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Carryin’ signs

On the one-year anniversary of the war in Iraq, protesters around the globe gathered to mark the date. About 140 protesters in Chico voiced their opposition. Beginning with the usual Saturday vigil at the corner of Main and Third streets, the sign-carrying, slogan shouting throng walked south to Sixth Street, over to Broadway and north to the Downtown Plaza Park, where it was met with news of a pipe-bomb threat and the menacing flyer (inset) that was glued to what remains of the old gazebo. Chico police checked trash cans, bushes and under the gazebo stage for signs of the bomb, while the protest went forth. Sgt. Ford Porter said the police had received a cell-phone call with poor reception warning of the bomb. Protesters were informed, but most stayed.