President and Mrs. Bush, former Presidents Bush and Clinton visited the embassies of the nations hardest hit by the Asian quake and tsunami: Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand. He asked both (interestingly, Carter didn't make the list) to lead a nationwide charitable fund-raising effort for victims of the Asian tsunamis, through private contributions, non-governmental and international organizations. The White House's Freedom Corps, which helps facilitate volunteer efforts around the country, will assist the two former presidents in soliciting private contributions. The president hosted a reception for new members elected to Congress and their spouses in the East Room; the...
