Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in Music History for Aug. 6: In 1939, Canadian tenor Paul Trepanier was born in Noranda, Que. In 1940, the Vancouver company "Theatre Under the Stars" opened its first season at Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park.

Today in Music History for Aug. 8: In 1911, Canadian violinist Frederick Grinke was born in Winnipeg. He was known for his performances of 20th-century English music.

Celebrity Birthdays for July 25: Singer-guitarist Bruce Woodley of The Seekers is 83. Drummer Jim McCarty of The Yardbirds is 82. Bassist Verdine White of Earth, Wind and Fire is 74. Supermodel Iman is 70. Cartoonist Ray Billingsley ("Curtis") is 68.

Today in Music History for July 25: In 1874, "The Maple Leaf Forever," one of Canada's most famous patriotic songs, was said to have been performed for the first time during the laying of the foundation stone for the Christian Baptist Church in Newma

Today in History for July 25: On this date: In 325, the Council of Nicea closed. Regarded as the first ecumenical council, its 300 attending bishops drafted the Nicene Creed and fixed the formula for Easter Sunday.

Today in History for July 23: On this date: In 1621, the Virginia colony was granted the New World's first written constitution. In 1767, the Prince Edward Island land lottery was held in London, England.

Celebrity Birthdays for July 24: Political cartoonist Pat Oliphant is 90. Actor Dan Hedaya is 85. Actor Chris Sarandon is 83. Actor Robert Hays ("Airplane!") is 78. Actor Michael Richards ("Seinfeld") is 76. Actress Lynda Carter is 74.

Today in Music History for July 24: In 1725, John Newton, an English slave ship's captain, was born. He was converted to Christianity at age 22, and entered the Anglican ministry.

Today in History for July 24: On this date: In 1216, Cencio Savelli was consecrated Pope Honorius III. During his 11-year pontificate, he confirmed two well-known religious orders: the Dominicans in 1216 and the Franciscans in 1223.

Celebrity Birthdays for July 23: Actor Ronny Cox is 87. Andy Mackay, horn player with Roxy Music, is 79. Actor Larry Manetti ("Magnum, P.I.") is 78. Singer David Essex is 78. Singer-songwriter and former U.S. Congressman John Hall (Orleans) is 77.