Diana Spencer died today – 11 years ago

Diana Frances Spencer was born on July 1, 1961 in Sandringham, Norfolk, England. She said, “Life is just a journey.” [Here are some words to help you on that journey.]... Diana Spencer died on August 31, 1997 in Paris, France.

Sally Rand died today – 29 years ago

Dancer and actress Sally Rand was born as Harriet Helen Gould Beck on April 3 (or January 2), 1904 in Hickory County, Missouri. She said, “I'm not the type to sit on the porch and watch life go by.” [And don’t you do it either. Just do it.]... Ms. Rand died on August 31, 1979 in Glendora, California.

Georges Braque died today – 45 years ago

Painter and sculptor (helping to create Cubism) Georges Braque was born on May 13, 1882 in Argenteuil-sur-Seine, France. He said, “Truth exists; only lies are invented.” [Ain’t that the truth.]... Mr. Braque died on August 31, 1963 in Paris, France.

Glenn Ford died today – 2 years ago

Actor (in Plunder of the Sun) Glenn Ford was born as Gwyllyn Samuel Newton Ford on May 1, 1916 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. He said, “I was making a film called The White Tower at the foot of Mont Blanc - the one thing I learned from that experience was that it's more difficult to go down a mountain than to go up. A lot of people don't realize that.” [But only if you want to go safely.]... Mr. Ford died on August 30, 2006 in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California.

Fred Whipple died today – 4 years ago

Astronomer (proposing the dirty snowball hypothesis of comet composition) Fred Lawrence Whipple was born on November 5, 1906 in Red Oak, Iowa. Mr. Whipple died on August 30, 2004 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Charles Bronson died today – 5 years ago

Actor (in This Property is Condemned) Charles Bronson was born as Charles Dennis Buchinsky on November 3, 1921 in Ehrenfeld, Pennsylvania. Mr. Bronson died on August 30, 2003 in Los Angeles, California.

Abraham Zapruder died today – 38 years ago

Photographer (creating the Zapruder film) Abraham Zapruder was born on May 15, 1905 in Kovel in Ukraine. He said, “Always carry your camera.” [Do you need another reason?]... Mr. Zapruder died on August 30, 1970 in Dallas, Texas.

Richard Jewell died today – 1 year ago

Richard A. Jewell was born on December 17, 1962 in Danville, Virginia. He had been falsely accused of the Centennial Olympic Park bombing on July 27, 1996 at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. He said, “I want my name back.” [Don’t assume the worst about other people. Be more positive.]... Mr. Jewell died on August 29, 2007 in Woodbury, Georgia.

Lee Marvin died today – 21 years ago

Actor (in Monte Walsh) Lee Marvin was born on February 19, 1924 in New York City, New York. He said, "If I have any appeal at all, it's to the fellow who takes out the garbage." [Oh, don't be so hard on yourself. And don't you do it either.]... Mr. Marvin died on August 29, 1987 in Tucson, Arizona.

Ingrid Bergman died today – 26 years ago

Actress (in Casablanca) Ingrid Bergman was born on August 29, 1915 in Stockholm, Sweden. She said, “Be yourself. The world worships the original.” [If you need some help, try this. And let others be themselves, too.]... Ms. Bergman died on August 29, 1982 in London, England.

Lowell Thomas died today – 27 years ago

Traveller Lowell Jackson Thomas was born on April 6, 1892 in Woodington, Ohio. He said, “After the age of 80, everything reminds you of something else.” [Be glad for the memories and improve that function.]... Mr. Thomas died on August 29, 1981 in Pawling, New York.

Ruth Gordon died today – 23 years ago

Actress (in Every Which Way But Loose) Ruth Gordon was born as Ruth Gordon Jones on October 30, 1896 in Quincy, Massachusetts. She said, “The very best impromptu speeches are the ones written well in advance.” [So start rehearsing. Here's a good source for material.]... Ms. Gordon died on August 28, 1985 in Edgartown, Massachusetts.

Anissa Jones died today – 32 years ago

Actress (on Family Affair) Mary Anissa Jones was born on March 11, 1958 in West Lafayette, Indiana. Ms. Jones died on August 28, 1976 in Oceanside, California.

Greg Morris died today – 12 years ago

Actor (on Mission: Impossible) Francis Gregory Alan Morris was born on September 27, 1933 in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Morris died on August 27, 1996 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Douglas Kenney died today – 28 years ago

Author (co-founding the National Lampoon magazine) Douglas C. Kenney was born on December 10, 1947 in West Palm Springs, Florida. Mr. Kenney died on August 27, 1980 in Kauai, Hawaii.

Brian Epstein died today – 41 years ago

Manager (of The Beatles) Brian Samuel Epstein was born on September 19, 1934 in Liverpool, England. Mr. Epstein died on August 27, 1967 in London, England.

Gracie Allen died today – 44 years ago

Comedian and actress (on The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show) Grace Ethel Cecile Rosalie Allen was born on July 26, 1895 in San Francisco, California. She said, “This used to be a government of checks and balances. Now it's all checks and no balances.” [The truth even way back then.]... Ms. Allen died on August 27, 1964 in Los Angeles, California.

It's a Tico Tico Day.

But if that ain't enough, go here.

2009 Olympic swim gold medalist?

Laura Branigan died today – 4 years ago

Singer (of Gloria and How Am I Supposed to Live Without You) Laura Branigan was born on July 3, 1957 in Brewster, New York. Ms. Branigan died on August 26, 2004 in East Quogue, New York.

Evelyn Wood died today – 13 years ago

Speed reader Evelyn Wood was born on January 8, 1909. She said, “Read faster and faster and faster.” Ms. Wood died on August 26, 1995.

Ted Knight died today – 22 years ago

Actor (on the Mary Tyler Moore show) Ted Knight was born as Tadeusz Wladyslaw Konopka on December 7, 1923 in Terryville, Connecticut. Mr. Knight died on August 26, 1986 in Glendale, California.

Charles Lindbergh died today – 34 years ago

Aviator Charles Augustus Lindbergh was born on February 4, 1902 in Detroit, Michigan. He said, “If I had to choose, I would rather have birds than airplanes.” [And that’s what the birds say, too.]... Mr. Lindbergh died on August 26, 1974 in Kipahulu, Maui, Hawaii.

Francis Chichester died today – 36 years ago

Aviator and sailor Francis Chichester was born on September 17, 1901 in Barnstaple, Devon, England. Mr. Chichester died on August 26, 1972 in Plymouth, Devon, England.

Jack Nitzsche died today – 8 years ago

Songwriter (of Needles and Pins) Bernard Alfred "Jack" Nitzsche was born on April 22, 1937 in Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Nitzsche died on August 25, 2000 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.

Truman Capote died today – 24 years ago

Author (of Breakfast at Tiffany’s) Truman Capote was born as Truman Streckfus Persons on September 30, 1924 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He said, “A conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue. That's why there are so few good conversations: due to scarcity, two intelligent talkers seldom meet.” [Perhaps we just need better material.]... Mr. Capote died on August 25, 1984 in Los Angele, California.

Stan Kenton died today – 29 years ago

Pianist Stanley Newcomb Kenton was born on December 15, 1911 in Wichita, Kansas. Mr. Kenton died on August 25, 1979 in Los Angeles, California.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross died today – 4 years ago

Psychiatrist and author (of On Death and Dying) Elisabeth Kübler-Ross was born on July 8, 1926 in Zurich, Switzerland. She said, “Should you shield the canyons from the windstorms you would never see the true beauty of their carvings.” [Explore the possibilities.]... Ms. Kübler-Ross died on August 24, 2004 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Mary Jane Croft died today – 9 years ago

Actress (on The Lucy Show and Here’s Lucy) Mary Jane Croft was born on February 15, 1916 in Muncie, Indiana. Ms. Croft died on August 24, 1999 in Century City, California.

E.G. Marshall died today – 10 years ago

Actor (on Chicago Hope) E. G. Marshall was born as Everett Eugene Grunz on June 18, 1914 in Owatorina, Minnesota. Mr. Marshall died on August 24, 1998 in Bedford, New York.

Leonard Frey died today – 20 years ago

Actor (in Fiddler on the Roof) Leonard Frey was born on September 4, 1938 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. Mr. Frey died on August 24, 1988 in New York City, New York.

Louis Prima died today – 30 years ago

Singer, actor, songwriter, & trumpeter Louis Prima was born on December 7, 1910 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Prima died on August 24, 1978 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Kathleen Freeman died today – 7 years ago

Actress (on The Beverly Hillbillies) Kathleen Freeman was born on February 17, 1919 in Chicago, Illinois. Ms. Freeman died on August 23, 2001 in New York City, New York.

Sebastian Cabot died today – 31 years ago

Actor (on Family Affair) Sebastian Cabot was born on July 6, 1918 in London, England. Mr. Cabot died on August 22, 1977 in North Saanich, British Columbia, Canada.

Hank Patterson died today – 33 years ago

Actor (on Green Acres) Hank Patterson was born as Elmer Calvin Patterson on October 9, 1888 in Springville, Alabama. Mr. Patterson died on August 23, 1975 in Woodland Hills, California.

Oscar Hammerstein II died today – 48 years ago

Songwriter Oscar Hammerstein II was born as Oscar Greeley Clendenning Hammerstein on July 12, 1895 in New York City, New York. He said, “You've got to be taught to hate and fear.” [So eliminate the negative.]... Mr. Hammerstein died on August 23, 1960 in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

Colleen Dewhurst died today – 17 years ago

Actress (on Murphy Brown) Colleen Dewhurst was born on June 3, 1924 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. She was the mother of Campbell Scott. Ms. Dewhurst died on August 22, 1991 in South Salem, New York.

Jacob Bronowski died today – 34 years ago

Mathematician, biologist, and author (of the TV series The Ascent of Man) Jacob Bronowski was born on January 18, 1908 in Łódź, Congress Poland. He said, “You will die but the carbon will not; its career does not end with you. It will return to the soil, and there a plant may take it up again in time, sending it once more on a cycle of plant and animal life.” [Does that make you want to be a carbon atom?]... Mr. Bronowski died on August 22, 1974 in East Hampton, New York.

Robert Moog died today – 3 years ago

Inventor (of the Moog synthesizer) Robert Arthur Moog was born on May 23, 1934 in New York City, New York. He said, “One always has to remember these days where the garbage pail is, because it's so easy to make sounds, and to put sounds together into something that appears to be music, but it's just as hard as it always was to make good music.” [Yep.]... Mr. Moog died on August 21, 2005 in Ashville, North Carolina.

Fred Hoyle died today – 7 years ago

Astronomer (rejecting the Big Bang hypothesis – as does Eric J. Lerner) Fred Hoyle was born on June 24, 1915 in Gilstead, Bingley, West Yorkshire, England. He said, “Things are the way they are because they were the way they were.” [Hmmmmmm.]... Mr. Hoyle died on August 20, 2001 in Bournemouth, England.

George Adamson died today – 19 years ago

Conservationist (featured in Born Free) George Adamson was born on February 3, 1906 in Dholpur, Rajasthan, India. Mr. Adamson died on August 20, 1989 in Kenya, Africa.

Betty Everett died today – 7 years ago

Singer (of The Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss)) Betty Everett was born on November 23, 1939 in Greenwood, Mississippi. Ms. Everett died on August 19, 2001 in Beloit, Wisconsin.

Linus Pauling died today – 14 years ago

Scientist Linus Carl Pauling was born on February 28, 1901 in Portland, Oregon. He said, “Everyone should know that most cancer research is largely a fraud, and that the major cancer research organizations are derelict in their duties to the people who support them.” [I'm sure that there's a lot of waste there, but is it true?]... Mr. Pauling died on August 19, 1994 in Big Sur, California.

Hayden Rorke died today – 21 years ago

Actor (in I Dream of Jeannie) Hayden Rorke was born as William Henry Rorke on October 23, 1910 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. Mr. Rorke died on August 19, 1987 in Toluca Lake, California.

Groucho Marx died today – 31 years ago

Comedian and game show host (of You Bet Your Life) Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx was born on October 2, 1890 in New York City, New York. He said, “A black cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere.” [Does that apply to the other colors, too?]... Mr. Marx died on August 19, 1977 in Los Angeles, California.

B.F. Skinner died today – 18 years ago

Psychologist Burrhus Frederic Skinner was born on March 20, 1904 in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania. He said, “The real problem is not whether machines think but whether men do.” [Try some thinking here.]... Mr. Skinner died on August 18, 1990 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Pearl Bailey died today – 18 years ago

Singer (of Takes Two to Tango) and actress Pearl Mae Bailey was born on March 29, 1918 in Newport News, Virginia. She said, “A crown, if it hurts us, is not worth wearing.” [But it can look so good.]... Ms. Bailey died on August 17, 1990 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Ira Gershwin died today – 25 years ago

Lyricist (of I Got Rhythm and Embraceable You) Ira Gershwin was born as Israel Gershowitz on December 6, 1896 in New York City, New York. He said, “A song without music is a lot like H2 without the O.” [Wouldn’t the lack of music mean that we were just speaking?]... Mr. Gershwin died on August 17, 1983 in Beverly Hills, California.

Vivian Vance died today – 29 years ago

Actress (in I Love Lucy) Vivian Vance was born as Vivian Roberta Jones on July 26, 1909 in Cherryvale, Kansas. She said,” When I die, there will be people who send flowers to Ethel Mertz.” [But isn't that who you were... to us?]... Ms. Vance died on August 17, 1979 in Belvedere, California.

Paul Williams died today – 35 years ago

Singer (with the Temptations) Paul Williams was born on July 2, 1939 in Birmingham, Alabama. He said, “I am not on this planet to get something done - the things we accomplish are expressions of our purpose.” [Create your own purpose.]... Mr. Williams died on August 17, 1973 in Detroit, Michigan.

Jeff Corey died today – 6 years ago

Actor (in Picket Fences) Jeff Corey was born as Arthur Zwerling on August 10, 1914 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. Mr. Corey died on August 16, 2002 in Santa Monica, California.

Phil Leeds died today – 10 years ago

Actor (in Everybody Loves Raymond and Ally McBeal) Phil Leeds was born on April 6, 1916 in New York City, New York. Mr. Leeds died on August 16, 1998 in Los Angeles, California.

Stewart Granger died today – 15 years ago

Actor (in Scaramouche) Stewart Granger was born as James Lablache Stewart on May 6, 1913 in London, England. Mr. Granger died on August 16, 1993 in Santa Monica, California.

Amanda Blake died today – 19 years ago

Actress (in Gunsmoke) Amanda Blake was born on February 20, 1929 in Buffalo, New York. She said, “I learned a long time ago, there are some things in this life that you just accept the way they are.” [Just be sure that you know the difference.]... Ms. Blake died on August 16, 1989 in Sacramento, California.

Elvis Presley died today – 31 years ago

Singer and actor (in Follow That Dream) Elvis Aaron Presley was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi. He said, “I’m all shook up.” [He did here.]... Mr. Presley died on August 16, 1977 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Edward Walker died today – 8 years ago

Inventor (of the Lava lamp) Edward Craven Walker was born in 1918 in Singapore. He said, “I like to watch blobs of wax float around and so will you.” Mr. Walker died on August 15, 2000 in London, England.

Lancelot Ware died today – 8 years ago

Co-founder of Mensa International Lancelot Lionel Ware was born on June 5, 1915 in Mitcham, Surrey, England. He said, “I love intelligence.” [And here’s some more.]... Mr. Ware died on August 15, 2000 in Surrey, England.

John Cameron Swayze died today – 13 years ago

News commentator John Cameron Swayze was born on April 4, 1906 in Wichita, Kansas. Mr. Swayze died on August 15, 1995 in Sarasota, Florida.

Ernie Bushmiller died today – 26 years ago

Cartoonist (creating Nancy) Ernest Paul "Ernie" Bushmiller, Jr. was born on August 23, 1905 in the Bronx, New York City, New York. Mr. Bushmiller died on August 15, 1982.

René Magritte died today – 41 years ago

Artist (of these) René François Ghislain Magritte was born on November 21, 1898 in Lessines, Belgium. He said, “The mind loves the unknown. It loves images whose meaning is unknown, since the meaning of the mind itself is unknown.” [But get some clarity.]... Mr. Magritte died on August 15, 1967 in Brussels, Belgium.

Oscar Levant died today – 36 years ago

Pianist and actor (in Rhapsody in Blue) Oscar Levant was born on December 27, 1906 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He said, “Strip away the phony tinsel of Hollywood and you will find the real tinsel underneath.” [At least something's real out there.]... Mr. Levant died on August 14, 1972 in Beverly Hills, California.

Julia Child died today – 4 years ago

Author (with Simone Beck and Louisette Bertholle, of Mastering the Art of French Cooking) and cook (on the TV show The French Chef) Julia Child was born as Julia Carolyn McWilliams on August 15, 1912 in Pasadena, California. She said, “Life itself is the proper binge.” [So LIVE it!]... Ms. Child died on August 13, 2004 in Santa Barbara, California.

Merv Griffin died today – 1 year ago

TV host (of The Merv Griffin Show) and TV show creator (of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune) Mervyn Edward “Merv” Griffin Jr. was born on July 6, 1925 in San Mateo, California. He said, “Las Vegas without Wayne Newton is like Disneyland without Mickey Mouse.” [He needed to get out more.]... Mr. Griffin died on August 12, 2007 in Los Angeles, California.

Loretta Young died today – 8 years ago

Actress (in Letter to Loretta) Loretta Young was born as Gretchen Young on January 6, 1913 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She said, “Wearing the correct dress for any occasion is a matter of good manners.” [Or somethin’ else.]... Ms. Young died on August 12, 2000 in Los Angeles, California.

John Cage died today – 16 years ago

Composer (of 4’33”) John Milton Cage Jr. was born on September 5, 1912 in Los Angeles, California. He said, “I can't understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I'm frightened of the old ones.” [Try these ideas.]... Mr. Cage died on August 12, 1992 in New York City, New York.

Henry Fonda died today – 26 years ago

Actor (in On Golden Pond) Henry Jaynes Fonda was born on May 16, 1905 in Grand Island, Nebraska. He said, “I've been close to Bette Davis for thirty-eight years - and I have the cigarette burns to prove it.” [She told you to give her some space.]... Mr. Fonda died on August 12, 1982 in Los Angeles, California.

Ian Fleming died today – 44 years ago

Author (creating the James Bond character) Ian Lancaster Fleming was born on May 28, 1908 in Mayfair, London, England. He said, “A horse is dangerous at both ends and uncomfortable in the middle.” [He must have liked to walk.]... Mr. Fleming died on August 12, 1964 in Kent, England.

Mike Douglas died today – 2 years ago

Entertainer and talk show host (on The Mike Douglas Show) Michael “Mike” Delaney Dowd, Jr. was born on August 11, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois. He said, "Talk. Talk. Talk." [Well, we have enough talk. We need more action.]... Mr. Douglas died on August 11, 2006 in North Palm Beach, Florida.

Phil Harris died today – 13 years ago

Singer, songwriter, and voice actor (in The Jungle Book) Phil Harris was born as Wonga Philip Harris on June 24, 1904 in Linton, Indiana. He said, "In those days, it didn't take much imagination to come up with something that required great lyric development skills. You just thought of an experience that you might have gone through, and write it down." [Yep. Thinking is the key to just about everything. And doing it is the next.]... Mr. Harris died on August 11, 1995 in Palm Springs, California.

Peter Cushing died today – 14 years ago

Actor (in a lot of films) Peter Wilton Cushing was born on May 26, 1913 in Kenley, Surrey, England. He said, “Today's youth cannot miss something they have never known, but I fear that there are no current fictional characters whose impact and influence will last with such abiding affection into their 'sore and yellow' as this splendid man's creations have in mine!” [Whoever he was, here’s one.]... Mr. Cushing died on August 11, 1994 in Canterbury, Kent, England.

Anne Ramsey died today – 20 years ago

Actress Anne Ramsey was born as Anne Mobley on September 1, 1929 in Omaha, Nebraska. She said, “I could really use some cosmetic surgery.” [Oh, come on. We’ve all thought that at some time.]… Ms. Ramsey died on August 11, 1988 in Hollywood, California.

Clara Peller died today – 21 years ago

Actress (in the Where’s the beef? advertisement) Clara Peller was born on August 4, 1902 in Chicago, Illinois. She said, “Where’s the next commercial?” [She probably thought it.]... Ms. Peller died on August 11, 1987 in Chicago, Illinois.

Howard Jarvis died today – 22 years ago

Promoter (of California’s Proposition 13) Howard Jarvis was born on September 22, 1903 in Magna, Utah. He said, “Vote for Proposition 13.” [And while you’re at it, work on those statistics.]... Mr. Jarvis died on August 11, 1986 in Los Angeles, California.

Jennifer Paterson died today – 9 years ago

Chef (on the TV show Two Fat Ladies) Jennifer Paterson was born on April 3, 1928 in London, England. She said, “Let’s cook something great.” [Then eat it.]... Ms. Paterson died on August 10, 1999 in London, England.

Judith Rossner died today – 3 years ago

Author (of Looking for Mr. Goodbar) Judith Perelman Rossner was born on March 31, 1935 in New York City, New York. She said, “My abiding theme is separations.” [Separate your mind from error: study and study.]... Ms. Rossner died on August 9, 2005 in Manhattan, New York City, New York.

Tony Mottola died today – 4 years ago

Guitarist Tony Mottola was born on April 18, 1918 in Kearny, New Jersey. Mr. Mottola died on August 9, 2004 in Denville, New Jersey.

David Raksin died today – 4 years ago

Composer (of the music to Laura) David Raksin was born on August 4, 1912 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Mr. Raksin died on August 9, 2004 in Van Nuys, California.

Gregory Hines died today – 5 years ago

Dancer Gregory Oliver Hines was born on February 14, 1946 in New York City, New York. He said, “These feet were made for dancin’.” [You know that he did.]... Mr. Hines died on August 9, 2003 in Los Angeles, California.

Jerry Garcia died today – 13 years ago

Songwriter and guitarist (on many guitars) Jerome John “Jerry” Garcia was born on August 1, 1942 in San Francisco, California. He said, “Constantly choosing the lesser of two evils is still choosing evil.” [So resist it all.]... Mr. Garcia died on August 9, 1995 in Forest Knolls, California.

Dimitri Shostakovich died today – 33 years ago

Composer Dimitri Dmitriyevich Shostakovich was born on September 25, 1906 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. He said, “A creative artist works on his next composition because he was not satisfied with his previous one.” [And here I thought that it was because there was so much inside... Hmmmmmm.]... Mr. Shostakovich died on August 9, 1975 in Moscow, Russia.

Sharon Tate died today – 39 years ago

Actress (in The Beverly Hillbillies) Sharon Marie Tate was born on January 24, 1943 in Dallas, Texas. She said, “My whole life has been decided by fate. I think something more powerful than we are decides our fates for us. I know one thing - I've never planned anything that ever happened to me.” [Change a lot, if not most, of that.]... Ms. Tate was killed on August 9, 1969 in Benedict Canyon, Los Angeles, California.

Hermann Hesse died today – 46 years ago

Author (of Steppenwolf and Siddhartha) Hermann Hesse was born on July 2, 1877 in Calw, Württemberg, Germany. He said, “Only the ideas that we really live have any value.” [So start living.]... Mr. Hesse died on August 9, 1962 in Montagnola, Switzerland.

The Happy Organ - Do you remember it?

Check out its history.

Barbara Bel Geddes died today – 3 years ago

Actress (in Dallas) Barbara Bel Geddes was born on October 31, 1922 in New York City, New York. Ms. Geddes died on August 8, 2005 in Northeast Harbor, Maine.

Fay Wray died today – 4 years ago

Actress (in King Kong) Vina Fay Wray was born on September 15, 1907 in Cardston, Alberta, Canada. She said, “Only in your imagination can you revise.” [Do it anyway.]... Ms. Wray died on August 8, 2004 in New York City, New York.

Edna Skinner died today – 5 years ago

Actress (in Mister Ed) Edna Skinner was born on May 23, 1921 in Washington, D.C. Ms. Skinner died on August 8, 2003 in North Bend, Oregon.

Richard Deacon died today – 24 years ago

Actor (on Mister Ed, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Beverly Hillbillies) Richard Deacon was born on May 14, 1921 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Deacon died on August 8, 1984 in Los Angeles, Cal.ifornia.

Peter Jennings died today – 3 years ago

News anchor (on ABC’s World News Tonight) Peter Charles Archibald Ewart Jennings was born on July 29, 1938 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He said, “We have been through a period where we see power leaching away from Washington. Who is more important in the world today: Bill Clinton or Bill Gates? I don't know.” [If he couldn’t decide that, then he needed to get out more.]... Mr. Jennings died on August 7, 2005 in New York City, New York.

Red Adair died today – 4 years ago

Old field firefighter Paul Neal “Red” Adair was born on June 18, 1915 in Houston, Texas. He said, “If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.” [Yep.]... Mr. Adair died on August 7, 2004 in Houston, Texas.

Brion James died today – 9 years ago

Actor (in Enemy Mine and Blade Runner) Brion Howard James was born on February 20, 1945 in Redlands, California. He said, “Producing is nothing more than bringing all the elements together, connecting people.” [That’s all?]... Mr. James died on August 7, 1999 in Malibu, California.

Oliver Hardy died today – 51 years ago

Actor (in Laurel and Hardy) Oliver Norvell Hardy was born on January 18, 1892 in Harlem, Georgia. He said, “Sometimes I’m just half of a funny man.” [Well,...]... Mr. Hardy died on August 7, 1957 in North Hollywood, California.

Larry Adler died today – 7 years ago

Harmonica player Lawrence “Larry” Cecil Adler was born on February 10, 1914 in Baltimore, Maryland. He said, “If I only had four lungs, I could really play this thing.” [He thought it.]... Mr. Adler died on August 7, 2001 in London, England.

Kathryn Murray died today – 9 years ago

Dancer (with her husband Arthur Murray on The Arthur Murray Party) Kathryn Murray was born on September 15, 1906 in Jersey City, New Jersey. She said, “I could have danced all day.” [Oh, come on. She did, too.]... Mrs. Murray died on August 6, 1999 in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Harry Reasoner died today – 17 years ago

Journalist Harry Reasoner was born on April 17, 1923 in Dakota City, Iowa. He said, “When 25 percent of the population believe the President should be impeached and 51 percent of the population believe in UFOs, you may or may not need a new President, but you definitely need a new population.” [Hmmmmmm. Hmmmmmmm.]... Mr. Reasoner died on August 6, 1991 in Westport, Connecticut.

Cedric Hardwicke died today – 44 years ago

Actor (in The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Around the World in Eighty Days) Cedric Webster Hardwicke was born on February 19, 1893 in Lye, Worcestershire, England. Mr. Hardwicke died on August 6, 1964 in New York City, New York.

Josh Ryan Evans died today – 6 years ago

Actor (in Ally McBeal and Passions) Joshua Ryan Evans was born on January 10, 1982 in Hayward, California. He said, “It's not the size of the dreamer, it's the size of the dream.” [So make them real big.]... Mr. Evans died on August 5, 2002 in San Diego, California.

Alec Guinness died today – 8 years ago

Actor (in Doctor Zhivago) Alec Guinness de Cuffe was born on April 2, 1914 in Paddington, London, England. Mr. Guinness died on August 5, 2000 in Midhurst, West Sussex, England.

Richard Burton died today – 24 years ago

Actor (in The Comedians) Richard Burton was born as Richard Walter Jenkins on November 10, 1925 in Pontrhydyfen, Wales, UK. He said, “If you're going to make rubbish, be the best rubbish in it.” [Well, one’s trash IS another’s treasure.]... Mr. Burton died on August 5, 1984 in Céligny, Switzerland.

Judy Canova died today – 25 years ago

Actress (in Louisiana Hayride) Judy Canova was born as Juliette Canova on November 20, 1913 in Starke, Florida. Ms. Canova died on August 5, 1983 in Hollywood, California.

Marilyn Monroe died today – 46 years ago

Actress (in All About Eve and The Misfits) Marilyn Monroe was born as Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles, California. She said, "Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul." [Hollywood might pay it, but it's you who decides to sell.]... Ms. Monroe died on August 5, 1962 in Brentwood, Los Angeles, California.

Lorenzo Music died today – 7 years ago

Writer (for the Bob Newhart Show), actor (on The Gummi Bears), voice artist (of Garfield), and the doorman Carlton (on Rhoda) Lorenzo Music was born as Gerald David Music on May 2, 1937 in Brooklyn, New York. Mr. Music died on August 4, 2001 in Los Angeles, California.

Victor Mature died today – 9 years ago

Actor (in One Million B.C. and No, No, Nanette) Victor Mature was born on January 29, 1913 in Louisville, Kentucky. He said, “Hollywood is a place where the stars twinkle until they wrinkle.” [Unless cosmetic surgery helps... or not.]... Mr. Mature died on August 4, 1999 in Rancho Santa Fe, California.

Christopher Hewett died today – 7 years ago

Actor (in Mr. Belvedere) Christopher Hewett was born on April 5, 1922 in Worthing, Sussex, England. Mr. Hewett died on August 3, 2001 in Los Angeles, California.

Ida Lupino died today – 13 years ago

Actress (in Devotion) Ida Lupino was born on February 4, 1918 in Camberwell, London, England. Ms. Lupino died on August 3, 1995 in Los Angeles, California.

Carolyn Jones died today – 25 years ago

Actress (in The Addams Family) Carolyn Sue Jones was born on April 28, 1930 in Amarillo, Texas. She said (when Gomez said, “The L stands for Lucifer.”), “Very appropriate for a politician.” [Are they that bad? Watch for yourself.]... Ms. Jones died on August 3, 1983 in West Hollywood, California.

Lenny Bruce died today – 42 years ago

Comic Lenny Bruce was born as Leonard Alfred Schneider on October 13, 1925 in Mineola, New York. He said, “The ‘what should be’ never did exist, but people keep trying to live up to it. There is no ‘what should be,’ there is only what is." [Don’t you want more than what is?]... Mr. Bruce died on August 3, 1966 in Los Angeles, California.

Flannery O'Connor died today – 44 years ago

Author Mary Flannery O'Connor was born on March 25, 1925 in Savannah, Georgia. She said, “Everywhere I go, I'm asked if I think the universities stifle writers. My opinion is that they don't stifle enough of them. There's many a best seller that could have been prevented by a good teacher.” [So don’t get stifled.]... Ms. O’Connor died on August 3, 1964 in Baldwin County, Georgia.

Thorstein Veblen died today – 79 years ago

Author (of The Theory of the Leisure Class - we could all become wealthier by following Murray N. Rothbard's Man, Economy, and State) Thorstein Veblen was born as Tosten Bunde Veblen on July 30, 1857 in Cato, Wisconsin. He said, “All business sagacity reduces itself in the last analysis to judicious use of sabotage." [Oh, don’t be so negative.]... Mr. Veblen died on August 3, 1929 in Menlo Park, California.

Ron Townson died today – 7 years ago

Singer (in The Fifth Dimension) Ron Townson was born on January 29, 1933 in St. Louis, Missouri. He sang, “Let the sunshine, let the sunshine in, the sunshine in.” [And let it into your mind.]... Mr. Townson died on August 2, 2001 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Shari Lewis died today – 10 years ago

Ventriloquist and puppeteer (of Lamb Chop) Shari Lewis was born as Sonia Phyllis Hurwitz on January 17, 1933 in New York City, New York. She said, “Self esteem comes from doing something and accomplishing something.” [So, DO IT!]... Ms. Lewis died on August 2, 1998 in Los Angeles, California.

William S. Burroughs died today – 11 years ago

Author (of Naked Lunch) William Seward Burroughs II was born on February 5, 1914 in St. Louis, Missouri. He said, “Which came first: the intestine or the tapeworm?" [Perhaps it was just lookin’ for a better home... Or did it have something to do with this?]... Mr. Burroughs died on August 2, 1997 in Lawrence, Kansas.

Totie Fields died today – 30 years ago

Comedian (in Toast of the Town) Totie Fields was born as Sophie Feldman on May 7, 1930 in Hartford, Connecticut. She said, “I've been on a diet for two weeks and all I've lost is fourteen days." [And you won't be getting them back,.. unlike the pounds.]... Ms. Fields died on August 2, 1978 in Los Angeles, California.

Alexander Graham Bell died today – 86 years ago

Inventor (with hydrofoils) Alexander Graham Bell was born on March 3, 1847 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He said, “America is a country of inventors, and the greatest of inventors are the newspaper men." [Does that include the lies?]... Mr. Bell died on August 2, 1922 in Beinn Bhreagh, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Enrico Caruso died today – 87 years ago

Singer (of Vesti la Giubba and many, MANY other songs) Enrico Caruso was born as Errico Caruso on February 25, 1873 in Naples, Italy. He said, “I'll take Vesuvius!” [I’ll Take Manhattan.]... Mr. Caruso died on August 2, 1921 in Naples, Italy.

Horace Mann died today – 149 years ago

Educator Horace Mann was born on May 4, 1796 in Franklin, Massachusetts. He said, “Education, then, beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of men—the balance-wheel of the social machinery." [How exactly does acquiring more knowledge lead to equalizing anything?]... Mr. Mann died on August 2, 1859 in Yellow Springs, Ohio.

Paddy Chayefsky died today – 27 years ago

Author (of Altered States) Paddy Chayefsky was born as Sidney Aaron Chayefski on January 29, 1923 in the Bronx, New York City, New York. He said, “You British plundered half the world for your own profit. Let's not pass it off as the Age of Enlightenment." [Could it be?]... Mr. Chayefsky died on August 1, 1981 in New York City, New York.

Frances Farmer died today – 38 years ago

Actress (in Rhythm on the Range) Frances Elena Farmer was born on September 19, 1913 in Seattle, Washington. She said, “If a person is treated like a patient, they are apt to act like one." [So tell ‘em to get up and get goin’.]... Ms. Farmer died on August 1, 1970 in Indianapolis, Indiana.