Blood donors honored during National Blood Donor Month

While the need for blood is constant, particular times of year present unique challenges for blood collection. January is among the more difficult months, Red Cross officials say, simply because of cold and snowy weather that makes it hard for some people to come to donate.

“If all eligible donors gave at least twice a year, it would greatly help in maintaining an adequate blood supply for our country,” said Baker. “By getting their start in January, donors may find they have the time for one, two or even more lifesaving opportunities throughout the year.”

To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Bring a Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.

Bowling fundraiser set
The  American Cancer Society will host a “Bowling for Boobs” fundraiser Jan. 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Bay Center Recreation on Navarre Avenue in Oregon.

The event will include two games of bowling and shoes for $10, a 50/50 raffle, games and prizes. Proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Oregon, which will be held May 21 at Clay High School.

After the bowling event, there will be a post-party at Yeeha’s Buckin’ bar and Grill featuring live entertainment by Big Ticket. Proceeds from the show will also be donated to Relay for Life.

Fritzen Frozen
Fritzen Frozen, a Family Winterfest, will be held Jan. 31 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Oak Shade Grove in Oregon.

The event will offer free family fun for kids of all ages, including food and drinks, ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rids, games and prizes, a dance hall with DJ and an appearance by Ronald McDonald.

The cost of admission is an item to stock the Ronald McDonald House – baking supplies, laundry room items, bedroom and bathroom cleaners, personal hygiene items, gift cards and family and children’s DVDs.

The evening before, an Adult Winterfest will be held from 6 p.m. to midnight. The event, which also benefits the Ronald McDonald House, will include DJ and live music, a cash bar and food available. Admission is $10 per tcikt.
 

Yoga Day
To help spread the health and wellness benefits of yoga, the Yoga Teachers of Northwest Ohio will host a low-cost all-day or half-day event  as part of Yoga Day USA Jan. 23 at The University of Toledo Recreation Center (across from the Glass Bowl).

Admission is $15 for the entire day or $10 for a half day.   Several Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) have designed classes to meet the unique needs of their local communities.

For more information, visit www.yogadayusa.org or follow Yoga Day USA on Twitter or Facebook.

Adoption support
The Adoption Healing Support group meets the fourth Monday and second Wednesday each month at 7 p.m. at Park Church, 1456 Harvard Blvd. (orner of Harvard Boulevard and Glendale Avenue), Toledo.

The meetings are open to all people affected by adoption.  For more information, cal 419-260-5782 or 419-727-8302.