October 11

Henry J. Heinz was an American businessman and visionary entrepreneur. He began his first venture selling horseradish in 1869, pioneering glass packaging for condiments. In 1876, he founded the H. J. Heinz Company, famous for its '57 varieties' slogan and quality products. He introduced strict quality control standards and innovative marketing techniques that shaped the food industry. Under his leadership, Heinz expanded internationally, becoming a household name. He was also a committed philanthropist, supporting community and educational initiatives. Heinz's legacy endures through the global success of the Heinz food empire long after his death in 1919.

Fred Trump was an American real estate developer and philanthropist who built a fortune constructing residential housing in New York City. He founded the company Elizabeth Trump & Son, developing middle-income apartments in Queens and Brooklyn. Trump became one of the largest builders of barracks for U.S. military personnel during World War II. He was known for his conservative business practices and community involvement. As the father of President Donald Trump, his legacy and business model influenced the Trump Organization. He passed away in 1999, leaving a complex corporate and philanthropic record.

André Emmerich (1924–2007) was a pioneering art dealer who introduced European abstract and color-field painters to American audiences. He opened the André Emmerich Gallery in New York in 1955, representing artists like Helen Frankenthaler and Sam Francis. Emmerich promoted cutting-edge movements, including Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art. His keen eye and passionate advocacy helped shape postwar American art. He remained a central figure in the art world for over five decades, influencing collectors and museums worldwide.

Geoffrey Glynn Tordoff, 1st Baron Tordoff, was born in 1928 and forged a successful career in the chemical industry. He held executive positions at multinational firms, specializing in corporate finance and international trade. Appointed a life peer in 1989, he sat in the House of Lords as a Conservative, contributing to economic and regulatory debates. Lord Tordoff advocated for business-friendly policies and championed consumer rights throughout his tenure. He also served on government and charitable boards, bridging the worlds of commerce and public service. His dual expertise influenced UK industrial strategy during the late 20th century, leaving a lasting legacy.

Michael Edwardes was born in Johannesburg in 1930 and studied at the London School of Economics. He joined British Leyland in 1978 as chairman and chief executive amid a deep financial crisis. Through bold restructuring, wage negotiations, and factory modernizations, he restored the company's profitability. His forthright management style and direct engagement with workers became hallmarks of his tenure. After leaving Leyland in 1982, he held board positions in international companies and advised on industrial policy. He authored books on leadership and management, sharing lessons from his experience in the automotive sector. Edwardes remained a respected figure in business until his death in 2019.

Dan Evins co-founded Cracker Barrel in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, combining country-style dining with a retail store. Under his leadership as CEO, the company expanded to hundreds of locations across the United States. Evins emphasized Southern hospitality, authentic decor, and a wholesome brand image that resonated with customers. He grew Cracker Barrel into a publicly traded company in 1981, overseeing robust financial growth. Evins retired in 2001, leaving a legacy as an innovator in themed dining experiences and brand marketing. His vision transformed a small roadside restaurant into a cultural icon of American comfort food.

Born in San Francisco, Jay Grdina entered the entertainment industry as a performer under the name Justin Sterling. In 1993, he co-founded Digital Playground, which grew into one of the leading adult film studios in the US. Under his leadership as CEO, the company produced numerous award-winning productions and expanded into global distribution. Grdina also launched Victory Creative, a talent management and marketing agency for adult entertainers. He was married to fellow adult film star Jenna Jameson and played a significant role in the industry's move toward mainstream recognition. His blend of business acumen and on-screen experience has made him a notable figure in adult entertainment.