1. Michael Bloomberg

Michael Bloomberg TO Emma and Georgina Dear Emma and Georgina, It’s almost Father’s Day and I’m writing to thank you for the gifts you’ve given me. Not the ones you’ve wrapped over the years—though I always appreciated them, too. (Especially the fingerpaintings.) The real gift has been watching you both grow up and come into your own as adults. That’s the ultimate gift for any father. I sometimes think of how I wish your grandfather could have seen me graduate from college and make my way in the world. I know how proud he would have been and that means a lot to me. But I also think how lucky I’ve been to be able to see you both make your way in the world, pursuing your own paths with passion, setting goals and driving yourselves to achieve them—on your own terms, in your own ways. Competitiveness and stubbornness run in the genes, I guess. Another gift you’ve given me is the pleasure of seeing you both get involved in philanthropic activities. I can’t think of a more noble or rewarding pursuit. Giving back is something I learned from my parents—so I guess that, too, runs in the genes. Your mother deserves all the credit for what smart and strong women you are. But I’m too impressed with you not to take some of the credit, too. I would have told you thi s in person, but figured you’d roll your eyes. (Again—it’s the genes.) But I just wanted to let you know how proud I am to be your father. Love, Daddy Bloomberg is the mayor of New York City