Since we’re all aware of Jay’s brilliance as a photographer, teacher and mentor, I think that this is probably the time and place to share some personal observations and feelings about him:

I’ve known Jay for over thirty years and he’s always been more like the older brother I never had… occasionally giving me advice and constantly giving me shit.

At age 80, he looks 50 and acts 30.

He admits to a “slight” hearing loss, although in a conversation with him, every other word is, “WHAT?”

He’s the dream consumer for Costco and Walmart in that he never buys just one of anything! (That includes everything from toilet paper to cameras!)

Going out to eat with Jay can be hazardous. He has an enormous appetite and God help you if you are within reaching distance of his fork with food on your plate.

Thanks to Jay, my kids, think that the word “fuck” can be used as a noun, a verb, an adjective, an adverb, etc.

As most of you know, Jay’s voice has an uncanny resemblance to Marlon Brando’s. Every year on January 18th, I call Jay to wish him a happy birthday. Usually he’s partially surprised I remembered (and partially annoyed I remembered!).  Last year he confided to me that he was looking forward to his 80th when he could finally say his age without a lisp.

That said, God bless you Jay! If we didn’t have you, we’d have to invent you.

Linda, Jessica, Dylan and I send our love and want to wish you the happiest of birthdays!

To be continued at #100.

4 thoughts on “A “Roast” to my friend Jay Maisel on his 80th Birthday

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