April 28

Born in 1604 in Amsterdam, Joris Jansen Rapelje emigrated to New Netherland in 1624 as part of one of the colony’s first expeditions. He received land grants near present-day Brooklyn and helped establish settlements such as Wallabout and Flatlands. As a prominent farmer and community leader, he negotiated with Native American tribes and shaped early colonial governance. His descendants became among the first European families to flourish in what became New York. Rapelje died in 1662, leaving a legacy woven into the city’s early history.

Born in Normandy in 1761, Marie Harel developed a distinctive method for producing a soft, creamy cheese using local milk and a unique mould. During the turmoil of the French Revolution, she refined her techniques and passed her knowledge to succeeding generations. Her recipe gave rise to Camembert cheese, which gained enduring popularity across France and eventually the world. Today, her legacy lives on in the dairy traditions of Normandy, where Camembert remains a symbol of French gastronomy. She died in 1844, leaving behind a culinary heritage that continues to delight cheese lovers.

Jack Fingleton played 18 Test matches for Australia as a dependable opening batsman in the 1930s. After retiring from cricket, he built a notable career as a newspaper correspondent covering international sports. He became one of Australia's first radio sportscasters, bringing cricket commentary to a broader audience. Fingleton authored several books on cricket history and autobiographical accounts. His dual legacy endures in both Australian cricket and sports journalism.

Born in Chatham, New Jersey, she studied political science at UC Berkeley before pursuing culinary arts. In 1971, Waters opened Chez Panisse in Berkeley, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. She is a leading advocate for the farm-to-table movement and sustainable agriculture in America. Waters founded the Edible Schoolyard Project to teach children about cooking and gardening. Her cookbooks, including 'The Art of Simple Food', have influenced home cooks and professionals alike. She has received the James Beard Award and the French Legion of Honor for her contributions to gastronomy.

Jeremy Cooke was called to the Bar and built a distinguished career in English law. He specialized in complex civil litigation before being appointed as a High Court judge. As a member of the Chancery Division, he has presided over significant cases in equity and trusts. Cooke has contributed to legal scholarship through lectures and publications on commercial law. His fair and analytical approach to the bench has earned respect from peers and legal professionals.

Steve Rider began his broadcasting career in the 1970s, quickly rising through the ranks at BBC Sport to become a household name. He covered major events including the Olympics, Formula One, and football tournaments with insightful commentary. Later, he moved to ITV, presenting sports coverage to millions of viewers and pioneering innovative presentation formats. Known for his calm delivery and deep knowledge, Rider has also hosted award ceremonies and sports documentaries. His influence has shaped modern sports broadcasting in the UK.

Elena Kagan is an American lawyer, law professor, and jurist who has served on the Supreme Court of the United States since her appointment by President Barack Obama in 2010. She earned her undergraduate degree from Princeton University and a DPhil from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar before graduating from Harvard Law School. Kagan clerked for Justice Thurgood Marshall and served as Solicitor General of the United States, becoming the first woman to hold that role. Prior to her judicial career, she was the first female dean of Harvard Law School. Known for her clear writing style and pragmatic approach, Justice Kagan has authored landmark opinions on administrative law, free speech, and civil rights. She continues to influence American jurisprudence and inspire future generations of legal scholars.

Nikki Grahame first entered the public eye as a contestant on Big Brother UK in 2006, quickly becoming a fan favorite for her candid personality. She participated in several reality TV shows and worked as a columnist for various publications. Grahame was open about her struggles with anorexia nervosa, raising awareness about eating disorders. Her memoir detailed her personal challenges and resilience, earning praise for its honesty. She authored a children's book series, combining her journalistic skills with creative storytelling. Grahame's outspoken nature and warmth endeared her to audiences across Europe. She passed away in 2021, leaving a legacy of advocacy for mental health and body positivity.