Meantime, all three of Japan's nuclear-plant manufacturers say they are sticking close to global business plans announced before the Fukushima quake, aided by government efforts.

WSJ: Nuclear Energy Pushes On Despite Fukushima

The Tour schedule doesn't reach Europe itself until mid-March but trips to Asia, Africa, Australasia and the Middle East should give the pros plenty to keep them occupied in the meantime, including three events this year.

BBC: THE LOWDOWN

In the meantime, he had three kids, got divorced, remarried, divorced again, bought a house, sent a son to college and became a grandfather.

NPR: Father, Daughter Face Life After Layoffs