Theater in the park
The Community Theatre groups are presenting their annual summer plays this week. The children’s production is at 6 p.m. each night. The adults perform at 7:10 p.m.
Mike Mercer of Emporia sent a note to The Gazette encouraging folks to attend. “While the children’s group will entertain you with a series of poem readings, the adult play is a Shakespeare play, “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Mercer said. “This is something free of charge and everyone is invited to attend.
“Why not pack up a lawn chair or a blanket and something cool to drink and head down to the park for some pretty good entertainment?,” Mercer asks. “Sure it’s kind of on the warm side, but you will probably be cooler than the performers who are in costume. This group has always put on great performances and it is shame more people don’t attend.”
Blood drive
Law enforcement officers and firefighters from Emporia have teamed up with the American Red Cross to raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood through the Battle of the Badges blood drive competition to be held from 1 to 7 p.m. July 31 and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Emporia Presbyterian Church West Campus, 1702 W. 15th Ave.
Everyone who comes in to donate will receive a free Battle of the Badges T-shirt, a chance to vote for law enforcement or firefighters to determine this year’s winner and a NASCAR lanyard.
The Red Cross prefers appointments. To make an appointment, call 800-GIVE-LIFE (800-448-3543). Walk-in donors are welcome; however, those with appointments will be given priority. Participants are to bring a donor card or photo ID, must be in good health, weigh 110 pounds or more and be at least 17 years old (16 in Kansas with completed Parental Consent form. See www.bloodgiveslife.org to print the required consent form and reading materials).