Editor, Smithfield Times

    A very successful first of the New Year Smithfield Community Blood Drive was held on Thursday, Jan. 14. The Blood Drive had 107 donors sign in. The goal set by the American Red Cross was to receive 83 units. The end results were 91 whole blood units and four double red cell units for a total of 95 units of blood to the local Mid-Atlantic Region. A great turnout from the community and a great start to the New Year.

    Special thank you to our Sponsor and Canteen provider, The Smithfield Women’s Club organizers Co-Chairs Debi Postma and Debra Thurston and the Club’s ladies for their all day energy level and support. The Women’s Club really did shine in the canteen by putting out some super foods of soups, sandwiches and treats this year.

    Thanks to the Smithfield Union Masonic Lodge #18 for setting up and taking down tables and chairs and Dan and Rita Belott, Elizabeth Shepherd and Terry Watts for their distribution of flyers to local establishments and to Trinity United Methodist for the use of their facilities. A Big thank you to all the patrons, businesses, and organizations that supported the Community Blood Drive. A sincere thank you to each “Hero” from across the area (and you know who you are) who unselfishly took the time to roll up their sleeves and donate the Gift of Life.

    The next Smithfield Community Blood Drive, always at Trinity United Methodist Church and always on Thursday, is March 24th from noon to 6 p.m. The Sponsor and supporting Canteen will be the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 49 of Smithfield. We always have fun, seeing old friends and meeting new friends and the great food is always an award in itself; so set the date, join us and donate.

    Blood to save lives is needed every 2 seconds in the United States and our own Mid-Atlantic Region uses 700 units a day. Again, thank you to all our Heroes, who make our Community proud by taking the time out of their day to donate the Gift of Life for every unit of blood given will save three lives.

Willie Rountree
Rescue