THE PUBLIC MIND: IT'S TIME TO MOVE AHEAD FROM PREDICTION

Dear Editor:

As we all know, Dr. Iben Browning recently made a projection of a 50-50 chance of an earthquake to occur during the first part of December. He did not make a prediction that one would occur, but a projection that one might occur.

We must all take responsibility for how it snowballed out of proportion. We were first made aware of the projection by the media. Television, newspapers and radio alike were all responsible for reporting their facts and views. It seemed not one of them wanted to be outdone by their competitors. The television coverage went from local level to national level; the headlines became BIGGER and BOLDER: and the DJ's on the radio always had a comical, lighthearted tidbit to add the spice.

We as the public should take our fair share of the blame also. Family members, co-workers, friends, and strangers were all guilty of adding their comments which made Browning's projection snowball even more.

It was a necessity for family members to discuss precautions with their children, soothe their fears, and answer their endless questions. It was not uncommon for a geographically distant family member to call and give us their advice. Co-workers discussed safety factors in their workplace as well as talked about who was going to take a "vacation" or be "sick" the first week in December. Friends continued talking with one another about their families, co-workers, and the earthquake. Strangers were actually heard speaking to one another about the "quake" in stores as they piled their carts with emergency supplies or tried to manage a heavy-duty plastic trash can up a crowded aisle.

A sense of comraderie seemed to develop among people all along the earthquake faultline and surrounding areas. It was common ground which made a good avenue for open communication and speculation. It was easy to talk about so we did!

Many have said our economy has suffered, but it can not be entirely Dr. Browning's fault. (no pun intended). Our area has suffered economically and will probably continue to do so in the future for various reasons. We realize however, that several industries such as can opener companies, battery manufacturers, distilled water facilities, and numerous others all gladly took our money to their banks. We must remember that we, as well as the media, played a major role in broadcasting and publishing his projection from coast to coast on a weekly, daily and hourly basis.

I admire Dr. Browning for having the courage to stand up and vocalize his convictions. He believed we were in danger and made us aware of the information as he saw it knowing he would most likely be ridiculed by many. How many times can we say we have taken a stand or voiced our opinion regardless of the consequences? It is usually much easier to remain silent.

Earthquake or emergency preparedness has been a main topic of conversation for the past several months. Families, businesses, and schools have all learned valuable information. As a result of the projection and the media blitz, we are all more aware and more prepared for all types of emergencies whether they be tornadoes, fires, floods, or earthquakes. For this, we should all be grateful.

It is now time to move forward and get on with our lives. We have always known disasters of any kind can happen at any given time, and often when we least expect them. This will continue to be so.

We should all remember many things we talk about as individuals to one another will probably be repeated. Let us hope, if it is repeated, it will not be distorted, not be taken out of the context, and not be exaggerated ...

Sonya Bock

(One who chose not to remain silent and will probably be made to look foolish.)