September 24

Born in Hollywood, Pennsylvania, Sarah Knauss became the world's oldest living person in 1998 at age 118. She witnessed three centuries of American history and became a symbol of remarkable longevity. Her calm demeanor and daily routine were often cited by researchers studying aging. Knauss's lifespan spanned major events from the 19th century through the 1990s. She remains a benchmark in longevity, inspiring studies on healthy aging and human lifespan potential.

Hugo Schmeisser studied mechanical engineering before joining Theodor Bergmann’s weapons factory in the early 20th century. He designed the MP18, the world’s first practical submachine gun, seeing action in the closing stages of World War I. His work influenced subsequent designs, including the famous MP40 used in World War II. Schmeisser continued to develop automatic firearms, holding numerous patents and shaping military small arms. His engineering legacy endures in the principles of modern automatic weapon design.

Esther Eng was one of the first female Chinese-American directors, creating and producing Cantonese-language films in the 1930s and 1940s. Born in San Francisco to immigrant parents, she studied at UC Berkeley before entering the film industry. Eng founded her own production company and collaborated with actors on both sides of the Pacific, blending Eastern and Western filmmaking styles. Her trailblazing career paved the way for Asian-American representation in cinema, and her films remain a testament to cross-cultural creativity.

Born in Philadelphia in 1921, Jim McKay began his career as a sports reporter for local newspapers and radio. He joined ABC in 1961 and became the face of Wide World of Sports, covering events from the Olympics to horse racing. His calm demeanor during the 1972 Munich Olympics crisis made him a trusted voice during breaking news. McKay won numerous Emmy Awards and was inducted into the American Sportscasters Hall of Fame. He authored books on sports and mentored future broadcasters. McKay retired in 1998 and passed away in 2008, remembered as a pioneer of televised sports journalism.

Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin in 1922, Bert I. Gordon earned the nickname “Mr. B.I.G.” for his initials and giant monster films. He produced low-budget cult classics like The Amazing Colossal Man and Earth vs. the Spider. Often working with stop-motion effects, he became a staple of drive-in cinema and B-movie culture. Gordon wrote or co-wrote many of his screenplays and occasionally acted in his own films. His work influenced future genre filmmakers and gained a dedicated fan following. He continued creating independent films into the 21st century and passed away in 2023.

Moti Kirschenbaum began his career at Israel Defense Forces Radio and became a leading figure in Israeli television journalism. He hosted the flagship news program 'Mabat' and produced influential documentaries exploring Israeli society. As director of the Channel 1 newsroom, he modernized news production and mentored future broadcasters. Known for his incisive interviews and editorial integrity, he received numerous awards. He remained an active commentator until his death in 2015.

Victoria Vetri began her modeling career in the mid-1960s, quickly gaining attention for her striking looks. After her Playboy debut in September 1967, she was honored as Playmate of the Year in 1968. Vetri appeared in films and television shows, including 'Rosemary's Baby' and an episode of 'Star Trek'. She collaborated with prominent photographers and designers, solidifying her status in pop culture. Though her public appearances became less frequent later in life, her early work remains iconic.

Lou Dobbs began his journalism career at United Press International and later joined CNN, where he hosted the primetime business show 'Moneyline'. He moved to Fox Business Network in 2011, launching 'Lou Dobbs Tonight' focused on economic and political commentary. Dobbs authored books on entrepreneurship and technology, reflecting his interest in business reporting. He interviewed numerous world leaders, CEOs, and policymakers over his career. He passed away in 2024, leaving a significant mark on business journalism.

Ben Preston is an English journalist and editor with a career spanning print and digital media. He has held senior editorial positions at national newspapers and magazines, overseeing coverage of politics, culture, and current affairs. Preston is recognized for his insightful commentary and leadership in journalistic innovation. He has contributed to media startups and served as a mentor to emerging journalists. His writing often explores societal trends and public policy issues. Preston continues to influence the media landscape through editorial projects and speaking engagements.

Robert Irvine began his culinary career in London before moving to the United States, where he honed his skills under top chefs at The Greenbrier and the Ritz-Carlton. He rose to fame as the host of Food Network’s Dinner: Impossible, leading teams to craft exceptional meals under pressure. Irvine later starred in Restaurant: Impossible, transforming failing eateries through creative menus and renovations. He has authored cookbooks such as Mission: Cook! and maintains a line of sauces and kitchen products. Known for his disciplined approach and motivational style, Irvine has catered for U.S. presidents, military events, and celebrity gatherings. Beyond television, he is involved in philanthropic work supporting military personnel and their families. His dynamic presence and culinary expertise have made him a household name in the world of food entertainment.

Nikolas Cruz is an American convicted mass murderer who carried out the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, on February 14, 2018. Born on September 24, 1998, in Margate, Florida, he was adopted shortly after birth. During the attack, he killed 17 students and staff and injured 17 others, marking one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Cruz pleaded guilty to 17 counts of first-degree murder and 17 counts of attempted murder in October 2021. In December 2022, he was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The tragedy reignited national debates on gun control, mental health awareness, and school safety protocols.