I learned how to sign because when I was growing up in California in order to get into college you needed two semesters of language to get into a University of California school.

When I meet large women who walk with confidence and are articulate and really have an understanding of how they walk in this world, I love them so deeply for being able to overcome such unbelievable odds.

One of my earliest memories is of my father carrying me in one arm with a picket sign in the other.

I placed over a thousand deaf people in jobs throughout my career working for the deaf.

My mom had five kids. And she came home after working three jobs, and I'd rub her feet. We'd all rub her feet. We were lucky to get any time with her.

I grew up in a bookish family, so I read very widely. I was omnivorous, really.

The high spot of my day has always been getting home to have my dinner with my family. It still is: to have my dinner with Helen. It's a cocktail and dinner. I know I'm a tired old geezer, but there you are.

I get along great with my family. My parents are really proud of me and my brother, who's a chef here in New York. I don't see my parents often, but they're very supportive, especially as I get older.