Friday, April 24, 2009

Washington civic groups recognized

Washington service organizations were honored yesterday for organizing blood drives during a ceremony at the UP Church. Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Donor Resources Director Amanda Hess says a blood drive in Washington, usually brings in about 100 units. She says that's an a excellent showing for a community this size. Hess says only five percent of Americans are eligible to give blood, but one in five people entering U.S. hospitals need it. Washington Mayor Sandra Johnson received the humanitarian award on behalf of the city's civic groups. She says they'll find a special spot in city hall for it to be displayed.