Sins on Sacred Ground, only in Newark, New Jersey

Well, there goes that new car smell! In less than a week of owning my new blue Mazda, vandals smashed open the drivers side window and stole all my precious cargo. In a matter of seconds (presumably) 2 digital video cameras, a monitor, a tripod and dozens of ancillary production equipment was ripped from the backseat.

It's no surprise that the crime took place in broad daylight, only 2 streets from a police station. And, it's no surprise that nobody who may have witnessed the caper spoke up about it. Furthermore, it's no surprise that the sinners sinned on sacred ground.

Yup, only in a rotten city like Newark, New Jersey (the armpit of America) would such a bold and audacious offense take place.

Unfortunately, the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a National Historic Landmark sits smack dab in the middle of this lawless metropolis. My car was parked less than 20 feet from where I stood videotaping interiors including the pulpit and sanctuary. The stone walls are so thick that was probably the reason I didn't hear the security alarm go off.

I expected to blog about how well everything went in Newark when I was done taping. This house of worship is deserving of a full page spread and dozens of quotes. Regrettably, it will have to wait until I stop lamenting over my lost camera. Again, Newark sucks.