The 5th Annual Donald Castellucci Blood Drive will be held on Wednesday, December 12, from 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm at the Owego Elks Club, Front Street, Owego. 

 Please make an appointment by calling (607) 687-0965 or 1-800-292-6525. Walk ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred to keep the waiting time to a minimum.
 Donald Castellucci, Jr., a Town of Owego Councilman, has held this blood drive every year since his father died on Christmas Day in 1997.

 During his father's last weeks, Don noticed all the blood and transfusions being administered to keep his father alive. Never being a donor before, Don sensed a need to give something back. He became a first-time donor at his first blood drive in 1998. And now, each year at Christmastime, Don holds a Blood Drive in his father's memory. "I know someone took the time to keep my dad alive," Don said. "I hope now my efforts will afford some families the same peace of mind I was able to feel."

 The Owego Elks Club has been very accommodating the past five years. The central location contributes every bit to the success of the blood drive. 

 This year, Don wants to get at least three first-time donors. He is also adding a new twist. The first 50 donors will receive a spaghetti and meatball dinner. Don will use the family recipe as he slaves in the kitchen!

 There will also be a free will donation basket set up to either donate food for the holidays or make a cash donation to the Tioga County Rural Ministry. You can donate blood to help with the shortages created by the September 11 tragedy and donate to your local community through the Rural Ministry. So, this year, let's make it a very Merry Christmas and help our neighbors.