Paris, Tenn.–A large crowd was on hand for today’s grand opening of the new LIFELINE Blood Services Paris Center at 211 Tyson Ave. CEO John Miller said, “This is more than just a building”, noting the community spirit that brought it to fruition.
Marketing Manager Melinda Reid noted there still will be local blood drives, even with the new center now open. “We’re all about meeting people where they are.” At the new center, donors can donate blood and platelets. She noted that blood donations take some 15 minutes, while donating platelets takes about 1 1/2 hours. The new center features a relaxing atmosphere for the donations, with headphones, televisions and other amenities.
Miller said the center has a Henry County Community Board made up of: Lorri Dalton, Ro Ellen Rushing, Danny Veazey, Charlotte Mann, Mallorie Hutson, Dawn Ninness, Wendy Barnhart, Jean Wimberly, Nancy Moore, Susan Jones, Curtis Jones, Johnathan Miller.
There are local touches, including a mural showcasing the local landmarks such as the courthouse and Eiffel Tower, framed photos of local people, including Mark Rudy, Mike Key and Meg Crawford, and their stories.
Photo by Shannon McFarlin.