BLOOD DRIVE TO BE HELD DOWNTOWN

Tuesday's blood drive sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association comes just at the right time for the American Red Cross Missouri-Illinois Regional Blood Services.

"We are in a critical need for blood right now," said Shawnna Rhine, donor recruiter for the Red Cross. "We need all blood types."

Because of the heat and vacations of summer blood supplies across the nation are low, she said.

On Tuesday, the Red Cross trailer will be parked on Spanish Street at the bottom of the courthouse steps from noon until 6 p.m.

"The response from merchants and their employees is always quite good," said Evelyn Boardman of Madder Rose Antiques Mall, who is helping organize the drive.

Whether they will be donating at this drive or at others being held around the area, Rhine said there are several dos and don'ts for those giving blood:

-- Bring your driver's license. Donors must be age 17 or older.

-- Donors also must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.

-- Drink plenty of fluids that day.

-- Eat something. "It's best to donate on a full stomach," Rhine said.

-- Those taking medication should bring a list of what they are taking since certain medications can prevent people from donating blood.

Donating blood takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of people donating, Rhine said.