Re: fires

[rjb@head-cfa.cfa.harvard.edu]

Peter,

yes, I've heard a great deal about it, and seen a number of pictures 
since
the weekend - its a real tragedy, and I can't say how sorry I feel for
everyone directly affected (esp those who lost homes like Ken, Mike B
and Mike D I understand), as well as for the loss of the history.

I'm so glad to hear that you and the family are ok, as well as your 
house.
I also heard about the instrument for Gemini and thats a real loss of
huge amounts of work (not to mention the science).

There have been lots of emails going around the ex-students and various
calls for the best way to help out. I know the AAS here in the US has
agreed to set up a fund to help out - but it presumably would be a drop
in the bucket for whats needed. I thought of having all the students 
send
back a copy of their theses to get the library started again - but again
these are token types of efforts. I imagine it will take time for it all
to sink in.

Its good to see the email is back and that the net is ticking - a first
step.

I hope the next steps go well..

cheers,
Roger.