Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in History for Dec. 1: In 1680, a comet appeared close to Earth and was clearly visible until the end of February. In 1841, the first copyright in Canada was issued for "A Canadian Spelling Book.

Today in Music History for Dec. 1: In 1884, Saskatoon’s first concert was presented by the Pioneer Society. It featured solos, duets, choruses, readings and recitations. In 1913, Broadway musical star Mary Martin was born in Weatherford, Texas.

Celebrity Birthdays for Nov. 30: Country singer-record company executive Jimmy Bowen is 86. Director Ridley Scott is 86. Movie writer-director Terrence Malick is 80. Leo Lyons, bass guitarist with Ten Years After, is 80.

Today in History for Nov. 30: In 1667, Irish writer and satirist Jonathan Swift was born. In 1782, a preliminary peace treaty ending the American War of Independence was signed between Britain and the United States.

Today in Music History for Nov. 30: In 1915, blues singer and guitarist Brownie McGhee, best known for his collaborations with harmonica player Sonny Terry, was born in Knoxville, Tenn.

Celebrity Birthdays for Nov. 29: Blues musician John Mayall is 90. Actress Diane Ladd is 88. Musician Chuck Mangione is 83. Singer-keyboardist Felix Cavaliere of The Rascals is 81. Rock guitarist Barry Goudreau, formerly of the group Boston, is 72.

Today in History for Nov. 29 In 1530, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, adviser to King Henry VIII of England, died.

Today in Music History for Nov. 29: In 1880, the 1,100-seat Grand Opera House opened in Hamilton, Ont. It gave the city a proper auditorium for theatrical and musical presentations, and attracted top North American touring companies.

Celebrity Birthdays for Nov. 28: Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. is 94. Gary Troxel of the '50s pop group The Fleetwoods is 84. Singer-songwriter Bruce Channel is 83. Singer Randy Newman is 80. Movie director Joe Dante is 77.

Today in History for Nov. 28: In 1520, the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan reached the Pacific Ocean after passing through the South American strait that now bears his name.