Today's MOZEN: WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!

Words and photo by F LoBuono

America, wake up! The Country we once knew is gone. November 8th changed all of that. Get it through your heads: The reports on the death of the GOP were greatly exaggerated. In fact, just the opposite happened. The Republicans now rule in ways beyond their wildest dreams. They control the Presidency, Congress, and, soon, the Supreme Court. And, the feckless, impotent Democrats are, once again, left looking like scolded children.

You can scream. You can hold your breath. You can stomp your feet. You can walk out of every Broadway production known to mankind and Donald Trump is still going to be President. And, the GOP is going to make your lives as miserable as possible - unless, of course, you happen to be a millionaire or billionaire. This is my take on things, anyway. I hope for all of us that I'm wrong. But, based on the past performance of the GOP, I don't think that I am. How they managed to convince working people that they are actually for THEM, with a track record of Union busting and anti-labor legislation, is baffling to me!

The sad thing is that we could have changed towards THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. We were offered a chance to say NO to bigotry, misogyny, and greed. Instead, we choose them as NEW American values. More disturbing is the thought that, perhaps, they always were . . .

As for the future, we all would like to think that no one man can change America that much. Well, it ain't just one man. Trump is just the tip of the iceberg. Beneath will lie a mountain of icy, mostly white men with malice in their hearts. I'm sure that they believe in their vision. Unfortunately, I do not. But, I'm just one little shit-head with a blog. What can I, or anyone else like me, do against the MACHINE? I fear the damage done. The Orange Genie is out of the bottle.

Certainly, I don't want to sound like such a pessimist. By nature I tend to be more "up" than "down". But, this is the real deal, gang. This new administration has the will AND the power to put into a play a vision of America that excludes instead of includes, negates when it should affirm, and punishes rather than rewards. But, unfortunately, that's America. Apparently, at least it is now.

And, I have no answers . . .

Today's MOZEN: NOT Girl Power

Words and photo by F LoBuono

Well, ladies, I hate to do this but I have a bone to pick with y'all. While it's true that white men voted for Donald Trump in sufficient numbers for him win the election, white women share the "blame", as well. CNN exit polls have indicated that nearly 53% of white women voted for Trump over Hillary Clinton. The fact that Clinton is a woman and Trump made several disparaging, if not down-right misogynistic, statements about women seemed to have little, if any, effect on many women. Their reasoning seem to be encapsulated in these quotes:

"That's because he's not working off a TelePrompTer or a script fine tuned by a consultant and focus groups," the Women for Trump site stated. "We look at his actions, not his words."

and

"Groping is a healthy thing to do. When you're heterosexual, you grope, okay? It's a good thing," Jane Biddick, a female Trump supporter, told New York Magazine.

Really.

And, by my own empirical observations on Facebook and other social media, MANY women flat-out despised Ms. Clinton in ways they could not even articulate beyond "I don't trust her". How they could come up with that conclusion after Ms. Clinton's successful defense in the Benghazi investigation AND the judgment by the FBI that there was no criminal intent in the e-mail fiasco, baffles me. It even infuriates me to think that SO many women were willing to vilify Hillary for her indiscretions while giving the obviously sexist and misogynistic Trump a pass. On a personal basis, I know that all the women that I have close associations with were OUTRAGED at the prospect. Still, I had other friends and family (women) who insisted that Trump's transgressions with women were irrelevant. IRRELEVANT???? How can the character of a man who will lead hundreds of millions be irrelevant? I'm sorry ladies for the vulgar comparison but, with that kind of logic, I assume that it's OK to "grab women who voted for Trump by the pussy simply because I only mean it in good male-type fun"!!

Really.

So, ladies, please spare me the holier than though attitude when it comes to this election. In addition to the tens of millions of voters who never even showed up, there's plenty of blame to go around. And, many of you share the burden.

Epilogue: First, let me thank EVERYONE for their comments. This is a passionate time and everyone's emotions seem to be especially raw. I get it. And, I appreciate the participation. If I might add my two-cents worth (surprise - surprise): I'm a big "character" guy. I will follow anyone that I believe shares the same values of honesty, compassion, passion, fairness, and equality that I do. I see NONE of these things in Mr. Trump. None. And, I've felt that way from the very beginning. He's a bully - and the worst kind of bully - a rich one who pays others to do his dirty work. I cannot follow someone that I don't respect. And, I have NEVER respected him - not from day one. From before the time he MOCKED a disabled reporter to his denigration of certain ethnic groups to the continued bully pulpit tactics, Mr. Trump has shown me nothing to be admired. Nothing. And, you women who "defend" him. Let me add this: if he spoke of the women I associate with in the way he spoke on that bus, he'd have to answer to me. And, I'm a MAN. Ladies, if you wanted to be treated as equals, then act like one!!!!!!!!!!! Don't take that shit!!!!!!!!!!! But, it's too late now. The damage is done. Now, live with it.

Today's MOZEN: Joannie

Words and photo by F LoBuono

In the beginning, I only knew her as The Woman Who Waits (first published 12/13/2013 http://talk-frank.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-short-story-woman-who-waits.html). A solitary figure, she stood in front of her apartment building on Broadway in Nyack in all types of weather, often for hours, smiling, waiving, and spreading love and good cheer to whomever she met. Children were particularly fond of her most gentle nature.

After a time, I got to know Joan, or Joannie, as I affectionately named her. She calls me "Al" because I remind her of Al Pacino  (although she says that I'm better looking!). She is part of a large family in the area with many sisters, all characterized by their red hair. I learned that Joannie had been through a lot in her time on earth. As a younger woman, she lost many years to addiction and, from time to time, still struggles with those stubborn demons. One of the ways that she dealt with her misfortune was, instead of feeling sorry for herself, to give back to others in the most simple of ways - by spreading joy to everyone who came in contact with her. And, through this, she became one of our towns most beloved figures. I look at her as what the Buddhists call a Bodhisattva or Spirit Guide, i.e. one that, by example, helps to show us the path to righteousness and salvation.

About two years ago, Joannie felt like she needed a change. So, she decided to move in with one of her sisters in California. Of course, this left a huge hole in the collective consciousness of our little village. It was as if someone had let some of the love escape. We could not help but notice the loss of her calming presence. But, ultimately, it was a good move for her and she is thriving. She has found comfort in her renewed faith, the foundation of her recovery.

We speak on the phone from time to time. But, Joannie is not much of a "phone person". That's OK. I don't need to talk to her to feel her presence. She will always be a part of this place and, therefore, me. Besides, like today, she does get back for the occasional visit with her sisters. We met for breakfast this morning at Johnnie Cakes and, of course, it was like we had never been apart. She beamed when she saw me and the feeling was mutual. Love and affection just exudes from this women. We made a few stops along Broadway to visit some old friends. The reaction was always the same: JOANNIE!! So good to see you. We LOVE you! It did her heart and mine, good.  At her request, we held hands and prayed together. She is always trying to save my soul - and, despite my misgivings about formal religion, I always accept her blessings - ALWAYS.

After a few hours, it was time to go our separate ways. Joannie would be returning to California in the morning. But, there was no sadness - only joy in each others company with the knowledge that we will always be there for one another.

God Speed, Joannie.

She would like to hear that - from me.

:)

Today's MOZEN: Joannie

Words and photo by F LoBuono

In the beginning, I only knew her as The Woman Who Waits (first published 12/13/2013 http://talk-frank.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-short-story-woman-who-waits.html). A solitary figure, she stood in front of her apartment building on Broadway in Nyack in all types of weather, often for hours, smiling, waiving, and spreading love and good cheer to whomever she met. Children were particularly fond of her most gentle nature.

After a time, I got to know Joan, or Joannie, as I affectionately named her. She calls me "Al" because I remind her of Al Pacino  (although she says that I'm better looking!). She is part of a large family in the area with many sisters, all characterized by their red hair. I learned that Joannie had been through a lot in her time on earth. As a younger woman, she lost many years to addiction and, from time to time, still struggles with those stubborn demons. One of the ways that she dealt with her misfortune was, instead of feeling sorry for herself, to give back to others in the most simple of ways - by spreading joy to everyone who came in contact with her. And, through this, she became one of our towns most beloved figures. I look at her as what the Buddhists call a Bodhisattva or Spirit Guide, i.e. one that, by example, helps to show us the path to righteousness and salvation.

About two years ago, Joannie felt like she needed a change. So, she decided to move in with one of her sisters in California. Of course, this left a huge hole in the collective consciousness of our little village. It was as if someone had let some of the love escape. We could not help but notice the loss of her calming presence. But, ultimately, it was a good move for her and she is thriving. She has found comfort in her renewed faith, the foundation of her recovery.

We speak on the phone from time to time. But, Joannie is not much of a "phone person". That's OK. I don't need to talk to her to feel her presence. She will always be a part of this place and, therefore, me. Besides, like today, she does get back for the occasional visit with her sisters. We met for breakfast this morning at Johnnie Cakes and, of course, it was like we had never been apart. She beamed when she saw me and the feeling was mutual. Love and affection just exudes from this women. We made a few stops along Broadway to visit some old friends. The reaction was always the same: JOANNIE!! So good to see you. We LOVE you! It did her heart and mine, good.  At her request, we held hands and prayed together. She is always trying to save my soul - and, despite my misgivings about formal religion, I always accept her blessings - ALWAYS.

After a few hours, it was time to go our separate ways. Joannie would be returning to California in the morning. But, there was no sadness - only joy in each others company with the knowledge that we will always be there for one another.

God Speed, Joannie.

She would like to hear that - from me.

:)

Todays MOZEN: Che

F LoBuono

Last night, much to my surprise, I was asked to shoot one of the many anti-Trump rallies that have sprung up around New York and much of the Country since his election. I say surprised because with the exception of the larger events, my work has been mostly confined to the Broadcast Center. But, I always go where I am assigned. So, I gathered my gear and headed to Union Square.

Being a Saturday night around 8 pm, I knew that traffic would be a bear. And, it was. It took me a half-hour just to drive from W57th. St. to the square on 14th. To avoid the "mayhem", I decided to park further towards the West side and walk in. When I got to the square I find the protesters already well engaged. I went to work immediately with my camera documenting the events.

There must have been a few hundred people - mostly young, but not exclusively. It was also predominantly white, but minorities were very well represented. Many held signs, some of them vulgar, denouncing a Trump Presidency. They chanted revolutionary slogans. All peacefully. It was, in a sense, a typical New York crowd.

Even before the assignment, I wondered what the protesters could possibly accomplish. Trump will be President. To not have it so is to invite anarchy. It cannot be. Yet, at the same time, it is not only understandable -people are angry and need to vent - it is also very American. We have a right to assemble and to express our voices. Violence, of course, is unacceptable. So, why?

Perhaps, the ultimate revolutionary hero and voice of, and for, the people, Che Quevara, said it best:

The world must not only be interpreted, it must be transformed. Man ceases to be the slave and tool of his environment and converts himself into the architect of his own destiny.



 "Notes for the Study of the Ideology of the Cuban", October 1960.

Today's MOZEN: No Surprise

Words and photo by F LoBuono

Where does one begin?

So much has been said already. Besides, quite frankly, I'm not sure WHAT to say. And, even if I did find the right words to sum up my feelings, it wouldn't make a bit of difference. Donald Trump IS the President-elect of these United States.

The results of last Tuesday's Presidential election has left much of the collective mouths of the Country AND world agape. Whether you supported Clinton or Trump, or, for that matter abhorred them, the resulting Trump victory came as a surprise to most.

Most, but not all.

There is one person that I know that was not surprised in the least - my mother, Stella. And, I wrote of it early on. At the very beginning of the campaign, I mentioned to her that it was shocking to me that despite Mr. Trump's hostility towards immigrants and minorities as well as his misogynistic tendencies, so many people were enamored with him. I understood the anger with the Washington status-quo, but couldn't understand how people saw him as a solution to that problem. Stella looked at me and nodded incredulously, "Frankie, many Americans, maybe even most, have secretly believed in the vitriol that comes out of his mouth: fear of foreigners and minorities. Distrust of anyone who may be different.  And, they have for a long time. They finally found someone with enough bluster to say it out loud".

She was right.

And, therein lies my heartbreak. It's not just that "the other party won". Every four years we go through this - at least half of the Country is pissed off at the other for having won the election. But, this time it seems different. It's not just that the other guy "won". It's the message that he used to win. The choice couldn't have been more clear. And, America choose Fear and Loathing over Reason and Compassion.

I suppose that it's fair to say that America was fed up with the Washington status-quo as represented by Ms. Clinton.  In fact, I was, too. So, I get that and I understand it to a degree. However, putting faith in a man whose message was one of division and, quite frankly, hate is more than just a little disturbing. And, we are starting to see the results of that message. Our Country remains terribly divided with no end really in sight. People have taken to the streets to express their displeasure with the election result. That will not change the outcome, but it can serve as a message to the new administration - we're mad as hell and we're not going to take it any more.

It is entirely reasonable to ask for time for Mr. Trump to implement the changes that he claims will "Make America Great Again". But, there is no time to support a message of hate, division, acrimony, and greed - ones that had been the hallmarks of his entire campaign. Until he understand that, I fear for us all . . .

Today's MOZEN: The People Have Spoken

Words and photo by F LoBuono

Extraordinary. From beginning to end, it was simply an extraordinary experience.

From Iowa, running through New Hampshire, Long Island, Ohio, Virginia, Las Vegas, and ultimately here in New York, it was my duty, honor, and privilege to have witnessed this most challenging and historic campaign season. It culminated in every way last night at the Jacob Javits Center in midtown Manhattan.

And, I was there to witness it.

Beginning yesterday afternoon, I arrived at the Javits to join my crewmates in covering Hillary Clinton's election nights headquarters that were being created there. The stage and evening's festivities were scheduled for the brilliant, all-glass main hall of the exhibition center. I had been there with the crew for the previous two days preparing for this night. I can testify that no expense was spared in staging the event. It was to be a spectacular affair. And, the metaphor of having the evening potentially culminate in the election of this Nation's first female President under a proverbial glass ceiling was not lost on the thousands of technicians, reporters, and news crews that were descending on the place. Bleachers were created to hold hundreds of rabid supporters who would attend. Huge press risers were created for the journalists and crews there to observe the festivities. It was planned to be a joyous celebration. And, in the beginning, it felt like one.

A few hours later, it turned out to me like a funeral.

Of course, until the polls closed everything being reported was pure speculation. Still, the excitement level in the hall was high. Quite frankly, based on most polls, the majority of journalists were at least expecting a Clinton victory. It was also a spectacular late fall day. So, light was pouring into the hall, bathing it in an almost ethereal light, affirming their expectations. But, as the light changed, so did the mood. It was palpable. Everyone, not only the reporters, but their support staff as well could FEEL things begin to slip away from Clinton. Darkness fell on the Javits - and the Clinton dream.

By the time we had loaded our last case on the truck to return our gear to our broadcast center, the dawn had barely broken. The metaphor of going from light to dark, back to light again was a profound experience for me, and, I expect, others. Not only reporters, but technicians and the like, sensed that a new day had clearly dawned - physically and metaphorically. The meaning of which is a post for another day.

After a grueling 17-hour work day, my body aches and my mind is on fire. The prospect of a future is uncertain at best. Perhaps, that's as it should be. The American process, for better or worse, has worked once again. As is our tradition, THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN. At least, that is our hope. . .

When You Think About It: You Have the Power

Words an photo by F LoBuono

It couldn't be more simple or direct. VOTE.

We've all heard the lame excuses: I hate them both. What difference can MY vote possibly mean? I had to work. The sun was in my eyes. And, blah, blah, blah. And, they all fall under the same category - BULLSHIT.

There are certainly things in life that are absolute: If you place your hand in a fire, you will get burnt. If you don't pay your taxes you will be arrested (unless you are Donald Trump). If you spit into the wind, you will get wet. And, IF YOU DON'T VOTE YOU DON'T HAVE A VOICE!!!!!

See? Simple and direct.

Choice, and the ability to express it is a beautiful thing. Makes you strong. ;)

VOTE

Today's MOSTLY TRUE SHORT STORY: Only in New York

Words and photo by F LoBuono

I had just completed my assignment at the Jacob Javits Center on 35th St. Since it was such a beautiful fall day, I decided to walk back to the Broadcast Center on 57th St. Striding at my usual brisk pace, I had reached 40th St. when I saw her out of the corner of my eye. She was well dressed, attractive, and appeared to be in her 30's. But, what really grabbed my attention was her unusual position: she was squatting on the sidewalk, shielding something with what appeared to be some type of folder.

Of course, this being New York, nothing is truly out of the ordinary. I continued, unaffected, with my sojourn. But, I was curious as to what it was that she was actually doing with that folder. So, as I was passing her, I glanced over my left shoulder to get a closer look. She was using it to protect a small, colorful bird, the likes of which I had never seen. The bird did not seem terribly hurt and, perhaps, had just stunned itself by flying into one of the glass windows of the building it was sitting next to. Whatever the case, the young woman was lending aide to a small, helpless creature in the middle of the Naked City.

What she could ultimately do for that helpless creature, or if it actually survived, I have no way of knowing. And, that's not what's important. What is so is that, in the middle of the insanity that can be New York, one person make the effort to aid another living being.

Yes. Only in New York. Indeed.

Today's MOZEN: Yes

photo: F LoBuono

I try all things. I accomplish what I can.

                              Capt. Ahab. Herman Melville. MOBY DICK; or The Whale.