Bloodfest II Taking Place Wednesday In Hauppauge

Bloodfest II, the second annual blood drive and barbecue hosted by Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader John M. Kennedy Jr. (12th District), will be held Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the North County Complex (725 Veterans Memorial Highway).

Like at last year's inaugural event, at which 97 pints of blood were donated, two New York Mets tickets will be given to each person who is screened to donate blood. Legislator Kennedy will host a barbecue for blood donors as well as those who bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Long Island Cares’ Harry Chapin Food Bank.

“Saving lives by donating blood is always its own incentive, but we are sweetening the deal at my annual blood drive and barbecue by providing willing donors with free lunch, great entertainment and tickets to see the Mets,” said Legislator Kennedy.  “Those who prefer not to give blood can share in the food and fun, too, by bringing nonperishable food items to stock local food pantries.  Between blood for medical procedures and food for sustenance, this charitable barbecue will provide the necessities of life to our community members in peril.”

This year’s drive is co-sponsored by the Stony Brook University rugby team. Last October, Legislator Kennedy and the rugby team hosted a blood drive on campus that brought in 123 pints of blood.

“We are proud to once again collaborate with Legislator Kennedy to generate blood donations and aid our fellow Long Islanders in need of life-saving blood transfusions,” said Seawolves Rugby President Cyril Kottuppallil.

Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 16 years old. Those over the age of 76 require a doctor’s note; those who are 16 require parental permission. Donors are encouraged to eat low-fat foods and drink fluids before donating. Anyone who has received a tattoo in the last 12 months are ineligible.

For further information, contact Legislator Kennedy’s office at 631-854-3735.