Compiled by KATHERINE HOBY

Auditions

Auditions for the second semester intake of the Auckland University Academy of Music start today. Further auditions will be held on Sunday and Monday. For details phone academy director Rae de Lisle on (09) 373-7599 ext 8348, or e-mail academyofmusic@auckland.ac.nz

Marine lecture

Marine biologist Dr Bill Ballantine (right) will give the Auckland Museum Institute Archey Lecture at the University of Auckland tonight. The internationally respected scientist will address senior secondary school biology and science students, teachers, and the public on marine biodiversity and the benefits of marine reserves. Venue: B28 lecture room in the university library, Alfred St, 7.30 pm.

On the buses

People expecting to catch their regular bus from the Britomart bus terminal downtown will find not only have they missed the bus, but the terminal itself will soon be gone. The terminus will be demolished to prepare for the new railway station and Waitemata waterfront transport interchange. For details of the changes phone Rideline on 366-6400 or visit the Rideline website

Jazz bay

Mission Bay will be swinging to the sounds of jazz tonight, and every Wednesday night. Various musicians and singers perform in the bay's cafes and bars from 7 pm.

Teaching awards

The National Excellence in Teaching Awards Foundation wants nominations for the ASG National Excellence in Teaching Awards. Nominations for primary and intermediate teachers must be submitted and seconded by parents of pupils, and secondary teacher nominations by parents and students. Schools hhave nomination kits, or phone (09) 373-5218.

Voice training

The Dame Sister Mary Leo Foundation trustees invite applications for the 2001 vocal scholarship. Entries close on July 20. For application forms, write to the foundation at PO Box 5158, Wellesley St, Auckland 1036.

Also today ...

In 1967, heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay until his conversion to Islam in 1964) was convicted for refusing, on religious grounds, to be drafted into the US armed forces. The boxing establishment stripped him of his title and prevented him from fighting until the Supreme Court upheld his appeal in 1971. In 1984, it was first learned Ali was suffering from Parkinson's disease.

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