March 22

David Swinson "Doc" Maynard was an early pioneer and influential figure in the founding of Seattle. Originally trained as a physician, he arrived in the Pacific Northwest in the 1840s and quickly became a civic leader. Maynard negotiated land claims, helped select the site for Seattle's settlement, and advocated for the city's development. He also forged strong relationships with local Native American tribes, securing peaceful coexistence during the area's early growth. Maynard's dual expertise in medicine and law made him a respected counselor and public servant. His vision and perseverance earned him the title of Seattle's "father," and his legacy remains integral to the city's history.

Johannes Brinkman (1902-1949) was a key figure in the Dutch modernist movement. Working with Leendert van der Vlugt, he co-designed the Van Nelle Factory in Rotterdam, a UNESCO World Heritage site. His architecture emphasized functionalism, clean lines, and the use of glass and steel. Brinkman's work influenced industrial and commercial building designs throughout Europe. He also taught and mentored younger architects, promoting the principles of the Nieuwe Bouwen style. Despite his early death, his contributions left a lasting mark on 20th-century architecture.

Yevgeny Petrovich Ostashev (March 22, 1924 – October 24, 1960) was a Soviet test pilot and early space program participant. He played a crucial role in the launch operations of Sputnik 1 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Ostashev served in the Soviet aerospace testing division and contributed to key rocketry trials. He was awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labour for his service to Soviet aerospace efforts. In 1960, he tragically perished in a rocket testing accident during the Nedelin catastrophe. His work laid important foundations for future human spaceflight achievements.

Born in 1935 in Orekhovo-Zuyevo, Russia, Korchuganova graduated from the Soviet Air Force flying school. She became one of the first female test pilots in the USSR, evaluating new aircraft designs for performance and safety. Her skill in aerobatic maneuvers earned her multiple national championship titles. She founded and led a pioneering women's aerobatic team that performed across the Eastern Bloc. A committed advocate for women in aviation, she inspired future generations of female pilots. She passed away in 2004, leaving a lasting imprint on Soviet and global aviation history.

Born in 1935 in Milan, Italy, Pericoli emerged as one of Italy's leading tennis players during the 1950s. She reached the third round at Wimbledon and represented Italy in the prestigious Federation Cup. Known for her vibrant on-court style and signature fashion, she became a fan favorite across Europe. After retiring from competition, she built a career as a sports journalist and television commentator for RAI. Her insightful analysis and charismatic presence made her a trailblazer for women in sports media. She continued to influence the world of tennis until her death in 2024.

Born in 1935 in Brooklyn, New York, Pulli briefly played in the minor leagues before turning to umpiring. He made his Major League debut in 1972 and went on to officiate over 3,700 games. Pulli worked four World Series, two All-Star Games, and was revered for his consistency and fairness. In 1999, he made history by consulting instant replay on a disputed home run call, foreshadowing modern replay review. He also taught umpiring clinics, shaping the next generation of officials. Pulli retired in 1999 and passed away in 2013, remembered as a forward-thinking figure in baseball officiating.

Born in 1936 in Providence, Rhode Island, Carey began his career as a local union organizer. In 1991, he was elected president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters in a historic member-driven vote. He championed transparency and improved benefits for truckers, drivers, and warehouse workers. Under his leadership, the union negotiated landmark contracts with major freight and airline companies. His tenure was cut short by a legal battle over campaign funding, leading to his removal in 1997. Carey's legacy endures as a symbol of grassroots empowerment in the labor movement; he died in 2008.

Wolf Blitzer is an American journalist born on March 22, 1948, best known as a long-time anchor at CNN. He started reporting on the Watergate scandal and later covered the Middle East during the Gulf War, reporting from Baghdad. Blitzer created and hosts 'The Situation Room', a flagship news program offering in-depth political analysis. He has moderated presidential debates, interviewed world leaders, and reported on events like the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Arab Spring. Over his career, Blitzer has received multiple awards for broadcast journalism and built a reputation for thorough, balanced reporting.

Brian Hanrahan was an English journalist born on March 22, 1949, and served over three decades at the BBC. As Washington correspondent and White House press correspondent, he covered five U.S. presidents and key events from Watergate to the end of the Cold War. Hanrahan famously coined the phrase, 'I'm not allowed to say how many weapons were produced,' during the Falklands War, showcasing his ability to communicate complex issues succinctly. He received multiple awards for his journalism and was admired for his calm, authoritative style. Hanrahan also mentored upcoming reporters, leaving a lasting legacy in broadcast news.

Bob Costas is an American sportscaster born on March 22, 1952. He became a household name with NBC Sports, hosting coverage of eleven Olympic Games and delivering memorable narratives during key sporting moments. Known for his articulate interviews and insightful commentary, Costas has tackled issues from on-field strategy to social topics in sports. He hosted the interview series 'Costas Now' on HBO and authored books on baseball and broadcasting. Over his career, Costas has earned multiple Emmy Awards for excellence in sports journalism. He continues to influence sports media through podcasts and guest appearances, inspiring future generations of broadcasters.

Jairo Mora Sandoval was a dedicated Costa Rican environmentalist who led efforts to protect endangered sea turtles on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. As part of the Sea Turtle Conservation Program (Programa Conservacionista de Tortugas Marinas), he patrolled nesting beaches to safeguard turtle nests from poachers. Mora founded the Jairo Mora Sandoval Gandoca-Manzanillo Mixed Wildlife Refuge and worked closely with local communities to raise awareness about marine conservation. His unwavering commitment to environmental protection inspired volunteers and activists across Central America. Tragically, he was abducted and killed in 2013 while on patrol, drawing international attention to the risks faced by environmental defenders. His legacy continues to motivate conservation initiatives and highlight the dangers facing those who protect endangered species.