Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 192, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 August 1917 — WGAT CAN WE DO? [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

WGAT CAN WE DO?

The work of the Red Cross society Is so vast in its scope that it takes some time to become acquainted with all its activities and its purposes. But the more the public learns of its present organization the better for the society, because knowledge Inspires confidence in its methods and in the businesslike administration of its finances. Anyone who wishes to get a comprehensive view of the society, to know Its history and work, may find all the information In a book called “Under the Red Cross ’Flag,” by Mabel T. Boardman, chairman of the National Relief board, American Red Cross. The American Red Cross of today operates under new articles of incorporation, Created by act of congress and signed by President Roosevelt January 5, 1905, This gave the society a national scope and standing. In all countries having a Red Cross society the organization is made to suit local conditions, but tn each country the governing body is entitled the central committee. The central committee of the American Red Cross consists of 18 members. The president of the United States appoints the chairman and representatives of the department of state, treasury, war, justice and navy. Six members are elected by Incorporators and six by delegates of chapters, boards and affiliated bodies. committee of, 18 elects an executive, committee of seven from among its own members. At the first annual meeting, after the reorganization of the society, the com-

mittee selected William Howard Taft, then secretary of war, as president of the society. He continued to occupy this office after he became president of the United States. On retiring from the presidency he retired as president of the Red Cross. Mr. Taft considered the union of the two offices very useful. “A benefit to the United States and the world at large,” recommending that President Wilson be asked to accept the office. This course was followed, and the president gives his time and attention to th» work'of the society. It is now the official volunteer aid department of the United States, so recognized by the government and ky aH other countries having a Red Cross organization.