Editor, Times-Union: As we approach the Christmas Holidays, I am reminded of the old adage: "It is better to give than to receive." Certainly one can take great joy in giving a present to a child, spouse, family member or respected friend. How much greater this satisfaction when the one that will receive the gift is unknown - and most likely will never be known. Such is the case when you take the time to donate blood, and provide the gift of life. How appropriate to provide this gift as we look forward to Christmas.
Residents of Kosciusko County will have several opportunities to donate blood during December. The following schedule outlines the times and locations for blood drives, which will be "open" to the public: Today, Winona Lake Presbyterian Church, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Warsaw Center Lake pavilion, noon to 6 p.m.; Dec. 20, North Webster Church of God, 2 to 7 p.m.; Dec. 21, Lake City Bank Training Center, Buffalo Street, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition, blood drives will be held at several local sites, which will be "closed" to the public, including Zimmer Corp., R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co., and DePuy Corp. Employees, students and staff are encouraged to contact their organization regarding dates, times and locations.
The Christmas holidays present several challenges for blood donors as our schedules become very hectic, and weather can deteriorate quickly causing it to be difficult to travel. I want to encourage you to donate blood during December, if possible, because blood supplies can dwindle quickly, and it is difficult to build up the supply if bad weather prevails for a long period of time.
Please remember that all donors must be 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, an be in generally good health. You can easily make an appointment to donate by calling 800-GIVE LIFE (800-448-3543). Of course, "walk-ins" are always welcome.
Our best wishes to all of our volunteers and donors who work together to make our blood program successful, for a wonderful holiday season.
Larry E. Peppel Executive Director American Red Cross Kosciusko County Chapter
Careful With Animals
Editor, Times-Union: Are you considering a puppy for a gift for your children at Christmas?
If so, do your research. Someone in our area is breeding and selling Rotweiller puppies. They are probably true pure breeds. However, if you really know how the adult dogs are treated, you would never buy a puppy from them.
On Monday night, Nov. 28, a female, adult Rotweiller dog was dumped off on a county road east of Warsaw. She has been starved, her hips are failing, and she has a crushed left rear paw. We are caring for her and trying to find a rescue organization to take her. We have three dogs and five cats of our own that we care for and cannot provide a permanent home for this poor dog. But we could not turn our backs from this abuse. Not knowing her history, her age and whether or not she is carrying puppies right now, is she adoptable at the shelter? I doubt it.
If anyone read the paper a few weeks ago and learned of the sad state the shelter is dealing with in regard to lack of funds, lack of volunteers, lack of supplies and almost 400 animals dropped off in a three-month period, we will not contribute to this problem. It is only by compassionate people helping when they can that will maybe help them out. There is not a punishment I can think of bad enough for these types of people that abuse animals expect perhaps to hit their pocketbook.
The Jamison Family Claypool
Heaven Over Hell
Editor, Times-Union: Christ, Jesus, Lord, Savior, God - our Redeemer - why is the world so fearful of these precious names? Don't y'all think unless we accept and live with them daily, we won't have to worry where we will be headed? (It) will definitely be the No. 2 place. I prefer heaven, the No. 1.
