December 4, 1997

Leaders of over 120 nations gather, Ottawa, to sign comprehensive ban on global production and use of antipersonnel land mines; pledge resources and money to clear existing mines, which kill or maim thousands each year; citizens' groups and nongovernment institutions played lead role in drafting treaty, whose rapid success surprised even ban's most ardent advocates; United States, China and Russia took part in talks but will not sign treaty; photo (M)

Images of the Virgin Mary assembled in Newark. PAGE B15 Separatist movement makes inroads with city workers. PAGE B3 A lease for Radio City Music Hall keeps Rockettes kicking. PAGE B10

Special report Technology In Waiting focuses on public indifference to irradiation as way to rid food of harmful bacteria; process, newly approved for red meat and approved years ago for chicken, fruits and vegetables is little used despite relatively low cost; it remains to be seen whether recent outbreaks of food poisoning and recalls of meat contaminated with E coli bacteria will spur consumer demand for irradiated foods; photos (L)

Caryn James Critic's Notebook on Men of Crisis: The Harvey Wallinger Story, newly-resurfaced mock documentary made by Woody Allen in 1971 but never shown on television; reports that short film offers preview of Annie Hall, Allen's first truly brilliant work six years later; says satire of Nixon Administration is at time hilarious and at times dated, but is nothing for Allen to be ashamed of (S)

Responding to a new report warning that so-called mad cow disease might be carried by beef bones and bone marrow, the British Government has banned the sale of most cuts of beef on the bone, including ribs, T-bone steaks and oxtails. Article, page A24.