Next Monday marks the 1 year anniversary of the devastating tsunami. It was followed by earthquakes in various places around the world. Then there was Katrina. During each of this horrors, people gave generously. That is great.

Now, I would like to ask you to give again. But, slightly differently. When a natural disaster strikes, the relief organizations swing into action and collects tons of donations. Because of bad PR after 9/11 all donations earmarked for specific relief must be used only for that purpose. That means if millions are collected by the Red Cross for Tsunami relief, it can only go to those affected by the Tsunami. It cannot be used for operating expenses, or other situations. But, when there is a local disaster, or even a family displaced by a fire, those same organizations are right there helping -- without special earmarked funds. It was great so much is dedicated to specific relief. But, that means less for general relief.

So, if you can, give to your favorite charity this holiday season and tell them to use the money however they need it. It will still be put to good use. The family burned out of their home needs just as much help as the person who lost everything in a tsunami, earthquake or hurricane.

Thank you.

I originally posted this while looking back at 2005. Here is what the first two days of 2006 has brought us:

Mudslides and flooding in California
Fires wiping out entire towns in Oklahoma and Texas
Collapsed Ice Rink in Germany which killed several people -- among them children.
13 Miners Trapped by an Explosion -- fate unknown at this time.
Record breaking cold in Europe and elsewhere
Record breaking heat in Australia

All of these will require some response from local or national agencies. Give if you can to the charity of your choice. Every little bit helps.

Do your good deed for 2006 now and get it out of way so you don't have to worry about it for the rest of the year.

Well add todays severe weather outbreak... Kentucky was hit hard with quite a few tornadoes near Louisville that done extensive damage.

I had quarter sized hail where I am at and made it to 60 degrees today.

Sometimes I think it is better to give to organizations that give 100% to the disaster and not take anything out for there own, I believe the Red Cross only gives 90 cents on the dollar, while several others give 100%. I would really think hard before you give to some organizations.

Always double-check the organization. However, 90 cents out of every dollar is very good. These organizations have overhead expenses too. They have to have an office, which requires heat and light. This is people's jobs which mean they have to pay their bills too. They don't live for free or not eat. They need to be paid for the hard work they do. Trust me, in the reputable organizations, no one is getting rich by working for an aid agency. But, TANSTAAFL.

Im looking for Elizabeth Meskill if this means something to you rosetta e-mail me at aaronreb@gmail.com