February 14

Valentine Greatrakes rose to prominence in the 1660s for his alleged ability to heal illness through the laying on of hands, earning the nickname "the stroker". He traveled across Ireland and England treating ailments such as ulcers and convulsions, attracting both followers and skeptics. His work was documented in contemporary accounts, and he even treated prisoners in Newgate Gaol. Despite facing criticism and legal challenges, Greatrakes published his experiences and influenced early discussions on faith healing.

Eleanora Atherton was born in 1782 into a wealthy Lancastrian family and inherited a considerable fortune. A devout Catholic, she donated generously to build schools, churches, and orphanages for the poor, including funding for St. Mary's Church in Manchester. Her patronage extended to education and healthcare, significantly improving living conditions for many in Lancashire. She died in 1870, remembered as one of England's most benevolent nineteenth-century benefactors.

Christopher Latham Sholes was an American inventor and politician born in 1819. He began his career in journalism before serving in the Wisconsin State Senate. Sholes collaborated with colleagues to develop the first practical typewriter, patenting his design in 1868. He introduced the QWERTY keyboard layout to reduce mechanical jamming, a standard that persists today. Sholes sold his typewriter patents to the Remington Company, launching the commercial typewriter industry. His invention transformed business communication and office work in the late 19th century. Sholes died in 1890, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of modern writing technology.

Born in Otisfield, Maine, Margaret E. Knight displayed mechanical talent from a young age. At eighteen, she designed a machine to create flat-bottomed paper bags, a major improvement over simple envelopes. She fought a successful patent challenge by a male competitor, becoming one of the first women to win a court case over patent rights. Over her lifetime, she received more than 20 patents for inventions ranging from rotary engines to machines for manufacturing collars. Her innovations laid the foundation for modern paper bag production and opened doors for female inventors in a male-dominated field.

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. studied engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute before starting his career in railroad and bridge construction. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower's success, he designed the Ferris Wheel as the centerpiece for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Standing 264 feet tall, his rotating wheel carried thousands of fairgoers on its inaugural run and became a symbol of American ingenuity. Despite its triumph, Ferris's company faced financial difficulties, and he died with modest means in 1896. His invention, however, sparked the global amusement rides industry and remains an enduring icon at fairs and theme parks worldwide.

Mel Allen, born Melvin Allen Israel, was one of baseball's most famous broadcasters, serving as the lead announcer for the New York Yankees from 1939 to 1964. His smooth baritone voice and signature catchphrases like "How about that?" endeared him to fans nationwide. Allen's career spanned radio and television, and he also called games for the Washington Senators and college sports programs. He narrated sports documentaries and appeared on popular variety shows, becoming a recognizable personality beyond the baseball diamond. Despite a high-profile firing in the 1960s, he remained beloved and returned to broadcasting later in life. Allen's contributions helped popularize sports broadcasting and earned him a place in the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame.

Hugh Downs was an American broadcaster celebrated for his versatility and longevity on television. He began his career in radio and became the co-host of NBC's Today show from 1962 to 1971. Downs hosted game shows such as Concentration and transitioned to news magazine programs, serving as anchor of ABC's 20/20 from 1978 to 1999. His warm demeanor and journalistic integrity made him a trusted figure in American households. Over his six-decade career, he earned multiple Emmy Awards and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame. Even after retiring, Downs remained active as an author and commentator until his death in 2020.

Born into the prominent Mountbatten family as the daughter of Lord Louis Mountbatten, Patricia Knatchbull devoted her life to public service. Following the assassination of her father and younger sister in an IRA bombing in 1979, she inherited the title of Countess Mountbatten of Burma. As a crossbench member of the House of Lords from 1979 to 2010, she advocated for veterans and community causes. She served as President of the Association of Girl Guides and directed numerous charitable initiatives. Known for her dignity and resilience, she became one of the longest-serving female peers in British history.

Pat O'Brien began his career in print journalism after graduating from college in the late 1960s. He reported on politics, culture, and social issues for newspapers and magazines across the United States. As an author, he published essays and books exploring media ethics and journalistic practices. Over his multi-decade career, O'Brien has been recognized for his clear reporting style and commitment to editorial integrity. He has also lectured at journalism schools and mentored emerging reporters. His work continues to influence discussions on the role of journalism in democratic society.

John Halls, born February 14, 1982, is an English former professional footballer and fashion model. He began his career in Arsenal's youth system and represented England at the under-16 level. Halls made appearances in the Premier League and later joined Fulham and Queens Park Rangers. In 2008, he signed with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, expanding his career to the United States. After retiring from football, he pursued modeling, appearing in campaigns and runway shows for top brands. Halls blends his athletic and fashion backgrounds, building a unique profile in both industries.