When you walk into a hotel room, your eye might catch the elegant strip of fabric stretched across the bed’s foot. At first, it seems purely decorative—but that bed runner serves a bigger purpose.
More than style, it protects the crisp white linens beneath. Guests often eat, drink, or lounge on the bed—accidents happen. The runner absorbs crumbs, spills, and smudges, saving sheets and reducing laundry work for housekeeping. It’s also a barrier against the dirt our belongings carry. When we toss bags, coats, or shoes onto the bed, … Read more
Tom Lehrer, the legendary singer-songwriter and satirist, has passed away at 97 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on July 26.
His friend David Herder confirmed the news, though no cause of death was shared. Born in 1928 in New York City, Lehrer was a prodigy who entered Harvard at 15 to study mathematics. While pursuing academics, he began writing witty, darkly humorous songs tackling politics, religion, and everyday absurdities. His 1953 self-released debut album Songs … Read more
Shooter in Midtown NYC Tragedy Linked to Mental Health, CTE Fears Shane Tamura, 27, of Las Vegas, has been identified as the gunman in the July 28, 2025
Midtown Manhattan shooting that killed four people, including off-duty NYPD Officer Didarul Islam. Once a promising high school athlete, Tamura’s life veered off track after graduation, leading to a casino job and declining mental health. Authorities say Tamura drove cross-country, parked near 345 Park Avenue, and entered the building alone before the fatal rampage. He … Read more
I never expected a trip to Walmart to turn into a confrontation over my wheelchair. While browsing, a man blocked my path and demanded I give up my chair for his “tired” wife. He claimed I was “young” and didn’t need it. I explained I rely on it to move—but he accused me of faking … Read more
His voice grew louder, attracting attention. Thankfully, an employee named Miguel stepped in. Calmly, he told the man that mobility aids aren’t shared or taken. Still angry, the man argued—only to trip over a canned goods display and fall. Twice. His wife, clearly embarrassed, apologized and helped him leave. Miguel checked on me and even … Read more
A tragic shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan claimed four lives on July 28, including Wesley LePatner, a senior managing director at Blackstone, and NYPD Officer Didarul Islam.
The 27-year-old gunman opened fire during the evening rush before dying by suicide. A note found at the scene referenced personal grievances and possible mental health issues; the motive remains under investigation. LePatner, 43, was a respected leader and advocate for women in finance. Her death deeply shook the Wall Street community, with Blackstone calling … Read more