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January 2010 Stories
Proposal in works by R2 for 10th anniversary 9-11 event
The NPPA received $75,000 from the Authors Coalition of America. Region 2 will be presenting a proposal to receive some of this money to organize and hold a special press event to be held on September 10, 2011, one day before the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 attack on the World Trade Center.

The amount of money needed, while not specified, should cover the costs of renting space for the event(s), transportation for speakers, technical equipment to run projection and visual presentations, and other expenses related to putting on what will be a unique event for both journalists and students.

We have received supportive comments from members of the 9-11 Memorial Commission. We have also received verbal approvals from the City and New York City Inc. We believe they will back this type of event to be held at or near the site of the new memorial.

We believe that NPPA will back this event to be spearheaded by the regional leadership and with support from local journalism organizations. The ACA money is meant to encourage educational endeavors and we believe that this idea can be one of the most historical events for NPPA in years and will attract many to hear speakers who experienced 9-11 first hand. More on this to come this issue.

Resolutions before the new board must include boost in region funds
For the past six months, regional funding to each region was reduced to a measly $250, hardly enough money to conduct any kind of event – especially in New York. This is why Region 2’s Chairman, Todd Maisel, has introduced a resolution to bring funding back to pre-2008 levels so that programs can continue to run without interruption.

This is one of several resolutions introduced by Todd Maisel in light of changes in cash flow at the organization and because of the need of regional chairs to be able to be the foot soldiers of this organization to properly represent the visual journalists of this country. The other resolutions introduced
by Maisel include a choice of two options for the new NPPA Press Identification card. We believe that the card is an excellent addition to whatever people are using and it gives the wearer a usuable identification to show officials in municipalities that do not issue their own credentials. (The New York City Police Department will allow press cards in NYC to expire and will not reissue until July because of
legal complications).

We believe that the cards should be given to members either free, which is in the first part of the resolution, or, be renewed with renewal of membership by using a stick on label that would cost the organization almost nothing. When the card wears out, the bearer would simply purchase another card at the price of making it plus shipping.

This resolution was introduced in response to some member complaints that they don’t get enough for their membership fee, which rose only a few years earlier and that they should not have to pay for a membership card, which some believe amounts to an additional tax.

A final resolution introduced by Maisel representing Region 2, simply requires that all election information, including all demographic informationof where the votes came from and how many votes were cast in total, be preserved. This year, all that information was thrown away and will not be available for study either by the organization to see where the voters were interested or not interested, or by the candidates themselves to study where interest actually was greatest or least. We believe members and the leadership should have access to this historical data to learn from it and to preserve the history of this great organization – while preserving the identities of the individual voters.

Update on parking permits, press cards
It seems that the lawsuit by bloggers seeking press cards has now stretched into January and may go a bit further if the city and blogger attorney Norman Seigel can’t make a deal.

Unfortunately, it also means that our efforts to get vehicle identification for legitimate press photographers might also be in limbo as this issue winds its way through the courts. That doesn’t mean we have been idle. Members of the NYPPA parking permit committee met with city officials back in September and as a result, have come up with a set of criteria and guidelines for issuing parking permits to those who really need it. These new guidelines have been submitted to the city for approval and we are awaiting word from the city whether there are any problems that might arise from our presentation. The NYPPA is working with both NYPPA attorney Jason Criss and now have the benefit one of the newest members, Robert Roth Esq., who has lent his expertise in negotiating and formulating agreements to our cause.

Like everything else that has to go to the city, this will take time and we will continue to push for answers and work hard to make an agreement we can all live with. In the meantime, be careful where you park and pay if you need to pay for parking. Some members are still reporting that Parking Violations is dismissing tickets for those who prove they were on the job. But don’t count on this all the time. We urge caution
in parking.

David Pokress' wife, Hope, passed away suddenly
We mourn the loss of photographer David Pokress’ wife Hope, who died this past month. David was a photographer for Newsday for many years, and currently freelances for the New York Daily News among other work he has been doing. We mourn David’s great loss.

Upheaval at Daily News as photo Editor replaced by former Postie
lipackAfter 39 years at the New York Daily News, well respected Photography Director Michael Lipack
was reassigned to a new position at the Daily News and will be replaced by former Post Photo Editor Gretchen Viehmann.

While a lot has been written on this issue in various blogs, we can honestly say that Lipack laid
the foundation of what is one of the great, award winning photo staffs in this country. Lipack will be reassigned to a marketing director position when he returns to work after being laid up because of illness. Viehmann is scheduled to take the reins of the news photo department as of January 18.

New advertising section on R2 is free for members
For the first time in NPPA history, NPPA members seeking to sell photo gear or anything related to their work, may now list their 15 word ad for NO CHARGE on this website that goes out to more than 900 photographers in New York, New Jersey, Canada and around the world.

This special page created in December includes ads from our members. Non-members will pay $15 per month for the listing, with checks made out to the National Press Photographers Association. The Money raised from this program will go towards programs for photographers that we hold throughout the year.

People GIVING STUFF AWAY, may put in their recycling ad on this site for FREE, regardless of membership. We encourage people to share their old gear with those who might need it.
To go to the page click here.

For more information, or to send your ad, email Todd Maisel at toddphoto@aol.com

Election aftermath: Bruised, but hardly done says Region 2 Chairman
Dear members,

It was with great disappointment that I was forced by a no-win situation to withdraw from the campaign for one of six national director seats. I spared no effort in this goal, and that is probably why it failed.

Because there were no specific guidelines for running for this new national office, I made bad assumptions about what I could and could not do. In September, before the National website was accepting letters from candidates, I posted a story telling people I was running for office and that I would also endorse another candidate as well. I offered others the opportunity to put information up and I also put a link to the NPPA site so that people can see those other candidates. Funny, nobody said this was wrong at the time.
My real error was assuming that I could endorse myself. Despite winning in an unopposed election R2 Chair, and my AD endorsing me, I should not have assumed that I could do this. It was interpreted as using NPPA “postage” for personal gain. My efforts to correct this error in judgment, including a retraction both on the web and in a blast failed to placate. In addition, the NPPA and the governance committee took the opportunity to blast my error to the entire membership (I only communicated this to R2) and indicate that
I had retracted the statements. Again, this was not enough. Several candidates and at least one regional chair signed on to a complaint and sought to investigate the matter further with the judicial committee.
I was advised that I faced removal by the board if I should win, or, this mess could get a lot worse and become a major embarrassment for the organization.

At this point, it was time to wrap it up for the best of this organization.

I will remain as regional chair and promise to run again in November for the open board seat. It is my understanding and my informal polling that tells me that I not only won the election (those results were destroyed), but I won a significant number of votes.

So I ask those who are my friends and those who know me to understand what has happened and perhaps come back and vote for me again or, at least vote for one of the other very worthy candidates who volunteer their time for our profession.

This is not a campaign letter, but rather me asking you to support this organization by being involved and to not allow yourself to be disenfranchised by not voting. Only about 500 members of more than 7500 voted in this last election and we don’t even know where they came from as those results have been destroyed. I have sponsored a resolution to correct this issue. Your vote will assure that you will be represented and you will get your money’s worth from this organization that will benefit us all. In the meantime, I will fight vigorously for you as chairman of Region 2. Have a happy new year!

Todd Maisel, R2 Chairman

Calendar Items
J&R Music and Computer World holds photo expo, events
 The entire block on Park Row is on sale in a huge after holiday sale that NPPA members can benefit. Don’t miss out on the great deals that our friends at J&R will give you. Our Friends at J&R Music and Computer World have attracted some great talents with both musicians giving autographs at their Park Row headquarters, and entertainers giving it their all in City Hall Park – and those with press plates can park right next to City Hall. And there are still a few more appearances coming up for photographers to make photos and sales. See the site www.JR.com

UPDATE ON CORPORATE DISCOUNTS: Abe Brown and Shirley are the contacts. You may email with products for discount at amb@jr.com or call J&R and ask for Abe Brown. Shirley is at 212 238-9000, ext 2420.  NPPA members should call us before coming down. DON’T FORGET, NPPA members get up to 5% off any item that is not on sale. Ask the corporate department for your discount today!

New York Press Club meeting with PO Commissioner Kelly
As friction between the office of DCPI and members of the media continue to make news, the decisions concerning press cards and vehicle identification cause controversy, photographers are urged to attend this next meeting of the New York Press Club where they will address Commissioner Ray Kelly for an "on-the-record" evening of Q&A. The event will occur on Tuesday, January 19th, 7:45 p.m - 9:00 p.m. at New York Press Club Penthouse, 330 W 42 Street (between 8th and 9th). The Moderator will be David Diaz, distinguished lecturer in political science, media and communication arts, CUNY. Light refreshments will be served.

New York Press Club members admitted without charge. (RSVP required. Please click link, below).
Non-members, $10.

MEMBERS: please click here to let us know you plan to attend.
NON-MEMBERS: please RSVP here ($10 via PayPal or credit card): http://www.newyorkpressclub.org/events.html#kelly

Northern Short Course comes to New Brunswick in March
This year’s Northern Short Course will be at the Hyatt in New Brunswick, New Jersey from March 11-13. We’re offering car pooling from New York and New Jersey. Please attend as this is your organization, too.  See northernshortcourse.org for details. Contact us at toddphoto@aol.com

Contests
World Press 2010 - Deadline January 14
 We would like to invite you to participate in the 2010 World Press Photo Contest and to enter the contest online by uploading your images.

Before requesting your user name and password below, here are some tips for using the web entry site:
* The web entry site works like an account where you can log in and out as often as you wish. You have a total of six weeks for your submission. Start uploading your entry as soon as possible.
* An image may only be entered once, either as a single or as part of a story.
* A story/portfolio must contain a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 12 images.
* Images can be uploaded as .jpg or as zip files. To upload a story or more than one single image, you can compress up to 12 images in a zip file.
* All images must meet the following specifications:    - Images must be at least 3,000 pixels in length.    - Each image must be saved as a separate JPEG with the highest quality setting.    - An embedded ICC profile is required. AdobeRGB or RGB is recommended for color images, Gamma 2.2 for black and white. No CMYK.
* The content of the image must not be altered. Only retouching which conforms to currently accepted standards in the industry is allowed. The jury is the ultimate arbiter of these standards and may at its discretion request the original, unretouched file as recorded by the camera or an untoned scan of the negative or slide.
* Include the required metadata (creation date, place, country and caption/description) beforehand as it will be copied automatically from your image files.
* After having uploaded your images, you may still edit the order of the images within a story and change or add metadata if necessary.

The deadline for submitting your entry is 14 January 2010, 23.59 Central European Time. Click the link below to request your user name and password to submit your entry the 2010 World Press Photo Contest online. Note that the deadline for requesting your login is 8 January 2010, 23.59 Central European Time.
https://submit.worldpressphoto.nl/ui/public/SubscribeByMail.aspx?psid=00016707

Your user name and password will be send to you in two separate e- mails.
Please read the password e-mail carefully as it contains useful information as well as the link to access the web entry site.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at contest@worldpressphoto.org

POYI - Deadline is January 15
The 67th annual Pictures of the Year International competition is now open for online registration and entry at www.poyi.org. Entering POYI is an efficient step-by-step process.  This year, we've added a second server to dramatically increase entry upload speed.  Also, our new entry verification system automatically checks your submissions for any conflicts or errors. The deadline for entries to be received online is Friday, January 15. If you have questions or need clarification, we have several helpful downloads to assist you.  These may be found on our Web site at www.poyi.org under the heading "Contest Entry Help."   If you need further assistance, you are welcome to please email us at info@poyi.org and we will be happy to for help. Pictures of the Year International welcomes you to the 67th annual photojournalism competition - the world's oldest and most prestigious.  We look forward to your participation.

NYPPA contest - Deadline January 24
The 2010 New York Press Photographers Association 75th Annual Contest and Exhibition Rules have been announced.

All entries must have been taken between January 1 and December 31, 2009, exclusively by members of the New York Press Photographers Association, Inc. All dues owed, including all past and 2010 dues
($85 or $42.50 for Life Members) must be paid. Entries, with all forms completed for entry fees and dues owed, must be delivered to the Association offices (or website via FTP) by January 24, 2010 at Midnight. Payment may be by check made out to New York Press Photographers Association, Inc. or online via
Pay Pal (there will be an additional service fee).

Entries not hand delivered or via FTP should be sent with a service that provides proof of delivery to the entrant. Go to www.nyppa.org for more information.

NPPA's 2010 Best Of Photojournalism Contest – Deadline January 29
The entry period is now open for NPPA's 2010 Best Of Photojournalism contest, and the rules and categories and FTP instructions have now been posted online click here and the Call For Entries has gone out to the world of visual journalism. All still and television photographers, photography editors, Web editors, and television editors are invited to take part in the Best Of Photojournalism competition, the world's second-largest photography contest. And a new category has been added this year called "Returning Veterans, Coming Home," sponsored by the Edom Foundation for Social Justice Through Photojournalism Education. Read More

Northern Short Course Photo Contest - Deadline Feb. 5
The Board of the Northern Short Course in Photojournalism is pleased to announce its annual Photo Contest for National Press Photographers Association members in Regions One, Two and Three.
Entries are being accepted as of January 6, 2010.  The contest deadline is February 5, 2010.
New contest rules, including important category definitions, can be found on the NSC web site: www.northernshortcourse.com.

New this year, the contest will be judged in Washington, DC, at American University on February 20, 2010. Judging will be open to the public.  Contest Chair Larry Levin and NSC Board members will organize and administer the judging. Exact times and room location will be posted on the NSC web site nearer to the judging.

Exhibits
Runaway Moon is solo exhibit at SB Design Gallery
The first solo exhibition of 2010 at SB Design Gallery will be showing from this January 16, until February 10 with caligraphy by Minette Lee Mangahas.  The exhibit entitled, "Runaway Moon." By Minette Lee Mangahas will have an opening reception on January 16, from 5 to 8 pm SB Design Gallery,
125 East 4th Street. For more information, go to www.sbdgallery.org
December Stories
Elections this month
Please vote in the National Election being held throughout the month of November.
Do not disenfranchise yourself by not voting for the candidates that you believe will do the job you expect. PLEASE – go to the www.nppa.org website and vote for two candidates. It is easy to do and you will be making your voice heard.

The candidates for NPPA National Elected Board seats are as follows. Jeff Gritchen, Danny Gawlowski, Michael P. King, Merry Murray, Jim Michalowski, Smiley Poole, Todd Maisel, Jack Zibluk,
Gerald S. Williams, Mike Borland, Greg Smith.

Election Clarrification
“I, Todd Maisel, thought I had the inherent power to endorse as R2 Director and this is not the case and will not occur again on this blast or the R2 website.”

Has your laptop, PDA or cameras been seized, searched?
The NPPA is considering getting involved in a lawsuit related to the ability of the government to search laptops and cameras at airports and at the border. The U.S. government takes the position that it may search through and copy the contents of electronic devices such as laptops, cell phones and cameras, as part of their searches of individuals entering or exiting the U.S., without any suspicion that the person searched has engaged in wrongdoing.

The ACLU has asked the NPPA for its help in order to determine the impact of this policy on our members. If we find that it has impacted on any of you and you are willing NPPA would become a plaintiff in the case against this policy. Therefore we would appreciate responses to the following questions:

1. Have you ever had your laptop, cell phone or camera searched when entering or exiting the U.S.?
2. Have you ever had the contents of your laptop, cell phone or camera copied when entering or
exiting the U.S.?
3. Have you ever had your laptop, cell phone or camera seized when entering or exiting the U.S.?
4. If you are employed by someone else, does your employer have a policy about traveling internationally with laptops, cell phones or cameras?
5. Do you avoid carrying confidential business or personal information on your laptop, cell phone or camera due to the “suspicionless” search policy?

Go to the www.nppa.org and provide what answers you are able. You may also send them to R2 at toddphoto@aol.com. We will forward them if you request it.

We’ve heard at least one instance where a photographer had his laptop seized and held for several days. At the very least, this is invasive and inconvenient for the photographer who relies on his gear.
Go on the record and help us with this case.

New advertising section on R2 is free for members
NPPA members seeking to sell photo gear or anything related to their work, may now list their 15 word ad for NO CHARGE on this website that goes out to more than 900 photographers in New York, New Jersey, Canada and around the world. A new section will be created starting with theDecember issue that will include ads from our members. Non-members will pay $15 per month for the listing, with checks made out to the National Press Photographers Association. The money raised from this program will go towards programs for photographers that we hold throughout the year. People GIVING STUFF AWAY, may put in their recycling ad on this site for FREE, regardless of membership. We encourage people to share their old gear with those who might need it. To visit the classifieds page click here.

For more information, or to send your ad, email Todd Maisel at toddphoto@aol.com

Mayor's film office changes the rule on giving out info on film shoot locations
By Celeste Katz – Reprinted from the NY Daily news
Wednesday, November 11th 2009

The guy with the flash thinks this policy's trash. The public will no longer be allowed to leaf through the weekly stack of city film permits - a longtime treasure-trove for celebrity-hunting paparazzi - at the Mayor's Office of Film, Theater and Broadcasting. Instead, starting Dec. 1, anyone who wants to see the permits, which detail when and where movies, TV shows and ads are being made, must request them in writing under the Freedom of Information Law.

Mayoral spokesman Andrew Brent said the film office is committed to turning over requested documents within a week. Christopher Peterson, a photog with Buzz Foto agency, fretted that by the time the agency gives up the info the lights, cameras and action may be long gone.

"If you shut down Fifth Ave. so Angelina Jolie can [film a movie], you're not entitled to think you can just sort of cloak it and keep it from people," he said.

The 15-year-old policy of letting the public leaf through the permit pile is being changed in part because of staffing issues, office space constraints and complaints about copies being pocketed - not complaints from the stars, officials said.

The permits "were essential to a number of people making a living," said freelancer Dennis Van Tine, who has photographed news and celebs in the city for 13 years. It's not just the paparazzi who call the change questionable. "Access to that information should be as easily and readily available as possible," said AP Senior Managing Editor Michael Oreskes.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/11/11/2009-1111_wanna_see_stars_film_on_street_write_us_a_letter__wait_city_sez.html#ixzz0WYjBXeOD

Syracuse University turns out for Navigating the Downturn
The Region 2, "Navigating the Downturn", held at Syracuse University helped both photographers and aspiring photographers that they must keep up to date with all new media and versatile in business.

A panel of three leaders in our industry spoke about diversification of our industry and how photographers must change what they do to keep up with the economy. They included Seth Gitner, Mark Ovaska and Nancy Ford. The meeting was moderated by Todd Maisel, Region 2 Director. Much thanks go to our hosts at Syracuse University for hosting a great event.

The event was attended by 67 students, faculty, journalists and other interested visitors.

parking  
parking
     
parking   parking

We’ll take the sox off your feet for a worthy cause
Dear Friends & Family,
My mom and I have decided that this holiday season, we are going to donate a pair of socks to a charity for homeless people, Hannah’s Socks. It was made by a 9 year old girl (just like me!) named Hannah. I want to give the homeless something as simple as socks to know that some people do care about them.

Hannah’s Socks was made on Thanksgiving Day 2004. Hannah and Her mom were helping give food to a shelter when Hannah saw a man with no socks and ripped up shoes. She pulled her sneakers off and gave him her socks. The day after that Hannah and her mom brought 100 pairs of socks to the shelter. Therefore, Hannah’s Socks was developed.

A sock of yours can mean a lot to a homeless person. So you can either go online to hannahssocks.org by December 1st that would be great. Thank you and happy holidays! – Alana Maisel

NPPA booth at PhotoPlus was a hit
NPPA Executive Director Jim Straight was joined by Region 2 Director Todd Maisel and his AD Mark Dye at the booth at this year’s PhotoPlus Expo at the Javits Center this past month. The NPPA was able to get out its message of advocacy, education and fraternity to fellow photographers.  We also met many new members who joined at the show. 



Celebrity photographer A.J. Sokalner dies while covering Lady GaGa event
Celebrity photographer and friend to many died suddenly while covering an event in New York.
He will be missed by many for his kind personality and great frienships. Read full article on PDN.
 
Calendar Items
J&R Music and Computer World holds photo expo, events
jr_truck

The entire block on Park Row is on sale in a celebration of this great event – the Great J&R Photo Expo. Meet the reps of your favorite manufacturers. Enter to win prizes. Here are a few unbelievable examples;

Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital SLR Kit Reg 569.99- NOW $479.88 SAVE $80
Panasonic DMC-ZR1   Reg 279.99  Now 229.99 Save $50
Nikon Coolpix S220 Only $129.95 - PLUS BONUS $15 J&R GIFT CARD
Check out today's Daily News, Post , Times & amNY for more super specials.

Our Friends at J&R Music and Computer World have attracted some great talents with both musicians giving autographs at their Park Row headquarters, and entertainers giving it their all in City Hall Park.

There are still a few more appearances coming up for photographers to make photos and sales.
See the site www.JR.com

UPDATE ON CORPORATE DISCOUNTS: Abe Brown and Shirley are the contacts.
You may email with products for discount at amb@jr.com or call J&R and ask for Abe Brown.
Shirley is at 212 238-9000, ext 2420.  NPPA members should call us before coming down.
DON’T FORGET, NPPA members get up to 5% off any item that is not on sale. Ask the corporate department for your discount today!

Featured J&R artists:
Carmine Appice will be performing and signing autographs on Thursday Nov. 19 at 6 p.m.
Ryan Leslie will give a brief performance and sign autographs on Dec. 6 at 12:30 p.m.
Melba Moore will be performing and signing autographs on 11-20 at 6 p.m.
Singer Carly Simon will be signing autographs on Nov. 24 at 6 p.m.

Get your pictures of these stars

Exhibits
Panoramic Views by Jack McCoy
NPPA member Jack McCoy invites all photographers to his photo exhibit enetitled, “Panoramic Travels,” for an opening reception on Saturday Dec. 5 1-5 p.m. at thje Rockville Centre Library, 221 North Village RVC. The exhibit featuring incredible travel photography in panorama, will run from Dec.1 to the 30th.
For more information or to see some of Jack’s work, go to www.jackmccoyphotography.com

Dolls Head at Soho Photo Gallery
Photographer Frances Roberts work, "Doll's Head" will be shown at the Soho Photo Gallery's Fifth Annual Alternative Processes Competition Show until Nov. 28. (The picture was shot with a pinhole camera and transferred onto a porcelain tile.) Hours for the gallery are: Wednesday thru Sunday 1-6 p.m.
The gallery is located at 15 White Street in Tribeca.  See www.sohophoto.com

October Stories
Legislation for parking permits back on track
After numerous delays, a meeting dealing with the legislation for press parking permits resulted with
an agreement on format will be the centerpiece for negotiations with city officials to finally come up
with something.

While the exact wording of the document is being kept on a need-to-know basis, a final plan will hopefully be worked out with the city and NYPD soon. The NPPA has assured that both still photographers and video cameramen are included in this proposed legislation.

The NYPPA committee, composed of Chip East, Ray Stubblebine, Justin Lane, David Handschuh and Todd Maisel, seek to assure that all legitimate photographers and cameramen (video included) be granted the proper credentials to do their job. While we seek to continue our ability to park at our assignments,
we must emphasize that the new proposals will sharply cut the ability of anyone who abuses the proposed parking permits.  Strong penalities for improper usage of said "passes" will be strictly enforced. Members of the media are urged to remove the old passes from their windows as the city is seizing them. Further, those parking for long periods of time should park their cars either in an NYP zone with NYP plates.
If you don’t have plates, pay for parking. Recently, several members have had their cars towed by the city and their expired parking permits confiscated. The passes also open people up to further summonses for having the expired permit exposed. Hiding the expiration date is no longer a good way to proceed.
The city will still tow the vehicle.

We urge all media to get press plates for their cars as this is the only defense we have now.

In most cases where large numbers of media are gathered, the city leaves our vehicles alone. But never assume you are. We are especially vulnerable when media outlets do stories on city officials using parking permits, so be alert.

With any luck, we should be able to work out a deal with the city to bring back our ability to park at our assignments. Don’t hesitate to ask any member of the parking permit committee questions about what is going on.

Elections this month
Please vote in the National Election being held throughout the month. Do not disenfranchise yourself by not voting for the candidates that you believe will do the job you expect. PLEASE – go to the www.nppa.org website and vote for two candidates. It is easy to do and you will be making your
voice heard.

Election Clarrification
“I, Todd Maisel, thought I had the inherent power to endorse as R2 Director and this is not the case and will not occur again on this blast or the R2 website.”

No news yet on stolen gear - NY Post photog has tires stolen
Paul Martinka of the New York Post came out of his home in Kensington a week ago, and found the tires of his Honda Accord stolen. Unfortunately, the tires cost $800. The Honda Accord is the top stolen car in the United States and is heavily hit by thieves for parts so beware.

It has been especially bad for photographers of late as many have been hit by thieves for things as small as a GPS, to the most recent big hit when Todd Maisel was hit for about $30K worth of Nikon camera equipment and Canon video gear. A $500 reward continues to be offered for information leading to the thief or thieves who were responsible for this theft from his garage in Marine Park, Brooklyn in August. (See September 2009 News). Finding the thief is much more important than getting gear returned as the thieves went onto private property and into a garage for the theft.

Keep a look out for people using high end Nikon D3’s that are a bit beaten up. The reward is still being offered. Contact Todd at toddphoto@aol.com or call 646-872-5374.

Calendar Items
J&R music in the park and in their store Don’t miss the celebrities at the store!
Our Friends at J&R Music and Computer World put on a great show this past summer with both musicians giving autographs at their Park Row headquarters, and entertainers giving it their all in City Hall Park.

There are still a few more appearances coming up for photographers to make photos and sales.
In May, Steven Pasquale, a star on Rescue Me as the character Sean Garrity, signed autographs and played music in honor of his CD, “Somethin Like Love.” In June, Vanessa Williams signed autographs in honor of her new CD, “The Real Thing.” Vanessa, as you recall, is a former Miss America, turned actress and also a great singer. Air Supply visited J&R in August where they signed autographs and sang three songs from their new album.

 

Here is another opportunity: The Manhattan Transfer will be performing and signing autographs on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. Jon Secada will be performing and signing autographs on Sept. 22nd at 6 p.m.  For his new CD, “Expressions"

UPDATE ON CORPORATE DISCOUNTS:
Until further notice Abe Brown and only my colleague Shirley are the contacts.
You may email with products for discount at amb@jr.com or call J&R and ask for Abe Brown.
Shirley is at 212 238-9000, ext 2420.  NPPA members should call us before coming down.
DON’T FORGET, NPPA members get up to 5% off any item that is not on sale.
Ask the corporate department for your discount today!

Syracuse meeting focus on “Navigating the Downturn”
Region 2 NPPA is sponsoring the upcoming Navigating the Downturn series in Syracuse at Syracuse University's Herg Auditorium in Newhouse III for Thursday, Oct. 7, 7-9:30 p.m. All photographers, educators and interested parties are invited to join us for food, drink and fraternity.

We will have several speakers including Associate Professor Seth Gitner who comes from the Roneoke Times in Virginia and bring to the table a huge insight into the downturn and what it means to all.

Also coming to this event is Region 2 Director Todd Maisel and Associate Director Mark Dye, both of whom are active press photographers and adjunct professors at City Tech, City University of New York.

A panel of other speakers will be on hand to discuss how they are surviving the storm in the
media industry. Many people have lost their jobs, or are struggling to maintain clients in a difficult economic environment.

The event is being organized locally by Heather Ainsworth, a noted photojournalist based near Syracuse. Anyone wishing to come to this event and needs transportation, let us know now. Both Mark and Todd will be driving that morning from New York City for the Syracuse event.

For more information, please contact Todd Maisel at toddphoto@aol.com or call 646-872-5374.

PhotoPlus Expo – booth will be there as it was last year





The National Press Photographers Association will be well represented at this year’s PhotoPlus Expo at the Javits Center on the weekend of Oct. 22-24th.

The booth will be hosted by Executive Director Jim Straight and Director of Region 2, Todd Maisel
and his associate director Mark Dye at various points of the event. We will be available to give advice
on photographic issues, provide information on upcoming events and help for members while in
New York City.

If you are coming to New York City for the event and need any assistance,
call Todd Maisel at 646-872-5374.

Northern Short Course comes to New Brunswick
This year’s Northern Short Course will be at the Hyatt in New Brunswick, New Jersey from March 11-13. We’re offering car pooling from New York and New Jersey.

Please attend as this is your organization, too.  Contact us at toddphoto@aol.com.

Exhibits
SB Design in successful WTC exhibit opening, special book
 

SB Designs led by designer/artist Seolbin Park released a new book of pictures and artworks that contain beautiful memories of Twin Towers once stood, raising thousands of dollars for the September 11th Families’ Association. We urge the photographic community to support this effort and purchase the book for a great cause.

SB Designs sought to “bring back those wonderful era and joy of having those towers in New York City.” SB Designs curated the largest numbers of artists and images that will be showing on multiple digital screens beginning on September 11, 2009 until September 30, 2009 at the gallery office at
125 East 4th Street.

The books sell for $50 with all profits going to the charity. We urge all photographers to show support
for the effort by visiting the gallery and purchase the book. Work that didn’t get into the book, including
that which are in the book, are being shown at SB Designs. A follow up book is also being planned with information to come. For more information or would like to purchase the book, email Selobin at seolbin@mac.com. http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.sbdigitalgallery.com

NYPPA Exhibit at Ukrainian Museum Sept. 30
The New York Press Photographers Association exhibit the 2009 Year in Pictures will be held at the Ukrainian Museum, 222 East 6th Street (bet. 2nd and 3rd Aves.) on the Lower East Side on Wednesday, September 30, 6 p.m.

Mark Dye, Associate Director of Region 2 NPPA is serving as chairman of the exhibit committee,
which promises to be the best yet since moving from the Forbes Gallery. Thanks to a generous donation from Con Ed, the exhibit will feature 28 huge boards, with the photos laid out in
newspaper form.

There will be food, drinks and entertainment for the evening, so don’t miss this incredible event.
Members of the NYPPA will receive a free 2009 Annual Book with the best photos of the year.  

You must rsvp to attend RSVP@nyppa.org. 

Exhibit and gallery competition in Brooklyn
Gallery 364 at 364 74th Street in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, will have its next Art Competition themed "HUMOR" on Thursday, October 15, 7 p.m. Please make a note of it on your calendar and keep the
entries coming. New deadline for art: October 10th, 2009
July - August Stories
***NEW ALERT*** In search of my gear - All my cameras stolen!


On August 20th, unknown persons broke into my garage in Marine Park, Brooklyn and into my
Daily News car, breaking a window, and stole the following equipment:

Canon HV30 with Canon Wide Angle lens,
a v-bracket with Senheisser Microphone on one side and a Sony Wireless receiver on the other side
with wires included.

The following is a list of still cameras stolen:

Nikon D3 #2057132
D3 #2044956
D2x #6024708
Nikon D2H #2014687
24-70 2.8 #227153,
70-200VR lens #236468
17-35 #284965
Nikon 12-24 #209068
10.5 mm #539456,
28-70 #259328
60mm #3029892,
24-85 #401621
50mm #4539134
2 (two) SB800
SU800 #273089
SB 80 DX #2088536
SB 28DX #2088536
TC 201 2x extender #430036

They only took camera gear – so we expect to see it being sold somewhere. A $500 reward is being offered for information leading to the apprehension of those responsible for this theft.
All of the serial numbers are with police and with Nikon as of Monday.
Contact Todd Maisel at 646-872-5374. All calls will be kept confidential.

Bloggers to cause a change the how we get our press cards
As the result of lawsuits filed by several “bloggers” to obtain the right to hold a valid New York City Press Card, the entire process and requirements to obtain a press card will be changed, according to an attorney for the city and an attorney for the bloggers. New “working press cards” will be issued for a period of two (2) years by the NYPD, with the requirement that applicants must present six clips that prove that they are working media during the prior two year period. Only “working press cards” will be issued and press identifications will be eliminated. Many broadcast media have requested press identification for their tertiary employees including newsroom managers, editors and other lesser employees. This is still in discussions.

The changes were announced at a recent meeting at the New York Law School in Manhattan hosted by civil liberty’s attorney Norman Seigel and an attorney from New York City’s Corporation Counsel. Among those present were: NPPA Regional Director Todd Maisel, NYPPA representatives including David Handschuh, Chip East, Justin Lane, and Richard Drew. Also in attendance was NY Press Club President Glen Schuck and representatives of Society of Professional Journalists.
parking   parking
     
parking   parking

It was further explained that if an application is denied, the applicant can apply to the NYPD for a hearing within 20 days of the denial. After a hearing, the NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information would have to provide a reason for denial within 90 days. If the application is still denied, the applicant can apply for an “article 78” that would seek an addition redress in State Court. A Federal case can be done within three years.

The attorney’s for both sides are putting together criteria for what clips and video might qualify for a “working press card,” but what was made clear is that getting a press card will be easier than in the past. It matters less to the NYPD than before because there are no parking permits being issued to the media. Norman Seigel, attorney for Jose Martinez, a long time writer and blogger who comments widely on City Hall, said he would work with interested parties on finding proper ways to issue the new cards, but the bottom line was to make sure his clients received their proper credentials after having won in court. Martinez apparently didn’t see eye to eye with the mayor, and the NYPD revoked his pass. He sued and won his pass back.

Parking permits and the future
NPPA R2 Director Todd Maisel is working on the NYPPA committee to come up with solutions to the parking permit dilemma. A plan to make changes to the law have been somewhat sidetracked due to the changes that have occurred to the issuance of press cards in New York City. It is no longer feasible for photographers to go this alone, and NYPPA attorney Jason Criss has advised working with other groups to create new rules that would allow the issuance of press parking permits again. NPPA R2 will continue to insist that both still photographers and videographers be represented in negotiations.

A number of issues have arisen concerning parking permits and will be discussed with all the groups concerned. A strategy has been formed, but we cannot disclose details as there are a few government officials who might oppose our efforts.

In the past, we have urged patience, now urge you to speak up to your leaders and ask questions. We will not allow this issue to die and we plan to be relentless in pursuing what is so necessary to our profession – the ability to park at or near our assignments without having to pay onerous parking fees; park so far from jobs that we must haul gear further than we must; or having to go out of our way to park that will cause unnecessary delays in our coverage of breaking news.

Be advised that expired permits can be confiscated, especially from vehicles that are towed by the city. 

Always try to park legally whenever possible. While the city has not gone crazy ticketing our vehicles at major assignments, many have reported being ticketed or towed at jobs where few other media are located for assignment. So be careful where you park.

We cannot give details, at this time but rest assured that we will not rest until the city provides continued access for our vehicles to cover the news.

Change in way we will do business at NPPA. I supported it! By Todd Maisel
A lot of people are wondering what happened at the NPPA Convergence and national board meeting and I can say we passed a new set of by-laws that will change the way the organization does business for years to come.

The change makes six nationally elected board of directors, three additional selected by the president with the approval of the six nationally elected members, and makes regional chairman and assistant chairman still responsible for their regions with a vote for a regional representative that will serve on the board as long as they see fit.

Essentially, this centralizes the board and allows it to concentrate efforts on national scale. It also makes the board responsible to the entire nation, and not just to their regional concerns – while keeping the regions intact. It was always my belief that while regional representation was important, the NPPA needed to concentrate on issues that were important to the entire membership. The organization needed board members who could make decisions that didn’t just represent a regional concern, but decisions for the greater good of the entire world.

The new by-laws give the president additional powers, which some of us have still have reservations. However, we are convinced that the current leadership can make the decisions with the new by-laws that will bring increasing benefit to the membership. By voting for this change, I essentially voted myself out of office as of January 1. In place of this, I intend to run for both chairman of Region 2 and as a national director. I will serve only one term as chairman so that the membership can better get to know my current associate director, Mark Dye, who will then run for chairman of the region.

I’ve always believed that national directors should represent all of the members, not just people in one state or another. As most may recall, I’ve taken an active role in fighting for photographers rights in various parts of the country – including helping a student photographer from Virginia Tech get his equipment returned from police who detained him after the infamous shooting murder of 32 people, to the Republican National Convention in Minnesota where I was able to get attorney’s for photographers who were being held by police for no reason.

The same is true for educational seminars as I have been a big supporter of the Northern Short Course which travels to different states each year, as does the Convergence and Immersion programs. These are huge assets for our organization.
 

The latest program we will work on is the program entitled, “Navigating the Downturn,” in which we will use the national program to help our upstate and Canadian colleagues and bring them information that might help in this economic time. But we must first try to make it work and see if our leadership is right – that we need better expertise on our board and reduce the number of board members to a more manageable level that will allow work to get done on a national level.

There are those who still believe we’ve make a mistake and if that is the case, I will be the first to work to reverse the changes. But we must first try to make it work and see if our leadership is right.

Our friend Robert, takes to a bike mecea

Photo caption: While photographing the Statue of Liberty model being brought across the Brooklyn Bridge this month, we spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Notice on the bicycle is photographer Robert Mecea, our good friend who lost his job from Newsday this past year.
He is currently pursuing a career as a personal trainer, so it is no surprise to see him on a bicycle crossing the bridge.

To see his video on his new career, see NY Times photographer Chang Lee’s video at http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/nyregion/secondchance/index.html

Calendar Items
J&R calendar Photo Opportunities at J&R
You want to make some money? Well, some celebrities will be showing up at J&R Music and Computer World in the coming month. J&R is our friend, so when you show up there, tell them you are a NPPA member and they will get you to the front row for a photo.

Here are some photo ops you should check out:
Tarrus Riley will be performing and signing autographs on Tuesday, August 4 at 12:30 p.m.
His appearance will be in conjunction with his new release, “Contagious,” $13.99.

The Moonlighters will be performing and signing autographs on Friday, August 7th at 12:30 p.m. in conjunction with their release, “Enchanted,” $10.99

The musical sensation Air supply will be performing and signing autographs on August 26 at 6 p.m.
Their appearance coincides with their new release, “Free love.” $13.99

Syracuse meeting to focus on “Navigating the Downturn”
Region 2 and friends from Syracuse will be organizing a seminar in the Syracuse area for October under the national headline of “Navigating the Downturn,” in which we will bring experts and successful colleagues together with those still struggling in this economic time to find ways to succeed.

We are lucky enough to have Seth Gitner who is moving to Syracuse. He is joining the staff of Syracuse University in the fall as an assistant professor. Gitner is moving from Roanoke, Virginia where he worked at the Roanoke Times. He is also an alumni of Rochester Institute of Technology, class of 1995.

Both R2 Director Todd Maisel and Associate Director Mark Dye will be on hand to help host this event. There will be refreshments and a great meeting of colleagues from throughout the region.

The exact date of the event will be announced in the September blast, so stay tuned.

Northern Short Course comes to New Brunswick in March
Next year’s Northern Short Course will be at the Hyatt in New Brunswick, New Jersey from March 11-13. Region 2 is arranging both car pooling from New York City and New Jersey, so anyone wishing to attend this year’s great event, should contact Toddphoto@aol.com In this current economic environment, learning new skills will be helpful in navigating this economic downturn.

Stay tuned for more information on this event.

Exhibits
Nicole Tung, Joe Woolhead and Vicky Roy in WTC exhibit documenting rebuilding
In their first group exhibit, young photographers Nicole Tung of New York City and Vicky Roy of India joined photographer Joe Woolhead in an exhibit entitled “On Site – Documenting the Rebuilding of the World Trade Center.” The exhibit opened on Thursday, July 23 at the World Trade Center 7 building.
This project on the WTC reconstruction was undertaken in March, after Nicole Tung, and Vicky Roy were nominated, and then selected and funded by the Maybach Family Foundation who is working in conjunction with Silverstein Properties for this arts program. R2 Director Todd Maisel nominated her after David Hanschuh, her professor at New York University, recommended her for the project.

Woolhead is a photographer assigned by the rebuilding team to photograph the site from beginning to end and he joined the two younger photographers for this exhibit.

All three have been photographing the 'rebirth' and goings-on down at the site as the new towers and 9/11 memorial rise. The exhibition was held on the 10th floor, where there is a full view of the site from which you can see all the changes that have taken place since 2001.

wtc_exhibit   wtc_exhibit
     
wtc exhibit   wtc_exhibit


Call for Entry/Pre 911 group Exhibition at SB Designs
SB Designs is collecting pictures and artworks that contain beautiful memories of Twin Towers once stood. SB Designs seeks to “bring back those wonderful era and joy of having those towers in New York City.” SB Designs is curating the biggest numbers of artists and images that will be showing on multiple digital screens beginning on September 11, 2009 until September 30, 2009.

The deadline is by August 15 for the book, however we will accept the images before and during the exhibition to be presented at SB D.

All the profit from sales of book, excluding the basic cost for book printing, will be donated to
911 Foundation.

Please contact me if you like to participate in at seolbin@mac.com. http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.sbdigitalgallery.com