May 12: Comings and Goings

Birthdays are a wonderful daily occurrence in our lives. It is rare to weave through one's day without becoming privy to an announcement or celebration of a birthday or two, whether they belong to family, friends, or other eminent figures. Remembering those who have passed each day is, perhaps, just as noteworthy an endeavor, for if their memories are kept alive, one might argue, so too are their spirits.

Here is a sampling of May 12 honorees:

Birthdays

Jason Biggs - Here's an early starter. Mr. Biggs, who was born on this date in 1978 in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, began his career at the age of five in the TV program, "Drexell's Class." He vaulted to stardom as Jim Levenstein in American Pie and its sequels, and has remained active in films and Broadway ever since. Though he is often cast in Jewish roles, he is a Catholic Italian-American.

Tony Hawk - Born on this day in San Diego, California in 1968, Mr. Hawk became synonymous with skateboarding at an early age. He was professional skateboarder at 14 years old, and was universally acclaimed as the best skateboarder in the world by age 16. He eventually would win 73 professional contests before retiring from competitive skateboarding in his early '30's.

Yogi Berra - Is there anyone who doesn't know who Yogi Berra is? A catcher for the New York Yankees during their dynasty years, he shared center stage with the likes of Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Phil Rizzuto, Whitey Ford and many more. He was welcomed by Cooperstown in 1972, and has the distinction of being one of only four players to be named the Most Valuable Player of the American League three times. He was also one of only six managers to lead teams in both the American and National Leagues to the World Series. Lawrence Peter Berra was born on this day in St. Louis, Missouri in 1925.

Deaths

Joseph Bonanno - Born in Sicily in 1905, Giuseppe "Joe Bananas" Bonanno eventually became the boss of the Bonanno crime family. It is believed Bonanno is one of the models for the character Vito Corleone in Mario Puzo's "The Godfather." They had key features in common - the desire to have their sons succeed them, and their stated vitriol for the narcotics rackets. Considering the very nature of his position in the Mafia made him a target for law enforcement and other underworld enemies, he was able to retire to Tucson, Arizona and lived there to the age of 97.

Perry Como - Simply one of the greatest singers and recording artists of our time, Perry Como's career spanned an amazing 50-plus years. His easy vocal platform rendered him a favorite of all generations, and his personality was extraordinarily welcoming. His network television show was phenomenally popular for 13 years, even outdistancing Jackie Gleason during his heyday. His Christmas and other holiday specials were staples of most American homes seemingly forever. He passed away on this day in 2001 at the age of 88.