Chicago Still & Box Alarm fire, 10-26-14

This message is from Steve Redick:

On Sunday, at Jackson and Cicero, there was a fire involving two buildings. From what I could see, both appeared to be vacant. There was a lot of truck activity, with fire showing in the knee walls. Some good shots of K12 saw work during forcible entry. The rear photo shows what might be near the point of origin, and you can see how the fire spread into both structures.

 

Chicago fire truck at fire scene

Steve Redick photo

back of building after fire

Steve Redick photo

Chicago fire truck at fire scene

Steve Redick photo

Chicago fire truck at fire scene

Steve Redick photo

Chicago fire trucks at fire scene

Steve Redick photo

firemen force entry into storefront

Steve Redick photo

firemen force entry into storefront

Steve Redick photo

black smoke pours from the roof of a commercial building

Steve Redick photo

black smoke pours from the roof of a commercial building

Steve Redick photo

All the images can be seen on my site: www.ksc711.smugmug.com

This message is from Josh Boyajian:

Here are some quick shots from Still and Box today at 312 S Cicero Ave. I arrived about 15 minutes into the fire. Not many good fire shots due to the sun, but I got some nice action shots of the firefighters.
-Josh
black smoke pours from the roof of a commercial building

Josh Boyajian photo

Chicago fire truck at fire scene

Josh Boyajian photo

Chicago firefighter after battling a fire

Josh Boyajian photo

Chicago firefighter after battling a fire

Josh Boyajian photo

fireman with saw cutting into door

Josh Boyajian photo

Chicago firefighter after battling a fire

Josh Boyajian photo

Taichi Sword

The Taichi sword is typically a straight, single-edged blade with a slightly curved handle. It is often made of stainless steel or high-quality carbon steel. The length of the sword varies depending on the practitioner's height but is generally around 36 to 40 inches.

The Taichi sword is not primarily used as a weapon for combat but rather as a tool for refining one's Tai Chi skills. It is an extension of the practitioner's body and is used to enhance balance, coordination, and strength. The slow, precise movements with the sword help develop a deep understanding of Tai Chi principles such as relaxation, proper body alignment, and energy flow.

When practicing Tai Chi with the sword, practitioners engage in a series of choreographed forms or routines called "jian" or "jianfa." These forms combine graceful, flowing movements with precise sword techniques, including thrusts, cuts, and spins. The focus is on maintaining a relaxed and centered state while moving in harmony with the sword.

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