Just when we thought we'd seen the worst of the damage we went south to Arugum bay. Seven months after the tsunami most people are still living in tents, makeshift lean-to's, and sleeping out in the open. Many of the little towns around the bay look like war zones. In several places we saw the roofs and tops of palm trees where entire villages remain buried beneath the sand.  Once again, this area has fallen victim to civil war and has seen little outside aid.

Arugum bay has one important asset - surfing. The surf here is excellent and uncrowded. Despite the devastation there are ample accomodations at very reasonable prices.

In addition to Nzazi's initial relief efforts during the weeks immediately after the tsunami, our group was able to perform several martial arts demonstrations for various childrens groups. On our last trip in July of 2004 we performed for a school of orphans right in the heart of Arugum bay, providing a welcome break from the rigors of school work and the harsh reality of their lives after the tsunami.