Good Food.  Good Friends.  Honoring those who Served.

Carino’s Italian Restaurant and the American Red Cross team up to help.

We live in a nation that is free. But that freedom has a price. It requires sacrifice from a select group of brave men and women who ensure our liberties. On November 10th, please join Carino’s Italian Restaurant and the American Red Cross in honoring these unselfish patriots. By printing vouchers, bringing it with you, and filling it out and then place it in the American Red Cross box, Carino’s Italian Restaurant will donate 15% of their sales to the American Red Cross for the day. If you forget your voucher, just as your friendly wait staff for one. They will gladly provide you with one.

Robin Raney, CEO of the South Plains Regional Chapter said “We are very thankful to the management and wait staff at Carino’s Italian Restaurant for partnering with us for this event. They are very consciences corporate citizens, who provided the leadership for this project.”

“Last year, we provided over 500 emergency connections to our military personnel. These are connections allow our brave military to receive important messages from their loved ones. It’s an important part of our mission at the American Red Cross.” Raney continued.

Raney concluded, “In addition to our service to our brave military, your donation will provide assistance to families after a disaster, or simply ease someone’s suffering. For over 90 years, the South Plains Regional Chapter has always been there whenever, wherever we are needed. Your donation today will make an impact tomorrow.”

And the best part is it does not cost you a penny more than your meal!

Remember to bring your voucher or ask your wait staff.

Carino's Restaurant Relief Coupon

WASHINGTON, Wednesday, October 21, 2009 — A new American Red Cross poll shows that while concerns about exposure to the H1N1 (swine flu) virus remain high, women are more likely than men to make extra efforts to cover coughs and sneezes with tissue, wash their hands more carefully and use hand sanitizer more often.  

Since it was first identified in April, the H1N1 virus has been spreading across the country and the world. The new Red Cross survey of 1,005 adults in the U.S., which was completed October 11th, found that 22 percent said they know someone who has had the H1N1 virus.

The survey found significant differences in how men and women have reacted to the threat of the H1N1 flu.

“The flu doesn’t favor one gender over another, so it’s important for everyone to take steps to reduce the spread of H1N1,” said Sharon Stanley, Chief Nurse of the American Red Cross.

The survey also found that vaccination is on the minds of women. The survey found that more women (35%) have gotten their seasonal flu shots this year than men (26%). At the same time, women are more concerned than men about the safety of the H1N1 vaccine, with 60% of women expressing concern to 44% of men.

“Vaccines are the most powerful public health tool for controlling both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus,” Stanley said. “In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu, men, women and children can help reduce their exposure by practicing good hand-washing hygiene, using hand sanitizer and covering their cough.”

Many People Going to Work or School When Sick

The survey also looked at how Americans are responding to H1N1 in the work place and found that in the past two months, in one in five households, someone has gone to work or school when they were sick.

“People who have the flu should stay home from work or school to help prevent passing the illness on to someone else,” said Stanley. “Each of us has the responsibility to be a good neighbor. To help keep others from becoming sick, do your part by washing your hands, sneezing into your arm, using hand sanitizer and staying home when ill.”

While 70 percent of Americans are confident that they could take time off from work to care for someone with the flu, only 20 percent have actually talked to their supervisor about what happens if they need to take time off from work.

Additional survey findings:

• 78% started washing their hands more carefully and more often.  
• 63% are making an extra effort to clean surfaces at home or work with disinfectant.
• 73% know what symptoms to look for that would tell them if their loved one needed to go to a hospital.

As with any emergency, the Red Cross encourages people to prepare by getting an emergency kit, making a plan and being informed.

The Red Cross has recently released a Pandemic Flu educational program for small businesses to help raise awareness and educate workplaces on what to expect and how to plan for a pandemic.  Smaller companies often operate with fewer resources and limited capacity compared to their larger counterparts and can be particularly at risk for disruptions resulting from a flu pandemic. 

More information about H1N1 and the seasonal flu is available at www.redcross.org/pandemicflu. This site contains video resources, preparedness tips and information about how to help lessen the spread of the flu virus as well as information for people caring for loved ones with the flu.  The Red Cross also has products available at www.redcrossstore.org that promote healthier environments and help people protect themselves from the spread of germs.

The telephone survey of 1,005 U.S. adults 18 years and older was conducted October 8-11, 2009 by CARAVAN® Opinion Research Corporation. The margin of error is +/- 3.1 percent.

CARAVAN® Opinion Research Corporation conducted three telephone surveys of U.S. Adults on behalf of the American Red Cross, with the most recent in October 2009 (May 1-4, 2009, 1,004 Respondents; July 17-20, 2009, 1,002 Respondents; and October 8-11, 2009, 1,005 Respondents).  Margin of error for each is +/- 3.1 percent at the 95% confidence level.

The South Plains Regional Chapter is holding a benefit drawing during this year's Champions Breakfast on September 11th. Each winning ticket entitles you to randomly select a box containing one of the packages below. Each package has a value of at least $1,000 and you do not need to be present to win. Purchase your tickets online or call 765-8534 today!

How does $20 help the Red Cross?

It's a pair of shoes for someone who's lost everything in a house fire. 2 tickets ($40) help replace a critical medication after a fire. 5 tickets can buy couple sets of clothing for a disaster victim. It's not much, but for someone who's just been through a disaster it often means the difference between beginning their recovery as a "victim" or with dignity.

Package Details

Package 1: Guns Up! A Texas Tech Package for those who bleed Red and Black. This package includes:

• Alumni Association passes
• Football tickets
• Basketball tickets
• A Round of Golf for two, with cart, at the Rawls Golf Course
• A Fire Pit & Grill with Rotisserie from the West Texas Lee Company
• ...and much more

Package 2: Just for Two! This is the perfect gift for you and that special someone! This package includes:

• Two night stay at the Overton Hotel & Conference Center
• Dinner for two to Skyviews
• A gift from Robert Lance Jewelers
• ...and much more

Package 3: High in the Sky! Have the chance to experience Lubbock at a whole new level! This package features:

• A helicopter ride courtesy of AeroCare

Package 4: The Great Escape! Explore the traveler within you! This package includes:

• Two round-trip tickets anywhere Southwest Airlines flies
• a 2-night stay at the Lodge at Sierra Blanca in Ruidosa

Purchase Tickets Online

Make Your Home "Fire Safe"

• Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and on each additional level of your home.
• If people sleep with doors closed, install smoke alarms inside sleeping areas, too.
• Use the test button to check each smoke alarm once a month. When necessary, replace batteries immediately. Replace all batteries once a year.
• Vacuum away cobwebs and dust from your smoke alarms monthly.
• Smoke alarms become less sensitive over time. Replace your smoke alarms every ten years.
• Consider having one or more working fire extinguishers in your home. Get training from the fire department in how to use them.
• Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.

With reports of freezing rain expected throughout parts of the South Plains tonight, the American Red Cross is urging families to take the following actions now to prepare for hazardous winter weather.

The Red Cross recommends everyone prepare for severe weather conditions in the following ways:

Get a Disaster Supplies Kit For Your Home:

• Three-day supply of water (one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and hygiene).
• Three-day supply of non perishable, high-energy food and a manual can opener.
• First aid kit and essential medications.
• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Extra warm clothing, including boots, mittens, and a hat.
• Copies of important documents (birth certificate, title/deed to home, insurance policies, etc) in a water-proof container.

Get a Disaster Supplies Kit For Your Vehicle: (all of the above plus)

• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• Jumper cables.
• Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type).
• Compass and road maps.
• Shovel.
• Tire repair kit and pump.
• Flares.
• Extra clothing to keep dry.
• Sack of sand or cat litter (for tire traction).
• Tow rope.

Be Informed:

• Learn how you would receive information from local officials should hazardous winter weather affect your neighborhood.
• Know the difference between a winter storm WATCH (a winter storm is possible in your area) and a winter storm WARNING (a winter storm is headed for your area).

If the Power Goes Out:

• Do not use candles for lighting if the power goes out. Use flashlights only.
• Use items in the refrigerator first, then freezer, then non-perishable foods.
• Use generators correctly – If you have a portable generator and the power goes out, always plan to keep the generator outdoors. Never operate it inside, including the basement, garage, carport or near any open windows. Connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not hook up a generator directly to your home's wiring.

Hazardous Winter Travel:

The American Red Cross strongly urges everyone to monitor weather reports and follow the directions of local authorities. If travel is absolutely necessary during potentially dangerous winter weather, inform someone of your travel route, destination and expected arrival time. Store a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle and remember to keep the gas tank near full to avoid ice building up in the gas tank and fuel lines.

In Case of Black Ice:

• Stay with your vehicle. Do not try to walk to safety as you risk developing hypothermia and/or frostbite.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
• Start the vehicle and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the vehicle.
• As you sit, move your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to help you stay warm.
• Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.
• Leave the overhead light on inside the vehicle when the engine is running so you can be seen.
• After the snow has stopped falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.

Last night the Lubbock Fire Department requested American Red Cross assistance to help families impacted by last night's apartment fire. The fire caused substantial damage to the building rendering 13 adults, 2 children and 1 baby temporarily homeless. Red Cross volunteers placed the families in local hotels temporarily as those affected scramble to find new homes.

The Red Cross asks for financial assistance to help families, like those affected last night, during times of need. “It is because of the generosity of the American people that we are able to fulfill our mission” stated CEO, Robin Raney. Last year the local Red Cross chapter responded to about 81 fire calls, helping families immediately begin rebuilding their lives. Please follow these safety tips to help keep your family prepared in case of emergency.

Practice Wildfire Safety

• People start most wildfires . . . find out how you can promote and practice wildfire safety.
• Contact your local fire department, health department, or forestry office for information on fire laws. Make sure that fire vehicles can get to your home. Clearly mark all driveway entrances and display your name and address.
• Report hazardous conditions that could cause a wildfire.
• Teach children about fire safety. Keep matches out of their reach.
• Post fire emergency telephone numbers.
• Plan several escape routes away from your home by car and by foot.
• Talk to your neighbors about wildfire safety. Plan how the neighborhood could work together after a wildfire. Make a list of your neighbors' skills, such as medical or technical. Consider how you could help neighbors who have special needs, such as elderly or disabled persons. Make plans to take care of children who may be on their own if parents can't get home.

Protect Your Home

• Regularly clean roof and gutters.
• Inspect chimneys at least twice a year. Clean them at least once a year. Keep the dampers in good working order. Equip chimneys and stovepipes with a spark arrester that meets the requirements of National Fire Protection Association Code 211. (Contact your local fire department for exact specifications.)
• Use 1/2-inch mesh screen beneath porches, decks, floor areas, and the home itself. Also, screen openings to floors, roof, and attic.
• Install a smoke detector on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms; test monthly and change the batteries at least once each year.
• Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type) and show them where it's kept.
• Keep a ladder that will reach the roof.
• Consider installing protective shutters or heavy fire-resistant drapes.
• Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tools: a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket, and shovel.

Lubbock Mayor Tom Martin
Additional Photos

Lubbock Mayor Tom Martin joined volunteers and staff of the American Red Cross South Plains Regional Chapter and representatives of Texas Tech student organizations to recognize March 2009 as Red Cross Month in Lubbock and to officially start this month’s Heroes Campaign.  Mayor Martin reminded the students that we build the society we live in and that community service is how we pay our civic rent.  By participating in the campaign, Texas Tech students are honoring an American tradition of service and compassion.

The American Red Cross and students organizations from Texas Tech University have committed to helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies by becoming HEROES.

March is National Red Cross Month, just as it’s been the last 60 years since President Franklin D. Roosevelt first proclaimed it. By joining our annual Heroes Campaign during the month of March, Tech students are honoring an American tradition by supporting a vital core community service that people count on every day.

Students become a Hero for the Red Cross when they raise $1,000 or more for the South Plains Regional Chapter. The Residents Halls, Greek Life, Agricultural Council, Recreational Sports and numerous other organizations are helping to make this Inaugural Heroes Campaign a success. This grass roots fundraising campaign allows to students to raise money and awareness in any manner they desire.  Many of them are hosting online campaigns, join a team or donate by going to lubbock.redcross.org and clicking on the Heroes logo!

Join Texas Tech students, Lubbock’s Mayor Martin, Campaign Chair Kelli Stumbo and numerous other friends of the Red Cross on Wednesday, March 4th at 9:00 a.m. to celebrate our campaign Kick-Off in front of the Texas Tech University Student Union Building.

This campaign will culminate with an awards ceremony where plaques, parties and recognition items will be distributed to Heroes on Friday, March 27th.

Media sponsor Z102 will help raise awareness throughout the campaign with radio interviews and remotes.

Funds raised will be used to provide services locally. Whether you raise Red Cross funds through a Heroes Team, or you choose to make a one-time gift to your local chapter, your help is critical to provide comfort, care and hope to disaster victims.

There's a place where a complete stranger will reach out to help their neighbor. That place is called America, where we look out for each other. And when you become a Hero for the American Red Cross, you can change a life, starting with your own.

Donate to the American Red Cross today. Become a volunteer and visit redcrossyouth.org.

BROWNFIELD, TX, November 14, 2008—The American Red Cross South Plains Regional Chapter assisted a Brownfield family whose home was destroyed by fire earlier this week.  Red Cross volunteers provided the family of six with food, clothing, and temporary shelter.  The family told the Red Cross that the fire was caused by a blanket that covered a heating vent.

“We’re deeply saddened by this family’s loss,” said volunteer Raymond Collins.  “As we continue to work with those involved, we’d like to remind everyone to act now to prevent and prepare for home fires in Brownfield and the rest of the South Plains.”

Winter Fire Safety Tips

• Never use a range or an over as a supplemental heating device.  Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes
• Never use an electrical space heater, with an extension cord and be sure not to overload the circuit the heater is on.
• Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms or areas where they may come in contact with water.
• Be certain you have at least 2 feet of clearance around any electrical space heaters or heating vents
• The Red Cross recommends installing smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area and on each level of your home.  If you sleep with closed doors, install alarms inside each sleeping area.  Test and clean your smoke alarms once a month.  smoke alarm batteries should be replaced once a year.
• Every family should have a fire escape plan that includes at least two escape routes from every room in the home.  Also chose a convenient meeting place at a safe distance from your home.  Practice your escape plan at least twice a year with all family members.

Last year the South Plains Regional Chapter responded to nearly 100 home fires in the South Plains.  For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.redcross.org/homefires.  The South Plains Regional Chapter serves Bailey, Cochran, Crosby, Dickens, Floyd, Garza, Hale, Hockley, Kent, Lamb, Lubbock, Lynn, Motley, Terry, and Yoakum Counties.

The South Plains Regional Chapter of the American Red Cross wants to remind South Plains residents to use candles with care and take action to prevent home fires. Nationally, candles cause an estimated 15,600 home fires, claiming 150 lives, injuring 1,270 people, and resulting in $539 million in property damage according to the U.S. Fire Administration. The chapter responded to several fires in October that occurred when candles were left unattended.

“Thirty-eight percent of candle fires start in bedrooms, and 26 percent of candle related deaths and injuries happen when people have fallen asleep,” said Bill Curnow, Disaster Chair for the South Plains Regional Chapter. “To prevent this from happening to your family, always blow out candles before leaving the room or falling asleep. And, if you feel sleepy, extinguish lit candles immediately.”

“Many candle fires and their devastating results can be prevented, and that’s why it’s so critical to use caution with candles,” explained Curnow. “And since more than half of all candle fires start because a lit candle was too close to a combustible material, it’s absolutely essential to keep items like mattresses, bedding, curtains, books, and clothing at least 12 inches from candles. And always remember that lit candles are fire.”

To prepare your home for a potential candle fire, the Red Cross recommends installing smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area and on each level of your home. If you sleep with closed doors, install alarms inside each bedroom. Use the test button to test each smoke alarm once a month. All smoke alarm batteries need to be replaced once a year. Fire escape plans should include at least two escape routes from every room in the home. Also, chose a convenient meeting place at a safe distance from your home. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year with all family members.

Last year the South Plains Regional Chapter responded to nearly 100 home fires in the South Plains.

For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.redcross.org/homefires.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like Hurricane Ike, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.

Have you ever wondered exactly how you can become one of those 20,000 volunteers you saw helping during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike?

Here are step-by-step instructions for joining the club:

1. Watch this Introduction to Disaster Services Video

2. Call the South Plains Regional Chapter at 806-765-8534, or visit in person, and say "How do I sign up to be a volunteer?"

3. Your chapter will have you fill out some basic paperwork (such as a volunteer application). You’ll tell them what your interests are, and you’ll evaluate your commitment level together.

4. At this point you'll have 3 choices:

• Get trained by your chapter to become a local disaster response volunteer (you'll respond to local house fires, etc)
• Get trained by your chapter to become a part of National Disaster Relief. For this, you'll need to enter the Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) system. When a major disaster happens and you’re in the DSHR, you’ll be called to deploy.
• Do both! You can respond locally and nationally.