Tech: Apple Stores close to mourn Steve Jobs

According to Reuters, and also confirmed by Tim Cook in a internal memo, Apple will be holding a private event at their headquarters in Cupertino for all employees to celebrate the life of Steve Jobs. The event is to take place tomorrow (Oct. 19th) at 10 AM, but will remain closed to the public. This is an event to look back at the life of Steve Jobs and how he affected those at the company, as well as mourn his passing.

In accordance with this event at Apple HQ it is being said that ALL US Apple Stores will be closed during the even for retail employees to join a broadcast to company stores. It is unknown how long the stores will be closed for but The Wall Street Journal is reporting that it will be "at least an hour" but may go well into the afternoon.

Outside the US Apple Stores will likely view a re-broadcast of the private memorial, likely causing closures in each local for a short time as well. If your planning a trip to a local Apple Store over the next day (two days internationally) I would suggest a postponement.

Hit the Rawr to read Tim Cook's internal email about the event.

Team,
Like many of you, I have experienced the saddest days of my lifetime and shed many tears during the past week. But I've found some comfort in the extraordinary number of tributes and condolences from people all over the world who were touched by Steve and his genius. And I've found comfort in both telling and listening to stories about Steve.

Although many of our hearts are still heavy, we are planning a celebration of his life for Apple employees to take time to remember the incredible things Steve achieved in his life and the many ways he made our world a better place. The celebration will be held on Wednesday, October 19, at 10am in the outdoor amphitheater on the Infinite Loop campus. We'll have more details on AppleWeb closer to the date, including arrangements for employees outside of Cupertino.

I look forward to seeing you there.
Tim