07 Feb 2011

Governor Quinn Salutes Illinois' Public Safety Workers and National Guard Members

By Rick Martin

Efforts Aided More Than 4,000 Illinois Motorists Affected by Major Winter Storm, Maintained Critical State Services

SPRINGFIELD - February 4, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today thanked the first responders and Illinois National Guard members who assisted more than 4,000 motorists during this week's major snowstorm. The state's response effort was coordinated by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) from the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Springfield. Liaisons from the state's key agencies worked around the clock from Monday afternoon through Thursday afternoon on response efforts.

"I thank the public servants and servicemembers who worked together to ensure public safety and preserve critical state services during this dangerous storm," said Governor Quinn. "Nearly the entire state was affected by this major winter storm, but by working together we were able to help more than 4,000 people in distress and ensure that essential state services were continued without interruption."

The state's combined efforts cleared 16,500 miles of highway and assisted more than 4,000 stranded motorists. The coordinated effort was led by the Illinois State Police (ISP), Illinois National Guard (ING), Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

From noon Tuesday through Wednesday afternoon, ISP assisted 3,400 stranded motorists throughout Illinois and handled 270 traffic accidents.

More than 500 Illinois National Guard soldiers and airmen were mobilized Tuesday to assist ISP with response to stranded motorists. Using more than 140 military vehicles, including 114 Humvees, the Illinois Guard assisted more than 200 snowed-in vehicles and assisted ISP with 16 vehicles, six accidents and one ambulance.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police (CPOs) also were activated for storm response duties on Tuesday to provide welfare checks and assist stranded motorists on Illinois roadways.  Nearly 50 CPOs used all-weather vehicles, including more than 50 snowmobiles and ATVs, to rescue or provide assistance to more than 550 stranded motorists during the height of the storm. Conservation police rescued several dozen people including a stroke victim and brought others to warming centers open throughout the state.

Since the storm began, 2,800 IDOT drivers have cleared 16,500 miles of highway throughout the state, utilizing 1,629 trucks. As a result of IDOT's around-the-clock snowplowing effort over the past several days, roads that were virtually impassable during the height of the storm have improved significantly and continue to improve each hour.

Facility management personnel from CMS ensured that necessary facilities were open, including several 24-hour facilities that offer service to the public, ISP and IDOT locations and headquarters that were critical to the response efforts, and garages to support public agency fleets. The agency's division of vehicles played an important role in the state's response by delivering fuel to keep plows running and making repairs. Some mechanics stayed overnight in the fleet garages to ensure they could get on the road again to continue assisting first response agencies.

The Illinois Tollway mobilized its full fleet of 183 snow plows to quickly clear the roads and kept its snow operations center open throughout the duration of the storm. The Tollway's dispatch center handled 1,549 incident calls during the storm and the agency worked with state police to respond to 77 traffic crashes, assist 512 motorists, fulfill 33 requests for service (fuel, tire change, etc.) and tow 133 vehicles.

Other storm-related state efforts included providing updated information about shelters and warming centers, road conditions, interstate access restrictions, and winter safety tips; coordinating with critical facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes, to ensure they had power, water, medical supplies and staffing to remain operational; and tracking power outages throughout the state.

Throughout the winter storm, IEMA continually updated information on www.Ready.Illinois.gov to ensure citizens had access to vital storm-related information. Between Tuesday and Thursday there were more than 2.2 million hits to the state's preparedness site, more than four times the total number of hits during the month of January.

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07 Feb 2011

Grassley Works to Clear Rape Kit Backlog

By Sen Chuck Grassley

Friday, February 4, 2011

WASHINGTON ? Senator Chuck Grassley this week introduced the Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2011, along with Senator Al Franken of Minn., to help clear the backlog of untested rape kits around the country.  Senators Dianne Feinstein of Calif., Michael Bennet of Colo., Richard Burr of N.C., Bernie Sanders of Vt., and Bob Casey of Pa, also cosponsored the bill.

"There's a problem when rape kits sit on shelves for years at a time, while perpetrators roam the streets potentially harming others," Grassley said.  "The delays we're seeing are unacceptable, so we're working to end the backlog and help victims of sexual assault find justice in a timely manner."

Grassley said that it takes approximately one week to process a DNA evidence sample, so there is no reason every rape kit shouldn't be tested in a timely manner.

The Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2011 would also prohibit the current practice?permitted by federal law?that allows jurisdictions to bill rape victims and then force victims to seek reimbursement from state crime victims' funds.  It would also require jurisdictions receiving Debbie Smith funds to report backlog levels to the Department of Justice and specify how much of their Debbie Smith grant funds have been used to analyze DNA from sexual assault cases.

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07 Feb 2011

Mitsubishi, state of Illinois reach agreements

By Kara Beach

Governor Quinn, Mitsubishi Motors Announce Innovative Partnership to Promote Sustainability,  State to Test Mitsubishi "i" Electric Vehicles in Its State Fleet

 NORMAL, IL - February 4, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn and Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support the advancement of electric vehicle and renewable energy technologies in Illinois. As part of the agreement, Illinois will receive a limited number of Mitsubishi Motors "i" battery electric vehicles (i MiEV) on a temporary basis to evaluate the new electric vehicle (EV) technology on the state's fleet.

"We are continuing to make strong investments in our green economy, which are putting people to work across Illinois. This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to the EV industry here in Illinois, and our common interest in bringing the jobs and environmental benefits these innovative technologies will deliver to our state. In Illinois, we are doing everything necessary to stabilize our economy, and this partnership is an important step toward securing our long-term economic growth." Governor Pat Quinn said.

Under the agreement, the state will explore opportunities for joint research and industrial development among the parties and other Illinois-based research institutions to assist in the development, adoption and promotion of EVs and green technologies. The state will also work with Illinois community colleges and technical schools to develop curriculum and training programs to meet the demands of this growing sector.

"Mitsubishi Motors has a partnership of more than 25 years with the State of Illinois, and we are pleased that this partnership will now extend into Electrical Vehicles for the future," said MMNA President & CEO Shin Kurihara.  "We are impressed with the state's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, and we look forward to the initiatives outlined in this agreement.

In addition to providing an inventory of test vehicles for the state's fleet, Mitsubishi will provide information and recommendations on strategies to support EV adoption in Illinois. Mitsubishi will work with the state to share information on smart grid enabling strategies, and will also help EV adoption as well as charging infrastructure strategy by making the EV available to Illinois Mitsubishi dealers helping advance the EV cause.

"As we look to further enhance our competitiveness in the global economy, we know that our investments in the green industry will play a critical role in creating jobs and building a more sustainable economic future in Illinois," said Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Warren Ribley. "This partnership with Mitsubishi will not only help make Illinois a leader in electric vehicle infrastructure deployment, but will also advance our efforts in smart grid technologies and other high-growth sectors that will help attract investment and create even more jobs."

Today, Mitsubishi also announced a partnership with the Bloomington-Normal EV Task Force to supply 1,000 of its new, fully electric Mitsubishi "i"s to the Bloomington-Normal community by 2014. This agreement further supports the task force's EV Town initiative, an effort by the communities to further the local EV market. As part of the initiative, the town of Normal plans to lease two European market versions of the Mitsubishi "i," due to arrive in March of 2011.  The town is also working to implement charging infrastructure to support the increase in EVs throughout Normal in 2011.

Earlier today, Governor Quinn announced a business investment package for Mitsubishi that will save at least 1,200 jobs at the company's Normal facility and bring production of the new Outlander Sport, which is currently produced in Japan, to Illinois. The Japanese Automaker began manufacturing vehicles in Normal, Illinois in 1988.

Illinois continues to see strong signs of economic growth and recovery. Illinois led the Midwest and ranked fourth in the nation for job growth in 2010, and December marked the ninth straight month of declining unemployment.


Governor Quinn Announces Mitsubishi to Produce New Vehicle in Illinois,  State Action Helps Save 1,200 Jobs; Leverages $45 Million Private Investment

 NORMAL, IL - February 4, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today announced a business investment package that is helping save at least 1,200 jobs at Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's (MMC) only North American plant in Normal.  Governor Quinn proposed, helped to pass and signed legislation into law in December 2009 to expand the EDGE tax credit to benefit the auto industry. As a result of Illinois' investment, Mitsubishi has decided to stay and expand in Illinois, and is investing $45 million to produce a new Outlander Sport Crossover Utility Vehicle beginning in 2012.

"Mitsubishi's decision to produce a new generation of automobile here in Illinois is a strong testament to the strength of our workforce and the state's appealing business climate," said Governor Quinn. "By working to stabilize our economy and investing in companies that are investing in Illinois, we're helping to keep thousands of jobs in Illinois, helping reinvigorate our automobile industry and continuing our economic recovery."

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is administering the state's more than $29 million business investment package. The package consists of EDGE tax credits and Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) job training funds that will help enhance the skills of the company's workforce. Mitsubishi will also benefit from the Normal plant's location in an Enterprise Zone.

"Mitsubishi Motors remains fully committed to producing vehicles in Normal, and I would like to thank Governor Quinn for his support of the automotive industry.  We will build vehicles here not just for the United States, but for many nations around the world," said Mitsubishi Motors North America President Shinichi Kurihara.

The enhanced EDGE tax credit enables auto manufacturing companies, which are among Illinois' largest group of employers, to retain employee income tax withholdings and reinvest those funds into operations that create more jobs.

"Mitsubishi has a tremendous impact on the state and local economies, which is why Governor Quinn made it his top priority to help keep this company and these jobs right here in Illinois," said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. "This investment will help create a more sustainable future for the people of Central Illinois by keeping thousands of union workers on the job and continues our efforts to move the Illinois economy forward."

Illinois continues to see strong signs of economic growth and recovery. Illinois ranked fourth in the nation for job growth in 2010, leading the Midwest. December marked the ninth straight month of declining unemployment. Illinois ranks first in the Midwest for exports and foreign direct investment.

 

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07 Feb 2011

Treasurer Fitzgerald has a Vault Full of Valentine's Day Treasurers

By Michael Fitzgerald

DES MOINES, IA (02/04/2011)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald is looking to reunite owners with a vault full of cherished treasures this Valentine's Day. "We have an assortment of sentimental items waiting to be reclaimed such as rings, necklaces, pocket watches, love letters and photos," Fitzgerald said. "You never know, some of these items may have been tokens of affection given from Grandpa to Grandma on a past Valentine's Day."

Treasurer Fitzgerald encourages all Iowans, past and present to check and see if they have unclaimed property waiting for them by visiting www.greatiowatreasurehunt.com. "We are constantly updating our website. Our goal is to get as many people as possible to check their names for any unclaimed property," Fitzgerald stated.

The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt program has returned over $122 million to more than 310,000 individuals since Fitzgerald started it in 1983. Companies and banks in Iowa and from across the nation report millions of dollars in unclaimed property to the State Treasurer each year. Common examples of unclaimed property include money in forgotten savings/checking accounts, uncashed insurance benefit and payroll checks, IRA funds, lost stock and dividends, abandoned safe deposit box contents, gift cards, utility refunds or deposits.

Treasurer seekers are encouraged to visit www.greatiowatreasurehunt.com and check to see if they have unclaimed assets waiting for them. Individuals may also send an email to foundit@iowa.gov. For those who prefer corresponding by mail, please write to State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald, Great Iowa Treasure Hunt, Lucas State Office Building, Des Moines, IA 50319. Please make sure to provide current name, previous names and addresses.

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07 Feb 2011

Getting Fit Can Be More Fun with a Partner

By Kimberly Greene

MILWAUKEE, WI - Beginning a new fitness program can be tough - but studies show that participating in a program with a friend or loved one can lead to a more successful outcome. As Valentine's Day approaches, consider how inviting your special someone(s) to participate with you on a wellness journey could improve your health and your relationship.

Members of TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, have experienced success in reaching their fitness goals by partnering with loved ones and friends to get moving! No matter your goal, losing weight with a friend can be easier than going it alone. In fact, according to a study from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, people who work out with friends spend an average of 40 percent more time exercising than those who exercise alone.

TOPS members belong to local chapters, where group support provides positive reinforcement for follow-through on nutrition and exercise programs. Weekly weigh-ins and meetings provide accountability and camaraderie. And when members achieve a goal, they are recognized and celebrate together. The following TOPS members agree.

A chapter in Kansas had an influx of new members last spring who joined at the urging of each other. Linda Culbertson and Judy Harvey joined first. "I had some good success, and started telling everybody I work with that they should join TOPS," says Culbertson.

One month later, Glen Harvey, Judy's husband, joined the fitness fun, followed by Mary Orr, Pam and Chuck Ireland, and finally, Pat Orr, husband of Mary.

Since joining, the group of co-workers and spouses are successful and encouraging to each other. "You feel like you don't want to let the other person down," says Glen Harvey.

Couples who may be looking for a new way to express their love for each other should remember to keep it positive and enjoy time together in their new endeavor towards wellness. Consider these tips for fitness success:

• Be open to trying an activity that is different or completely new for both of you, like salsa classes or indoor rock-climbing. Incorporating new activities adds to your shared interests and helps keep things fresh.
• Try activities you can do side-by-side but at different paces. It's okay to work out on adjoining machines and pick your own level of intensity.
• Do assisted stretches together to increase both of your flexibility.
• Challenge yourself, but don't do too much too soon. The purpose of working out together is getting motivated to go farther than you think you can while spending time together.
• Be supportive, kind, and encouraging. Don't criticize each other.
• Bring the kids, too. Research indicates that family lifestyle influences children's weight. Family walks and pickup games, like basketball and soccer, are good exercise.

TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the original, nonprofit weight-loss support and wellness education organization, was established more than 63 years ago to champion weight-loss support and success. Founded and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, TOPS promotes successful, affordable weight management with a philosophy that combines healthy eating, regular exercise, wellness information, and support from others at weekly chapter meetings. TOPS has about 170,000 members in nearly 10,000 chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, view www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.


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07 Feb 2011

Volunteers Needed to Wrap Trees for LL&W's MillionTrees Project

By Dr. Jeffrey Bassman

East Moline, IL/January 28, 2011 - Chad Pregracke's Quad Cities-based environmental group needs volunteers to help in a project to improve the future of area waterways. Living Lands & Waters, an East Moline, Illinois non-profit organization is planning to distribute 100,000 free oak tree saplings in April as part of LL&W's "MillionTrees Project." The goal of the project is to improve the health of rivers in the Midwest, by re-establishing hardwoods that have been depleted by over-harvesting, flooding and disease.

Volunteers, including families with children, are invited to take part in tree wrapping events being held throughout March. "Wrapping 100,000 trees takes a lot of work" said Chad Pregracke, founder and President of Living Lands & Waters. Pregracke adds, "It's a great venue to help the community and educate people on why trees are important."

Trees provide shelter and nut-bearing hardwoods are a viable food source for wildlife and migratory birds. Slow-growing hardwoods like oaks have a harder time re-establishing themselves without help, and are often crowded out by faster growing species, like cottonwoods, willow and silver maples. Re-establishing hardwoods help increase biodiversity, reduce erosion and run-off and improve water and air quality.

Individual registration is not required, but strongly encouraged. Groups of 5 or more must pre-register. Volunteers can stay for an hour or all day. For questions or to register, please contact Ashley Stover at Ashley@livinglandsandwaters.org or at 309.737.5913.

Tree wrapping events will occur at the following places and locations:

QCCA Expo Center, Rock Island:

Saturday, March 19 8am - 4pm

-Sunday, March 20 8am - 4pm

-Monday, March 21 11am - 8pm

-Tuesday, March 22 11am - 8pm

Volunteers should show up at the North Hall of the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Avenue, Rock Island.

LL&W Headquarters@ (17624 Rte. 84 N, East Moline, IL)

-March 1-5, 8am - 5pm -March 14-17, 8am - 5pm

- March 7-12, 8am - 5pm -March 28 - April 2, 8am - 5pm

Volunteers will be asked to help with the following: bundling trees in newspaper, placing trees in bags, tying, tagging, or organizing them. Participating children MUST be supervised. Volunteers are asked to wear warm and comfortable clothes that can get dirty.

Trees will be distributed in April to individuals, families, agencies, business and organizations throughout the Midwest. The saplings will also be distributed to the general public during the QCCA Lawn and Garden Show, March 25-27th on a first come, first served basis. The goal of the MillionTrees Project is to grow and plant 1 MILLION trees.

Anyone interested in volunteering or reserving free oak saplings for planting may contact MillionTrees Project Coordinator, Ashley Stover at Ashley@livinglandsandwaters.org or at 309.737.5913. More information on the MillionTrees Project can be found at www.livinglandsandwaters.org/milliontrees.


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07 Feb 2011

Harkin Commends Iowan Randy Frescoln for Work to Rebuild Agriculture in Afghanistan

By Sen. Tom Harkin
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today commended Norwalk native Randy Frescoln as he begins a one-year assignment in Afghanistan to help rebuild the agricultural sector there.  Frescoln is one of 56 USDA employees serving in Afghanistan, where the growth of the agricultural sector is considered a key piece of the U.S. government's strategy to stabilize the country.   

"Our mission in Afghanistan is about much more than our military operations, but also requires that we stabilize the country in hopes that it can chart a different path for the future.  Critical to this effort is rebuilding the nation's agriculture sector.  I commend Randy Frescoln and all the individuals who are taking time to help in this mission," said Harkin.  "Randy is a great example of a selfless Iowan serving his country. He has been an indispensable member of Iowa's Rural Development team and I wish him all the best in his new role.  We look forward to his safe return home upon completion of this important work."

Frescoln has most recently served as Business and Cooperative Program Director with USDA Rural Development in Des Moines.  He received a Bachelor of Science degree in farm operations as well as a Master of Science degree in professional agriculture, both from Iowa State University in Ames.  Formerly, Frescoln served as a USDA agricultural expert in Afghanistan from 2004-2005, as well as in Iraq from 2006-2007.  In Iraq, Frescoln led a variety of programs in collaboration with the U.S. military, the Department of State and Iraqi agricultural officials and universities.  

According to USDA, since 2003, employees deployed to Afghanistan have served as agricultural experts within civilian-military units.  USDA agricultural experts work side by side with Afghans and U.S. government and international partners in 24 of Afghanistan's 34 rural provinces.  At the provincial and district levels, USDA agricultural experts train local government representatives and Afghan extension workers in plant and animal health, natural resources management, and improved cultivation and production methods.
07 Feb 2011

Grassley Presses Administration to Move Forward on Trade Agreements

By Sen Chuck Grassley

WASHINGTON - Senator Chuck Grassley in a letter to President Barack Obama yesterday pressed for action on three pending trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea.

Grassley said that he was encouraged to hear the positive remarks in last week's State of the Union speech, but hopes the President's actions meet his rhetoric.

"Increasing international trade is key to economic recovery and job creation," Grassley said.  "The rest of the world is moving forward, at the expense of America's workforce.  It's time for the United States to get off the sidelines and start making international trade a priority."

Grassley noted that the Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, once fully implemented could provide $910 million in gains each year for U.S. agriculture, and the potential benefits for Korea could be $1.6 billion for agriculture.

Here is a copy of the text of Grassley's letter.

February 1, 2011

The Honorable Barack H. Obama

President of the United States

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20500

 

Dear President Obama,

The most critical aspect to jumpstart our nation's economic recovery is job growth.  In your recent State of the Union on January 25, 2011 you spoke about our three pending Trade Promotion Agreements (TPAs) as a tool to support our economy.  I commend you for highlighting the need to strengthen our trade relations with Colombia, Panama and South Korea.  However, you also called attention to these three pending agreements in your last State of the Union on January 27, 2010.

Unfortunately we are no closer today than we were a year ago in advancing these TPAs.  I therefore reiterate my urgent request that your Administration submit implementing legislation to Congress for each of these agreements without delay.  If we are to meet the goal of the National Export Initiative to double exports, we must break down trade barriers beginning with the three TPAs which are already negotiated.

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Colombia TPA, once fully implemented could provide $910 million in gains each year for U.S. agriculture.   The potential benefits for Korea are even greater - $1.6 billion for agriculture alone.  The result is jobs - jobs we desperately need in the heartland and across the U.S.

It's time to back up your words with actions.  I strongly urge you to send all three agreements to Congress for approval as quickly as possible.  Thank you for your attention to this important issue and I look forward to working with you to bring these trade agreements to completion.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Grassley

United States Senator

07 Feb 2011

Operation Gratitude Launches Wounded Warrior Care Package Program

By Operation Graditude

Operation Gratitude Extends its Outreach to Our Wounded Warriors

 

Encino, CA--February 3, 2011: Having already shipped more than 600,000 care packages to service men and women deployed in combat zones, Operation Gratitude is pleased to announce a new program tailored to those wounded in service to their country.

 

Operation Gratitude will begin providing special Wounded Warrior Care Packages to service members recovering in Military Hospitals and Wounded Warrior Transition units located on military bases throughout the United States.

Wounded Warrior

Prior Wounded Warrior helps others heal at Brooke Army Medical Center WWTU

Further, in recognition that the Wounded Warrior often expresses deep concern for their buddies remaining on the front line, Operation Gratitude will send care packages on behalf of the Wounded Warrior to the rest of his or her unit still deployed downrange.

 

"We hope that sending those packages to their deployed comrades will help the wounded feel they are still contributing to the mission and supporting their buddies" according to Operation Gratitude founder, Carolyn Blashek.

 

Wounded Warrior Transition Units ("WWTU") provide critical support to the wounded and their families, focusing on those requiring six months or more of rehabilitative care and complex medical management.

 

Operation Gratitude Wounded Warrior Care Package deliveries will begin in February.  Patients at Bethesda National Naval Medical Center and soldiers in the WWTU at Ft. Polk, Louisiana will be among the first to receive the shipments.

 

"Here at the Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC), we provide the non-medical support to the Wounded Warrior and their families assigned/attached to the  Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Polk," explained an SFAC Specialist.  "Your care packages will go a long way in letting the Wounded Warriors here at Fort Polk know that people care."

 

Operation Gratitude's annual goal is to provide 10,000 of the Wounded Warrior Care Packages filled with specially selected items donated through the generosity of corporate sponsors and supportive citizens, and assembled by the organization's dedicated volunteers.  More packages will be assembled and shipped if requested.

 

According to representatives at Wounded Warrior facilities, the most needed items are: Healthy Snacks, Entertainment items, Hygiene products, iPods and Gift Cards from chain stores such as supermarkets, drugstores, Target and Walmart.

 

As with its Care Packages to deployed troops, Operation Gratitude will provide every American a way to express their appreciation and encouragement to our heroes wounded in combat by donating items, contributing funds, crafting hand-made items and writing letters.

 

Operation Gratitude is particularly requesting personal letters of support and encouragement in order to include several in each package.  For information on writing letters: Letter Writing Flyer

For those wishing to thank a Wounded Warrior, letters and items can be sent to:

Operation Gratitude

17330 Victory Boulevard

Van Nuys, CA 91406

Attn: Wounded Warrior Program

For more information on how to support Wounded Warriors and troops deployed in harm's way, visit: 
How You Can Help

 

Financial donations can be made online here: Donate to Wounded Warriors or by check made payable and addressed to:

Operation Gratitude

16444 Refugio Road

Encino, CA 91436

07 Feb 2011

SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONTINUES TO STRESS BLOOD SUPPLY

By THERESA KUHLMANN
All eligible donors are urged to give blood or platelets to help replenish decreasing supply

PEORIA, Ill. (February 3, 2011) - The massive winter storm that pounded much of the United States this week increased the number of canceled blood and platelet donations through the American Red Cross to nearly 23,000 since January 1, 2011. Of that number, 1,027 donations have been canceled in Illinois, eastern Iowa and eastern Missouri since Monday, January 31. The situation continues to stress the Red Cross national blood supply for more than 3,000 hospitals across the country.

"The need for blood is constant - patients can't take a snow day," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Blood Services Region.  "We want our donors to stay safe when severe weather strikes. But if it is safe to travel, it's important to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment to help replenish the blood supply."

The Red Cross urges all eligible donors in unaffected areas to make an appointment to give blood or platelets today, and those in affected areas to donate as soon as travel is safe, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting HTUredcrossblood.orgUTH. All blood types are needed, but there is a special need for donors with type O negative, A negative and B negative blood. Donations will help replenish the Red Cross blood supply to ensure that blood products are readily available for patients with serious medical needs. A listing of upcoming blood drives follows at the end of this news release.

The Red Cross overstocked major medical centers in some of the hardest hit areas in the Midwest earlier in the week expecting airport and road closures. All wheel drive Red Cross vehicles were also readied and deployed to make emergency deliveries. And local law enforcement assisted with emergency deliveries of blood products in some cases.

People have been responding to the call for blood donations, and the Red Cross is grateful to those who are stepping up to donate blood and build the blood supply back to sufficient levels. Every two seconds a patient in the United States needs a blood transfusion. Blood is perishable and has no substitute. Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days and platelets just 5 days - they must be replenished constantly.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.  Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.

Helping those affected by the storm
TThe American Red Cross has also been on the ground in 19 states, offering food, comfort and a safe place to stay to people affected by the massive winter storm which has buried the country in ice and snow from the Rocky Mountains to Maine.

In Chicago alone, more than 360 people spent Tuesday night in Red Cross shelters. Many were motorists stranded by the storm. In Tulsa, Red Cross disaster workers housed almost 70 people Tuesday night who could not make it home due to the storm.

To help people affected by this winter storm and thousands of disasters in this country and around the world, visit HTUredcross.orgUTH, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation's blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.

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