Letters: Ecology class thanks 'coaches'

Ecology class

thanks 'coaches'

We, the 2006 ecology class of Park Rapids Area High School, would like to thank Doug Kingsley of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Russ Johnsrud of the Natural Resource Conservation Service and Molly MacGregor of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for taking the time to visit our class and help us prepare for the Envirothon competition. The information they provided was very helpful.

We were able to take first place at the regional competition, which was held at Lake Bemidji State Park, and ninth place at the state competition, which was held at Lake Bronson State Park.

We would also like to say thanks to all who helped organize these events, especially Marilyn Berry of the Hubbard County SWCD and the School Forest Committee for helping pay some of the expenses while at the state competition.

Thanks again.

Jessica Girtz, Chelsey Long and the 2006 ecology class

Ponsford-Osage

blood drive

Bette Pachel, blood drive coordinator, reports a good turnout for the recent blood drive held for Ponsford and Osage. Forty-three people volunteered to donate and 38 units of blood were drawn during the drive. Five donors donated on the automated 2RBC machine, which collects two units of red blood cells at once. There were nine first-time donors.

This is a clear example of concerned citizens in this area responding unselfishly to a great need - the need for blood. You can all feel pride that these volunteer donors are your friends and neighbors.

The Kozy Klan Club sponsored the blood drive. Grace Community Church of Osage provided space to hold the drive.

Blood drives don't just happen. Hours of work are necessary to organize a successful blood drive and many people have helped to make the Ponsford-Osage community blood drive work well.

Blood is for sharing; you have truly given the "gift of life."

Rob Miller

United Blood Services, Fargo