Jeff Tinsley Honored at Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Richard Strauss and Bob Post sent out a quick email last night to let folks know that Smithsonian staff photographer (and long time drag racing shutterbug) Jeff Tinsley would be honored for his years of service today at the opening ceremonies for the annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the national mall in Washington, DC. My daily work takes place a few blocks away from there, so I hopped a metro rail and made my way down to the "nation's back yard."

Jeff, who has been suffering through health problems lately, looked great. I had to wait in a long line of well wishers before I could shake his hand and chat for a few minutes. I didn't want to take up too much of his time because there was quite a line behind me, as well. He looked terrific and seemed to be in great spirits. I was the only motorhead I saw there, but no doubt there were others lurking. If I was smarter, I'd have worn a drag racing ball cap or something, but I was "undercover" in my day job monkey suit, so no other drag guys would have known me (and probably vice versa). Anyway, thanks to Richard and Bob for the heads up. It was a very pleasant hour and half out of my day and it was great to see Jeff (and to see him honored).

Bill Pratt