Yo La Tengo try softly, softly approach

Yo La Tengo have booked up a series of Hanukkah shows for New York this December, but, rather sweetly, are gently acknowledging that gig tickets might seem a luxury when ATM machines are currently being turned into shredders:

As Joan Rivers asked so poignantly: can we talk? With all the economic turmoil turmoiling about us these days, it's not that easy to suggest that you spend what's left of your money with us. But if you've ever attended these Hanukkah shows before, we hope you'll agree that they are unique evenings of entertainment (and if you haven't, there are lengthy descriptions of the 2005 and 2007 editions archived in the News section at yolatengo.com). We don't take a penny from these shows, and no performer receives anything beyond their expenses.The word benefit is an often abused one, but we promise you, the money you pay is being passed along to charity.
Which brings me to the next point. Over the years, from time to time people have offered unsolicited suggestions about where we could donate the proceeds from individual shows, suggestions we have frequently taken. So let's solicit them this year: If you work for a non-profit organization, don't hesitate to tell us about it. We can't guarantee that we'll select you as one of our recipients, but we will absolutely consider it.

They're polite, everyone benefits; it's a seasonal glow.