September 23

Robert Bosch was a visionary German engineer and industrialist who established Robert Bosch GmbH in 1886. His company pioneered innovations such as magneto ignition systems for automobiles and high-precision tools. Bosch championed worker welfare through social programs, affordable housing, and vocational training. Under his leadership, the firm grew into a global leader in automotive parts, power tools, and household appliances. Today, Bosch remains synonymous with engineering excellence and social responsibility.

Born in New York City in 1931, Hilly Kristal worked in restaurant management before opening CBGB & OMFUG in the Bowery in 1973. Originally intended for country, bluegrass, and blues, the club became the cradle of punk and new wave. Kristal gave artists like the Ramones, Patti Smith, and Talking Heads their first stage. His open-door policy and passion for new music shaped the underground scene. CBGB became a cultural landmark until its closure in 2006. Kristal remained a champion of independent music until his death in 2007.

Arie L. Kopelman served as president of Chanel from 1984 to 2004, overseeing the fashion house's global expansion. Born in New York in 1938, he began his career in advertising before joining Chanel. Under his leadership, Chanel launched iconic fragrances and ready-to-wear lines, cementing its status in luxury fashion. A dedicated philanthropist, Kopelman supported educational and environmental causes. He passed away in 2024, leaving a legacy in both business and charity.

Born in 1939, Sonny Vaccaro began his career in sports marketing with Nike, securing one of the company's first athlete endorsement contracts. He later joined Adidas, orchestrating global marketing campaigns before founding the grassroots ABCD Camp for high school basketball talent. Vaccaro is credited with facilitating Michael Jordan's landmark Nike deal, transforming the sneaker industry. His influence extended to Gatorade and the promotion of young athletes in college basketball. A polarizing figure in the sports business world, he reshaped how brands and athletes collaborate.

Born in 1942, Sila María Calderón began her career in the private sector before transitioning to public service. As the 12th Secretary of State, she managed diplomatic outreach and government operations. Calderón implemented social programs aimed at economic development and women's empowerment. Her leadership style combined entrepreneurial insight with a focus on community welfare. She remains a trailblazer in Puerto Rican politics, advocating for inclusive governance.

Bill Phillips is an American entrepreneur and author specializing in fitness and nutrition. He rose to prominence in the early 1990s by founding Muscle Media magazine, which became influential in the bodybuilding community. His bestselling book Body for Life inspired millions to adopt healthier lifestyles through structured diet and exercise plans. Phillips pioneered the use of home fitness equipment with products like the EFX machine, bringing gym-quality workouts into households. Beyond writing, he has worked as a speaker and consultant, sharing his strategies on goal setting and personal transformation. His work has left a lasting impact on the fitness industry and popularized the concept of evidence-based training.