May 31

Born in 1847 in Quebec, William Pirrie made his mark as chairman of the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. Under his leadership, the company built some of the world's most famous ships, including the RMS Titanic. He was elevated to the peerage as Viscount Pirrie in 1921. Pirrie also served as Lord Mayor of Belfast and was active in civic and charitable causes. His legacy endures in the maritime and industrial heritage of Northern Ireland.

John Ringling was an American entrepreneur and circus impresario renowned for co-founding the Ringling Brothers Circus in 1884. He transformed the circus into one of the world's largest traveling shows in the early 20th century. In 1907, he orchestrated the merger with Barnum & Bailey, creating the 'Greatest Show on Earth'. A passionate art collector, he amassed an impressive collection now housed at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, Florida. His showmanship and business acumen set the standard for modern entertainment. He passed away in 1936, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

Michael Sandberg, Baron Sandberg, born in 1927, was an influential English banker who rose to prominence in global finance. He held key executive positions at leading banks, guiding international operations and strategic growth. In recognition of his contributions, he was made a life peer, sitting in the House of Lords and advising on economic and financial matters. Sandberg was respected for his expertise in banking regulation, risk management, and corporate governance. Throughout his career, he championed innovation in financial services and played a role in post-war economic development. His legacy endures in the institutions he led and the policies he helped shape.

Jim Bolger served as Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1990 to 1997, guiding the country through a period of economic restructuring and global integration. Before entering politics, he built a successful career in dairy farming and business. As leader of the National Party, Bolger championed free-market policies and welfare reform. He later represented New Zealand as Ambassador to the United States and continued influencing public policy through various leadership roles.

Born in 1946, Ted Baehr launched his career in the media industry as a publisher and critic focused on family-friendly content. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of Movieguide, a leading Christian entertainment review publication. Baehr hosts a daily radio and television program, providing analysis and guidance on faith and culture in film and television. He advises entertainment professionals on incorporating positive moral themes and has lectured widely on media ethics. Through his work, he has influenced the portrayal of family values and faith-based narratives in Hollywood.

Born in 1946, Debbie Moore first gained attention as a fashion model in London during the 1960s. She transitioned into entrepreneurship by launching Pineapple Dance Studios in the late 1970s, creating a vibrant hub for dancers. Her brand expanded into a successful dancewear and fashion label, sold in major retailers across the UK. Moore has published her memoirs and remains an influential figure in both the dance and fashion industries. Her visionary approach helped to popularize dance culture and innovative activewear designs.

Jean Chalopin was born May 31, 1950, in Paris, France. He began his career in animation writing scripts and directing early television cartoons. In 1971, he co-founded DIC Entertainment, which under his leadership produced beloved animated series such as 'Inspector Gadget', 'The Real Ghostbusters', and 'Heathcliff'. As a creative force, Chalopin shaped 1980s children's television, blending engaging storytelling with innovative animation. After leaving DIC in 1987, he continued to produce film and television projects worldwide. His work helped define a generation of animated entertainment and laid the groundwork for future independent studios.

Greg Adams was born on May 31, 1960, in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada. He began his NHL career with the Washington Capitals in 1980, later playing for the Vancouver Canucks, Dallas Stars, and other teams over a 15-year span. Adams scored over 300 goals in the league and was known for his speed and scoring touch. After retiring from professional hockey in 1995, he transitioned into business, founding a sports management and real estate consultancy. He has also been involved in youth hockey development programs and community initiatives. Adams’s dual success on the ice and in business has made him a respected figure in both worlds.

Leonard Asper is a Canadian lawyer and media executive best known for leading CanWest Global Communications, one of Canada's largest media companies. He guided the company's expansion into television, newspapers, and digital media during the 1990s and 2000s. Under his leadership, CanWest acquired major broadcast networks and tripled its revenue, shaping Canada's media landscape. Asper has served on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards, focusing on media innovation and cultural institutions. After CanWest's restructuring, he founded Syngas Investments and continues to mentor entrepreneurs in the technology and media sectors.