ITEMS OF INTEREST February 7, 2005 Issue

ITEMS OF INTEREST

with contributions from Constant Brand, Richard Harries, Linda Hanson

"CHURCH BELLS RANG OUT ACROSS EUROPE as shoppers, mass transit, and stock exchanges paused for a moment of silence Wednesday [January 5] in tribute to the victims of the Indian Ocean tsunami. From Italian ski resorts to the streets of Stockholm, many in Europe paused for three minutes at noon ... to reflect on the December 26 earthquake and tsunami ....

"Buses, trams, and subway trains temporarily halted service in several cities. TV and radio stations interrupted normal programs with special broadcasts, and shoppers were asked to take a moment's pause. At Europe's busiest airport, London's Heathrow, all takeoffs and landings were suspended for five minutes to not disturb the silence. Pilots were told not to taxi or even start their engines....

"In Rome, hundreds gathered outside the town hall, many with tears in their eyes, as bells tolled in several nearby churches. 'It's right to participate in this commemoration because it is a tragedy that involves everyone,' said city council employee Barbara Battani....

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