First Night Whitman: Ringing in 2015 with a Toll House Cookie

The small South Shore town of Whitman, Mass has done it again: hundreds gathered in the town center to ring in the new year with a giant Toll House Cookie drop at midnight, followed by fireworks.

The streets downtown were closed down at 7:00pm and the six foot cookie was hoisted into place with a giant crane, high above Duval's Pharmacy.

Big Daddy Ray was your emcee for the night, on hand to keep everyone moving around and warm before the midnight countdown.

This year's band, Divas With a Twist, also helped to keep the crowd hopping to warmth until the cookie came down.

Billed as a night of family friendly fun, we were happy to see the kids representing. They were dancing (and sitting) in the street.

Not just family friendly, but four-legged friend friendly, as well!!  Can we get a "woof woof"?

People also brought their own fun! Here we see some people who created their own "cookie drop", scaled down, of course.

The night started out slow but well by midnight hundreds were gathered to see Divas With a Twists' final set, which led us to Big Daddy Ray going from "Jump Around" to "Let's Go Crazy".

Yours truly, your blog author, sporting the 2015 First Night Whitman button, with all proceeds going to the Whitman Food Pantry.

And the clock strikes midnight! Should times long past be forgot (days of auld lang syne). This is what it's all about: a ten second countdown, cookie drops and fireworks commence!

Special thanks to the First Night Whitman committee for all their hard work in bringing this together, as well as bringing so many citizens of a great little town together. More thanks and kudos to the Whitman Police Dept and the Whitman Fire Dept as always, for keeping our town safe.

Laura & John: The Neighborhood Club {March 29, 2014}

Going through Laura & John's wedding photos to write this blog post, all I can say is "wow"! Surely one of the most fun-filled weddings I have photographed, starting with getting ready at the Quincy Marriott, during the ceremony at St. Agatha's in Milton and right through until the last dance at The Neighborhood Club, there wasn't one moment that didn't exude Laura & John's love for each other, and for their friends and family who joined them that day.

Laura & John's wedding at St. Agatha's was unique in that it was modernly steeped in tradition. A very cool priest, Rev. Murphy, let the day dictate itself instead of trying to run the show made for an easy-going, nicely flowing and worry free ceremony.

Laura & John choose a great venue for family and friends to gather for their reception. The Neighborhood Club helped to give them a wonderful night of great food, dancing and celebration that won't be forgotten.

Church: St. Agatha's, Milton Reception Venue: The Neighborhood Club Photographer: Photography by Joe Goldsberry DJ: John Cristoferi Flowers: Coleen's Flower Shop Wedding Cake: Montillio's Bakery

First Night Whitman: We're Gonna Need a Bigger Glass of Milk…

Whitman, Massachusetts: Home of the Toll House Cookie. Yes, that is my little town's claim to fame, and that iconic cookie, made famous by Ruth Wakefield and catapulted to fame by Nestle, just turned 75 years old. How do you celebrate something as major as that? You ask a local high school to build a six-foot cookie and drop it from the sky at midnight on New Year's Eve, of course! Sounds crazy, but that's exactly what happened last night in the town center, in front of Duval's Pharmacy and Mary Lou's Coffee. It wasn't "just a cookie". There were bands, a DJ, food vendors and lots and lots of people. There was also 2,014 homemade Toll House cookies given away, some Whitman First Night lip balms, LOUD horns, glow sticks and so much good cheer, you couldn't help but be glad you braved the cold and showed up. With funding from Nestle, the Whitman Winterfest Committee was able to put together a truly unique once in a life time event. WATD 95.9 FM was on hand with Kevin Tocci to do a live remote with up to date info and interviews with the key players who were "making history happen". If you were there, you know what an amazing job they did. If you couldn't make it, the photos will tell the tale.

DJ Big Daddy Ray from RPE was on hand as the Master of Ceremonies, kept the flow throughout the night that brought it all together. It's not a party until Big Daddy Ray is in the house.

Did I mention 2014 homemade Toll House Cookies?? Free for the asking, delicious for the eating, a hit all night long!

One moment in time that literally made my night… I witnessed Cookie Monster chasing a giant Toll House cookie down the street, clearly with intentions of also chasing a glass of milk if one happened by. But later in the night, there was this… and all was right in the world.

The big draw for the night was the music. The bands kept the crowds dancing, which in turn kept them warm. These bands gave their all, and it was nice to see someone in the crowd named Mary hand over a pair of gloves to one of the singers. Baby, it (was) cold outside!

6 Foot Sunday literally brought the crowd into midnight, finishing up their cover of Sweet Child o' Mine about 12 seconds before midnight (and the Toll House cookie drop). They did a "Linkin Park meets Skee Lo" cover of "I Wish" that should be at the top of the charts as we speak, and their unique take on "Airplanes" left the crowd pleading for more.

Finally (last but certainly not least) what's a First Night celebration with pyrotechnics? You can't drop a six-foot Toll House cookie at midnight without fireworks.

Thanks to all who helped make this night happen… Nestle, Whitman Fire Dept, Whitman Police Dept, and The Whitman Winterfest Committee. This blog post is a little more personal than most, but we want to say we are very grateful to live in such a wonderful small town. Have a great 2014!

5th Annual Run for the Roses

Once again, we were very proud to be the official photographer for the annual Run for the Roses, this year held on Sunday September 15 at the Whitman VFW. If you are not familiar with this annual motorcycle run, now in its 5th year, it's held in honor of Rachel and Lillian Rose Entwistle, a mom and her baby daughter who were victims of domestic violence at the hands of Rachel's husband (Lillian's father) Neil. This motorcycle run started 5 years ago, on a rainy Sunday, with a small number of motorcycles, has become an annual event which this year topped over 800 motorcycles, as well as many classic cars.

It's a day of  "coming together for a common cause". Men, women, old and young. All these people coming together is truly an amazing feat. Riders came from all over Massachusetts and from as far away as Florida.

We should mention that some four-legged friends also came out to support the fight against domestic violence...

The official logo gets stuck on many helmets, because these rides are proud to support the fight against domestic violence.

Every year, the organizers arrange for great music and entertainment. This year they recruited the Mumblers to perform in the Whitman VFW pavilion to entertain the crowds.

You can almost smell the burgers cooking right through the blog. Every year, volunteers come out to cook up a storm. After all, these guys and gals work up an appetite!

Rachel's dad (Lillian's granddad) speaks every year to thank everyone for coming out.

Every year sees a purple balloon release after all the bikes come back from the run.

If you've never been to the Run for the Roses, or didn't make it to this year's event, "like" their FaceBook page to be sure you don't miss next year's event. You don't even have to ride to come out and support this great cause.

You can view all the photos from the 2013 Run for the Roses here.

A Saphire Estate Wedding: Jes & Josh

We photographed a wedding at Saphire Estate in Sharon, Mass. last month that could not possible have been more perfect. The bride, Jes, was an absolute joy to work with. Her groom, Josh, was an equal pleasure to his bride, truly a match made in heaven. The friends, the family, the vendors, the venue, the sunset... this is why I love my job.

It was especially cool that the groom's aunt, Hon. Beverly Weinger Boorstein, was officiating the ceremony. She was smooth and captivating, and had the guests mesmerized.

The first dance is possibly one of the most pivotal events of the night. DJ Derek Holt from Entertainment Specialists was on hand to ensure that everything went as planned.

The traditional parent dances took a unique turn when both couples, bride & dad and groom & mom, took to the floor together.

The traditional dancing didn't stop there. The night couldn't be complete without a Hora.

A few moments stolen away from the crowd is treasured, because the day is over in the blink of an eye.

When you have a lake, an amazing sunset and a newly married couple, the next photo is a must.

We'd like to thank Jes & Josh for trusting Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry with their wedding photography. Congratulations, and best wishes for a happy & healthy life together!

Venue: Saphire Estate Officiant: Hon. Beverly Weinger Boorstein Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry Flowers: Studio One Twenty Three DJ: Entertainment Specialists

Jen & Cody {July 6, 2013} The Neighborhood Club

With all the crazy weather we've had this season, Jen & Cody got lucky on their wedding day. It was warm with some clouds, and the rain stayed away. The alluring bride and her girls were getting ready at The Quincy Marriott, and so it was there Jen & Cody would also have their "first look". The stage is set, and Cody is anxiously awaiting his first look of his bride. This photo, one in a series, truly captures all of the emotion, excitement and bliss that is happening and that is to come...

And once their eyes have met, the anxiety melts into a calm serenity that will set the mood for the rest of the day.

When one arrives to their wedding, we always suggest you arrive in style...

Jen & Cody's wedding ceremony was nothing short of spectacular. One of Jen's bridesmaids, Julia, doubled as their officiant. The colors were amazing, the smiles were stunning and the words they spoke were both personal and winsome.

Once everyone was in place, Julia was by her friends, upfront and center, to help them exchange the vows that will change their lives forever in a few short moments.

Now it's official, and it's just about time to celebrate!

There's always time for an extra hug, a well wish, a moment to reflect.

Jen & Cody had Epic Entertainment on hand to take over the Master of Ceremonies and entertainment for the evening. Bring in the wedding party, and start the fête!

First things first, and that's the first dance.

A wedding day is full of "firsts" and traditions, and Jen & Cody did not leave out the tradition of the wedding cake. The wedding cake dates back to ancient Rome, and generally symbolizes good luck to and for the new couple. Jen & Cody's wedding cake, by White's Bakery, fits the bill.

As the night wore on, there was much tripping the light fantastic attended to and performed by all. You'll have to check in with Jen & Cody for more photographic proof, but here's one peek...

As the night winded down, we knew what a great wedding we had on our hands (and in our cameras). You, the reader, may or may not know Jen & Cody personally, but we think you'll feel like you know them after reading their wedding blog post. A wonderful, fun couple who have a lifetime together ahead of them, we wish them well as they endeavor into married life.

Getting Ready/First Look: The Boston-Quincy Marriott Wedding Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Neighborhood Club Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry DJ/Photobooth: Epic Entertainment Boston Flowers: Suzanne Luck Wedding Cake: White's Bakery Officiant: Julia Sellers

Leah & Eric: Holy Family Church {March 9, 2013}

We'd like to take you on a photographic journey of a wedding that took place just over a week ago. Leah & Eric were married by Father Hickey at Holy Family Church in Rockland, and continued the celebration with family and friends at The Pembroke Country Club. The stage was set: a beautiful bride, a handsome groom... A wedding party filled with family and friends and overflowing with smiles and tears. There were tears of joy for the coming together of two beautiful people and their families, and there were tears of sorrow for those who could not be with them in body, but were surely there in spirit, to offer Leah & Eric their blessings from beyond. Above all, love each other deeply. You must be ready for a peek at the bride by now? Here she is...

This wedding couldn't get underway without some smiles and advice from the bride's grandmother.

Grandmothers can speak volumes without saying a word...

The bride always get first dibs on the blog, being mentioned and showcased first. That's just how it goes. But we had a groom, as well, and the groom had plenty of support.

A grand entrance was made by all, including the youngest of the wedding party. Lucky guy, or lucky girls? You decide.

As the ceremony gets underway, Leah and Eric follow the lead of Father Hickey on their journey of becoming man and wife.

Smiles, laughs, and stolen moments, unknowingly captured and frozen in time.

Once it's official, it's official forever!

It was on to the Pembroke Country Club, where, announcing for the first time ever, as husband and wife... well, you know the rest!

The first dance tradition was not lost on Leah and Eric. These two were in a world of their own, yet surrounded by family and friends. Congratulations, Leah & Eric. Here's to a lifetime of happiness!

Ceremony: Holy Family Church, Rockland Reception: Pembroke Country Club Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry DJ: Sister Spin Cake: Montilio's Flowers: Barry's Flowers

4th Annual Run for the Roses {September 23, 2012}

Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry is quite honored to have been the official photographer for the third year in a row for one of the largest motorcycle runs in Massachusetts. Run for the Roses is an annual event that raises funds and awareness to help prevent domestic violence. Born out of the tragic murders of Rachel and Lillian Rose Entwistle, the annual Run for the Roses has grown to involve thousands of people coming out in support of ending domestic violence. This year saw over 600 motorcycles participate in the run, all makes and models, all shapes and sizes, all coming together for a one greater cause.

This run isn't supported by motorcycles alone. Classic cars line up to join in and become part of this yearly event.

Every car and every motorcycle have something in common... the people who make Run for the Roses the huge success that it has become. People come from all walks of life to this common ground, hoping to make a difference. Check out just a few of the faces who care enough to make this annual motorcycle run a priority in their lives.

The amount of time, food, raffle items, and service donated to make this all come together and happen every year is truly a sight to behold. As always, the event cumulates with a purple balloon release, sending those balloons up to the heavens where the Run for the Roses namesakes reside.

All photos from the Run for the Roses 2012 can be viewed here. Please visit The Run for the Roses website for information on how you can help fight to end domestic violence.

We're going to the zoo, zoo, zoo... You can come too, too, too...

Full disclosure: Capron Park Zoo is the first zoo I ever visited as a kid. So of course I was giddy with delight when I found out that Joe and I would be the official photographers for their Passport to Rio fund-raiser. I can also tell you, with no shame, that Capron Park Zoo is by far my favorite zoo. You're sure to agree that I have visited some truly world-class zoos when I tell you that I have been to Roger Williams Park & Zoo, The Cincinnati Zoo, The National Zoo (Washington, DC), Lowry Park Zoo (Tampa), The Metro Richmond Zoo (Virginia), and even The London Zoo. The one thing all zoos have in common is they need money stay open. Capron Park Zoo hosted their annual fund-raising gala this past weekend with the theme of Passport to Rio. This event raised over $15,000 for the zoo, and having attended this incredibly fun and well run event, that amount comes as no surprise to me.

Genuine Brazilian music filled the air throughout the entire night, provided by Samba Viva! along with their authentic Samba dancers who engaged the crowd and had every person, old, young and in between, on their feet.

Patrons of the zoo had full access to viewing all the animals. The animals really do "come alive" at night. If you didn't get to see the rare albino alligator currently on loan, you may have missed out, as she is going home to Florida on September 25. Her name is Betty White, and she really is a looker!

The lionesses were enjoying the cool beat of the Brazilian music, not dancing to it, but obviously enjoying it.

The lionesses weren't dancing to the beat, but the zoo supporters sure were!

The many volunteers did such an amazing job transforming The Capron Park Zoo into a night in Rio.

Guests were treated to authentic Brazilian cuisine, served up by Papgallo as well as other foods and desserts provided by Scorpios and Uno.

If you missed out on all the fun last weekend, it's never to late to help this wonderful zoo stay in business. You might ask, what's the best way I can help? Visit the zoo! Even better, buy a Capron Park Zoo membership. This could very well be the most economical yet personally rewarding way to support The Capron Park Zoo. Membership includes reciprocity to over 125 other zoos and museums, including the Boston Museum of Science.

Visit The Capron Park Zoo's Facebook page for up to date information on events and happenings, and maybe we'll see YOU at next year's Passport fundraising Gala.

To view all the photos taken by Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry at Passport to Rio, click here.

August 18, 2012 {Amy & Steve} Their Awesome Greek Wedding!

Amy & Steve didn't let a little rain get in the way of having the absolute best wedding day ever. First things first, take a look at the amazing detail on Amy's gorgeous dress.

The ceremony was a traditional Greek wedding, held at St. Catherine's in Braintree.

Every groom needs a best man by his side, and Steve had his...

The ceremony was steeped in Greek tradition.

The crowns play a very important part of the ceremony. The crowns are said to be a visual reminder of what awaits us in Heaven, but they also are said to symbolize that the couple has just become King and Queen of their newly created family.

Another beautiful shot of the ceremony...

Every ceremony ends with "You may kiss the bride"...

Time for one last shot outside the church, before we head out to The Tirrell Room for Amy & Steve's reception.

We started with some indoor "formals", thanks to Mother Nature and her pesky rain drops.

Mother Nature was kind at some times during the day, and allowed us to get some outdoor photos.

Amy & Steve's first dance together as man and wife may have left only a few dry eyes in the house.

In case you were wondering if there was cake, the answer is: of course there was cake, silly!! Thank you, Montillio's Baking Company!

Mother Nature gave us a little reprieve later in the night, and we will close with one of those outdoor, end of the night shots...

Our congratulations to Amy & Steve, as well as our thanks for allowing us to be their wedding day photographer.

Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry Videography: Cupid Productions Wedding Cake: Montillio's Baking Company Reception Venue: The Tirrell Room Flowers: Barry's Flowers DJ: DJ Michael Tucker

Triangle's Employability 31st Annual Employee Recognition Celebration

We were honored, enlightened and educated when we photographed the 31st annual employee recognition celebration for Triangle's Employability at the Putnum Club in Gillette Stadium last week. Before we share some photos with the event, take a moment to click on the links above, and read what Employability is all about. Located in Braintree, Mass., Employability empowers people with disabilities to enjoy rich, fulfilling lives. They are committed to helping the world recognize that we are all people with ability. Check them out at PeopleWithAbility.org.

The 31st annual employee recognition award went to Lenny Kaplan. Lenny has been working with Employability for over 9 years. One of the many things that was said about Lenny that night: "Lenny's committment to his job and compassion for his fellow employees is an inspiration to us all."

Employability is about 90% self sustaining by way of the products the manufacture and sell. They do not rely on a single dollar of government support. The other 10% is met by donations and events. There was a fabulous silent auction held at this event. Check out some of the action.

There were 3 live auction items bid on as well, including an autographed Tom Brady jersey. Bidding was fast and furious for all 3 items. Everything bid on was generously 100% donated.

2012 Miss Wheelchair Massachusetts was a guest, and even sang a couple of songs during the evening.

It was a night about accomplishment, infinite possibilities and self confidence. 2009 award recipient Trevor MacLeod spoke about the company he loves, and CEO Michael Rodrigues spoke to the crowd about all the wonderful employees at Triangle.

Employees and guests were treated to a tour of Gillette Stadium, going down through the tunnels, in the locker room, and out onto the field.

One of the amazing things about our job is that we never know where it will take us, and what we will learn. This night we learned about a local company that affords people of all abilities the chance to shine.