Watch a video of American military heroes and the assistance they received from the Red Cross.

Harriman Award winner Donna Dorsey receives the congratulations of Red Cross Chairman Bonnie McElveen-Hunter

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5/29/2008
LOCAL RED CROSS MARKS NATIONAL CPR/AED AWARENESS WEEK
Baltimore-- Learning CPR and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from a medical emergency.  During the first National CPR/AED Awareness Week, this June 1-7, the Central Maryland Red Cross encourages everyone to learn these important skills that could someday save a life.

“The Red Cross wants the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life.  At least one person in every household and on every office floor should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED,” says Nick Geier, Red Cross health and safety director.  “On average, it takes emergency personnel 10 minutes to arrive on scene.  For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing, that may be too late.  By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from being a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control during an emergency.”

Just ask Fallston high school coach Dan Taylor who performed CPR on a bleeding and unconscious Chris Culver after the boy was hit in the face by a baseball early last month.  Taylor saved the boy’s life using skills he learned during a recent CPR class.

Just ask Owings Mills High School sophomore Chelsea Smith.  She and her mother Susan Smith saved the life of an elderly relative who collapsed during a family Seder dinner in April.  Chelsea told a reporter:  “It was scary, but I realized I was the only one there who knew what to do.” 
The Red Cross is offering a CPR training and awareness event at the Maryland Science Center on Saturday, June 14 at 11:30 and 1:30.  If you cannot attend this event, find out how to save a life by calling 410-624-2060 or visiting  www.redcross-cmd.org for more information on  health and safety courses offered throughout the year.

Red Cross Presents First Aid At Body Worlds,
Maryland Science Center, 2nd Saturdays

Visitors to the Maryland Science Center can now learn about the miracle of life-- and how to save a life-- when they attend the Body Worlds 2 exhibit. Red Cross instructors will give hands-on demonstrations of the latest CPR techniques during the second Saturday of each month at 11:30AM and 1:30PM from now until August. Body Worlds 2 features a collection of human bodies that have undergone plastination, a process developed by Dr Gunther von Hagens. The exhibit aims to educate the public about health and nutrition. For more information or to learn how your company can partner with the American Red Cross call 410/624-2060.

4/11/2008
RED CROSS GIVES TOP HONOR TO HOWARD COUNTY WOMAN WHO CALLS FOR CHANGE
Baltimore, MD— The national American Red Cross presented Donna Dorsey with the Harriman Award for Distinguished Volunteer Service, the organizations most prestigious volunteer award. Dorsey was a Red Cross of Central Maryland volunteer for more than 30 years and received the award at the recent Red Cross National Convention where she made a speech addressing the need to change to accommodate the expectations of today’s volunteer.

“We need short projects and opportunities for volunteers to enhance their careers,” she suggested. She also proposed more online training courses to make it easier for people to volunteer.

Donna Dorsey has volunteered with the Red Cross since 1976, teaching more than 100 disaster health courses and training more than 500 nurses to become Red Cross disaster volunteers. She served as board chair of the Central Maryland Chapter from 2004 to 2006. On a national level, she has flown to the scenes of numerous disasters to help the Red Cross provide food, clothing, shelter and medical care to victims. Dorsey is the winner of the Casey and Menzies Awards –the Central Maryland Red Cross chapter’s top honors. She is also the recipient of the Ann Magnussen Award honoring a volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution to Red Cross nursing programs. In 2003, she received the Florence Nightingale Award, the highest international honor offered by the Red Cross.

"When I learned I was the Harriman winner, I had to take a minute to think about the things I do as being distinguished," Dorsey added, "because I truly love what I do."

3/17/2008
STATE OFFICIALS TO RECOGNIZE CRUCIAL ROLE FO AMERICAN RED CROSS
Baltimore, MD-- American Red Cross volunteers are converging on Annapolis today to let lawmakers know the role they play in making Maryland families safer by helping fire victims, teaching CPR and First Aid and by providing a safe blood supply.

The Red Cross will honor these heroes with a reception at the Governor Calvert House. Lt. Governor Anthony Brown and dozens of delegates and senators from around the state will be on hand to recognize the organization’s services to Maryland. Red Cross volunteers and recipients of Red Cross services will personally share the ways the organization helps Marylanders prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

“Governor O’Malley and I applaud the work the Red Cross does each day to help Marylanders across the state stay prepared in case disaster strikes and to cope during the aftermath of disaster,” Lt. Governor Brown said.  “I am proud to announce that today is Red Cross Day and I salute all the Red Cross volunteers who have given of themselves to help another.”

The Lieutenant Governor will present a gubernatorial proclamation recognizing March 17 as Red Cross Day in Maryland.

The event will last from 5:30PM – 7:00PM. During the day, the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Blood Region will hold a blood drive for legislators and other state workers in the Calvert Room at the State House from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Volunteers will be positioned near Lawyer’s Mall to exhibit Red Cross emergency response vehicles. Red Cross volunteers will also be meeting with their local representatives.  

2/22/2008
CHANGES IN RED CROSS SERVICES FOR ACCOMACK, NORTHAMPTON COUNTIES
(Baltimore)— Beginning March 1, 2008 American Red Cross services to residents of Accomack and Northampton will be provided by local volunteers, but will now be coordinated by the Central Maryland Red Cross Chapter in Baltimore. 

The administrative changes come after the Red Cross Eastern Shore of Virginia Chapter incurred financial debt over a period of years.  Local volunteers will continue to work toward goals of fund raising, volunteer recruitment and enhanced community relations in the provision of Red Cross services. 

Residents or emergency personnel may call the Red Cross at 757-442-4750 to access emergency assistance, including food, shelter and clothing, after a fire or other disaster.  Calling that number will also link military members and their families to 24-hour emergency communications services provided by the American Red Cross.  

To register for health and safety classes, such as CPR and first aid training you may also call 757-442-4750.   The Red Cross is actively searching for Spanish-speaking volunteers to teach safety courses in the two counties.

2/8/2008
ELKRIDGE COMMUNITY BENEFITS FROM STUDENTS PROJECT
(Baltimore)— Wall Street brokers don’t usually think of sixth graders as investors, but students at Elkridge Landing Middle School say they are putting their funds into something guaranteed to have a big return—disaster preparedness. The students have saved spare change and money from their allowances to total over $820 that they donated to the American Red Cross of Central Maryland.

“Elkridge is a great community and this is evidence that we have great kids too,” boasts Gina Stokes, Assistant Principal at Elkridge Landing Middle School.

The students bought paper strips from their homeroom teachers for twenty-five cents each as part of the school’s service learning project. The strips are then linked together to form a “charity chain.” The homeroom that ended up with the longest chain became the benefactor entitled to decide which organization would receive the total funds raised.  The theme of the service project was Lending a Hand.

“These kids are inspiration to us all,” says Ann Heavner, Board Chair of the Howard County District of the Red Cross. “The money the students collected will go directly to help Howard County residents prevent, prepare for and cope with emergencies.”

Each year, the Red Cross assists dozens of Howard County families who have been affected by disasters, usually house fires. The organization also trains thousands of local residents in lifesaving skills such as CPR/first aid and aquatics safety.

“We were trying to sponsor programs that ‘lend a hand’ to the community,” says Kate Lloyd, Elkridge Landing Service Learning Advisor. “The kids really enjoyed it so everyone’s a winner.”

1/07/2008
CITY THEATRE STUDENTS, RED CROSS TEAM UP TO REDUCE FIRES
(Baltimore) -- The Baltimore School for the Arts senior theatre students will present a powerful safety program, “The No-Fire Show” at city elementary schools throughout January in an attempt to reduce the number of house fires in 2008. Last year fires claimed the lives of 34 people in Baltimore, many of them children. A partnership between the Red Cross of Central Maryland and BSA, the show lets children know about the dangers of playing with matches and the importance of having smoke detectors as well as a fire escape plan— presented in a mostly comic style.

A sobering and powerful performance by theatre ensemble member Chaquon Whitfield drives home the safety message. Whitfield lost her brother and cousin in a house fire 14 years ago, a blaze that nearly claimed her own life. The Red Cross helped Whitfield’s family with emergency needs while she lay in a coma.

The Red Cross Players, as the high school thespian troupe is known, will present “The No-Fire Show” at elementary schools on January 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 22. For details on times and locations, contact Linnea Anderson, landerson@arc-cmc.org, 410-624-2081.

About Baltimore School for the Arts

Founded in 1980, the Baltimore School for the Arts is recognized as one of the country's pre-eminent schools whose graduates go on to the most selective arts and university programs nationwide and achieve prominence in theater, film, music and visual arts. The Baltimore School for the Arts strives to provide young people with intensive pre-professional training in the arts, in the context of a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. For more information on the Baltimore School for the Arts, visit www.bsfa.org.

The Baltimore School for the Arts, where the arts change kid’s lives.

12/06/2007
CENTRAL MARYLAND RED CROSS RECEIVES $10,000 GRANT FROM THE HOME DEPOT
Grant Helps Red Cross Train Over 85,000 Individuals in Disaster Preparedness
(Baltimore, MD)--The Central Maryland Red Cross today announced that it has received a $10,000 grant from The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, to help educate the public about disaster preparedness. This is the second consecutive year in which the chapter has been awarded a grant through this program.

“We’re glad to help out,” said Jim Emge, District Manager of The Home Depot. “Giving back to the community is one of our core values.”

The Home Depot/American Red Cross Chapter Grants Program is part of a three-year multi-million dollar strategic partnership designed to educate one million people in disaster preparedness and to support Red Cross disaster readiness efforts. The initial goal of reaching one million people was met in year two of the partnership, but The Home Depot and the Red Cross remain committed to building stronger and safer communities. In addition to the grant program, The Home Depot also provides year-round in-kind donations to local chapters as needed for disaster relief efforts, in-store preparedness clinics developed with Red Cross expertise, and funding for Red Cross diversity and emergency services program manager training.

Nationwide last year, The Home Depot/American Red Cross Chapter Grants Program trained and educated approximately 315,000 people. Specialized disaster preparedness programs included outreach to Somali, Latino, Vietnamese, young people and deaf/hearing-impaired communities.

This year the grant was used to teach Community Disaster Education to over 85,000 people in Central Maryland. The three step program outlines the basic strategies for preparing for disasters, both natural and manmade.

“The Home Depot has a history of being a champion for its communities and providing significant relief and recovery support immediately following a disaster,” said Kelly Caffarelli, President of The Home Depot Foundation. “By partnering with the Red Cross, we are providing our communities with additional tools to help them rebound quickly and completely.”
As the world’s largest home improvement retailer, The Home Depot embraces its role as a leader in social responsibility and celebrates its long-standing commitment to volunteerism. The Home Depot is passionate about helping its neighbors and communities during times of need. Another important component of The Home Depot’s disaster relief program is to educate communities on the importance of disaster preparedness in order to help minimize the loss associated with these devastating events.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Last year, almost a million volunteers and 35,000 employees helped victims of almost 75,000 disasters; taught lifesaving skills to millions; and helped U.S. service members separated from their families stay connected. Almost 4 million people gave blood through the Red Cross, the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. The American Red Cross is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work.

About The Home Depot
The Home Depot® is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,226 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, 10 Canadian provinces, Mexico and China. In fiscal 2006, The Home Depot had sales from continuing operations of $79.0 billion and earnings from continuing operations of $5.3 billion. The Company employs approximately 350,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index.

9/21/2007
RED CROSS VOLUNTEER NEGOTIATES  HELP FOR THOSE IN NEED
(Baltimore, MD) “Of all the things I’ve done in life, this is the most rewarding,” says Steve Weiss about his two years of volunteer work with the Baltimore City and County Red Cross Disaster Action Teams.

This is strong statement. Weiss was a hostage negotiator for the U.S. Army for eight years. Now he negotiates terms in the high pressure world of finance. But he gets more of a rush from serving people devastated by disasters than from anything else he has done.

Steve got his start with the Red Cross when his girlfriend Jody returned from her stint helping the victims of Hurricane Katrina. He was so impressed with what she had done that he decided to volunteer.

Since that time Steve has had his own share of experiences by responding to numerous fires throughout Central Maryland. In January he and his fellow volunteers assisted the survivors of a fire in Abingdon, Maryland that killed a married couple and three of their grandchildren. This past July Steve was on the team that responded to a large apartment fire that affected several families.

Steve, who was the recipient of the Volunteer of the Month award for September 2007, approaches each disaster with an attitude of caring and team work according to Gonzalo Hernandez, Red Cross Disaster Manager.

“All we can do is help them look to the future,” says Weiss about the ways the Red Cross helps disaster victims rebuild their lives. “If you can volunteer you’ll never look back.”

9/05/2007
LOCAL AUTHOR GIVES BACK
(Baltimore, MD)-- For every copy of My Angel sold, author Denise Skeltton will donate 25% of the proceeds to The Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross. http://deniseskelton.com/

8/15/2007
LOCAL GOLFERS SCORE A HOLE IN ONE FOR DISASTER RELIEF
(Carroll County, MD)-- More than 100 golfers teed-off Monday at the 9th Annual Golf Classic held at the Piney Branch Golf Club in Hampstead, MD. The event raised $35,000 for American Red Cross disaster relief and preparedness in Carroll County.

"This was the most successful tournament in our history. It was due to the great work of our tournament chairman Joe Ensor and the entire golf committee. Everyone is committed to helping the Red Cross in its service and support of Carroll County," said Douglas Myers, Board Chair of the Carroll County District of the Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Participants in the golf classic, which was played as a Florida Scramble, included individual players as well as Carroll County businesses and corporations. The first place team was a foursome made up of employees from Merrill Lynch and led by Kevin Bell. A silent auction also allowed participants to make contributions in exchange for unique sports memorabilia.

Local sponsors of the event included:
• Presenting sponsor Northrop Grumman
• Lifesaver Sponsors Koons of Westminster and Westminster Union Bank.
• Hero Sponsors Asbury Communities, Carroll Hospital Center, Evapco, Ridge Engineering, Bank of Hanover, Woodhaven Building & Development, Omega Satter, Carroll County Anesthesia Association and Ellin & Tucker, Chartered, and Merrill Lynch.

All proceeds from the event benefit Carroll County disaster victims, like the families who were displaced last month by a fire that damaged homes on South Bishop Street in Westminster. Central Maryland Red Cross volunteers provide food, clothing and shelter after disasters like that each day.

The Red Cross has been providing relief to local victims of disasters such as fires, floods and storms for more than 100 years. Over 2,000 Carroll County residents are trained each year in lifesaving techniques such as CPR, First Aid and water safety.

All American Red Cross assistance is free, provided as a gift from the American people. You can make a contribution to the American Red Cross by visiting
www.redcross-cmd.org or by calling the Carroll County Red Cross at 866/358-9207.

7/25/2007
SWING WITH A PURPOSE
Annual Carroll County Golf Classic Looks to Raise Funds
To Benefit the Local District of the American Red Cross for its 9th Year
(Carroll County, MD)- Disaster relief and golf. No, it won’t revive your handicap, but on Monday August 13, the Carroll County District of the American Red Cross will take the course at Piney Branch Golf Club to raise money and awareness for emergency preparedness and response efforts.

The 9th Annual Golf Classic, being played as a Florida Scramble, starts with lunch for participants at 11:00 am and a shotgun start at 1:00 pm. Participation ranges from individual players to a Lifesaver sponsorship that includes promotional opportunities for businesses and corporations. A silent auction during dinner allows participants to make contributions in exchange for valuable sports memorabilia as well.

The Red Cross has been providing relief to local victims of disasters such as fires, floods and power outages for more than 100 years. Over 2,000 Carroll County residents are trained each year by Red Cross volunteers in lifesaving techniques such as CPR, First Aid and water safety. Through donations and sponsorships at events such as the golf tournament, the Red Cross can continue to increase these efforts.

Hit a hole in one by participating in a fun filled day of golf that also benefits your local community. All proceeds benefit the Carroll County District of the American Red Cross. Call 1-866-358-9207 or email carrollcounty@arc-cmc.org for more information.

7/20/2007
HAVE KINDNESS WILL TRAVEL
Red Cross volunteer rides the range to bring help and compassion to those in need.
(Baltimore, MD)-- Some say there are no cowboys in these parts. But nearly once a week Melvin ‘Wally’ Waldrop rides into town armed with a gentle smile, wearing dusty cowboy boots as he helps Maryland’s disaster victims on the trail to recovery. Waldrop is a Central Maryland Red Cross Disaster Action Team member.

Two years ago Waldrop, an El Paso native who now who calls Edgewater his homestead, answered the call to go to Louisiana when Hurricane Katrina tried to lay down the law. He could have ridden off into the sunset after that but like most heroes, Waldrop knew there was more work to do. He has been a Red Cross volunteer ever since.

Waldrop is part of an elite posse of brave men and women who provide food, clothing and temporary shelter to the victims affected by Central Maryland’s average of three disasters a day. Disasters in Central Maryland are usually fires, floods or other severe weather.

Waldrop doesn’t do this work for the glory, although he was named the Central Maryland Red Cross volunteer of the month for June, 2007. Waldrop says in his straight-shooting manner, that he volunteers simply because “helping people feels good.”

When asked for advice on what it takes be a hero in his community, Waldrop says, “Be yourself. Be friendly. And get training. Get as much training as possible.”

To rustle up some training of your own, or to learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross call 410-624-2000 or visit www.redcross-cmd.org.

7/13/2007
NEED A SPEAKER? THE RED CROSS CAN HELP!
(Baltimore, MD)-- At the Red Cross, we love to talk about ourselves. We just need an invitation. The Red Cross Speakers Bureau has a cadre of trained and knowledgeable speakers ready to address a variety of subjects. All speakers are available, free of charge, to clubs, community groups, professional organizations, businesses and churches.

Presentation Topics Include:

Fabric of Our Lives: 100 Years of Red Cross Service in Our Community

Are You Ready For Disaster?

Fire Prevention and Safety

International Humanitarian Law

To learn more about the valuable services provided by the American Red Cross, invite a representative of the Red Cross Speakers Bureau to your next event. Contact Dorothy Herd at 410/624-2080 or
dherd@arc-cmc.org for availability and a complete list of topics.

7/9/2007
EN ESPAÑOL—RED CROSS OFFERS CPR TO SPANISH SPEAKERS
(Baltimore, MD)—When disaster strikes, it affects all communities. In emergencies it’s vital that all individuals are trained for safety. That’s why the Red Cross of Central Maryland is offering Child and Infant CPR for Spanish-speakers on Saturday July 21 from 9:00AM-2:00PM at Red Cross headquarters, 4800 Mount Hope Drive in Baltimore.

What: Child and Infant CPR (en Español)

When: 9:00AM – 2:00PM July 21, 2007

Where: Red Cross of Central Maryland
4800 Mount Hope Drive
Baltimore, MD

Contact: To register, or to learn more, call 410-624-2060.

Backed by 95 years of lifesaving experience, the American Red Cross offers you the most current, comprehensive and high quality safety training available that reflects the latest guidelines for first aid, CPR and emergency cardiovascular care. For a complete list of Red Cross Health and Safety classes visit www.redcross-cmd.org.

7/9/2007
MORE THAN AN APPLE FOR THE TEACHER
Harford County Resident Wins Red Cross Award
(Baltimore, MD)— Emily Whaley is just like someone you know. She’s married and has a baby on the way. She lives in Harford County and works at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. But unlike most of us Emily Whaley has saved lives.

Ms. Whaley teaches health and safety courses for the Central Maryland Red Cross. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like her, thousands of Marylanders are ready for life’s emergencies.

“Knowing how to respond is crucial,” says Whaley. “It can mean the difference between resuscitating your drowning child and reviving a neighbor who has had a heart attack.”

Red Cross volunteers are known for their compassion; Whaley, who was recently named the Volunteer of the Month, embodies that kindness.

“I had a student struggling with an exam. He was reading too fast for comprehension, but when I read him the exam he was able to understand the material,” says Whaley. “He was very appreciative of my patience with him, and I was equally grateful that he was comfortable enough with me to admit he needed some extra help.”

Volunteers are the backbone of the Red Cross. They comprise 90 percent of the work done by the organization. In Central Maryland, the Red Cross has more than 2,000 volunteers who perform crucial services that include teaching life saving skills, offering relief to disaster victims, organizing blood drives and providing emergency communications to those serving in the armed forces.

To volunteer with the Red Cross or enroll in a Red Cross health and safety course call 410/624-2000 or visit www.redcross-cmd.org.

6/22/2007
FOR FUTURE MEDICAL LEADERS--SAFETY RULES
People to People Youth Ambassadors Learn How to Save Lives
(Baltimore, MD)-- The American Red Cross of Central Maryland will teach CPR lifesaving techniques to a group of 181 domestic and international students participating in the Future Leaders in Medicine Summit on June 29 at Johns Hopkins University. “All the students have an interest in medicine as a career; this is a stepping stone to achieving that career,” said Art Cox, program coordinator of the People to People Ambassadors Program. “The American Red Cross is such a vital part of the health care industry,” he added.

This is the fourth year the Central Maryland Red Cross has trained young people in the People to People Ambassadors Program. Next Friday morning’s training will bring the total number of youth certified in CPR this summer to 361.

“We look forward to meeting and training these young people every year,” said Andrea Stoner, Red Cross manger of sales and marketing development. “More than 1,000 students from all over the United States and the world have taken this life-saving training back to their communities—that’s a huge reach.”

The People to People Student Ambassador Program was created by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to promote cultural understanding and peace. “Student Ambassadors return home with a greater sense of what it means to be a good neighbor and a global citizen.”

Learn more about the People to People Student Ambassadors program at www.studentambassadors.org. Contact the Red Cross to schedule a group CPR class for your organization by calling 410/624-2060 or by visiting www.redcross-cmd.org.

6/12/2007
RED CROSS TO HONOR INSPIRATIONAL HOWARD COUNTY COUPLE
(Baltimore, MD)— Donna and Neil Dorsey have inspired a legacy for others to follow. This dynamic duo from Howard County has contributed nearly 50 years of combined service to the American Red Cross and to their Central Maryland community.

The Dorseys, who live in Columbia, Maryland, have served the organization in a variety of capacities including disaster relief, class room instruction and as Red Cross board members. They will be honored by the American Red Cross at reception on June 14 at the Owen Brown Community Association in Columbia, Maryland from 4:00- 6:00PM.

In May, the Red Cross unveiled the Dorsey Family Service Award as a tribute to this husband and wife team. The award will honor two or more Red Cross volunteers from the same family who volunteer with the chapter for five years or more. The Dorseys were named as the first award recipients.

“This amazing couple has devoted a major part of their lives in service to the American Red Cross,” said Fred Rigger board chair of the Central Maryland Chapter. “In future years, family members who receive the Dorsey Family Service Award will be beneficiaries of their examples of dedication and unselfish service.”

Donna Dorsey has volunteered with the Red Cross since 1976. She has taught more than 100 disaster health courses and trained more than 500 nurses to become Red Cross disaster volunteers. She served as the chair of the board of the Central Maryland Chapter from 2004 to 2006. On a national level, she has flown to the scenes of numerous disasters to help the Red Cross provide food, clothing, shelter and medical care to victims. Donna is the winner of the Casey and Menzies Awards – among the Central Maryland Red Cross chapter’s top honors. She is also the recipient of the Ann Magnussen Award honoring a volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution to Red Cross nursing programs. In

2003, she received the Florence Nightingale Award, the highest international honor offered by the Red Cross.

Neil Dorsey has been an active Red Cross volunteer since 1980. He is currently an instructor in both Emergency Services and Health Services and has taught businesses how to be safe from crime. Neil is an active member of the Disaster Action Team in Howard County and an administrative volunteer. He also finds time to serve as a member of the Howard County Red Cross Board.

5/25/2007
RED CROSS LAUDS HARFORD LEADERS
(Baltimore, MD)-- The Harford County District of the American Red Cross held its 17th Annual Leadership Breakfast on Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at Harford Community College’s Chesapeake Center. The breakfast honored Harford County residents and businesses for their support of the organization. Marlene Lieb, Board Chair of the Harford County district and Fred Rigger Board Chair of the Red Cross of Central Maryland co-presented at the ceremony.

The Philanthropist of the Year award went to the Cole Family Foundation for its generous support of the Red Cross in Harford County. The foundation has backed local relief efforts since 1999 and also supports Red Cross relief efforts nationally and around the globe.

Gemcraft Homes Group, Inc was named the Corporate Philanthropist of the Year. Gemcraft Homes supports the Red Cross through the Save the Day campaign, a program providing local businesses an opportunity to sponsor relief services for local disaster victims.

Four Community Partner Awards were presented to individuals and organizations that have shown a commitment to the mission of the Red Cross. The first Community Partner Award was for outstanding Youth Leader. Adam LaFleur joined other Red Cross volunteers who spent several days distributing comfort kits to the thousands of adults and children who poured into Baltimore Washington International/Thurgood Marshall airport during the repatriation of Americans fleeing war torn Lebanon last summer.

The Community Partner Award for Blood Services went to Theresa
Dreisen of North Harford Interfaith. Dreisen has recruited a regular group of donors who turn out for each of the four drives during year. These blood drives regularly produce an average of 50 units each. Last year 218 units were collected help over 650 area patients.

The Community Partner Award for Health and Safety went to Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Abingdon. Over the last two years, the Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church has hosted more than 25 CPR classes as well as several Babysitting and Pet First Aid classes. Over 225 Harford County citizens have benefited from the classes.
The final Community Partner Award was for Disaster Services Leaders or
Partners and was presented to four organizations that went above and beyond the call of duty and provided supports to the survivors of a January 2007 fire in Abingdon that killed a married couple and three of their grandchildren. Red Cross mental health team volunteers provided counseling and other resources to seven-year-old Iyanna and her mother Shaunette who survived the blaze.

Iyanna had a birthday just days later. The staff and faculty at William Paca Elementary School where she was a student were honored for organizing a party for the child.

McComas Funeral Home immediately provided space for the Red Cross
to set up a base of operations that allowed the family to receive information and grieve after the fire.

Mountain Christian Church in Joppa Maryland assisted the family members during this disaster by helping to make funeral arrangements and providing food and a space to gather following the funeral service.

The members of the Abingdon Fire Department displayed their commitment to this family long after the fire had been put out by organizing a fund raising dinner to help them on the road to recovery.

RED CROSS HONORS HOWARD CHURCH, RESIDENTS
FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE

The American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter recently honored a Howard County church and members of county’s Red Cross chapter for outstanding volunteer service.

The First Presbyterian Church, of Columbia, received a Good Neighbor Award during central Maryland Red Cross 2007 Volunteer Recognition Event on April 23 at the BWI Marriott. The church was recognized for its donation of space for first aid and CPR classes, which has enabled the Red Cross to provide lifesaving skills training to 500 people a year in Howard County.

Glenwood resident Ann Heavner, who chairs the Howard County Red Cross chapter board of directors, received an Outstanding Volunteer Award for leadership in financial development.

Howard County Red Cross board member Neil Dorsey, of Columbia, and his wife Donna received a special award for their decades-long service to the Red Cross in central Maryland. Neil, who is a Disaster Action Team member, has served on the Howard County Red Cross board for more than 25 years. Donna Dorsey’s service to Red Cross spans more than three decades, including more than 20 years on the entral Maryland Chapter board and two years as its chair.

Also, the Dorseys and Howard County Red Cross board member Michael Liebman, of Owings Mills, were honored for their participation in the Lebanon Repatriation effort of July 2006. Red Cross volunteers manned an emergency processing center at BWI Marshall Airport that delivered services to nearly 4,500 American men, women and children who were evacuated from the Lebanon war zone by the U.S. State Department.

A special citations for exceptional service was also awarded to Donna Dorsey for emergency services. The Red Cross Howard County chapter is comprised of more than 90 volunteers. The Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies; and deliver health and safety programs for all ages.

For more information, or to become a Red Cross volunteer, contact Lenore Koors at 410-624-2035.

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND MARKS THE OPENING OF MANY LOCAL POOLS

Baltimore, MD– Summer safety is more than remembering sun screen hen going outside. It’s about being informed and prepared when going in or near water, especially at your local pool, lake or beach. During the Memorial Day Weekend, many local outdoor pools will open for the summer. The following tips are important to note to reduce the chance of an unfortunate event:

· Learn to swim. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim--this includes adults and children. The American Red Cross has designed swimming courses swimming courses for people of any age and swimming ability. To enroll in a course to learn r improve your ability to swim, contact your local Red Cross chapter.

· Never leave a child unobserved around water. Your eyes must be on the child at all times. Adult supervision is recommended.

· Install a phone by the pool or keep a mobile phone nearby so that you can call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

· Learn CPR and insist that babysitters, grandparents, and others who care for your child know CPR.

· Post or ask your homeowners association or apartment complex to post CPR instructions and 9-1-1 or your local emergency number in the pool area.

· Keep toys away from the pool when it is not in use. Toys can attract young children into the pool.

· For homeowner’s with pools: Enclose the pool completely with a self-locking, self-closing fence with vertical bars. Openings in the fence should be no more than four inches wide. The house should not be included as a part of the barrier.

· The gate should be constructed so that it is self-latching and self-closing.

· Never leave furniture near the fence that would enable a child to climb over the fence.

· Always keep basic lifesaving equipment by the pool and know how to use it. Pole, rope, and personal flotation devices (PFD’s) are recommended.

· Pool covers should always be completely removed prior to pool use.

· If a child is missing, check the pool first. Go to the edge of the pool and scan the entire pool, bottom, and surface, as well as the surrounding pool area.

For more information, please visit www.redcross.org to download a schedule of classes near you or call 410/624-2060 to learn more.

5/3/2007
CELEBRATE MOTHERS WHILE HELPING OTHERS
Baltimore, MD-- Mothers have always taught their children how to prepare for life’s disasters. This Mothers Day you can return the favor by making a contribution to the Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter in honor of the special woman in your life. Your contribution will help others in the community prepare for the fires, severe weather and other disasters that affect families throughout the region every day. In return, the Red Cross will send your mother a lovely card with your personal message and their thanks for what you've done.

To send your mother a special greeting visit www.redcross-cmc.org or call Terry Thomas at (410) 624-2031.

4/28/2007
IF DISASTER STRIKES BALTIMORE, NEW TRAINING PROGRAM MEANS LOCAL VOLUNTEERS WILL BE READY WHEN THE TIME COMES
Baltimore, MD– When disaster strikes, every second counts. While many people want to help during relief efforts, having the right training is essential to an effective response. Ready When the Time Comes (RWTC), a new program from the American Red Cross and national founding sponsor, Grainger, will ensure immediate “People Power” is in place should disasters strike the Baltimore area. This People Power comes in the form of an effective network of trained volunteers well-equipped to provide food and shelter.

“The business community has a unique resource in its people and during times of disaster this is one of the greatest contributions we can make to the local community,” said Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President, Customer Service, Grainger. “For more than 63 years, Grainger has been committed to helping businesses in the Baltimore area get the supplies they need to respond, recover and rebuild when disasters strike. Our sponsorship of Ready When the Time Comes adds the commitment of Grainger employees to that effort.”

RWTC recruits volunteer teams from local corporations and trains them in emergency response before disaster strikes. Program volunteers receive free, specialized training in critical disaster response activities such as shelter operations, mass care, community response center operations and damage assessment. RWTC enables the American Red Cross to recruit and train volunteers from local companies and organizations so they can be mobilized quickly. In the event of a local, large-scale disaster, the Red Cross can count on RWTC corporate partners to support their local efforts. RWTC is a clear example of how businesses and workplaces across the area are getting involved to ensure their communities are prepared to respond, at a moment’s notice, when disaster strikes.

On Saturday, April 28, RWTC will officially launch in Baltimore. The event will kick-off at 10:30 a.m., at Gwynn Oak Methodist Church, 5020 Gwynn Oak Avenue, Woodlawn, Md., a longstanding Red Cross shelter location. As part of the launch, between 30-50 employee volunteers from Grainger, Black & Decker and several other local organizations will participate in a simulated shelter preparedness drill. The drill will be executed by the American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter as a training exercise. The one-hour simulation will include training the volunteers on how to set up and staff a shelter for displaced victims during a disaster. Volunteers will practice mock registration procedures, the set up of cots and distribution of bedding, as well as food preparation and distribution. Following the simulation, executives from the American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter, Grainger, and Black & Decker will participate in a roundtable discussion focusing on corporate America’s responsibility in times of disaster and the importance of providing employees with opportunities to volunteer in their community.

“We are very pleased to launch Ready When the Time Comes in the Baltimore area,” said Fred Rigger, Chairman of the Board, American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter. "The employees here today from Grainger, Black & Decker, and the other participating organizations represent the best in corporate America. They will help strengthen our Chapter’s ability to respond to disasters and assist victims, which will greatly impact the service we provide to the Baltimore community when disasters strike.”

“Giving back to the community is a core value at Black & Decker, and at no time is this more evident than during a disaster,” said Bud Schreiber, Vice President Sales & Service at Black & Decker. “Our employees know this and were only too eager to assist with this important project. By preparing for such emergencies in advance, our employees know they will be prepared to offer crucial support when Baltimore needs it most.”

As national founding sponsor, Grainger presented the American Red Cross with a $1 million donation. This funding enables the Red Cross to facilitate the recruitment and training of corporate employees in 16 U.S. cities, including Baltimore, to become Red Cross volunteers, supporting the strategic goal of increasing volunteer capacity.

4/20/2007
FOR THIS VOLUNTEER THE FIGHT ISN’T OVER
Baltimore, MD-- Gene Gogel’s Red Cross involvement has come full circle. During World War II, Gogel did his part for the war effort by helping the Red Cross to mail ration certificates to local citizens. Now more than sixty years later, he volunteers with the Holocaust and War Victims Tracing Center to help locate those who went missing during the conflict in Europe.

The Tracing Center, housed at the Central Maryland Red Cross headquarters, is part of a national program for persons seeking the fates of loved ones missing since the Holocaust and its aftermath. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like Gogel, the Center has reunited more than 1,200 persons with family members.

“You get more out of it that you can possibly put into it,” Gogel says about his volunteer experiences in the tracing effort which also provides survivors with documentation of wartime experiences in order to obtain reparations.

Gogel was named the March 2007 Volunteer of the Month for his dedication to the organization. He also serves as a front desk receptionist for the Red Cross. His friendly and jovial manner are a welcome greeting to the dozens of students who take Red Cross health and safety courses at the Chapter each day.

“Gene is highly dedicated to the Red Cross,” says Carolyn Thompson, Volunteer Specialist with the organization. “No matter what time of day, if the Red Cross needs assistance, even at the last minute, he makes it a point to be there and help.”

The Holocaust and War Victims Tracing Center has embarked on a new fundraising campaign called Family of Truth. To learn how you can support this important work visit www.familyoftruth.com call (410) 624-2090.

4/11/2007
ARE YOU AWARE OF HOW TO GIVE YOUR PETS THE BEST CARE?
Baltimore, MD – April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month and the Red Cross of Central Maryland wants to make sure pet owners know the necessary steps to keep their furry friends safe.

With the vulnerability of the family pet in the national spotlight, pet owners are reminded that it is important to know what to do if your pet is recently injured or has a medical emergency. The Red Cross "Pet First Aid" guide provides information to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies to care for dogs and cats in an emergency.

"Pet First Aid" offers help to animal lovers with everything from giving medication to step-by-step directions on how to perform CPR. To make learning to care for your pet easier, "Pet First Aid" features detailed instructions on how to administer care for 50 injuries and illnesses and includes over 130 easy to follow illustrations.

The Red Cross assembled a skilled team of animal, emergency and safety professionals to develop a guide which covers many aspects of pets' physical and mental well-being.

Pet owners will learn other tips, such as:

*Paying attention to what is normal for your pet so you can detect signals when something is wrong
*Learning how to build a pet first aid kit
*Labor and delivery -- and what to do if there is a problem
*Making your pet part of a Family Disaster Plan, including identifying hotels and shelters that accept pets before a disaster situation
*How to spot signs of depression in pets.

"Our pets are depending on us to keep them well and to come to their aid during an emergency," said Bob Hoguet, Red Cross of Central Maryland health and safety expert. "National Pet First Aid Awareness Month is a great way to demonstrate that good family health should also include our pets."

The Central Maryland Chapter will be holding its next Pet First Aid class on Saturday May 12. Students will get hands-on experience and learn how to respond to life-threatening emergencies such as choking, poisoning and exposure to extreme weather conditions; perform CPR and First Aid; and to recognize symptoms and provide care for common pet emergencies such as allergic reactions and car accidents.

To purchase the "Pet First Aid" guide or to learn more about upcoming pet first aid classes, visit www.redcross-cmd.org or call 410/624-2060.

4/10/2007
RED CROSS ANNOUNCES NEW MANAGER FOR
FOUR COUNTIES
Baltimore, MD— The Red Cross of Central Maryland has appointed a district manger for Harford, Howard, Carroll and Anne Arundel Counties. Lenore Koors, who was named to the position earlier this year, is working with local municipalities and members of the community to increase public awareness about the organization and assist in improving communication between the Red Cross, its volunteers, and emergency responders. She is also responsible for financial development in all four counties.

“The community has always been there when the Red Cross has called for blood donations and disaster relief,” says Ms. Koors. “I look forward to letting the public know about the many other services we provide such as assisting our troops and teaching lifesaving skills.”

Throughout the region, the chapter responds to an average of three disasters per day. Last year the Red Cross of Central Maryland facilitated more than 3,000 emergency messages for military members and their families. During 2006, the Red Cross trained more than 850 Harford County residents in CPR and First Aid and over 2,100 in lifeguard and water safety training.

Prior to accepting the District Manager position, Ms. Koors worked for the Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter as Development Officer and a Volunteer Coordinator.

April is National Volunteer Month and the Central Maryland Red Cross hopes to recruit a record number of new volunteers during this time to help meet their growing needs. To volunteer your time or to contribute financially to the Red Cross in your community visit www.redcross-cmd.org or call 410/624-2030.

3/14/2007
CENTRAL MARYLAND RED CROSS TO HOST 12TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC
Baltimore, MD-- The Central Maryland Red Cross will host its 12th Annual Golf Classic on May 7 at Chestnut Ridge Country Club in Lutherville, MD. This yearly event provides important financial support that makes Red Cross relief efforts possible. Red Cross volunteers respond to an average of three disasters each day in the Central Maryland region, including fires and floods.

The day’s festivities will include a live auction, raffle and door prizes. Major sponsors of the event include Adminstaff, SC&H Financial and Constellation Energy. To register as an individual or foursome for the event, visit www.redcross-cmd.org. All proceeds from this event will benefit disaster relief in the Central Maryland.

3/12/2007
HARFORD COUNTY COUNCIL PROCLAIMS MARCH AS RED CROSS MONTH
Baltimore, MD-- The Harford County Council will present the American Red Cross of Central Maryland with a proclamation, honoring March as Red Cross Month in Harford County. The month is a national celebration of the unique and vital role the Red Cross plays in local communities across the country.

Red Cross board members will be present at the Tuesday March 13th council meeting to represent the organization. The council meeting starts at 8:00 PM in the County Council Chambers at 212 South Bond Street, Bel Air, MD.

Activities at the state level will culminate with a blood drive and other events on March 23 at the State House. The Lt. Governor and representatives from the Red Cross will be on hand for the event. To learn more or to attend call 410/624-2082.

3/23/2007
STATE/RED CROSS TO SIGN DISASTER RESPONSE ACCORD
Baltimore, MD-- The American Red Cross and the State of Maryland will formalize a framework for cooperation in rendering assistance and service to victims of disaster at a news conference tomorrow, March 23 at 11 a.m. at Lawyers Mall and College Avenue. Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown will join Red Cross volunteers to present the memorandum of understanding, as well as a gubernatorial proclamation recognizing March 23 as Red Cross Day in Annapolis.

Dozens of Red Cross volunteers from throughout the state will be at the State House Friday, March 23 to let their legislators know about the organization’s work helping disaster victims, teaching health and safety courses and recruiting blood donors.

3/9/2007
CENTRAL MARYLAND RED CROSS WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBER
Baltimore, MD-- The American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter welcomes Margaret Sparr to its board of directors. Sparr is the Deputy Director of the Louisiana Healthcare Rebuilding Staff, Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

“I have always had a deep respect for the Red Cross. By teaching lifesaving skills, providing emergency assistance and supplying safe blood to those in need, they have always been there for the community,” Says Sparr. “It’s an honor to be a part of an organization that has such a deep commitment to Central Maryland and beyond.”

Previously, Sparr served as the Executive Coordinator on the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Regulatory Reform at DHHS. Sparr received a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California and a Master of Science in Education from SUNY Buffalo. She has lived in Baltimore since 1986.

“We are grateful for committed individuals like Ms. Sparr who work so hard to make sure the Red Cross is there when disaster strikes,” says Lenore Koors, District Manager for the Central Maryland Chapter. “It is the volunteers—whether they serve on the board of directors, teach a class or work in the middle of the night to assist the victims of a house fire—that are truly our heroes.”

The Red Cross is currently seeking to honor other local heroes at the 9th Annual Red Cross Hometown Heroes Breakfast to be held on June 25, 2007. This event celebrates individuals who have displayed extraordinary acts of bravery, courage, kindness and community service and who embody the spirit of humanitarianism. Nominees do not need to be Red Cross volunteers but must live or work in Central Maryland. Call 410-624-2037 or visit the Red Cross online at www.redcross-cmd.org before March 16 to nominate your hero.

3/2/2007
RED CROSS VOLUNTEER HAS MADE A LIFETIME OF SERVICE
Baltimore, MD-- Jim Elliott has been named the American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter Volunteer of the Month for February 2007.

Elliott has taught over 50 classes for the Red Cross in the past year. He’s a certified instructor in several classes including Wilderness First Aid, Emergency Response Training, Child Care/Babysitter Training and CPR for the Professional Rescuer.

"I enjoy teaching. I always hope that those in the class learn something they will remember and be able to use if the need ever arises,” says Elliott modestly. “If there is only one individual who ever has that benefit I will feel that my time has been well spent and I will be grateful for the opportunity to have taught.”

Elliott began his association with the Red Cross in 1950 as a Cub Scout collecting signatures for a blood drive. “It had snowed and I had to beg my mother to let me go out and try to sign people up,” Elliott remembers. “I was actually the only kid who managed to secure any signatures, and the most for the area.”

In addition to being a classroom instructor, Elliott currently volunteers with the Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT). The DAT team is a well trained unit that responds to disasters such as fires and weather emergencies locally and across the country.

The students and the community aren’t the only ones who benefit from Elliott’s vast experience. He is well known as someone who is quick to mentor a new volunteer. This is a skill he likely picked up during his tenure as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps. He earned a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star and the USMC Bravery Medal, given for saving someone’s life outside of a combat zone.

Elliott has also received recognition for his volunteer work with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

“This is not why I am there and it is not what I am about,” says Elliott about the recognition he’s received during his life. “The opportunity to pass along what knowledge I have is my reason for volunteering.”

2/15/2007
RED CROSS TO HONOR MARYLAND'S HOMETOWN HEROES
Baltimore, MD— The American Red Cross of Central Maryland is seeking nominees to be honored at the 9th Annual Red Cross Hometown Heroes Breakfast to be held on June 25, 2007. This event celebrates individuals who have displayed extraordinary acts of bravery, courage, kindness and community service and who embody the spirit of humanitarianism. Nominees do not need to be Red Cross volunteers but must live or work in Central Maryland.

Day in and day out ordinary people perform countless acts of heroism, often without giving their extraordinary deeds a second thought. The Red Cross is proud to recognize this spirit of humanitarianism every year by honoring these individuals who make our communities better places to live and work.

Call 410-624-2037 or visit the Red Cross online at www.redcross-cmd.org before March 16 to nominate your hero.

2/9/2007
CENTRAL MARYLAND CHAPTER WELCOMES NEW CARROLL COUNTY DISTRICT CHAIR
Baltimore, MD-- The board of directors of the American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter has elected Doug Myers, President and CEO of Asbury Foundation, Inc., as the Chairman of the Board in Carroll County for 2007-08.

Myers, who began his association with the Red Cross in high school as a blood donor, says he believes in the mission of service to neighbors in need. “Carroll County residents have a great tradition of service to their community," says Myers. "My goal is to extend the reach of the Red Cross in the county and to strengthen the board."

Myers is a three year veteran of the Central Maryland Chapter board of directors. He lives in Mt. Airy with his wife Ellen and their four children.

The Red Cross is recruiting Disaster Action Team (DAT) members in Carroll County. DAT members respond to disasters such as fires and storms by providing emergency assistance and comfort to disaster victims. To volunteer as a DAT member, contact the Central Maryland Red Cross at 410/624-2023 or visit them online at www.redcross-cmd.org.

OWINGS MILLS RESIDENT NAMED AMERICAN RED CROSS VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Baltimore, MD-- Amy Markowitz has been named American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter Volunteer of the Month for January 2007. The Owings Mills resident has been a dedicated Red Cross volunteer since August 2005.

Markowitz first volunteered with the Central Maryland Chapter to answer phone calls and provide referral services for those affected by Hurricane Katrina. As the severity of the disaster grew, so did her responsibilities. She assisted with the coordination of the massive mobilization effort to dispatch volunteers to the Gulf Coast during the disaster. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like Markowitz, Maryland contributed more volunteers to the Red Cross hurricane relief effort than any other state.

Ms. Markowitz’s passion for the Red Cross hasn’t waned since Katrina. Now retired from owning her own catering business, she continues to go above and beyond the call of duty and put in long hours to make sure the job gets done. She volunteers in several Red Cross departments, including Human Resources and Financial Development.

“I really appreciate Amy’s efforts, her willingness and being conscientious to finish the job correctly and in a timely manner,” says Donna Bauer, Human Resources Generalist at the Central Maryland Chapter.

Markowitz says, her work is not a chore. “It’s very rewarding,” she says. “It’s just the right thing to do.”

Volunteers constitute 96 percent of the total work force of the American Red Cross. In Central Maryland, more than 2,000 volunteers provide services such as helping disaster victims, assisting with blood drives, teaching CPR/health and safety courses, and providing services that make a significant difference in our community. Contact the American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter at 410/624-2023 to volunteer today.

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS SEEKS DISASTER ACTION TEAM VOLUNTEERS
Baltimore, MD-- The American Red Cross Central Maryland Chapter is seeking dedicated individuals who want to volunteer their skills as Red Cross Disaster Action Team members. Thanks to these volunteers, the Red Cross is able to bring disaster relief to at least three disasters each day in our community. Disaster Action Team members respond to disasters such as fires, hurricanes and floods by:

• Surveying homes for damage and losses
• Authorizing temporary shelter and purchases of food, clothing and other immediate emergency assistance
• Assisting with feeding and sheltering of disaster victims
• Assisting with the physical and mental health needs of disaster victims
• Teaching disaster preparedness skills
• Participating in local drills

The Red Cross will hold orientation for new volunteers on March 12, 2007 from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. at the American Red Cross—Central Maryland Chapter headquarters in Baltimore. Anyone interested in joining the Disaster Action Team can register by calling 410-624-2024 or by emailing volunteers@arc-cmc.org. Contact the Red Cross today for more information and to find out how good it feels to wear the Red Cross emblem.

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS TO ADDRESS NEEDS ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES
Baltimore, MD-- The American Red Cross Speakers Bureau has trained two teams of volunteer speakers to address topics relevant to college and university students. The speakers have undergone training by experts on the staff of the American Red Cross--Central Maryland Chapter and are available, free of charge, to make presentations to campus clubs and organizations, classrooms, or special events.

Specific topics include:

International Humanitarian Law In a world where warfare and civil strife are a daily reality for millions, International Humanitarian Law (IHL) provides a framework for the protection of civilians and combatants alike. The American Red Cross has a unique mandate to educate the American public about the guiding principles and IHL framework as it applies to the Geneva Conventions and the protection of members of the armed forces, prisoners of war and civilians.

Disaster Preparedness—Are You Ready? Every eight minutes the American Red Cross responds to a disaster. Students and faculty will learn how be prepared for a disaster before it strikes by taking 3 simple actions: Get a Kit, Make a Plan, and Be Informed.

To learn more about the valuable services provided by the American Red Cross—Central Maryland Chapter, invite a representative of the American Red Cross Speakers Bureau to your next event. Contact Dorothy Herd for availability.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY...AIDS

Baltimore, MD-- Baltimore City high school students are learning how to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, and the reason is the message is coming from those they respect most—their peers. The Red Cross Players are a troupe of high school students from the Baltimore School for the Arts who, through a partnership with the Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross, bring life saving messages to their audience via edgy and interactive stage performances. The troupe is currently performing Happy Birthday AIDS, which challenges and educates the audience about the risks of HIV/AIDS through a combination of dark comedy, interactive television game show parodies, and drama.

“This is not your typical high school production. Their message will stay with you for a long time.” says Frank Miller, CEO of the Central Maryland Chapter of the American Red Cross. “Maryland is among the top sixteen states in the U.S. for new infections, and the numbers are on the rise—particularly among minority youth.”

The Red Cross Players have presented shows about fire safety and disaster preparedness each year since their inception in 2000. Happy Birthday AIDS will be performed January 12th at Heritage High School (1:30), and the16th at the Maritime Academy. Contact the Red Cross to find out how you can attend a performance.

100.7 The Bay Presents the Classic Rock Art Show and Sale in Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland - 100.7 The Bay, Baltimore’s Classic Rock Station will showcase the Classic Rock Art Show And Sale in the Shops at Kenilworth on November 3, 4 and 5. This never-before seen exhibit comes to Baltimore for the first time and showcases works of art created by classic rock musicians as well as famous rock photographs and handwritten lyrics. The event is free and open to the public during mall hours, with every piece of art on display and available for purchase. A portion of all the proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross.

Artists include John Lennon, Paul McCartney, John Entwistle (The Who), Jimi Hendrix, Ron Wood (Rolling Stones), Santana, Bob Dylan and dozens more. Works from photography sessions including Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones and The Doors will be featured, as well as handwritten lyrics, album cover artwork, concert tour posters and animation cells.

The Shops At Kenilworth are located at 800 Kenilworth Drive,
Baltimore, MD 21204-2201, 410-321-1909.

RED CROSS BENEFITS FROM LOCAL PERFORMANCES AND CONCERTS

Jo Dee Messina
w/ Shauna Bolton

Part of country music's late-'90s crop of female crossover stars, Jo Dee Messina's appeal nonetheless remained more with country fans than pop audiences.

Delbert McClinton
The venerable Delbert McClinton is a legend among Texas roots music aficionados, not only for his amazing longevity, but for his ability to combine country, blues, soul, and rock & roll as if there were no distinctions between any of them in the best time-honored Texas tradition. A formidable harmonica player long before he recorded as a singer, McClinton's career began in the late '50s. His biggest break came when he was tapped for a duet with Bonnie Raitt on 1991's Luck of the Draw, the follow-up to her much-lauded comeback Nick of Time. The result, "Good Man, Good Woman," brought McClinton his first Grammy for Best Rock Vocal, Duo or Group. (All Music Guide)

Alexa Ray Joel (Rock / Pop / Soul)
at Hard Rock Cafe,

Tickets for ages 18-20: $10. Ages 21+: $7. Ages 18+ only. Portion of all proceeds will go to Red Cross.

Alexa Ray Joel grew up in a musical household and her gift for singing and songwriting was always encouraged by her parents. Like her father, she pursued classical piano training for many years before developing a talent for songwriting. She would soon find that her skills in classical piano provided a solid foundation for her songwriting.

Alexa started out performing her first show at the famous Maxwell's in NJ, followed by other gigs in New York, including. The Cutting Room and Galapagos and is set for a Hard Rock Cafe Tour throughout America in May.

James Brown w/ All Good Funk Alliance
Fordham Brewing Company Presents...

Universally known as “The Godfather Of Soul,” James Brown is also the undisputed “King Of Funk,” an American original whose pioneering work has literally helped shape the course of contemporary music. He's the most sampled recording artist in history and, is most likely the genesis of the rap and hip-hop movements. James Brown--an American treasure!