A computer scientist, Tesler’s death was covered by many publications, every one of which summarized his life as the guy who “invented” computer-based “copy & paste” functionality. Absolutely he developed that common real-world function in the virtual realm, adding one thing not easily available in the physical: repeated perfect pastes. But Tesler was much more … Read more
From This is True for 23 February 2020
After joining the Society of Jesus when he was 18, and earning degrees in mathematics, philosophy, theology, and astronomy (the latter being a doctorate from Georgetown University, the former B.S. degrees from Fordham University), Coyne became a Roman Catholic priest. His goal in life: to lead the reconciliation of theology and science. He set the … Read more
From This is True for 16 February 2020
A magician, Walton was bitten by the magic rabbit on his eighth birthday in 1940, when he was given a magic set from a magic shop in his home town of London. He married well: Jean Davenport was the daughter of the owner of the Tam Shepherds Trick Shop on Queen Street in Glasgow, Scotland, … Read more
From This is True for 9 February 2020
Born in New York City, Silverman graduated from Syracuse University, then got a master’s degree from Ohio State University. His thesis at the latter analyzed ABC’s TV programming, figuring out how it went from a ratings laggard to a powerhouse: what aspects of 77 Sunset Strip and The Untouchables helped the network’s turnaround? “I tried to figure … Read more
From This is True for 2 February 2020
Grosso grew up in New York City, and joined the NYPD. He was smart and had an aptitude for the work: he set a record for his speed from rookie to detective. And that’s where he really made his mark: Grosso and his detective partner Eddie Egan, acted on a hunch and followed some drug … Read more
From This is True for 26 January 2020
After serving in the Korean War as a helicopter mechanic, Henry became a comedy writer, actor, and director. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for The Graduate (1967), and again for Best Director for Heaven Can Wait (1978). He also wrote What’s Up, Doc?, and wrote (or co-wrote) the screen adaptations (from books) … Read more
From This is True for 12 January 2020