Rob Hornaman

09/02/2025

As I wandered the sandy stretches of Beach 11 and the winding path of the North Pier Trail at Presque Isle, the morning unfolded like a treasure hunt for new perspectives. My camera clicked with each step, capturing the quiet beauty of a place poised in anticipation. A weathered picnic table stood alone, its worn planks ready to host the next lively barbecue filled with laughter and sizzling grills. Nearby, the lifeguard tower loomed silently, patiently awaiting the return of summer’s swimmers, their joyful splashes and dives yet to echo across Lake Erie’s waters. The trail itself seemed to hum with promise, its curves and vistas calling to adventurers eager for their next journey through nature’s embrace. Each scene offered a fresh angle, a moment frozen in time, whispering of the stories yet to unfold on this timeless shore.

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Presque Isle State Park, PA

09/02/2025

This morning, I found myself sprawled out on the soft sands of Beach 11 at Presque Isle, camera in hand, chasing yet another breathtaking sunrise. The air was cool, the waves lapped gently, and the sky was a canvas of wonder. Scattered across it were clouds, fluffy and delicate, like cotton balls drifting lazily in the early light. As the first rays of the sun peeked above the horizon, the scene transformed into something straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster. Golden hues danced across Lake Erie, painting the water in shimmering pinks and oranges, while the clouds glowed as if lit from within. Each moment felt like a gift, a fleeting masterpiece crafted by nature. Mornings like this at Beach 11 remind you why some moments are worth waking up early for pure magic, etched in light and serenity.

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Presque Isle State Park, PA

09/02/2025

Early morning start to the day. The Perry Monument stood tall, reflecting perfectly onto the calm waters. I loved how the reflection gave off that old-school, early-day 8-bit graphics vibe—it was like stepping into a pixelated scene from the past. A great way to kick off the morning!

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Presque Isle State Park, PA

08/17/2025

I don’t usually make recommendations like this, but I felt like I had to share.

If you’re a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, do yourself a favor and check out the podcast Steelers By The Lake. The hosts do a fantastic job breaking down everything about the team, from game recaps and player performances to draft coverage, roster moves, and even the behind-the-scenes storylines that shape the season.

What I really enjoy is the way they combine deep football knowledge with the perspective of true fans, so you get both the technical insight and the passion that makes following the Steelers so exciting. Whether it’s the middle of the season or the quiet part of the offseason, these guys always bring fresh, thoughtful content that keeps you connected to the Black & Gold all year long.

https://www.facebook.com/share/16hV6Ffwx5/?mibextid=wwXIfr

The official page for the Steelers by the Lake podcast!

08/14/2025

Happy 814 Day!

Today we celebrate everything that makes our region, proudly marked by the 814 area code so unique and special. In honor of the day, I’m sharing some of the remarkable places I’ve been fortunate to explore during my adventures across the 814.

From breathtaking views at Presque Isle State Park to the charm of small-town streets and the joy of discovering hidden gems, every stop has added its own story to the rich tapestry of our home.

Reflecting on these journeys reminds me of the diversity, warmth, and spirit that define our communities—welcoming people, vibrant cultures, thriving local businesses, and landscapes that never fail to inspire.

So today, let’s raise a toast to the 814 and all the memories, beauty, and pride it gives us. Whether revisiting a favorite spot or uncovering something new, let’s celebrate the heritage, character, and charm that make our region one-of-a-kind.

Happy 814 Day to everyone who calls this incredible place home!

08/12/2025

Early wake-up call this morning and I honestly can’t remember the last time I set foot on the Sassafras Street Pier. It’s been months. The moment I arrived, I knew it was worth the wait. A slight breeze drifted in from the south, carrying that familiar lake air, and the temperatures were perfectly comfortable. The ripples of the water and the soft pre dawn light set the stage for the real star, the Bicentennial Tower, standing tall and waiting for the sun’s first light. A perfect morning to be there, camera in hand.

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Bicentennial Tower at Dobbins Landing - Erie
Bayfront Landing

08/12/2025

Several days ago, I visited the sunflower fields out in Girard, and the photos I shared brought so much love and joy. That warm response inspired me to return this evening, this time with the goal of incorporating the sun into my shots. After a bit of trial and error (and plenty of patience), I managed to capture some truly incredible photos. The fields were alive with visitors, laughter, and the golden glow of sunset. It was definitely a popular spot tonight!

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Hagen History Center

08/08/2025

A big heartfelt thank you to everyone for all the kind comments, likes, and shares on my sunflower field photos from last week!

It’s so wonderful to see how much joy these fields bring to all of us. I think we all hope they return year after year and imagine how amazing it would be to have an observation deck overlooking the whole golden view!

If these sunflowers bloom again next year, I’ll be there in a heartbeat, and I hope to see you there too!

08/01/2025

Spent the day out in Girard photographing the sunflower fields!!! What a sight!! Sunflowers to the left, to the right, and stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like standing in the middle of a golden sea. Bright yellow petals swaying gently in the breeze, all reaching toward the sun. What an absolutely amazing scene to capture through the lens!!

Hagen History Center
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07/28/2025

Back down along the Bayfront this evening, this time at Dobbins Landing. Families were out for a stroll, some folks had their lines cast and were fishing, while others simply soaked in the evening air. Definitely one of those nights that reminds you how nice it is to just be out and enjoy the waterfront!

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Bicentennial Tower at Dobbins Landing - Erie

07/27/2025

While at the Holland Street Pier last night, I captured the Perry Monument glowing brilliantly, standing tall and proud against the darkened sky. Its soft light created a calm, almost surreal scene. It felt like the monument was keeping silent watch over the shoreline.

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Presque Isle State Park, PA