SEVERAL BLOOD DRIVES SCHEDULED IN AREA

While the Oklahoma City bombing focused nationwide attention on the need for blood donations, the American Red Cross says blood is needed all the time for surgeries and emergencies.

Volunteers can help make sure blood is available locally by participating in blood drives in the area over the next several weeks. The first is today at Central High School, 205 Caruthers, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Other upcoming blood drives will be held Thursday at the First United Methodist Church, Highway 61 North, Sikeston, from 1:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., and Friday at J.C. Penny in the West Park Mall from noon until 4 p.m..

On May 25, a blood drive will be held at Lone Star Industries, Highway 74, Cape Girardeau, from noon until 4 p.m. On May 26, a blood drive will be held at the Jackson Outreach Office, 2106 East Jackson from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.. On May 30, a blood drive will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 31 Church St., Perryville, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.

On May 31, a blood drive will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, I-55 and Route K, Cape Girardeau, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m.

For more information contact Sabrina Kalleberg at (314) 658-2176.