July 03

Clay Allison (1841–1887) was a frontier rancher and gunfighter who became a legendary figure of the American Old West. Known for his fearlessness and quick temper, he reputedly killed his first man at the age of 15 and later served as a Confederate soldier during the Civil War. After the war, Allison established a cattle ranch in Texas and became notorious for confronting outlaws and stagecoach robbers. Tales of his violent encounters and frontier justice spread across the Southwest, cementing his reputation as a folk hero. He died in a saloon brawl in 1887, but his exploits inspired countless legends of cowboy bravado.

Danielle Bunten Berry (1949–1998) was an influential American video game designer and programmer whose innovative work laid the groundwork for multiplayer gaming. As co-founder of Ozark Softscape, she crafted M.U.L.E. (1983), a groundbreaking economic strategy game celebrated for its engaging multiplayer dynamics. Berry also designed titles such as The Seven Cities of Gold and Robot Rascals, emphasizing player interaction and historical exploration. Later in life, she advocated for LGBTQ+ representation in gaming and transitioned, becoming one of the first well-known transgender figures in the industry. Her creative vision and dedication to social interaction in games have inspired generations of developers.

John Keel (1930-2009) was an American journalist and prolific author famous for his investigative work on UFOs and the paranormal. His 1975 book The Mothman Prophecies explored unexplained creature sightings in West Virginia and inspired a major motion picture. He wrote more than 20 books covering cryptids, high-strangeness events, and supernatural lore. Keel's skeptical yet open-minded approach challenged both believers and critics to reconsider the boundaries of reality. His work shaped modern UFO discourse and continues to influence paranormal research.

Mohammed Daoud Oudeh, known as Abu Daoud (1937-2010), was a senior member of the Black September organization who coordinated the Munich massacre, resulting in the deaths of 11 Israeli athletes. His planning and negotiations brought global attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. After the attack, he lived in exile across multiple countries and survived numerous assassination attempts. Abu Daoud's role in one of modern history's most infamous acts of terror left an indelible mark on international security and counterterrorism efforts.

Yvonne B. Miller (1934-2012) was a pioneering American educator and politician who served in the Virginia House of Delegates and became the first African American woman elected to the State Senate. Before entering politics, she dedicated her career to teaching at the college level and advocating for student success. Miller's legislative priorities included education reform, civil rights, and healthcare access. She was instrumental in expanding scholarship programs and improving public schools. Her legacy endures through scholarships and institutions bearing her name, inspiring future generations to pursue leadership and learning.

Sergio Pininfarina (1926-2012) was an influential Italian automobile designer who led the Pininfarina company, crafting icons such as the Ferrari 250 and the Alfa Romeo Spider. Under his guidance, the firm became synonymous with style and innovation in automotive design. In 1985, he transitioned to politics, serving as a senator in the Italian Parliament where he advocated for industrial development. Pininfarina's designs helped define the look of luxury sports cars for decades. His dual legacy in design and public service earned him international admiration.

Richard Alvin Tonry (1935-2012) was an American attorney and Democratic politician who represented Louisiana's 1st congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977 to 1979. Before Congress, he practiced law and served in local government, focusing on community development. During his tenure, Tonry supported legislation on energy policy and veterans' benefits. After leaving Congress, he returned to legal practice while remaining active in state politics. He is remembered for his commitment to his constituents and contributions to Louisiana's public affairs.

Born in 1947, Lolit Solis rose to prominence as a talent manager, guiding the careers of some of the Philippines' biggest stars. She authored popular showbiz columns in leading magazines and newspapers, sharing insider celebrity news with readers nationwide. As a talk show host, she brought candid interviews and lively discussions to television audiences. Her sharp commentary and eye for talent made her a respected, albeit sometimes controversial, figure in the entertainment industry. Over a career spanning decades, she helped discover and nurture new artists while influencing the landscape of Philippine show business.