Category: Architecture

Politics: The Chaos of DOGE

photo of the US capital aerial view
US Capital Building

The Chaos of DOGE

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How Elon Musk’s Obsession is Disrupting America’s Federal Workforce

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In recent years, Elon Musk’s fascination with Dogecoin (DOGE), the meme-inspired cryptocurrency, has transcended mere personal interest and begun to ripple into unexpected areas—including America’s federal workforce. What started as a series of playful tweets has evolved into a disruptive force, creating chaos for federal employees and raising questions about the intersection of cryptocurrency, corporate influence, and government operations. This chaos reached a boiling point recently when 21 employees at SpaceX, one of Musk’s companies, quit their jobs, citing concerns over his erratic behavior and the growing influence of DOGE on their work environment.

The trouble began when Musk, a self-proclaimed “Dogefather,” started using his massive social media platform to promote DOGE. His tweets, often cryptic and humorous, have caused wild fluctuations in the cryptocurrency’s value. While this has been a boon for some investors, it has created a volatile environment for businesses and employees tied to Musk’s ventures. Federal employees, particularly those working on contracts with SpaceX, have found themselves caught in the crossfire. SpaceX is a major contractor for NASA and the Department of Defense, and its operations are critical to national security and space exploration. However, Musk’s preoccupation with DOGE has reportedly led to distractions, shifting priorities, and a lack of focus on mission-critical projects.

The recent exodus of 21 SpaceX employees highlights the growing frustration among workers. According to reports, these employees left due to Musk’s increasing focus on DOGE and his unpredictable management style. Many felt that his obsession with the cryptocurrency was diverting attention and resources away from SpaceX’s core objectives. One former employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the work environment as “chaotic and unsustainable,” with Musk frequently pushing for DOGE-related initiatives that seemed disconnected from the company’s mission. This sentiment was echoed by others, who expressed concerns about the long-term impact on SpaceX’s reputation and its ability to fulfill its obligations to federal agencies.

The fallout from this situation extends beyond SpaceX. Federal employees working on joint projects with the company have reported delays and disruptions, as Musk’s focus on DOGE has led to missed deadlines and shifting priorities. This has created tension between SpaceX and its government partners, with some officials questioning whether the company can maintain its commitment to critical national projects.

The chaos caused by DOGE also raises broader questions about the influence of cryptocurrency on traditional industries and government operations. While cryptocurrencies like DOGE offer exciting possibilities, their volatile nature and the cult-like following they inspire can lead to instability, particularly when influential figures like Musk champion them. For federal employees, whose work often depends on stability and predictability, this unpredictability is deeply unsettling.

In the end, the DOGE saga serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of allowing personal passions to overshadow professional responsibilities. As Musk continues to navigate his dual roles as a tech visionary and a cryptocurrency evangelist, the challenge will be to balance his ambitions with the needs of his employees and the federal agencies that rely on his companies. Until then, the chaos caused by DOGE is likely to persist, leaving federal employees and the public to wonder what the future holds.

Gina Iannece: On Grief and Hope

Glamorous Woman at a beautiful castle looking sad and sorrowful
Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2025

Text by Gina Ianneci, Copyright 2025

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On Grief and Hope

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Model: Gina Ianneci

Photo: Tony Ward

Stylist: KVaughn

Hair & Makeup: Michael Connor

Lighting Grip: Anthony Colagreco

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Throughout my life, I’ve faced traumatic experiences that I can easily recall, along with the memories and associated emotions. 

For better or worse, these experiences are a part of me. The biggest one for me will always be the loss of my
brother, who was just 21 years old when he fell asleep and crashed his car on the NJ Turnpike. At this moment
Tony captured me, I was thinking about my brother and this ten-year-old video I found last year on YouTube.

In the video clip the actor Billy Bob Thornton shares his experience of losing his brother. He explains how this
loss has profoundly affected his outlook on life, leaving him with a persistent feeling of melancholy. Thornton
mentions that he never fully trusts happiness and often feels 50% happy and 50% sad. He advises people who
have lost a loved one to accept their feelings and honor them through their work or art. He emphasizes that
one never truly gets over such a loss but can learn to live with the pain and use it as a source of inspiration. I
relate deeply to his perspective and how he articulates his feelings.

 https://youtu.be/4Pn3y7S5FAw

Woman wearing ancient battle armor with messy hair in front of an old castle
The Warrior. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2025

To access additional articles by Gina Iannece, link here: https://tonyward.com/feature-gina-iannece-meeting-the-moment/

Great Locations: History of Fonthill Castle

STYLISH woman seated in the yard at Font Hill Castle in Doylestown Pa.
Glamour at Fonthill. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2025

History of Fonthill Castle

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Model: Gina Iannece

Photo: Tony Ward

Stylist: KVaughn

Hair & Makeup: Michael Connor

Lighting Grip: Anthony Colagreco

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Nestled in the heart of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Fonthill Castle stands as a testament to the creativity and vision of one of America’s most eccentric and influential figures, Henry Chapman Mercer. Built between 1908 and 1912, this unique structure is not a traditional castle in the medieval sense but rather a sprawling, concrete mansion that reflects Mercer’s passion for history, art, and innovation.

Henry Chapman Mercer (1856–1930) was an archaeologist, anthropologist, and tile-maker who sought to preserve the craftsmanship of the pre-industrial era. Disillusioned by the rapid industrialization of the late 19th century, Mercer dedicated his life to creating works that celebrated handmade artistry. Fonthill Castle was his personal residence and a canvas for his artistic expression. The castle’s design is a whimsical blend of Gothic, Medieval, and Byzantine architectural styles, featuring 44 rooms, 18 fireplaces, and over 200 windows, each uniquely shaped and placed.

The construction of Fonthill Castle was groundbreaking for its time. Mercer insisted on using reinforced concrete, a relatively new material in the early 20th century, to create a durable and fireproof structure. The castle’s interior is adorned with Mercer’s handmade tiles, which depict historical scenes, literary quotes, and personal motifs. Every corner of the castle tells a story, from the intricate tilework to the hand-carved wooden furniture.

Fonthill Castle was more than just a home; it was a living museum. Mercer filled the space with his vast collection of artifacts, including prints, books, and tiles, which he used to educate visitors about history and craftsmanship. He often hosted guests, offering them tours of his eclectic creation and sharing his passion for preserving the past.

After Mercer’s death in 1930, Fonthill Castle was bequeathed to the Bucks County Historical Society, which continues to maintain and operate the site as a museum. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s labyrinthine halls, marvel at its artistic details, and gain insight into Mercer’s remarkable life and legacy.

Fonthill Castle remains a beloved landmark in Doylestown, attracting thousands of visitors each year. It stands as a symbol of Mercer’s dedication to art, history, and innovation, offering a glimpse into the mind of a man who dared to dream differently. The castle’s enduring charm and historical significance ensure that Mercer’s vision will continue to inspire future generations.

Glamorous woman on the grounds of Fonthill Castle
Gina at Fonthill. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2025

From Palace to Circus Tent: The Trumpian Odyssey and the Turkish Proverb

AI generated image of Mar-a-Lago.
AI generated illustration of Mar-a-Lago.

Text by ChatGBT

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Illustration by Dall-E

In the annals of political history, the rise and fall of leaders often mirror the wisdom encapsulated in ancient proverbs. The Turkish proverb, “When a clown moves into a palace, the clown doesn’t become a king. The palace turns into a circus,” seems eerily prophetic in the context of the tumultuous tenure of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States. This essay aims to dissect the applicability of this age-old adage to Trump’s presidency, marked by controversy, division, and a unique blend of political showmanship.

The Clown in the Palace:

Donald Trump’s entry into the political arena was unconventional, to say the least. A businessman and reality TV star, his campaign rhetoric and demeanor stood in stark contrast to the polished and measured approach traditionally associated with presidential candidates. As the proverb suggests, Trump did not transform into a conventional “king” upon assuming office. Instead, the White House witnessed an unprecedented transformation into a political circus, replete with sensationalism, bombastic tweets, and an unapologetic disregard for established norms.

The Circus Unleashed:

From the outset, Trump’s presidency bore the hallmarks of a spectacle. His unfiltered communication style on social media became a defining feature, often overshadowing policy discussions. Tweets served as his preferred mode of communication, bypassing traditional channels and capturing the attention of both supporters and detractors alike. The White House, once a symbol of gravitas and diplomacy, transformed into a stage for a reality TV show where the leader of the free world played the role of a provocateur-in-chief.

One of the key aspects of the proverb is the idea that the clown does not become a king. In Trump’s case, his presidency was characterized by an unconventional and often chaotic leadership style. Rather than conforming to the traditional image of a presidential figure, he reveled in disruption, upending established norms in favor of a more confrontational approach. The result was a divided nation, where supporters lauded his authenticity, while critics decried his lack of decorum and diplomatic finesse.

The Palace in Disarray:

The Turkish proverb also implies that the palace, once a symbol of order and authority, descends into chaos with the entry of the clown. In the case of Trump, the chaos manifested in numerous ways. His administration witnessed high-profile resignations, internal power struggles, and a revolving door of key personnel. Policy decisions often seemed impulsive, driven more by the president’s whims than a coherent long-term strategy.

The circus atmosphere extended beyond the confines of the White House, permeating international relations and diplomatic engagements. Traditional alliances were tested, and global institutions were treated with skepticism. The palace, which once stood as a beacon of stability, found itself navigating treacherous waters as the circus of Trumpian politics unfolded on the global stage.

Impeachment and Legal Challenges:

The proverb’s reference to a clown moving into a palace not becoming a king finds resonance in the context of Trump’s impeachment proceedings. Impeached twice by the House of Representatives, Trump faced accusations of abuse of power, obstruction of Congress, and incitement of insurrection. The impeachment trials, while not resulting in conviction, underscored the tumultuous nature of his presidency and the erosion of the traditional dignity associated with the presidential office.

The legal challenges did not end with impeachment. The proverb’s allusion to a clown in the palace turning it into a circus is further exemplified by the numerous legal battles Trump faced post-presidency. From tax evasion investigations to allegations of financial misconduct, the former president found himself entangled in legal troubles, reinforcing the perception of a leader who, far from becoming a king, left a trail of legal controversies in his wake.

The Legacy of the Circus:

As the Trump era came to a close, the aftermath revealed a nation deeply divided and a political landscape forever altered. The proverb’s warning against the transformation of a palace into a circus serves as a cautionary tale for future leaders and citizens alike. The circus atmosphere introduced during Trump’s presidency left an indelible mark on American politics, raising questions about the durability of democratic institutions and the role of personality in shaping political discourse.

The Turkish proverb encapsulates the idea that the entrance of a clown into a position of power does not elevate the clown but rather transforms the once-stately palace into a circus. In the case of Donald Trump, his presidency challenged established norms, reshaped political discourse, and left a lasting impact on the American political landscape. Whether viewed through the lens of impeachment, legal challenges, or the divisive rhetoric that characterized his time in office, the Turkish proverb offers a poignant reflection on the Trumpian odyssey and its implications for the future of American democracy.

Joel Levinson: Behind The Scenes


Text by Joel Levinson, Copyright 2023

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Behind  The Scenes

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I FELT LIKE I was Marcello Mastroianni walking onto the film set for La Dolce Vita; a colorful cast of characters assembled in slightly exotic circumstances later than scheduled. The Dolce Vita feeling stayed with me, even intensified, as the afternoon progressed.

Tony had invited me to be a BTS (behind the scenes) photographer and I did my best to remain behind the scenes. It was his project and he had a specific vision of what was going to happen, in what order. So…in that context I knew I was merely a passive participant. I had once before shot in another photographer’s studio. On that occasion, it was my show with the model. But on this day, I happily marched to Tony’s drumbeats.

I have almost always photographed with natural light, not studio lights. My eye has been trained over many decades to see the results in advance…that is to say when I deem the daylight just right. Fortunately, there were several occasions through the day to shoot in natural light…in the studio, in his house, and in the garden that separated house from garden. In those moments, between setups, when I knew I didn’t have to be behind the scenes , I was free to pick my subjects and my moments to click the shutter. Not unusual, I shot things that were totally unrelated to the goal of the day. During the shoot, I kept wishing the studio had skylights but that isn’t Tony’s artistic MO.

One of my goals was to capture Tony at work…Tony in his element. It didn’t sink in when Tony invited me to the Dolce Vita event that there would be an artistic director. But first to arrive was KVaughn, a force unto himself; high energy, purpose-driven, stylish in his attire, and from my perspective, the most photogenic character in the studio and on the property. He was OK with me taking a few snaps when he was sitting near me on two occasions, when the daylight struck me as just right. He insisted on always having his glasses on…and he won out…most of the time.

Tony, dressed like he was on vacation but worked with focus…he worked like he was on anything but vacation. He was a pro through and through. I stayed out of the way, mostly behind him as he moved about. Sometimes he was up on a low stool to explore an alternative perspective. He seemed to be in three places at once.

Frankly, I went hoping to see some skin, but I saw less skin on this shoot than in a shopping center. I like shooting nudes (a great challenge to do well), but today the goal was otherwise. Ellen Tiberino, Tony’s subject, has a face that for me, was not easy to capture in studio lighting. When she sat down for a few minutes in the soft up light of a make-up counter, I saw what I was after in reflections of her in the makeup counter’s mirror. She was not aware, at the counter, that I was shooting (happily so…because I do best with candid shots), but at one point, I let on what I was doing and she willingly responded. Those mirror shots were some of my best ones of Ellen.

I also took a few candid shots of Tracey Olkus as she applied makeup or tweaked a few hairs on Ellen’s brow or around her shoulders. Regrettably, I took no separate shots of  Sam Binder as he did Tony’s bidding with the lights, the hand-held diffusing scrim, and the backdrop behind Ellen.

After the session, it was great to sit at a table under roof with everyone for a late but tasty lunch. We all relaxed and became old friends. The only person missing was La Dolce Vita’s director Federico Fellini.

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Portrait of architect and photographer Joel Levinson
Joel Levinson. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2023

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About The Author: Joel Levinson is a veteran architect and photographer based in Philadelphia. Joel is currently working on a book of his photographs. This is his first contribution to TWS.