We want to take this opportunity to thank the residents of Bureau County who step up and donate blood and give financially to the American Red Cross and other local organizations when the need is there. Once again, you are stepping up and making a difference. An example is the successful blood drive we had last week in Princeton. This will touch a number of lives, and we thank all of those who participated.

There will continue to be a financial need as well as a need for blood donations for some time to come due to the devastation left by Hurricane Sandy. We also must continue the support of our neighbors in Bureau County. We thank those who help, and we invite all to join us in the effort to help our family, our friends, our neighbors and those in need.

Lori Compton,