printable version'Big Game' blood drive kicks off
Palo Alto Mayor Judy Kleinberg visits with a donor at the blood center at the start of the “Big Game” drive.
For more than a century, the Big Game between the Cal Bears and Stanford Cardinal has inspired fan frenzy and a host of game-related traditions. And now the celebrations involve bloodshed—but in a good way.
"Rivals for Life" is a drive for blood donations throughout the Bay Area. From Nov. 13 through Dec. 1, donors to the American Red Cross and Stanford Blood Center may designate their favorite Big Game team and enter a contest to win autographed footballs and jerseys.
Over the past 10 years, this competition has evolved from a campus-only contest to one that encompasses the entire Bay Area. Both blood banks are hoping fans will be inspired to participate as the blood supply typically dips dangerously low during the coming winter holidays.
On Nov. 13, Palo Alto Mayor Judy Kleinberg and Berkeley Mayor Tom Bates read city proclamations challenging their residents to participate.
Kleinberg issued her call at the Stanford Blood Center at 3373 Hillview Ave. in Palo Alto. "Today is the kick-off for 'Rivals for Life,'" Kleinberg declared, urging "all Bay Area citizens to donate blood during the next three weeks and vote for their team."
The Stanford Blood Center has collection facilities in Mountain View and Palo Alto. To make an appointment or find mobile drive locations, call (888) 723-7831 or visit http:\\bloodcenter.stanford.edu.