'U.S. Citizens' a good example of a 'charity' to beware of

Last week's column on Kiva and charities proved popular. So this week we're going to continue the theme, starting with the U.S. Citizens' Association's Web site and its commercials on cable TV.

Once you see either, it won't take long to figure out where the association's politics lie. But regardless of political persuasion -- and this association proudly proclaims the Wall Street Journal, not what you'd call a pillar of the liberal media, rejected its print ads -- spend a few minutes on its site, using the tools we've talked about in this column.

We'll try to persuade you there are worthier places to spend your charity dollars, and raise some questions you should ask about any non-profit you plan to give your money or time.