Spare Dollars for the Red Cross

Both political parties have been amazingly successful raising money for ads that we no longer need or want to see ["McCain Able to Skirt Limits of Federal Financing," news story, Sept. 17].

Wouldn't it be great if they donated some of that money -- say, 10 percent -- to those who desperately need it at this time, such as the American Red Cross?

DAVID W. SAXTON

La Plata

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Regarding the Sept. 16 news story "Red Cross Asks Congress for Millions in Storm Aid":

Undoubtedly the American Red Cross could use an infusion of funds to not only meet the needs of victims of hurricanes Gustav and Ike but to replenish the coffers of an American institution. Although the agency turns to private donations and occasionally to the government to bail it out, there is a simple solution.

A small sentence at the top of Internal Revenue Service Form 1040 says, "Presidential Election Campaign -- Check here if you, or your spouse filing jointly, want $3 to go to this fund (see page 12)." I bet that millions of Americans would gladly donate $3 to the Red Cross if given a choice on this tax form. Result? Politicians would lose, and the American Red Cross and our citizens in need would win. What's not to like?

ARNIE DAXE

Burke

The writer is a Red Cross volunteer.