October 23

Hana Brady (1931–1944) was a young Czech Jew who was deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp at the age of 13. Born in Nové Město na Moravě, she and her brother George lived a happy childhood before Nazi persecution forced their family apart. Hana's suitcase, discovered decades later in a Japanese Holocaust education project, revealed her poignant story to the world. Her life and death became the subject of the award-winning book Hana's Suitcase, inspiring educators and students globally. Through George's efforts, Hana has come to represent the millions of children silenced during the Holocaust. Her memory continues to teach the importance of tolerance, human rights, and the dangers of hatred. She died in Auschwitz in October 1944, but her legacy endures as a beacon of remembrance.

Adrien de Noailles (1869–1953) was a member of one of France's most distinguished noble families. As the son of Jules Charles Victurnien de Noailles, he lived amid the social and political circles of Third Republic Paris. Though he did not pursue a notable public career, Adrien's life reflected the traditions and responsibilities of French aristocracy. He managed family estates and participated in charitable activities typical of his class. Little is recorded of personal achievements beyond his role in upholding his family's legacy. He witnessed dramatic changes in French society through two World Wars and the decline of traditional noble privileges. Adrien de Noailles passed away in 1953, closing a chapter in the storied history of the House of Noailles.

Jessica Savitch (1947–1983) was an American journalist whose dynamic on-screen presence broke barriers for women in broadcast news. Beginning her career in local television, she rose to national prominence at NBC News, co-anchoring programs such as 'NBC Nightly News' and 'Today'. Savitch earned acclaim for her clear reporting style and composure under pressure, covering major events from presidential campaigns to international crises. Despite professional success, she struggled with personal challenges behind the scenes. Her untimely death in a car accident at age 36 cut short a promising career and solidified her status as a pioneering figure in television journalism.

Barnett Slepian was born in 1946 in Rochester, New York. He earned his medical degree from the University of Buffalo and specialized in obstetrics and gynecology. Slepian dedicated his career to providing safe abortion services, often under intense protest. On October 23, 1998, he was fatally shot in his home by an anti-abortion extremist. His murder sparked national debate over violence in the abortion rights conflict. Slepian is remembered for his commitment to patient care and medical ethics in the face of adversity. His death remains a solemn reminder of the risks faced by healthcare providers in contentious fields.

Bill Mazer began his broadcasting career in the 1940s and became the first host of a dedicated sports talk show, 'Sportsline,' on WNBC in the early 1960s. His engaging style and extensive sports knowledge helped popularize televised and radio sports commentary across the United States. Mazer covered multiple Olympic Games, Super Bowls, and World Series, earning a reputation for insightful interviews and analysis. Beyond broadcasting, he was a quiz show panelist, game show host, and author of sports trivia books. Over seven decades, his voice became synonymous with American sports culture. Mazer's legacy endures in the many broadcasters he influenced and the enduring format of sports talk shows.

Bernard Mayes began his career in broadcasting, pioneering innovative radio programs that combined news, culture, and social advocacy. In 1958, he founded the San Francisco Suicide Prevention hotline, the first of its kind in the United States, saving countless lives through 24-hour support. Mayes later transitioned into academia, earning a Ph.D. in philosophy and teaching at institutions including the University of Virginia. He authored several books on pastoral counseling, ethics, and media history, and was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights. His work bridged journalism, scholarship, and public service, reflecting a lifelong commitment to mental health and community outreach. Mayes's legacy is remembered in the many lives he touched as a broadcaster, counselor, and teacher.