William Lowe, who was recognized this week for having donated 27 gallons of blood over the past four decades.

While the Red Cross claims of three lives saved for every pint donated is hard to prove, there is no doubt that many, many lives are saved each year by the generosity of those who donate blood.

Mr. Lowe, clearly, has played a part in saving many of those lives, simply by consistently donating blood.

*****

To the Mount Airy Downtown Business Association, Froo Froo Pet Boutique, and Thelma Lou’s Puppy Parlor, for sponsoring the Dog Days of Summer event last week.

The downtown event helped raise much-needed money for local animal shelters and gave pet owners a chance to have a little fun time together. And those pet agencies, all run by volunteers, definitely represent a need in the community, and this fund raising opportunity was a way for all of them to get a little boost.