YSU Visiting circus, Red Cross team up for blood drive

YOUNGSTOWN -- The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & amp; Bailey Circus -- which will make its first appearance in Youngstown Sept. 14-17 at Chevrolet Centre -- is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive.
The drive will be held from 1 to 7 p.m. Friday at Youngstown State University's McKay Auditorium, inside the education building on Rayen Avenue.
The first 500 people who donate a pint of blood will receive a red clown nose and one complimentary pass to the Sept. 14 circus performance.
A clown from the world-famous Ringling Bros. Clown Alley will entertain donors and volunteers.
How to donate
Because the summer months put a strain on the community blood supply, the American Red Cross expects to have a continued demand for all blood types, especially Type O and Type B. Appointments can be made by calling (330) 726-6063. Walk-ins will be taken on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Donors must be at least 17 years old and in good health; weigh at least 110 pounds; and bring either a photo identification or donor card. It is recommended that donors eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within four hours of donating.
Tickets for the circus go on sale Friday and will be available at the Chevrolet Centre box office; at www.gettix.net; or by calling (866) 443-8849.
There will be seven Youngstown performances: Sept. 14 and 15 at 7 p.m.; Sept. 16 at 11 a.m. and 3 and 7 p.m.; and Sept. 17 at 1 and 5 p.m.