Seamus Heaney, Irish Poet And Nobel Laureate, Dies At 74
Irish poet Seamus Heaney has died in Dublin at the age of 74. He was one of the world's best-known poets. In 1995 he won the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Europe
British Prime Minister's Call For Action In Syria Stalls
In London, Prime Minister David Cameron had planned to get backing from Parliament Thursday – approving a possible military intervention. Instead, he's been forced to back down. The Labour Party announced it would vote against military action in Syria.
Finns Dominate Mobile Phone Throwing World Championship
The 2013 Mobile Phone Throwing World Championships in Finland have crowned a winner in the Women's category — Asa Lundgren from Sweden. Audie Cornish and Robert Siegel have more.
Beachgoers In Spain Face Invasion Of Jellyfish
Known for its sparkling turquoise waters and white sand, Spain's Mediterranean beaches are developing a new reputation — for a growing number of jellyfish. Scientists blame overfishing and, possibly, climate change for the spike in stinging invertebrates.
Survey Asks Britons How Often Bedsheets Are Changed
The mattress company Ergoflex sponsored the survey. Among men aged 18 to 25, more than half said they put fresh sheets on just four times a year. Half of those guys said they thought this was perfectly fine.
Madrid Creates 'Acoustic Protection Zone'
In downtown Madrid, music floats through the air — amateur musicians playing for money. But many are not that good. To shield residents from mediocre musicianship, the city created an "acoustic protection zone." Buskers who wish to perform will be talent tested.
English Debate What To Do With Richard III's Remains
More than 500 years after the Wars of the Roses, the English are again fighting over Richard the Third. Archaeologists from the University of Leicester last year unearthed his remains under a parking lot in the city. Leicester Cathedral has earmarked more than a million pounds to give him a proper burial. But not so fast say the people of York.
Relying On Old Artisan Ways, French Brand Makes Itself Anew
Founded in the mid-19th century, luxury leather goods maker Moynat won renown for its traveling trunks for the moneyed set. But it fell on hard times and closed in the 1970s. Now, it's undergoing a rebirth, turning out limited quantities of luxurious, handmade bags that utilize centuries-old craftsmanship.
French Maker Of Military Rafts Gets An American Identity
Zodiac produces most of the inflatable rafts used by the U.S. military. But a California company challenged that contract, saying it violates a requirement that the Defense Department use products made with American material and by U.S. workers. In response, Zodiac set up a factory in Maryland.
Italy's First Black Minister Finds Herself A Target Of Slurs
Congo-born Cecile Kyenge's appointment in April as integration minister was hailed as a landmark for diversity. Instead, the mood of racial progress in Italy has suffered. The debate highlights growing intolerance and what the prime minister has called a shameful chapter for the country.