The responsibilities of running an operation like the ICBIE go beyond the ordinary, that’s for sure. Just as he was planning to use the relative calm of the Easter season to grab a rare day off for a trip to the beach, ICBIE president Pietro Gallina discovered that a big crack had opened at the back of the wall that runs along Rua Julio David, behind the institute. Not only could a large and heavy block have broken away, falling onto the busy sidewalk, but it also threatened a main power line. So instead of basking under the palms, Pietro had to call the electric company and organize a crew of workers to perform the necessary preventative measures, which involved cutting off the electricity, pulling down the compromised hunk of wall, and then repairing the damage. Just the materials cost €150, including a new pole for the electrical wires.
All of this, and more, in the name of cultural exchange and understanding!
