He stands vigilantly at the park’s westernmost limits looking towards the hydroelectric dam and the bridge that leads to New Albany, Indiana. The tailwaters below the dam are a favorite spot for fisherman who have boats. This is a good spot if one is hoping to hook into a big catfish. Under the spillway, however, can be rough. If due precautions aren’t taken, it can be a dangerous place for boaters. That’s why the lifeguard remains on duty.
The lifeguard is a unique individual and his commitment is total. His very body can be used as a flotation device! In a more conventional emergency, he is expert at throwing his buoy near the distressed person in the water and pulling them to safety. On this stretch of the Ohio River, the currents can be especially unpredictable. There are many warning signs around the park and Interpretive Center to call attention to this danger. Heed them.
His weather-beaten visage is in contrast to his heart of gold. Over the years his walnut-colored eyes have seen much. Despite the sometimes foolhardy antics of his fellow creatures, he still believes everyone is worth saving. That’s the broad brush he paints with. It’s nice knowing that if you needed to…you could put your life into his hands.
Artist at Exit 0 Riverblog 
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