Cindy McCain, Laura Bush Lead Gustav Appeal
First Lady Laura Bush and John McCain's wife Cindy on Monday led a fundraising drive for Hurricane Gustav victims on day one of the curtailed Republican convention. "Our first priority for today and in the coming days is to ensure the safety and well-being of those living in the Gulf Coast Region," said Bush, who drew a long standing ovation as she walked onto the stage. "To all of those living in the Gulf states, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you," she said as Hurricane Gustav lashed New Orleans. "When such events occur, we are reminded that first, we are all Americans -- and that our shared American ideals will always transcend political parties and partisanship." Republican presumptive nominee John McCain ordered the suspension of most of the political activities on the convention's opening day as a mark of respect to Gulf Coast communities feeling Gustav's wrath. His wife, who stood side-by-side on stage with Bush, wh...