Thursday, I went to donate blood. Anyone who knows me knows I can't stand needles, but a fellow Soroptimist member and amazing woman Marge Sasso recently passed after a four-year battle with cancer, and I thought of how brave she was, so setting fear aside, I went to donate.
Only one in every 20 people donate. One pint of blood saves three lives, and it only took eight minutes out of my life to help someone.
While I was there, I got to talking - while trying to not look at the needle in my arm - to a very kind gentleman named Michael Lashkoff. He is a regular donor. Every two weeks, Michael gets hooked up to this machine for about an hour and a half and gives his platelets. So far, he has donated 316 units. I was privileged that day to meet someone completely committed to saving lives.
Michael's generous gift helps treat diseases such as leukemia, cancer or aplastic anemia. So don't be afraid - Colleen, Natasha and Karen made my visit one I plan on repeating. My hope is that when you get done reading this you will call and set up appointment.
The motto for United Blood Services is "Give Blood. Be a Hero." You never know, you might meet a hero like Michael and get to say thank you for the 316 lives he has helped save.
UNITED BLOOD SERVICES
What: Donation of blood or platelets
Where: 256 E. Winnie Lane
When: Anytime Ð It takes about 10 minutes to donate one pint of blood. Platelet donations can take from 1-2 hours, and you need an appointment.
Contact: 887-9134 or www.UnitedBloodServices.org
•••
Have you seen the blue pigs around Carson City?
If you look around town you can find some very cute Blue Piggy Banks. The piggies are collecting money for the Carson City Elks Lodge No. 2177 who, since 1990, has helped assist abuse and neglected children receive emergency placement.
The money the Elks raise is used to support the caretakers that these kids need. Not one penny is used for salaries or administration; it's always nice to hear that your money is given 100 percent to assist the children.
The pigs will be out until after the Nevada Day Parade, so seek them out and toss in your spare change or a large check and help a child in Nevada. Remember, if we don't save the children, we can't save ourselves.
NEVADA ELKS PROJECT
SAFE HAVEN
Who: Nevada Elks and local Carson City Elks Lodge No. 2177
What: Money to help assist abused and neglected children throughout the state
Where: Keep your eyes peeled, or call for locations
When: Until after Nevada Day, Oct. 27
Contact: 882-2177 or www.elks.org
•••
Western Nevada College is teaming up with the Carson City Recreation Department to help children learn the basics and new skills on the basketball court. Grab a basketball and hit the hardwood for this fun day of dribbling and a little one-on-one.
BASKETBALL FUN-DAMENTALS
Who: Western Nevada College for Kids
What: All-day basketball clinic co-sponsored by the Carson City Recreation Department
Where: Community Center Gymnasium, 851 E. William St.
When: Check-in time 7:45Ð8:30 a.m., clinic 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday
Cost: Early registration $40, late registration at door $45
Contact: 445-4268
Each year on the Saturday before Halloween, Carson City celebrates its past with a tour of historic homes, some of which people believe are haunted by previous residents.
You know when it's getting close because the spirits begin to rise to greet visitors on the annual Kit Carson Trail Ghost Walk.
This year's theme is "Something Wicked This Way Comes." The fun begins at Telegraph Square and features a 90-minute walking tour of the beautiful Victorian houses in the historic district. The experience gives locals and visitors alike the chance to decide for themselves if the ghosts of the past still inhabit the buildings of old Carson.
Kit Carson Trail GHOST WALK
Who: Carson City Redevelopment Authority and Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau
What: A chilling walking tour of the historic district with spirits of the past
Where: Tours depart every 30 minutes from Telegraph Square
When: Saturday. First tour at 9 a.m., last tour at 3 p.m.
cost: $15
Contact: 687-7410, or for advanced tickets call 1-800-NEVADA-1 or 775-687-7410
• To have your information included, contact Kim Riggs at kimriggs@att.net.
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