I think everyone here would agree that something needs to be done about an early warning system for Indonesia and the Bay of Bengal area's and unfortunately in hind sight perhaps a few people got the wake up call they wished they never received. But life if like that. So often it requires a huge pain someplace to afford change. It's so much easier to be complacent.

One thing is for sure. It will either get done as a result of the horrendous tragedy, or it won't. But I do believe those who have influence in such things will add some leverage. I read a story today about a King of a very small place who lost his grand-son, his key man and another family member in a tsunami. I'm sure he'll use a lot of leverage.

Though I fully believe in a warning system, the other part that needs to be done is to get some education to individuals and as to how that will occur, I have no idea. I don't know if the International Red Cross can address such a matter, or at least get the ball rolling. But I'll send some e-mails round and see if I can get some thoughts going on that process and follow up every quarter to see if anything is happening. It will take time and one must be patient.

As to the issue of the bad press and the scientific community communicating with anyone in time or in charge at the time, I think this should go to the desk of Charles Groat as he is diplomacy itself and let him work on it. If anyone can do this thing, believe me, he can. Who wants to write him? Chris, do you wish to volunteer? He already knows me and fortunately has already addressed some unusual issues I've put on his desk. I could go for one more, if necessary.

We can't turn the clock back and make the lives that were so precious and dear whole again, but we can do whatever it is to try to make sure it doesn't happen again. Anyone, willing and able, let's give it a try.

Petra