PEORIA, Ill. (July 25, 2008) – On Monday, August 4 at 10 a.m., the American Red Cross, 105.7 the X, the Peoria Civic Center and the East Peoria High School Economists will host a press conference to announce special details of the second annual Rock N’ Roll Up Your Sleeve Blood Drive. The press conference will be held in the Great Hall at the Peoria Civic Center. Attending the press conference will be blood recipients and blood donors as well as staff from the Red Cross, Peoria Civic Center, 105.7 the X and East Peoria High School. 

The Rock N’ Roll Up Your Sleeve Blood Drive is being held to increase blood donations in this summer. While local blood inventories are presently stable, they must be maintained during the traditional summer slowdown so patients have the blood they need. The Red Cross also anticipates other areas of the country will soon face serious blood shortages and must stand ready to help avert shortfalls.

The Rock N’ Roll Up Your Sleeve Blood Drive will be held on Thursday, August 7 from 
1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Peoria Civic Center. Several local rock bands will perform including Pacific Overcast. Sinking In, Mindset Evolution and Echovalve. The concert will be 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and is free to all blood drive participants! 

In addition to the free concert, all blood drive participants will have the chance to win some great raffle prizes. Also, 105.7 the X will be giving away tickets to the Projekt Revolution Tour featuring Linkin Park. If someone does not wish to present to donate blood, but would like to attend the rock concert, a $10 donation to the American Red Cross will be collected at the event.

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be at least 17 years old or 16 years old with a signed parent/guardian consent form and must weigh at least 110 pounds.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by community donations, the American Red Cross is a nationwide network of nearly 1,000 Chapters and Blood Services Regions. The Red Cross is a leading supplier of blood products to hospitals nationwide and 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.