Alan Rankine, Scottish musician, Died at 64

Alan Rankine: A Scottish Musical Icon's Journey

Alan Rankine (May 17, 1958 – January 2, 2023), a revered Scottish musician and record producer, left an indelible mark on the global music scene, endearing himself to fans far and wide. He gained prominence as the keyboardist and guitarist for the iconic rock band, the Associates, a venture he co-founded with lead vocalist Billy Mackenzie in the late 1970s.

Early Years and Musical Passion

The musical odyssey of Alan Rankine commenced in the picturesque town of Bridge of Allan, nestled in Stirlingshire, Scotland. Raised in nurturing surroundings, moving through locales like the "posh part of Dundee," Glasgow, and Linlithgow, Alan was the son of Jim Rankine, a school inspector, and a secretary mother.

In his youth, Alan Rankine showed promise as a national-level tennis player. However, captivated by the distinctive guitar sound in Norman Greenbaum's 1969 hit, "Spirit in the Sky," he chose to pursue music instead. Standing at 5ft 8in/1.73 m, he realized the changing landscape of tennis equipment posed a challenge for his stature. Inspired and determined, he abandoned tennis to master the guitar, practicing tirelessly for up to six hours each day.

A Prolific Career Unveiled

Alan Rankine's professional journey kicked off with the cabaret band Caspian, a precursor to the acclaimed Associates. Together, they ventured into a creative realm that birthed three notable albums: "The Affectionate Punch" (1980), singles compilation "Fourth Drawer Down" (1981), and "Sulk" (1982). In 1982, Alan Rankine chose a new path, parting ways with the band just before the highly anticipated "Sulk" tour, citing Billy MacKenzie's reluctance to travel.

Post-Associates, while Billy Mackenzie pursued musical endeavors with other associates, Alan Rankine transitioned into a prolific music production career. He lent his expertise to notable artists like Paul Haig, Cocteau Twins, and the Pale Fountains.

In 1986, Rankine signed a recording contract with the Belgian label Les Disques du Crépuscule, embarking on a solo adventure. Over the years, he released three solo studio albums: "The World Begins to Look Her Age" (1986), "She Loves Me Not" (1987), and the entirely instrumental "The Big Picture Sucks" (1989).

Legacy Beyond Music

Beyond the realm of music, Alan Rankine made substantial contributions to education, notably as a lecturer at Stow College in Glasgow. His influence extended beyond the classroom, playing a pivotal role in establishing the college's in-house record label, Electric Honey. This platform became a launchpad for the careers of renowned bands like Belle and Sebastian, Snow Patrol, and Biffy Clyro.

A Gentle Farewell

On January 2, 2023, Alan Rankine's remarkable journey concluded at the age of 64, passing away peacefully at his home after a heartfelt Christmas with his family. The cause of his demise was later revealed to be heart disease.

Alan Rankine's legacy as a pioneering musician and influential producer lives on in the annals of music history. His creativity, dedication to education, and musical contributions have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of artists and music enthusiasts, a testament to a life well-lived.

Alain Acart, French Olympic sprint canoer, Died at 71

Alain Acart: A French Canoeing Icon

In the realm of sprint canoeing during the 1970s, one name stood out - Alain Acart, sometimes referred to as Alain Acard. This talented French athlete etched his name in the annals of the sport with his outstanding performances.

Born on March 28, 1951, in the scenic landscapes of France, Acart's journey in canoeing began with a passion that soon propelled him to become one of his country's most promising athletes in this sport.

Acart's career was characterized by a series of remarkable achievements. Notably, at the 1974 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships held in Mexico City, his prowess shone through as he secured a bronze medal, a testament to his exceptional abilities and unwavering dedication to canoeing.

Representing France on the grand stage of the prestigious Summer Olympics, Acart exhibited his skill and determination. One of his most notable moments came during the Montreal Olympics in 1976, where he clinched a commendable fourth-place finish in the semifinals for the C-2 1000 m category, showcasing the peak of his athletic prowess.

Acart's contributions to the sport were indeed remarkable, and his bronze medal win at the 1974 World Championships solidified his position as a canoeing legend.

Regrettably, on January 2, 2023, Alain Acart passed away at the age of 71 due to a heart attack. However, the legacy of his incredible achievements and profound impact on the world of sprint canoeing lives on, forever etched in the hearts of those who admired his talent and celebrated his sporting contributions.

Abderrahim Tounsi, Moroccan comedian, Died at 86

Abderrahim Tounsi: Morocco's Adored Comedic Maestro

Born on 27th December 1936 in the vibrant city of Casablanca, Abderrahim Tounsi was a luminary in Moroccan comedy and theater, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's cultural landscape. His life journey was one of resilience, creativity, and, above all, laughter.

Early Life: A Test of Grit

Tounsi's early years were defined by adversity as an orphan in the bustling city of Casablanca. The era of the French protectorate further complicated his life, culminating in unjust imprisonment by colonial authorities. Within the confines of his prison cell, Tounsi found solace in theater, a discovery that would redefine his life's trajectory, bringing laughter to innumerable lives.

The Meteoric Rise

Abderrahim Tounsi's rise to stardom perfectly aligned with the introduction of television in Morocco. His talent and charm swiftly endeared him to audiences across the nation. Tounsi's most iconic character, Abderraouf, emerged in the 1960s, a beloved embodiment of foolishness that won the hearts of the Moroccan people.

Portraying Abderraouf turned Tounsi into a cultural icon, transcending generations and spreading joy in countless households. His humor, grounded in everyday life and relatable situations, struck a chord with Moroccans.

Legacy of Laughter

Abderrahim Tounsi's contributions to Moroccan theater and comedy continue to be revered. His unique ability to blend humor with incisive social commentary cemented his position as a beloved figure in the nation's entertainment sphere.

On 2nd January 2023, Morocco bid farewell to this comedic legend as he passed away. Yet, his legacy of laughter and enduring impact on Moroccan culture will persist. Abderrahim Tounsi's journey, from adversity to stardom, remains an inspirational tale for budding artists and a source of joy for all who had the privilege of experiencing his comedic genius.

Abdelsalam Majali, Jordanian physician, Died at 97

 Abdelsalam Atalla al-Majali: Jordanian Physician and Statesman

Abdelsalam Atalla al-Majali, pronounced AHB-dəl sə-LAM al mə-JAH-lee, was a significant figure in Jordanian politics and a highly regarded physician. Born on February 18, 1925, in Al-Karak, Emirate of Transjordan, he made substantial contributions to his country throughout his life, serving as Prime Minister of Jordan on two occasions. His passing on January 3, 2023, marked the end of a remarkable journey.

Early Life and Education

Abdelsalam Atalla al-Majali's journey began in Al-Karak, where he was born in 1925. His educational path led him to obtain a medical degree from Syrian University in Damascus in 1949. He pursued further specialization, earning a diploma in Laryngology and Otology from the Royal College of Physicians in London in 1953. His dedication to medicine was further acknowledged when he received a fellowship from the American College of Surgeons in 1960. In 1974, he was honored with a Doctor Honoris Causa degree from Hacettepe University.

Career in Medicine and Politics

Dr. Majali's contributions extended beyond medicine. He served as the director of medical services for the Jordanian Armed Forces from 1960 to 1969, where his expertise and leadership were evident. His commitment to public health led him to become the Minister of Health from 1969 to 1971.

Throughout his career, he held several key positions, including Minister of State for Prime Ministerial Affairs from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1976 to 1979. He also served as the Minister of Education from 1976 to 1979.

Dr. Majali's influence extended to education as well. He served as the President of the University of Jordan in two separate terms, from 1971 to 1976 and 1980 to 1989. In recognition of his expertise, he was appointed as a Professor of Medicine at the University of Jordan in 1973.

His dedication to Jordan and its leadership continued as he became an advisor to King Hussein in the late 1980s.

Prime Minister and Diplomat

Dr. Abdelsalam Atalla al-Majali's political career reached its zenith when he assumed the role of Prime Minister of Jordan. He held this position from May 1993 to January 1995. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the signing of the historic 1994 Israel–Jordan peace treaty. His responsibilities extended to foreign affairs as he concurrently served as the Foreign Minister.

After his initial term as Prime Minister, he returned to lead Jordan as Prime Minister once again, serving from 1997 to 1998. Following this period of service, he was appointed to the Jordanian Senate.

Later Contributions and Legacy

In January 2003, Dr. Majali was honored with membership in the committee of patrons of the Anglo-Arab Organisation, showcasing his continued dedication to international cooperation and diplomacy.

He furthered his contributions by serving as the chairman of the Islamic World Academy of Sciences, a testament to his enduring commitment to education and knowledge sharing.

Personal Life and Passing

Dr. Abdelsalam Atalla al-Majali's remarkable journey came to an end on January 3, 2023, when he passed away at the age of 97. His legacy lives on as a prominent statesman, diplomat, and physician who dedicated his life to the betterment of Jordan and international relations.

Daniel Alicea, Puerto Rican boxer, Died at 50

 

Daniel Alicea: The Puerto Rican Boxing Champion.

Early Life and Career,

Daniel Alicea, born in 1973, was a professional boxer hailing from Puerto Rico. Specializing in the featherweight and junior lightweight categories, Alicea left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing.

The Pivotal Match Against Naseem Hamed

One of the defining moments of Alicea's career took place on June 8, 1996. On that day, he stepped into the ring to challenge Naseem Hamed for the World Boxing Organization's World Featherweight Championship. The match was held at the Telewest Arena in Newcastle, England, and was televised in the United States via the Showtime Network.

The contest started off with a bang: Alicea nearly caused an upset when he knocked Hamed down in the very first round. However, the tides turned quickly, and Alicea was stopped in the second round.

Further Career Highlights

Alicea also had a memorable encounter with Acelino Freitas, a Brazilian boxer. Despite his best efforts, Alicea was knocked out in the first round by Freitas.

Undeterred by these setbacks, Alicea went on to claim several titles:

• North American Boxing Organization
• World Boxing Council Continental Americas
• North American Boxing Federation Junior Lightweight titles

Alicea retired from the sport with an impressive record: 30 wins, 7 losses, and 2 draws in 39 contests. Of these, 22 wins and 6 losses came by way of knockout.

Personal Life and Death

In his personal life, Alicea was married to Frances Pagan and resided in Camden, New Jersey. Tragically, Alicea was diagnosed with leukemia in 2016. The cancer initially receded, but returned in 2019. Alicea succumbed to a brain bleed on September 8, 2023, at the age of 50.

Legacy

Daniel Alicea will be remembered as a stalwart of the boxing world, especially in the featherweight and junior lightweight divisions. His resilience, determination, and sportsmanship serve as an inspiration for future generations of boxers.

José María Agüero, Costa Rican football player, Died at 76

José María Agüero Araya is a name that resonates deeply with football enthusiasts, especially in his home country of Costa Rica. This illustrious figure has made significant contributions to the sport, establishing a legacy that future generations can look up to.

Early Life

Born on June 25, 1947, in the picturesque city of Alajuela, Costa Rica, Agüero showed an affinity for football from a young age. His hometown, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, became the foundation for his passion for the sport.

Career Highlights

With a stature of 1.75 m, José María Agüero stood tall, not just in height but in his playing style as well. Primarily recognized for his skills as a Defender - Centre-Back, Agüero's tactical intelligence and impeccable defensive capabilities made him a stalwart on the field.

Over the years, he donned the jersey for various clubs, leaving a mark with his unmatched dedication and finesse. As the years went by, his reputation only grew, earning him admiration and respect from both peers and fans alike.

Later Years and Retirement

Having given decades to the sport he loved, José María Agüero Araya eventually decided to hang up his boots. Though he retired from active football, his impact on the game remains undiminished. At the age of 76, Agüero is not just remembered for his on-field prowess but also for the way he embodied the spirit of the game.

Personal Details

• Date of Birth: June 25, 1947
• Place of Birth: Alajuela, Costa Rica
• Height: 1.75 m
• Citizenship: Costa Rican
• Position: Defender - Centre-Back
• Current Status: Retired

Conclusion

José María Agüero Araya is more than just a footballer; he is a symbol of dedication, passion, and resilience. His journey from the streets of Alajuela to the grand stadiums of Costa Rica serves as an inspiration for many budding athletes. Even in retirement, his legacy as a football icon continues to inspire and shape the world of football in Costa Rica and beyond.

Source: https://daddydame.com/jose-maria-aguero-football-player-died-at-76

Clairy Polak - Dutch journalist - Died at 67

Clairy Polak is a Dutch journalist and radio and television host who was born in 1956. She is most popular for her work on the BBC's Today program, which she introduced from 1998 to 2003.

Polak was brought into the world in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. She concentrated on English writing at the College of Amsterdam and afterward filled in as a writer for the Dutch paper NRC Handelsblad. She made the move to the BBC in 1987, where she was a reporter and producer for the Today program. In 1998, she turned into the principal female moderator of the program.

Polak left the Today program in 2003 to join the BBC's Newsnight program. She introduced Newsnight for a very long time, prior to leaving the BBC in 2005.

Polak has been a freelance journalist and broadcaster ever since leaving the BBC. She has presented shows for the BBC World Service and the Dutch public broadcaster NOS. She has likewise composed a few books, including a diary, "One Lady's Conflict" (2011), about her encounters as a conflict journalist in the previous Yugoslavia.

Polak is a regarded and experienced columnist. Her ability to get to the heart of a story and conduct in-depth interviews have earned her a reputation. She is likewise a skilled telecaster, with a warm and drawing in style.

In 2013, Polak was granted the Request for Orange-Nassau by the Dutch government for her administrations to news coverage.

Clairy Polak died on August 31st 2023, she was 67 years of age.