Giving blood to give back

Instead of giving money or gifts, a thanks and a pint of blood will do for United Blood Services.United Blood Services will be hosting its annual Sept. 11 memorial — Heroes Remembered — on Tuesday at its office at 256 East Winnie Lane. Representatives from the armed services will be at the event and donating blood to help the United Blood Services meet its goal of 75 units of blood, said Donor Recruitment Supervisor Alana Ladd-Ross.The memorial is to both gather blood, donations have been down, and to honor and remember the “heroes from the past, the present and the future,” she said.The Navy has promised the event 22 warm bodies, many of whom will give blood, she said.Blood donations will be taken all day. The Sept. 11 memorial event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a special presentation at 3 p.m.Presenters include United Blood Services Executive Director Gary Haman, Carson City Mayor Bob Crowell, Sheriff Ken Furlong, Fire Chief Stacey Giomi and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ronni Hannaman.Red’s Old 395 Grill will provide pizza and the San Marcos Grill will be serving appetizers. The armed forces won’t be the only groups setting up; the sheriff’s office K9 deputies and their handlers will be on hand, as well as the search and rescue team, the Carson City Fire Department and the Carson City Sheriff’s Office.Blood donations will be taken from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and those wishing to donate can either walk in or make an appointment by calling 775-887-9111.Those who donate will receive a commemorative Sept. 11 T-shirt.“Please bring photos of your loved ones who serve in the armed forces or as first responders past or present for us to display in the month of September,” said Ladd-Ross.Donations also will be accepted for the armed forces and the veteran’s hospital.IF YOU GOWHAT: Heroes Remembered WHEN: Tuesday: Blood donations taken from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Special presentation at 3 p.m.WHERE: United Blood Services, 256 East Winnie LaneMORE INFO: 775-887-9111