BLOOD DRIVES SCHEDULED IN THE REGION NEXT WEEK

The American Red Cross is appealing for blood donations. The holidays are approaching and the need for blood is higher during this time of year. From now until New Year's Day, an additional 6,000 blood donors are required over what is currently scheduled.

There is a special need for Type O donors and platelet donors.

The following blood drives are open to the public:

-- Tuesday at Chaffee High School, 109 N. Fifth St., Chaffee, 1 to 6 p.m.

-- Monday, Nov. 28, Trinity Methodist Church, 201 Court St., Bloomfield, 2 to 6 p.m.

-- Wednesday, Nov. 30, Holiday Inn, Cape Girardeau, 2 to 7 p.m.

Healthy people who donate blood regularly help assure a safe and adequate blood supply. It is safe to donate blood every eight weeks.