This news is one of the first to confirm a big series of ceremonies is being planned:

from Andaman News TV11 & FM90.5 Phuket broadcast at 8.30am Monday 4 July 2005 posted at http://www.thaisnews.com/show_eachnews.php?catnewsid=16

"The plan was revealed by Vice Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, Smith Dhamasaroj, who is also in charge of the National Disaster Warning Centre, during a meeting with head officials in Phuket led by Phuket Governor Udomsak Uswarangkura. According to Mr. Smith, families and friends from around the world are expected to join the 5 to 7 day grand ceremonies to be organized in all six tsunami stricken provinces. The events will be recognized nationally. Religious rituals exhibitions and activities will be held throughout the week. According to Mr. Smith, a national level committee will be set up including Governors of the affected provinces so that the ceremonies run smoothly. He also suggested that special discounts of air fares and accommodation be offered to families and friends of the victims to take part in the commemoration events. "

an update on plans:

Andaman News TV11 Phuket 8.30am Wednesday 27 July 2005

Phuket gets prepared for 1st year commemoration of the tsunami

<p> In preparation to organize the first year remembrance events for the December 26th tsunami, representatives from public and private sectors in Phuket held a meeting and brainstormed ideas on how the anniversary should be commemorated. Chaired by Phuket Governor, Udomsak Uswarangkura, the meeting proposed the themes which should be covered: in respect or remembrance of the victims, thanking those who had helped in rescue, relief and rebuilding, as well as looking ahead for a bright future to tell others the region is ready to welcome back visitors. Activities will cover religious ceremonies, remembrance sites for families and friends, as well as exhibitions and meetings of related issues. A candlelit ceremony on the beach and Tsunami sites tours were also proposed to add in the programs. The events are planned to be organized during the 23rd to 29th of December with Patong and Kamala beaches as well as the site in Mai Khao as main locations. A website especially designed for the commemoration events will also be established to provide information to all.

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