O's aid Hurricane Irene recovery efforts

The Orioles are teaming with the American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake & Potomac Blood Services Region on a series of blood drives this week to help build the supplies in local blood banks that were diminished by Hurricane Irene. To reward those willing to part with the gift of life, all donors will receive a complimentary ticket to the Orioles' game against the New York Yankees tomorrow at 1:05 p.m. Blood donors won't be the only folks in attendance at tomorrow's make-up contest to have helped out after Irene. The Orioles are working with the Maryland National Guard, Baltimore City Police Department and Baltimore City Fire Department to reward several hundred first responders with an afternoon of fun at Camden Yards. Orioles Red Cross Recovery blood drives will take place in several area locations, including a special Orioles blood drive at Camden Yards before Thursday's game. For a list of participating Orioles blood drive locations, call 1-800-REDCROSS or click here. Nearly 1,000 area participants attended previously scheduled Orioles blood drives this summer, with total donations helping as many as 2,700 area hospital patients in need of a transfusion. Eligible donors can register by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or visiting this site.