Could the ICOM infrastructure be used to facilitate and enhance the individual and institutional response to such disasters, which do happen from time to time, despite the best disaster preparedness plans. Where local laws permit, and give a financial benefit to such action, could not national ICOM committees accept individual and corporate donations and pass them on to the ICOM committee (or other, appropriately constituted body) in the locality in need? With best wishes to all, but especially colleagues facing crises, Pat -- Pat Reynolds [log in to unmask] "It might look a bit messy now, but just you come back in 500 years time" (T. Pratchett) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Change ICOM-L subscription options, unsubscribe, and search the archives at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/icom-l.html