at f/1.4 or an 85mm tilt shift. The main purpose of the portraits is to put a face next to the presentations posted online. Maybe next year, we can work it out both logistically and financially, so that these doctors can have access to my portraits for their own use. Most of them are too busy otherwise to have a professional portrait made. It didn’t feel good having to turn down doctors, who asked for my images.

All work and no play makes for a cranky Octavian, so to balance things out, I stayed with a friend, which has an incredible apartment in downtown Chicago. Another treat was having two other friends in town, who are chiefs, cook for a small group of us on two occasions. All they wanted in return was a paella pan, which turned out to be not that easy to find. Thanks again Dan Renner, Jorge Calero and Juan Abraham Obando. You guys are the best!

Trayvon Martin Coverage in Sanford: 3/21-3/26

Octavian — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 03:11:16 +0000

“A teenager, who didn’t want to release his name, mourns the death of Trayvon Martin in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“Marry Golding, 58, of Orlando, shows her support during a protest organized by the Florida Civil Rights Association in front of the Florida Division of Licensing in Orlando, Florida March 21, 2012. The group are demanding the state to revoke George Zimmerman’s concealed weapons permit, the neighborhood watch captain who shot and killed an unarmed black teenager in Sanford late last month.”
“Central Florida residents brought a variety of signs during a protest organized by the Florida Civil Rights Association in front of the Florida Division of Licensing in Orlando, Florida March 21, 2012. The group are demanding the state to revoke George Zimmerman’s concealed weapons permit, the neighborhood watch captain who shot and killed an unarmed black teenager in Sanford late last month.”
“The memorial close to where Trayvon Martin was killed in front of The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida is overflowing with love on March 22, 2012.”
“James E. Muhammad, 49, from the Jacksonville branch of the New Black Panthers, leaves a flyer at the memorial close to where Trayvon Martin was killed in front of The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Muhammad said his goal today is to make his public school students back home more aware of the dangers in the world, and that it has not changed as much as we might think it has.”
“Trent Spears, who initially gave his name as Trayvon Martin, leads a crowd with his music before the start of a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Frank Gartmond, 50, from Sanford, brought his dog Boon to a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Reginald Muhammad, from Atlanta, sells copes of what he calls the largest black issues newspaper in the world, The Final Call, before the start of a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Alexcee Reddicks, 34, from Sanford, sells shirts promoting exactly what he says he believes in before the start of a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. “Spreading awareness for what we [minorities] have to go through as a society,” is what Reddicks said he was up to.”
“An estimated eight-thousand people showed up for a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Sharpton and other speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Hattie Jacobs, 60, from Deltona, reaches for a flyer that was widely dispered during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Florida congresswoman Corrine Brown speaks during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Brown and other speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Sanford Major Jeff Triplett approached the mic during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter.”
“An unidentified man stops to pray during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012.”
“Reverend Al Sharpton speaks during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Sharpton and other speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“From center left, Marion Evans, the grandmother of Trayvon Martin, and Leona D. Johnson watch Reverend Al Sharpton speak during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Sharpton and other speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Marion Evans, the grandmother of Trayvon Martin, watches Reverend Al Sharpton speaks during a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where Martin, an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Sharpton and other speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Reverend Gary Johnson, form Miami, urges the crowd to leave safely and keep the peace at the end of a public rally to honor the memory of Trayvon Martin, at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida March 22, 2012. Police Chief Bill Lee of Sanford, a Florida town where an unarmed black teenager was shot dead by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman stepped aside on Thursday following withering criticism and national outrage that police have declined to arrest the shooter. Speakers are demanding the arrest of Zimmerman.”
“Na’ Jee Shaka Muhammad, from the New Black Liberation Militia, speaks to a group about the Trayvon Martin story before the start of a candle light vigil in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“A group mourns the death of Trayvon Martin in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“A group mourns the death of Trayvon Martin in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“A group mourns the death of Trayvon Martin in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“A group mourns the death of Trayvon Martin in front of the The Retreat at Twin Lakes community in Sanford, Florida on March 25, 2012.”
“From left: Rev Al Sharpton, Sybrina Fulton, Tracy Martin and Jesse Jackson are greeted by the crowd during a community forum about the late Trayvon Martin at the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Eatonville, Florida March 26, 2012. Martin, a 17-year-old African American, was killed on February 26 while walking through a gated community in an Orlando suburb. George Zimmerman, a white Hispanic neighborhood watch volunteer, believed the young man in a “hoodie” hooded sweatshirt looked suspicious, followed him and an altercation ensued. Zimmerman’s attorney has said Zimmerman acted in self-defense. He has not been arrested.”
“Jesse Jackson (R) leads prayers with Al Sharpton during a community forum about the late Trayvon Martin at the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Eatonville, Florida March 26, 2012. Martin, a 17-year-old African American, was killed on February 26 while walking through a gated community in an Orlando suburb. George Zimmerman, a white Hispanic neighborhood watch volunteer, believed the young man in a “hoodie” hooded sweatshirt looked suspicious, followed him and an altercation ensued. Zimmerman’s attorney has said Zimmerman acted in self-defense. He has not been arrested.”
“From left: Rev Al Sharpton, Sybrina Fulton, Tracy Martin and Jesse Jackson listen to their lawyers speak about the details of the Trayvon Martin case during a community forum at the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Eatonville, Florida March 26, 2012. Martin, a 17-year-old African American, was killed on February 26 while walking through a gated community in an Orlando suburb. George Zimmerman, a white Hispanic neighborhood watch volunteer, believed the young man in a “hoodie” hooded sweatshirt looked suspicious, followed him and an altercation ensued. Zimmerman’s attorney has said Zimmerman acted in self-defense. He has not been arrested.”
“Vince Taylor, 32, of Winter Springs, chants “no justice no peace” before the start of a march down Park Avenue in downtown Sanford, Florida on March 26, 2012.”
“People march down Park Avenue in downtown Sanford, Florida in support of Trayvon Martin on March 26, 2012.”
“Thousands of people march down Park Avenue in support of Trayvon Martin at downtown Sanford, Florida March 26, 2012. Martin, a 17-year-old African American, was killed on February 26 while walking through a gated community in an Orlando suburb. George Zimmerman, a white Hispanic neighborhood watch volunteer, believed the young man in a “hoodie” hooded sweatshirt looked suspicious, followed him and an altercation ensued. Zimmerman’s attorney has said Zimmerman acted in self-defense. He has not been arrested.”
“Rev. Jesse Jackson (C) reaches for a sign with the picture of Trayvon Martin during a march down Park Avenue in downtown Sanford, Florida March 26, 2012. George Zimmerman who shot and killed an unarmed Florida teenager in a case that has sparked widespread public outrage told police the victim had punched him, knocked him down and slammed his head into the pavement repeatedly before he fired the fatal gunshot. Zimmerman’s account, was published for the first time on Monday in the online edition of the Orlando Sentinel. Police in Sanford, Florida, confirmed that the newspaper report appeared to be based on leaked information from someone inside the police department.”
“Jesse Jackson, on the right, marches down Seminole Boulevard arms locked with community leaders in memory of Trayvon Martin in downtown Sanford, Florida on March 26, 2012.”
“The father of the late Trayvon Martin, Tracy Martin, thanks the crowd for their support after a protest march at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida, March 26, 2012. George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch captain, told police he fatally shot Martin after the teenager punched him, knocked him down and slammed his head into the ground, the Orlando Sentinel reported on Monday. The February 26 killing of the black teenager as he walked through a gated community by Zimmerman, a white Hispanic, has triggered protests around the country and calls for Zimmerman’s arrest.”
“The father of the late Trayvon Martin, Tracy Martin, wipes away tears after speaking to the crowd after a protest march at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida, March 26, 2012.”
“From left, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton leave a protest at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida, March 26, 2012.”
“The mother of the late Trayvon Martin, Sybrina Fulton, and her lawyer, Benjamin Crump, try to dodge any more questions from the media while leaving a protest held at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford, Florida, March 26, 2012.”

Amway Center Implosion

Octavian — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 22:27:32 +0000

I felt it, but it wasn’t as loud as I thought it would be. The bad part was the dust storm that came afterwards. The concrete dust got in my eyes and all over my cameras.
“The Amway Arena implodes inwards using a series of controlled explosions over 10 to 15 seconds starting at 7:30 a.m. in Orlando, Florida March 25, 2012. The building has been vacant since the new Amway Center opened in 2010.”

Tavistock: Day 2

Octavian — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 21:41:54 +0000

“From left, Graeme McDowell of Lake Nona celebrates with teammates, Ross Fisher and Gary Woodland after their team won the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Two helicopters carrying team Islesworth and team Queenwood approach the 18th green before the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Team Queenwood approach the country club after arriving by helicopter before the start of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany practices on the driving range before the start of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany looks on as his teammate Justin Rose practices on the driving range before the start of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“From left, Sean O’Hair of Isleworth, Tiger Woods of Albany and Thomas Bjorn of Queenwood head down the fairway after teeing off from the first hole during the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany drops his club in disgust after his second shot on the first hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the 10th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the 10th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany hits his second shot on the 10th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the 14th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany hits out of a bunker on the 14th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany lines up his putt on the 15th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the 16th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the 18th hole of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany sinks his final putt of the second round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”
“From left, Graeme McDowell of Lake Nona celebrates with teammates, Ross Fisher and Gary Woodland after their team won the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida March 20, 2012.”

Tavistock: Day 1

Octavian — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 21:08:08 +0000

The Tavistock Cup is a team golf event played in Florida that features the top-ranked golf professional members of four international golf clubs; Albany, Isleworth Golf & Country Club, Lake Nona Golf & Country Club and Queenwood Golf Club. The two-day tournament is an officially sanctioned PGA Tour event. The inaugural Tavistock Cup in 2004 matched Lake Nona Golf & Country Club verses Isleworth Golf & Country Club. In 2011, the Tavistock Cup was expanded to include Albany, a resort and golf community in the Bahamas, and Queenwood, a private golf club outside of London. Tickets are not sold to the public; only club members, residents, sponsors, designated charities and invited guests are able to attend the event. Spectators wear the official team colors of Albany Pink, Isleworth Red, Lake Nona Blue or Queenwood Green to show their support for their team.
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off on the first hole of the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off at the second hole of the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany hits his second shot of the second hole during the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Justin Rose and Tiger Woods of Team Albany choose their clubs before the fourth hole of the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Bubba Watson of Islesworth and Tiger Woods of Team Albany wait for their partners during the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Justin Rose was matched up with Tiger Woods for the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany hits his second shot of the eighth hole during the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany walks off the green on the 12th hole during the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Tiger Woods of Team Albany tees off from the 15th hole during the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”
“Team Albany and Team Islesworth shake hands after completing the first round of the 2012 Tavistock Cup at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando March 19, 2012.”

Gwen Jorgensen in the Draft Legal Challenge

Octavian — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 17:51:50 +0000

“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen competes during the swim portion of the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen exits the water during the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen lines up at the start of the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen comes in from the cycling portion of the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen slips on her shoes for the last leg of the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen competes during the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen competes during the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen competes during the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”“U.S. triathlete Gwen Jorgensen autographs a young fan’s shirt after finishing the second annual Draft Legal Challenge in Clermont, Florida March 3, 2012. Jorgensen, who completed her first competitive triathlon in Clermont just two years ago, qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games with a runner-up finish at the 2011 London ITU World Championship Series triathlon. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”

128th Silver Spurs Rodeo

Octavian — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 19:24:41 +0000

Reuter let me cover this for them. So far, MSNBC has picked it up. The rodeo continues through the weekend, but I can’t cover it anymore. I already have plans to assist my friend Donald Miralli with his Washington Nationals shoot for a week. ON LEFT: “Seth Glause of Cheyenne, Wyoming rides Will the Pill during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
ON RIGHT: “Jeremy R. Melancon of Huntsville, Texas exits the rider’s area after participating in the saddle bronc event of the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“A cowboy wrangles a bull through a series of mazes after a run in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“From left, Jaggar White, 6, and his brother Kolton, 8 of Kenansville, Florida and Wes Kempfer, 8, of Melbourne, Florida watch the ground crew set up the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Kevin Heard, 51, prepares the flanking ropes that are used to make the bulls and broncs buck during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Kevin Heard, 51, prepares the flanking ropes that are used to make the bulls and broncs buck during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Taylor Braussard of Estherwood, Louisiana rides Poison Ivy during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Lyle Welling of Crawford, Nebraska rides during the saddle bronc event of the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES) “
“Josh Reynolds rides Solid during the saddle bronc event of the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Jacobs Crawley of College Station, Texas rides Best Hope during the saddle bronc event of the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Adam Wallace of Greenbrier, Arkansas participates in the team roping event during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Children race to grab a flag off a calf during the calf scramble event of the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”

“Kaylon Rodriguez of Polk City, Florida participates in the barrel racing event during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Taylor Willis of Wheatland, Wyoming rides Tap Out during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Jay Garza of Carson City, Nevada gets tossed off of Red Fox during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Clay Taylor of Beaufort, South Carolina gets tossed off his bull during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Trent Cormie of Houma, Louisiana watches a fellow bull rider’s run during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“The bull Josh Barentine of Dequincy, Louisiana was riding hurt his legs during the run and had to be put down during the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida February 17, 2012. This is the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River, and is so important to the community that all public schools in the county close for the day. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”

2012 Little Miss Silver Spurs

Octavian — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:55:12 +0000

This story was a true pleasure to tell. It was refreshing to see a family with a long tradition in beauty contests, that didn’t let it run their lives. Sure a lot of time is spent preparing, planning and primping for the pageant, but the whole thing felt more like a life experience that teaches these girls responsibility, community service and what I call lady-like manerisims. The Shirah family welcomed me, a stranger with a big camera, into their home and lives, with no prejudices. The least I could have done was check any preconcieved stereotypes I may have had at the door. I hope these images shake up any stereotypes that you may have about this culture, and show how beautiful and wholesome beauty pageants can be if not taken to the extreme. I was able to tell this story because Wendy Jeannin, of the Silver Spurs Arena, put me in contact with the Shirah family, and Joe Skipper and Bob Strong, from Reuters, took a chance on my ability to tell this story. Some of the media sources that picked up this story include The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The Christian Science Monitor, Good Morning America, Yahoo OMG, mailonline.com, and the local Orlando Sentinel.
“Rachel Shirah, 11, has her lips painted by her mother Beth on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, tries to catch her steer named Mo on the morning of the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. One of Rachel’s choirs is to take care of this animal, which she plans on showing at the Osceola County Fair later this week. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, cares for her steer named Mo on the morning of the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. One of Rachel’s choirs is to take care of this animal, which she plans to show at the Osceola County Fair later this week. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, leads her steer named Mo to his feeding area on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. One of Rachel’s choirs is to take care of this animal, which she plans to show at the Osceola County Fair later this week. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, runs her steer named Mo on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. One of Rachel’s choirs is to take care of this animal, which she plans to show at the Osceola County Fair later this week. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, fools around with the crystals that her mother Beth is using to add sparkle to her queen shirt on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, tries on different colored boots in front of all the show clothes her mother made throughout the years for her and her two sisters on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, has mascara put on by her mother Beth on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, has her hair curled by her mother Beth on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, picks out the color combination for her makeup on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Sheila Shirah, 17, the current Miss Silver Spurs, helps her little sister Rachel, 11, get her hair right for the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at the family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida on February 14, 2012. Beauty pageants has a long history in the Shirah family. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Beth Shirah watches on as her oldest daughter Sheila, 17, helps her youngest daughter Rachel, 11, get ready for the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida on February 14, 2012. Sheila is the current Miss Silver Spurs, and Rachel will be in this year’s Little Miss Silver Spurs pageant. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, practices her speech on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant in her family’s living room in St. Cloud, Florida February 14, 2012. Rachel said she shot the buck on the far right. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, is ready to compete in the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, plays outside at her family’s ranch in St. Cloud, Florida, while waiting for the rest of her family to get ready to attend the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, helps her big sister Sheila, 17, with her sash. Sheila is the current Miss Silver Spurs, and Rachel is participating in the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The Shirah family have a long history of participating in beauty pageants. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Caitlin Harris, the 2011 Little Miss Silver Spurs, leads the current contestants during a dance to kick off the 2012 pageant in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Many of the outfits contestants of the 2012 Little Miss Silver Spurs pageant held in Kissimmee, Florida are hand made. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, takes the mic to deliver her speech during the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Haley Porter walks off the stage after delivering her speech during the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“The 12 contestants of this year’s 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida wait for the winner to be announced on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Courtney Clair walks the stage after being announced the winner of the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. The winners will hold a prominent spot in the 128th Silver Spurs Rodeo, which takes place this weekend in Kissimmee, Florida. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, walks off the stage followed by her father Tim after not placing in the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. “You never know how the judges will call it,” Tim Shirah said. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Sheila Shirah, 17, the 2011 Miss Silver Spurs, consults her little sister Rachel, 11, after Rachel didn’t win the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”
“Rachel Shirah, 11, watches as the crowd greets the winners of the 52nd Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on February 14, 2012. “Oh well,” she said. REUTERS/Octavian Cantilli (UNITED STATES)”