Leica Store SoHo in NYC Looted

[Huss]

Thank you for that thoughtful insight SJones.

 

[jsrockit]

Also, just to note, opposing racism isn’t the act of a social justice warrior or PC-virtue signaling-beta; it’s the act of a decent human. This isn’t politics, it’s fundamental morals.

Bravo. Unfortunately, half the country doesn't feel this way... and splitting up the country won't solve it.

 

[stompyq]

For everyone living in NYC and planning to photograph especially after 6.00pm PLEASE BE CAREFUL. A friend of mine who lives on W100 st sent me pics of a delivery man who was just riding by the protesters get pulled down, assaulted and dragged away by cops. Of course, he was black. My friend was out walking in the park and snapped pics using his cell phone. He was yelled at to stop and move away. Habeas Corpus is also suspended in NYC by a judge at the request of NYPD. If you don't know, that means you can be arrested without criminal charges and detained longer than 24hrs by NYPD. Think twice before you do streetphotography (especially if you are black/brown) around NYPD. They are on edge and itching to flex

 

[stompyq]

As if you couldn`t possibly afford a Leica? I used to deal with this when I bought my first Leica...I was 20. The stores wouldn`t even let me hold the camera in my hands. B&H (when it was on 17th St) actually was nice to me... probably why they still exist and have grown.

Yeah, that's exactly the look they gave me. There is absolutely no way I would spend even a cent at that store. The only reason I went the second time was because my friend dragged me inside. I'd much rather spend my money at B&H.

 

[Ko.Fe.]

What do you mean by that? The human rights situation in China is worse than in the US, so no "social warrior"-dom is appropriate here?
Would you mind spelling out for us what difference a murder victim's criminal record makes in your opinion?

I could see bunch of tiny police officers and huge guy. Court will decide if they get him to this stage or he was doing it on himself. As far as I know he was reported, by medicals, to be on drugs.
The guy has records of been violent. Police might know it during arrest.
It could be charge of murder due to mishandling.
Think about it. If it is troubled area and if no blacks are willing to police, it could be hard to find appropriate ones.
Before polit correctness took over, first demand for police officers in Toronto was to be tall. Now they are trying to match ethnicity of police and area. Not a bad thing. I see it to be appropriate. Black area, black police. Community could only solve its problems by themselves.

 

[fireblade]

America and violence are so historically intertwined, almost every aspect of freedom we enjoy (at least conditionally) required some form of violence or civil disobedience. Independence: civil disobedience and violence; Emancipation: violence, tons of it; Labor rights (fair wages, child labor laws, weekends, eight-hour days): civil disobedience and a lot more violence than most Americans realize; Universal Suffrage: civil disobedience; Civil Rights: violence against demonstrators and civil disobediance (African Americans violated segregation laws).

And over the decades, let’s not forget all the innocent civilians we’ve killed overseas in the righteous cause of freedom and democracy.

But just as we are steeped in violence, so are we steeped in racism. The complexities and history of this are, of course, complicated, but the American identity, when defined, cannot be divorced from racism. And the devaluation of the black body is as prominent today as it was a century ago.

To be sure, America has witnessed watershed moments of progress, not the least of which include an African American president. However, these advancements occurred largely because of a political tug-a-war between two sociocultural factions that have remained divided since before the nation’s founding---this current polarization is actually centuries-old. These divisions can be loosely traced along geographic demarcations, with exceptions and fluctuations duly noted.

So while progress has been made, setbacks are still possible, as evidenced by the counter-reaction ascendency of our current president, who won not in spite of his blatant bigotry but because of it.

Yet, no matter which party occupies the White House, systemic racism has remained constant, and this month’s outburst reflects not months, not years, not decades, but centuries of abuse, marginalization, and dehumanization. If Jews in Germany had rioted violently in, say, 1936, would we be berating them; judging them?

“But that’s different…and you’re going Godwin all over us, and…” Really? We only think it’s different because we have hindsight of where the Nazi experiment ultimately led. Hitler joined the Nazi party nearly two decades before its military went into Poland. And yes, our president is a fascist; I say this in an academic sense, given my educational and occupational background in political theory and science.

And let’s not forget that when prominent African Americans tried to protests peacefully, our bigoted president called them “son-of-a-bitches.” So when people call for peaceful protests (not a bad thing) yet while also attempting to switch the narrative to looters, then we’re confronting a detractive process of silencing: Yes, demonstrate, but do so in a manner that can altogether be ignored. Meanwhile, SOME of these same people calling for genuflecting obedience remain silent or perhaps even supportive of that drone strike that just killed four Muslim children---but our security vindicates it, right?

A decade back, I recall writing about a dispute between a driver and a toll operator that escalated into a destructive riot reportedly involving roughly 10,000 people. That number might be high, but needless to say, significant unrest occurred disproportionate to the trigger. This occurred in southeast China. Now, I could have shamed the demonstrators for their self-destructive behavior, but I thought it might be, for analytical purposes, better to study the underlying social tensions that fueled the disturbance. After all, numerous other demonstrations, often equally volatile, were springing up across the country.

I would like to think that when people riot in this country, we should strive to address the root problem rather than just yell admonishments. I get it; I live just a few blocks south of Central Camera; I was in the midst of it, and it was unnerving. But if I would like to avoid future disorder, the best route is to grapple with factors inciting such social discontent. This is a remarkably difficult task given that a sizeable portion of white Americans actually believe they face more discrimination than their black compatriots. Reality has become an increasingly rare commodity in certain quarters.

But as long as racism and violence remain core characteristics of America, then expect more of the same---we have only ourselves to blame; that is, we reap what we sow.

Also, just to note, opposing racism isn’t the act of a social justice warrior or PC-virtue signaling-beta; it’s the act of a decent human. This isn’t politics, it’s fundamental morals.

Suggested Reads:
“How to Become Antiracist” by Ibram X Kendi
“We Were Eight Years In Power” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
“White Identity Politics” by Ashley Jardina
The Origins of Totalitarianism” by Hannah Arendt

Also, reread Trevor Noah’s words as posted by Keytarjunkie, or track down the video clip.

And if you haven’t already, give photographer Gordon Parks a look.

I’m out; circuitous debates aren’t my thing; and really, I advocate splitting up the United States, so you know where my hope stands. Have a fun weekend!

Best post on the subject.
Highlighted Red is the total answer to all life.

 

[Calzone]

My feeling is that the guys at the NYC Leica store are somewhat snobby. Your never quite good enough for them, I just don't quite get it. It's like your caught in the middle, your just some schmuck that has the money to buy Leica, but like some people here on RFF the fact your buying or interested make you suspect, cause your just trying to buy talent.

But if your buying Leica as a luxury item holy-cow you should hear them talk about you behind your back, I have...

Back to the looting I hope they were smart and removed their inventory, face it you could likely load their whole inventory into a single SUV.

But on the flip side they do like Cal 😉

Joe

Joe,

Even though I'm a bit of a Hose-Bag, I always get VIP treatment for some unknown reason.

There was a Paul Smith sample sale going on. "Maggie" tried to be helpful and said she would hold my SL with 50 Lux, but this was a mistake because she lost my lens cap, which costs $82.00 to replace. I bought a bunch of Paul Smith, and then proceeded to the Leica Store in SoHo to buy a replacement lens cap, they were out of stock, but before I left Craig pulled a lens cap off a display model and gifted it to me.

I know this bothers John and Pro-Mone. One time in Adorama John was scolded not touch a camera that Angel in the used department was showing me.

John's mistake was just that he was standing next to me. LOL.

It was like in the scene from the film "This is Spinal Tap" where this journalist was told by the guitarist not to even look at the guitar. No doubt this was rude. Mucho rude and insulting.

As soon as I walk in the store it seems that Angel seeks me out and pulls out some rare piece of gear to entertain me.

At B&H in the used department it seems like I draw crowds. The salesman ask me to step aside so they can work on other customers. While Louis Mendez often sets up space outside B&H, I actually can have spontanious meet-ups at the B&H used counter.

Don't tell Pro-Mone or John because this greatly annoys them. LOL.

Cal

 

[Calzone]

Haha so true Joe... but don’t we all!? Regarding the judgmental behavior, I have been there myself... but I try to remind myself that it’s not my wallet and that you don’t have to be good at something to enjoy it. I used to spend a lot of $ on musical equipment and I never got past the still horrible stage.

John,

My rich brother at one time you might of mistaken as a homeless person. I know of one guy I knew who told me a story that he walked into a dealership to buy a new Corvette after getting out of the military.

The salesman blew him off and said, "Kid come back when you have the money."

Bob then showed him the cash and said, "My money is good elsewhere."

Cal

 

[jsrockit]

Don't tell Pro-Mone or John because this greatly annoys them. LOL.

Cal

I miss your antics Cal... and better you than me getting harassed by b&h!

 

[Calzone]

I miss your antics Cal... and better you than me getting harassed by b&h!

John,

One of my personality traits is that I annoy people it seems.

All I can say is "I'm just minding my own business."

I think you will be deeply impressed with the books of prints I'm creating. My new "Book of Proofs" uses 17x24 sheets as pages and makes the "Monster Book" seem small (only 17x22 inch sheets). The new Book of Proofs will be a one-off art book and is meant as an "estate piece" meaning property of the artist.

The "Monster book" was only a developmental work. It seems like I have what will be called one day "Salgado Disease."

Mucho impressive.

Some guy who took a Polaroid of me and then gave me the print said that I reminded him of Joel Meyerwitz one of his friends. Since you knew Joel Meyerwitz is this true?

This was at one of my meet-ups at B&H. Sometimes I feel like I'm a walking tourist attraction. LOL.

Also know that all my anti social behavior allows me to concentrate on my printing. Been putting in 12 hour days, but my printing area is a lot like living in a submarine. My wealthy brother served on a nuclear attack sub, and he said the only limitation for a tour (6 months) was they would run out of food and would have to restock.

Upon sailing the halls and every available space was loaded with gallon cans of food. They would have to crouch and they would literally have to walk on tops of cases of gallon cans of food.

My printing studio is that full. Mucho crazy, and I mean crazy is good. I loaded up some of my 24x36 "work prints" into a museum box. Big prints don't lie. I have grown a lot since you moved away. The past few years I have not been shooting for myself, and more or less I concentrated on printing more than shooting after you left.

Cal

 

[jszokoli]

Joe,

Even though I'm a bit of a Hose-Bag, I always get VIP treatment for some unknown reason.

There was a Paul Smith sample sale going on. "Maggie" tried to be helpful and said she would hold my SL with 50 Lux, but this was a mistake because she lost my lens cap, which costs $82.00 to replace. I bought a bunch of Paul Smith, and then proceeded to the Leica Store in SoHo to buy a replacement lens cap, they were out of stock, but before I left Craig pulled a lens cap off a display model and gifted it to me.

I know this bothers John and Pro-Mone. One time in Adorama John was scolded not touch a camera that Angel in the used department was showing me.

John's mistake was just that he was standing next to me. LOL.

It was like in the scene from the film "This is Spinal Tap" where this journalist was told by the guitarist not to even look at the guitar. No doubt this was rude. Mucho rude and insulting.

As soon as I walk in the store it seems that Angel seeks me out and pulls out some rare piece of gear to entertain me.

At B&H in the used department it seems like I draw crowds. The salesman ask me to step aside so they can work on other customers. While Louis Mendez often sets up space outside B&H, I actually can have spontanious meet-ups at the B&H used counter.

Don't tell Pro-Mone or John because this greatly annoys them. LOL.

Cal

Glad to see your back at work and where you have time to post🙄...
Joe

 

[MrFujicaman]

John,

My rich brother at one time you might of mistaken as a homeless person. I know of one guy I knew who told me a story that he walked into a dealership to buy a new Corvette after getting out of the military.

The salesman blew him off and said, "Kid come back when you have the money."

Bob then showed him the cash and said, "My money is good elsewhere."

Cal

I had a dealer at a camera show pull that on me. I picked up a Kiev-5 and he started screaming "you got money to buy it!". I got pissed and pulled the $750 in 5, 10's and 20's I'd brought with me and told him, " See this? You're not getting any of it!" I just walked off and left him there with his mouth hanging open.

 

[Calzone]

Glad to see your back at work and where you have time to post🙄...
Joe

Joe,

Like Wee-Gee I am a loner at heart, and pretty much "Calzone" is just a persona.

Meanwhile my celeb gal "Maggie" is sick of being a public figure.

I have been more or less on paid leave since March 18th, Monday mornings to go online and catch up on market newsletters I get spammed with.

Almost three months to drive myself crazy with obsessive behavior. The usual: bicycles; fitness; cameras; printing; guitars; and amps.

Kinda funny how I'm only running low on my spinach pasta I stockpiled when on sale. Pretty much only after almost three months of lock down and I have not yet depleted my stockpile.

Maggie says she will never-ever make fun of my hoarding ever again. Pretty much a habit left over as a mark of poverty.

So for the almost three months it has been like as if I'm retired. No schedule or routine, but I'm deeply reminded of when I was in art school and pretty much did whatever I wanted, was totally relaxed, and it was as if like living in a daydream, except for the sad developments, the news, the lack of leadership, and all the confusion and chaos of the outside world.

In other words I lived in my own little universe that was very much like living in a bubble. Not the real world, but a world of my imagination that is mucho peaceful and fruitful.

Did you know that my photographic skills spill over into cooking. Much of the same skill set is used. "I'm so clever," I say. LOL.

For Maggie's blog we mostly shot indoors in our apartment. Mucho crazy, but some cool stuff. One was for Brooklinen. Maggie order some white towels and draped then into a stylish outfit. Mucho creative and fun.

Then there is printing mania. I trashed years worth of prints tearing up perhaps 60-70 pounds of prints, enough to fill perhaps a thirty gallon industrial garbage bag full of torn prints. It seems all this early work I deem as not my best, and know that my skills as a printer has advanced in a quadratic leap. The new prints are more like sculptures because of the depth, details, and tonality.

No remorse here: I'm moving forward. If you thought I was a good printer 4 months ago, you can see a vast difference.

I have teased out that large format look in even small 8 1/2 x11's. Printing is now like learning deadly Kung-Fu moves as reflexes. I really dug into learning new techniques and approaches for black people, difficult lighting, and high contrast subjects.

It has been like art school all over again except for all my whoring around with crazy women that I did back then.

Lockdown was a good experience for me.

Cal

 

[Calzone]

I had a dealer at a camera show pull that on me. I picked up a Kiev-5 and he started screaming "you got money to buy it!". I got pissed and pulled the $750 in 5, 10's and 20's I'd brought with me and told him, " See this? You're not getting any of it!" I just walked off and left him there with his mouth hanging open.

MFM,

Some people never learn not to make judgements.

Cal

 

[ChrisPlatt]

During one summer vacation in high school (late 1970's) a friend was looking for a 35mm SLR.
Once I accompanied him on a visit to one of the many Manhattan photo clip-joints, er, retailers.
None of the salesmen would give him the time of day. He was wearing gym shorts without pockets.

Chris

 

[Agiknee]

I could see bunch of tiny police officers and huge guy. Court will decide if they get him to this stage or he was doing it on himself. As far as I know he was reported, by medicals, to be on drugs.
The guy has records of been violent. Police might know it during arrest.
It could be charge of murder due to mishandling.
Think about it. If it is troubled area and if no blacks are willing to police, it could be hard to find appropriate ones.
Before polit correctness took over, first demand for police officers in Toronto was to be tall. Now they are trying to match ethnicity of police and area. Not a bad thing. I see it to be appropriate. Black area, black police. Community could only solve its problems by themselves.

You just made all that up didn’t you?

 

[Huss]

And here we have video of cops slashing tyres on parked cars, thinking it's funny

https://www.yahoo.com/autos/minneapolis-police-shown-video-slashing-224400550.html

Victims at both locations included credentialed press, including a Star Tribune reporter, some of whom uploaded video of the aftermath to Twitter, such as ex-Buzzfeed video exec and documentary producer Andrew Kimmel. He said he's been to more than 100 protests in the past few years as part of his work, and has "never seen the tire slashing before, particularly in a parking lot." Another was New Yorker magazine reporter Luke Mogelson, who said an officer took a photo of his press pass and promised to alert other police not to touch his car. Mogelson returned to four flat tires and officers who "were laughing. ... They had grins on their faces."

 

[Emile de Leon]

Problem with the cops is..
They make a ton of money for the govnt just being cops...
Billions for the prison system..the courts..lawyers..speeding tickets... yada yada..you name it..its really infinite..
All makin big dough..off of corruption..and public beat downs..and killing..
And all at the taxpayers expense..
This puts them in the position to make all of us their.."cash cows"..
Not a position we really want to be in..
And once this happens..nothing much is gonna change...no matter how much you protest..
Too much cashola to be "procured"
Its been like this for a hundred years..maybe more..

A Russian guy transplanted here said..you guys are funny..in my country you protest..and get thrown in the gulag..or killed..
Here in America.. they let you protest to your hearts content..and then they just ..ignore you..and laugh..all the way to the bank..
So nothing gets done..

Cops..
The other thing is..we..are the enemy to them..
I'm generalizing here..but thats the way they look at us..esp if black..or minority..
And since 9/11..its only gotten more out of hand..
They took advantage of that..as they are doing today..
But..
When the protests wind down.. as they will..
Not much is going to change..it will be back to "normal"..
And milking the "cows" ..will continue as before..
And that will be that..
The only way I see things changing is if there is a complete upending of society..perhaps via pandemic..as well as fighting & unrelenting protesting..
And maybe..if we are very lucky..the politicians..will actually do something about it..
The other way would be Gandhi-esque..
Non violent protest..
Shut down the entire system..hit em where it hurts..in their pocketbooks..
Workers..not showing up to work..
Taxpayers..not payin taxes..
Shut down the entire system..until they relent..
You have to be prepared to pay a big price for this..

 

[Huss]

Well, as long as the cops don't just seize your stuff and keep it for themselves.

Oh wait...

https://youtu.be/EP88_mNK3-U

 

[jarski]

Am living in Thailand, where the police force has reputation of being notoriously corrupt and ham-handed. And yet I would choose them any time over masked rioter or looter.