Hurricane season is officially here. That means for the the next six months we are likely to see named storms headed into the United States from a variety of directions. It is very possible that one or more of those storms will hit the Southeastern coast and head our way. We need to be ready.

On behalf of the American Red Cross, America's No. 1 disaster relief agency, let me recommend that all Moore County residents prepare for the likelihood of such an occurrence.

Make sure you have a weather radio with fresh batteries, a substantial supply of nonperishable food and water, plenty of prescription medicines, a first aid kit and a plan for evacuation if that becomes necessary.

We, of the American Red Cross-Moore County chapter, will be ready at a moment's notice to join with the Moore County Emergency Services to help in every way we can when the need arises. We will open shelters, house and feed victims and supply other emergency needs.

To do so, we need local citizens to help us be "Red Cross Ready" when storms come our way. Please help if you can. A check to the local Red Cross can provide the assistance we need to respond in the manner we all expect and deserve. Please consider sending a donation to P.O. Box 407, Southern Pines, N.C. 28388, or you can drop a gift by our office at 115 East Pennsylvania Avenue in Southern Pines.

We offer sincere thanks in advance for helping us all through the American Red Cross-Moore County.

A.J. "Buddy" Spong

Red Cross Director

Southern Pines