Joan Rivers passed away this week. She was 81 but with plastic surgery she looked a lot younger albeit different.   I remember her signature catchphrases "Can we talk?" and "Grow up!" She broke ground for female comedians. Her quick comebacks, sharp wit and biting humor was never out of style.   She made millions on QVC, was on the Tonight Show 72 times, and kept reinventing herself. A true pioneer and a funny lady. She always made me laugh.   Did you find her funny?

Rather than having coffee or lunch dates I favor the 5 o'clock drink at the Friars Club.  Not only is the mood "lubricated" by alcohol, but many interesting folks wander into the Lucille Ball Bar to add to the cheer and mix. Last Thursday I met with two venerable Gotham members at the Friars and was surprised when neither ordered an alcoholic drink. I enjoyed my Patron on the rocks with a lime twist while they imbibed soft drinks. No matter how hard I pushed they refused to have an alcoholic beverage.

Like many others, we are back from an end-of-summer vacation. Last week, we were at one of our favorite places -- Martha’s Vineyard -- to which we have returned almost every summer for many, many years.   When we go to MV, there’s a “Happy Ferry” which takes you to the Vineyard and a “Sad Ferry” which takes you back to the mainland.  

Often I find inspiration in other people' blogs.   Last week, someone whose opinion I respect greatly, commented on my blog about my self-examination.  They succinctly and kindly commented, "You can't change who you are. And don't try to."  At every level, this is incredibly sweet and clearly a compliment...but leave it to me to find a new level.  ;)

I recently discovered Spotify and Pandora. I may be late to the game, but until now I was devoted to my itunes playlists.

Every year, on Labor Day, I labor to write a meaningful blog (pun intended). I am always cognizant, and hopeful, that my Gotham family is out enjoying the last days of summer. Therefore, if you choose to spend some of that precious time reading my blog, I have wanted to make it worth your time.

A number of people are at fault for the accidental shooting by the nine year old girl of her firing range instructor.  She is not among them.  The government however is, along with our crazed gun culture.  

Apple is just about to introduce some new stuff on September 9th which is very exciting. A new larger screen and possibly a wearable device.   But the more interesting news to me coming out of Apple is that they lowered the minimum age of developers that attend their developer conference from 18 to 13. That's right 13 years old. Right down the street from me a 14 year old young boy already has two apps he developed selling in the App Store.