Absolutely

I was recently at the Barnes and Noble Bookstore at 8th Street and 6th Avenue on the second floor, some minutes before closing. A woman, somewhat harried, was looking for a book - something along the lines of "How to Talk to a Republican." She was apparently involved with one and distressed about the prospects. Standing next to her was Whoopi Goldberg, to whom she asked rather frantically: "Can I date a Republican?"
One of the greatest pleasures of being in this city are the talents and surprises lurking around corners. I try to make no assumptions about people based on appearance. Talent comes in many flavors here - there are the occasional obviously well known figures, some that just look the part and others travel who incognito. See my story Only in New York.

I recently stopped into the Guitar Center on 14th Street with a friend who was unfamiliar with the place. My tour included a room I had never entered which was filled with DJ gear. Three latino men were playing with a CD player with a pressure sensitive scratch disc interfaced with an iMac. The equipment allows the manipulation of digital media much as vinyl lps. Fascinated I watched them test the gear. I took some overhead "hail marys"* and got a few acceptable photos.
They appeared to be friendly, so I introduced myself with a New York Daily Photo business card. I learned that two were professional DJs, Juan and Albert. Juan Pablo was from Cuenca, Ecuador. I told him I would feature them on this website. As I wandered the store, Albert caught up with me to give me his card.
And Whoopi's response to "Can I date a Republican?" She answered without hesitation or equivocation: "Absolutely!"

* Hail Marys are photos taken blind, without using the viewfinder, typically overhead. The term "hail mary" is used owing to the idea a prayer is needed to get a good photo.

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