Blogs 12 Long Island

Kiss Me! I'm Irish!

By Danielle Campbell

It's that time of year again--to find my "Kiss Me I'm Irish!" button {although I am mostly Scottish, Danish, Dutch, Italian and a wee bit Irish}!

Saint Patrick happens to be one of my most favorite Saints!

That happened, not because of the parades, the green bagels and beer, the parties, the hats and the buttons. Saint Patrick's life became a very powerful message of strength, endurance, morality, after I read

How The Irish Saved Civilization: The Untold Story of Ireland's Heroic Role from the Fall of Rome to the Rise of Medieval Europe, a non-fiction historical book written by Thomas Cahill.

Every year millions of Americans celebrate St. Patrick's Day, but they may not be aware of how great an influence St. Patrick was on the subsequent history of civilization.

Not only did he bring Christianity to Ireland, he instilled a sense of literacy and learning that would create the conditions that allowed Ireland to become "the isle of saints and scholars" -- and thus preserve Western culture while Europe was being overrun by barbarians.

During this time cities were ransacked, priceless art was destroyed and libraries were burned to the ground.

In other words, as the last vestiges of the Roman Empire fell away, learning was lost. As the libraries and books went up in smoke, the ancient world’s literature, science, math, technology and order quickly followed. Cahills' account of the young brave Patricious, who returned to Ireland after imprisonment and slavery, is compelling, fascinating, --- a story line that sounds more like a Hollywood movie.

Saint Patrick's Day---celebrates an ancient man --that truly legends are made of!

However I do believe he would not be so thrilled in some of the ways we celebrate his life--because he dedicated his life to the Gaelic tribes and his life was spent trying to rid them of their ways of debauchery.

And so it was with great honor that I was part of the Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Huntington.

Regardless of our faith and heritage, Saint Patrick is a man for all of us to emulate--his life, ----saved civilization.

And I say that's a great reason to wear a "Kiss me, I'm Irish button".

http://www.northforktrolley.com/

What A Year!

Danielle Campbell

I know it's 2009 -- but what a year 2008 was!

I was looking back at all my pictures and it makes me realize how blessed I am!

That's my birthday with the girls, January 2008

Nicaragua with my son February, 2008

Working in the clinic in Amatitan, Nicaragua 2008

Nicaragua 2008

Building Homes in Amatitan

Hard working kids from Our Lady Queen Of Martyrs, Centerport

Little girls in Amatian making their communion

Nicaragua 2008

Saying Goodbye Nicaragua 2008

March 2008

Grandma turns 90!

Party girls!

The very same day I left for Lourdes, France on assignment.

20 hours later--Lourdes

NYP Detective Steven McDonald in Lourdes

Cameraman Dave Leibowitz making magic happen with the camera!

Lourdes 2008

Dave and I traveled to Lourdes, France with Detective Steven McDonald and 300 teens with special needs from Long Island and the tri state area on a pilgrimage of faith and healing!

{The Lourdes story was just nominated for an EMMY!}

Blessed Mother statue in the Grotto

Place where Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette

Easter Night 2008

Beautiful, Happy Liz!

Candle Light procession

Beautiful Lourdes 2008

William, Lourdes 2008

Detective Steven McDonald and dear friends!

Steven with children with special needs.

Steven shared his story of survival with all of us!

{I wrote about Lourdes extensively--I think it is still in the News 12 blogs archives :) }

We had alot of fun!

It was a real celebration!

It was an amazing story to cover!

Interviews on the street in Lourdes!

That's Dave with NYPD Ed Lenahan

Members of the band that traveled with us!

It was a story that changed my life!

May 2008

USS kearsarge

Memorial Day

Fleet Week

Cameraman Brandon ready for his mission!

I flew in a military chopper and landed onboard the USS Kearsarge so that I could interview ROTC students from Long Island.

May 2008

My Niece Lizzie makes her communion!

Losing the emmy last year--

Nicaragua was nominated

{but Nicaragua did win 2 Edward R Murrows!}

Winning Education Award From Nassau County BOCES {with my son, Michael}

My son David makes his confirmation!

I think this brings me up to the end of May---

Stay tuned for more "The Year In Pictures!" in my next blog!

It has been quite a journey and when I look back, I remeber the good and the trying times--

but always, I am Thankful!

Comments (4)

Doug and Dan's Wild Adventures! { A Photo Journey!}

By Danielle Campbell

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

Boy does the time go fast!

I wanted to write a blog on Doug and my adventures shooting our Christmas Special "T'is The Season"!

We spent three days criss-crossing Long Island--shooting what we call "wraps" or scenes--at different holiday locations!

Our Crew consisted of our ProducerDeb Gade, Brian Endres, our Cameraman. Ron Vilca and Ray Egluezebal, also News 12 cameramen, drove and helped set up lighting and other equipment along with Jeff "the intern."

That shot with the camera on top of the car is how Brian shot the scenes we used with the trolley--crazy right!

Here is the gang in Patchogue ~

This is Deb and Doug checking to see if Brian will be safe while we shoot this Trolley scene!

We started our shoot at a Christmas tree farm out on the east end and Doug told us as we drove out--"Dan and Deb--they have the largest shop for Christmas ornaments!"--and then muttered under his breath something like "God help me!"

Does Doug look like he is having fun or what!!! ~

It was there Doug wrenched his back because I made him---errrrrr---I asked him to get the bigger tree for our News 12 Holiday show---he dragged it over to the trolley for the scene--where I say--"oh wow Doug that is a perfect tree"--while I stand in trolley doorway--but meanwhile we had to do several takes because I was laughing at how big it was--I couldn't even see Doug behind it!

Doug doing a moose impression I think ~

Well, we got those scenes done--we kind of make it up what we are going to say as we go along.

Deb, our producer, tells us where we are going, what segments we are introducing, and Doug and I figure out what we are doing at each location. We are really good at improvising!

Brian our cameraman telling us his ideas ~

NEXT we decide to take the trolley over to Love Lane in Mattituck for the next scene. That was quite a challenge because we had to park this gigantic trolley on tiny little Love Lane without upsetting too many of the patrons.

Here we go to Love Lane ~ !

Here is Tony, the driver for North Fork Trolley ~

He was so patient and kept us safe and sound ~

Tony let me use his mirror to fix my hair!! ~

HELLO LOVE LANE! ~

Doesn't Look like there is a lot of LOVE on Love Lane! :) ~

Actually we are trying to work out this scene and as usual I want it my way!

Doug is always so smooth! ~

Look at the size of the Trolley we had to park! ~

On camera everyone's HAPPY! ~

That was the end of Day 1.

We shot an open and a close--two at the tree farm, one at Love Lane and another scene in downtown Patchogue in front of their Christmas Tree and Creche!

Deb kept track of everything with her big clip board! ~

Happy Birthday Doug!~

Day 2 of our Christmas Shoot was Doug's birthday!

First stop--The Bide A Wee in Wantagh!

http://www.bideawee.org/

Debi wanted "LOTS OF PUPPIES WITH RED BOWS!"

As I said, Deb has the vision---

And so Doug and I struggled to say our lines, laughing, while holding 8 puppies who just wanted to do anything but sit still!

An arm full of puppy love! ~

We want to take all of them home! ~

I came this close to adopting, but my three cats would freak! ~

NEXT STOP--Krisch's in Massapequa!

If you have never been there--you MUST GO!

http://www.krischs.com/

I got Ice Cream in his eye! ~

At Krisch's we made Candy Cane Ice Cream on Camera! ~

The patron's at the restaurant were so patient!

Doug thought it was pretty good! ~ We were so full when we left Krisch's!

While we were in Krisch's--however ---it started to snow!

And Deb came up with the great idea that we should go sleigh riding!

AND she happened to have a sleigh in her car!

You want us to go down---there!!!! ~

And so if our producer wants us to Sleigh Ride--WE RIDE!

{Despite the sign that said you shouldn't!}

What a birthday Doug had that day! :):)

Day 3

We were all a bit tired of being creative and festive, but somehow we found the strength!

Today was the carousel at Hempstead Lake State Park---

That's Brian setting up at the Carousel ~

There's Ray working hard with our producer Debi ~

Deb and I--horsing around!! ~

The carousel is a must see!

The full-sized carousel was made between 1912 and 1916 by the Herschell-Spillman Company of North Tonawanda, New York, one of the leading manufacturers of carousels in America.

All of the horses are hand carved--their tales are made from real horse hair and they are decorated with real gold leaf paint!

http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/carousel/

After the carousel we traveled across the island to quaint Cold Spring Harbor where we visited the Gourmet Goddess Shop!

It was beautifully decorated and the owner, Barbara Esatto fed us delicious cookies and yummy soup!

http://www.exploreli.com/entertainment/localguide/dining/136477,0,1429337.venue

After that we stopped at the largest menorah on Long Island, a fire truck was needed to bring the rabbis up to the top to light it! It was quite impressive--but unfortunately I have no pictures of that--my camera batteries died!

All of us had a wonderful time--it really was a ball!

Doug, Deb, Brian, myself and the rest of the crew feel very grateful that we are given the opportunity to bring a little bit of Christmas here on Long Island, and lots of holiday spirit to our viewers!

To us, the Christmas show is ~ a gift!

I saved the best picture for last!!!! ~

Every once in awhile during the shoot we would get on each other's nerves!! ~

Doug and I should get a movie contract!! HAHAHA!

He's A Good Kid!

By Danielle Campbell

My nephew, Jacob Jones, was invited to THE inauguration!

Jacob, who grew up in Huntington Station and went to Walt Whitman High School, now attends George Washington University as a pre med student. He happens to have near perfect grades {the little brat!}.

Jake, as we call him, is a good kid, an Eagle Scout, an Alter Boy, a Student Leader, an excellent Lacrosse Goalie, etc. etc. etc!!!!!

But let's face it, there are plenty of "kids" out there, just as accomplished. We all know that.

However, for my little Jakie, my red headed nephew, who was shy and mischievous and sweet all at the same time, this has proven to be his time to shine!

My sister called me and I could tell by the tone of her voice--she was about to tell me another story on some wonderful thing that "Jake" is doing or has done.

But this,-- this invitation to THE inauguration took me a bit by surprise. Jake was invited because of--well--because how great he is.

Great as in being a great guy--a good person--someone who works very very hard to accomplish many things.

Wow!

Somehow, someone noticed that my nephew, who--in the great pool of millions of others who are as accomplished--got picked!

Ok, so I listened to my sister--uh--let's say--go on and on ---about the newest greatest thing to happen to "Jakie"--That's what she calls him--and I being {cranky mother of four kids, none who are alter boys, eagle scouts or pre med students} THE PROUD Aunt --------thought---yea yea yea--sure sure sure!

It's one of those--"YOU HAVE BEEN PICKED" now pay us big bucks and you can go--kind of deals.

Well as my sister gushed and described the bright red ribbon wrapped around the inauguration invitation, which detailed the week's events ----seminars, inaugural balls, luncheons, yadda yadda yadda---with the likes of Al Gore, General Powell, etc.----I knew it was the real deal!

Jake even had official inaugural outfits that he had to wear and he had to bring a tux!

I wrote Jake after it all of the hoopla and asked him to tell me about it-----

This is what he wrote:

Aunt Dan!

Hey! Yeah the Inauguration was absolutely incredible. I was on a huge line at 2am waiting to get into the viewing area. I stationed myself along 3rd street and Constitution Ave. Slowly me and my new found friends of UPIC made our way up to the front as the line became inevitably wider despite police efforts. We snaked our way up to the front holding one another very tight, knowing that if one of us let go then we would be permanently separated.

We spent eight hours huddling together under blankets and singing a number of different songs and chants. Finally, around 7:45 am the police and secret service opened a small gate right in front of us and let 60 people in at a time.

Luckily, my entire group of friends made it through the gate among the first 60. Then we proceeded to ditch our food and drinks in order to go through security. On the other side we made a run for a spot along the fence in order to try to get at least a decent view of the ceremony.

The presidential motorcade drove right by our location, down constitution Ave. and we saw Obama, Bush and Bush's parents. The ceremony was really far away and difficult to hear, but being there was an experience of its own.

I also got to spend all this time with new found friends who I will never forget. I will always remember not only that day, but that entire weekend experience for the amazing individuals I got to spend time with and the great opportunities I was given.

That night I also went to an Inaugural Ball at the Air and Space Museum that was reserved just for the students of the UPIC program. All night we joked around, danced and took hundreds of pictures.

The next morning we sadly had to depart. However, I look back now at the speeches we heard from General Powell and Al Gore in addition to the numerous seminars and I can confidently say that the experience has left an everlasting impact on me.

To finish up may I add again that my friends from UPIC were tremendous and I definitely plan on seeing them again time after time throughout my life.
Aunt Danielle I will post my pictures asap,

Ok well I think that is enough.

Love you!!!! Take care!!!! =) Jake

Yea yea yea-----Jake IS A GREAT KID!!!!!!

p.s.

This is the information on the UPIC program Jake mentioned:

Eligibility

The Inauguration of the President and Vice President is a momentous occasion. The University Presidential Inaugural Conference (UPIC) places the strictest limitations on available space and eligibility.

Participation in the Conference is reserved exclusively for alumni of the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF), the Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC) and the International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP) and members of select honors societies who are enrolled in a post-secondary program at the time they attend the Conference. Scholars who have attended these programs have met the academic requirements and have demonstrated the leadership qualities necessary to make a positive contribution to the quality and integrity of this historic inaugural conference

Ken Grimball

By Danielle Campbell

News 12 Long Island's beloved--and by all accounts most popular--journalist Ken Grimball tells GREAT stories!

Award winning, esteemed, respected, Ken Grimball has spent the more than 20 years here at News 12 Long Island telling Long Islanders like it is!

But last week, the week of the inaugural, Ken shared a different story, a personal story, a story of courage in the face of hatred, humility.

Ken, a descendant of southern slaves, shared with our viewers what happened to him when he was 17 years old.

Ken was attending High School in Charleston, South Carolina.

Ken, who grew up in New York and did not know the ways of this southern state, attempted to attend a movie at a segregated theater.

He explained, matter of factly, how he was told he could not enter the front door of the theater and that instead he must walk to the back, and enter the "colored entrance".

Ken, who felt this was a great injustice, said in a gracious and gentleman-like manner, "Well, then no thank you. I will instead will go see this movie when I am back in New York."

As I interviewed Ken and he shared his story, it was hard, so very hard for me to believe that ANYONE, ANYWHERE would ask Ken to do such a thing.

The thought that anyone would degrade this kind, considerate, intelligent man was hard for me to digest.

Ken smiled after he shared the story with me, aware of how uncomfortable I felt, courteous not to let me feel the sharp pain he had suffered.

On A Wing and A Prayer

By Danielle Campbell

If there was ever a reason to use that phrase--the crash of US Air Flight 1549 was it!

U.S. Airways Crashed into Hudson River

It was about 3:30 in the afternoon-----I was in my office and had just changed into my yoga clothes so I could make the 4:00 class down the road. I took off all my "on air" make up and I was finishing up writing an email, a thank you card and I was on the phone. That's when it crossed the wire--In the old days when there were teletype machines that printed out the news--bells would go off serving as a signal to the newsroom that something big has just happened in the world.

U.S. Airways Crashed into Hudson River

In the olden days--{early 90's} we would rush to the machine and see what had happened.

Now in this computer age--a small lighting bolt appears on the top of our screens with a brief headline. So as I was talking on the phone--doing the multi tasking thing--the lighting bolt came on--mind you it's tiny and easy to miss--all it said was "Plane down NYC."

Map showing the route of a US Airways flight that crashed into ...

A US Airways jetliner is seen after it crashed into the Hudson ...

U.S. Airways Lands in Hudson River

I kept on listening to the caller, and writing my email but now had my eyes directed at the top of the screen waiting for the next bit of information. Moments later it appeared "Plane Down Hudson River".

US Airways Jet Crashes into Hudson River

The caller said something like--"are you there? are you listening? and I just said uh- uh -uh I got to go.

Of course we all thought it was a small plane.

I ran into the newsroom to see what was going on and I yelled out--who's anchoring??

That means--who is anchoring the breaking news--but there was so much commotion--no one responded.

They were just a little busy launching the News 12 chopper and redirecting news crew and live trucks.

{This is the worst time of the day for us to have a story of that magnitude "break"---that's because all of our reporters and cameras have been out all day long gathering news and pictures and by 3:30 everything is reaching the final stages--so it's like starting all over again with a much much tighter deadline!}

Oh and by the way--the story that just broke is about 40 miles away! {Big time Kudos to our assignment desk, crews, reporters, producers etc for making our coverage happen so well!}

I realized I was the only anchor that could get on the air--so I ripped off my yoga stuff--threw on a jacket and ran down to the studio with my make up bag. {I had none on because it was the end of my day and I was preparing to leave}

I jumped in the seat--threw some lipstick on and said ok let's go up. Behind the scenes--the director was in place --the producer was emailing me information----the editors were taking in any images they could get of the crash --basically everyone was scrambling! I went up live and let viewers know what we knew and we immediately had a live picture from chopper 12! The sight was unbelievable------

U.S. Airways Crashed into Hudson River

Drew Scott quickly joined me. Drew knows his stuff--he is an aviation expert--along with Bill Korbel, who is a pilot as well as our chief meteorologist! They were wonderful--fascinating--as they explained to our viewers how UNLIKELY it is that this plane is intact and floating on the Hudson River.

A US Airways jetliner is seen after it crashed into the Hudson ...

Drew described other crashes he had witnessed where a water landing was attempted but the plane ended up cart wheeling and breaking up into deadly debris!

We watched in awe as the rescue operation unfolded in front of us--shaking our heads--in disbelief.

U.S. Airways Crashed into Hudson River

We took calls from eyewitnesses who excitedly described what they were seeing--people floating in the water--holding onto flotation devices!

Passengers are rescued after a U.S. Airways plane landed in ...

About an hour after the crash--we learned--all passengers onboard the aircraft were rescued. Not only were they rescued--but they were going to be ok!

A passenger is transported by emergency personnel after a U.S. ...

Passengers are rescued after a U.S. Airways plane crashed into ...

Later that evening the governor called it the "Miracle on the Hudson." Survivors thanked the heroic pilot for saving their lives and one man put it into perspective when he told camera crews he was headed home to kiss his daughter.

The pilot, 57 year old Chesley Sullenberger was a fighter pilot and knew how to land planes in the water.

I kept thinking how the heroic pilot's entire life lead to this moment.

Without the training and dedication Sullenberger gave to flying aircraft, he would have never been able to pull off this "against all odds" landing!

I bet if you asked him he would say, "I was just doing my job!"

But I would say Captain Sullenberger was the right man for the right job!

In this image taken from the website of Safety Reliability Methods, ...

It's a miracle--absolutely!

The Statue of Liberty stands in the background as rescue boats ...

This landing and rescue rekindles my hope that some one up there knows what they're doing!

Emergency personnel search for more passengers after a U.S. ...

It served as a reminder how wonderful people are and how heroic they can be.

And gave new meaning to the old phrase "On A Wing and A Prayer!~"

Lea Tyrrell and Scott Feldman came on set around 5 and took over--and I went back to my desk.

Passengers stand on the wings of a US Airways plane as a ferry pulls up to it after it landed in the Hudson River in New York (Source: Reuters)

There waiting for me was my half written email, the note card I was writing, phone messages, text messages and new emails.

I took off my suit jacket, put back on my yoga clothes, shut off the light and closed the door.

I got in my car and thought, isn't it amazing how life goes on...

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Christmas At The Mall

By Danielle Campbell

This Christmas I am grateful! I am grateful for the gift of my children.

They are so joyful, appreciative, fun to be around! They make me laugh constantly!

This year, when there was an apparent mistake under the Christmas Tree, the boys said "Well apparently Santa Clause is Blonde!"

They are amazing people, smart, kind, caring, and grounded.

This year, compared to other years, there were limited gifts under the tree.

I was a bit nervous about it, even though I had warned the kids, "this year would be a scaled down Christmas!"

I asked them to write down three gifts they really wanted that were reasonable. Their lists included, some books, cds, a lacrosse stick, sweatshirts, Maddie my youngest, just wanted a pair of Uggs.

And so as I set out to fulfill their wish list, determined to stick to a budget that was far less than any other year before, I felt a slight sense of relief.

Because of the limited budget there would be less gifts to purchase and finance.

Less gifts to lug in and out of cars and basements and attics. Less gifts to wrap and and worry over. Less gift to put away and stuff into already crowded drawers, and closets.

And yet as I stuck to my planned budget----the nagging old familiar feeling of--"Oh it's Christmas I better get a few more gifts!"-- kept surfacing!

Each time, I refused to give in to the "over buying". I shook off the thought and stuck to my task! But it kept resurfacing---that nagging "buy more! buy more!" chant became more perverse! The crowded over heated stores, the blaring Christmas Music and the unbelievable tantalizing bargains, began to takes its toll on me.

It circled around me--I had no where to turn--it made me dizzy and knocked me off my determined path! I thought, regroup, Starbucks would help--but while waiting on a line with many many other weary shoppers--I noticed the cute little mugs for sale and "oh hey they have gift cards!" I dashed from the line ---trying to escape the inevitable, maybe I'll circle back and find the pretzel line shorter. I was sweating and woozey and thrown into a panic. I passed another store with promises of perfect gift giving and it was too much for me. I started grabbing more of this and more of that and I made myself feel good because everything was half off, buy one get one free! I felt calm again as I waited on line with my pile of "stuff."

And then somehow, I came to my senses. I think it was the glow in the dark boxers with elfs all over it that brought me back! They were there with other glow in the dark choices, on a stand, ready for the grabbing while customers waited on line. I kept staring at them and thinking----"how silly, --how fun--who would like those--I must have those, get them! get them! get them!" As I reached to grab a few pairs, the load I was carrying slipped from my grip--and all of it hit the floor. As I looked at the pile of "how silly--how fun" perfect gift giving, I shook my head.

I picked it all up and put it back where it belonged.

Christmas morning--came and gifts were open----each gift graciously accepted and much appreciation shown. Much to my amazment, my kids didn't say a word. They were thrilled and perfectly happy with their Christmas gifts! It was then I received my Christmas gift-------I truly learned and lived---- "Less Is More!"

Lighting The Light!

By Danielle Campbell

The Montauk Lighthouse Christmas lighting was spectacular!

I have been to Montauk during December and I have to say, without hesitation, it was one of the most beautiful winter evenings I have ever experienced out there!

First of all there was amazingly no wind--which is almost unheard of.

It was comfortable, just a little chill in the air.

The sunset was spectacular.

The kids who were anxiously awaiting the big moment--held warm cups of cider in their mitten hands while they munched on oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies.

When the kids were done with their snacks,they worked off their sugar high by rolling down the Lighthouses' gentle slopes------the orange--crimson--sunlight---sparkled in their eyes.

It was peaceful, stress free--fun!

It was truly a scene you would only see in Montauk...

There really was a sense of how special this place is, the end of Long Island...

A place of ancient history and national heritage--a place where hard working men and women, have honored this site with their dedication, to preserve and continue the Lighthouse's legacy.

Just before the switch was thrown, their was a silent moment where all of us on the hill stood for just seconds gazing in awe at the Light, and then it happened. For the first time in it's history, the Montuak Lighthouse was adorned in a white sparkle--done to celebrate the season of lights, the season of love, the season of hope, that we too will find our way through the darkness.

We will feature the story in our Christmas Show, which will air all day on Christmas Day!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WNBC_(AM)

Heartbroken

Danielle Campbell

It is heartbreaking.
7 teenagers, allegedly hunt down a Hispanic immigrant in the streets of Patchogue--- an attack that led to Marcelo Lucero's horrifying death.

Marcelo, who was 38, was beaten, and then stabbed. He tried to fight back with his belt. Moments before he was walking to a friends house, to watch a movie on a Saturday night. Marcelo, who had been in our country for 16 years, struggling to make his way in the world, liked to rent movies. Most likely movies with a happy ending, that's because Marcelo truly believed in the American Dream.

Marcelo who grew up in the mountains of Ecudor, was described as a gentle, joyful man, who lived his life as a peacemaker. Marcelo was happy with the election of Barak Obama. He saw it as a moment of healing, and was hopeful it would bring an end to judgements based on the color of the skin.

Marcelo never missed a chance to call his mother, several times a week, letting her know he was ok and that he loved her. Because I am a mother, I think of Marcello's mother, so far way, so helpless, unable to change what has happened to her beautiful son. The thought of her heartbreak is unbearable. Because I am a mother, I think of the 7 mothers of the teenagers arrested. I can't imagine their pain, their grief, the feeling of helplessness they must have, how broken their hearts must be.

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66 WNBC Radio Reunion

By Danielle Campbell

20 years have gone by since 66-WNBC went off the air! I worked there during the Howard Stern, Imus days--and it was wild!

http://home.att.net/~walter.tomasheski/WNBC.htm

{WNBC REUNION October 2008}

During my almost 5 years there I had the opportunity to work with the best in the business, NYC's top Broadcasters.

It was an amazing time, Mayor Koch was in charge of the city--Eddie Murphy, Billy Crystal, Martin Short, Joe Piscopo, Jim Belushi, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus were among those on the cast for Saturday Night Live, David Letterman was super popular, Marv Albert was in his hey day, and Tom Brokaw was becoming a real big deal.

The neat part about working at WNBC is that you worked for the entire company. So, for a young journalist starting out, I got a chance to bring guests to the Green Room for Letterman, SNL... help Tom Brokaw with the new invention we were using in the newsroom called a word processor... I would tape Don Crique's Sports cast, and of course I was endlessly made fun of on the air {and off} by Don Imus and Howard Stern--every single day. If I even walked by the studio windows, it was over. I got called in, berrated, made fun of, teased, harrassed--all in "good fun"--;)

Imus would often call me into his office and put his pet tarantula on my arm--ugh--I can laugh now :)

Howard had choice names for me which I will not elaborate on. By the way we share a birthday {January 12th} along with Soupy Sales {January 8th}, so all of three of us had birthday cake!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soupy_Sales

Nevertheless, we were all a crazy, dysfunctional family!

We had a great WNBC Baseball team. We went to Yankee and Mets Games together.

I chaperoned Howard Stern's "Dial A Date" with Gary Dell'Abate--

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Dell%27Abate

He would beg me to go with him and the winning contestants to "The Cafe Versailles"-- and only if you are a real Howard Stern Fan will you remember what I am talking about.

http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2736756-versailles_new_york_city-i

Gary actually got me my start at WNBC--we were both working at an automated station on Long Island called WCTO. My job was to keep the music on overnight on the weekends. That meant not falling asleep, as they say, at the switch! I had to thread giant reels of music onto this monstrous tape deck thing--I think there were 5 thousand versions of "Star Dust." It was an evil plot because the "muzak" actually made you sleepy--and often I would awake to the sound of the ten second dead air alarm. This as I scrambled to thread more "Star Dust" versions into the dreaded machine--dreaded because often it would, during my shift,--snap the tape. Aah, more dead air. I swear that thing was possessed--

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stardust_%28song%29

Anyway that is where I met Gary. He was a nice guy, a student at Adelphi. I taught him how to keep the 24 hour "muzak" station on the air {scarey thought if you know me}.

Anyway he came into work one day all excited--"I got an internship at 66 WNBC with the deejays!" "I can hook you up if you want one as well." I said sure, but not with those DJ's--I want to intern in the newsroom! So, thanks to Gary, it happened! And we all know how his career went--God Bless him! We were the youngin's in the newsroom, Mike Breen {of Knicks Fame}--Gary, of course--Bernard McGuirk--{Imus' producer}, and then there was me!

We were all pals and had so many good times, laughs, and I think all of us we learned a lot about surviving.

We all pitched in. We all worked together. We were very proud of our product. Good times were many. Bad times happened as well: The Challenger blew up--it was inconceivable--and we cried in the newsroom, shocked by the knowledge that something could go wrong, especially on the mission with Christa McAuliffe onboard.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christa_McAuliffe

Under the guidance of News Director, Doug O'Brien {my boss} and Community Affairs Director, Anne Grassi, we were the first broadcast outlet to put together a comprehensive on air presentation dealing with the AIDS Crisis--an unknown, frightening disease that was killing people.

We met and interviewed everyone who was anyone! Mark Hamill, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Harrison Ford, {stupid me was sick that day!!}, Governor Cuomo, Mayor Koch--Jesse Jackson...

My head spins trying to put together a list--I will someday, but not now. You get the point.

And for Howard Fans--I must tell you--his portrayal of 66 WNBC is very accurate. I was one of the girls taping up the windows {you know the scene!}.

Ok, so now the point of this blog was to tell you that we all got together at Hurley's in NYC for a reunion about two weeks ago and it was wonderful! So many special people who were a big part of my life, especially Doug O'Brien who was the newsdirector at the time. With his booming pipes, he immediately said to me, "Danielle as your boss, I must say I am proud of you!!" { Doug is a broadcaster on 1010 WINS.}

{And by the way--he will always be my boss!}

http://www.1010wins.com/pages/975088.php?contentType=4&contentId=93199

And Smart, savy sexy Annie Grassi who ran the public affairs end of the station.

Judy D'Angelis {1010 WINS} and Charles McCord {IMUS}, were not there--but they too played a tremendous role in teaching by example---

They were true mentors, journalists, professionals--and I thank them all for their time, patience, knowledge, and their willingness to teach and to share.

All of us were very close and seeing each other again--some after 20 years, confirmed that!

{Me, Mike Breen, Annie Grassi}

However there is one person missing from our lives, someone we all loved dearly and as I write this I realize it is the day before she died 22 years ago--{I can't believe it}

Jane Dornacker, the crazy, loveable, traffic reporter who died when our chopper crashed for a second time.

I guess there is a reason I am writing this today--Jane was so accomplished, caring, special to all of us.

22 years ago-- Jane was a bit down, waiting to hear if she would be picked up by SNL, {that is why she had come to NY}. She missed her daughter, Naomi, her ex-husband had just died--things were a bit tough for her--and yet she always always kept her chin up, spreading her goodness where ever she went.

Before I was promoted to Assistant to the News Director, I was Jane's traffic producer. We didn't have anyone yet to fill the position so I worked the two way, filling Jane in on the traffic tie ups that we would get by calling tow companies --

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Dornacker

This particular day {October 22}--twenty two years ago tomorrow--Jane was about to begin her Traffic reporting shift. I filled Jane in on what was going on--and then I did something that is considered a taboo over the two-way. For some reason, I was compelled to say to her--because it was in my heart-- "Jane I just want to let you know I love you--I want you to know how special you are to me and to everyone here!"

She gushed over the two-way and told me she loved me as well. I went upstairs to grab a quick cup of coffee. When I came down, five minutes later, she was gone.

A few weeks later I gave the eulogy at her memorial at Saint Patrick's Cathedral. {WNBC also flew me to San Francisco to be part of a celebration of her life there with Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams--they were all great friends of hers.}

I could write a book on what happened, how it affected all of us, how it signaled the end of an era. I could tell you about the hole in my heart that never closed and how all of us at WNBC felt suffocating pain when she died.

{This is a picture of Jane. She is on the top with her band, Leila and the Snakes.}

2 years later "our" beloved 66 WNBC went off the air. It was October 7th--and like it was yesterday, I remember Alan Colmes final words that ended 66 years of broadcast history:

He said: "For the last time this is WNBC New York."

http://www.imonthe.net/66wnbc/i_remember.htm

Comments (4)

Everybody Loves Pizza!!

By Danielle Campbell

This morning I read a story on the air regarding the presidential candidates' favorite toppings on Pizza.

Apparently, according to sources, Senator Obama likes his pie topped with Pineapple and Ham-"Hawaiian Style"--the copy read--in tribute to his Hawaiian roots.

Senator John McCain, on the other hand, prefers Pepperoni and Onions.

I believe everyone loves Pizza...well, almost everyone I know. {except my very German Grandmother}

Grandma Catherine remembers Pizza from when you could only get it in a bar. {I think that is why she doesn't like it.}

When ever I say the word "pizza" Grandma always says, "I don't really care for it," and then she will add like clock work: "I wouldn't go out of my way to get THAT!" emphasis on "THAT"!

The reason may well be because back in the 50's Grandma and Gramps and their two daughters and tons of cousins and aunts and uncles along with a great grandma or two--would all spend time in Long Beach at Aunt Florie's Beach House on Michigan. {By the way I think it had two bedrooms, but a big sleeping porch.}

There would be a house full of noisy, hungry kids, and the men {Grandpa Dan, Uncle Ernie, and Crew} bless their hearts, would "volunteer" to walk to the bar and bring back some "Bar Pies".

I am sure you can guess the outcome--the guys would come back a few hours later--a bit tipsy, the pizza cold!

Anyway, I digress, the point is most everyone I know, except for my grandmother {I am sure glad she doesn't do the computer thing} LIKES and even, I dare say, LOVES Pizza!

As a reporter I know this to be true, because during my travels across this great Island of ours everyone has an opinion on What is the best type of Pizza and even more importantly WHO makes the BEST PIZZA!

Deciding on WHO makes the Best PIE here on Long Island would be akin to solving an ancient mystery concerning the pyramids or the Stone Hedge.

I am not even going to go there--

But it is fun to ask around how folks like their pizza--

I conducted a highly scientific poll here at News 12 Long Island and the results were almost insightful.

Every single person who responded to my pizza poll had a different idea on what makes an ideal topping on Pizza..

This whole pizza thing started during the morning show when I was anchoring with Doug Geed--you know the guy I sit next to everyday---

Well, we were talking about the presidential candidates preferences and he said the best way to eat pizza is the "Doug Geed Slice"!!

Initially I thought the Pizza Parlor in his neighborhood offered such a thing and I immediately wanted to have a slice named after me--Danielle From Hell Slice: Hot peppers, Onions, Garlic!

Doug corrected me, {as only Doug can do--} and then he went on to tell me what, in his opinion {and believe me when it comes to food Doug is very exact about what he likes}, is the best way to eat Pizza:

"The Doug Geed Slice": Grilled Chicken, broccoli, tomato,eggplant.

Doug told me all he has to do is call up his Pizza guy and say--can I get "MY" Pie and the guys makes it just the way he likes it! {of course because he is a big TV star} ;)

{I tried to find a pizza picture that looked like that: }

Doug said to me, have you ever had it that way?--I said "uhhhh--no--not that I remember"

He said: "Try It--You'll Like It!"

The way he said it reminded me of those sayings on the Pizza boxes--how is it that every pizza box on the planet has that little pizza chef guy saying "You Tried the Rest, Now Try the Best!"

Once again I digress----I the went on to ask our entire morning team how they like their Pizza and here are their responses:

Val, Dan and Artie in Editing all like pepperoni and Dan and Artie like meatball too.

{those editors always stick together on everything!}

Elisa said she likes it "plain"--

Erin, my producer and our sports anchor said: "Fat Free, Sugar Free"--Oh yummy--why don't you just eat the box! :)

Alex, one of our writers said "Mushroom"

Kevin, one of our directors said {ugh}--"anchovies, peppers, onions, sausage" and wrote "MMMMMM"

Carol Silva said Plain, Eggplant, Grandma's

Henry,our writer and producer on the morning show said "black olives" and asked if I would be bringing one in tomorrow ;)

Carol Cohen, another one of our writers and producer, said "mushroom and pepperoni"

Tara on the assignment desk said "chicken"

and Elizabeth Hashagen said "broccoli or Sicilian"

It was interesting poll and basically it proved my point--

EVERYONE {except my Grandma} LIKES PIZZA--but everyone has a different way they like to eat it--

So in the similarities we share--we can also at the same time exhibit our differences--

I am sure there is some book out on "What Your Pizza Toppings Say About You!"

In the meantime while I try to figure out Pizza Psychology 101--

go out and enjoy a slice---Because I just found out--October is National I Love Pizza Month! http://visualrecipes.com/reci pe-search/subcat/Pizza/

Imagine that!

http://pizzatherapy.com/pizzapics.htm

http://www.longisland.com/bestpizza/

Comments (5)

Long Island Fair

By Danielle Campbell

This weekend is the Long Island Fair held at Old Bethpage Village.

http://www.lifair.org/

I love the LI Fair at Old Bethpage because of its mission which is to keep LI History and culture alive.

Th old fashion games, petting zoo, fiddlers, mimes, jugglers and the exhibitions make the LI Fair so different from any other.

However my most favorite time is spent in Exhibition Hall--this is where Long Islanders show off their skills and talents.

Adults and children bake pies and cakes, build model airplanes, paint and draw pictures, sew clothes, grow flowers--the Dahlias alone are worth the trip!

I can spend hours in exhibition hall looking at all the amazing items Long Islanders have created.

Shag rugs of puppies, a cake that looks like a frog, beautiful paintings of Long Island's landmarks. The arts and crafts are unbelievable, beautifully knitted blankets, flower arrangements, hand crafted cuckoo clocks and bird houses.

Everything gets judged and you can win a Blue Ribbon for First Prize!

Every year I want to enter something--a pumpkin I have grown, my sunflowers--my grandmother's beach plum jelly, but I never seem to get around to it. But this year we made it ! We entered Madeline, my ten year old daughter's, apple pie! The culinary items have been judged so tomorrow morning we will head to the fair to see if we got a ribbon. How much fun would it be to say she made a blue ribbon pie!

I'll let you know!

http://www.318partners.com/pressroom.html

Huntington Humanitarian

By Danielle Campbell

Huntington humanitarian and human rights activist Steven Kim is a small voice screaming out against global oppression. Steven Kim has dedicated his life to drawing attention to Chinese complicity in ongoing North Korean oppression. Kim, was arrested in 2004 for helping persecuted North Koreans fleeing through China, find safety in South Korea. He was sentenced to five years in a Chinese prison under Article 318. He was released in September 2007 - one year early, due to sentence-reduction point credits earned for forced prison labor. Born in South Korea in 1949, Kim moved to the US in 1975 where he became naturalized, married, started a business and a family. Kim's story is epic. Kim's determination to continue the humanitarian efforts that got him imprisoned is done with a zeal and passion and impatience, that can only belong to those who have witnessed first hand human rights atrocities. So far Steven Kim has helped more than 100 North Korean refugees find freedom. He is planning a trip back to South Korea in October to meet with those who have escaped slavery, forced labor, and the sex trade. US politicians and civil rights activists who worked to free Kim from China, are now supporting this Huntington furniture salesman in his global attempt to halt China and North Korea's policies regarding human rights. One person can make a difference. For more information on Steven Kim click here:

ITALY THE C.I. WAY!!

By Danielle Campbell

The Central Islip Choir just returned from their trip to Italy.

This is the group I had the privilege and the pleasure of traveling with on assignment to Austria two years ago.

It still brings tears to my eyes when I am remember how beautiful they sounded singing in the Cathedrals and town squares.

I can only imagine how they must of sounded to the Italians--they had to be moved by their angelic voices, their faces filled with awe and wonder!!!

The Italians, I am sure, fell in love with the C.I. kids--they are so joyful, so grateful for the opportunity to experience Italy's fine art, music and the food!!!

Just looking at the photos, I can tell the Choir from Central Islip High School once again made Long Island proud with their beautiful voices and their loving hearts!

http://www.nelsondemille.net/

Nelson DeMille's New Book

By Danielle Campbell

In my hot little hands I have an advanced copy of Nelson DeMille's new book--"The Gate Keeper." It's the sequel to "The Gold Coast."

I interviewed Nelson back in July and he told me all about it. In fact, he divulged--he had just rewritten the ending that day because his publisher didn't like it. I found that funny and fascinating.

I asked him, could he write several endings and let the reader decide--he laughed politely.

The book, which is due out in October (Nelson says-the publishers are either brilliant or idiots on how they decide release dates) is sure to be a page turner!

Here is the synopsis:

"When John Sutter's aristocratic wife killed her Mafia don lover, John left America and set out in his sailboat on a three-year journey around the world, eventually settling in London. Now, ten years later, he has come home to the Gold Coast, that stretch of land on the North Shore of Long Island that once held the greatest concentration of wealth and power in America, to attend the imminent funeral of an old family servant. Taking up temporary residence in the gatehouse of Stanhope Hall, John finds himself living only a quarter of a mile from Susan who has also returned to Long Island. But Susan isn't the only person from John's past who has reemerged: Though Frank Bellarosa, infamous Mafia don and Susan's ex-lover, is long dead, his son, Anthony, is alive and well, and intent on two missions: Drawing John back into the violent world of the Bellarosa family, and exacting revenge on his father's murderer--Susan Sutter. At the same time, John and Susan's mutual attraction resurfaces and old passions begin to reignite, and John finds himself pulled deeper into a familiar web of seduction and betrayal. In The Gate House, acclaimed author Nelson DeMille brings us back to that fabled spot on the North Shore -- a place where past, present, and future collides with often unexpected results."

Nelson is an interesting guy--witty, personable, and willing to sit down and have a good chat about you name it--politics--movie deals--characters in his books--life here on Long Island.

I find his works not only entertaining but smart--and I like the novels that are located on Long Island. {I also have a crush on his fictional character John Corey.}

While reading Plum Island and especially Night Fall, I got a kick out of the factual aspects that are woven into the fictional stories.

Since I covered TWA for many months for News 12 Long Island, it was fascinating to read Night Fall, which is a fictional account of the horrendous event. (Don't tell me the ending--I am still reading it, along with six other books this summer.)

I am hoping we can get Nelson on the air sometime in October when his book is about to be launched.

Nelson told me about his fabulous launching parties. {I hope he invites the press!} Mary Clark Higgins, her daughter Carol, both fabulous writers--and other glittery literary types along with notable well knowns will toast Nelson DeMille's newest offering.

Nelson is not thrilled with the timing of "The Gate House" release date--right before a national election--but he believes by then the country will have had enough of the presidential race and will want to delve into some escapist reading! Nelson also believes McCain will pick Hillary for a running mate, and Obama will pick Bill. :)

KISMET!

I am here on vacation on Fire Island in the community of Kismet. Our house is called ALL ABOARD----ain't that the truth!

So here at ALL ABOARD, a three bedroom--one bathroom-- beach cottage---my two sisters--my sister in law--all their kids--I think it's three --my four kids--their friends--2 to 9 depending on what day it is --- are hanging out for the week--

Besides the friends--the friends of friends--my friends have come as well---

Carol Silva and Deb Gade --my dear friends from work came by with their kids--Parents of some of Rebekah's friends--came over for the day too. Grandparents stopped by ---Aunts and Uncles came --it really was quite a group. Like a good hand of Poker---It was a full house! We made tacos for about 21 tonight----It was like Taco Bell H-- E-- double hockey pucks!

Here on Fire Island--life is easy breezy--and even though it takes me a bit to wind down--I finally do--and I wonder how I will ever go back??!!--I don't wear make up--blow dry my hair--or worry about to much.

We make buckets of macaroni and cheese--and gallons of Iced Tea---we eat Ice cream at least twice a day--we swim and bike and play crazy Monopoly games--we all do the dishes together and sing the Partridge Family's Greatest Hits--we do a lot of singing--and dancing--the little kids love it--the teenagers cringe and yet you can tell they like it too. We sing to "ANNIE" -- Beatles--The Bee Gees--Johnny Cash--The Sound Of Music--and every patriotic song we know--our favorite----Your a Grand Old Flag!

We take late night walks to the ocean to see the stars--we let the dishes pile up if we want--we get sand EVERYWHERE--even when we try not to---

The kids catch snappers by the bucket fulls and then let them go--the kids are always barefoot--the play pool barefoot in the Kismet Inn--while parents sit and laugh over dinner--

The biggest problem we have here is whether the kids have enough sun screen on.

We walk to the lighthouse and ride our bikes--best of all--we just finished a one thousand piece puzzle of America's Lighthouses--which of course included the FI Lighthouse!

I was so obnoxious {they tell me} because every time I got a puzzle piece in---I would do little victory dance!!

We reconnect--we smile--we laugh--it is not luxurious--there are no spas or fancy restaurants--

However there are no cars and no concerns---

It is called Kismet and it is to me!

http://myplay.com/video-player/billy-joel/a-matter-of-trust

Last Play at Shea

Danielle Campbell

Billy Joel

To Be Shea's 'Last Play'

65fd_2 It's the last play at Shea tonight, and gosh, I wish I had made the effort to get tickets.

I don't know if it is me--because I am a Long Islander, because I have met Bill a few times--but I just love his music. He really puts on a great show and, I guess, I feel like he is one of us. A regular guy--kind of--not so far removed from his fans--sort of.

He was interviewed recently and said he fought to keep tickets for the show at Shea at 95 bucks a ticket---because he wanted his fans to have access to the show.

For me when I hear Billy Joel's songs--I go back in time to Junior High and High School.

It's like that movie 13 going on 30--

http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/13goingon30/site/index.php

I think of the basement parties, spin the bottle, getting your first, maybe even second kiss... We all use to sing to the "Piano Man,"even though we may not have understood the depth and the layers of the narrative Billy Joel was spinning in his lyrics.

I remember going to Billy's concert at Madison Square Garden and Christie Brinkley got on the stage--it was unbelievable and they lived right here on Long Island, at one point in my home town.

One time Billy came into a specialty Cheese shop I was working in downtown Huntington and he was carrying a beautiful bouquet of flowers. He told us it was for Christie. We all swooned--well, kind of. He was cute in a real way, not in a movie star-ish way. But so sweet amd sincere.

He bought some brie and I think coffee and a loaf of french bread.

Soon after they got married--I believe it was on a boat and Christie designed the invitations.

I remember feeling so happy for him, because until then he seemed so lonely.

We would see Joel in downtown bars in Huntington just hanging out--and he was friendly as ever.

I also met him several times during my career--and honestly I was always secretly thrilled! {This despite his "issues"--bad breaks--bad behavior! ---join the club!}

I think for anyone to stay somewhat sane in that high powered world of music and money is quite an accomplishment.

And of course there are his songs that without even trying, I know all the words to.

And still sometimes when his songs come on, I am surprised. I didn't know I knew all the words to "that" one!

My personal favorites--because I am a hopeless romantic--{it's embarrasing don't make fun of me}...

"She's Got a Way"

"Always A Woman To me"

"Just the Way You Are"

"For The Longest Time!"

I also love "And So It Goes"--that really makes me cry. It resonates somehow inside me.

"It's always been a matter of trust"

Another good one--where you can see Christie carrying Alexa around in the video dancing!

Check out some of his music videos online. It is so fun to watch Billy and Christie dance to "Up Town Girl" {I know I know--what a girly girl.}

http://myplay.com/video-player/billy-joel/keeping-the-faith

I most admire how Joel has uses his music to make a statement, bring attention to issues and hope to inspire change--at the least to educate the listener.

{Check at these pictures of Bill from his childhood!}

I feel anyone gifted with such talent has an obligation to do so.

And so it goes.

Despite his humaness--the bits of drama that creep into his life--I think the guy is pretty darn great and a Long Island treasure! And even though I am not going to the the Last Play At Shea--I am thrilled one of our own, our "home" team guy {thats the way I see it anyway}--is being honored!!!

{His daughter, Alexa is lovely too--and a testament to her parents.}

And remember "Only The Good Die Young!!"

They say there's a heaven for those who will wait
Some say it's better but I say it ain't
I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints
Sinners are much more fun...
And only the good die young!!! ----Danielle

Here's a link to all the Billy Joel facts you could ever want:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Joel

http://www.news12.com/LI/topstories/article?id=211111#

BALLERINA BEAUTIES!

By Danielle Campbell

This segment airs Thursday, July 10--hopefully you won't miss it.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH! http://www.news12.com/LI/topstories/article?id=214231

These little girls are truly Ballerina Beauties!

It all started when Marisol Velasquez tried to sign her daughter up for dancing lessons. Jimari, who is a triplet, is a special needs child. Her two sisters take dance class, but Jimari was turned away.

Marisol called several other studios and was told the same thing, special needs children can not be accommodated.

Distraught, Marisol asked United Cerebral Palsy Of Nassau County where her daughter, Jimari, attends classes at the Children's Learning Center, if they knew of anywhere she could bring her daughter for ballet class.

Every dance studio they called said no. And so the teachers and the physical therapists at the CLC decided they would start their own Ballet Dance Club.

12 girls signed up and they came to class with their ballet slippers. The teachers got them wands and tiaras. A student teacher even made beautiful tutu's for each of the girls.

And somehow in the midst of all that pink swirling sea of sequins--something magical happened. Little girls who didn't speak, started speaking, little girls who couldn't move their legs--began pointing their toes.

Smiles and giggling filled the room. Teachers were amazed. Parents were thrilled.

And most of all --these sweet little Ballerina Beauties got a chance to dance.

Comments (12)

PRINCIPAL WITH A PAST!

By Danielle Campbell

Today on News 12 is a story I did about Jack Abrams.

Jack Abrams a retired principal from the Huntington School district has touched many lives--

He is an inspiration, a role model --a man who has made a difference---

In fact News 12 Long Island honored Mr Abrams several years as part of our ongoing series "12 Making A Difference"

But most of all Jack Abrams is being honored for the magic he makes when he teaches our children a history lesson that captures their imaginations, and instills in them a love for learning!

Principal Abrams has spent two decades documenting the History of the Huntington School District...

He began the HERITAGE MUSEUM after saving artifacts that were about to be discarded into the school dumpsters, including the original school bell from 1857.

The bell and thousands of other artifacts from the Huntington school district's past are now forever preserved and put on display.

Because of his efforts in safeguarding yesteryear ---because of his infectious, inspiring love for history and the Huntington School district--because of his long distinguished career as a Huntington School District Teacher and Principal and because of his strong values, his love of learning-- his dedication to the true mission of teaching--which is to inspire--

The Board of Education has honored this dutiful servant, who has upheld the Huntington School District's Mandate and it's motto--" A tradition of Excellence"--with naming one of the district's elementary School's after him.

It is an unprecedented move, never been done for someone who is still alive.

But the teachers who rallied around the idea--wanted to do this now--while Jack Abrams, who has served the district for 53 years--is still alive.

Truly, like the Huntington Lighthouse that Serves as a reminder of the district's mission----countless students have benefited from Jack Abrams lighting their way!

The museum has on display other items including a Geiger counter from the 60's principals were suppose to use in case of nuclear attack--a 1900's foot powered water fountain--gym bloomers from 1900's---trophy's, science projects, sports banners spanning the decades---kidney shaped ash trays from teacher lounges in the 60's and 70's...

He also started a program which teaches the children of the district the importance of preserving the past.

A forgotten school bell and a few boxes full of dusty historic documents, inspired the retired school Principal not only to preserve the past...but also to pass it on ..Jack Abrams has dedicated his golden years to archiving the history of the Huntington School district.

He began the Heritage Museum and it is there kids learn all about yesteryear...

The Heritage museum is located at Huntington High School.

For any Long Islander, it is truly a walk down memory lane.

If you get a chance to go, I hope you are lucky enough to meet Jack Abrams.

http://www.hufsd.edu/community/heritage

Museum Curator

http://www.kearsarge.navy.mil/default.aspx

THE USS KEARSARGE

By Danielle Campbell

It's the 4th of July and it's a time to celebrate our country's independence!

I got a good dose of patriotism this past Memorial Day, while I was onboard the USS Kearsarge. Cameraman Brandon, my intern Maria, and I, flew in a "Helo" and landed onboard the USS Kearsarge.

That was amazing, flying out to the ocean and then landing on a Navy amphibious assault ship. Wow!

We were invited onboard for Fleet Week and to do a story about 35 of Freeport's finest Junior ROTC. The cadets, who are 13 through 16 years old, and spent 4 days sailing onboard the USS Kearsarge.

While onboard the students got a serious first hand experience of what life at sea would be like!

The cadets were onboard the flight deck of the Kearsarge, and manned the rails as they sailed into NY Harbor for Fleet Week 2008!

The cadets also got a chance to stand on the flight deck of the Kearsarge, and man the rails as they sailed into NY Harbor for Fleet Week 2008.

Major Donald Moore, Freeport's Jr ROTC's commander, was beaming with pride as the cadets stood at attention with the Kearsarge sailors.

I was overwhelmed by the dedication, commitment and patriotism of the Freeport students, and of the women and men onboard the USS Kearsarge.

The student's from Freeport not only set sail on an amazing journey--they also set an example for all of us!

http://www.pcli.org/index.asp

TELL IT LIKE IT WAS

By Danielle Campbell

Each June the LI Press Club and News 12 LI honor Hank Logeman by awarding an aspiring LI high school journalist with a scholarship.

{The Hank Logeman/News 12 High School Journalism Award went to James Brierton of Smithtown High School East. The $2,000 award, funded by New 12 Long Island, honors Logeman, a longtime journalist and UPI reporter who worked out of the Mineola press room.}

Hank, who lived and worked on LI for most of his life, was an accomplished correspondent from another era.

Hank graduated from the University of Michigan in 1942 with a Bachelor degree in Economics In 1947 Hank moved to NYC and took a job with the Long Island Press and the L.I. Star Journal as a reporter.

1951 Hank joined UPI, United Press International, retiring in 1991 at the age of 71.

Hank covered almost every major story of his era.

He interviewed The Beatles, General MacArthur, JF Kennedy, Liz Taylor, Marilyn Monroe.

He covered murders and scandals to numerous to count-- Many back in the day when reporters--all male back then, simply walked into the murder scene along with the cops and detectives.

He covered no less than 10 plane crashes--including Avianca where at the age of 70--he walked several miles from the town of Oyster Bay--all the way to Cove Neck where the crash site was located.

I remember giving a Hank ride back to town after we had spent close to 12 hours at the gruesome crash site.

Hank had a photographic memory--and was one of the most accurate reporters working--He was a real stickler for details--And everyday in the Press Room Hank was heard saying in his very distinctive voice--"EXACTLY how do you spell that?" He was a real whiz at details ---evident at a very young age.

He loved antique cars--- and Hank told us how at the age of five he could stand on the street corner and as the cars went by he could name every make and model--an ability he kept for as long as we all knew him.

He NEVER hesitated to help a young reporter.

In fact he patiently explained to me what an arraignment was when I was sent out on my first big murder case in Riverhead for 1010 WINS.

He had infinite patience and wisdom--He was a role model, not only as a journalist, but as a person.

He knew the courts and the criminal justice system like the back of his hand.

His writing was not only accurate --but beautiful.

I and many other reporters had the honor to work side by side with this great man.

Hank--was maybe 5 foot 2---always with folded paper under his arm--a cigarette draped from his mouth--and a small stub of a pencil ready to go.

How lucky I considered myself--to have worked with a true journalist--a man of integrity--wisdom and humor.

We all worked together in the Mineola Press Room--it was set up in the courthouse and it was where all of LI's important journalists worked--we were close to the action, the police and the politicians. {In those days Suffolk wasn't considered that news worthy}

One time I remember Hank asking me information about a story--I knew then he considered me a trusted journalist! Whenever that happened--it was a nerve-wracking honor!

Hank and his wife Laura raised their 3 children in Floral Park-- Near the end of his life Hank had been babysitting for his 3 grandchildren --they were by his side when he died.

Despite his height--Hank was one of the tallest people I ever had the pleasure of working with and knowing.

Hank taught us tenaciousness--accuracy --unbending integrity to convey the truth--and above all-he taught us to keep our sense of humor so that we could deal with the tragedies of life that bombarded us on a daily basis--- I personally thank Hank Logeman for all these gifts--

I asked Doug Geed, who also knew Hank to write his thoughts down:

Hank Logeman WAS the Mineola Press Room. It's where I and countless other young reporters learned our craft. Despite four years of college and a Bachelor of Journalism degree, I consider "Professor Logeman" one of my greatest teachers. One of my favorite pastimes would be discussing sports with Hank over a few beers. The memories of his beloved Detroit Tigers and so many other sports tales could entertain for hours. I just regret never following through on my oft-stated comment to Hank that I'd write a book with him about all the stories he had covered and people he had met. It's amazing how much territory he managed to cover by never once driving above 35 miles an hour. But his driving habits matched his journalistic skills: take your time, get it right. An outstanding journalist and a true gentleman, I've never met anyone who didn't love Hank Logeman. I'm just one person on a very long list. Thanks, Hank.

Ellen Mitchell of WCBS News radio 880, worked with Hank for over 20 years: "In looking back at the years I spent reporting out of the Mineola press room, my memories of Hank Logeman are among my most cherished. Our desks were adjacent. We sat four feet from each other on an almost daily basis and I cannot recall ever having a disagreement with the man. We became fast friends on the day we met and remained so until the day Hank died. Hank was tiny in physical stature and yet he stood heads above the rest of us when it came to journalistic integrity, writing ability and an aptitude for cutting to the heart of the story quickly and accurately.

He was a reporter of the old school, devoted to his craft, skilled as a communicator, tenacious about uncovering every detail and insistent that what he reported on be honest and unadorned. Hank never wrote to please an editor interested only in ratings or glaring headlines. Many of you are familiar with the Hank legends.

The man kept sheets of paper for note taking folded over so that they fit into his breast pocket. He was a formal person and sports jackets with pockets were his style. He wrote his notes in columns, between the folds of the paper and he did so with pencil stubs. I think Hank purposely ground down new pencils so as never to have one that was more than 4 inches long. When all the reporters in the room were on a conference call with the police, which was something we used to do regularly, Hank could drive us all to distraction with his insistence on minute detail. I can still hear him asking, "Officer Kohler…how do you spell that name Smith?" The man was blessed with a charming sense of humor and each day he arrived with a new joke. Hank was a raconteur and he had this incredible wealth of rich stories to share. He had been a reporter longer than any of us and as the UPI man at Kennedy Airport he had seen it all. He had personally interviewed such bigger than life luminaries as Marilyn Monroe, the Beatles and Richard Nixon.

He never went out of his way to tell people about any of this but then he'd casually mention a name as part of one of his stories…such as " I was standing on the tarmac with Paul McCartney" or " I was in the VIP lounge interviewing Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton." Time and again I suggested to Hank that he write a book about his memories. He'd shake his head and I knew he'd never do it. He was a very humble guy. Hank never lived to see the wireless, digitalized, Blackberried, instantaneous style of news reporting of today. But, he was always open to change and he would have mastered all the latest technology---maybe not easily, but he would have done it. Still, sometimes it's good to recall a man who wrote with a pencil stub on long sheets of paper, never missed a detail and never dramatized his stories. Life as it happened was drama enough and Hank told it like it was."

Thanks for letting me share our memories of a beloved LI Journalist--Maybe one day we will all write the book and call it "Tell It Like It Was!"

dc

http://www.fpvillage.org/

Floral Park Parade

FLORAL PARK CELEBRATES 100 YEARS
WITH GRAND PARADE

Floral Park is where I spent the first five years of my life --

We lived on Violet Ave. in a two family house. I have very few memories except the I think my room was blue, we had a towering oak tree in front that I use to hide behind and try to hug.

I use to ride my trike up and down the sidewalk, and there was a vast backyard (to a five year old) where we would scrounge around in the dirt and weeds.

My sisters and I alway went to Grandma's who lived on Cherry Street--{Gram made me the best BLT's!}and my Dad would always bring a big sack of laundry.

I I remember a kid knocking me off my bike at nursery school which was down the block and I remember getting into the biggest trouble of my life--It was my first and only brush with the law!

My sister Kathryn and I ,would scamper down the block, without anyone knowing {5 and 4 years old} and head right to the "corner store" Then with stealth like precision--I would lift my sister up so she could grab two candy bars and away we went.

I suppose we did this enough times to try the patience of the owner---because I have this memory of being dragged home by my hair by my poor mother, {who was 21!} screaming at us for something that sounded like "What would make you to walk down to the corner store!!!??????

{Candy I said--which resulted in another tug on the hair}

"Why would you take candy from the corner store??

{ Because we don't have any!!--"OUCH!"}

Stealing Candy!!?? I had no idea we were doing something wrong--my mother kept saying this weird word "illegal" and of course I got the brunt of it because --well--I was the one who lifted up my sister and instructed her on which chocolate bar to grab! The way my mother carried on I thought for sure I was going to be locked away forever--I remember crying in my blue room and using my tears to paint a picture on the wall because my mother left me in there for days!!! :)

I loved living in Floral Park and down the block from Gram and Gramps--{come to think of it I spent alot of time--painting pictures with my tears --standing in the corner ---in trouble there as well-}

We eventually moved--{I think it was right after they posted my picture in the Candy Store}---out to the country--Huntington, Suffolk County--{there were cows and corn there} and we were moving into a big old house with what seemed like acres of land and I was going to go to school.

Floral Park is a big part of my life because my Gram still lives there.

She is one of the most amazing women in my life--and when she asked me if I wanted to come Floral Park's 100 Year Parade Celebration of course I said YES!

The Parade captured Floral Park's character and characters! :) They even showed off their new garbarge trucks --{Gram said "Oh look there are our new garbarge trucks!"} { My favorite picture is the one with the guys behind the horse!}

I was telling my kids all about living in Floral Park {they were really excited as you can imagine} and about the Fourth Of July Parades and how the firemen would lets us ride on the trucks and how during one parade my friend--{gram will remember her name}--- let go of her red balloon.

As we watched it disappear--she began to cry--I promptly gave her my blue balloon--she smiled--and then let go of it as well!!!

{that memory still makes me crazy--why would she do that?? :)

I guess I realize I remember alot more than I thought--most of all the hugs--the kisses and the love that surrounded me--lucky me!!

Watch Lourdes Show THIS Weekend

p>Oh Lourdes! For Crying Out Loud!

I am in my office crying--our Lourdes show at 7pm had some what we call in the business--technical difficulties----

My editor Alvin Rueda worked so hard --he was so amazing --but sometimes, despite doing everything right----somethings may go wrong. {especially mechanical things! ugh!!!}

Alvin was so calm, so peaceful, together--I fell apart!

Like Steven McDonald says--"if you want to see God's sense of humor----Make plans!"

{Right now ---God is not doing a good job at making me laugh!}

Despite that--our half hour show will run all weekend long--every other hour or so---

So Please Please Please--if you can take a look--

It will also eventually be posted on our website as well---

I just want to thank Steven McDonald who came in today to thank the staff for all the hard work that went into getting the Lourdes story on the air.

My dear friend and colleague Marc Racenstein, another wonderful editor at News 12, reminded me how amazing it was that Steven McDonald came to News 12 despite all of his ongoing technical difficulties--that he experiences with every breath!!

When he said that it really made me think--

During his visit to the news room--Steven gave us his precious time with such graciousness--and sincerely expressed his heartfelt thanks.

Once again, despite his struggles--unbelievably ---he gave back to others.

So here I am--like a jerk---crying in my office over--"technical difficulties"!

Didn't I learn anything in Lourdes?

In fact I wrote these very words--

"Faith is believing in what you don't see--"

I have to believe and leave it in God's hands!

Thanks again for supporting this series--

"For supporting stories that not only change our lives--but change our hearts."

dc

P.S

Please Scroll down there are several postings back that are all about the Lourdes Trip and lots of pictures too!

{There are at least 50 or so people in the news room that play some kind of role in getting the segments on the air--writers/producers/editors/copy editors/directors/camera operators/graphic designers/Adam who did my hair/folks who fed us while we sat for hours in the "Lourdes" edit bay/people who shared their lunch/their encouragement/their candy kisses--{thanks Virginia!!} their smiles and their "Lourdy, Lourdy" jokes!"}