By Charlotte Sanders

Senior Writer

The people of this tri-county area are being asked to aupport the American Red Cross and its activities by taking part in a Rotary Club-sponsored auction to be held Thursday, March 31, at the Williamson fire station.

Williamson Mayor Darrin McCormick has come forward with a proclamation citing the services provided by the ARC since its founding in 1881 and designating March as American Red Cross month.

The mayor read his proclamation at Wednesday's meeting of the Williamson City Council. Present for the meeting was Williamson Rotary President Dr. Diane E. Shafer, who lauded the council for its support of the ARC and pointed out the items and services that can be purchased by the public during the auction starting at 6 p.m. Thursday.

Besides providing fun, the annual auction gives citizens an opportunity to bid on such things as tools, services, manicures, haircuts, meals, lodging, pizzas, oil changes for your automobiles, savings bonds and coin sets.

Williamson's four-star general, "Bob "Doc" Foglesong also is participating with The donation of a wreath.

Williamson native, Hazel Pasquale, member of a well-known local family, has donated one of her colorful floral paintings.

By the time the auctioneer pounds his gavel to signal the start of the auction, the collection of items for bidding no doubt will have greatly increased.

Shafer stressed that the funds derived from the auction will be put to good use by the Red Cross, which is known world-wide for its disaster services, safety training, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) in life-saving situations , first aid and life guard services.

Mayor McCormick stressed how the American Red Cross, for more than 130 years, has stood the test of time and need in many dire situations. "The American Red Cross has helped millions of individuals overcome the effects of natural disasters and emergencies by providing shelter, food, counseling, and other assistance," he stated.

"This organization plays an important role in our communities by helping maintain our country's blood supply, offering programs for youth and the elderly, supporting members of the military and their families, and promoting health and emergency preparedness," McCormick pointed out.

He said the inspiring organization helps improve the lives of those in need and continues to assist in the recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast.

Noting that the humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross extends around the world, McCormick said "My administration is proud to work with it to support efforts to combat malaria, measles, HIV/AIDS, and other diseases that afffect millions of people each year in Africa and throughout the world. The American Red Cross is committed to helping improve the prevention and treatment of diseases and is working to strengthen community health programs in developing areas of the world. Those efforts help save lives and show the strength and generosity of America."

While commending the good work of the American Red

Cross, the mayor enouraged all citizens to help make our world a better place by volunteering their time, energy and talents for others. Participating in the auction is one way of showing support, he added. Rotarians joined him in asking the public to support the auction.