Give blood, give life

Christine Davis
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CARLSBAD VILLAGE ASSOCIATION

With love, health, and wellness in the air, it’s only fitting that we turn to matters of the heart in this article. The need for blood donations is constant and that is why the Carlsbad Village Association (CVA) is proud to be hosting its third annual blood drive on Saturday, Feb. 8. The Heart of Carlsbad Village Blood Drive has collected a total of ninety pints of life-saving blood during its first two events, positively impacting the lives of 270 people. CVA is looking forward to another successful event this month and wants to thank every participant for their support. We are pleased to have Carlsbad Chamber member Engel & Volkers Carlsbad be our gracious host this year. They are located at 2965 Roosevelt Street, where the bloodmobile will be conveniently located in their parking lot, visible from the street. Engel & Volkers Carlsbad has a delightful office, complete with a bigscreen TV, comfortable couches, and restrooms to make your wait as enjoyable as can be. We recommend that you schedule an appointment in advance, but you can also walk-in on Feb. 8 if you prefer.

In addition to recognizing the value of donating life-saving blood, it’s equally fitting to note that February is American Heart Month, where heart health awareness and heart disease prevention is brought to the forefront. That’s why CVA would like to remind people how healthy food choices, such as those found at the State Street Farmers’ Market, can play an important role in this endeavor. With 25 produce vendors and 35 food vendors to choose from, most offering healthy, natural, minimally-processed options, heart health can be made a bit easier. For example, the fish available at the Farmers’ Market is sustainably sourced and fresh from the dock to the market. The poultry and meat are also sustainably farmed and are antibiotic and hormone-free. Fruits and vegetables are picked the same morning they appear for sale at the market and some are even organic. Since fresh just plain tastes better, making healthy choices is more enjoyable. If a vegetarian or vegan menu is in your future, the Farmers’ Market has plenty of delicious options, some of which will truly surprise you. Eating healthier is easier at the State Street Farmers’ Market.

We would love to be part of your heart-healthy plans this year and beyond. Visit us on State Street between Grand Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Nov-Feb) and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Mar-Oct).