Abruzzo News: 21 January 2000

Unconventional Mario Spallone, 82-year-old mayor of Avezzano, spoke on the national TV for reopening brothels (now illegal) in Italy, since night-clubs are becoming dangerous places. He also spoke for closing discos at 1 am (every week many youths die in car crashes after leaving discos) and allowing the sale of light drugs to fight pushers.

81-year-old Alberto Tenisci, who had been quarreling for a long time with his neighbour Maria Pia Paolini about the borderline of their adjoining properties (the woman had allegedly picked up vegetables on his land) waited in hiding with his big rifle for her to pass by. Then he fired, but missed her. He is accused of attempted murder.

Traditional celebrations for Sant'Antonio Abate, repeated since 1854 with livestock blessing and the distribution of the "pane di Sant'Antonio", with allegedely magical healing powers. Then folk bands and fireworks.