This fountain was featured in the film "Logan's Run ©" and exists today in downtown Ft. Worth, Texas. It is very large [look at the people for scale] and seems sort of dangerous for any small children. There were families around though, but seemed to be watching the children carefully.

Recently a child did fall in and drown along with 3 other people who tried to help. http://cbs11tv.com/topstories/local_story_061192827.html

As you can see from the article, many modifications have been made to make it safer. I took this photo in July of 2001 with a Sony Cybershot 717© and as I was climbing around, realized that it was possible to fall from the top [where I was shooting] and roll all the way to the bottom. Believe me, I was being very careful [had camera on tripod yet!].

They say 1 out of 3 people over the age of 65 will fall this year. I guess I have had mine. I was along the river in downtown Dayton, walking along a brick sidewalk while looking at building architecture.

I missed seeing the part of the brick sidewalk [it shows in the photo in lower left] that was frost heaved and tripped. I fell forward, saved the 40D, scraped both knees, both hands, and my watch crystal [how that happened I don't understand] and it is a good lesson. Watch where you are walking!! Sigh.

Mel

With all the discounts and rebates reported on Bob Atkins site Link and his 'right up-to-date info,' I am not about to start another 5D rumor site; however, I am looking forward for the 5D upgrade and hope it is announced at the 2008 PMA.

Realistically though Sept. may be the date. It all depends on the competition. If the Nikon D3 gains traction then Canon may shoot for the PMA. The rebates and discounts all point to earlier announcement.

If it is announced then and the performance is good [how could it not be] and has dust control like the 40D along with 3" LCD and 16MP [now that the 1Ds Mk III is at the 22MP region], I may have to spring for one in the Spring. :-) I couldn't resist. LOL

Mel

Scott Kelby posted a Scott Thinks It's Hot Award for this bag, so I got one. It just arrived yesterday. Link
It seems pretty good and compact. When full of my 40D, and 5 lenses [10-22, 17-55, 24-105, 100 mm Macro, and 70-300] it isn't light though. Of course no bag would be. It all fits nicely and there is room in the front no-drop compartment for the 50mm f/1.8 and extra batteries, CF cards and other stuff. Remove one lens and the 580EX fits along with its battery pack. There is nowhere for the Gary Fong Lightsphere II though. That sucker is so big that it about needs a separate bag. Maybe I should rig a small bag on the shoulder strap for the complete package.

Overall, I really like it since I can easily take a full "kit" along for a remote shoot. It even has tripod straps [light tripod though, not my Manfretto 3021 with ball head. Just my cheapie Kodak from long ago [$14 model]. Good for emergencies though.

Usually if I am going on a short shoot, I pick one lens, mount on camera and use the tapered 'one camera & lens' shoulder bag. Works well to protect camera and lens and not terribly noticeable compared to the big bag. If I want to go all out, my Lowe Pro Road Runner Mini Tracker is the one. It holds everything. Depending on packing, even the 20D body for a spare. Happy bagging.

Mel

This neat GPS map driving tool arrived yesterday. It works great. Located my house, my daughter's house, local shopping malls, museums, and other things we go to. Some of them we have to look at maps to get there so I am hoping this simplifies the process. I will let you know tonight or tomorrow. Garmin

Mel