North Tonawanda sits on the confluence of the Erie Canal and the mighty Niagara River. In it’s beginning it was a major lumber port and earned the nickname the “Lumber City.” When the city’s only high school decided to start an athletic program and add football as a sport, the name “Lumberjacks” was an obvious choice.

I recall sitting at the first contest of the 2009 football season and watch this group of talented young men easily handle their opponent and come out victorious. I recall saying, “If these boys can remain their health, keep their attitudes in check and continue to play their brand of football; there is no reason why they cannot make it through the playoffs and claim the “New York State Class AA State Championship” title. The win against the Baldwinville Bees on Saturday night finds this team poised on the doorstep of greatness with one game remaining in this championship quest.

The following photos are courtesy of Bob “Schooch” Pascucci. Thanks Schooch.

Casey Shreve, Kujo and Kyle Shreve. The Tonawanda News named these three players, among others from NTHS to the WNY All-Star first Team. Congratulations boys! You deserve the honor.

Notice the coach from Lancaster. He’s holding his heart because he can’t believe Kujo just broke that tackle and now has a clear shot at the goal line. A 41-yard TD run.

Kujo just wasn’t going to let that cast stop him. The announcer from Time-Warner kept referring to the cast as “The Club.”

What an intimidating defense. This is one awesome group of kids. I’m thinking blitz here.When Kujo plays fullback he just keeps running. It’s all that work in the weight room during the off-season. Coach Jantzi keeps telling these kids about the importance of keeping fit and staying in the weight room. The kids get it and it shows throughout the season.

Kujo met with a reporter after the game and accepted the award on behalf of the team. Go Jacks!

This contest was supposed to be a viscious contest. B’ville has an unbelieveable record and a running back to match. He has run for over 250-yards each game. This was due in part to having a line in size that rivaled the Empire State building.

Both teams were evenly matched, more on paper than in size. North Tonawanda has a multi-dimensional approach while B’ville has a bruising offense that aims to run over you at every opportunity. Keep the offense off the field, keep the defense on the field, wear them down and score points.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post. Please don’t forget to leave questions, comments and ideas for future posts by clicking on the “Leave comment” button below.

I appreciate you reading,

Chris

As I dressed for the day I glanced at the clock and knew I needed to stop by the cemetery to say a prayer for her and my grandfather. I am saddened by the fact neither one of them had an opportunity to see my children grow into adults but I know she cherished the time she had with each of them. I wish often my grandfather, a lover of football would have been able to see my son achieve the accomplishments on the field of play as well as off. He would have been proud. When I see my son have a fantastic game I often think of him and know he is watching over Stephen.

As I drove to the cemetery I saw there was a funeral in progress. As I approached the driveway my eyes focused on a flag draped coffin and I knew it was a military funeral. Something told me this was not a WW II veteran who had passed but a young man who had given his life in the fight for freedom. I entered the mausoleum and said my prayer for my grandparents but could not get my mind off the funeral I had just passed. I sat outside briefly basking in the solitude of the cemetery. like magnets my eyes were drawn toward the on-going funeral.  I witnessed two Marines enter their vehicle, a sign the service had ended.

I drove the long way through the cemetery brushing back tears as the memory of my grandmother repeatedly entered my thoughts. I was about to exit the cemetery as I glanced to my left and noticed the once flag draped coffin was now naked and sitting alone atop it’s perch waiting to be lowered into its final resting place. Mourners had left and others were still leaving. My thoughts drifted to the fallen soldier and the hopes he is not soon forgotten. My eyes focused on alone mourner who remained and stood at the side of the coffin of the fallen soldier. His hand was laid with respect on the smooth wood of the coffin now bare of the flag. I, on the other hand watched and looked at the coffin from a safe distance. I said a prayer for him and his family. He gave to this country what I am unsure I would be capable of giving. For his gift I am thankful. I did not know the fallen soldier but he has become linked in my thoughts with my grandmother and when I think of her I will think of him and all of the soldiers who have served and continue to serve.

Norm Shreve is the father of Casey and Kyle Shreve. Today he was also known as the “Grill Master.” Nice job on the hamburgers and hot dogs Norm. The food we had was tremendous. I heard something about chowder and gumbo for next week. No wonder I enjoy football games so much or maybe it’s just the tailgating part. No, the football was excellent too.

The Lumberjacks have dominated every team they faced this year. This lead the team to an 11-0 record. The depth of this team at many positions is quite remarkable. Thankfully the team has not known many injuries during their campaign for the 2009 State Championship.

The team fought a difficult battle against a very worthy foe. North Tonawanda fought through many penalties and miscues to be victorious. This victory ensured the team would move on to the next level and continue to advance toward the coveted State Championship title. Winning this contest also gave the ‘Jacks title as the “Section V/VI Regional Champions.” There has not been a  previous Lumberjacks team that has ever advanced to this level. Congratulations boys! You, your coaching staff have done a fantastic job. The unbelieveable NT fans will continue to make the trip down the I-90 to support you!

The Lumberjacks play a highly ranked team from Baldwinsville, NY on Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 6:00 PM.

It is easy for individuals to loudly praise their achievements but it is my belief it is more important to have one’s accomplishments speak for themselves. Watching Stephen reminds of the importance of humility. Watching Stephen reminds me of the importance to know what one is capable of accomplishing and to simply go out and do one’s job; to accomplish one’s goals…quietly and without fanfare.

Stephen does not gloat. He does not point out his accomplishments. He allows his actions, his behaviors to speak for him. It is this voice which speaks more loudly than any other. We found out the day after NT’s win against Lancaster he won “Player of the Game.” He never said anything and when we witnessed his on-field interview we figured it was a result of his on-field accomplishments.

Here’s to those people who go about their day quietly and without need for regard. You will be noticed as your fire will burn brightest. Congratulations ‘Jacks and Congratulations Stephen. Onward to the next goal. Go Jacks!

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.” -Mahatma Gandhi

The baby will have an extensive library from which to make his or her reading selections. I was rather disappointed as I did not see a Kindle among the books.

Here it is. The love, I mean the cake from Say Cheescake. OMG was it awesome. I actually got asked, as my eyes glazed over if I wanted to eat the fondant. I knew if I did someone would have found me huddling in a corner attempting to recover from the sugar coma.

It was an absolutely beautiful Fall day in Western New York. The venue was right on the banks of the Erie Canal in North Tonawanda, NY. I’m always thankful when I can see the sun and feel the warm weather extend into the month of October. Andrea had a wonderful day for her baby shower. I think it’s cool they didn’t want to know the sex of the baby. It’s so much more of a surprise.

This was my favorite book. I wonder if it’s available for the Kindle.

Andrea and her sister Sarah.

This was by far my favorite photo of the day. The baby shower was winding down and Andrea was discussing her long drive back to Philadelphia. She took a few minutes to herself and basked in the warmth of the sun and the beautiful scenery of the Erie Canal. She looked so content and happy. I’m sure she was thinking of her husband Brian who is a pilot and was flying a route and couldn’t be in attendance. I hope both of you enjoy the photos. I can’t wait to do the photos of the baby.

Megan told me how much she enjoys Fall and Winter. Megan came up with a wonderful idea for her ring shot. I love the brilliant colors in this shot. It’s these colors that also bring the warmth of Fall closer to my heart.

This shot was taken in the lot of one of the newer schools in Niagara Falls. I had previously driven by this schoolyard and fell in love with these sculptures. They mean many things to me but enough for now. The rest of the post will be up early next week. Check back next week and see more photos from this fun photo session.

Kujo, now also known as the “Animal”, the “Rhinoceros” and the “Locomotive” romped for over 176-yards rushing Friday night.

The football gods were being kind to photographers and fans at the game. I knew it was going to rain and hoped it wouldn’t rain too hard for too long. The rain began in the afternoon and the sky told me it was not going to cease anytime soon. I arrived at the game cloaked in wet weather gear and ready for the rain. As the first quarter came to an end the rain slowed and evolved into a fine mist. Half-time arrived and we were treated with heavier rains that retreated into a fine mist by the time the second half began. This mist continued for the rest of the game.

Kujo playing both sides of the ball very effectively.

  Kujo was thankful his “O” line did such a fantastic job blocking and opening up running lanes. Seriously, this is a good team!Kujo broke away from tacklers to secure some of his 174-rushing yards.

Charlie was a typical male in front of the camera. His mother wanted the photos; he really didn’t care if he had them done. It was a day off from school. The weather was damp and dreary and as I got into my car to head to Cardinal O’Hara High School, raindrops danced on my windshield. I became anxious the shoot would not go off. I saw Charlie and he had gotten all dressed up and I just knew we had to make sure we got the shots. Charlie’s mother also made me aware Charlie had been named the 2009 Homecoming King. Congratulations Charlie.

Charlie started off stiff and experienced some difficulty smiling. I don’t know how I did it but a couple of minutes into the shoot Charlie started to smile and he never stopped.

As a game it wasn’t much of one as North Tonawanda almost matched their score of one year ago.North Tonawanda scored on every possession through the first three quarters of the game and cruised to a 68-7 win over Tonawanda at the Lumberjacks Sports Complex in the 100th meeting of cross-canal rivals.

The Jacks now 7-0, ranked third in The Buffalo News’ large schools poll and fourth in the state by the New York State Sportswriters Association in Class AA, matched the largest margin of victory in the series, which officially began in 1904. NT won, 61-0, in 2008.

On defense, linebacker Steve (Kujo) Kijowski had 11 tackles, including three for loss.

The game through the screen of an iPhone.Kujo goes airborne after being tackled from behind as he was a standout at the fullback position.

Coach Jantzi accepting the trophy from the Marine Corp as the winner of the 100th Annual T-NT game. The game was chosen by the Marines as one of the 100 greatest rivalries in the country.The North Tonawanda Lumberjack coaching staff celebrating a perfect 7-0 season.Kujo was interviewed at the end of the game by a Time Warner cable reporter.

Additional photos can be viewed and purchased at christopherkijowski.zenfolio.com.

As Stewart changed direction Kujo found himself needing to stop and change direction mid-stride.The fourth quarter found the Wolverines QB beating the Jacks defenders to the outside which led to 22-points. Without the sideline to use as an escape route, Stewart was forced to run anywhere he saw daylight. When he did there was a slew of Jacks defenders available to plug the hole.Mike did an excellent job again of commanding the offense.Davis had a fairly easy time running against the Wolverine defenders.Montesanti was also effective as a ball carrier against a Wolverine defense who didn’t quite know how to stop the Jacks multiple weapons.Stewart was effective as a scrambler. Here’s t he one that got away.FUMBLE! North Tonawanda ran their bruising defense throughout the game. Their pressure forced their QB to struggle and scrammble and in this case to experience some difficyulty holding on to the ball.Niagara Falls recovered this fumble.Stewart being pressured again. I’m pretty sure he became sick and tired of seeing the red, white and blue of the Jacks as the North Tonawanda defense pressured him the entire afternoon.You can run but you can’t hide. Kujo hit Stewart and refused to let go. They don’t call him “Kujo” for nothing.Kujo was pretty effective as a ball carrier carrying for just shy of 60-yards. He is is the epitome of grit and determination. Go Jacks!!

A few weeks ago what was only an idea in a photographers heart quickly became a reality as Kristen Weaver created the Images for a Cure national fundraising event.

Images for a Cure is a one day event where hundreds of participating photographers will be shooting portrait sessions for a discounted session fee of $100.  All the session fees from the event will be donated directly to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®.  This day in age it seems virtually impossible to find someone who has not been touched by breast or other forms of cancer.  A few  years ago Bradford’s aunt was quickly taken by the disease in a matter of months.  We are so honored to take part in such an incredible event that allows us to use our talents and bring something beautiful to an ugly disease.  Join us on October 11, 2009 as photographers across the country will be shooting portraits to help raise funding to further breast cancer research.  Christopher Kijowski Photography is proud to be offering mini sessions on Sunday the 11th for $100 each.  Our mini sessions are perfect for family photos, holiday photos for Christmas cards, or just because.  Please contact us at christopherkijowskiphotography@gmail.com or go directly to our website at www.christopherkijowskiphotography.com if you are interested in booking your session.  Book soon as only a limited number of sessions are available.

*Session fee does not include prints or a disc of images.  All products can be purchased separately.

I think this is my favorite shot. Andrea’s sister Sarah came up with idea for a contest for door prizes. Baby diapers with a spot of melted chocolate. The guests had to smell and visualize the type of “diaper filler”. The correct answer won a door prize. I just couldn’t participate and I more than likely won’t ever look at chocolate the same way again! I can’t wait for the “real” shower in October.

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The couple called me a few weeks later and announced I had gotten the job to photograph their May 2010 wedding. I had suggested the couple complete their engagement shoot during the fall as their June 2010 wedding would not allow for the beautiful, full foliage to sprout on the trees in the area. Two weeks ago Bryan called me with some options for dates. Once the date was defined we hoped and prayed we would have nice weather. We were blessed with one of the most beautiful nights we had had in the past month. I mentioned the fantastic weather to Bryan and he explained he had “called in a favor.” Nice job Bryan. make sure you call in that same favor for June 5, 2010.

We met in Niagara Falls at the Starbucks restaurant which coincidentally was right across the street from the church in which the couple will be married and also from the couple’s reception area.

Michelle explained she had struggled through several clothing changes to decide what she was going to wear. As we began we walked for 10-15 minutes and just talking about how things had been going since we first met in May.

This was one of the first shots of the evening. I just love picnic tables. When I see one I think of some great childhood memories where the entire family would gather together outside for a meal together and celebrate the warm weather, a family member’s birthday or a holiday. Sometimes I can actually smell hotdogs, hamburgers and corn on the cob.

I just love this photo. Michelle smiled so easily and you could tell she was comfortable in front of the camera right from the start. As the sun began to descend toward the horizon signalling the end of the day, the colors became more brilliant, more golden. It’s no wonder this time of day is referred to as the “golden hour.”I love sunsets. As I have said in many earlier posts this has to be one of my favorite times of day. I absolutely love the way the sun was framed between the couple as they kissed. By the way, getting the couple to kiss was not a difficult task at all. Long after I stopped shooting, the couple continued to kiss. Of course there are worse things…I just love black and white. I think this is the best photo of Bryan an his smile. This smile looked so easy and natural.Again, black and white. Need I say more?This was an interesting shot. Both Bryan and I thought he was more flexible than he really was. I can totally relate to that so we allowed Bryan to “cheat” just a little bit by bending his knees.I just love ring shots and I love them even more when they show the hands they will soon be adorning.Bryan had to quickly replace the ring because Michelle was afraid he might drop it.This was one of my favorite shots of the night, I have a tendency to be a pretty emotional person and a true romantic at heart. When Bryan decided to kiss Michelle’s hand with no direction from me it gave me some additional insight into his warm heart and love for Michelle.

I love you guys and had a great deal of fun with you for your engagement shoot. I can’t wait for the wedding. P.S. Michelle, I don’t think you’ll have any difficulty knowing what to wear for your next photo shoot.

Kristin and Jake were so easy to photograph. Their love for each other was clear as their interactions with each other were never teased out but natural. The only direction I really gave the couple during the beach shoot was to “act natural.”

This photo was inspired by Chris Becker. So many people have told me this was one of their favorites. You have to do a double take to, well, you know…
I love this photo a lot. I used a preset for Lightroom called “Aged.” I love the washed out look that really emphasizes the couple.

Before I jump into Kristin and Jake’s rehearsal dinner photos I wanted to share how much I enjoy my job and how lucky I feel I am to be able to take photographs for a living. I came across this passage which I believe truly encapsulates my thoughts and views. “A major goal of spiritual practice is to clear our mental space of the intellectual and emotional garbage we have been collecting…and to provide space for the experience of true relaxation and enjoyment.” That space for me is whenever I have a camera in my hands.

Kristin and Jake will be married on July 19th and I have the privilege of witnessing their vows and documenting their love for each other.

The rehearsal dinner was at Tommy Bahama’s in Destin, Florida. What a cool restaurant and kudos to the manager for the wonderful job he did. So we’re in SouthFlorida and what’s on the menu? If you guessed some pretty awesome seafood you were correct. Snapper encrusted with macadamia nuts and served with wasabi soy butter sauce and grilled broccolini seasoned with lemon garlic oil. Man my mouth is watering just recalling this most excellent meal. After the rehearsal dinner the wedding party gathered with family and close friends back at the hotel for a meet and greet. Jake’s mom put together a beautiful video for the bride and groom. Photos of both from birth through present was set to music. I’m not sure there was a dry eye in the house. here’s just a few photos from the rehearsal dinner.

The table settings at the restaurant all kept with  a nautical theme.

Here’s the girls. Not their wedding but by the end of the night you knew they rivaled Kristin for the title of “Most Important Person.” Here’s some photos from a night that was quite a bit of fun.

Here’s the Boys. Well behaved during dinner and rambunctious the rest of the night. Great fun.

Kristin, Jake and their family and friends at the rehearsal dinner at Tommy Bahamas.

I love this shot of Kristin. She will be an absolutely beautiful bride. Her smile and laugh are infectious.

The kiss. I had asked one of the little boys to go up to Kristin and Jake and tell them to kiss so I could take this photo. He told them then ran and watched to see if they would as he peered from around the corner.

Kristin and Jake watched the video Jake’s mom put together. The video commanded everyone’s attention for almost 20-minutes. What a great video and a fantastic way to celebrate the lives of Kristin and Jake.

This young lady had a kind of her own. When she saw the camera any trace of a smile immediately left her face. It was as if she was saying, “No way are you taking my picture!”

Jake was watching Kristin open some of the gifts received by the couple tonight. I asked Jake if he received any “man” gifts and he held up a pizza cutter. Go Jake!

Kristin was of course very happy with the pizza cutter and said she “might actually let Jake use it.”

Jake, Kristin and the gang.

A view from my 6th floor balcony.