Good advice all around
First, let me emphasize how important I think it is to give blood. I've donated about six gallons myself. While a few artificial products may help replace blood volume, human blood is the only option for those undergoing surgery or facing certain illnesses.
Having said that, I must now say anyone donating blood should do so only at a recognized blood donation center or during an official blood drive.
This announcement has to be made following reports that a Newton pharmacist has been taking blood samples from people for years, claiming they were part of a research project.
I know pharmacists. My brother is one. I've never heard him discuss taking blood samples.
Police say this person took blood samples in the back room of a pharmacy, a church hall, even in the victim's car. There is very little chance of something positive happening if a person, even in a white lab coat, asks to go to your car and stick a needle in your arm.
I mentioned the case to friends recently. One said "it sounds like people got what they deserved." After all, it wasn't like he tippy-toed after these people, jabbed them with a needle, and held them down until the syringe was full. They were willing participants.
Speaking of heart rates, I recently found out that Camille Wessel, a 2000 Marion High School graduate, is featured in a calendar issued by a fraternity at Kansas State University.
Before you misinterpret, the calendars aren't nasty. The fraternity sells them to raise money for charity, and have done so for 18 years. Camille's photo oversees October. It is more glamorous than sexy, which I hope isn't an insult. She's wearing slacks and a fancy crop top. I've seen more skin at summer church services than she shows in the calendar. She looks like a Vogue model instead of a stereotypical calendar girl.
The other models are in cut-offs and/or bikinis, but don't show anything inappropriate. I will testify that Miss February deserved a 31-day month — she could have worn a parka and made it into the calendar.
I doubt the fraternity ever has anyone who violates house rules: "We're meeting the 36 finalists Thursday. Frank, your dues are late. You can't attend."
Maybe the Marion Kiwanis Club could start a contest
— MATT NEWHOUSE
