August 29

Henry Bergh was born in 1813 in New York City and became a passionate advocate for animal welfare. In 1866, he founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the first organization of its kind in North America. Bergh campaigned for anti-cruelty laws and used his influence as a diplomat and public official to advance humane treatment. His efforts inspired similar movements worldwide and reshaped public attitudes toward animals. The ASPCA continues his mission today, protecting and rescuing animals in need. Bergh died in 1888, remembered as a pioneering force in the animal rights movement.

Arndt Pekurinen was a Finnish pacifist and activist known for his unwavering commitment to conscientious objection. Born into a military family, he refused to bear arms or take part in military service throughout his life. Pekurinen was repeatedly imprisoned by Finnish authorities for his stance and endured harsh treatment for his beliefs. During the Winter War, he continued to advocate for nonviolence even under pressure. He was killed in 1941 while in Soviet custody, and he remains a symbol of pacifism and individual conscience in Finland.

Richard Blackwell (1922–2008) was an American fashion designer, actor, and critic. He began his career in Hollywood as an actor before turning to fashion design in the 1950s. Blackwell gained international renown for his annual 'Mr. Blackwell's Ten Worst Dressed Women List,' which he published from 1960 until 2001. His witty critiques and sharp sense of style made him a household name in the fashion world. He authored several books on fashion and hosted television shows where he shared style advice. Blackwell dressed celebrities for red-carpet events, blending elegance with bold color and embellishments. He remained active in fashion criticism and design well into his later years. Blackwell's legacy endures as a witty commentator on celebrity style.

Lise Payette was born in 1931 and began her career as a journalist in Quebec. She later entered politics, serving as a cabinet minister in the provincial government. Payette championed social issues, including women's rights and family policies. Her dual roles in media and government made her a prominent public figure in Canada. She passed away in 2018, remembered for her contributions to journalism and politics.

Robin Leach began his career in journalism with the Daily Mail before transitioning to television in the United States. He created and hosted the groundbreaking show "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" from 1984 to 1995, introducing audiences to celebrity opulence. His signature phrases, including "champagne wishes and caviar dreams", became part of popular culture. Leach also worked as a correspondent for Entertainment Tonight and covered major awards ceremonies. His charismatic presentation style influenced lifestyle programming and reality television formats. He continued to write and host shows until his death in 2018, leaving a mark on entertainment journalism.

Mohamed Amin documented humanitarian crises across Africa, earning recognition for his stark coverage of the 1984 Ethiopian famine. His photographs and film footage played a pivotal role in spurring global awareness and fundraising, including Live Aid concerts. Amin co-founded the Camerapix agency, training and mentoring a generation of African photographers. He covered conflicts in Sudan, Libya, and elsewhere, often at great personal risk. Amin died in a plane crash in 1996 while on assignment, leaving a powerful visual legacy. His work set new standards for African journalism and humanitarian reporting.

Frank Henenlotter is an American film director and screenwriter born on August 29, 1950. He gained cult status with his debut feature 'Basket Case' (1982), celebrated for its unique blend of horror and dark humor. Henenlotter continued to explore bizarre and graphic themes in films like 'Brain Damage' (1988) and 'Frankenhooker' (1990). His work is noted for its inventive low-budget effects and dedicated horror fan base. Over a career spanning four decades, he has influenced a generation of genre filmmakers and remains a revered figure in cult cinema.

Raised in Connecticut, English trained in Europe and New York before opening his first restaurant, Olives, in 1989. He built a culinary empire with multiple eateries, cookbooks, and television appearances on the Food Network. English is recognized for blending Mediterranean flavors with contemporary techniques. He has received several James Beard Award nominations for his innovative menus. Beyond cooking, he has authored cookbooks such as "The Olives Table" and hosted culinary travel series. English continues to influence the restaurant industry through his dynamic leadership and creative vision.

Richard Angelo is an American serial killer and poisoner. He served as a nurse before being arrested for injecting patients with harmful substances. In the late 1980s, he was convicted of multiple counts of attempted murder and manslaughter. His crimes prompted investigations into hospital safety and patient protection. Angelo's case remains a chilling example of medical malpractice turned malicious. He is serving a life sentence and his actions have been studied in criminal psychology.

Neil Gorsuch is an American lawyer and jurist who serves on the Supreme Court of the United States. Appointed by President Donald Trump, he took his seat as Associate Justice in April 2017. Before his Supreme Court tenure, Gorsuch served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. He earned degrees from Columbia University, Harvard Law School, and Oxford University. Known for his textualist approach to statutory interpretation and originalist view of the Constitution. Gorsuch's opinions have shaped key decisions on administrative law, religious freedom, and criminal justice.

Aaron Rowand spent over a decade in Major League Baseball, playing for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox and San Francisco Giants. Known for his fearless defense and clutch hitting, he was a key member of the 2005 World Series–winning White Sox. Rowand earned an All-Star selection and Gold Glove Award for his outstanding play in center field. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to broadcasting and analysis, sharing insights on national sports networks. He remains active in youth baseball camps and charity events.

Ruhila Adatia-Sood was a Kenyan journalist, radio host, and television personality renowned for her vibrant on-air presence. She hosted popular programs on Metro FM and Capital FM, where she connected with listeners through her warm interviewing style and cultural commentary. Adatia-Sood also appeared on television, contributing to shows that celebrated Kenyan music and arts. Beyond broadcasting, she was active in community outreach and youth mentorship programs. Her career was tragically cut short when she lost her life in the 2013 Westgate shopping mall attack in Nairobi. She is remembered as a pioneer for Kenyan women in media and an enthusiastic advocate for positive social change.