October 18

Born in 1847 in Milan, Ohio, Thomas Edison held over 1,000 patents over his prolific career. He established the Menlo Park research laboratory, where he invented the phonograph in 1877, revolutionizing sound recording. In 1879, he developed a practical incandescent light bulb and built an electric utility system in New York City. Edison's work extended to motion pictures, where he created the Kinetoscope and produced short films. As a shrewd businessman, he founded companies that would become General Electric and other major firms. His relentless experimentation and promotion of applied science shaped modern technology and industry. Edison died in 1931, leaving an enduring legacy as one of history's greatest inventors.

Born as Florence Nightingale Graham in 1878 in Woodbridge, Ontario, Elizabeth Arden moved to New York City in the early 1900s. She opened her first beauty salon, the Red Door, in 1910, promoting skincare regimes and makeup tailored for women’s health. Arden expanded her business internationally, introducing innovations such as packaged makeup and beauty consultations. She built Elizabeth Arden, Inc. into a powerhouse brand renowned for femininity and elegance. A philanthropist and trendsetter, she remained active in the industry until her death in 1966.

Born in 1867 in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, Sebastian Spering Kresge began his retail career with a five-cent store concept. He opened his first S.S. Kresge store in 1899, emphasizing quality goods at low prices for the American middle class. Under his leadership, the company grew into a national chain and eventually rebranded stores as Kmart in 1962. Kresge's business model influenced modern discount retailing and reshaped consumer expectations. Committed to philanthropy, he established the Kresge Foundation to support education and community development before his death in 1966.

Preston Smith was born in Corn Hill, Texas in 1912 and built a successful career in the oil and gas industry. He served as Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969 before being elected the 40th Governor of Texas. During his term, he focused on economic development and educational reforms. His administration was marred by the Sharpstown scandal, which affected his political standing. After leaving office, he returned to private business and public service. Smith passed away on October 18, 2003.

Vincent DeDomenico was an American entrepreneur who founded the Napa Valley Wine Train and helped transform California's wine tourism industry. Born in Sacramento in 1915, he expanded his family's food manufacturing business before turning to hospitality. In 1989, he launched the Wine Train, offering vintage rail tours through Napa Valley's vineyards. His vision inspired similar tourist experiences nationwide and boosted the region's global reputation. DeDomenico died on October 18, 2007.

Albert Lee Ueltschi began his aviation career as a Navy pilot and flight instructor before turning to aviation training entrepreneurship. In 1951, he founded FlightSafety International to provide professional pilot training and advanced simulation equipment. Under his leadership, the company introduced state-of-the-art flight simulators and safety programs that became benchmarks for the aerospace industry. He championed a philosophy of rigorous instruction combined with the latest technology to improve flight safety worldwide. Ueltschi expanded the company globally, serving commercial airlines, military organizations, and corporate aviation clients. Beyond business, he mentored generations of pilots and instructors, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning. His work significantly shaped modern pilot training standards and raised the bar for aviation safety.