Basics

• Originally From: Swedesboro, N.J.
• Email: samfran@patch.com
• Phone: 201-780-5407
• Birthday: Oct. 7
• Bio (Professional highlights, marital status, hobbies, etc.):

A transplanted South Jersey-ian, I recently moved to North Jersey to live in and write about Ridgewood. Admittedly, I'm fresh out of college (La Salle University -- Go Explorers!) but that doesn't mean I'm fresh out of experience. This spring, I wrote features for the Philadelphia Inquirer, and last year I worked on the city desk at the Press of Atlantic City. At La Salle, I served as editor in chief for the La Salle Collegian.

On top of my writing interest, I enjoy rooting for the Phillies (sorry all Mets/Yankees fans in Ridgewood), playing guitar, dabbling in improv/sketch comedy, and being with those I love. I really don't have favorite pop culture titles, but to reveal a little about myself, I'll just generalize. Book: Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy; Movie: Mallrats; Album: Sha Sha by Ben Kweller.

Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principlesc  of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible and human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal certain key beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.

This disclosure is not a license for our editors to inject these beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that our beliefs are on the record will force us to be ever mindful to write, report, and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you, the user, ever think you see evidence that we failed in this mission, we wholeheartedly invite you to let us know.


Politics

• How would you describe your political beliefs?

Although a moderate Democrat, I generally vote for individuals instead of parties. I've been known to vote Republican.

Religion

• How religious would you say you are? Casual, observant, devout, non-religious?

Observant Catholic. Played guitar at mass in college.

Local Hot Button Issues

• What do you think are the most important issues facing the community?

Although the Graydon Pool discussion garners significant attention (deservedly), I'm intrigued by the village's parking policies—specifically long-term parking for commuters.

• Where do you stand on each of these issues?

Not sure, yet. What do you think? E-mail me: samfran@patch.com