Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in History for Aug. 8: On this date: In 1471, Thomas Kempis, Dutch mystic and devotional author, died at age 91. His book "The Imitation of Christ" remains in print, a guide to cultivating the inner human spirit.

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 Aug. 7: American humourist Garrison Keillor is 82. Singer Lana Cantrell is 81. Actor John Glover is 80. Actor David Rasche is 80. Classical pianist Louis-Philippe Pelletier is 79. Country singer Rodney Crowell is 74.

Today in History for Aug. 7: On this date: In AD 117, Roman emperor Marcus Trajan died at age 65. His attitude toward Christianity gradually changed from toleration to persecution.

Today in Music History for Aug. 7: In 1942, singer B.J. Thomas was born in Hugo, Okla., but soon moved to Houston, Texas.

Celebrity birthdays for Aug. 6: Children's performer Ella Jenkins is 100. Actor-director Peter Bonerz is 86. Tenor Paul Trepanier is 85. Actress Louise Sorel ("Days of Our Lives") is 84. Country singer Myrna Lorrie is 84. Actor Michael Anderson Jr.

Today in History for Aug. 6: On this date: In 1623, Anne Hathaway, wife of William Shakespeare, died. In 1691, Henry Kelsey claimed the Red River Valley for Britain.

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.

Celebrity birthdays for Aug. 5: Country songwriter Bobby Braddock is 84. Actress Loni Anderson is 79. Actress Erika Slezak ("One Life To Live") is 78. Singer Rick Derringer is 77. Actress Holly Palance is 74. Singer Samantha Sang is 73.

Today in History for Aug. 5: On this date: In 1100, Henry I ascended the throne of England, three days after his brother, King William II, was killed in a hunting accident.