Even in times when all of us should be brought together there are vultures who will pick the bones of those whose intensions are best.

Stories are surfacing about con artists who claim to act on behalf of relief efforts in Haiti. These men and women will take checks made out to themselves or dummy relief organizations, cash them and the people of Haiti will never see the benefit.

The best defense against these predators is to give locally to organizations already known for relief efforts.

Late last week Mayor George Evans requested that residents of Selma support the American Red Cross with their Haitian relief efforts by giving money or blood donations today.

In our area, blood donations should be made at the local American Red Cross, he said.

Mr. Evans said money donations should be made at the local American Red Cross, the Baptist Association and/or the Salvation Army.

By giving through these organizations, you are assured your gifts are directed to the relief efforts.