the FRANKLIN MINT

JETS LOSE TO STEELERS

2011-01-25T18:03:00.000-08:00

Went out to frigid Pittsburgh for AFC Championship game between the Jets and Steelers. Roethlisberger and Pittsburgh's offense dominated the first half, while the Jets rallied in the second but fell short, 24-19.

Here's post-game video with Record reporters Tara Sullivan and Art Stapleton at Heinz Field.

JETS BEAT PATRIOTS

2011-01-18T18:13:00.000-08:00

Rex Ryan's Same old Jets advance to AFC Championship game vs. the Steelers next week, after stunning win over Tom Brady and the Patriots up in New England. The Jets defense was the difference, in a stirring 28-21 upset victory over the Patriots in the AFC divisional playoff round Sunday at Gillette Stadium.

Here's post-game video with Record reporters Tara Sullivan and Art Stapleton, from Foxboro.

Touring the WTC site

2010-12-21T18:25:00.000-08:00

Went on a guided tour of the World Trade Center construction site which included the 9/11 Memorial. Work is now being completed at a seemingly breakneck pace, and the site is taking shape. Port Authority big-wig Bill Baroni narrated the tour, and vows to have the 9/11 Memorial opened for the 10th anniversary. Video includes a breathtaking view of NY Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, viewed from the 39th floor of the WTC tower, take a look.

TOXIC LEGACY DOCUMENTARY

2010-12-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Years after Ford Motor Co. was forced to return to Ringwood to dig up thousands of tons of toxic paint sludge it had dumped on the mountain, that job is still not finished — and may never be.

Ford has removed nearly five times the amount of pollution it hauled out in previous cleanups of its old dumpsite. But despite government assurances that the work will finally be done right, Ford may once again be allowed to leave contamination in an area that serves as the watershed for 2.5 million North Jersey residents.

Further complicating cleanup efforts, Ford said it has no records to indicate how much waste was dumped in Upper Ringwood — so it’s unclear what contamination remains hidden in this rugged terrain.

A generation after the 500-acre tract was first declared a Superfund site, residents and environmentalists remain skeptical that the community will ever be made whole. Read more.

In 2005, The Record launched an award-winning series, outlining the saga, including a flash presentation, which at the time was cutting-edge.

This is a 3 part series - a documentary 5-years in the making, that began with the original series in 2005, and culminates in December 2010, when the residents finally received their settlement money. But the ending for many was far from victorious.

SOUNDCHECK WITH RED MOLLY

2010-11-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

Record music reporter Alfa Garcia and I featured the female trio, Red Molly, in the latest Soundcheck segment. They have a great folksy-blue grass sound, and were a fun group to spend some time with. We shot this video backstage at the City Winery in NYC.

FIRST THANKSGIVING

2010-11-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

Record features writer Jim Beckerman came up with a great idea for a story and participatory video, where he would take part in preparing a Thanksgiving meal with food served at the First Thanksgiving. Jim assisted some colonial re-en-actors at New Bridge Landing in River edge, NJ, who are specially trained in 17th Century culinary practices, a few days before the Thanksgiving holiday. Surprisingly to many, the food we now celebrate on Thanksgiving are far different than what was actually prepared and served.

Race for Bergen County Executive

2010-10-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

The race between incumbent Dennis McNerney - Democrat, and Bergen County Clerk Kathe Donovan -the Republican challenger was contentious and empassioned. I spent time over the course of two weeks with both candidates, and did this documentary piece that focuses not only on the campaign, but also what each candidates hopes to accomplish.

Then the results on Election Night. The people have spoken...

ALCS 2010 -Game 4 Yankees vs. Rangers

2010-10-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Recap of ALCS Game 4
Rangers shutdown the Yankees again, take 3-1 series lead. Texeiera lost for remainder of the playoffs

ALCS 2010 -Yankees vs. Rangers

2010-10-23T17:48:00.000-07:00

Recap of ALCS Game 3
Rangers and Cliff Lee shutout the Yankees 8-0 to take 2-1 series lead.

REMEMBERING FREDDY SEZ

2010-10-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

THE RABBI & THE MINISTER

2010-10-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

Rabbi Israel "Sy" Dresner forged a Civil-Rights era alliance with Martin Luther King, Jr. Retired now and in his 80's, Dresner has an interesting story to tell about his relationship with King. He was an insider in the movement, and has a unique perspective that's pretty remarkable. Recently, he sat down with reporter Jen Cunningham and myself and recanted the time in his life when he would rally local clergy and make trips from Jersey down south, with the intention of getting arrested in acts of civil disobedience. He remembered with fine detail and excitement his role in the movement, reading a letter he received from King that he wrote from the St. Augustine, FL jail. He kept the letter, keeps a copy framed on his wall, along with some photos of him with King. he says Kind was the greatest person he ever met -and he's met some important world figures. His pride is apparent. Take a look. Read more.

The NICO BLUES

2010-10-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest Soundcheck with Alfa Garcia video. This one focuses on the quintet The Nico Blues. They are a a young independent band from Wayne, some are still in college. There are two sets of brothers, and one more guy. They are handling all aspects; including recording in their own basement studio. Take a listen or read the full story by Alfa on NorthJersey.com.

I love the instrumental at the front of this first song.

NEW LONDON FIRE

2010-10-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

We've begun producing these music videos featuring local bands and musicians. Music reporter Alfa Garcia is the on-camera reporter. It's a work in progress. This is the 2nd one we've produced. This one was shot at the Music Merchant music shop in Westwood, featuring Dave Debiak -the lead singer of the local band New London Fire. Take a listen. Here's the story.

BOOKER ON EDUCATION

2010-09-29T06:32:00.000-07:00

Like manna from heaven...
Newark's superstar mayor Cory Booker had what he called his "Mark Zuckerberg Moment" last week on Oprah, as he and NJ Governor Chris Christie went on TV to receive a $100-million "Challenge Grant" from the Facebook founder M full story by The Record's Pat Alex.

FRAUD BUST

2010-09-17T07:23:00.000-07:00

53 people were arrested and charged, in a huge widespread ID theft and fraud ring, that was was busted by the Feds today. The Palisades Park fraud ring catered to Korean clients, and made millions of dollars using a variety of sophisticated and time-consuming methods. Read full story by The Record's Peter Sampson.

This video was a team effort, I did the editing and most of the shooting, and I was assisted by colleagues Chris Pedota and Tariq Zehawi, who shooting in a variety locations.

REVIS RETURNS

2010-09-07T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Jets star corner back Darelle Revis ended his holdout and inked a 4-year, $46-million deal, and thus returned to the practice field for the first time today. The two-time Pro Bowler is considered by some to be among the best cornerbacks in the NFL -a shut-down type of DB. Revis was welcomed back by coaches a teammates, as he tried to catchup after missing all of training camp.

JETS-GIANTS OPEN NEW STADIUM

2010-08-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

The Jets hosted the Giants in the very first game inside the new Meadowlands Stadium, in a pre-preseason match up that was historical, yet meant very little.

Its big. Its slick. It's got lots of places to eat... but I was confused.
Having worked games, concerts, events in Giants Stadium for over two decades, it was very very strange to be covering a game in this building. I got lost a few times, it felt foreign, and its gonna take some time...

TEETERING ON THE EXTINCTION

2010-08-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

There is a bill proposed by Senator Robert Gordon could mean the dissolution of the municipality of Teterboro, New Jersey - a town with roughly 60 residents. Consolidation is a popular concept in these tough economic times, and Gordon makes a strong case for the elimination of tiny Teterboro. While others claim its a needed tax haven for small businesses.

Read story by Jean Rimbach in The Record.

RUTGERS GLIDERS

2010-08-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Mini subs from Rutgers University are helping to predict spread of oil in the Gulf, and are playing a vital role in gathering date for the oil polluted waters.

After the oil spill, the Rutgers' Coastal Ocean Observation Lab sent down two research gliders, or mini-subs with sensors, to collect ocean data near Tampa. Read more .

NJ BOARDWALKS

2010-07-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

Boardwalks are the iconic symbol of the Jersey Shore, now made more famous by a reality TV show on MTV -"Jersey Shore."

This is a staff produced video I edited and produced that takes a look at the three emblematic boardwalks na dthe influence the MTV show has had at the shore scene.

This is one that I had a lot of technical difficulties with, seems that I was dealing with some corrupt movie clips which I could not identify, and just wouldn't behave -PC kept crashing about every 5 minutes. Its a shame because I thought it had all the makings of a strong piece.

Colleague Karen Sudol did the reporting. Read more.

The GHOST busted

2010-07-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

A fugitive accused of attempted murder who was featured on “America’s Most Wanted,” was returned Thursday to the Florida jail from which he escaped, not before he was paraded past reporters as he was escorted from the Passaic County jail.

Michael Jamal Rigby, 21, aka "The Ghost," is believed to be a gang leader in Poinciana, Fla., was accused of attempted murder and multiple other charges following a shooting during a July 2009 birthday party in which one woman was seriously injured. He also is alleged to have threatened a witness to the shooting.

Rigby, who dubbed himself “Ghost,” was tracked down and arrested by Paterson police on April 28. Read rest of the story.

Passaic County police release
America's Most Wanted featured Rigby ealier thsi year

Steinbrenner Remembered

2010-07-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

photo by THOMAS E. FRANKLIN 1995

Yankees iconic owner George Steinbrenner died this week at the age of 80, leaving behind an unrivaled legacy. here is a staff produced video I edited on "Remembering King George."

photo by THOMAS E. FRANKLIN 2000

I was never a Steinbrenner fan (except on Seinfeld) and he drove me away from being a Yankee fan was I was young. He ruined as many Yankee teams as he helped and he drove me nuts with the endless pursuit of big name guys either past their prime, unable to perform in NY, or simply overrated. Not to mention the firing of solid managers, like Dick Howser, Lou Pinella, Buck Showalter.

He created an atmosphere of paranoia at Yankee Stadium too, that reined fear and meanness upon those who had to work there. And although I have heard countless stories of his kindness and hidden generosity, in my eyes he was a bully SOB.

Here are two of my favorite photos of him, one during the Spring Training scab-era down in Ft. Lauderdale in 1995 -surrounded by reporters. This photo was taken shortly before a NY Post reporter and someone else in the media got into a testy shoving match on the field, to George's delight.

The other was of him sitting alone in the seats behind home plate at Shea Stadium before game 5 of the 2000 Subway Series -trying to look cool and tough.

JEFF JONES BECOMES NEW PATERSON MAYOR

2010-07-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

Jeffery Jones was sworn in as the new mayor of Paterson, NJ, today, vowing change and a more open government.

Jones was a long-shot in a three-candidate race, and defeated entrenched incumbent Joey Torres, shocking everyone with the huge upset on Election Day.

Jones, 52, became the city’s 45th mayor. He spoke to the hundreds of people who poured onto Market Street to watch the inaugural festivities beneath the midday summer sun.
Read more.

NJ STATE BUDGET VOTE

2010-06-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

NJ Legislature to vote on Governor Chris Christie's budget. New Jersey's Democratic-controlled Legislature later this evening approved the $29.4 billion budget, sending back to the Republican governor a spending plan that cuts hundreds of millions of dollars. The budget, had been approved by the Assembly early Tuesday morning and by the Senate hours earlier, is close to the one Gov. Chris Christie introduced in March. Read more.

DON'T DRINK & DRIVE

2010-06-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

Dumont HS students put on a demonstration about the dangers of DWI.

'MAKE SOME HISTORY'

2010-05-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

Giants and Jets make bid to host 2014 Super Bowl and new Meadowlands Stadium.
The idea of a first-ever Super Bowl in a cold-weather, open-air stadium was embraced by quarterbacks Eli Manning of the Giants and Mark Sanchez of the Jets. Read more.

LT in trouble again -and he owes me $150

2010-05-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

photo by Thomas E. Franklin / 1994

Disgraced football legend Lawrence Taylor was charged with rape, federal prosecutors said. Read the tawdry details.

Last week, I was covering this hideous story, see video below. It was a long day, and another sad chapter in the life of a former great athlete.

But there are two noteworthy asides to this story. His colorful lawyer, Arthur Aidala, and I went to college together at Purchase College. Although we were only casual acquaintances, he was a character back then, he looked different but I remembered him. We did however bump into each other at Yankee Stadium during the World Series last October, otherwise I had not seen Arthur since 1988. It was quite a surprise to see him defending Taylor. Watch the video, he put on quite a performance.

The other item of note, is an old story. LT owes me money.
Actually, its Al Porro who owes me. Porro was LT's attorney and business partner years ago-now he's a convicted felon. When they opened a restaurant together, on Rt. 17 near the stadium, -you may recall, it was sometime around 1990...they bought two prints from me of LT playing for the Giants, intended to hang in the restaurant or some office, I can't recall exactly. Only the check they sent me bounced, in fact I think it bounced a second time after the first one failed, but I can't recall for sure.

The story gets better. A few years later, I'm sitting in a court room in Hackensack waiting for the judge while covering an assignment for the AP; LT's in court for not making child payments or something. I've got time to kill, so I'm reciting this story about LT and Porro to a colleague, when the guy sitting behind me eavesdrops on my conversation. He then taps me, introducing himself as Porro's son, and asks for my card, promising to send ANOTHER check, assuring me it won't bounce this time.

That was 1992-ish, I'm still waiting for that check... So the way I see it, LT owes me $150 bucks.

As far as human beings go, he's not the greatest -for sure. But as a football player, he was the best player I've ever seen. The most dominating sports figure, other than Michael Jordan and Dwight Gooden in 1985, I have ever seen.

Al Paglione RIP

2010-04-29T19:42:00.000-07:00

photo by THOMAS E. FRANKLIN /2003

My friend and former colleague Al Paglione at The Record passed away this week, he lived a full life . Al was true New Jersey character and a great great photographer. Al was self-taught, "a longshoreman-turned-photojournalist who chronicled 35 years in the life of North Jersey."

He was a true original. A legend, and a throwback to the days of Tri-X and Nikormat's. I will miss you Al. Peace.

Here is an interview I did on FiOS1 News, talking about Al's work.

photos by THOMAS E. FRANKLIN /2004

A PITCH FOR DIABETES

2010-04-25T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hackensack's Tim Swatek is one of North Jersey's top baseball players, and he is off to a fast start this season for the Comets -on the mound and at the plate. The 6'4" Maywood resident is garnering much attention and he plans to pitch at Fordham next year. Right now the future looks bright, but three years ago Swatek was struck with Type 1 Diabetes. It was a real scare for him and his parents, but Swatek has persevered. Read full story by Art Stapleton.

ARMED & READY

2010-04-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

Eastern Christian's Gene Hill is one of North Jersey's top high school tennis players. Born with a congenital condition that left him with a short right arm, he plays with one-arm. Read more by Art Stapleton.

HEAT IS ON

2010-04-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

Temperatures reached a hundred once again, as the hottest summer on record continues...We caught up with some folks in North Jersey dealing with warm temps and trying to stay cool.

North Jersey Shot Putters

2010-04-02T05:15:00.000-07:00

North Jersey has 8 of the top female high school shot putters in the entire state, and they have shown dominance in this track event in recent years, with many titles among them. Recently, they gathered at Paramus Catholic HS for a photo shoot, and they had this to say about their sport.

Read Art Stapleton's column.

The Great Falls water park

2010-03-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

More flooding...This week Paterson's Great Falls became a local hot spot, after the recent torrential rains. The historic Paterson Great Falls Park, which was designated as a national park last year (see my video), has lured visitors from all over the region to marvel at the surging waters.

The historic park designation will be a great great thing -not only for Paterson -but for those who have never been.

This place truly is a spectacle, well worth seeing, without a doubt.
The Great Falls in winter.

The Great Flood of 2010

2010-03-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

North Jersey has more or less turned into a swamp this spring, as Nor'easters and horrendous storms have dumped record amounts of rain. Flooding has ensued, and wrecked havoc on low-lying communities and neighborhoods near swollen rivers. This is a staff video I produced, focusiing on Bergen and Passaic counties.

TARIQ GOES TO HAITI

2010-03-03T17:57:00.000-08:00

Tariq Zehawi, my esteemed colleague at The Record, just returned from a two week trip to Haiti. he was following a medical/religious group from Saddle River, headed by Dr. Mark Wade,who plans to provide short-term -and long-term care, for earthquake victims in Haiti. Tariq and reporter Joe Ax went down with Wade's group, and remained in Port Au Prince until Wade and his group returned a week later with more supplies. Read more.

I helped him edit this video, which is a little longer than most of the video reports we produce, which includes a lot of his photographs as well. Tariq did a fine job on this very difficult assignment.

BLIZZARD 2010

2010-02-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

The first major storm of the 2010 walloped North Jersey, dumping 18 inches of snow and shutting down schools, roads, and stores.

BOSCO'S BEST

2010-02-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was National Letter of Intent Signing Day for high school athletes across the nation, and North Jersey had dozens of players signing on with top college football programs. None more than National powerhouse Don Bosco Prep, which had 10 players signing with Division I schools.
The national high school football champions and the North Jersey Team of the Year, celebrated with a grand ceremony at the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel. Bosco also honored 27 of 32 seniors who intend to play college football, including 10 who will play Division I or I-AA. Read more.

JETS PREPARE FOR COLTS

2010-01-24T18:45:00.000-08:00

The Jets and head coach Rex Ryan prepare for this weekend's AFC Championship game against the Colts in Indy at the teams practice facility in Florham Park. The outspoken leader of Gang Green talks about the upcoming game, as well as young quarterback Mark Sanchez.

JETS SHOCK CHARGERS

2010-01-17T15:21:00.000-08:00

NY Jets 17, San Diego 14

Went on the road with Gang Green out to San Diego of the AFC Divisional playoff game, and Jets hung in there and stole this one from the heavily favored Chargers. Loudest stadium I've ever been in, it was crazy-loud, and a great game.
After the game was another story. My colleague Chris Pedota's car rental was mistakenly towed after the game, which left us stranded and set off a string of events that turned this trip into a nightmare.

CHARGERS CASTILLO; Pride of Garfield

2010-01-15T15:35:00.000-08:00

San Diego Chargers defensive end Luis Castillo is one of two present NFL players -the other being Myles Austin of the Cowboys, from tiny Garfield New Jersey.

In fact they both played on the same team at Garfield High, the same unheralded school that produced former Jets standout Wayne Chrebet -making that THREE NFL stars from the same small town. As Castillo prepares for upcoming playoff game against his hometown team -the Jets, we visited with him and his former high school coach Steve Mucha.

YANKS WIN 27th WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

2009-11-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

New York defeats Phillies in 6 games to clinch their 27th World Series title, and the first in the brand new Yankee Stadium.

I produced a video both before the game, and another one after the game.

Pre-Game video.

Post-game video.

OBAMA SUPPORTS CORZINE

2009-10-12T16:58:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama came to Hackensack and joined Caroline kennedy in an effort to drum up support for Governor Jon Corzine in his bid for re-election. Corzine has been trailing the challenger Republican Chris Christie, and needs the boost. Obama remains a fan favorite among area Democrats, and put on quite a performance. If only Corzine had that kinda command...

Franklin Portfolio

2009-09-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

9/11 INTERVIEW BY NEWS 12 -Long Island

2009-09-13T18:40:00.001-07:00

A nice piece done by New 12 Long Island reporter Virgina Huie, on my September 11th photographs.

share Posted using ShareThis

GROUND ZERO REVISTED

2009-09-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

Progress is replacing delay, slowly, at the former World Trade Center site known as Ground Zero. Take a look. I had not been down there in some time, and its very hard to accept that its been ten years. Yet, nothing has gone up. I believe that it essential for that site to be rebuilt in order for all of us New Yorkers to move on. Its taken too long.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

2009-08-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

WOODLAND PARK? or WEST PATERSON?
Boro residents argue over what to call their town, weeks before Election Day when they get set to vote on the name.

MIRACLE METS

2009-08-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

The Mets gave tribute to the World Championship team of 1969 with a moving ceremony at Citi Field. Seaver, Koosman, Grote, Cleon, Buddy, Kranepool, Swoboda, Ryan -all were on hand to take us back to that magical year, and to relive their improbable World Series win over the vaunted Baltimore Orioles. Good stuff.

Lets Go Mets.

ROTHMAN LISTENS-UP

2009-08-11T09:06:00.000-07:00

Congressman Steve Rothman held a series of town hall meetings to listen to what his constituents had to say about the proposed changes to national health care. The first meeting, held in a swelter-hot senior center in North Arlington, was raucous. This video caught a lot of attention and went somewhat viral, after the Drudge Report linked to it, almost crashing the NorthJersey.com server. Nearly 160,000 hits.

This was another meeting, held in Englewood Cliffs two days later.

SOMBER FAREWELL

2009-07-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

Jersey City bid farewell to fallen officer Marc DiNardo, the detective shot during a shootout with robbers on July 16th. Law enforcement from around the country turned out for the funeral procession. Full story.

HINDU STYLE WEDDING

2009-07-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

In traditional Hindu style weddings, it is customary for the groom to ride a white horse dressed in his wedding attire, and be led by a dancing congregation to the place of the wedding ceremony. This is known as the Baraat.

On Thursday, 28 year old Ajay Desai rode that white horse around his Park Ridge neighborhood, to the delight of friends, family, and neighbors who danced and sang to the rhythm of the traditional Indian music blaring from speakers.

More than 100 wedding guests participated in the Hindu style wedding celebration.
At times they were hoisting family members and friends into the air (video-journalists too!), singing and dancing all around.

Photo by Michael Karas

BOYS OF SUMMER

2009-07-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

Charlie McGill is a NorthJersey legend. Since the mid-1950's he has been the sports cartoonist for The Record, best known for his weekly sketches of the top male and female high school athletes, known as the "Athlete of the Week." He has draw such well-known North Jersey athletes such as Tim Thomas, Jim McGovern, Essence Carson, as well as the actor Ed Harris -who was a standout tail-back for Tenefly in the late '70's.

Charlie, whose been semi-retired since 1993, has embarked on a new project called the Boys of Summer, which features the top player for the Mets and Yankees respectively, from each decade since the 1960's. Readers of The Record made the selections, and a handsome pull-out section will be printed in the paper each week.

Recently, I produced this video on Charlie and his "Boys."

STADIUM FOOD

2009-06-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

Both New York baseball teams opened-up brand new stadiums this year, and both clubs boast about how great the food is. With fancy fine-dining, world renown restaurants, and high-end eateries -the food options are vast. So reporter Jeff Roberts and I went on a tasting tour to see for ourselves just how good the food really is.

After experiencing both, I enjoyed the dining experience much better at Citi. The food was better prepared, higher quality, reasonably priced, and offered more open areas to sit or stand and eat.
Yankee Stadium was VERY expensive across the board, and just not very good. Nathan's dogs were small and over-priced, pull-pork was dry, yet the garlic fries and Italian ices were good.
Here are two video tours led by Jeff.

Citi Field eats

New Yankee Stadium Eats

ATF BLOWS-UP STUFF

2009-06-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

The ATF detonated some cars, a mail box , and a mannequin, so they could work with police investigation teams and teach them new skills in how to look for clues and solve a crime after an explosion or suicide bombing. The exercise was held in a quarry in Millington. I got a flat on the way out, rear-left tire blew out after driving all over the rocky pit. Not fun.

MEMORIAL DAY

2009-05-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

Clifton remembered their war dead with two Memorial Day services, including a parade through the North Jersey town where marchers carried the names of all 301 Clifton servicemen who died in battle since WWI.

LPGA'S SYBASE

2009-05-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

The womens professional gold tour came to North Jersey this week for the LPGA's Sybase Classic and the venerable Upper Montclair CC. Here are two pre-tournament features on two of the top players, Michelle Wie and Paula Creamer.

RALLY FOR BATTERED WOMENS RIGHTS

2009-05-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

Battered women and advocates for women's rights, led by Sandra Ramos of Strengthen Our Sisters, held a Mother's Day rally on the courthouse steps in Paterson

BIDEN BACKS STIMULUS PLAN

2009-05-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

VP Joe Biden visited Lodi for a ceremonial ground-breaking on New Jersey’s first construction project funded from the $787 billion stimulus program approved in February. Biden joined Gov. Jon Corzine, Senators Menendez and Lautenberg, and hundreds of union workers who lined up in the pouring rain behind police barricades near Route 46, to get a glimpse of Biden. Read more.

S-A-N-C-H-E-Z JETS JETS JETS

2009-05-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

Jets have a new quarterback, Mark Sanchez from USC, and if his future as a QB is as bright as his personality, then the Jets just might be inching a little closer to that elusive 2nd Super Bowl ring. In his very first rookie mini-camp session (yes, I know its a little early...) he displayed great leadership, mechanics, footwork, arm-strength, and perhaps above all else -a winning attitude.

In fact, other than appearing a little shorter than the 6'3" as advertised, he looked pretty darn good. I guess we'll see...

DUNKIN' DONUTS NUTS

2009-04-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

There were two more Dunkin' Donuts stickups in Paramus by the same two brazen bandits who have now robbed three D&D's in Paramus, and are suspected in over a dozen other similar robberies across North Jersey. Check it out. Story.

YANKS HOME OPENER

2009-04-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

The Yankees and their fans opened their brand new stadium the same week the Mets christened Citi Field. And they too stunk it up in the historic home opener.

Yours truly, hours after the historic opener, and horrific loss. Photo taken by my friend Leslie Barbaro. Nice light.

METS HOME OPENER

2009-04-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

The Mets & their fans held their 2009 home opener at their the brand ball park -Citi Field. The stadium was great. The team wasn't.

the new YANKEE STADIUM

2009-04-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

The Yankees usher in the 2009 season in their brand new stadium, right across the street from the old one. Here's a sneak-peak at what Yankee fans can expect at the new billion-dollar ballpark in the Bronx. Beautiful narration done here by Paul Dottino. Also, check out this interactive presentation on both new New York stadiums done by my colleague at The Record, Bob Rebach.

CITI FIELD OF DREAMS

2009-04-04T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Amazin's usher in the 2009 season in their brand new ballpark, Citi Field. Modelled after Ebbetts Field, Citi Field is a stark improvement to old Shea, and may prove to be a field of dreams for the Mets. Beautiful narration done here by Paul Dottino. Also, check out this interactive presentation on both new New York stadiums done by my colleague at The Record, Bob Rebach.

GREATER FALLS

2009-03-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

This week, the House approved a bill that would make Paterson's Great Falls part of the National Park Service. Read this week's story by The Record's Herb Jackson.

This has been a long time coming. The Great Falls was denied such a designation in the 1970's just when it was poised and ready to join the NPS after a strong movement by city officials led by then mayor Pat Kramer -see video. Paterson was left at the alter by the Ford Administration, and left stranded without proper monies to make it a destination. Obviously, with the federal designation comes big federal dollars, making this a HUGE economic opportunity for Jersey's third largest city.

If you've never been, you should go. The Falls are sight to behold, smack in the middle of the city, in Paterson's rich historic district. It's a spectacle, one that changes with the seasons. In winter, much of the Passaic River freezes around the falls. In spring the water moves over the falls with such ferociousness, it kicks water spray into the air -so much so you often need a pancho.

Paterson is a city that never seems to catch a break. It's been a hard luck city. Perhaps now, finally, the Great Falls will bring proper recognition, and more importantly tourist dollars, to the Silk City. This is great news for the Great Falls.

Farewell to Chief Reda

2009-03-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Woodland Park (West Paterson) bids farewell to it's Police Chief Robert "Bobby Reda."

NO ORDINARY RECESSION

2009-03-14T19:28:00.000-07:00

NJ Governor Jon Corzine called these tough economic times, "no ordinary recession," in his annual state budget address in Trenton, where he outlines some belt-tightening.

AVERY RETURNS

2009-03-04T19:10:00.000-08:00

Troubled NHL player Sean Avery returns to the Rangers after clearing wavers. Avery was suspended and then released by his former team after making crude comments about his former girl friend actress Elisha Cuthbert of the television show "24" and the movie "Old School," and her hockey playing boyfriend Dion Phaneuf. Avery also dated Rachel Hunter, the former Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model and actress who is now the girlfriend of Los Angeles Kings center Jarret Stoll. Avery claims to be a changed man. Time will tell. Here's a look at his first day back with the Blueshirts.

FIREFIGHTER'S SKI RACE

2009-02-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

Firemen from 45 departments across New Jersey competed in the 22nd annual downhill ski race at Hidden Valley to benefit St. Barnabas Burn Foundation. Thrills, chills, and spills -all for a good cause.

A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTIE WHITMAN

2009-02-14T18:54:00.000-08:00

Former NJ Governor and EPA director Christie Whitman discusses her environmental record, EPA's response after 9/11, and her strained dealings with President Bush and Vice President Cheney. Her comments are quite surprising; describing Bush as being easily swayed by Cheney on issues related to the environment.

TORRE TALES

2009-02-04T18:41:00.000-08:00

Ex-Yankees manager Joe Torre discusses his new book "The Yankee Years," and addresses the controversy surrounding the book he wrote with Tom Verducci. Video was shot prior to a book-signing at Barnes & Noble in mid-town Manhattan.

A Conversation with John Scher

2009-02-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

Legendary rock concert promoter John Scher talks about The Who, Stones, Sinatra, and Springsteen from his front row seat to rock-n-roll history.

INAUGURATION DAY

2009-01-23T08:28:00.000-08:00

North Jereyans joined 2 million others in Washington DC to witness history, as Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. This a video I produced along with a team of photographers and reporters from The Record; Chris Pedota, Kevin R. Wexler, Giovanna Fabiano and Joseph Ax. See full coverage here.

Additional photos by Thomas E. Franklin / The Record

A CONVERSATION WITH LOU DUVA

2009-01-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

In the latest installment of "A Conversation With..." we catch-up with the Godfather of boxing, Lou Duva, who candidly recalls his humble beginnings in the fight halls of Paterson, rising through the boxing ranks, and some of his fondest memories in a storied career in the "sweet-science."

VIEW TO A KILL

2009-01-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

For this past Sunday's Giants vs. Eagles playoff game, I gained access to the roof of Giants Stadium, where I shot action photos during the first quarter. While it was quite cold and windy, and deathly high, it provided a spectacular view of the military fighters fly-over, the field below, as well as the surrounding North Jersey landscape.

Yes, that's me waving to the camera from high above, photo taken by my friend an colleague Chris Pedota.

GIANTS FALL TO EAGLES 23-11

2009-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

The Giants fall to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional playoffs, 23-11. The Giants were lackluster and were unable to find the endzone in game that brought the defending Super Bowl champs' season to a disappointing end. Here are some photos from the game.

Photos by Thomas E. Franklin / The Record

A CONVERSATION WITH BRENDAN BYRNE

2009-01-06T10:02:00.000-08:00

"A Conversation With..." is a new video project series we've launched at The Record. It will feature candid interviews with prominent people of the world of politics, business, sports, entertainment, and literature. This video is the first installment.

JETS FALL TO FISH, NO PLAYOFFS AGAIN

2008-12-28T15:11:00.000-08:00

Jets lose 24-17 to the Dolphins in dismal showing during season finale, denying them playoff berth, in perhaps Brett Favre's final game.

SEASON'S GREETINGS FROM CAMP BUCCA IRAQ

2008-12-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

New Jersey National Guard troops send good tidings from Camp Bucca, Iraq, to loved ones back home in New Jersey.

This a video I produced with colleague Tyson Trish, who was in Iraq with columnist Mike Kelly, reporting on the NJ National Guard. This is part of our year-long report, NJ at War.

GIANTS FALL TO EAGLES 20-14

2008-12-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

Giants were lackluster in ho-hum loss to rival Eagles, in game that had little at stake for Big Blue.

METS STADIUM ALMOST READY

2008-12-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

NY Mets executives gave a behind-the-scenes tour of the nearly completed new baseball stadium, Citifield. The state-of-the-art facility, which draws inspiration from the old Brooklyn Dodgers stadium -Ebbet's Field, promises to be a huge hit with fans, offering many upgraded amenities.

DENVER RAINS ON JETS 34-17

2008-11-30T17:32:00.000-08:00

It was a dismal affair for Gang-Green, in a sloppy and soggy defeat to Jay Cutler and the Broncos. Denver took a 27-14 lead into halftime, scoring 14 points off two Jets turnovers. Denver's win snapped New York's five-game winning streak. It was as cold and nasty a night as I could remember, lousy conditions to shoot in.

Photos by Thomas E. Franklin / The Record

PARK OR LANDFILL?

2008-11-10T06:57:00.000-08:00

Overpeck Park nears completion

Construction on a three-year plan to convert old landfills and swamps into recreational areas at the 120-acre county park is wrapping up.

ELECTION DAY

2008-11-04T15:43:00.000-08:00

ELECTION DAY 2008
North Jersey voters and politicians get an early jump beating the polling traffic.
This video was a team effort. I coordinated our coverage, and video was shot by photographers Carmine Galasso, Tariq Zehawi, Liz Lara, web producer Kim Mineo, and reporter Mike Feeney.

The MEANING OF OBAMA'S CANDIDACY

2008-10-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

I interviewed dozen's of subjects for this pre-Election Day video commentary on the meaning of Barack Obama's candidacy for the office of President of the United States. I tried to interview as many thoughtful and insightful people I could, and mix together their comments. This is a sound-bite driven piece, with very little B-Roll. Each subject was asked the same question: "As an African-American, what does Barack Obama's candidacy mean to you?"

The JOKER

2008-10-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

Local make-up artist Jeremy Selenfriend, of Emerson's A Monster in My Closet, makes up Chris Mann as Batman's The Joker for Halloween.

EMERGENCY ROOM REOPENS

2008-10-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hackensack University Medical Center reopened for business the ER at Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood, 10 months after hospital went bankrupt and closed. The HUMC staff and community excitedly opened their doors at 9am today. Read full story by The Record's Lindy Washburn.

JAZZ LEGEND WARREN BATTISTE

2008-10-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

Legendary New Orleans jazz guitarist Warren Battiste has been living in Dumont ever since he fled New Orleans in the wake of Katrina. He is a well-known recording artist and will appear in an upcoming movie about Chess Records. Read the full story by The Record's Jim Beckerman.

I spent a few hours with Mr. Battiste in his tiny apartment in Dumont, a man as soft-spoken as his soothing guitar strumming. Having visited New Orleans a few months ago, we had much to talk about. He told me his harrowing tale of survival during Katrina, and his fending for himself after he made the fateful decision to ride out the storm by playing a Hurricane-gig at a downtown club. When the gig was over, and he realized he needed to get out of town as the storm approached, it was too late. Remarkable, he perservered.

NETS MEDIA DAY

2008-09-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

The New Jersey Nets introduced a new team that features many new faces, and a roster of young talent. Today was their annual media day. Yes, they still have Vince Carter, but not much else other than some young unproven players. It should be an interesting season. Read The Record's Al Iannazzone's blog In the Zzone.

ELI GETS WAXED

2008-09-23T18:49:00.000-07:00

Bet you didn't know Eli Manning and I have at least three things in common. For one, we both have two brothers, albeit his older brother plays QB a little better than mine -but not much better. Secondly, we were both ran around on the field at University of Phoenix Stadium moments after the Giants trounced the Evil Empire in Super Bowl XLII. OK, he had a little more do with that than me, but I sure made some nice pics of it all. Even got a splash of Tom Coughlin's GaterAid bath on my sleeve.

And lastly, now we both have a wax statue at MadameTussauds in Mid-Town.

Here is a YouTube video someone sent to me. I've never seen it, or been inside. Wax people make me nervous.

REMEMBERING 9/11

2008-09-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

This week marks the 7th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York. Hard to believe. To commemorate this important date, I put together some words and pictures that tell the story of my experiences covering the tragic events that day. Working on this piece and reviewing all my raw images from that day, brought back a rush of memories and emotions.

Many of the photos in this multimedia project have never been published before, and it was interesting to match the images to the words I wrote for the audio. To see it come together as a narrative was satisfying, despite the somber and devastating subject matter.
The Record published my story.

The Record's website NorthJersey.com did a 9/11 Anniversary live blog today, a comprehensive running report on today's commemorative events.

FIRE SPRINKLERS SAVE LIVES

2008-09-06T19:07:00.000-07:00

The NJ Division of Consumer Affairs will decide whether to require older high-rise apartment buildings to install sprinkler systems for fire safety. The Division of Consumer Affairs has until Sept. 17 to approve or reject the proposed regulations, which are being pushed both by fire departments across the state and the fire sprinkler industry. But rental apartment building owners, and individual apartment owners, have complained that the cost of doing so is too high. Read Joe Ax's story in The Record.

Today, fire officials and sprinkler industry rep's used a side-by-side fiery demonstration to show the effectiveness of sprinklers.

FOOTBALL TRAGEDY

2008-08-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

In one-week's time, two Bergen County teens died playing football, while another was seriously injured. Sean Fisher of Waldwick died suddenly during football practice running drills on a mild summer night. It was his 13th birthday. His mom was at home baking cupcakes when she got the call.

James and Shelia Fisher lost their only son due to an undetected heart condition. On Friday I covered the Sean's funeral. Sean is my son's name, and he too is an only child.

This is NOT an assignment I enjoy doing. Every news photographer I know hates having to cover funerals for obvious reasons. They are uneasy, somber, and delicate assignments. But I tell myself that this boy's life had meaning, hundreds turned out to pay respects to the young man, and by covering the funeral I am in a way paying my respects, as much as I detest being there. Here is link to video shot by my colleague Kim Mineo.

BARCLAYS COMES TO RIDGEWOOD

2008-08-26T18:43:00.000-07:00

I spent a very busy 6 days at the Ridgewood Country Club blogging live throughout the week at The Barclays golf tournament -the first round of the FedEx Cup playoffs. Check -out the live blog. I was posting updates throughout each day of the tourny, receiving live reports from Record reporters Andy Vasquez, Greg Mattura, Steve Adamek, and Tyson Trish.

I also posted videos and photo gallery's by Tyson and myself.

FINAL ROUND: Singh wins
Vijay Singh wins The Barclays, defeating Sergio Garcia on the 2nd playoff hole.
See photo gallery.

ROUND 3
Third round action at The Barclays at the Ridgewood Country Club.
Kevin Streelman soars to the top of the leader board.
See photo gallery.
See Kevin Streelman video.

ROUND 2
Last year's Barclays champion Steve Stricker takes the lead during 2nd round action at Ridgewood.
See photo gallery.
See Steve Stricker video.

ROUND 1
Little-known Hunter Mahan shoots an electrifying 62 during the opening round.
See photo gallery.
See Hunter Mahan video.

PRACTICE ROUND / PRO-AM
PGA players tee-off n the Barclays Pro-Am, the last day of practice before the start of the tour event.
See photo gallery.
See Phil Mickelson video.

TUESDAY PRACTICE ROUND
PGA players get ready for the Barclays at the Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus.
See photo gallery.
See Padraig Harrington video.

FUNERAL FOR A FALLEN FIREFIGHTER

2008-08-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Mahwah firefighter Michael Drozd, a piper with the Bergen County Firefighters Pipe Band, was laid to rest today. Last week, I posted an entry and video on this blog after he was killed in an automobile accident shortly after performing at a fundraiser for John McCain in Teaneck, which I covered. In a strange but sad coincidence, I taped the Drozd's band warming up that night, see earlier posts.

Today, there was a funeral mass and burial at the Mahwah Cemetery, hundreds of firemen from Mahwah and many of the neighboring towns lined the street between the church and cemetery. It was an honorable send off, albeit a sad and senseless loss. See full story in The Recor d.

WAITING FOR McCAIN

2008-08-15T17:54:00.000-07:00

Republican presidential candidate John McCain made his 6th visit to Jersey, attending a private fund-raiser at the Marriott at Glenpoint in Teaneck.$1,000 got you in the door, $25,ooo got you a photo with the Arizona Senator. Four hours of waiting got me nada. Not even a glimpse. I ended up using tow shots by my colleague Tyson Trish, who photographed McCain exiting a plane at the airport. McCain ducked the cameras and reporters. Protesters lined the curb, and bagpipers played outside the door waiting for the candidate to arrive -nearly two hours behind schedule.

Sadly, Michael Drozd of the Bergen County Firefighters Pipe Band, the very band I video taped warming up outside the hotel, was killed later that night in a car crash on route 4 hours after performing at the fund raiser. The group has a strong cult-like following, known for playing pop hits such as "Louie Louie" and "Tequila."

PGA TOUR COMES TO RIDGEWOOD CC

2008-08-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

The PGA Tour comes to the Ridgewood Country Club August 19-24, and the course has undergone some subtle changes in preparation for The Barclays. Club pro David Reasoner takes us on a tour of the prestigious RCC pointing out some of the changes the club has made in attempt to Tiger-proof the course.

DANGERS OF ARTIFICIAL TURF

2008-08-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

For months now, several athletic fields in North Jersey with artificial turf have been closed because of high lead levels. Test have been conducted, questions have been raised, but no one really knows how serious the danger is. Crazy to think that kids are rolling around on lead particles, its' not exactly a new finding that lead is dangerous to kids...

Many of the fields will likely reopen in the coming weeks now that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has concluded the turf poses no health risk. In this video we talked some parents and coaches -read story by Matt Van Dusen, about how they felt about their Little Leagues playing on the artificial turf.

PEQUANNOCK LOSES TITLE GAME

2008-07-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Pequannock Little League got trounced, 14-3, in the state championship game by Bordentown. They simply didn't play well, and were stunned by the 9 runs and 5 home runs BT put up in the 3rd inning. They never got it going. Here's a look.

UMPS MAKE CONTROVERSIAL CALL

2008-07-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Pequannock Little Leaguer's I've been following lost 5-4 to Bordentown -read Tim Leonard's game story that was ultimately decided on a close play at home plate. With the scored tied at 3-3 in the 4th, a Bordentown runner leaped over the tag of the catcher on a bang-bang play at the plate. In my video you can see what appears to be a slight brush off the leg by the catcher, but it's really too close to call. The ump called the runner safe -despite Pequannock's manager Dan Leva's protest.

PQ tied it back up at 4-4 on Anthony Scillieri's 2nd dinger of the night, but then Bordentown went ahead again on a home run in the 5th. It was a great game, very closely played.

The two teams will play for the state title on Tuesday night.

BOYS OF SUMMER

2008-07-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

TALE OF TWO LITTLE LEAGUE TEAMS
Pequannock and North Bergen South have made the New Jersey Little League state finals and play this week in a four team round-robin. Over 300 teams competed this year in NJ, in hopes of reaching Williamsport -the international Little League Championship round played in Pennsylvania.

Both teams are gearing up; Pequannock Little League has dedicated their season to a stricken teammate, and North Bergen South has beaten the odds all year. These two videos take a look at two special teams. Pay particular attention to the big surprise in the North Bergen piece -very funny...
North Bergen South Little League

Pequannock Little League