August 30

Samuel Whitbread (1720–1796) was an English businessman and politician best known for establishing the Whitbread brewery in 1742. His innovative brewing techniques and emphasis on quality helped the company become one of Britain's largest beer producers. As a progressive landowner, he supported agricultural improvements and local social reforms in Bedfordshire. Whitbread served as Member of Parliament for Bedford from 1768 until his death, advocating for commercial and civic interests. His combination of enterprise and public service made him a prominent figure in 18th-century Britain. The Whitbread company remains a testament to his lasting impact on the brewing industry.

Agoston Haraszthy was born in 1812 in Pest in the Kingdom of Hungary. He emigrated to the United States in the 1840s and arrived in California during the Gold Rush. In 1857 he established Buena Vista Winery in Sonoma, introducing European grape varieties and modern viticulture techniques. He actively promoted the potential of California wines through writings and travels. Despite financial setbacks and legal disputes, he continued to innovate in winemaking. Later in life he explored Central America in search of new grape-growing regions. Haraszthy is honored as the Father of California Viticulture for his lasting impact on the American wine industry.

Alexander Hamilton Rice was born in 1818 in Newton, Massachusetts. He built his career as an industrialist and banker before entering politics. Rice served as Mayor of Boston from 1856 to 1858, where he led major public works and urban improvements. As the 30th Governor of Massachusetts from 1876 to 1879, he supported railroad expansion and educational reform. He also represented his state in the U.S. Congress, focusing on civil service and veterans affairs. Rice's leadership helped modernize Massachusetts industry and infrastructure. He died in 1895, leaving a legacy of civic advancement and public service.

Harold Atcherley was a prominent English businessman whose career spanned various sectors of British industry. He held leadership positions in manufacturing and played a key role in post-war economic development. Atcherley was known for his strategic vision and commitment to corporate innovation. He served on several company boards and influenced trade policies, advocating for modernization and international cooperation. His leadership helped shape the growth and competitiveness of British businesses in the latter half of the 20th century.

Warren Buffett began investing at a young age, eventually building Berkshire Hathaway into a global conglomerate. He is renowned for his value investing philosophy, focusing on companies with strong fundamentals. Buffett consistently ranks among the world's wealthiest individuals while pledging to give away most of his fortune. He co-founded The Giving Pledge with Bill and Melinda Gates to encourage philanthropic commitments. Buffett's annual shareholder letters are widely read for their investment insights and wisdom. He remains active in business and philanthropy well into his 90s, inspiring investors worldwide.

Antonio Cabangon Chua (1934–2016) was a pioneering Filipino media executive and business leader. Starting his career in journalism, he acquired and transformed various publications, founding the BusinessMirror newspaper and owning interests in Aliw Broadcasting Corporation and Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation. Under his leadership, the ALC Group diversified into banking, insurance, real estate, and hospitality, becoming a major conglomerate in the Philippines. Known for his strategic vision, Cabangon Chua also supported education and environmental causes through philanthropic efforts. His influence reshaped the Philippine media landscape and inspired future generations of entrepreneurs.

Ted Ammon built his career in finance, co-founding A&G Capital Management and advising on major investment deals. He was recognized for his philanthropic efforts, supporting educational and cultural institutions. Ammon’s personal life attracted media attention following his divorce from Generosa Ammon and her subsequent marriage to another man. In 2001, Ammon was tragically murdered in his New York home, leading to a widely publicized trial involving his ex-wife and her partner. His death remains a notorious case in true-crime history.

Ron George is an American entrepreneur and public servant, known for founding a computer networking company before entering politics. Born in 1953, he served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 2003 to 2014, representing Annapolis and its suburbs. During his tenure, he focused on education reform, small business development, and tax policy initiatives. In 2014, he ran as the Republican nominee for Governor of Maryland, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and business growth. George has been recognized for bridging commercial acumen with legislative work and remains active in civic advocacy.

Craig Whittaker is an English Conservative Member of Parliament who has represented Calder Valley since a 2010 by-election. Before entering politics, he ran a successful business in property and construction. Whittaker has served on various parliamentary committees and held government whip positions. He has campaigned on issues such as rural broadband access and pensioner benefits. Known for his approachable style, he frequently engages with constituents through surgeries and local events.